Philosophy and Scottish Literature, MA (Hons)

Course summary

This joint programme gives you an in-depth knowledge of Philosophy and Scottish Literature.In Years 1 and 2, you will take courses that introduce you to the different aspects of each subject area, and choose options from a range of disciplines.At honours level (Years 3 and 4), you will select courses based on your interests, so you can specialise in particular topics. Studying literature and philosophy shows an openness to different ideas and perspectives which is important in many careers and the wider world.Studying philosophy gives you the skills to think about great philosophical questions in a clear and systematic way. Philosophy:

• introduces you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present

• shows the connections between different areas of human experience

• increases awareness of assumptions that influence your beliefs

Philosophy at EdinburghAs the historical home of David Hume and Adam Smith, the city of Edinburgh has long been, and remains, a fitting place to study philosophy. The University too, has a strong historical connection to the subject, counting Adam Ferguson and Sir William Hamilton among its former students. Scottish LiteratureFrom the University's Special Collections to the National Library of Scotland, the city's resources for studying literature are exceptional.You will study in the oldest department of literature in the UK and one of the longest established in the world. Our Writers-in-Residence have included:

• Jenni Fagan

• Liz Lochhead

• Sorley Maclean

• Norman MacCaig

• Michael Pedersen

• Alan Warner

In your first two years of study, you will explore the cultural contexts of all major periods of Scottish literature, from the late Middle Ages to the present. You will explore different approaches to reading and a range of texts, including international literature in English.In your final two years, you will choose courses on Scottish Literature covering specific topics, periods and genres.At this stage, you will build on all the skills you gained in the critical close reading and discussion of:

• poetry

• drama

• prose

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