English

The English major introduces the student to the most significant writers and works of English and American literatures from the Anglo-Saxon period to the contemporary age and offers exposure as well to the master writers and masterworks of European and world literatures. Survey courses offer broader overviews, while upper-level courses allow for more focused study of different themes, literary periods, genres and authors, allowing students to pursue questions that interest them in more depth.

The study of literature is valuable not only as a way of learning more about human cultures and societies of the past, but also as a way of better understanding the present world and oneself through engaging with the ideas about the world and self held by some of the most interesting thinkers of human history.

The English major develops this broader literary, cultural and personal knowledge but also cultivates those capacities and skills so important to any future profession. The close analysis of texts develops the ability to respond critically to the written word and the ideas it conveys; the attention given to writing different kinds and lengths of papers (culminating in a piece of original research in the senior year) develops the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively in written form; the emphasis upon discussion and oral presentations helps develop the ability to speak cogently and with ease within and before groups.

The Drama track gives students a firm foundation in literature in general, and dramatic literature in particular, as well as the practical theatre skills (Linklater Voice Training, Movement, Dance, and Stage Combat) needed to perform on stage or work behind the scenes to bring plays to the stage. This combination of critical study and expertise in production is supported and enriched by the opportunity to work with local theatre companies as well as the Oxford Street Players of Lesley University.

The Creative Writing track allows students to focus their efforts on writing fiction, non-fiction, scriptwriting, and poetry. Students will develop the ability to respond critically to literary works from various historical periods as well as generate their own work in the literary forms as they choose and learn how to submit work for publication.

 In addition, they will have the opportunity to work at internships with local arts organizations, publishing companies, small presses, as well as Commonthought, Lesley's magazine of the arts.

Requirements for the English Major