This programme is intended to look at the representation of particular cultural issues across a range of texts. You will be asked to consider the representation of a particular topic or concept in a range of texts across time and to ask how these representations respond to each other and to the changing political and social circumstances for the text. You will also be asked to consider how a range of texts from a short historical period respond differently to a shared set of historical circumstances. Modules ask you to engage with the major contemporary theoretical and critical issues in modern literary studies.

For the MA, you take three 30-credit modules, two 15-credit research methods modules, plus a dissertation (equivalent to four 15-credit modules). The Postgraduate Diploma requires three 30-credit modules (plus the research methods modules) and the Postgraduate Certificate requires two 30-credit modules. Assessment of modules is normally by coursework, either two pieces of about 2-3,000 words, or one piece of 4-5,000 words.

The English Literature subject group organises a range of literary activities including visits from influential speakers. Recently, these have included talks by the film writer Tony Grounds and the poet Frieda Hughes.

Modules taught (2011-2012)

• Research Methods 1
• Research Methods II: Advanced Research Skills
• Dissertation
• Poetic Cultures
• Studies in the fin de siècle
• Writing in the American West
• Working –class writing
• Making of the Modern Child
• Mass Culture and Modernity
• Dandies, Decadents and New Women: Fin de siècle Literary Culture 1880 – 1900
• Reading the Vampire: Science, Sexuality and Alterity in Modern Culture
• Sex, Class and Violence: Studies in Literature and Film

For details about the planned suite of modules please contact the Literature MA Co-ordinator, Dr Anna Tripp, on 01707285654 or email a.f.tripp@herts.ac.uk