The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) does not explicitly mention English Literature as a separate subject in its syllabus. However, English literature can be chosen as an optional subject for the UPSC Civil Services Main Examination. The optional subjects carry 500 marks out of the total 1750 marks for the Main Examination.
If you choose English Literature as your optional subject, you will be required to study a set of prescribed texts and topics. The syllabus for English Literature optional paper generally covers a wide range of literary works from different periods and genres. Here is a general outline of the UPSC English Literature optional syllabus:
Paper-I:
- Section-A:
- Drama: Shakespeare and his contemporaries.
- Poetry: Chaucer to the Restoration.
- Prose: Bacon to Coleridge.
- Section-B:
- Drama: Early 20th Century Drama.
- Poetry: 19th and 20th Century British Poetry.
- Prose: 19th Century Prose and 20th Century Prose.
Paper-II:
- Section-A:
- Modernism and post-modernism.
- Contemporary literature.
- Section-B:
- Literary criticism: Rhetoric and Prosody.
- Comparative Literature.
It’s important to note that the specific texts and authors covered within these broad categories may vary, and the UPSC may update the syllabus from time to time. Aspirants are advised to refer to the official UPSC notification and syllabus for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Additionally, candidates should also be aware of the fact that the UPSC syllabus for the Civil Services Examination is subject to change, and it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest notifications and announcements from the UPSC.
