With a focus on non-native English speakers, the course aims to develop critical reading, discussion, and analysis skills through reading the chosen works of English authors. The seminar is focused on creating an intellectually stimulating environment that encourages active participation and meaningful dialogue. Engaging in discussions with peers will not only enhance students’ fluency in English but also provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, critical thinking, and the exploration of diverse perspectives.
The course aims to equip non-native English-speaking students with essential skills in reading, discussing, and analyzing English literature. By engaging in this seminar, students will enhance their abilities in these areas to use them in their academic pursuits in the fields of literature and humanities.
The chosen texts will include British authors from the first half of the 20th century such as, for example, Virginia Wolf, Katherine Mansfield, T. S. Eliot, J. R. R. Tolkien, and Aldous Huxley.
Virginia Wolf, "The Mark on the Wall"
Katherine Mansfield, "The Fly"
T. S. Eliot, chosen poetry
J. R. R. Tolkien, "Leaf by Niggle"
Aldous Huxley, Brave New World
Terry Eagleton, How to Read Literature (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2014).
Jonathan Bate, English Literature: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2010).
Peter Ackroyd, Albion: The Origins of the English Imagination (New York, Anchor, 2004).
Through guided instruction, students will learn how to navigate complex texts, identify key themes, and analyze the various literary devices employed by authors. Thanks to close reading exercises and participating in guided discussions, students will refine their ability to comprehend and interpret English literature with depth and nuance.
Introduction
Virginia Wolf, "The Mark on the Wall"
Katherine Mansfield, "The Fly"
T. S. Eliot, chosen poetry
J. R. R. Tolkien, "Leaf by Niggle"
Aldous Huxley, Brave New World
Entry requirements: advanced knowledge of English, enabling fluent reading of modern texts and discussion.
The aim of the seminar is to help students read literature in English and discuss it in English.
In order to obtain the credit, regular attendance, oral presentation (10 minutes), participation in discussions and willingness to start reading or willingness to read in English are necessary.
