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Literature Dissertation Topics

Published by Carmen Troy at January 9th, 2023 , Revised On April 16, 2024

Introduction

A literature dissertation aims to contextualise themes, ideas, and interests that have grabbed a reader’s interest and attention, giving them a more profound meaning through the movement of time within and outside cultures.

Literature is a comprehensive knowledge of other writers’ views, and to understand them, a student must perform extensive reading and research. A writer coveys their thoughts and ideas through their literary works, including the views and opinions of writers ranging from topics on philosophy , religious preferences, sociology , academics, and psychology .

To help you get started with brainstorming for literature topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest topics that can be used for writing your literature dissertation.

These topics have been developed by PhD qualified writers of our team , so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting  a brief research proposal  from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an  introduction  to the topic,  research question ,  aim and objectives ,  literature review  along with the proposed  methodology  of research to be conducted.  Let us know  if you need any help in getting started.

Check our  dissertation examples  to get an idea of  how to structure your dissertation .

Review the full list of  dissertation topics for here.

2024 Literature Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: impact of the second language barrier on the social integration of immigrants- a case of chinese nationals migrating to the uk.

Research Aim: This research purposes an analysis to show the impact of the second language barrier on the social integration of Chinese immigrants in the UK. It will analyze how this barrier affects various segments of their lives by limiting their social interactions. Moreover, it will identify ways (language courses, communal support, financial support, etc.) through which government and civil society help these immigrants to overcome this barrier to make them feel inclusive in the UK and play a part in the economy.

Topic 2: The Power of the Writer’s Imagination- A Study Finding the Role of Writer Imagination in the Social Revolution in 19th-Century Europe

Research Aim: This study intends to identify the role of the writer’s imagination in the social revolution in 19 th century Europe. It will show how writers’ imagination is reflected in their writings and how it affects ordinary individuals’ mindsets. It will assess the writings of various authors during the 19 th -century social revolution when Europe replaced the monarchy with democracy. It will show the language used by the authors and its effect on the individuals’ will to achieve democracy.

Topic 3: How does an Accent Develop? An Exploratory Analysis Finding Factors Shaped Various English Accents in the World- A Case of America, Australia, and India

Research Aim: This research will analyze how an accent develops when a language is imported from one region to the other. It will identify how various factors such as culture, norms, politics, religion, etc., affect accent development. And to show this effect, this research will show how the English accent changed when it came to America, Australia, and India. Moreover, it will indicate whether social resistance in these areas affected the accent or was readily accepted.

Topic 4: “Gender Pronouns and their Usage” a New Debate in the Social Linguistics Literature- A Systematic Review of the Past and Present Debates

Research Aim: This study sheds light on a relatively new debate in politics, sociology, and linguistics, which is how to correctly use gender pronouns in all of these contexts. Therefore, this study will explore these areas, but the main focus will be on linguistics. It will review various theories and frameworks in linguistics to show multiple old and new debates on the subject matter. Moreover, a systematic review will determine the correct usage of gender pronouns.

Topic 5: Are Men Portrayed Better in the English Literature? A Feminist Critique of the Old English Literature

Research Aim: This research will analyze whether men are portrayed better in English literature through a feminist lens. It will assess a different kind of English literature, such as poems, essays, novels, etc., to show whether men are portrayed better than women in various contexts. Moreover, it will analyze multiple classical and modern-day writers to see how they use different male and female characters in their literature. Lastly, it will add a feminist perspective on the subject matter by introducing the feminist theory and its portrayal of men and women.

Covid-19 Literature Research Topics

Topic 1: the scientific literature of coronavirus pandemic.

Research Aim: This study will review the scientific literature of Coronavirus pandemic

Topic 2: Literature and the future world after Coronavirus.

Research Aim: This study will reveal the world’s literature predictions after the pandemic.

Topic 3: Coronavirus is a trending topic among the media, writers, and publishers

Research Aim: Covid-19 has disrupted every sector’s health care system and economy. Apart from this, the topic of the Coronavirus has become trending everywhere. This study will highlight whether the information provided about COVID-19 by all the sources is authentic? What kind of misleading information is presented?

Literature Dissertation Topics for 2023

Topic 1: dependence of humans on computers.

Research Aim: This research aims to study the dependence of humans on the computer, its advantages and disadvantages.

Topic 2: Whether or not the death penalty is effective in the current era?

Research Aim: This research aims to identify whether the death penalty is effective in the current era.

