Bachelor
2025/2026
Literature of Great Britain
Type:
Elective course (Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication)
Delivered by:
School of Foreign Languages
When:
2 year, 1, 2 module
Open to:
students of all HSE University campuses
Language:
English
Contact hours:
44
Course Syllabus
Abstract
Literature of Great Britain is a rigorous two-module course designed for the undergraduate students of the Foreign languages and intercultural communication programme who are interested in the development of British literature from its beginnings to the present in relation to its historical, linguistic, and cultural contexts. To fulfill the requirements of the course students need to have a good command of written and spoken English (required CEFR language proficiency level is B2). Through a wide range of selected readings in prose, poetry, and drama from the Old English period to the 21st century, this course introduces students to British literature and examines its development in the context of stylistic, cultural, historical, and linguistic changes and influences. It increases one’s understanding of literary conventions, enhances the enjoyment of various forms of literature, and encourages personal exploration and interpretation of the diversity of human experience, which British literature affords. Students will critically read and evaluate a number of assigned Key Texts (significant examples of the given period representing a diversity of British writers) as well as engage in independent reading outside of class. They will both develop skills of literary analysis and acquire knowledge of British cultural history. The course combines activities of a traditional (quizzes, discussions, etc.) and a nontraditional (debates, presentations, etc.) nature. Designed to emphasize independent thought, it also envisages various research projects conducted individually or in small groups on a wide range of topics related to its subject matter.