How English Literature improved my life

Katie Humphries, a third year English Literature student, told us about her time on the course and how it changed aspects of her life for good.

Looking back on your three years, what aspects of the English Literature course have interested you the most?

Learning about the historical and social contexts of the texts that we look at has always been fascinating to me; I always enjoy finding out about the life, beliefs, opinions and works of an author/playwright/poet etc. I like how it allows you to obtain a greater understanding of their works, learning how they have been informed by their own experiences in their lives as well as the people around them, and of course the social, political and historical climate. It has also been fulfilling covering such a range of literature periods. Whether that be Romanticism, learning about the Enlightenment Era, the art from that generation and famous writers and works of the late 18^th and early 19^th century. Or looking at plays from the early 1900s to the late 1900s, seeing the shift in themes and topics all relevant to the effects of the First and Second World Wars. Also seeing a similar shift in Modernism and Postmodernism.

Can you describe a module or project that had a meaningful impact on your understanding of literature?

The most significant module would be Key Critical Concepts. I feel like this module allowed us to cover a wide range of literary techniques and really understand literary criticism, helping us learn how to read and use it in assignments. I was greatly interested in the study of Narrative Form through James Joyce’s ‘The Dead’ in Dubliners, when we looked at the use of a linear plot and the use of flashbacks to understand the character in more depth. We also looked at the representation of race through Bertha’s character in Brontë’s Jane Eyre. These techniques, along with many others, allowed me to understand further the importance of these concepts in literature, and how I can use this understanding when looking at other texts. I have since used the knowledge and my own understanding from this module in later assignments, as narrative form for example, is relative to all texts long or short.

How has studying English Literature here influenced the way you think or approach the world outside of university?

I believe it has improved my knowledge on a lot of contemporary issues. The Moral Philosophy module has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of very relevant issues such as abortion, euthanasia, animal rights and so on. It has also allowed me to approach the world with more perception of the importance and influence that literature has. I will always be fascinated by the power of literature, how it affects societal attitudes, morality, values, taboos, and how timeless it is, as it continues through generations. I enjoy the understanding and knowledge I have obtained, like going to an art gallery and recognising names and what era they were from, the beliefs of that time, or even being aware of certain authors or books that are mentioned in films, usually used to convey a message, or have a pivotal effect on a character, and knowing already why the book may have been used, for example, shows just how important the subject is.

What skills or insights have you gained from this course that you think will be useful in your future career or life in general?

The improvement on my vocabulary has been significant. I find myself rarely struggling for synonyms, as well as using theoretical vocabulary relating to literature with ease in an essay or everyday life. I have learnt so many new terms, like pastoral, chiastic, anagnorisis, Bildungsroman and plenty more. I have also found my ability to read has improved immensely. The way I read is very different, it is more efficient and involves a lot more understanding. I also find my ability to research and understand literary criticism has been refined which I feel will be beneficial to any career path, as understanding difficult texts, reviews, and essays allow me to have a wider comprehension for things I may come across in the future. It has also improved my literary clarity and fluency, which I will be able to use in all aspects of life, whether that be in person through emails, or any future pieces of writing I may have to complete. 

What advice would you give to someone considering studying English Literature?

It seems obvious, but reading, doing your primary and secondary reading is so beneficial to whatever you are covering; having a deeper understanding of a book or play etc. because you read around the topic, author or context will make it easier to write and talk about the specific works you are exploring. Using the library is also important; spending money on new books seems wasteful when free ones are sat in a library. If you are buying books, second hand is always the way to go – cheaper and better for the environment. Another tip would be utilising your lecturer’s office hours and sending in drafts. It really helps boost grades and your engagement with courses, making you feel more passionate about the subject. Overall, if you enjoy reading, understanding concepts, learning about the history of literature and its periods, studying English Literature would be perfect and well suited for you!