圣路易斯华盛顿大学

Because it speaks to our imagination, literature allows us to approach the moral, ethical, social, and political dilemmas of the human situation in an integrated way. The beautiful and the well-argued, the felt and the reasoned, the actual and the possible, the message and the medium: Students of literature do not treat these spheres as distinct aspects of human existence. In our department, they bring them together. The result is that an English major is recognized as a strong foundation for careers in communications, business, law, social work, the fine arts and teaching.

Course work introduces students to important literary texts and to the development of the English language and the origins of Western literature and culture. Students develop reading and writing skills, rigorous critical thinking skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas persuasively, all while obtaining a broad liberal education.

English majors are required to take 10 courses as noted below: two required introductory courses; four required 300-level courses; and four 300-level electives. Before enrolling in any literature course, students must satisfactorily complete Principles of Writing (EComp 101).

Two Introductory Courses

Intended to be taken first, these courses are critical surveys of the literary history of the major literatures in the English language. Along with an understanding of the historical movements in literature, these courses also will help students develop a vocabulary of critical analysis and literary criticism:

• Literature in English: Early Texts and Contexts (ELit 261)
• Literature in English: Modern Texts and Contexts (ELit 262)

Four 300-Level Courses

• Introduction to Literary Theory (ELit 3552)

Plus three historical courses. Students must select at least one course from each of the following groups:

• Group 1: Medieval, Early Modern
• Group 2: the 18th Century, the 19th Century, the 20th Century and later

Four 300-Level Electives