We are surrounded by references to great literature, whether or not we recognize it. By interacting with these works, we not only better understand our world, but we build critical thinking skills and empathy for those around us. In Intro to American Literature, we will survey the greatest works of American fiction, providing special focus on literature that has shaped our cultural consciousness.

If you only have a few pages to share your voice, you make each word count. American history is filled with writers of remarkable talent, and countless have turned their pens to brilliant short fiction and essays. In this course, we’ll explore the great American poets, essayists, and short story writers. Students will be encouraged to read and respond critically—and have fun! Prerequisite: Intro to American Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken before or after American Literature III.

For centuries, writers have strived for their “great American novel.” In this course, we’ll delve into several of the country’s strongest works of long fiction, exploring novels and stage plays by Wharton, Cather, and other greats. Students will be encouraged to both read and respond critically (while having fun!). Prerequisite: Intro to American Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken after or before American Literature II.

This class conducts a final, broad overview of American literature which has shaped and continues to shape the nation’s history and culture. The first half of the class touches on poetry, explores notable essays and short stories, and revisits the stage. The second half of the class takes a closer look at variations of the American novel. Each author and text has been chosen for its impact on the literary world and the American experience as a  whole. 

Prerequisite: Intro to American Literature or equivalent experience. This class is best completed after American Literature II and American Literature III.

British literature holds the history of the English language, traced from the rhythms of Anglo-Saxon storytelling to the vivid poets of World War I. In this course, we’ll see language and history unfold as we delve into one era of British literature per week. While the majority of literature assigned will be English, introducing students to the largely-English touchstone literature for this grade level, we’ll also explore Scottish, Welsh, and Irish texts.  

Though great works of art, especially paintings in large cathedrals, are often the primary icons of the Renaissance, this movement also renewed many other aspects of European culture, including reading and literature. As the Renaissance Age began to fade, a thirst for knowledge and a search for new ideas was only just beginning. In this course, we will explore some of what came about during and in subsequent eras as we read works by several great British poets, essayists, and short story writers between the 1500s-1900s. Prerequisite: Intro to British Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken after or before British Literature III.

The novel and the stage flourished to success in Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland. With literary greats such as Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens, we don't have to look far to find an excellent British story or script. With so many incredible authors to consider, we will delve into several prominent works of British long fiction during this course, exploring novels and stage plays through reading and critical response. Prerequisite: Intro to British Literature or equivalent experience. This course may be taken after or before British Literature II.

The rockstar of his day, he wrote sitcoms, tragedies, teen romances, and history serials. He invented words, challenged conventions, and turned the entertainment world upside down—that’s right, we are talking about William Shakespeare. Throughout this course, you will be introduced to Shakespeare’s stage and language, receive an overview of early modern England, and interact with three plays. Assignments will include formal literary analysis papers as well as pieces intentionally crafted to improve comprehension. No prior experience with Shakespeare is necessary.