This course introduces students to important works of contemporary English fiction. We will read selected novels closely and discuss how they reflect modern concerns such as identity, culture, history, politics, and ethics. The main goal of the seminar is to help students become a more careful and independent reader—someone who can analyze literary techniques, recognize major themes, and form thoughtful interpretations.
As the course progresses, our discussions will gradually connect literary analysis to academic writing. Students will learn how to turn their reading responses into focused research questions, and how to shape those questions into clear thesis statements. We will also cover the basics of research methods and how to find and use scholarly sources effectively.