English

Language is the dress of thought – Samuel Johnson

Did you know that English is spoken on 6 continents by approximately 500 million people? In fact, it is second only to Mandarin and is the most taught language among people learning a second language! What is more, being highly proficient in a language such as English is linked to higher income brackets and promotions within the workplace.

Distribution of first-language native English speakers by country (Crystal 1997)

The Department of English offers a wide range of English modules in Literature and Language to first-, second- and foreign-language learners of English. Whether you opt for Literature or Language, or a combination of the two fields, one of our main aims is to foster both critical and creative thinking through the English language. As the quotation by Samuel Johnson reminds us, we think in terms of language. Think about this: without a knowledge of language, neither critical nor creative thinking can be enhanced. It is through language that we persuade, mislead, analyse, argue or create, for example.

If you would like to know more – and we know you do! – about the courses we offer, you will find us in the Flippie Groenewoud Building (Office 203 in Block B). We look forward to hearing from you in the near future.