Major: British Literature
If you study this subject, you'll get to read some of the greatest literature ever written. You'll also learn about the origins of the English language, the history of Europe, and the development of modern writing.
In your studies, you might look at how Milton's Paradise Lost, written in the seventeenth century, is a bridge between the ancient epic and the modern novel. Or you could examine how Victorian literature, written during the Industrial Revolution in the late nineteenth century, reflects feelings of powerlessness and alienation, as does much of today's literature.
Students focusing on British literature examine the literatures and literary history of English-speaking people of the British Isles, from the birth of the English language to the present.
Did You Know?
- In most schools, you won’t be able to major in British lit, but you will be able to concentrate on it if you major in English.
Are You Ready To...?
- Do a lot of reading -- of literary criticism and history as well as literature
- Read texts written in Old and Middle English, the predecessors of the language we speak today
- Participate in class discussions
- Write several papers for each course
It Helps to Be...
A person who loves to read different types of texts and who enjoys analyzing this material. You should also have strong writing and speaking skills. Someone who is creative, good with time management, and comfortable working independently should be a good fit.
College Checklist
- Will you be able to focus on a specific area of interest within British literature, for example, writing from a certain time period (such as the Renaissance) or a certain genre (such as drama)?
- Does the department specialize in a particular aspect of British literature?
- How many courses does the department offer in the subject each year? Are they on topics that interest you?
- Besides lectures, are smaller seminar (discussion-oriented) courses offered?
- Does the campus library have the print and electronic collections you’ll need?
- Will you get a chance to learn and gain skills outside the classroom by interning, tutoring your peers, or studying abroad?
“Consider the fact that you have to write a lot of papers and do a lot of reading because it's a lot of work, but as Joseph Campbell said, ‘Follow your bliss.’ ”
Jordan, junior, English, Mills College
Course Spotlight
Upperclassmen who study British literature often get to take seminar courses, which are limited to a small number of students. These classes will allow you to study a subject of interest in depth. For example, if you liked your class on Shakespeare's plays, you may be able to take a seminar that examines a specific theme within them, such as revenge.
You'll probably be responsible for a lot of reading, numerous essays, and a long research paper. Seminar courses are exciting because they reflect the current research interests of the instructor.
Explore this major in more depth on MyRoad™