Study of English is the study of Literature in English and the study of the English Language. With the growing popularity of English all over the world, and it becoming the mode of communication and dissemination of information, the study of English has become quite essential. In the broad sense English studies involve the study of literature in English from all countries of the world, the study of linguistics and socio-linguistics. There are dedicated colleges, universities and study centres for research, teaching and communication in English.
What purpose does the study of English have? English enriches us. It lets us dream and provides wings to thoughts. Not only fiction, it is also the study of real life events and personalities. It is a soul touching, mesmerising and thought provoking study. Have you ever wondered why students who take up English at their graduation level, go on to do Masters, M. Phil and even PhD in English. It is because it is addictive and once you are in its ambit, you cannot escape. English provides the widest range of study material and literature. Writers who existed long ago and wrote in in other languages, their works are available to us too.
The study of English comprises of various forms. We study English literature in the form of novel, poetry, drama, short story, novella, essays and biographies. They are all equally significant, require equal talent, not easy to compose, and definitely not easy to study and interpret. Each has its unique specialty, purpose and trait.
The various forms can be further classified on the basis of genre. Genre refers to the style of writing and purpose of presentation. It captures the essence of the piece of literature. The genres are the epic, lyric, drama, romance, satire, tragedy, comedy, tragic-comedy, romantic-comedy and various other combinations of two or more of these categories.
The study of English cannot be forced upon you. Only those really interested and passionate, are able to understand the intricacies and get an in depth knowledge about the subject. It is suggested that we should read what interests us, and not what is recommended and liked by others. Everyone has a different liking and view, and what we like is reflected by it. Also those of us who are motivated to study literature in English should improve our vocabulary. It promotes better understanding, clarity and interpretation of the written word. And we should read, read, and read more. And continue to read avidly, as much as we can, and aim to read all the books ever written. A mammoth task, but our target should be thus.
Those who study English will confirm the significance of its study. It can never be a dull boring and strenuous exercise. The only requirement is to keep our minds open to ideas, think, reflect and interpret. The liberty granted by literature in English is one with no comparison.
