The Unreliable Narrator in Literature

Learners will read five texts which make use of an ‘unreliable narrator’, a character who recounts events in a way that is false, misleading, or otherwise untrustworthy.

This course provides an insight into the development of the unreliable narrator and how it has been used across a variety of novels. You will have the opportunity to consider the different ways in which writers can suggest unreliability as well as the structural and stylistic devices which support it.

View the novels that will be covered in this iteration of the course here.

You will require access to a device with an internet connection. 

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

• Assess literature based on close reading;
• Place literary works in a historical, social and political context;
• Discuss the various ways in which authors use an unreliable narrator to inject suspense or offer alternative viewpoints on events. 

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.