The course aims at giving the students increased insight into and knowledge of British literature and culture, and make them capable of expressing themselves in a clear and concise manner about literary and cultural questions, both in writing and orally.
The students will develop their critical approach to and independent evaluation of required readings. The course provides an introduction to textual analyses in the main literary genres prose, poetry, and drama. The ability to look for formal and thematic features is developed, and through analyses of a range of literary works one also gains an understanding of the most important periods and main features in British literature. The works and epochs are interpreted in relation to important features of each time periods societal and political circumstances.
ENG125 gives a basic introduction to British literature and culture. After completing the course the student will:
- Understand and use critical vocabulary related to the discipline, and demonstrate both orally and in writing an understanding of the basic conceptual and theoretical methods used when reading literary texts;
- Grasp the differences between the various forms of literary work, such as drama, poetry and prose, and various genres within these forms as covered in the course;
- Show an understanding of the relationship between literary texts and the larger social, political and historical frameworks within which they are constructed and with which they interact;
- Demonstrate all of the above through clearly expressed, accurately written and appropriately structured essays;
- Respond with individuality and imagination to a range of literary works
It is strongly advised that students, in addition to fulfilling the general admission requirements, also have good grades in specialized English courses from Upper Secondary School.
For students with a background other than the Norwegian school system, a level of competence in English corresponding to B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is recommended.
The course is open to all with admission to the University of Bergen.
For exchange students:
Qualified applicants have to pass a diagnostic test when arriving in Bergen (more information about the test will be sent to applicants by email).
Lectures and seminars: total 72 hours.
Students are expected to take part in and actively contribute to teaching. This expectation is also the basis for the preparation towards the exam.
Seminar attendance is obligatory. Students must attend at least two of the three first seminars, and at least 9 of the 12 seminars offered in total.
Obligatory coursework is valid for one semester following the semester of instruction.
Exams are offered each semester: one at the end of the spring semester and one in the middle of the autumn semester.
The course exam is a seven-day take-home exam. The exam is between 2500 and 2800 words. Students will be examined from the entire syllabus.