Through the critical reading of a diversity of texts?ancient to contemporary?from the United States, Britain, and around the world, English majors further their understanding and appreciation of the literary craft and cultural significance of works of fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction, and they learn to incorporate their own interpretations and creativity into writing analytically about the works they have studied.?

With these skills students are prepared for in-depth examination of texts, exploration of the cultural and societal ramifications of literature, and investigation of the artistic features of various genres. Students may choose from a variety of topics?ranging from surveys of an entire culture's writings to focused readings of particular authors. ?

As seniors, under faculty guidance, English majors undertake an extensive research project on a literary topic. Students present summaries of their theses at an English Department reading which takes place toward the end of each semester.