ENG 398 Topics in Literary Theory and Research

Gateway undergraduate course that prepares students for upper-level study in the English major with a focus on scholarly writing. Through the study of American, British, or World literature of a specified period, genre, topic, or authorship, the course provides an introduction to literary theory and various literary critical approaches and practice in fundamentals of literary writing and research while continuing instruction in literary analysis, close reading, and argumentation. Requirements will include a close reading or critical application essay, an annotated bibliography, and a research-based critical essay, using a process-based approach that includes opportunities for brainstorming, topic development, revision, peer response, editing, and proofreading. At least 65% of assessment for this course pertains to student writing. Prerequisite for 400 level ENG courses.