English Literature

‘Literature’, says the poet Ezra Pound, ‘is news that stays news’.

Our rich and vital literary inheritance informs the way we think about the world. It expresses how we feel about ourselves and others and stimulates both intellect and imagination.

At Reading, we believe that the study of English literature provides not only a rewarding challenge and an active pleasure, but also the foundation of a critical and cultural awareness that will remain with you for life.

We are a very research-active department with a century-long history of innovation in English studies, and we continue to extend our curriculum to include contemporary American and Caribbean literature as well as new writing from Britain and Ireland. You will become part of a conversation about the way our subject is developing. You will also develop your own writing skills; whether your ambition is to write creatively or in a professional context, you will graduate with the confidence and skill to say exactly what you mean.

In your second year, you may be able to spend a term studying abroad at one of our partner institutions in Germany, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, the Czech Republic, the USA, Canada or Australia. This is a great opportunity to continue your study of English literature while immersing yourself in a different culture and enhancing your language skills.