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Undergraduate English Literature Modules

English Literature is a wide-ranging and evolving subject - new approaches to traditional texts and new areas of study are continually revitalizing the discipline. At Lancaster you study a substantial number of authors and texts from different periods and areas of literary history.

At the heart of the subject lies a rigorous and imaginative engagement with literary texts. You develop close reading skills that increase your appreciation and understanding of the creative powers of language and literary forms. You also learn about the many contexts (for example, historical, geographical, social, political, stylistic, ethnic, sexual) in which literary texts are produced and read. This allows you to reflect on the active role played by literature both historically and in contemporary society, and to acquire an enhanced sensitivity to cultures and ideas different from your own.

The degree programme requires and fosters open-mindedness and intellectual curiosity, and stimulates the capacity to respond creatively and innovatively to new challenges. Our desire is that, beyond the period of your formal studies, you will retain an enthusiasm for literature and a sense of its past and present importance in society.