Canadian Literature

ENGL 215/6.0

Overview

A survey of Canadian literature in English from its beginnings to the contemporary period. Readings will include poetry, short fiction and nonfiction, as well as novels from various eras; authors to be studied may include Moodie, Atwood, Klein, Richler, Callaghan, Ondaatje, Laurence, Munro, Brand, and King.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, students will be able to:

  1. Identify representative authors and texts in Canadian literature from the Confederation period to the present day.
  2. Identify and describe major genres and literary techniques that have influenced the development of Canadian literature.
  3. Describe the development of Canadian literature from its origins as an outgrowth of British literature to its establishment as a discrete national literature with its own distinct voice and set of traditions.
  4. Formulate sustained and logical arguments that build on textual evidence and manifest themselves in a variety of written forms, such as expository essays, encyclopaedia articles, and online discussion forums.