LITERATURE. LANGUAGE. RHETORIC.

Welcome to the Department of English

We offer students the opportunity to study the properties and powers of language—the fundamental means by which we communicate our values, our ideals and vision.

English is not just about the rhetorical and creative aspects of literature. It’s about examining history, culture, psychology, sociology, philosophy and the human condition to determine what a text means in the context of when and where it was written, and how it relates to us today. Courses in the fundamentals of the three main literary genres, poetry, prose and drama, prepare students for the close study of major works and periods of literature from the British, American, Canadian and Post-Colonial traditions. In addition, the Department offers a variety of special courses in Rhetoric, the history of language, literary theory, gender, children’s literature and creative writing. At the senior level, there are more intensive courses concentrating on specific topics such as particular authors. These are conducted in small seminar classes which stimulate open and intensive discussion between students and instructor.

Department Highlights

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Winter 2025 Course Offering - ENGL3800A

How can creative writing help us understand the world around us?  Register in ENGL3800A (Creative Writing) to find out.

ENGL3800A (Creative Writing)
Instructor:  Dr. David Kootnikoff
TR 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. (CRN: 11687)

Prerequisite(s):  ENGL2880

How can creative writing help us understand the world around us? What makes a writer "a great enchanter"? In Creative Writing (ENGL3800), "Storytellers and Enchanters," we will explore a wide range of writing styles and you will have the opportunity to apply your skills in a variety of contexts. Students will also encounter a diversity of print texts and other media as they work towards developing a portfolio and sharing their work in a supportive and inclusive setting.

Contact Dr. David Kootnikoff (david.kootnikoff@uleth.ca) for course information.

Hallow-Reads: A Halloween Symposium

This October 31st, join a multidisciplinary celebration of Halloween with faculty from English, Academic Writing, Liberal Education, History and more. Hallow-Reads: A Halloween Symposium features lightning talks on all things Halloween-from horror to puppets to werewolves to poetry. Faculty or students interested in giving a lightning talk on a ‘Halloween’ topic (broadly construed) can contact Dr. Natasha Rebry at natasha.rebry@uleth.ca.

Costumes are encouraged and yes, there will be candy (while supplies last!).

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Chasing the Muse: A Short Story Slam

Students will have approximately 8 hours to complete a short story based on a theme (to be provided on the day). Winner will be announced at the English Department's Open Mic in December 2024.

Theme: It's a Surprise!
When: Friday, November 1, 2024
Time: 4:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Where: Andy's Place (AH-100)

Limited spaces available, so if interested register early by sending an e-mail to david.kootnikoff@uleth.ca

The Department notes, with the deepest respect, the passing of Professor John Woods in August 2024. Professor Woods served as External Chair of the Department of English from 1996 until 2006. He provided, through his firm guidance and direction, crucial stability and control during this important period of transition.

Dr. Goldie Mortentaler wins prestigious award

Congratulations to Dr. Goldie Morgentaler.

Dr. Goldie Morgentaler was one of seven recipients of The Canadian Jewish Literary Awards for 2024.  She won this award for her translation of "In the Land of the Postscript: The Complete Short Stories of Chava Rosenfarb".  This collection makes available for the first time a complete selection of Chava Rosenfarb's short tories in English (translated from Yiddish).

Dr. Goldie Morgentaler is Professor Emerita of English Literature at the University of Lethbridge.

Open Mic Sessions

Our Open Mic Session on Friday, September 13th was a huge success. See below for upcoming date. Note: Open Mic sessions will run from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. (AH100).

Friday, October 11, 2024

Dr. David Kootnikoff, Instructor of English, Faculty of Arts & Science

Dr. David Kootnikoff is a dedicated scholar who earned three master's before completing a doctoral degree. He has taught and worked as a journalist in Japan and Hong Kong.
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Shining Student Nicola Alvarez

Nicola Alvarez credits professors for pushing her toward a level of success she had never dreamed of and a path that includes research and work in the realm of emerging Filipino literature and Filipino …
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Shining Graduate Cody Chipman

Having just accepted his first teaching position directly out of university, Cody Chipman (BA/BEd '24) attributes much of his success to his loved ones and support network. He now prepares to embark …
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Career Bridge: Centre for Work-Integrated Learning and Career Development

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Career Bridge

Put Your Knowledge to Work

Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with research projects on campus or by testing your knowledge in a real-life work setting, we can help! The University of Lethbridge is proud to offer you an exceptional opportunity to explore professional development through academic programs and services designed to give you a competitive edge in a fast-changing world.

You have a bright future — experience it via Career Bridge at uLethbridge!

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