English literature covers a broad range of literatures written in the English language, from Chaucer to the present day. The aim of the course is to help students acquire a thorough knowledge of the history of differing literatures while also enabling them to develop a sophisticated critical consciousness and an awareness of critical and cultural theory.

The skills of English graduates are much in demand from employers, especially in journalism, broadcasting, marketing, retail and business management, publishing and teaching, and graduates from English often gain professional qualifications in disciplines as diverse as law and public administration. The four-year degree provides an outstanding platform for postgraduate study in English, and usually about 30% of our graduates go on to read for a higher degree in English (Master's degree, PhD degree). Many well-known creative writers are Trinity English graduates, including Eavan Boland, Deirdre Madden, Michael Longley, Derek Mahon, Brendan Kennelly and Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin.