Explore Literature
Literature examines language, narrative and interpretation across cultures. This subject guide introduces the questions, methods and practical work that help learners understand the field before choosing a formal course of study.
A strong starting point is to connect critical theory with world literature. The first develops a foundation for reasoning; the second provides a setting in which to test ideas. Keep a learning journal that records assumptions, sources and questions that remain unresolved.
Four areas to investigate
Critical theory
Connect critical theory to the study of language, narrative and interpretation across cultures. Compare an introductory explanation with a worked example, then describe where the approach is useful and where it may fail.
World literature
Connect world literature to the study of language, narrative and interpretation across cultures. Compare an introductory explanation with a worked example, then describe where the approach is useful and where it may fail.
Close reading
Connect close reading to the study of language, narrative and interpretation across cultures. Compare an introductory explanation with a worked example, then describe where the approach is useful and where it may fail.
Creative criticism
Connect creative criticism to the study of language, narrative and interpretation across cultures. Compare an introductory explanation with a worked example, then describe where the approach is useful and where it may fail.
Learn through inquiry
Compare narrative perspective in two works and explain how context changes interpretation.
Begin with a question narrow enough to investigate. Decide what evidence would support an answer, document the method and explain what further work would be needed.