Overview

Literature and historical study together offer a profound lens through which to understand human experience, societal transformation, and cultural memory over time. Studying the BA (Hons) English Literature and History at Lancaster University allows students to explore the powerful intersection between historical events and the imaginative works that reflect, critique, or shape them. The dual-subject structure provides a balanced curriculum where analytical textual critique directly informs historical investigation and contextual interpretation. Learners engage with primary historical records alongside poetry, prose, and drama, gaining deep insights into diverse eras ranging from the medieval world to the contemporary global landscape. Supported by active researchers, world-class library collections, and vibrant academic research centers, the program fosters a rigorous interdisciplinary learning environment. This degree is ideal for curious minds, keen researchers, and skilled communicators who wish to build exceptional skills in source analysis, critical argument, historical contextualization, and persuasive writing.

What You'll Learn

Intersections between literary movements and major historical events across medieval, early modern, and contemporary eras

Methods of analyzing primary historical sources, archival documents, and diverse literary texts side by side

Critical theories addressing historiography, postcolonialism, gender history, political thought, and cultural identity

Historical developments in global, national, and local contexts from ancient societies through to the modern world

Evolution of literary genres including historical fiction, political poetry, period drama, and life writing

Research methodologies required to design, conduct, and present independent historical and literary projects

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will possess a comprehensive grasp of how literary texts both reflect and actively influence historical developments, social structures, and cultural identities. Students acquire the ability to critically evaluate diverse primary materials—from archival manuscripts and historical records to novels, plays, and poetry—using appropriate theoretical and methodological tools. Through rigorous comparative study, learners master the skill of constructing evidence-based, persuasive arguments that seamlessly integrate literary analysis with deep historical context. Hands-on research projects and seminar debate equip students with refined abilities in independent information retrieval, source criticism, and articulate oral and written communication. Ultimately, graduates are prepared to synthesize interdisciplinary perspectives and specialize in fields such as heritage management, archival research, publishing, cultural journalism, or postgraduate academic research.