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BA-HONOURS in English at Sundarban Hazi Desarat College
South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is English at Sundarban Hazi Desarat College South 24 Parganas?
This English Honours program at Sundarban Hazi Desarat College focuses on developing critical thinking, literary analysis, and communication skills through a rich curriculum covering global and Indian literatures. It delves into diverse literary periods, genres, and critical theories, preparing students for various intellectual and professional pursuits in India''''s growing communication, education, and media sectors, emphasizing cultural and historical contexts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a profound passion for literature, language, and cultural studies, seeking entry into fields like journalism, content creation, education, or civil services. It also suits individuals aspiring for higher academic degrees or those aiming to significantly enhance their analytical and interpretive abilities for diverse career paths within the Indian professional landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding India-specific career paths in content writing, editing, teaching, public relations, academic research, and media production. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with substantial growth potential for experienced professionals. The program lays a strong foundation for competitive examinations like UPSC and various state civil services, and for specialized postgraduate studies in English or related humanities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Strong Reading & Analytical Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a consistent habit of critically reading core texts, summarizing key arguments, and identifying literary devices. Actively participate in peer study groups to discuss and debate interpretations, and regularly seek faculty guidance for challenging concepts and theoretical applications.
Tools & Resources
College library physical and digital resources, Online literary journals accessible via institutional network, Dedicated peer study groups for collaborative learning, Scheduled faculty office hours for personalized academic support
Career Connection
Builds fundamental critical thinking, comprehension, and interpretation skills, which are crucial for any career path demanding robust analytical abilities, from research to content creation and competitive civil services examinations in India.
Master Academic Writing and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on improving essay writing, argumentation, and research documentation skills through frequent practice and revision. Attend college-organized workshops on academic writing, diligently learn and apply proper citation styles (e.g., MLA), and submit drafts for comprehensive feedback from professors and peers.
Tools & Resources
Online writing labs like OWL Purdue, Grammar and plagiarism checking tools, Institutional academic writing workshops, Structured peer review sessions for constructive feedback
Career Connection
Develops essential skills for effective professional communication, compelling report writing, and meticulous preparation for both competitive examinations and advanced academic pursuits in India.
Explore Diverse Literary Traditions Beyond Syllabus- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond the prescribed curriculum to proactively read diverse Indian and global literatures, including significant regional works in translation. Actively engage with different cultural contexts and historical periods to significantly broaden your literary perspective and appreciation.
Tools & Resources
Local public libraries and college library''''s extended collection, Online archives of Indian and translated literature, Participation in local cultural festivals and literary events, Subscription to relevant literary magazines and periodicals
Career Connection
Enhances cultural sensitivity, global awareness, and expands a versatile knowledge base, highly valuable for roles in media, publishing, cross-cultural communication, and international relations within India and globally.
Intermediate Stage
Engage Critically with Literary Theory- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in classroom discussions and seminars focused on various literary theories (e.g., feminism, post-colonialism, structuralism). Systematically apply these theoretical frameworks to analyze literary texts, fostering a deeper, nuanced understanding of literature''''s social, political, and philosophical dimensions.
Tools & Resources
Recommended critical theory anthologies and textbooks, Access to academic journals through institutional subscriptions, Online lecture series on literary theory from renowned universities, Active participation in departmental seminars and workshops
Career Connection
Cultivates advanced analytical and critical reasoning abilities, which are highly valued in roles requiring sophisticated research, policy analysis, strategic communication, and advanced academic pursuits.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects & Presentations- (Semester 3-4)
Identify specific areas of academic interest within the curriculum and conduct small-scale, independent research projects. These should ideally culminate in formal seminar presentations, academic poster displays, or short research papers, building independent research and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
College library databases (e.g., JSTOR, EBSCO Host if available), Online research tools and academic search engines, Close mentorship and guidance from faculty members, Participation in college-level academic conferences and symposia
Career Connection
Provides foundational experience for postgraduate research, academic careers, and roles demanding investigative and analytical skills in journalism, content development, and strategic planning.
