Foundations of English Literature and Literary Theory

Do you want to move beyond simply reading stories and start uncovering the deeper, hidden meanings within classic and modern texts? Understanding the historical context of English literature and the frameworks of literary theory changes how you interact with the written word.\n\nThis text-based course guides you through the major eras of British literature and introduces you to the essential critical lenses used by modern scholars. By learning to apply these frameworks, you will transform from a passive reader into an active literary critic, capable of analyzing complex texts with confidence.\n\nWhat you'll learn:\n- Understand the historical progression of British literature from early periods through the modern era\n- Analyze texts using foundational literary theories, including structuralism, psychoanalysis, and reader-response criticism\n- Apply modern critical lenses such as ecocriticism, postcolonial theory, and intersectional analysis to written works\n- Identify key literary devices, themes, and narrative structures across different genres\n- Practice close reading techniques to extract deeper meaning from prose, poetry, and drama\n- Formulate clear, well-supported literary arguments based on textual evidence\n\nYou will begin by learning fundamental literary terms and historical contexts before moving step-by-step through major literary movements. Each section pairs historical analysis with practical written exercises to help you apply critical theories directly to selected texts.\n\nThis course is designed entirely for beginners, students, and avid readers who want to build a strong foundation in literary analysis. No prior background in English literature or academic theory is required.\n\nStart your journey into the world of critical analysis and discover new dimensions in everything you read.