Twentieth-Century Women’s Novels

The 20th century saw massive changes in almost every sphere of life. In the US, Civil Rights entered the public discourse, and the Harlem Renaissance galvanized Modernism. In Europe, women’s rights came to the forefront of public policy and culture. Elsewhere, in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, the joy of liberation from colonial rule quickly soured into the difficulties of postcolonial societies. Throughout this tumultuous century, the English novel evolved in powerful and exciting ways. This evolution can be glimpsed most vividly in the novels written and published by women writers. This NPTEL course will introduce learners to some of the most powerful writing by women novelists from all over the world. Students will read novels by African, African-American, British, American, Jamaican, Irish women writers. The above selection features texts published from almost every key decade of the twentieth century. Completing this course will equip students with two key knowledge sets: a literary history of 20th century English prose fiction, and feminist literary criticism.

This course will appeal to the following audiences:

1. Individuals engaged in the formal study of English literature at the UG, PG, and Ph.D level.

2. Individuals pursuing their study of English Literature from their own interest.

3. General readers who have read classic works of English literature on their own, and wish to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the history, context, and theory of women's writings in the twentieth century.

4. Any young professional who would like to develop their profile, employability, and soft skills by learning the art of close reading, critical thinking, and empathetic imagination.

All industries value the following skills, that accrue from the study of literature, and writing about literature: