Literature Romanticism and the English Lake District

Our Master's in English Literature offers a unique opportunity to study a rich body of literary and non-literary texts within the geographical landscape which inspired them. This course is offered at the University of Cumbria's Ambleside campus, which is located in the very heart of the Lake District National Park - a UNESCO world heritage site.

For generations, the stunning landscape of the English Lake District has been a source of inspiration for poets and writers alike. We look forward to welcoming you onto our unique MA, to study a body of writing which explores our deep relationship with place and the natural environment, all within this awe-inspiring backdrop of this magnificent landscape.

COURSE OVERVIEW Here you will explore critical ideas about the relationship between the creative imagination and place, and have the opportunity to visit some of the specific locations which have inspired and which continue to inspire writers. The course also offers opportunities to engage with partner organisations such as Brantwood and the Wordsworth Trust, and to work with related and unique manuscript resources.

More than just an MA in English literature, the course can enhance prospects in a range of careers that demand high-level analytical and interpretative skills as well as advanced skills in written and oral communication. Specific career pathways might include work in publishing or the creative and cultural heritage industries; the course can also support students wishing to go on to study at MPhil/PhD level.

ON THIS COURSE YOU WILL...

Study surrounded by the stunning and inspiring scenery of the Lake District, which has inspired many of the UK's greatest writers

Take part in field trips to explore how the Lakes have influenced literature

Be involved in Cumbria's thriving literary scene and get the opportunity to work with local cultural heritage organisations

Benefit from small class sizes so we can help you to personally develop and flourish throughout your MA Programme.

Be taught by literary experts and published academics

Have opportunities to develop real-world projects relating to the contemporary cultural heritage industry

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN The MA develops high-level analytical, interpretative, written and oral communication skills. Time-management, research skills, team-working, and independent working are also developed during the programme.

Students are encouraged to respond to assessment briefs and other tasks both critically and creatively. As well as engaging analytically with representations of place and landscape in the written word, you will develop an advanced understanding of the complex relationship between nature and culture. You will explore a range of ethical and environmental debates through the lens of literature, and will consider the key role played by the Arts in helping to shape responses to such debates.

Via work with partner organisations in the region (e.g. Wordsworth Grasmere, the National Trust and the Brantwood Trust) you will gain understanding of the 21st Century cultural heritage industry, and will explore the work and activities of this industry within a UNESCO world heritage site context.

Year one

British Romanticism and the Lake District

Literature and the Environment

A Natural Education: Children's Literature and the Lake District

Contemporary Cumbrian Writing

Poetry and Place

Literary Tourism and Cultural Heritage in the Lake District

Dissertation