

BA-ENGLISH-LITERATURE in General at Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science


Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science Coimbatore?
This BA English Literature program at Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya College of Arts and Science focuses on a comprehensive study of literary history, critical theories, and diverse global writings. It emphasizes analytical thinking, linguistic proficiency, and cultural understanding, preparing students for various communication-centric roles in India''''s booming content and media industry. The curriculum covers a wide spectrum from classical to contemporary literature.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates passionate about language, literature, and critical inquiry, seeking entry into academic, media, or content development fields. It also suits individuals aiming for civil services, teaching, or higher studies in humanities. Aspirants with strong reading habits and analytical skills will thrive, building a solid foundation for diverse career paths in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in content writing, journalism, publishing, teaching, and public relations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities abound in Indian ed-tech, media houses, and corporate communication sectors. The program also serves as a strong foundation for competitive exams and advanced literary research.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Reading Habit- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with prescribed texts and explore supplementary readings from literary canons and critical essays. Start a reading journal to document insights, themes, and literary techniques, fostering early analytical skills crucial for literary studies.
Tools & Resources
College Library Resources, Online literary archives (Project Gutenberg), Goodreads.com for tracking
Career Connection
Develops a broad literary knowledge base and critical thinking, essential for all literary professions and competitive exams in India.
Master Academic Writing & Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise, and academically sound writing skills for essays, reviews, and assignments. Actively participate in class discussions and presentations to enhance verbal communication and public speaking confidence.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL for MLA formatting, Grammarly for proofreading, College English Speaking Clubs
Career Connection
Crucial for success in higher education, content creation, journalism, and any role requiring effective written and oral communication in the Indian professional landscape.
Form Study Groups and Peer Learning Networks- (Semester 1-2)
Collaborate with peers to discuss complex literary theories, interpret texts, and prepare for examinations. Peer teaching and group projects enhance understanding, develop teamwork, and expose students to diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
WhatsApp/Telegram groups, College Common Study Areas, Online collaboration tools
Career Connection
Fosters collaborative skills and diverse viewpoints, highly valued in team-oriented work environments like media, publishing, and academic research in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Literary Debates & Theories- (Semester 3-5)
Go beyond surface-level reading by exploring various literary theories (feminism, Marxism, post-colonialism) and engaging in debates. Attend college seminars, workshops, and inter-collegiate literary festivals to broaden theoretical understanding and networking.
Tools & Resources
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Literary Theory: An Anthology (Rivkin & Ryan), College Cultural & Literary Societies
Career Connection
Sharpens critical analytical skills, vital for advanced academic pursuits, research, and nuanced understanding required in roles like literary critics or specialized journalists in India.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-5)
Connect literary studies with other fields like history, philosophy, sociology, and psychology. Read non-fiction and engage with current affairs to contextualize literary works, enhancing a holistic understanding of culture and society.
Tools & Resources
Online academic journals, Documentaries and historical texts, Current affairs magazines (Frontline, The Caravan)
Career Connection
Develops a well-rounded perspective, beneficial for civil services, policy analysis, and roles requiring cross-domain knowledge in Indian governmental or non-governmental organizations.
Undertake Creative Writing or Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Initiate personal creative writing projects (poetry, short stories) or undertake mini-research projects on literary topics of interest. Seek faculty mentorship and aim for publication in college magazines or local literary journals.
Tools & Resources
College Literary Magazine, Faculty mentors, Online writing platforms (Wattpad, Medium)
Career Connection
Cultivates original thought, research acumen, and a portfolio for careers in writing, publishing, or academic research within the Indian creative and scholarly landscape.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Higher Studies and Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Identify specific areas for postgraduate studies (MA English, Journalism) or competitive exams (NET, SET, UPSC Civil Services). Begin focused preparation, including mock tests, essay writing, and current affairs analysis, aligning with career goals.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/NET coaching materials, Previous year question papers, Online learning platforms (Unacademy, Byju''''s)
Career Connection
Directly paves the way for successful entry into advanced academic programs or secures positions in prestigious government and public sector roles across India.
Seek Internships and Practical Exposure- (Semester 6)
Actively look for internships with publishing houses, media organizations, NGOs, or content agencies. Gain practical experience in editing, proofreading, content creation, or research, building a professional network and understanding industry demands.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, College Placement Cell
Career Connection
Provides invaluable real-world experience, enhances employability, and often leads to pre-placement offers in the Indian job market, especially in media and content sectors.
