English Literature Optional Subject – UPSC

Embarking on the study of English Literature as an optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Exam is an enriching journey that transcends mere textual analysis. It delves into the vast tapestry of human experience woven by literary giants across centuries. By engaging with diverse genres, eras, and social contexts, you’ll develop critical thinking, analytical prowess, and a nuanced understanding of the world. This literary exploration equips you not only to excel in the exam but also to become a well-rounded, empathetic leader with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human nature and society.

English Paper 1

Section – A

1. William Shakespeare: King Lear and The Tempest.
2. John Donne. The following poems :
   –Canonization;
   –Death be not proud;
   –The Good Morrow;
   –On his Mistress going to bed;
   –The Relic;
3. John Milton: Paradise Lost, I, II, IV, IX.
4. Alexander Pope. The Rape of the Lock.
5. William Wordsworth. The following poems :
   – Ode on Intimations of Immortality.
   – Tintern Abbey.
   – Three years she grew.
   – She dwelt among untrodden ways.
   – Michael.
   – Resolution and Independence.
   – The World is too much with us.
   – Milton, thou shouldst be living at this hour.
   – Upon Westminster Bridge.
6. Alfred Tennyson : In Memoriam.
7. Henrik Ibsen : A Doll’s House

Section – B

1. Jonathan Swift, Gulliver’s Travels.
2. Jane Austen. Pride and Prejudice.
3. Henry Fielding. Tom Jones.
4. Charles Dickens. Hard Times.
5. George Eliot. The Mill on the Floss.
6. Thomas Hardy. Tess of the d’Urbervilles.
7. Mark Twain. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

English Paper – 2

Section – A

1. William Butler Yeats. The following poems :
   – Easter 1916.
   – The Second Coming.
   – A Prayer for my daughter.
   – Sailing to Byzantium.
   – The Tower.
   – Among School Children.
   – Leda and the Swan.
   – Meru.
   – Lapis Lazuli.
   – The Second Coming.
   – Byzantium.
2. T.S. Eliot. The following poems :
   – The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock.
   – Journey of the Magi.
   – Burnt Norton.
3. W.H. Auden. The following poems :
   – Partition
   – Musee des Beaux Arts– In Memory of W.B. Yeats
   • – Lay your sleeping head, my love
   • – The Unknown Citizen
   • – Consider
   • – Mundus Et Infans
   • – The Shield of Achilles
   • – September 1, 1939
   • – Petition
4. John Osborne : Look Back in Anger.
5. Samuel Beckett. Waiting for Godot.
6. Philip Larkin. The following poems :
   – Next
   – Please
   – Deceptions
   – Afternoons
   – Days
   – Mr. Bleaney
7. A.K. Ramanujan. The following poems :
   – Looking for a Cousin on a Swing
   – A River
   – Of Mothers, among other Things
   – Love Poem for a Wife 1
   – Small-Scale Reflections on a Great House
   – Obituary

(All these poems are available in the anthology Ten Twentieth Century Indian Poets, edited by R. Parthasarthy, published by Oxford University Press, New Delhi).

Section – B

1. Joseph Conrad. Lord Jim.
2. James Joyce. Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man.
3. D.H. Lawrence. Sons and Lovers.
4. E.M. Forster. A Passage to India.
5. Virginia Woolf. Mrs. Dalloway.
6. Raja Rao. Kanthapura.
7. V.S. Naipaul. A House for Mr. Biswas.

FAQs on English Literature Optional Subject – UPSC

1. Is English Literature a good choice for UPSC Optional?

Ans: English Literature can be a strong optional subject for UPSC if you have a genuine interest and strong analytical skills. It hones critical thinking, communication, and analytical writing, all valuable assets in the UPSC exam. However, it requires extensive reading and in-depth understanding of literary movements and theories.

2. What is the syllabus for English Literature Optional?

Ans: The syllabus covers a broad range of English literature, from medieval literature to 20th-century works. It includes British, American, and Indian writing in various forms like poetry, prose, drama, and literary theory. You can find the detailed syllabus on the UPSC website https://upsc.gov.in/examinations/revised-syllabus-scheme.

3. How to prepare for English Literature Optional?

Ans: Develop a strong foundation by reading prescribed texts thoroughly. Practice close reading and analyzing literary devices and themes. Familiarize yourself with literary theory and criticism. Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam format and marking scheme. Consider coaching or study materials for guidance.

4. Are there any benefits to choosing English Literature Optional?

Ans: Beyond subject-specific knowledge, English Literature strengthens your overall writing and communication skills. Analyzing literature fosters critical thinking and the ability to construct well-structured arguments. These skills are crucial for success in General Studies papers as well.

5. How much time is needed to prepare for English Literature Optional?

Ans: Ideally, dedicated preparation should start at least a year before the exam. However, the actual time needed depends on your existing knowledge and comfort level with the subject. Consistent and focused study is key.

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