A Note on the Teaching of 'English Language and Literature': With Some Suggestions (Classic Reprint) - Hardcover

R. B. McKerrow

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0656804084 ISBN 13: 9780656804085

Publisher: Forgotten Books, 2018

Synopsis

Rethinking how English is taught and learned, with clear guidance for practical improvement.

This pamphlet argues that English, as a subject, should train the mind and imagination as deeply as the classics do, and it offers a concrete plan to make that aim a reality for schools and universities.

Written as a concise, thoughtful guide, it examines what the study of English can and should achieve. It argues for a two-part course, a broad historical grounding, and focused study of representative periods and texts. It also emphasizes the importance of bibliographical knowledge, textual criticism, and understanding how manuscripts and printing shape what we read. The author frames a practical path for teachers to shift from memorized facts to genuine language and literature training that remains relevant beyond exams.

• Understand the core aim of English education and how it compares to classical study.
• Learn the proposed two-stage course: broad history and focused, period-specific study.
• Discover how to integrate textual criticism and bibliographical insight into instruction.
• See guidance on selecting periods, balancing literature with language study, and planning for long-term learning.

Ideal for teachers, student-teachers, and education-minded readers who want a practical, historically informed view of teaching English today.

Edition details

• Publisher: Forgotten Books
• Publication date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0656804084
• ISBN 13: 9780656804085
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 44