The purpose of English 250 is to groom English majors and minors for advanced studies in literature. To achieve that goal, we will cover a wide range of material during the semester. We will review fundamentals such as genre boundaries, literary terms, and research methods. We will also address more advanced subject matter, including exploring the major schools of literary analysis and adapting their methods to various texts. Students will receive coaching not only in the process of analysis but also in methods for articulating that analysis in class discussion and on written assignments. To help make the class both dynamic and enjoyable, it is imperative that students prepare reading and written assignments carefully and come to class ready to begin talking about and asking questions of the texts. Formal requirements will include a few short essays, a research project, and co-facilitation of discussion.