Brian Dai

Introduction to English Literature
English literature is the studying and the analyzing of theories after you have read a book. Something extremely important when doing this is to understand the deep and complex meanings behind the author's words and why.
​
In English literature, there are four main categories: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. There are also a wide range of secondary genres under those categories, including horror, mystery, fantasy, romance, historical fiction, sci-fi (science fiction), folklore, fairytales, and so on.
​
Poetry
Student write and create their own poems and verses in English Literary Studies. Poems are used to transfer someone's feelings and emotions into text with rhythm to the author's creative desire. Usually, poetry prioritizes structure, rhythm, sound, figurative language, emotional and mental impact, and distinction from prose.
​
Poetry structure can also vary depending on the kind. The format ranges from hard-stuck strict rules to doing it however you like, even ignoring big grammar rules of English.
​
Some examples of strict-format poetry are sonnet, villanelle, haiku, and sestina:
-
Sonnet
-
Requirement of 14 lines​
-
Iambic pentameter
-
Specific rhyme schemes (e.g., Shakespearean; ABAB CDCD EFEF GG)
-
-
Villanelle
-
Requirement of 19 lines​
-
Stanzas: 5 tercets followed by 1 quatrains
-
Refrains: the 1st and 3rd lines of the initial tercet (refrain a and b) alternate as the last line of subsequent tercets
-
-
Haiku
-
Japanese poem of 3 lines​
-
Syllabus 5-7-5 pattern
-
Tradition: focused on nature and the seasons
-
Concise; straightforward, meaningful with impact, deliver message in a few words
-
-
Sestina
-
A complex poem requiring 39 lines​
-
Stanza 1 requires 6 lines each ending in an unique word
-
Stanzas 2-6: these 5 stanzas use the same 6 ending words in a specific, repeating order
-
Envoi; the concluding stanza: 3 lines, all 6 ending words appear, with 3 in the lines and 3 at the end of them
-
​
​
Fiction
Students will explore human experiences by using their vast imagination. This type of literature prioritizes the style of writing, development of characters, themes, and diving into human behaviours.
​
​
Nonfiction
Students will read and explore real experiences and information. Learning will usually require reading authentic texts and writing based on that information. This type of literature prioritizes detailed imagery, characters, and captivating dialogue based on true events. It could also be used to bring the reader into the story and make them feel as though they are experiencing it firsthand.
​
​
Drama
Students improve their expressions and words by acting. Students will definitely perform on stage, prioritizing dialogue, script, and directing. In the script, emotions, complex feelings, actions, and settings are expressed by using italics, boldness, and brackets. There is a variety different drama literature: comedy, tragedy, serious with unhappy endings, and more. Some famous drama works are from Shakespeare, such as Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Macbeth.
​
​
Conclusion
English Literary Studies and the literature you will encounter in the class is for those who love creative writing and reading. Sometimes, people who are interested in culture and history might also enjoy this class.
​
Through this course, you will be able to strengthen your communication and critical thinking skills, among many others.
