English Literature and History

Explore literature and history across 1,500 years, examining ideas that shape society and enhancing your studies with global or industry opportunities. International students that have already submitted a UCAS application should apply via our Clearing System. English Literature and History is a diverse and stimulating joint honours degree that explores the past and its cultural representations across more than 1,500 years.

You will study historical events and literary texts side by side, gaining insight into how stories, ideas, and experiences shape societies across time. Through literature ranging from the medieval period to the present day, and historical study that spans global and local perspectives, you will explore themes such as identity, gender, race, nationhood, culture, and the environment. This combined approach helps you understand how people have interpreted and recorded their world, and how those interpretations continue to shape contemporary debate.

The degree balances structure with flexibility, allowing you to build a strong foundation in both subjects while tailoring your studies to the themes and periods that interest you the most. You will develop valuable skills in critical thinking, research, communication, and analysis, working with a range of materials and producing outputs such as essays, archival research, creative writing, blogs, and zine-making.