Literary Studies: English Literature and Culture

The one-year, English-taught master's programme in English Literature and Culture focuses on the interaction between literature and key political and social issues such as identity, migration, memory and the metropolis, but also between literature and the literary tradition, and literature and film. Taught by Leiden University's acclaimed English literature faculty, this programme gives you access to excellent teaching and resources including Leiden University’s unique collection of manuscripts, books, periodicals and electronic media.
Focus on your area of interest
An expansive curriculum spanning the Middle Ages to the present day gives you scope to pursue your personal area of interest. Choose from ‘popular’ culture to the classics; from Beowulf to Chaucer; Milton and Shakespeare to James Joyce and Anglo-American films. Besides reading works from the traditional canons of British and American literature, you can also focus on speculative fiction, the Gothic, and Hollywood film.
Customised education
Design your own curriculum according to your career goals or interests. Concentrate on English-language literature from the 20th and 21st centuries, or on courses related to medieval or early modern literature. Hone your language skills or prepare for the Educational Master. You can also choose to combine English literature courses with Masterlanguage and English linguistics courses.