Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830

The Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830 program at the University of York offers students an in-depth exploration of a pivotal period in English literary history, focusing on the rich and diverse works produced during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This programme uniquely combines a detailed study of Romantic writers such as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Lord Byron with an examination of the sentimental literary tradition that influenced societal attitudes and cultural norms of the time. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, including poetry, prose, and philosophical writings, to understand the social, political, and aesthetic currents that shaped the literature of this dynamic period. The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how romance and sentimentality reflected and influenced contemporary ideas of nature, emotion, individualism, and social change. Throughout the programme, students will develop their analytical skills through rigorous literary analysis, contextual research, and critical discussions. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of historical context, encouraging learners to consider how political upheavals, the Industrial Revolution, and emerging scientific ideas impacted literary expression. The programme prepares students for careers in academia, publishing, education, and cultural preservation by fostering critical thinking, interpretative skills, and a deep appreciation for the literary landscape of the Romantic and Sentimental ages. With access to extensive archives and digital resources, students will have the opportunity to undertake independent research projects. Overall, this programme offers a stimulating academic environment tailored for those passionate about literature, history, and cultural studies, providing a thorough grounding in one of the most influential periods of English literary history.

The Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830 program at the University of York offers an in-depth exploration of a pivotal period in literary history, focusing on the emergence and development of Romanticism and Sentimentalism in Britain. This interdisciplinary course examines a broad range of texts—from poetry and prose to essays—that illustrate the profound cultural and intellectual shifts of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Students will engage with iconic authors such as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Percy Shelley, Mary Shelley, and Lord Byron, analyzing their contributions to the Romantic movement, which emphasized emotion, individualism, and a deep appreciation of nature. The program also covers the Sentimental novel genre, exploring works by authors like Laurence Sterne and Hannah More, which focus on emotion, morality, and social critique.

Throughout the course, participants will investigate key themes including the relationship between human emotion and nature, the influence of revolutionary politics, and the aesthetic innovations that defined this period. The curriculum combines close textual analysis with contextual historical studies, allowing students to understand how literature interacted with social and political change during this transformative era. Furthermore, the program encourages critical thinking about the enduring influence of Romantic and Sentimental literature on contemporary culture and literary expression.

Students will have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and independent research projects, developing skills in literary analysis, academic writing, and historical interpretation. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, publishing, teaching, and cultural institutions, providing a comprehensive understanding of an essential period in literary history. By the end of the course, students will have gained a nuanced appreciation of the complexities of Romantic and Sentimental Literature and their significance in shaping modern perceptions of emotion, nature, and individualism.

The Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830 program requires applicants to possess a strong academic background in English literature or related fields, including coursework that demonstrates proficiency in literary analysis and history. Prospective students are expected to have achieved a minimum of ABB at A-levels or equivalent qualifications, with particular emphasis on English, Literature, or Language subjects. International applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with minimum scores of 7.0 overall and specific subsection requirements met as specified by the university's admissions office. Prior exposure to historical contexts of 18th and early 19th-century literary movements, including familiarity with authors like Samuel Taylor Coleridge, William Wordsworth, Jane Austen, and Percy Shelley, is beneficial for success in the program. The curriculum emphasizes advanced critical reading, analytical writing, and research skills, requiring students to complete core modules covering Romantic poetry, Gothic fiction, sentimental novels, and their socio-cultural impact. Additionally, students undertake a substantial dissertation or research project exploring specific themes, authors, or literary periods within the Romantic and Sentimental literature scope. Practical skills in archival research, textual analysis, and literary theory are fostered through seminars, workshops, and assessment tasks. Entry also depends on a personal statement demonstrating motivation and engagement with the subject, along with two academic references attesting to the applicant's scholarly potential. The program promotes intellectual independence, critical debate, and comprehensive understanding of the literary, historical, and philosophical dimensions of the Romantic and Sentimental periods, preparing students for careers in academia, publishing, education, or cultural sectors. Opportunities for participation in conferences, publication, and collaboration with researchers are integral to the program's structure. Applicants are advised to review the specific admission criteria and deadlines on the University of York's official website to ensure a complete application. The program supports diverse learning styles and encourages interdisciplinary approaches, making it suitable for students with varied backgrounds and interests in literary studies.

The Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830 program at the University of York offers a comprehensive and flexible approach to financing studies. Students have access to a variety of funding options to support their academic journey, including government-backed loans such as the Student Loan Company (SLC) loans, which cover tuition fees and living costs. These loans are subject to eligibility criteria and repayment terms, which are designed to be manageable post-graduation. In addition to loans, students can explore scholarships and bursaries dedicated to humanities disciplines, aimed at recognizing academic excellence and providing financial assistance to those in need. The university also participates in national schemes like the Tuition Fee Loan, which enables students to defer payment until after completing their studies and reaching a certain income threshold.

Furthermore, the University of York offers a range of part-time work opportunities and paid internships for students during their studies, allowing them to earn income while gaining valuable professional experience. Many students also apply for external scholarships from cultural and literary organizations that support studies in Romantic and Sentimental Literature, enhancing their financial stability and enriching their academic experience. Financial planning and advice services are available on campus to help students navigate funding options, budgeting, and managing their finances effectively throughout their degree.

The program's cost structure includes tuition fees set annually by the university, with arrangements in place for international students, who may have different fee levels. The university also provides information on additional costs, such as course materials and access to library resources, which are minimal but important for a well-rounded educational experience. Overall, the financing options for students enrolled in the Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830 program are designed to be accessible, with several pathways to ensure students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial hardship, thereby fostering a rich scholarly environment that supports diverse student backgrounds and financial situations.

The Romantic and Sentimental Literature 1770-1830 program at the University of York offers a comprehensive exploration of a pivotal period in literary history, focusing on the development of Romanticism and Sentimentalism. This programme investigates the cultural, philosophical, and aesthetic shifts that characterized the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, emphasizing the literary works that shaped and reflected the ideals and emotions of the era. Students engage with a diverse range of texts, including poetry, novels, essays, and letters, from prominent authors such as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Jane Austen, Percy Shelley, and Mary Shelley, among others. The curriculum examines key themes such as nature, emotion, individualism, imagination, and the critique of Enlightenment rationalism, providing students with a deep understanding of the historical and social contexts that influenced these literary movements. The program also considers the role of sentimentality in shaping contemporary notions of morality, empathy, and human experience, analyzing how literature of this period challenged traditional values and contributed to cultural transformations. Coursework typically includes close textual analysis, research projects, and written assignments designed to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. The program aims to prepare students for careers in academia, publishing, curation, or related fields by fostering expertise in early modern and Romantic literature, alongside research and communication skills. Additionally, students benefit from the university’s strong network of academic staff specializing in eighteenth and nineteenth-century literature, and they often engage in seminars, workshops, and presentations to deepen their understanding and scholarly engagement. Graduates from this programme are well-equipped with knowledge of literary history, literary theory, and cultural studies, enabling them to critically evaluate texts within their historical and philosophical contexts. The university’s facilities and resources support extensive research and independent study, providing an ideal environment for those passionate about Romantic and Sentimental literature. Overall, the program presents an in-depth exploration of a transformative period of literary history, emphasizing both historical significance and enduring literary value.