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B-A-ENGLISH in Social And Cultural History Of Britain at ST. JOSEPH'S COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS) DEVAGIRI
Kozhikode, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Social and Cultural History of Britain at ST. JOSEPH'S COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS) DEVAGIRI Kozhikode?
This B.A. English Language and Literature program at St. Joseph''''s College, Devagiri, while not having ''''Social and Cultural History of Britain'''' as a formal specialization, deeply integrates this theme through core literary history papers. It focuses on understanding British society and culture as reflected in its literature, providing a nuanced perspective relevant for academic and cultural roles in India. The program equips students with critical analytical skills highly valued in India''''s expanding publishing, media, and education sectors. It fosters an appreciation for the historical evolution of English language and literature within its societal context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a passion for English literature, history, and cultural studies, seeking entry into academic, research, or content creation roles in India. It also suits individuals interested in journalism, public relations, or teaching, who want to develop strong foundational knowledge in literary history and critical analysis. Students with a background in arts and humanities are particularly well-suited, aiming for careers that require deep cultural understanding and excellent communication skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including content writing, editing, teaching, journalism, public relations, and civil services. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15+ LPA in established companies. Growth trajectories include becoming senior editors, academic researchers, cultural analysts, or media specialists in Indian companies and MNCs. The program provides a strong foundation for pursuing postgraduate studies in English, History, or Cultural Studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Literary Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core literary texts from various periods and genres. Focus on understanding literary movements, rhetorical devices, and historical contexts. Utilize the college library''''s resources and participate actively in classroom discussions to strengthen comprehension and analytical skills. Collaborate with peers on study groups to explore diverse interpretations of texts.
Tools & Resources
College Library, Online literary databases (e.g., JSTOR, Project Gutenberg for public domain texts), Peer study groups, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A solid foundation in literary analysis is crucial for all career paths in English, from academia to content creation. It enhances critical thinking and communication, essential for any professional role.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Master the art of academic essay writing, referencing, and research methodologies. Pay close attention to syllabus components on literary criticism and methodology. Practice structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and expressing ideas clearly and concisely. Seek feedback from professors on early assignments.
Tools & Resources
MLA Handbook, Purdue OWL website, Grammarly, College''''s writing center (if available)
Career Connection
Excellent academic writing is fundamental for research, publishing, content development, and effective communication in corporate or public sectors. Strong research skills are valued in almost every industry.
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Historical Awareness- (Semester 1-2)
While focusing on English literature, actively connect texts to their historical and cultural backdrops, especially those relevant to British history. Read beyond the prescribed texts to understand social movements, political events, and philosophical shifts that influenced the literature. Consider taking history as a complementary subject if available and align with career goals.
Tools & Resources
History complementary courses, Documentaries on British history, Reputable history websites, Historical fiction
Career Connection
Understanding historical context is vital for interpreting literature accurately and provides a broader cultural literacy, beneficial for roles in heritage, journalism, and cultural diplomacy in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into British Literary History and Culture- (Semester 3-5)
Focus intently on papers like ''''History of English Literature - From Chaucer to the Romantics'''' and ''''The Victorian to the Present''''. Go beyond memorizing dates and authors; analyze how social, political, and cultural shifts in Britain influenced literary themes, styles, and movements. Participate in debates or presentations on specific historical periods or cultural phenomena.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on British cultural history, Online archives of British historical documents, Academic journals on literary history, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
This deep understanding is particularly valuable for roles in research, content creation focused on history/culture, and teaching. It builds expertise sought by educational institutions and historical research bodies.
Engage with Literary and Cultural Organizations- (Semester 3-5)
Seek out opportunities to join or intern with local literary societies, cultural organizations, or academic publishing houses. Participate in literary events, book launches, and poetry readings both on and off campus. Network with writers, critics, and cultural practitioners to gain industry insights and practical experience.
Tools & Resources
College''''s literary club, Local cultural forums, Internship portals for humanities, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Direct engagement with the literary and cultural industry provides invaluable practical experience, builds professional networks, and can lead to early career opportunities in publishing, media, and arts management.
