English Literatures
Sharpen your ability to read deeply, think critically, and write persuasively.
Why English literatures matters:
Literature offers a way to understand the human experience across time, place, and culture. By studying diverse works — from ancient epics to contemporary novels, plays, and digital media — you sharpen your ability to read deeply, think critically, and write persuasively. These skills not only enrich your understanding of the world but also prepare you for a wide range of careers in which communication, analysis, and creativity are essential.
How English literatures is taught at Muhlenberg:
Our flexible curriculum spans classics and contemporary works across regions and genres. Small, discussion-based classes and close faculty mentorship help you cultivate your voice and interpret texts in their historical and cultural contexts. You’ll graduate ready to read deeply, think critically, and write with confidence. You’ll engage in lively conversations with faculty who are active scholars and passionate teachers, and you’ll connect your studies to broader social and historical contexts. Whether your path leads to graduate school or a career in education, publishing, law, or another field, you’ll graduate with the ability to articulate ideas with clarity, empathy, and insight.
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The English literatures curriculum invites you to explore written, dramatic, filmic, and transmedia texts from a wide range of voices and traditions. You can shape your studies to focus on the authors, genres, and themes that most inspire you — from Shakespeare and Zora Neale Hurston to postcolonial narratives and works exploring human rights or environmental justice. Courses explore British, American, and global literatures; drama and film; and a range of contemporary themes. Many classes highlight underrepresented authors alongside established traditions while developing your skills in close reading, analytical and creative writing, and critical thinking. Many courses also satisfy general academic requirements in the arts, the humanities, and more, and you’ll find opportunities for experiential learning through internships, editorial work, and independent study.
Your studies extend well beyond the classroom. You might edit the student-run literary magazine Muses or the Muhlenberg Academic Review, tutor in the Writing Center, assist faculty in local schools, or help lead creative writing workshops in the community. Campus visits from acclaimed authors — recently including Ada Limón, Mohsin Hamid, Marina Carr, and Zadie Smith — offer direct insight into the craft of writing. Many students broaden their perspectives through semester-long study abroad or short-term courses in Italy, Ireland, or other locations, bringing fresh experiences back into their literary work and conversations.
Powerful Outcomes
A Muhlenberg education sets you up for success. The liberal arts will hone your ability to think critically, communicate, and problem-solve, skills that are in high demand across all employment sectors.
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