Topic 3: Fashion Industry and its impact on people's upward and downward social perception

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the impact on people’s upward and downward social perception

Topic 4: Communication gaps in families due to the emergence of social media

Research Aim: This research aims to address the communication gaps in families due to the emergence of social media and suggest possible ways to overcome them.

Topic 5: Employment and overtime working hours- a comparative study

Research Aim: This research aims to measure the disadvantages of overtime working hours of employees.

Topic 6: Machine translators Vs. human translators

Research Aim: This research aims to conduct a comparative study of machine translators and human translators

Topic 7: Freelancing Vs 9 to 5 jobs- a comparative study

Research Aim: This research aims to compare freelancing jobs with 9 to 5 jobs.

More Literature Dissertation Topics for 2024

Topic 1: the effects of everyday use of digital media on youth in the uk..

Research Aim: Digital media is a normal part of a person’s life. In this research, the aim is to examine and analyse; how young people between the ages of 15-25 in the UK engage with digital media. The study includes the amount of time interaction occurs and the role of time-space, time elasticities, and online/offline intersections.

Topic 2: Critical analysis of the teenager protagonist in “The Room on the Roof” written by Ruskin Bond.

Research Aim: Many Indian writers and children’s book authors regard Ruskin Bond as an icon. This research will systematically study the alienated teenage protagonist in Ruskin’s “The Room on the Roof” and how Ruskin evolved the character gradually throughout the novel. The way Ruskin used this protagonist to reflect his feelings and convey them to the reader.

Topic 3: Promotion of women empowerment through mass media in Nepal.

Research Aim: The primary purpose of this study is to analyse the role of mass media, including audio, print, and audio-visual, in the empowerment of women in the Nepal region. It also discusses the development of mass media in Nepal and spreading awareness of women’s empowerment.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service , which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service !

Seventeenth and Eighteenth-Century Literature Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: eighteenth-century british literature..

Research Aim: This study aims to study the evolution of modern British literature compared to eighteenth-century literature. This research will focus on the genre of comedy only. The research will discuss the causes of laughter in the eighteenth century compared to things that cause laughter in modern times.

Topic 5: A systematic study of Chaucer’s Miller’s tale.

Research Aim: This research aims to take a closer look at Chaucer’s heavily censored story, “The Miller’s Tale.” It seeks to look at why “The Miller’s Tale” is criticised and categorised as obscene and unfit for a general read. The study will analyse the writer’s writing style, language, and method for the research paper.

Topic 3: Understanding 17th-century English culture using a model of Francis Bacon’s idea.

Research Aim: This research aims to take a more in-depth look into Francis Bacon’s idea of modern economic development. To conduct the study, machine learning processes will be implemented to examine Francis’s ideas and their implementations in contemporary times.

Topic 4: The relation between early 18th-century English plays and The emerging financial market.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the relationship between eighteenth-century plays and a flourishing financial market. Most theatrical plays were written and performed in the middle of the 1720s, but writing carried out contributed to the financial market.

Topic 5: Issues of climate change used in early English literature: Shakespeare’s View of the sky.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse climate change’s impact on early English writings. Climatic issues were faced even in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, providing writers with another topic to add to their published work. This research will focus on the work of Shakespeare, in which he included the specifics of climate change.

Also Read: Medicine and Nursing Dissertation Topics Free

Nineteenth-Century Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: impact of nineteenth-century gothic vampire literature on female members of the gothic subculture..

Research Aim: This research will look at the introduction of gothic vampire literature and its impact on female members of the gothic subculture. It includes a complete analysis of writing style and the impression it left of the female readers’.

Topic 2: Women theatre managers and the theatre in the late nineteenth century.

Research Aim: This research aims to view the impact on theatres under the management of women theatre managers. The improvement to theatre shows, along with the hardships faced by some managers, is discussed. The proposed study analyses the categories of theatre plays.

Topic 3: The history of American literature.

Research Aim: This research aims to give a brief history of American literature’s development and evolution throughout the centuries. The timeline begins from the early 15th century to the late 19th century. Word variations, sentence structures, grammar, and written impressions will be analysed.

Topic 4: “New women” concept in the novels of Victorian age English writers.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse women’s position in the early nineteenth and how later Victorian writers used their work to give women a new identity. The method employed by these writers who wrote from a feminist point of view will also be discussed.

