Studying English Literature

Description:
This is a new textbook designed to help new undergraduates adopt a degree-level approach to the study of English literature in their first or foundation year. 'Studying English Literature' offers a link between pre-degree study and undergraduate study by introducing students to: the history of English literature from the Renaissance to the present; the key literary genres (poetry, prose, and drama); a range of techniques, tools and terms useful in the analysis of literature; and, critical and theoretical approaches to literature. It is designed to improve close critical reading skills and evidence-based discussion; encourage reflection on texts' themes, issues and historical contexts; and demonstrate how criticism and literary theories enable richer and more nuanced interpretations. This one-stop resource for beginning students combines a historical survey of English literature with a practical introduction to the main forms of literary writing. Case studies of key texts offer practical demonstrations of the tools and approaches discussed. Guided further reading and a glossary of terms used provide further support for the student. Introducing a wide range of literary writing, this is an indispensable guide for any student beginning their study of English Literature, providing the tools, techniques, approaches and terminology needed to succeed at university.

Table of Contents:
Introduction, Ashley Chantler and David Higgins; 1. Studying Literature at Degree Level:; 2. How to Use Studying English Literature; PART 1. STUDYING SHAKESPEARE; 1. Shakespeare and the Renaissance, Emma Rees; 2. The Comedies, Emma Rees; 3. The Tragedies, Emma Rees; PART 2. STUDYING SEVENTEENTH- AND EIGHTEENTH-CENTURY LITERATURE; 1. Literature 1600-1660, Jessica L. Malay; 2. Literature 1660-1714, Derek Alsop; 3. Literature 1714-1789, Derek Alsop; PART 3. STUDYING ROMANTIC AND VICTORIAN LITERATURE (1789-1901); 1. The Romantics, David Higgins; 2. The Victorians, Deborah Wynne; PART 4. STUDYING TWENTIETH-CENTURY AND CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE; 1. Literature 1900-1945, Ashley Chantler; 2. Literature 1945-1990, William Stephenson; 3. Literature 1990 - The Present, William Stephenson Glossary of Literary Terms; Index.

Author Biography:
Ashley Chantler is Senior Lecturer in English at the University of Chester, UK. David Higgins is Lecturer in English Literature at the University of Leeds, UK.