Key facts
UNE unit code: ENGL102
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Literature has long been a conduit for ideas and a reflection of society’s values.
In this unit you will focus on the relationship between literature and large social and historical movements. The unit draws on texts from the 19th to the 21st centuries and will equip you with a versatile critical toolkit.
With these texts and tools, you will analyse literature as a form of social and political expression and examine the relationship between fiction and theory. You will also have the opportunity to identify how novels and poems engage with, resist and/or inspire cultural change.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
There are no requisites for this unit.
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate knowledge of the ways in which literary texts engage with their social and political contexts;
- identify and evaluate different critical approaches to the study of literary texts, including approaches based on cultural, geographic and historical contexts;
- demonstrate knowledge of key terms and conventions in English literary studies; and
- apply reading, writing and research skills in the critical interpretation of literary texts.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1: Quiz | Yes | 15% | All offerings | Online quiz No. Words: 500 (equivalent) |
| Assessment 2: Written Assessment | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Written assessment: critical investigation. No. Words: 1500 |
| Assessment 3: Portfolio with Oral Verification - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Portfolio with oral verification. Collection of written tasks, accompanied by reflective commentary and oral presentation (ten-minutes (approx.)). Students must pass the Assurance Task in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Things Fall Apart
ISBN: 9780141186887
Achebe, C., Penguin UK 2002
Text refers to: All offerings
Heart of Darkness
ISBN: 9780141199788
Conrad, J., Penguin Classics 2012
Text refers to: All offerings
Wuthering Heights
ISBN: 9780198834786
Bronte, E., Oxford University Press 2nd ed. 2020
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
