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. Here at Reading, we believe the study of English Literature provides not only a rewarding challenge and active pleasure, but also the foundation of a critical and cultural awareness that will remain with you for life. Our degree gives you an excellent knowledge of a comprehensive range of texts, from medieval times to contemporary popular culture and creative writing. This allows you to tailor your course to meet your individual enthusiasms. You will develop critical confidence and the ability to express your views orally and on paper, providing you with extremely valuable transferable skills. We are a very research-active department with a century-long history of innovation in English Studies, and we continue to extend our curriculum. At Reading, you will encounter some of the most exciting contemporary writing as well as the best literature from the past. You will have the benefit of our experience and research expertise, and become part of the conversation about the ways that English Studies is developing.