English: British Literature I

Selected texts from the beginnings to the late 18th century. Explores periodization, genre, key terms and concepts through close reading and critical analysis. Fulfills major requirements; open to non-majors.

Open to degree and PACE students

This 3-credit course serves as an introduction to the discipline of literary analysis, focusing on a selection of the canonical (and non-canonical) texts from the eighth to the eighteenth century. Students encounter representative authors, genres, and key concepts, theories, and terms from distinct sub-periods of early British literature. They are expected to use and strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills to better understand the readings and articulate their own interpretations. Students will have opportunities to utilize and improve their argumentative writing skills. They are expected to show a high degree of commitment to a) their academic work and b) the class as a whole through full class participation and regular attendance. Students will meet the course objectives through constant practice in reading comprehension -demonstrated through discussions, papers and exams.

In addition to attendance, students are expected to complete the following: a) 2 exams. Each exam has a 1500-word, typed paper to be handed in before exam. [60% total] Exams consist of three parts. The first part is an essay question given in advance. A five-page essay should be handed in with the exam. The second part consists of objective short answers. The third part consists of identification of passages. Exam essays are to be 1500 words, typed, double-spaced, page-numbered, properly secured and handed in on time. Please use 12 point, Times New Roman font. Your margins should be 1 inch on all sides of the page. No late papers will be accepted. Students are expected to produce quality work and to include relevant textual support [quotes] to strengthen their arguments. Exam essays require two outside critical sources and bibliography page. All of your work must be formatted and include citations in MLA Style. [See https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/02] b) participation in class discussions. [40%] Every absence lowers your participation grade.