English Literature and Classics, MA (Hons)

Many of the foundational concepts of Western society were first articulated in ancient Greek or Latin, languages that, alongside English, underpin numerous influential literary works. This joint honours programme develops critical, analytical, linguistic, and creative skills through engagement with a wide array of texts and diverse reading approaches. In English Literature, students explore the cultural contexts of writing in English from the late Middle Ages to the present. For Classics, the focus is on significant scholarship and literature from the classical world, with options for Greek, Latin, or non-language pathways. Such study enhances understanding of both historical and contemporary societies.Edinburgh provides an outstanding setting for literary and classical pursuits, as home to the UK's oldest department of English and Scottish Literature. Exceptional resources, including the University's Special Collections and the National Library of Scotland, support in-depth exploration. The programme offers flexibility, allowing students to select optional courses in Years 1 and 2 before specialising in later honours years.