Develop Essential Soft Skills & Public Speaking- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in debates, literary quizzes, elocution contests, and various cultural and academic events organized by the college. Volunteer for club activities or student bodies to enhance leadership, teamwork, and confident presentation skills, which are crucial for professional success in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
College literary and debating clubs and societies, Local Toastmasters International chapters (if accessible), Communication and public speaking workshops, Role-playing exercises for interview and presentation practice
Career Connection
Significantly improves overall employability across all sectors by enhancing crucial communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, which are vital for successful job interviews and effective workplace performance.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Specialization via Electives & Projects- (Semester 5-6)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) in Semesters 5 and 6 based on your specific career aspirations or academic interests. Undertake an independent research project or dissertation in your chosen area of specialization, rigorously applying advanced critical and research methodologies.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated faculty advisors for specialized project guidance, University research databases and specialized literary journals, Comprehensive project guidelines and structured deadlines, Online resources for advanced literary research methods
Career Connection
Builds deep expertise for specific fields like publishing, academic research, specialized content creation, or higher education, making graduates highly competitive and desirable in the Indian job market and academic landscape.
Rigorous Preparation for Higher Education/Career Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Initiate focused and rigorous preparation for postgraduate entrance examinations (e.g., MA English entrances, NET/SET for lectureship) or highly competitive civil services examinations (e.g., UPSC, WBCS). Concentrate on enhancing general knowledge, current affairs, and advanced English comprehension and essay writing skills.
Tools & Resources
Reputable coaching institutes for competitive exams, Online test series and mock examination platforms, Compilation and analysis of previous year''''s question papers, Formation of dedicated study groups for peer learning and motivation
Career Connection
Directly impacts admission to prestigious universities for higher studies or secures coveted government positions and academic roles, offering a stable and impactful career trajectory in India.
Build a Professional Portfolio & Strategic Network- (Semester 5-6)
Compile a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your finest academic papers, creative writing samples, research projects, and any relevant work. Actively network with college alumni, current professors, and professionals in your fields of interest through seminars, workshops, and professional platforms like LinkedIn.
Tools & Resources
Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, College alumni networks and career guidance cells, Participation in industry-specific seminars and workshops, Online portfolio platforms to showcase your work digitally
Career Connection
Significantly facilitates job placements, secures valuable internship opportunities, and fosters mentorship relationships, all of which are crucial for launching and sustaining a successful career in India''''s dynamic professional landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination or equivalent with English as one of the subjects. Generally, minimum 50% marks in aggregate and 45% in English, or 55% in English, or 50% in aggregate for candidates from a recognized Board/Council.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC1 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Language and communication skills, Reading comprehension, Writing skills for academic and professional purposes, Grammar and vocabulary, Effective communication strategies |
| ENGC01 | Indian Classical Literature | Core Course | 6 | Sanskrit drama traditions, Epic and Puranic narratives, Classical Indian poetics and aesthetics, Folk and regional literary forms, Representative texts from ancient to medieval India |
| ENGC02 | European Classical Literature | Core Course | 6 | Greek epic poetry (e.g., Homer), Greek tragedy and philosophy, Latin poetry and rhetoric, Roman drama and its influence, Classical literary conventions and themes |
| GE1 | Generic Elective 1 (Other Discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC2 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Natural resources and ecosystems, Biodiversity and conservation, Environmental pollution and control, Global environmental issues, Sustainable development and public awareness |
| ENGC03 | Indian Writing in English | Core Course | 6 | Early Indian English poetry and fiction, Major Indian English novelists and playwrights, Themes of nationalism, identity, and post-colonialism, Partition literature in Indian English, Contemporary Indian voices and experimental forms |
