3 credits
Fall 2026 Lecture Upper DivisionVariable Title
This course is an intensive survey of the major genres (epic, drama, lyric, prose) and writers of the English Renaissance (1400-1700) within the context of England's history and the European Renaissance primarily. Key themes include the rediscovery of classical antiquity, the emergence of individualism, the influence of religion and science, and the changing conceptions of gender and power. Critical readings and research activities will demonstrate the significant role of English Literature in the development of world literature and globalization.
Learning Outcomes1Identify various theoretical approaches to literature and then apply them to Renaissance literary texts.
2Define important literary terms, genres, and conventions within their cultural, and aesthetic contexts in relation to the specific era of the Renaissance, 1300-
33. Produce clear oral communication and written text, especially well-reasoned arguments about literary texts and their interaction with the Renaissance era and the era's reception, based on appropriately selected, evaluated, and presented textual evidence.
4Practice, employ, and begin developing primary research activities associated with literary studies, especially those most applicable to the Renaissance era.
Restrictions
made by Purdue students.