What is English Literature

English literature had its humble beginnings in the 7th century. It enjoys a long history that continues to evolve today. English literature is the incredible written works created by various Authors in the English language in the British Isles (including Ireland). This vast and varied field covers diverse forms of writing, such as poetry, plays, novels, and essays.

There are multiple reasons why English literature is of importance. A few reasons are essential to us:  

• English literature transports us to the lives and stories of people who lived in times gone by. It offers us a glimpse into history. 
• English literature aids in comprehending our lives and the world around us as it delves into timeless topics like love, sorrow, identity, and purpose.
• English literature even imparts valuable lessons in critical thinking and deepens our appreciation for language.

Novels: 

• Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, 
• Great Expectations by Charles Dickens,
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, or 

Plays: 

• Timeless theatrical masterpieces of William Shakespeare, like "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Othello." 
• A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare, or 
• The Crucible by Arthur Miller.

Poems: If you want to dive into poetry, get captivated by the epics such as,

• Paradise Lost by John Milton,
• The Prelude by William Wordsworth, or 
• Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats.

English Literature Courses

English literature is a widely sought academic discipline at universities worldwide, and it encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects, such as the history of the English language. Most English literature courses cover a wide range of topics, including:

• The history of the English language.
• Literary analysis.
• Creative writing.
• English literature in its historical and cultural context.

Top English Literature Courses:

Some popular english literature courses are-

Bachelor's Degree

• Introduction to English Literature
• Shakespeare
• Victorian Literature
• Modernist Literature
• American Literature
• Postcolonial Literature
• Creative Writing
• English Literature in Historical and Cultural Context
• English Language

Master's Degree

• Advanced Shakespeare Studies
• Victorian Studies
• Modernist Literature
• American Literature
• Postcolonial Literature
• Creative Writing
• English Literature in Historical and Cultural Context
• Literary Criticism
• Film Studies
• Cultural Studies
• Feminism and Literature
• Gender and Sexuality Studies
• Race and Ethnicity Studies
• Environmental Humanities
• Digital Humanities

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in English literature is also a revered degree for many.

Consider your specific interests and goals when choosing any of the courses above. For example, choose English literature education if you are interested in teaching. If you want to work in publishing, choose creative writing or literary editing.

Best Universities for English Literature:

QS World University Rankings 2023 has ranked these 10 Universities as the top 10 to pursue various finance courses.

Rank	University	Popular Courses
1	University of Oxford	MSt English Language and Literature
2	University of Cambridge	Doctor of Philosophy in English Literature
3	Harvard University	Doctor of Philosophy in English
4	University of California, Berkeley	Ph.D. in English
5	Yale University	Master of Philosophy in English Literature
6	Columbia University	Master of Arts in English and Comparative Literature
9	University of Edinburgh	Ph.D. in English & Scottish Literature

 English Literature Degree

An English literature degree can open up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates of English literature programs can go on to work in fields such as:

• Education
• Publishing
• Journalism
• Public relations
• Marketing
• Law
• Business
• Government