The Literature of Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a rich literary history. This course will provide a taster of the texts inspired by or created in the city of Edinburgh.  

Through consideration of Jackie Kay’s ‘Old Tongue’, Hannah Lavery’s ‘Scotland, You’re No Mine’ and Bernard MacLaverty’s ‘A Time to Dance’ we will think about how the city appears in the texts or how its influence may have shaped its creation. Where possible, we will look at contextual information to further explore the cultural distinction of Edinburgh’s literary heritage.

Any essential or recommended reading will be shared by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a device with an internet connection. 

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Demonstrate an understanding of a range of texts in the literary context of Edinburgh;
• Analyse literary texts by applying close reading techniques;
• Understand a sense of place in literature and how this can shape a literary text. 

No previous experience is required.  

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.  

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy. 

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is suitable for those with no prior experience of university study.  

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date