MSc Renaissance Literature
Modern English Literature begins in the extraordinary developments of the 16th and early 17th centuries. Under the influence of social, religious and political transformations, and through engagement with classical and continental European culture, new theories and practices of literature appeared that have influenced generations of writers since.
Studying the literature of this period allows us both to enter a world that is not our own, and to see the origins of modern western perspectives and predicaments. Extensive collections of Renaissance manuscripts and printed books are held in Edinburgh by the University’s own library, the National Library of Scotland, and the National Archives of Scotland. These collections offer excellent research resources and opportunities for graduate study, and are particularly rich in materials relating to Shakespeare and Renaissance drama.
The MSc by Research in Renaissance Literature offers students the opportunity to undertake a substantial piece of supervised independent research in this field. We can supervise research in any area of the field and have particular strengths in Renaissance drama and performance, Renaissance poetry, the politics of literature in the Renaissance, religious writing in the Renaissance, Renaissance biographical and autobiographical writing, and the relevance to the study of Renaissance literature of modern and contemporary theory.
Option courses
Please note that your choice of options depends on availability and will be decided in consultation with your supervisor.
Learning outcomes
Students should:
- develop a knowledge and understanding of the roles played by various forms of writing in reflecting and influencing key elements of religious and secular culture in the period 1500-1688
- deepen their knowledge and understanding of selected themes and topics in a way that enables them to select and execute an independent piece of research
- develop a familiarity with research resources particularly relevant to the study of Renaissance literature
- gain a grasp of the methodological issues and problems of literary and cultural analysis, equipping them with experience of creating original academic work to underpin (where appropriate) further interdisciplinary research at PhD level
Contact
To discuss possible topics and areas for the MSc by Research in Renaissance Literature please contact Dr James Loxley:
Apply online
This article was published on Aug 3, 2012