The study of literature can assist students to think critically and creatively. It can train students in the ability to shape their opinions with a real sense of human consequences. It can offer an understanding of the nature and power of fictions, and the way they may shape attitudes to race, to gender, and to social and economic relationships. It enhances the ability to present views clearly and persuasively, and to analyse the arguments of others.
Few literatures are as rich and diverse as literature in the English language.
We also offer a wide range of topics in other literatures of the English language such as Scottish, American, Indian, Caribbean, African and Canadian. We have a particular emphasis on contemporary Australian literature, including South Australian literature. The English Department assumes that most creative writing students will also enrol in a major in English, but such a combination is not compulsory. Students are introduced to a wide range of texts from Australia and overseas, and gain practical expertise in reading, writing and editing short stories. It is taught by professional writers and assessed by professional editors.