Course overview

This course will explore a variety of poets and poems from the 1930s, a vital and challenging period in British and Irish poetry, as well as assessing the influence these poets and literary developments during this era had on later writers. We will read and assess notable poets and poems from both the 1930s and the contemporary poetic sphere in order to build some important connections.

Course description

On this online 10-week course we will read, explore and enjoy some notable works by a selection of significant contemporary poets emerging in both Britain and Ireland during an important period in the 1930s; we will consider figures such as W.H. Auden and Louis MacNeice, as well as the work of more contemporary poets that they influenced, such as Seamus Heaney. We will look at and think through a couple of key poets and poems each week in relation to the overall theme. In doing so, we will create some connections between form, ideas/subject matter and the life of each poet. Alongside close reading of the chosen poems we will engage with literary criticism on each poet, as well as poetry, form and poetics generally, exploring the backgrounds of each writer and their unique approach to the art of poetry, which should set the poems in their context and within the poet's life and career. Through this we will also look to understand how a particular sense of voice is established and created within the works we encounter.

What financial support is available?

We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.

What other support is available?

All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.

Share this page:

Need more information?

Need help? Complete our form and our friendly Support Services team will be back in touch.

Course contact
I am most interested in (tick all that apply)

How do we use the information we gather from you?
Please see our privacy policy.