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English Language C1: Language and Literature
English Language and Literature, C1
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:06:30
Abstract
The course is suitable for students who already possess the language skills defined in level C1 of the Council of Europe Global Scale. The teaching units focus on the reading and discussion of literary texts, requiring active participation and commitment to the various forms of human experience.
Objective
We shall read and discuss a selection of literary texts, such as poems, short stories and samples from classical and contemporary fiction, especially novels. A close and sensitive reading will sharpen our awareness of the author's intention and artistic devices to define the fascinating interplay between narrator, reader and literary work. With this purpose in mind we shall look at the verbal organisation of texts and its effects on meaning. We shall describe the relationship between form and content, trace symbols, metaphors and other rhetorical devices of the writer, look at style, syntax and vocabulary. Vocabulary study will include that of the individual texts but also the language we need to describe and discuss these texts.
Content
Topics: Since language can be compared to a window through which we regard fictional life, observe and criticise characters and their actions and the nature of their values, there will be ample opportunity for oral participation. Hence our topics will embrace "fictional character and action", "motive, action and consequence", "relationships and human values", "the reader's response" and many other aspects, as stimulated by the specific nature of the text. The ultimate goal of this course is to increase our understanding and appreciation of literary forms and to enhance our pleasure of reading. We shall read and discuss a selection of literary texts, such as poems, short stories and samples from classical and contemporary fiction, especially novels. A close and sensitive reading will sharpen our awareness of the author's intention and artistic devices to define the fascinating interplay between narrator, reader and literary work. With this purpose in mind we shall look at the verbal organisation of texts and its effects on meaning. We shall describe the relationship between form and content, trace symbols, metaphors and other rhetorical devices of the writer, look at style, syntax and vocabulary. Vocabulary study will include that of the individual texts but also the language we need to describe and discuss these texts.
Resources
Lecture Notes
no script
Literature
Materials: Texts and literary samples for discussion will be supplied every week. Some of the text materials can be downloaded from the web. Additional handouts on specific aspects of grammar and/or use of English will be supplied if necessary. A small fee will be charged to cover the costs of text materials and photocopies. Other requirements: All participants will be expected to: attend regularly throughout the semester; participate actively in discussions, group work and pair work; do at least 2 hours' work per week at home, including reading and writing; complete a written test at the end of the course; Important note: The course is only open to students who register on-line via the Sprachenzentrum website (from 18 September to 6 October 2006) and who receive on-line confirmation that they have been accepted on this course. No other participants can be admitted. Additional requirements for Bachelor students and those wo wish to receive ETH/D-GESS Credit Points or Testate will be specified in the first lesson of the WS.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| exercise | English Language and Literature, C1 |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Language Centre ETH/Uni (Please be advised that your online-registration at the language centre has to be simultaneous ( ) as otherwise your registration for the course will not be valid. External guest auditors are requested to register directly at the language center)
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