Studies in Literature – ETS4U

Introduction to Literary Theory and Analysis 

Short Stories Translated to English 

Students will begin with a historical survey of English literature with strong emphasis on the 18th century—a period of increased literacy among the middle classes. The British Romantics and Victorians will be of paramount focus in this section. The unit will then examine Canadian literature and the attributes that both define and problematize it, leading into a discussion of multiculturalism, globalization and translated texts from the cannon of world literature. In this unit, students will simultaneously examine literary theory and analyze the components and mechanisms that uncover meaning within texts through different lenses. This will include focused study on Aestheticism, Deconstruction, Feminism, Marxism, Post-Colonialism, Post-Modernism, Queer Theory, Structuralism and Semiotics. The unit will conclude with a written cross-analysis of texts as well as a Unit Test.   

Archetypal Literary Theory 

Poetry from the English Cannon and Beyond 

Students will be introduced to Archetypal Literary Theory which examines recurring myths, symbols, and themes in literature. Students will be exposed to typically common tropes and investigate the relevance of these in everyday life. In addition, students will also participate in a workshop designed to introduce them to other types of poetry and the literary devices contained within them—generally beyond those covered in either ENG3U or ENG4U courses. The workshop will conclude with the focused written analysis of a single poet’s work (of the student’s choosing). This analysis will examine poetry types, poetic devices and archetypal analysis. The unit will conclude with a unit test to ensure that the key learnings of the unit have been consolidated. 

Archetypal Literary Theory 

Poetry from the English Cannon and Beyond 

Students will be introduced to Archetypal Literary Theory which examines recurring myths, symbols, and themes in literature. Students will be exposed to typically common tropes and investigate the relevance of these in everyday life. In addition, students will also participate in a workshops designed to introduce them to other types of poetry and the literary devices contained within them—generally beyond those covered in either ENG3U or ENG4U courses. The workshop will conclude with the focused written analysis of a single poet’s work (of the student’s choosing). This analysis will examine poetry types, poetic devices and archetypal analysis. The unit will conclude with a unit test to ensure that the key learnings of the unit have been consolidated. 

Postmodernist Approach to Literature 

The Graphic Novel 

Students will engage themselves in the rising popularity of the graphic novel. The unit will examine the conventions of the form and analyze its rising success as a literary medium as well as its perceived limitations. Students will be required to employ the different hats and lenses learned throughout the course and mine the text and corresponding film for alternate interpretations as well as penetrating the mediums for deeper understanding. The unit will conclude with an electronic media presentation of the book and film through a chosen literary theory, followed by a unit test before the final culminating assignment and exam.   

Final Assignment  

Final Exam 

6 hours

2 hours