Three Classic British Novels

About this course

The course explores Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist, Thomas Hardy’s Under the Greenwood Tree and Arthur Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet. Each novel is considered across two lessons, beginning with participants’ responses to its dramatic, engaging or difficult aspects. Tutor-led activities and group discussion then examine themes, storytelling, characterisation and plot structure alongside the historical, cultural and literary contexts of each work. The course also considers how these novels challenged contemporary views and came to be regarded as classics.

What you'll learn

• Analyse storytelling, style, plot structure and characterisation in three British novels.
• Examine themes including social issues, historical context, British culture and human nature.
• Interpret meanings and messages that may lie beneath the surface of a text.
• Assess how literary and cultural context can influence a work’s lasting reputation.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for beginner-level learners and does not require prior knowledge. Participation involves discussing personal responses, taking part in tutor-led activities and contributing to open literary debate with the group.

• No prior knowledge is needed.
• Participants are expected to read material ahead of the relevant lesson.
• The course includes shared discussion and open debate.

Before you go

• Students are encouraged to read the material being discussed before the relevant lesson.
• Bring a notebook and pen or pencil.