Explore Critical Theories and Their Application- (Semester 3-5)
Apply various literary theories (feminist, postcolonial, Marxist, new historicism) to British texts, understanding how different lenses reveal new insights into social and cultural aspects. Engage with critical discussions on how literature reflects and shapes societal values. This enhances analytical depth and prepares for advanced academic work.
Tools & Resources
Critical theory anthologies, Online lectures on literary theory, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Advanced theoretical understanding is key for academic research, critical journalism, and any role requiring sophisticated textual and cultural analysis. It develops intellectual versatility.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Research Project on British Social/Cultural History- (Semester 6)
For your final year project or dissertation, choose a topic directly related to a specific period or aspect of British social and cultural history as reflected in literature. Conduct thorough research, synthesize findings, and present a compelling academic argument. This demonstrates specialized knowledge and research capability.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Faculty mentors, Digital archives and databases, Statistical analysis tools (if applicable)
Career Connection
A strong research project provides a tangible portfolio piece for academic admissions, research positions, or roles in policy analysis and cultural heritage. It showcases independent thought and execution.
Prepare for Post-Graduate Studies and Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Begin preparing for national-level entrance examinations like NET/SET for lectureship, or GRE/CAT for management/international studies. Focus on strengthening general knowledge, critical reasoning, and subject-specific knowledge, particularly in areas like British literary and cultural history. Seek guidance from faculty on application processes and exam strategies.
Tools & Resources
NET/SET coaching materials, Previous year question papers, Career counseling services, Online mock tests
Career Connection
Many graduates pursue higher education or competitive exams in India. Early and focused preparation significantly boosts chances for academic careers, government jobs (e.g., UPSC Civil Services), or further specialized studies.
Develop Employability Skills and Professional Portfolio- (Semester 6)
Actively participate in career development workshops offered by the college. Build a professional portfolio showcasing writing samples, research papers, and any relevant internship certificates. Practice interview skills and refine your resume to highlight analytical, communication, and historical interpretation skills gained through the program.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn profile, Resume building workshops, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Developing a strong professional presence and a compelling portfolio directly enhances employability, making graduates attractive to a wide range of employers in media, content, education, and public service sectors across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Higher Secondary Examination or an equivalent examination recognized by the University of Calicut.
Duration: 6 Semesters / 3 Years
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG1A01 | Readings in English | Common Course | 4 | Short Stories, Poems, Essays, One-Act Plays, Literary Appreciation |
| ENG1A02 | Readings in Literature and Contemporary Issues | Common Course | 3 | Literary Texts on Social Issues, Environmental Concerns, Gender Studies, Human Rights, Literary Responses to Modernity |
| MAL1A07 | Kadha, Kavitha, Samskaram | Common Course (Additional Language) | 4 | Malayalam Short Stories, Malayalam Poetry, Cultural Studies, Folk Narratives, Modern Malayalam Literature |
| ENG1B01 | Literary Criticism and Theory | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle''''s Poetics, Romantic Criticism, Formalism, Structuralism, Post-Structuralism |
| Complementary History1 | Methodology of History & Introduction to World History | Complementary | 2 | Nature and Scope of History, Historical Methods, Ancient Civilizations, Medieval Europe, Rise of Modern States |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG2A03 | Readings in Academic and Everyday English | Common Course | 4 | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary Building, Paragraph Writing, Essay Writing, Effective Communication |
| ENG2A04 | Readings in Fiction and Informative Prose | Common Course | 3 | Novels and Novellas, Biographies and Autobiographies, Travelogues, Science Writing, Journalistic Prose |
