Studying literature creates the ability to make meaningful connections between the seen and unseen through the study of metaphor and figurative language. The literature minor allows students to pursue their passion for reading and writing as they continue their studies in other areas.
Why should I study literature?
Several global crises of the 21st century have been attributed to "colossal failures of imagination.” We teach literature with a keen sense of its relevance for our world, emphasizing literary study as a discipline of the imagination that develops a/an:
- Intellectual capacity for critical thought
- Emotional capacity for sympathetic understanding
- Aesthetic capacity for appreciating beauty
- Moral capacity for ethical action
- Creative capacity for effective communication
What can I do with this degree?
Many students pair English literature studies with majors in the humanities, social sciences, biblical and theological studies, business and economics, and many of the physical sciences as well. Students also have flexibility to explore literature from Spanish and Latin American cultures. By exploring the written word through a critical, inquisitive, and passionate lens, students gain deep thinking skills that strengthen their qualifications and make them stand out from competitors.
What skills will I develop?
- Research and literary analysis
- Clear and effective communication
- Effective presentation skills
- How to learn quickly
- Literary study, such as contexts, critical approaches, and methods for interpretation
- A broad understanding of the history and representative works of British and American literary traditions and those of other cultures
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
Delve into unique literary topics
Some of our bold, innovative courses contribute to the cosmopolitan distinction of Bethel's literature program:
- Literatures of Faith
- World Literature (Japanese or Central and South American)
- Travel Writing taught on location in England
- Topics in Literature Studies (recent courses have featured "Monster Literature" and "Tolkien's Environments"—a study of the source material that inspired Tolkien).
The English department also offers England Term: a semester-long study abroad opportunity for students interested in delving deeper into literature studies on location.
Gain hands-on experience
Our department offers many on-campus opportunities for students to hone their creative craft. These include:
- The Coeval, a student-run journal published once a semester. Students can submit their fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and artwork for publication in the journal, or apply to work as a journal editor
- The Clarion, Bethel's student newspaper
- Textura, a student-written magazine produced using materials from their international J-Term trip
- The Jerry Healy Poetry Prize, awarded for our annual poetry contest
17
professional writers spoke in Bethel classes during the 2016–17 school year
99
students majoring in the department
Recent News
Why We Teach
September 06, 2018 | 2 p.m.
Amanda McKnight '08, Award-winning Investigative Journalist
July 24, 2018 | Noon
Student Poets Reflect on Loss
June 19, 2018 | 10:30 a.m.
Amy Herman-Roloff ’01 Follows Her Calling as Director of CDC South Africa
May 30, 2018 | 10:30 a.m.
Upcoming Events
SEPT 25 2018
David Brooks: The Road to Character
7 p.m. Benson Great Hall
When civil discourse seems elusive, hearing stories of women and men of character who can bridge divides can build hope.
We had numerous opportunities to practice journalism in classroom and professional settings, and we didn't just learn it as a craft. We studied the role of journalism as an institution, which I find very beneficial in today's media environment.
Jared Nelson '16Current job: Communications Manager, PrepHoops.com
Literature changed who I was, allowed me to look at the world in a new way, to become a more curious person. Faith-learning integration at Bethel helped prepare me to link my faith with my work.
Amy Williams '07Current job: Major Gifts Officer at Ecumen
For me, journalism meant becoming a reporter, but God brought me into ministry. I quickly learned that good writing transcends vocation. Creative storytelling is key anywhere. Studying journalism helped me find my voice and bring good writing to any calling.
Monique Kleinhuizen '08 GS'16Current job: Communications Strategist at Bethel University