Topic 5: Discussing the role of the writer in their own story.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the form in which the writer reveals their presence to the reader. The methods can be achieved directly or use the characters to replace themselves in the narrative. The study observes the phrases, vocabulary, and situations the writer uses to narrate.

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Twentieth Century Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: effect of gender association in modern literature..

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the issue of gender association in twentieth-century literature. Currently, male characters are described in a more masculine term than before in comparison to female counterparts. This research will also explore the possible approach of the possible characterisation of the two genders.

Topic 2: Feminism and literature.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the impacts of feminism on modern English literature quality. The study will look into the ideology of feminism and how feminist thoughts impact the readers’ view.

Topic 3: Modern literature based on climate change and eco-themes.

Research Aim: This research will study the various works of writers who tackled climate change and other eco-themes in their work. The study discusses the way they portrayed the item along with their views on preventing climate change. Modern work is compared to the work of previous writers who wrote about climate change.

Topic 4: How are fathers portrayed in modern literature?

Research Aim: This research will study the role of fathers in modern literature. The way the father character is portrayed in recent times has changed compared to writing in the early centuries. This research will look into the evolution of the father figure over time.

Topic 5: Literature for Asian American children.

Research Aim: This research will examine the fusion of classic American literature and Asian literature for children. The different genera’s that are produced and the style of writing will be analysed.

Also Read: Free Law Dissertation Topics

Children’s Literature Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: the influence of the intersection of race and bullying in children’s books..

Research Aim: This research will analyse the literature made for children from 2015 to 2019 in which the intersection between race and bullying is made. The study will evaluate the impact of literature read by a child in which there is bullying. Various picture books are analysed to observe the influence of racism on bullying.

Topic 2: Diversity of culture in children’s literature.

Research Aim: This research will observe the influence of the various cultural aspects of children’s books. The study will analyse the impact of mixed cultures on literature in a community and how it affects children’s mindsets from a young age.

Topic 3: The use of literature to shape a child's mind.

Research Aim: This research will analyse the effects of literature on a child’s mind. Behaviour, intelligence, and interactions between children and their age fellows are to be observed. A child’s behaviour with adults will also be analysed.

Topic 4: Evolution of children's literature.

Research Aim: This research will explore the change in children’s literature trends. This research will compare the literary work from the mid-nineteen century with modern-day children’s books. Differences in vocabulary, sentence structure, and mode of storytelling will be examined.

Topic 5: Racial discrimination in “the cat in the hat” impacts children’s racial views.

Research Aim: This research will take an in-depth analysis of the children’s story, “The Cat in the Hat,” to observe if it has any racial remarks which cause an increase in racism among children. The words used and the pictures found on the page will be thoroughly analysed, and their impact on the children reading it.

Topic 6: Measuring the nature of a child’s early composing.

Research Aim: This research will analyse the development of a child’s writing skills based on the type of books they read. The book’s genera, vocabulary, and the writing style of the child’s preferred book will be considered.

Topic 7: Use of a classroom to incorporate multicultural children’s literature.

Research Aim: This research will reflect on the potential use of a school classroom to promote multicultural literature for children. Since a classroom is filled with children of different cultural backgrounds, it becomes easier to introduce multicultural literature. The difficulties and the advantages to society in the incorporation of multicultural literature in classrooms are discussed.

Important Notes:

As literature looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment with existing literature theories – i.e., to add value and interest to your research topic.

The literature field is vast and interrelated to many other academic disciplines like linguistics , English literature and more. That is why creating a literature dissertation topic that is particular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field is imperative.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic based on your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, and there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation , as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best literature dissertation topics that fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample literature dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Literature Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

  • A Title Page
  • Acknowledgements
  • Declaration
  • Abstract: A summary of the research completed
  • Table of Contents
  • Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
  • Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths whilst identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic and key terms that can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
  • Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter, which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and data analysis strategy .
  • Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs, charts, and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
  • Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section of the paper is to link the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
  • References : Your University’s requirements should complete this
  • Bibliography
  • Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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Children’s Literature Research Paper Topics: Top 20 Examples

Performing research in children’s literature provides a deep look not only into the cultural side of our lives, but also the psychological, ethical, religious, social and many more. Thus, no format of an academic paper allows studying the wide topic in literature from all sides simultaneously in a profound way – this will mean too much information for one work. That’s why when selecting a topic for your survey it’s important to decide which aspects of the problem it will disclose exactly.