| MAL2A08 | Kerala Samskaram | Common Course (Additional Language) | 4 | History of Kerala, Malayalam Language Development, Kerala Folk Arts, Social Movements in Kerala, Contemporary Kerala Culture |
| ENG2B02 | Methodology of Literary Studies | Core | 4 | Research Methods in Literature, Textual Analysis, Literary Theories Application, Academic Writing, Referencing and Citation |
| Complementary History2 | History of India (Ancient) | Complementary | 2 | Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Period, Mauryan Empire, Gupta Age, Early South Indian Dynasties |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG3A05 | Readings in Literary Genres | Common Course | 4 | Poetry Analysis, Drama Forms, Prose Styles, Genre Evolution, Interdisciplinary Approaches |
| MAL3A09 | Padanangalum Rachanakalum | Common Course (Additional Language) | 4 | Malayalam Literary Essays, Literary Reviews, Critical Thinking, Creative Writing in Malayalam, Contemporary Malayalam Literature |
| ENG3B03 | History of English Literature - From Chaucer to the Romantics | Core | 4 | Old and Middle English Periods, Renaissance and Elizabethan Age, Seventeenth Century Literature, Restoration and Augustan Age, Pre-Romantic and Romantic Periods, Social Context of Literary Movements |
| ENG3B04 | Shakespeare Studies | Core | 4 | Shakespearean Tragedies, Comedies and Romances, Historical Plays, Sonnets and Poems, Elizabethan Theatre and Society, Critical Approaches to Shakespeare |
| Complementary History3 | History of India (Medieval) | Complementary | 2 | Early Medieval Kingdoms, Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Social and Economic Conditions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG4A06 | Readings in Philosophy and Literary Theory | Common Course | 4 | Philosophical Concepts in Literature, Existentialism, Feminist Philosophy, Post-structuralist Thought, Literary Debates |
| MAL4A10 | Bhashayum Sahithyavum | Common Course (Additional Language) | 4 | Linguistics of Malayalam, History of Malayalam Literature, Grammar and Usage, Literary Movements in Malayalam, Modern Malayalam Authors |
| ENG4B05 | History of English Literature - The Victorian to the Present | Core | 4 | Victorian Age Literature and Society, Edwardian and Georgian Periods, Modernism and Avant-Garde, Postmodernism and Contemporary Trends, Impact of Wars and Social Change, Cultural Shifts and Literary Forms |
| ENG4B06 | Indian Writing in English | Core | 4 | Early Indian English Writers, Major Indian Novelists, Indian English Poetry, Post-Independence Literature, Diaspora Literature, Themes of Nation and Identity |
| Complementary History4 | History of India (Modern) | Complementary | 2 | Arrival of Europeans, British Rule and its Impact, Indian National Movement, Partition of India, Post-Independence Developments |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG5B07 | Women''''s Writing | Core | 4 | Feminist Literary Theory, Women''''s Voices in Literature, Gender and Representation, Themes of Patriarchy and Resistance, Impact of Social Movements |
| ENG5B08 | New Literatures in English | Core | 4 | Postcolonial Theory, Commonwealth Literature, Literature from Africa, Caribbean and Australian Literature, Themes of Identity and Migration |
| ENG5B09 | Postcolonial Literatures | Core | 4 | Colonial Discourse, Resistance and Subversion, Hybridity and Mimicry, Decolonization Processes, Literary Responses to Colonialism |
| ENG5B10 | Literary Criticism and Theory II | Core | 4 | Reader-Response Theory, Psychoanalytic Criticism, Marxist Criticism, Cultural Studies, New Historicism, Eco-criticism |
| ENG5B11 | Elective Course | Elective | 4 | Choices may include American Literature, Children''''s Literature, Environmental Literature, Literary Journalism |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG6B12 | Modern English Grammar and Usage | Core | 4 | Advanced Grammar Structures, Syntax and Semantics, Stylistics, Register and Discourse Analysis, Language Variation |
| ENG6B13 | Film Studies | Core | 4 | History of Cinema, Film Theory, Genre Studies, Narrative and Aesthetics, Indian and World Cinema |
| ENG6B14 | Translation Studies | Core | 4 | Theories of Translation, Translation Methods, Cultural Aspects of Translation, Literary Translation, Tools and Techniques |
| ENG6B15 | Project/Dissertation | Core | 2 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Presentation, Independent Research, Defense of Project |
| ENG6D01 | Open Course | Open | 3 | Interdisciplinary topics open to all streams, E.g., Academic Writing, Creative Writing, Film Appreciation |
