British Literature

Prepare to dive into the worlds of heroes, monsters, fairies, and kings. This course presents a selection of works of British literature beginning with Beowulf, the earliest written work of British literature, and spanning through the twentieth century. You will explore classic stories written by some of the most widely read literary icons.

Beginning with Beowulf, the earliest written work of British Literature, students will read an illustrated translation of this epic poem in which the hero becomes a king by defeating a family of monsters. Then, they’ll meet some of the great heroines of literature in Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre. The legend of King Arthur will be explored in The Once and Future King by T.H. White, followed by a comic confusion of magical creatures cavorting in Shakespeare’s play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Students will read David Copperfield by Charles Dickens, and then conclude the course with a study of Victorian poems and English short stories. A wide range of written assignments offer the student experiences with interpretive essays, critical thinking, comparative essays, creative projects, genre and imitative writing, and much more.

For independent use and enrollment

Course Length: Full year

Grade Level: 11, 12

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