The Most Challenging Subjects for English Majors

The academic journey of an English major can be both rewarding and daunting. Several subjects are commonly considered particularly challenging, each requiring distinct skills and a deep understanding of theoretical and practical aspects. This article explores the most demanding areas for English majors, including Literary Theory, Critical Analysis, Creative Writing, Historical Contexts, and Advanced Composition. Additionally, personal experiences of an English major from Loyola Marymount University provide insights into the struggles faced by students.

Literary Theory: Understanding Abstract Frameworks

Literary Theory involves mastering a range of theoretical frameworks such as structuralism, post-structuralism, feminism, and Marxism. These theories offer ways to interpret and analyze textual elements, but they can be highly abstract and complex. Students must learn to apply these frameworks to texts, often requiring a significant shift in thinking from more straightforward literary analysis.

Critical Analysis: Deep Analytical Skills and Contextual Understanding

Critical Analysis tasks students with writing essays that demand deep analytical skills and a thorough understanding of context, style, and authorial intent. This process can be challenging, especially for students who may struggle with forming coherent arguments and maintaining a strong focus on the text.

Creative Writing: Balancing Originality and Self-Critique

Creative Writing is a double-edged sword. While some students find it enjoyable, the pressure to produce original and polished work can be overwhelming. Additionally, the requirement for self-critique and the need to constantly improve one's writing can make the creative process both frustrating and rewarding.

Historical Contexts: Navigating Complex Eras and Cultures

Historical Contexts involves understanding the socio-political contexts of literature, which can be intricate, especially when dealing with texts from different eras and global cultures. Compiling and applying this contextual knowledge requires extensive research and a broadened perspective on history.

Advanced Composition: Mastering Writing Styles and Formats

Advanced Composition is a rigorous process that involves mastering various writing styles and formats. Students must develop a deep understanding of their audience and the purpose of their writing, which can be a complex and time-consuming endeavor. This often means revising and refining work to meet the specific needs of the reader.

Personal Experience: A Jesuit Education at Loyola Marymount

I pursued an English major at Loyola Marymount University, a Jesuit institution. The most challenging classes were those that required significant writing and critical analysis. Writing was both a joy and a formidable task. I initially enjoyed reading great writing but found myself at a loss when it came to producing something of similar quality. The process of understanding why I enjoyed certain texts and how to articulate that enjoyment was a transformative journey.

Another particularly traumatic experience was taking my Rhetoric class. I assumed I had a strong grasp of writing and argument, but the material covered was surprisingly rooted in classical texts, primarily those written in Latin by Cicero. The realization that no major advancements had been added to Cicero's teachings in nearly 2000 years was both disheartening and enlightening. This class pushed me to refine my understanding of rhetoric and argumentation.

Ultimately, the difficulties faced in these subjects depend on a student's personal interests and skills. Each challenge offers a unique opportunity for growth and development as an English major.