Develop a Professional Portfolio & Network- (Semester 6)
Curate a portfolio of academic essays, creative writing samples, and research papers. Attend literary events, conferences, and alumni meets to network with professionals and mentors, seeking guidance and exploring career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Personal blog/website, LinkedIn profile, College Alumni Association
Career Connection
Establishes a professional brand and connections, crucial for job searching, freelance work, and long-term career growth in India''''s competitive creative and academic industries.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in the Higher Secondary Examination (10 +2) with English as one of the subjects or equivalent.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 123 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theory subjects), 40% (for practical/project), External: 75% (for theory subjects), 60% (for practical/project)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21ULAN01 | Foundation Language - I | Part I Language | 4 | Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension Skills, Basic Composition, Literary Appreciation Introduction |
| 21UEL01 | English for Enrichment I | Part II English | 4 | Listening Skills Development, Speaking Skills Practice, Reading Strategies, Paragraph Writing, Fundamental Grammar, Vocabulary Expansion |
| 21UELC01 | Introduction to Literature | Core | 4 | Forms of Literature (Poetry, Prose, Drama, Fiction), Literary Terms and Devices, Introduction to Literary Criticism, Major Literary Genres, Indian English Literature Overview |
| 21UELC02 | History of English Literature - I (Chaucer to the Augustans) | Core | 4 | Old English Period, Middle English Period and Chaucer, Renaissance and Elizabethan Age, Jacobean and Caroline Age, Age of Milton, Restoration and Augustan Age |
| 21UELA01 | Principles of Literary Criticism - I | Allied | 4 | Classical Criticism (Plato, Aristotle), Neoclassical Criticism (Dryden, Johnson), Romantic Criticism (Wordsworth, Coleridge), Concept of Mimesis, Art and Morality in Criticism |
| 21UEVS01 | Environmental Studies | Part IV Non-Major | 2 | Natural Resources and Their Management, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and Environment, Environmental Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21ULAN02 | Foundation Language - II | Part I Language | 4 | Advanced Grammar Structures, Essay and Report Writing, Functional Language Use, Cultural and Literary Texts |
| 21UEL02 | English for Enrichment II | Part II English | 4 | Advanced Reading Techniques, Public Speaking Principles, Presentation Skills, Formal Report Writing, Introduction to Soft Skills, Professional Communication Etiquette |
| 21UELC03 | Indian Writing in English | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian English Literature, Major Indian English Authors, Themes in Indian English Poetry, Indian English Novel and Short Fiction, Drama in Indian English Context |
| 21UELC04 | History of English Literature - II (Romantic to the Modern Age) | Core | 4 | Romantic Age Poets and Prose Writers, Victorian Age Literature, Pre-Raphaelite Movement, Edwardian and Georgian Literature, Modernism in Literature, Post-Modern Literary Trends |
| 21UELA02 | Principles of Literary Criticism - II | Allied | 4 | Marxist Criticism, Feminist Criticism, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Deconstruction Theory, Post-Colonial Criticism, Reader-Response Theory |
| 21UVED01 | Value Education | Part IV Non-Major | 2 | Ethical Values and Morals, Human Rights and Responsibilities, Gender Sensitization and Equality, Social Responsibility and Community Service, Patriotism and National Integration, Stress Management Techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21UELC05 | American Literature | Core | 4 | Early American Literature (Puritan Age), Transcendentalism, Harlem Renaissance, Beat Generation, Major American Writers (Poe, Whitman, Frost, Hemingway), Themes in American Fiction and Poetry |
| 21UELC06 | Elizabethan Drama | Core | 4 | Pre-Shakespearian Drama, William Shakespeare: Comedies, Tragedies, Histories, Christopher Marlowe''''s Tragedies, Ben Jonson''''s Comedies, Revenge Tragedy Form, The Elizabethan Stage |
| 21UELC07 | English Language Teaching (ELT) | Core | 4 | History of ELT, Approaches and Methods of ELT, Teaching Language Skills (LSRW), Role of the Teacher and Learner, Teaching Aids and Materials, Classroom Management Strategies |
| 21UELA03 | History of English Language & Phonetics | Allied | 4 | Old English and Middle English Periods, The Great Vowel Shift, Word Formation Processes, Semantics and Lexicology, Organs of Speech and IPA, Classification of Vowels and Consonants |
