With debate continuing over Scotland’s political status, this Masters degree in Scottish Literature examines the role of literature in shaping the image and reality of the nation. You’ll learn to view Scottish writing from a perspective shaped by critical theory, as well as traditional literary history. You’ll look at a full range of writers, texts and debates from the early modern period to the present – including the works of Robert Burns, Walter Scott and James Hogg, right through to contemporary authors such as James Kelman, Janice Galloway and Kathleen Jamie. We’ll also explore the work of Robert Louis Stevenson, Nan Shepherd, Muriel Spark and too many others to mention. Class discussion examines the complex means by which national literary identity is sustained, renewed and reconsidered – as well as the role of novelists and poets in integrating Scottish identity into the ever-evolving project of ‘Britishness’. There’s an emphasis on critical debate, and we’ll question some of the assumptions that go along with studying a national literary tradition. No previous experience in studying Scottish Literature is required. Leading Scottish writers and critics feature prominently in assigned reading, alongside key insights from book history, literary criticism and political theory.

A minimum of a second class Honours degree (2.1 preferred) or equivalent. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate/relevant work/life experience are encouraged to apply. English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 minimum in each sub-skill Pearson Test of English (Academic) 60 overall with 56 in each sub-skill IBT TOEFL 80 overall with 18 in reading, 23 in writing, 19 in listening and 21 in speaking