Studying English Literature: A Practical Guide

by Tory Young

Studying English Literature is a unique guide for undergraduates beginning to study the discipline of literature and those who are thinking of doing so. Unlike books that provide a survey of literary history or non-subject specific manuals that offer rigid guidelines on how to write essays, Studying English Literature invites students to engage with the subject's history and theory whilst at the same time offering information about reading, researching and writing about literature within the context of a university. The book is practical yet not patronizing: for example, whilst the discussion of plagiarism provides clear guidelines on how not to commit this offence, it also considers the difficulties students experience finding their own 'voice' when writing and provokes reflection on the value of originality and the concepts of adaptation, appropriation and intertextuality in literature. Above all, the book prizes the idea of argument rather than insisting upon formulaic essay plans, and gives many ways of finding something to say as you read and when you write, in chapters on Reading, Argument, Essays, Sentences and References.

Genres: Nonfiction, English Literature, Literature, Academia, Academic

181 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

Tory Young is an Associate Professor of English Literature at ARU, Cambridge. She teaches modernism and contemporary fiction, regularly interviews authors at Waterstones, and runs A Life Written, a life-writing for people aged 70+ with the National Centre for Writing.

Reviews

[Rosa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish I had read it sooner.

[Dermot Crossley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for BA English or MA Creative Writing.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superbly helpful and insightful ahead of starting an English Lit degree

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful

[Coley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the book really helpful for my course. Tory Young's writing approached topics I would usually have a really difficult time reading simply because I would find them boring (e.g. Plagiarism) but she manages to tackle the topics in a way that held my attention. It didn't feel too serious or heavy while reading it and it really helped me to prepare for the course ahead.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very clear and helpful

[SB · Rating 5 out of 5]

A concise introuction to the course with helpful examples and activities. Very useful, recommended to any students beginning an essay-based subject.