Literature in Context (ENG346)

This course emphasizes that understanding literary texts is enriched by considering their historical, cultural, and philosophical contexts. Selected texts aim to illuminate the specific periods in which they were created and received.


Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts

Course code

ENG346

Version

1

Credits (ECTS)

10

Semester tution start

Spring

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Spring

Language of instruction

English

Offered by
Time table

View course schedule

Content

Literature in Context is driven by the idea that our understanding of literary texts can be greatly enhanced by an appreciation of the context within which these texts were produced and read. Texts will be chosen with the express intention of exploring the historical, bibliographical, cultural, and philosophical period within which they are situated.

Learning outcome

Students will achieve the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence.

Knowledge

The candidate

has advanced knowledge within the study of literature and specialized insight into placing the reading of literary texts into context

  • has thorough knowledge of the scholarly or artistic theories and methods in the study of literature
  • can apply knowledge to new areas within the study of literature
  • can analyze academic problems on the basis of the history, traditions, distinctive character and place in society of the study of literature

Skills

The candidate

  • can analyze and deal critically with various texts and use them to structure and formulate scholarly arguments
  • can analyze existing literary theories, methods and interpretations in the study of literature and work independently on practical and theoretical problems
  • can use relevant methods for literary research and scholarly work in an independent manner
  • can develop the skills to allow them to carry out an independent piece of research under supervision, such as an MA thesis, in accordance with applicable norms for research ethics

General competence

The candidate

  • can analyze relevant academic, professional and research ethical problems within the field of the study of literature
  • can apply his/her knowledge and skills in new areas in order to carry out advanced assignments and projects, such as a literature thesis or doctoral research
  • can communicate extensive independent work and master language and terminology related to the study of literature
  • can communicate about academic issues, analyses and conclusions in the field, both with specialists and the general public
  • can contribute to new thinking and innovation processes using transferible skills from the study of literature

Required prerequisite knowledge

The general requirements for admission to the Master’s program

Recommended prerequisites

The course presupposes a solid command of written and spoken English.

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Home exam 1/1 7 Days Letter grades

7 day home exam essay, 3000 words +/- 10%

Coursework requirements

Attendance, Mandatory assignments

75% attendance

2 mandatory assignments: These assignments are short pieces of writing of 500 words.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Peter Paul Ferry

Study Adviser:

Signe Ekenberg

Method of work

Lectures

Open for

English and Literacy Studies - Master's Degree Programme

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital course evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature

Search for literature in Leganto