ENG102 - Introduction to world literature
Section outline
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Dear Students,
Welcome to ENG 102: Introduction to World Literature. In this module, we will explore major literary genres—prose, poetry, drama, biography, and essays—from different parts of the world, while examining themes, style, plot, and characterization in both oral and written traditions.
This course will strengthen your analytical, critical reading, and research skills, and deepen your appreciation of literature across cultures and periods. I encourage you to participate actively and engage fully with the texts
Module aim:
To introduce students to the major genres, movements, and traditions of world literature, and to develop their skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and appreciation of texts from different cultures and periods.
Learning outcomes :
At the end of the module, students should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
i. the major genres of world Literature in their different genres such as prose fiction (the novel and the short story), biography, drama, poetry, essay ;
ii. the birth (emergence) and the development of world Literature ;
iii. the new trends regarding the topics, the themes and the conception of Literature
Module facilitator contacts: email: n.evode@ines.ac.rw
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1. Introduction
In this section, we begin by exploring the fundamental question: What is Literature? You will examine different definitions of literature and understand it as an artistic expression of human experience through language.
We will distinguish between the two major branches of literature—oral literature and written literature—and explore how stories, poems, and dramas reflect culture, history, beliefs, and social realities.
You will also be introduced to the main genres of literature: prose, poetry, and drama, laying the foundation for deeper study in the following sections.
Learning outcomes
- gain a deeper comprehension of various literary elements such as plot, character, setting, theme, symbolism, and narrative structure. They learn how these elements function within different genres and forms of literature.
- Defining literature involves critical analysis and interpretation. Students learn to analyze texts closely, identifying key themes, motifs, and literary techniques. They develop the ability to articulate their interpretations effectively through writing and discussion.
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Prose literature refers to written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without the structured rhythm and meter that characterize poetry. It includes genres such as short stories, novels, essays, biographies, and other narrative or descriptive writings. This section introduces learners to selected prose texts that explore human experiences, cultural values, social issues, and imaginative storytelling. Through reading and analyzing prose, learners develop an appreciation for literary techniques, themes, and characters while strengthening their language and critical thinking skills.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this section, learners should be able to:
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Identify the main elements of prose such as plot, setting, character, theme, and point of view.
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Summarize and interpret key ideas from selected prose texts.
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Analyze characters and events and explain how they contribute to the overall message of a text.
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Introduction to the Section of Poetry
Poetry is a form of literature that uses carefully chosen words, rhythm, imagery, and sound to express ideas, emotions, and experiences. Poets often use literary devices such as metaphor, simile, rhyme, and symbolism to convey deeper meanings and create vivid impressions in the reader’s mind. In this section, learners will explore selected poems that reflect different themes such as love, nature, society, culture, and human feelings. Studying poetry helps learners appreciate the beauty of language while developing their ability to interpret figurative expressions and poetic messages.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this section, learners should be able to:
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Identify the main features of poetry such as rhythm, rhyme, stanza, and imagery.
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Recognize and explain common poetic devices such as simile, metaphor, personification, and symbolism.
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Interpret the themes and messages presented in different poems.
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Drama is a form of literature that is written to be performed on stage. It presents stories through dialogue and actions of characters rather than through narration. Plays often explore human relationships, conflicts, and social issues, allowing audiences to experience the emotions and motivations of characters directly. In this section, learners will study selected dramatic texts to understand how playwrights use dialogue, stage directions, and characterization to communicate themes and ideas. Studying drama also helps learners appreciate performance, teamwork, and the expressive power of spoken language.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this section, learners should be able to:
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Identify the main elements of drama such as plot, characters, dialogue, setting, and stage directions.
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Explain the structure of a play, including acts and scenes.
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Analyze characters and conflicts in dramatic texts.
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English literature has developed over many centuries, reflecting the historical, cultural, and social changes of different times. Each literary period is characterized by particular themes, styles, and influential writers. In this section, learners will explore the major periods of English literature and understand how historical events and cultural movements shaped literary works. Studying these periods helps learners see how literature evolves over time and how writers respond to the issues and ideas of their societies.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this section, learners should be able to:
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Identify the major periods in the development of English literature.
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Describe the main characteristics and themes of each literary period.
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Recognize important writers and works associated with different periods.
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