| ENGC04 | British Poetry and Drama: 14th to 17th Centuries | Core Course | 6 | Chaucer and medieval narratives, Renaissance drama and theatre, Shakespearean tragedies and comedies, Metaphysical poetry and its characteristics, Jacobean tragedy and satire |
| GE2 | Generic Elective 2 (Other Discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGC05 | British Poetry and Drama: 17th and 18th Centuries | Core Course | 6 | Restoration comedy and satire, Augustan poetry and Neoclassicism, Rise of sentimentalism in drama, Poetic forms of the 18th century, Early developments in the English novel |
| ENGC06 | British Novel: 18th Century | Core Course | 6 | The rise of the novel as a literary genre, Epistolary novels and their conventions, Sentimentalism and its expression in fiction, Gothic novel and elements of terror, Realism and social commentary in early novels |
| ENGC07 | British Romantic Literature | Core Course | 6 | Romantic poetry and its key figures, Nature poetry and the sublime, Imagination and emotion in Romanticism, Gothic influences on Romantic prose and poetry, Political and social contexts of the Romantic era |
| ENGSECA01 | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Essay writing techniques, Fundamentals of research paper writing, Developing arguments and critical analysis, Understanding citation styles (e.g., MLA), Academic ethics and avoiding plagiarism |
| GE3 | Generic Elective 3 (Other Discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGC08 | British Literature: 19th Century | Core Course | 6 | Victorian poetry and its themes, Realism and naturalism in prose, Social commentary and industrial revolution literature, Representation of women in Victorian literature, Pre-Raphaelites and Aestheticism |
| ENGC09 | Women''''s Writing | Core Course | 6 | Feminist literary theory and criticism, Representation of women in literature, Suffrage movement and early women writers, Contemporary women''''s voices from diverse backgrounds, Global perspectives on women''''s experiences |
| ENGC10 | British Literature: Early 20th Century | Core Course | 6 | Modernism in poetry and prose, War poetry and its impact, Stream of consciousness technique, Existentialist themes in literature, Psychological novel and character development |
| ENGSECB02 | Research Methodology | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Introduction to research design, Methods of data collection and analysis, Conducting literature reviews, Qualitative and quantitative research approaches, Ethical considerations in research |
| GE4 | Generic Elective 4 (Other Discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGC11 | American Literature | Core Course | 6 | American Romanticism and Transcendentalism, Realism and Naturalism in American fiction, Modern American poetry and its innovations, African-American literature and civil rights, The Great American Novel tradition |
| ENGC12 | Postcolonial Literatures | Core Course | 6 | Postcolonial theory and its key concepts, Themes of hybridity, identity, and nationhood, Subaltern studies and marginalized voices, Literature from Africa, Caribbean, and South Asia, Language and power in postcolonial contexts |
| ENGDSEA1 | Discipline Specific Elective 1 (Option A: Modern European Drama) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Realism and naturalism in European theatre, Theatre of the Absurd and its exponents, Expressionism and symbolism in drama, Brechtian theatre and epic drama, Feminist and political theatre |
| ENGDSEA2 | Discipline Specific Elective 2 (Option B: Literary Theory) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Formalism and New Criticism, Structuralism and post-structuralism, Deconstruction and its impact, Psychoanalytic criticism and literature, Reader-response theory and reception aesthetics |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGC13 | Modern Indian Literature in Translation | Core Course | 6 | Regional literatures of India, Dalit literature and its socio-political context, Feminist writings in Indian languages, Short stories and novels from post-independence India, Challenges and significance of translation |
| ENGC14 | Popular Literature | Core Course | 6 | Detective and crime fiction, Science fiction and fantasy literature, Children''''s literature and its pedagogical aspects, Graphic novels and comic books, Theories of popular culture and mass media |
| ENGDSEB3 | Discipline Specific Elective 3 (Option C: World Literatures) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Latin American Boom and magical realism, African novel and oral traditions, East Asian fiction and cultural narratives, European avant-garde movements, Global contemporary literary trends |
| ENGDSEB4 | Discipline Specific Elective 4 (Option D: Partition Literature) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Historical context of India''''s partition, Trauma narratives and memory, Oral histories and personal accounts, The experience of displacement and identity, Representation of communal violence and aftermath |
