Course summary

Many of the basic concepts underlying Western society found expression for the first time in ancient Greek or Latin. Together with English and Scots, they are the language of many highly influential literary works. Studying Scottish Literature and Classics helps us understand the world in which we live now, as well as shedding light on the past. The programme prepares you to contribute to a society in which an understanding of texts of all kinds is crucially important. Studying a combination of literature and classics shows an openness to ideas and perspectives other than your own, an essential attribute in many careers and a global marketplace. Scottish Literature You will develop your critical, analytic, linguistic and creative skills by engaging with a broad range of texts and a variety of approaches to reading. You will explore the cultural contexts of all major periods of Scottish literature from the late Middle Ages to the present. Classics You can choose to take a Greek, Latin or non-language pathway through Classics study. You will study the highly influential scholarship and literature of the classical world. Why Edinburgh We are the oldest department of literature in the UK, and one of the longest established in the world. We are proud to be based in the first UNESCO World City of Literature, a fantastic literary city which many greats of Scottish literature have called home. Our four-year degree gives you choice and flexibility in what you study. In Years 1 and 2, you can choose option courses from a wide range of disciplines in addition to Scottish Literature and Classics. In your honours years (Year 3 and 4), you will study research-led courses selected on the basis of your own interests in specific topics, periods or literary genres.