English: Literature and Theory

On completion of the course, students will be able to:

• discuss, in a nuanced manner, theories that have shaped the academic study of literature
• reflect upon and problematise the assumptions and ambitions of those theories
• describe a nuanced and careful critical reading of literary and theoretical texts in English, based on principles of literary and scientific analysis
• present coherent interpretations of literary works in English based on modern theories within the field
• reflect upon disciplinary debates on literary theory and the state of the field of literary studies
• communicate and argue for their own interpretations of literary, critical and theoretical texts in clear, correct and appropriate academic English both orally and in writing.

The course thematises influential modern theories within the field of literary studies in English and focuses on the impact on and uses of those theories in the study of literature in English. The course reflects on theories that have shaped literary studies and contextualises these within traditions of thought and socio-historical developments. It also considers questions of literary reading and meaning-making, as well as of how identity and society in English-speaking contexts have been formulated and understood. This includes understanding the potential that has been ascribed to literature with regard to these matters. The course analyses how modern theories can inform the interpretation of literary works. This includes a nuanced reflection on questions that literary works address and that the theories bring into sharp relief, as well as a complex approach to the knowledge that literary works can provide. The course problematises various aspects relating to the disciplinary field of literary theory and literary studies in English, and it helps students develop ttheir ability to conduct literary reading at an advanced level.

Continuous assessment of active seminar participation, as well as of oral presentations and written assignments.

The course consists of obligatory seminars. All teaching is conducted in English.

The Swedish grades U–VG.

Replaces EN3015 and EN3066.