English 1550-1700

The BA in English Language and Literature (1550-1700) at the University of Oxford offers students an in-depth exploration of a pivotal period in English literary and linguistic history, spanning from the mid-16th to the early 18th century. This comprehensive program provides a rich curriculum that combines the study of classical and early modern English texts, the development of the English language, and the socio-historical contexts that shaped literary production during this transformative era. Students will engage with a wide array of literary works, including poetry, drama, prose, and rhetorical writings from prominent authors such as William Shakespeare, John Donne, Ben Jonson, and John Milton, alongside lesser-known figures of the period.

The course emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating literary analysis with linguistic history, textual criticism, and historical research methods. Students will analyze language changes and developments—such as the evolution of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation—while also examining the political, religious, and cultural influences that impacted literary creation during this time. The program encourages critical thinking, close reading, and original research, enabling students to develop their analytical skills and deepen their understanding of the period’s distinctive literary and linguistic features.

Throughout the degree, students will have access to the University’s world-class libraries and special collections, facilitating primary source research. They will also participate in seminars, workshops, and tutorials led by experts in early modern literature and linguistics. The flexible structure of the course allows students to tailor their studies to specific interests, whether focusing on poetry, drama, prose, or language history.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academia, teaching, publishing, media, or any field that values critical analysis, historical understanding, and advanced communication skills. The University’s distinguished academic staff, combined with its vibrant scholarly community, provides an inspiring environment for students to immerse themselves in one of the most exciting and influential periods of English history. This program not only cultivates a deep appreciation of early modern English literature and language but also equips students with the analytical tools necessary for lifelong learning and professional success.

The MSt programme consists of four main components, through which you have the opportunity to pursue interests within your chosen MSt strand, as well as across period boundaries. In the first two terms, you will take a core course (A) tailored to your specific programme, a compulsory course in book history and theories of text (B) also tailored to your programme, and choose two courses from a wide range of options (C). Under the guidance of a specialist supervisor you will also research and write a dissertation, which is submitted in the final term. 

The MSt programme is assessed via the submission of four pieces of coursework. In addition to the dissertation, you will submit three essays of 5,000 to 7,000 words – one at the end of the first term, and two at the end of the second term – relating to the B and C courses that have been taken.

All course work will be completed by the end of the second term (Hilary term), leaving the summer term (Trinity term) to complete the dissertation, which is submitted in June.

A. Core course: Literature, contexts and approaches

This is the core course for this MSt. It is formally non-assessed but compulsory. The general classes on literature, contexts and approaches introduce representative key texts and current debates on the literature and cultural history of the period. This course is designed to provide a solid foundation for advanced literary study.

B. Core course: Bibliography, theories of text, history of the book, manuscript studies

This is a compulsory, assessed course, taught via a range of lectures and seminars in each of the first two terms. It is designed to train you for research in English, through the study of bibliography, palaeography, book history and theories of text (appropriate to the relevant period).

C. Special options

The special option courses present an excellent opportunity for you to develop and pursue your research interests, whether related or unrelated to other work undertaken as part of the MSt degree. You are not constrained to follow option courses within the designated period, and indeed, option courses often traverse the boundaries of the broad periods. The courses are taught in weekly, small group seminars.

D. Dissertation

You will write a 10,000- to 11,000-word dissertation on a subject of your choice, but related to the work you have been doing over the year. You will be assigned to a member of academic staff who will act as your supervisor.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in English literature and/or English language, or exceptionally a related subject. 

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.75 (with at least 3.85 in the major) out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:One to two pages
• Written work:Either one essay of 4,000 words or two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• Ertegun Scholarship Programme 

The study of English language and literature from 1550 to 1700 at the University of Oxford offers an in-depth exploration of a pivotal period in English history, culture, and literary achievement. This programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the development of the English language, Renaissance literature, and the cultural and historical contexts that influenced writers such as William Shakespeare, John Donne, Ben Jonson, John Milton, and many others. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide variety of texts, from early modern poetry and drama to prose writings, gaining skills in textual analysis, historical interpretation, and critical argumentation. The curriculum typically covers key themes such as humanism, the Reformation, the rise of scientific inquiry, and political upheaval, which significantly shaped the literary landscape of the period.

Students have opportunities to study original manuscripts, explore relevant historical documents, and analyze texts within their social, political, and religious contexts. The programme emphasizes developing critical thinking and communication skills through rigorous scholarly research and writing. As students progress, they may have the option to specialize in particular genres, authors, or themes, allowing for tailored academic focus aligned with individual interests or career goals.

The Oxford programme also includes tutorials, seminars, and workshops led by experts in early modern literature and history, fostering a vibrant academic community. The university's extensive library resources, including rare manuscripts and early editions, provide invaluable support for research. Additionally, the programme prepares students for various career paths, including academia, journalism, publishing, education, and cultural heritage sectors. Overall, studying English from 1550 to 1700 at Oxford is an intellectually stimulating experience that combines historical scholarship with literary analysis, helping students appreciate the richness and complexity of a transformative period in English history.