The lecture programme explores the diversity of this writing through lectures on topics such as 'Eighteenth Century Sexualities' and 'Satire'. Students may also select from a number of literary options ranging from 'Race, Gender and Cultural Politics' to 'American Dreams'. At Level Three students again choose between two literary periods offered. Renaissance Literature, through lectures and seminars, offers the opportunity to make a detailed study of the work of Shakespeare and his contemporaries in the light of contemporary critical approaches to the period. There is also a wide choice of modules ranging from Women s Writing to Postmodern Poetry or Crime and the Novel.
Students majoring in English write a dissertation, in consultation with their tutors.
There are some formal lectures, but much of the teaching and learning for English takes place in smaller groups which allow analysis and discussion of set texts. Tutors seek to promote student involvement and interaction, since the sharing of the enjoyment of literature is one of the keys to progress in the subject. Individual tutorials are important in the course and always follow the marking of written work for they give tutors opportunities to discuss student progress in detail. We also use films, organise visits to locations around the country, and invite writers into University College Northampton to talk about and read their work. Similarly there is a close connection between English and American Studies and many students find these an interesting combination.