The Eighteenth-Century Novel

Synopsis

ELT378 examines the distinctive features of the novel as it emerged in the eighteenth century. The course considers key novels from the period in order to evaluate their historical, cultural, stylistic, and analytical merits.

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every July
E-Learning: BLENDED - Learning is done MAINLY online using interactive study materials in Canvas. Students receive guidance and support from online instructors via discussion forums and emails. This is supplemented with SOME face-to-face sessions. If the course has an exam component, this will be administered on-campus.

Topics

Study Unit 1
Chapter 1: An Age Without a Hero
Chapter 2: New Age? The Context of the Early Novel
Study Unit 2
Chapter 3: Moll Flanders (1722)
Continue with Moll Flanders (1722)
Study Unit 2
Chapter 4: Evelina (1778)
Study Unit 2
Chapter 5: Pride and Prejudice (1813)
Chapter 6: Persuasion (1817)
Study Unit 3
Chapter 7: Jane Austen and the Contemporary Austen Industry
Complete Study Unit 3
Exam preparation

Learning Outcome

Show the role of the eighteenth-century cultural and social context in the development of the novel.
Demonstrate the use of close reading skills to examine literary style and thematic issues in eighteenth-century literature.
Analyse the major critical approaches to eighteenth-century literature.
Formulate a critical overview of the connections between these eighteenth-century works and their significance today.
Compare and contrast the literary techniques and treatment of key issues in the eighteenth-century novels.
Compose structured academic essays that combine scholarly research, critical evaluation, and proper citation.

Part-time Programmes / CET Courses

Singapore University of Social Sciences

The Eighteenth-Century Novel