ENG 3020 - Literary and Cultural Theory

Goals: To introduce students to theoretical approaches to texts and to the practical applications of literary theory. Students should take this gateway course in the sophomore year in conjunction with declaring a major/minor. This course builds on the learning experiences introduced in ENG 1110, the surveys, and ENG 3010: Textual Studies and Criticism and prepares students for success in 3000-level writing and literature courses and the senior seminar. Required for many 3000-level courses.

Content: Reading and discussing representative 20th-century critical approaches to the study and understanding of written texts and producing analytical essays that apply critical methods to selected texts.

Taught: Annually.

Prerequisites: One survey course (ENG 1210, 1220, 1230, 1240, 1250, or 1270) completed. While in rare cases ENG 3020 may be taken concurrently with ENG 3010, it is strongly encouraged for student success that ENG 3010 be completed first. Not recommended for first-year students. Nonmajors and nonminors need the permission of the instructor.

Credits: 4 credits