BA in English Literature: Subjects, Syllabus, Eligibility, Course Details, and Career Scope

BA in English Literature is a rigorous three-year UG programme with six semesters. The course offers a variety of topics, ranging from poetry and communicative language to the history and theories of English Literature. Students learn to interpret language from diverse perspectives. They also develop a knack for understanding the influence of various factors on literature. The course fosters strong analytical and writing skills in candidates. The BA in English Literature course offers a vast reservoir of insights to students. The course opens the gateway to rewarding career avenues.

This blog discusses the various aspects of the BA in English Literature Course. It covers crucial information, including the Bachelor of Arts in English Literature syllabus, subjects in BA English literature, recommended books for BA English Literature, the BA English Literature scope, and other essential BA English Literature course details.

BA English Literature Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for applying to the BA English Literature programme require candidates to have a minimum aggregate score of 50% or above from a recognised board. Students must also check the BA English Literature syllabus, BA in English Literature subjects and BA in English Literature Books mentioned hereafter.

BA English Literature Syllabus

The semester-wise BA English Literature syllabus details include the following.

Semester I

1. Communicative English
2. Language Paper I
3. History of English Literature: The Pre-Chaucerian to the Augustan
4. English Poetry: The Elizabethan to the Augustan
5. English Prose: The Elizabethan to the Victorian
6. Introduction to Computing
7. Cultural Education I

Semester II

1. Professional Communication
2. Language Paper II
3. History of English Literature
4. English Poetry
5. English Prose: The Late-Victorian to the Modern
6. Indian Writing in English: Fiction
7. Cultural Education II

Semester III

1. Communicative English (Advanced)
2. History of English Literature: Victorian to the Present
3. American Literature
4. Biography
5. English Fiction: Victorian
6. Life Skills I
7. Amrita Value Programme I
8. Amrita Value Programme II

Semester IV

1. History of English Language and Phonetics
2. Indian Writing in English: Poetry
3. Shakespeare: Comedies
4. Environmental Studies
5. Elective A
6. Open Elective A
7. Life Skills II

Semester V

1. Elements of Literary Criticism
2. English Poetry: Modern
3. English Drama: Elizabethan to Victorian
4. Spiritual Literature
5. Elective B
6. Open Elective B/Live-in-Lab
7. Life Skills III

Semester VI

1. Literary Criticism: Introduction
2. European Fiction
3. English Fiction: Modern
4. English Drama: Modern
5. Shakespeare: Tragedies
6. Autobiography

BA English Literature Subjects

Bachelor of Arts in English Literature subjects have both core and elective subjects. Students can choose elective subjects in their 5th semester. Various exciting literature topics are part of the exciting BA in English Literature subjects. These subjects can vary slightly depending on the university or college. However, the main subjects include: 

1. Victorian Literature
2. American Literature
3. Readings in Gender and Sexuality
4. English Literature History
5. African-American Literature
6. Women’s Writings
7. Creative Writing
8. English Poetry
9. Contemporary Fiction
10. European Literature
11. Canadian Literature
12. Renaissance Texts
13. Research & Criticism
14. Literature, Language and Media

BA in English Literature Books

Here are the main BA in English Literature Books:

1. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
2. The Iliad by Homer
3. Poetics by Aristotle
4. Swami and Friends by R.K. Narayan
5. Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe
6. Macbeth by William Shakespeare
7. The Wife of Bath’s Prologue by Geoffrey Chaucer
8. Predestination and Free Will’ by John Calvin
9. Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll
10. The Rover by Aphra Behn
11. The Republic by Plato
12. The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli

BA English Literature Scope

After completing BA in English Literature, students can explore dynamic career prospects in teaching, research, digital marketing, media, advertising, translation, film production, and journalism. They can opt for reputable careers like teachers, content writers, copywriters, journalists, and editors.

Students who wish to enhance their qualifications can choose to pursue Master's degrees. An MA in English Literature or a PhD degree are some good choices in this regard.

Difference Between BA English and BA English Literature

Many times, individuals get confused between BA English and BA English Literature. The fact is that there is a significant difference between BA English and BA English Literature. The BA in English Literature programme emphasises the study of the English language and literature while closely discussing the history and origin of the language. On the contrary, the BA in English programme focuses mainly on the functionality of the English language. BA in English Literature syllabus includes plays, poetry, novels, and various English Literature theories. However, BA English majorly involves phonetics, grammar and reasoning.

Conclusion

A BA in English Literature offers a wealth of knowledge and broad skill development. Students can explore the diverse British, Indian, and American Literature. The BA in English Literature course emphasises critical thinking while positively impacting individual personal growth. Graduates can explore potential career paths, including teaching, content writing, journalism, and editing.

FAQs

Q1: How many subjects are there in BA English literature?

A1: The subjects may vary depending on the university or college. However, the key subjects include:

1. American Literature
2. Victorian Literature
3. African-American Literature
4. History of English Literature
5. Shakespeare Comedies
6. Contemporary Fiction
7. Modern Era

Q2: What is the difference between BA English and BA English literature?

A2: BA in English emphasises the study of the English language while including aspects like language structure, the evolution of language and the language’s functionality. On the contrary, the BA in English Literature allows students to analyse and interpret various literary works, including plays, poetry, prose, etc.

Q3: Is BA English Literature tough?

A3: BA English Literature is not challenging for candidates who have a deep interest in extensive reading and writing. Candidates must study various BA English Literature subjects with absolute passion.

Q4: What is the scope of BA English?

A4: The vast BA English Literature scope offers rewarding career opportunities and higher study options. Candidates can opt to build a career in teaching, journalism, etc. They can also pursue an MA or MBA degree to enhance their qualification.