Are you fascinated by the narratives that surround us every day: those that millions respond to in blockbuster films and novels, those that people have been reading for centuries, and those that move people to action on behalf of the poor and oppressed? Do you relish exploring complex themes and ideas expressed in a masterfully written story? Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Literature will allow you to blend your passion for great stories with desire for meaningful work. You will gain interpretive, analytical, critical thinking, and reading skills as you delve into the world of literature, literary theory, rhetoric, and writing.
With interests as varied as the literature of medieval Europe and contemporary popular culture, PLNU literature professors are active scholars who have published and presented scholarship on topics such as Shakespeare, Milton, Taiwanese cinema, post-colonial theory, Emily Bronte, Mary Wollstonecraft, Bram Stoker, the intersection between feminist thought and Christian theology and practice, Flannery O’Connor, and the graphic novels Watchmen and Marvel’s Civil War. They mentor and work closely with literature majors as they prepare for teaching high school, going on to graduate school, entering ministry, or moving into a variety of business careers.
Concentrations:
- Literature: Provides you with a background in British and American literature as well as a foundation in works read in translation. Upper division coursework allows you to study longer works in-depth and provides introductions to linguistics and literary theory. Qualified students can complete an independent honors project as well.
- English Education: Prepares you to become a teacher of writing and the written word. It provides an introduction to journalism, creative writing, linguistics, and writing pedagogy to supplement your literary study. Upper division students also have the opportunity to tutor first-year writing students in PLNU's Writers’ Studio. Qualified students can complete an independent honors project as well.