| 21UELS01 | Soft Skills | Skill Based Elective | 2 | Self-Management and Self-Awareness, Interpersonal Skills and Relationships, Effective Communication Skills, Teamwork and Collaboration, Leadership Qualities, Time and Stress Management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21UELC08 | European Literature | Core | 4 | Greek and Roman Mythology and Epics, Medieval European Literature, Renaissance and Enlightenment, Major European Authors (Dante, Goethe, Tolstoy, Kafka), European Novel and Drama, Literary Movements in Europe |
| 21UELC09 | Restoration and 18th Century Drama | Core | 4 | Comedy of Manners, Sentimental Comedy, Heroic Drama, John Dryden and William Wycherley, William Congreve''''s Plays, Oliver Goldsmith and R.B. Sheridan |
| 21UELC10 | Literary Theory | Core | 4 | New Criticism, Reader-Response Theory, Psychoanalytic Criticism, Archetypal Criticism, Postmodernism, Ecocriticism and its principles |
| 21UELA04 | Journalism and Mass Communication | Allied | 4 | History of Journalism in India, News Reporting and Editing, Feature Writing and Columns, Media Ethics and Laws, Public Relations and Advertising, Digital Media and Social Media Trends |
| 21UELS02 | Personality Development | Skill Based Elective | 2 | Self-Awareness and Self-Esteem, Goal Setting and Prioritization, Positive Attitude and Motivation, Emotional Intelligence and Empathy, Assertiveness and Confidence Building, Conflict Resolution Strategies |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21UELC11 | Shakespeare | Core | 5 | Shakespearean Tragedies (e.g., Macbeth), Shakespearean Comedies (e.g., As You Like It), Historical Plays and Romances, Characterization and Thematic Analysis, Language and Poetic Devices, Stage History and Adaptations |
| 21UELC12 | Modern Drama | Core | 5 | Realism and Naturalism in Drama, Theatre of the Absurd, Expressionism and Symbolism, Major Dramatists (Ibsen, Shaw, Beckett, Pinter), Experimental Theatre Forms, Themes in Modern European Drama |
| 21UELC13 | Fiction | Core | 5 | History and Evolution of the Novel, Elements of Fiction (Plot, Character, Setting, Theme), Types of Novels (Picaresque, Gothic, Historical), Major Novelists (Defoe, Austen, Dickens, Eliot), Narrative Techniques and Point of View, The Short Story as a Genre |
| 21UELE01 | Elective - I (Children''''s Literature / Film Studies / Women''''s Writing) | Elective | 5 | Choice from Children''''s Literature: Fairy Tales, Fantasy, Bildungsroman, Moral Stories., Choice from Film Studies: History of Cinema, Film Theory, Indian Cinema and its directors., Choice from Women''''s Writing: Feminist Theory, Representation of Women, Major Women Writers, Gender issues. |
| 21UELS03 | Spoken English | Skill Based Elective | 2 | Everyday Conversations and Dialogues, Fluency and Pronunciation Practice, Intonation and Stress Patterns, Group Discussions and Debates, Oral Presentations, Interview Skills and Etiquette |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21UELC14 | Poetry | Core | 5 | Poetic Forms (Sonnet, Ode, Epic, Lyric), Figures of Speech and Poetic Devices, Major Poets (Milton, Wordsworth, Keats, T.S. Eliot), Themes in Poetry (Nature, Love, Spirituality, Society), Modern and Contemporary Poetry, Poetic Movements and Schools |
| 21UELC15 | Postcolonial Literature | Core | 5 | Colonialism and Decolonization Context, Postcolonial Theory and Concepts, Major Authors (Chinua Achebe, Salman Rushdie, Ngugi), Themes of Identity, Hybridity, Resistance, Subaltern Voices and Representation, Cultural Displacement and Migration |
| 21UELC16 | Research Methodology | Core | 5 | Types of Research (Qualitative, Quantitative), Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Methods in Humanities, Literary Research Techniques, Referencing Styles (MLA Format), Plagiarism and Ethics in Research |
| 21UELE02 | Elective - II (Translation Studies / Communicative English / Digital Humanities) | Elective | 5 | Choice from Translation Studies: Theories of Translation, Cultural Issues, Types of Translation., Choice from Communicative English: Barriers to Communication, Interview Skills, Public Speaking, Group Discussions., Choice from Digital Humanities: Digital Tools for Literary Study, Text Mining, Digital Archives, E-publishing. |
| 21UEAC01 | Extension Activities | Part V | 1 | NSS/NCC Participation, Community Engagement Programs, Sports and Physical Education, Cultural Activities and Events, Leadership Development through Activities, Social Responsibility Initiatives |