20 Inspiring Topics for Your Research Paper

  • How a family is portrayed in the modern children’s literature?
  • Comparative analysis of the theme of death’s disclosure in adult and children’s literature.
  • Main features of children’s poetry.
  • Lewis Carroll’s contribution into the development of a fairy tale genre.
  • Peculiarities of a heroic motif in children’s books.
  • How does the screening of a children’s book influence its popularity?
  • Main methods of interpreting the children’s literature.
  • Educational and pedagogic use of children’s literature.
  • A succession of the most prominent American children’s authors and their place in the world children’s literature.
  • What genres of children’s literature are most popular today?
  • Roots and main historical milestones of literature for kids.
  • The most significant differences between children’s and young adults’ literature.
  • A way of presenting mysticism in children’s books.
  • A phenomenon of children’s detective stories.
  • Children’s tales in the literary heritage of Rudyard Kipling.
  • Influence of myths and folktales on children’s literature.
  • Key concepts of childhood presented via modern children’s books.
  • A role of illustrations in books for kids.
  • Can the comic strips for children be considered as a part of children’s literature?
  • A concept of Good and Evil in modern children’s books.

Things to Remember When Choosing a Topic

  • Stay within a field you have enough experience in.
  • Work on a topic you are really keen and passionate about.
  • Make sure that you are able to collect enough relevant data to research the chosen topic.
  • Don’t try to cover an obviously general topic unless you are sure of your academic abilities for this task.
  • Select the topic that corresponds with the direction of your course.
  • Pick the topic that matches your personal academic aims and interests as much as possible.
  • Consider the amount of time you have for performing your study before deciding upon a topic.

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Critical Approaches to Children's Literature

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Two Kids Reading a Cutouts Fairy Tale Book | Photo by cottonbro from Pexels with logo from Centre for Research in Children's Literature at Cambridge

the staff have knowledge in depth of a remarkable range of theoretical and critical positions, as well as an encyclopaedic knowledge of texts

(Professor Peter Hunt, Emeritus Professor, University of Cardiff, External Examiner)

Overview of the course

In this route, students will meet old favourites in fiction, film, poetry and picturebooks and make exciting new acquaintances. They will be introduced to topical debates on the nature and social function of this controversial and multifaceted body of literature.

They will also be provided with the tools for a critical assessment of texts written and marketed for a young audience. All students on the Critical Approaches to Children’s Literature course are automatically members of the Centre for Research in Children's Literature at Cambridge  which provides a superb study environment for all our graduate students in children’s literature. 

Why choose us?

  • Benefit from teaching by internationally renowned Faculty staff specialising in children's and young adult literature
  • Enjoy a wide range of theoretical frameworks and approaches to literature for young readers
  • Closely engage with the activities of the Centre for Research in Children's Literature at Cambridge
  • Join a unique and vibrant community of graduate students and researchers in children's literature
  • Benefit from the experience of meeting fellow students from all over the world
  • Experience a teaching approach that promotes research-orientated pedagogy and encourages critical engagement with literature and media for young people
  • Enjoy personalised support and mentoring through one-to-one supervision
  • Gain knowledge and develop research skills to continue to a PhD in children's literature
  • Develop skills for employability across a range of institutions including academia, publishing and reading promotion

What does this course offer?

As well as providing a strong grounding in critical perspectives, this unique interdisciplinary course offers several distinctive elements which distinguish it from other courses on offer in other universities:

  • a prominent theoretical focus, including areas such as cognitive poetics, posthumanism, new materialisms, postcolonialism and gender studies 
  • qualitative action research involving empirical work with children
  • a strong emphasis on picturebooks, comics and graphic novels, as well as visual and multimodal literacies
  • coverage of modes and genres such as poetry and non-fiction for children
  • teaching that extends into areas including the intersections between childhood studies and children’s creativities, and between intellectual histories and material cultures
  • experience in archival research
  • a seminar series where visiting scholars, guest academics, writers or illustrators give a talk followed by the opportunity for questions and discussion.

In addition, students are welcomed into a thriving research community with opportunities to interact with many students who have previously taken our MPhil/MEd route and are now embarked on doctoral research on children's literature.

How is the course organised?

  • Module 1: Texts, Contexts and Childhood
  • Module 2: Perspectives on Children's Literature
  • Module 3: Visual Texts
  • Module 4: Texts and Readers

Course assessment

The course is assessed through three assignments, each designed to be personally rewarding as well as professionally enlightening and intellectually challenging:

  • case study of children's texts that makes use of library-based research (from archival to digital), focusing on texts for children with particular reference to changing constructions of childhood
  • empirical study of children responding to a selected picturebook
  • dissertation on a topic of the student's own choosing, which may be either a purely literary study or a small empirical research project. 

