Literature and Myth

The BA in Literature and Myth at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive exploration of literary texts and mythological traditions from various cultures and historical periods. This programme is designed to deepen understanding of the ways stories influence human culture, society, and individual identity. Throughout the course, students will analyze a diverse range of literary works, from classical mythology to contemporary fiction, examining themes, narrative techniques, and cultural contexts. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, close reading, and analytical skills, enabling students to interpret complex texts and develop well-informed arguments. Students will engage with mythic structures and motifs, exploring their relevance and transformation across different literary genres and eras. The curriculum includes modules on classical mythology, literary history, and thematic studies, complemented by options in creative writing or cultural studies. Additionally, the programme encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, philosophy, and arts to enrich literary analysis. With dedicated tutors and a vibrant academic community, students will participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects that foster collaborative learning and intellectual growth. The course prepares graduates for careers in education, publishing, media, cultural management, or further academic research. By the end of the programme, students will possess a nuanced understanding of how mythic elements shape storytelling and cultural narratives, equipping them with skills applicable across numerous fields. The University of Essex's supportive learning environment and modern facilities enhance the educational experience, making this programme an ideal choice for students passionate about literature, mythology, and cultural studies.

The Literature and Myth programme at the University of Essex offers students an engaging and comprehensive exploration of literary texts and mythological narratives from across cultures and historical periods. Designed to cultivate critical analysis, interpretative skills, and a deep understanding of how stories shape human experience, this degree combines the study of classical and contemporary literature with the examination of mythological traditions. Students will delve into a wide range of literary genres, including poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction, while also engaging with myths from ancient Greece and Rome, Norse traditions, Eastern mythologies, and indigenous stories. The programme emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to analyze texts through literary theory, cultural studies, and historical contexts.

Throughout the course, students will develop skills in close reading, textual analysis, and research, preparing them for careers in education, publishing, media, cultural management, or further academic study. The curriculum covers core modules on literary history, theory, and critical methods, alongside specialized options focusing on mythological themes, storytelling techniques, and the role of myths in modern society. There are opportunities for practical involvement through presentations, essays, and projects, fostering independent learning and intellectual curiosity.

The programme also encourages engagement with contemporary issues linked to myth and literature, such as identity, gender, politics, and the influence of stories on cultural values. In addition to classroom learning, students will have access to the university’s extensive resources, including digital archives, libraries, and expert faculty members passionate about literature and mythology. The programme aims to produce graduates equipped with analytical, communicative, and research skills that are highly valuable in various professional fields. The foundation year was established in 2018, highlighting the university’s commitment to expanding its arts and humanities offerings. By the end of the degree, students will have a sophisticated understanding of how myths and literature resonate across different cultures and eras, and how they continue to influence contemporary storytelling and cultural identities.

Program requirements for Literature and Myth at the University of Essex include a strong foundation in classical and modern literature, mythological studies, and critical analysis. Applicants are typically expected to hold a minimum of a Level 3 qualification equivalent to A-levels with a good pass in relevant subjects, or equivalent international qualifications. Prior interest or coursework in literature, mythology, or related fields is advantageous. The program admits students with a diverse range of academic backgrounds, provided they demonstrate strong literacy skills and a passion for the subject. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements, such as an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or equivalent. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, interpretative skills, and a deep understanding of mythological themes and literary movements across different periods and cultures. Students are encouraged to participate actively in seminars, workshops, and research projects, which are integral parts of the curriculum. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating history, philosophy, and cultural studies. Entry is competitive and subject to review of academic transcripts, personal statement, and, where applicable, references that demonstrate the applicant's interest and suitability for the course. There are no specific prerequisites in terms of prior coursework, but prior knowledge in literature or mythology enhances the student's ability to succeed. The foundation year program is typically intended for students requiring additional preparatory study to meet degree-level standards. The program duration is usually three years full-time or four years with a sandwich or placement year, and students are expected to adhere to the university's academic progress standards to maintain their place on the course.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

Literature and Myth at the University of Essex is a dynamic and interdisciplinary degree programme that explores the rich traditions of literature and mythology from ancient to contemporary times. Established in 2014, the programme is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of mythological themes, narrative structures, and literary techniques across different cultures and historical periods. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, close reading, and scholarly research, preparing students for careers in writing, publishing, education, cultural management, and further academic study.

Students engage with a variety of texts including classical mythology, modern literature, and contemporary media, examining how myths shape cultural identities and influence literary expression. Throughout the course, students develop skills in textual analysis, argumentation, and theoretical application, as well as collaborative and independent research abilities. The programme's innovative approach encourages students to think critically about the ways in which mythological motifs recur across different genres and media, fostering an understanding of their cultural significance and enduring relevance.

The Department of Literature, Film, and Theatre at Essex provides excellent resources, including access to extensive libraries, digital archives, and dedicated study spaces. Teaching staff are experienced scholars who often engage students in research projects, seminars, and workshops to deepen their understanding of the subject matter. The programme also offers opportunities for field trips, guest lectures, and participation in literary festivals, enhancing the practical and experiential aspects of students' learning.

Graduates of the Literature and Myth programme at Essex have gone on to pursue careers in writing, teaching, arts management, digital media, and cultural consultancy, among other fields. The programme's flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, combining modules in literary theory, cultural studies, comparative mythology, and creative writing. Overall, the course aims to foster a lifelong appreciation of literature and myth, cultivating skills that are valuable in many professional and academic contexts.