Introduction to Literary Studies (ENG113)

This is an introductory course to the study of literature focusing on fundamental questions like "what is literature?", "how do we read a literary text?" and "what is the function of literature in the world?" This is an essential course for anyone who loves fiction, plays, and poetry and wants a clear and direct approach to understanding them.

The course will provide the necessary foundation for further exploration in literature, focusing specifically on methods (advanced reading and writing methods) while exploring major topics and themes such as race, class, gender, identity, culture, critical thinking, ethics, creativity, environmental awareness, and democracy. The course will include multiple genres such as poetry, plays, fiction, and creative non-fiction.

This course will be organized thematically around major topics in the study of literature. Readings will be selected from both contemporary and historical periods with an emphasis on developing the fundamental skills of reading, writing, and thinking about literature. Students will respond critically to the themes and texts through both discussion and writing. This course will be appropriate for students interested in both the study and teaching of literature. Specific themes, topics, and readings will be designed by the course instructor.

Knowledge

By the end of the course, students are expected to possess knowledge of

• the themes and topics covered in the course
• basic comprehension of the readings covered in the course
• different genres of literature and their relationship to reading, writing, and thinking
• methods and practices for developing creative and critical thinking through the study of literature
• key literary terminology pertaining to this course

Skills

By the end of the course, students should be able to

• write about the connection between themes and literary texts
• discuss themes and topics in literature with specific reference to the text
• make preliminary arguments regarding literary themes and topics
• use literary terminology in discussions and arguments
• use literature as a tool for critical thinking
• develop creative thinking through the study of literature
• be prepared for more advanced study literary topics

General Competence

By the end of the course, students will be able to

• read and comprehend literary texts
• read and comprehend advanced argument
• write coherently about themes and topics in literature
• write basic arguments concerning literature and culture
• express themselves in correct, varied and precise English

1 obligatory assignment

• • Written
  • Approx. 500-1500 words as set by instructor

In order to take the exam, students must have passed the assignment.

If the assignment is assessed as not approved on the first attempt, students are given one opportunity to submit a revised assignment.

References and AI

All submitted assignments must be the result of the student’s own independent work. Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the rules for source referencing.

Information on source referencing is available on the University Library’s website: https://www.uis.no/en/library/citations

Guidance on the use of AI tools in relation to exams can be found on the University of Stavanger’s exam pages: https://www.uis.no/en/student-pages/use-of-artificial-intelligence-ai-in-assignment-writing-and-exams