How much reading is there in an English literature degree?
An English literature degree involves a substantial amount of reading, including novels, poetry, drama, literary criticism, theory, and historical or cultural context. You may read independently before seminars, then discuss and analyse texts in class and use them in coursework, presentations, or exams. The volume varies by course and module.
Key points
- Reading may include both primary texts and scholarly articles or book chapters.
- Some assessments may involve close textual analysis, research, and accurate referencing.
- Planning weekly reading and allowing time for note-taking can help manage the workload.
Things to check
- The number and length of texts differ between universities, modules, and academic years, so check module descriptions or sample reading lists for a more precise indication.