Course Description

An introduction to the literature and culture of the British Victorian period, from the first Reform Bill (1832) to the death of Queen Victoria (1901).

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Athena Title

Victorian Studies

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Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in ENGL 3530

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Non-Traditional Format

This course is writing intensive, which means that the course will include substantial and ongoing writing assignments that a) relate clearly to course learning; b) teach the communication values of a discipline—for example, its practices of argument, evidence, credibility, and format; and c) prepare students for further writing in their academic work, in graduate school, and in professional life. The written assignments will result in a significant and diverse body of written work (the equivalent of 6000 words or 25 pages) and the instructor (and/or the teaching assistant assigned to the course) will be closely involved in student writing, providing opportunities for feedback, and substantive revision.

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Prerequisite

ENGL 1102 or ENGL 1102E or ENGL 1103 or ENGL 1050H or ENGL 1060H

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Semester Course Offered

Offered every year.

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Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

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Student learning Outcomes

• Students will gain a broad, balanced introduction to the literature and culture of the Victorian period.
• Students will contextualize and analyze examples from multiple literary genres, likely including prose fiction, poetry, essays, and drama. They will practice analyzing literary form and thinking critically about literature and Victorian culture.
• Students will practice engaging in collaborative discussion with their peers, in small groups and/or full-class discussion. They will improve their ability to express their ideas cogently and effectively.
• Students will improve their abilities to argue persuasively, use textual evidence, and write vigorous prose that adheres to conventional standards of grammar and usage.

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Topical Outline

• This course introduces students to Victorian literature as well as to Victorian life. Instructors may structure the course as they see fit, but in all cases Victorian literature will provide the basis for discussions about, and papers written on, the historical period. Topics covered may be selected from a wide range of fields. A sample syllabus might include sections on the following topics:
• British topography and geography, regional differences
• reform legislation
• The industrial revolution
• The development of the railways, urbanization
• The changing role of women
• the debates over religion and science, Darwinism
• aestheticism
• empire-building
• the Victorian legacy in the 20th century

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Institutional Competencies Learning Outcomes

Analytical Thinking

The ability to reason, interpret, analyze, and solve problems from a wide array of authentic contexts.

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