This course presents a chronological sampling of literature from major periods and genres of English literature, which will be studied in their historical context. Literature from important periods will be studied in their historical context. It will begin with the17th Century to the 18th century English literature. It aims to equip students with knowledge and understanding of literary texts of various genres through examining them from the literary, social, historical, religious, and cultural perspectives. As the theoretical basis for the course, the students will be introduced to the extrinsic and intrinsic approaches to literature and application of western critical theories to the study of literary texts. In this course, students will read some major literary works selected from representative authors and examine them critically. Special attention will be given to the analyses of such literary elements as plot, structure, themes, symbols, setting, characters, writing techniques, and language of the selected texts. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: 1. identify, describe and classify the characteristics of 17th Century to the 18th Century English literature; 2. read the literary texts critically and appreciate them; 3. analyze the literary texts by means of the extrinsic and intrinsic approaches and application of western theories to enhance their understanding. To reach the afore-mentioned goals, students will be encouraged to engage in a variety of in- and out-of-class activities including reading the literary texts in question, writing lots and learning portfolio, engaging in class discussions, implementing self-study, etc.
