Free Online English Literature Courses
These free online courses in English literature cover everything you need to know about this expansive topic. English literature has a long and rich history, from tales as old as the epic of Beowulf, to the famous plays and dramas of Shakespeare. If you have an interest in English poetry, story-telling, prose, and more, these are the courses for you. These free online courses in English literature cover everything you need to know about this expansive topic. English literature has a long and rich history, from tales as old as the epic of Beowulf, to the famous plays and dramas of Shakespeare. If you have an interest in English poetry, story-telling, prose, and more, these are the courses for you. …Read Less
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Not sure where to begin? What is your main goal on Alison?
What is your main goal on Alison?
Which are the best free online English literature courses?
English literature was something that was only studied at high school and then for a select group of students privileged enough to attend university. Alison has opened the fascinating world of English literature to everyone. Our most popular courses are:
- Analysis of English literature
This course gives a broad overview of mainstays of the English literature canon - all the ‘biggies’ like the plays of William Shakespeare and Arthur Miller and the poems of Samuel Taylor Coleridge. It is important to have a basic understanding of why these works are so influential.
- Diploma is Modern Poetry Reading and Writing
How does poetry today differ from that of centuries ago? Do they have anything in common? This course explains modern British, American and Indian poetry and looks at the influence of feminist verse.
- Poetry in the Victorian Era
This course explores some of the most famous and evocative British poets of the 1800s like Tennyson, Gerald Manley Hopkins, Matthew Arnold and Robert and Elizabeth Browning.
Why study English literature?
Is literature still relevant today? Absolutely. Good literature explores human nature, takes us on adventures and expands our imaginations. Anyone who works in any form of art, media or communication will benefit from seeing how other creators express themselves. Literature opens up the whole world without you even leaving your home.