this was a great introduction into the world of literature. as a student from the STEM side, this course changed my brain chemistry for literature--it made me appreciate it and its importance, and it actually influenced me to 1. start reading again and 2. read classics. seconding the review that the unit heavily favours english majors. not many essay writing skills were taught, yet all of our assessments (3 assignments) were essays.

Anonymous, Semester 1, 2025

Very true that the unit heavily favours English/Critical Theory-type majors. The reading demands are pretty unbalanced too - some weeks require that you read a whole novel (250+ pages) while other weeks require that you read a 10-page essay. The assignments are easy-going though and Alex Howard does a great job organising and maximising a unit that is pretty dodgy in its very conception (Dalyell). Spend the week before start of sem making a dent in any novels that get set

Anonymous, Semester 1, 2021

Needs improvement. While the seminars require loads of reading and research, the assessments are fairly simple and thoroughly explained. Would recommend anyone considering this unit to read a few works of classical literature and some famous philosophers/political theorists before undertaking this unit as then you won’t be left in the dark during class discussions.

Anonymous, Semester 1, 2020