Student joining Year 2

Students joining in the second year of the course do the dissertation but not the essays.

MPhil students

Students on the MPhil course complete the course in one year and have teaching sessions throughout the week.

PGCE-MEd students

Students on the PGCE-MEd course have one teaching session per week on a Wednesday afternoon (2-7pm).

Research Methods Strand

Alongside these modules, you will benefit from 32 hours of Research Methods teaching.

This is taught across all thematic Masters within the Faculty of Education, allowing you to interact with others on different routes.

It covers a broad range of social science research methods and is essential for Masters level understanding and critical engagement with the research literature in many specialist areas and in education more generally.

Through this strand you will acquire the skills necessary for designing, conducting, analysing, interpreting and reporting a research study for thesis.

Detailed information.

Who are the course team?

  • Frances Foster
  • Blanka Grzegorczyk
  • Joe Sutliff-Sanders
  • Karen Coats
  • Melanie Keene

Where do our students go?

Our graduates are the emerging stars in their field of research and Cambridge ambassadors throughout the world.

They have a wide choice of career options, including:

  • further doctoral study
  • advanced teaching opportunities and English
  • media and communication,
  • childhood studies
  • cultural studies and education
  • leading positions in publishing
  • reading promotion
  • video game development companies

What our students say

‘The MPhil course in children’s literature is unique for its interdisciplinary breadth.

As someone coming from a strictly literary background, I found myself continually surprised and challenged by the dual focus of literary study and educational research.

Being exposed to research methodologies in education, such as reader response criticism, was eye-opening in a genre like children’s literature, which, after all, includes the intended audience in its title.

One simply cannot study children’s literature as an adult without attempting to understand how children read texts, and this course is predicated on this premise.

The MPhil, being a one-year course, is necessarily short, and my own year was abbreviated further by the pandemic, but as a whole, the curriculum gave me a sampling of a rich array of texts, from early primers to the present day.

In tandem with the primary sources, we were exposed to a diversity of secondary sources across many schools of criticism, including postcolonial, feminist, and gender theories. I would say, with such a dizzying array of primary and secondary sources (not to mention a whole panoply of educational research methods), it can be quite overwhelming to choose one’s own research path within such a short period.

I can also say, however, that both of my supervisors, despite the necessary limitations of the pandemic, went above and beyond to ensure my confidence in my chosen projects. They were immensely helpful, both within and beyond their specialties. The diverse range of interests across the faculty ensures that someone, somewhere will have some knowledge of the subject at hand.

All in all, this MPhil course led me in many new directions and re-affirmed my dedication to the study of children’s literature.’

MPhil Student, 2019-20 (August 2021)

‘The MPhil in Education (Approaches to Children’s Literature) challenged and enriched my thinking as a writer and educator. The course expanded my knowledge and understanding of children’s literature, exposing me to a diverse range of children and young adult literature across a range of contexts and genres. The academic staff were exceptional in their high degree of dedication and extensive knowledge of their subject areas. They were not only incredibly generous with their time and advice but delivered engaging lectures that included thought-provoking primary and secondary reading options. The brilliance of this course is that you are working with the great minds in the field and can enter thoughtful dialogue with them about your ideas. Relatedly, I was well supported by an incredible supervisor, a brilliant mind and leading academic in the field who encouraged and inspired my thinking. This degree of support permeated the course with both staff and students being engaged and enthusiastic which created a warm and engaging learning environment. Special mention goes to the library staff at both the Education Faculty and Homerton College who were always friendly faces and guiding lights. Overall, this course is an incredibly rewarding one which will open doors to further academic study. This course paved the way for my PhD research and continued immersion in the field of children’s literature.

MPhil student, 2019-20 (August 2021)

‘Thanks to engaging seminars, thought-provoking book clubs and fantastic study spaces, my cohort became a close group of enthusiastic researchers - undoubtedly friends and colleagues for life. It was wonderful to see each other grow in confidence as the year progressed and discover our own avenues of research, supported by our supervisors. With each assignment I appreciated the encouragement to take risks and delve into topics that were completely new to me, including empirical research, pop-up books and digital humanities. I left this course feeling incredibly inspired and excited to continue to explore the field of children's literature.’

MPhil Student, 2018-19; current PhD student (July 2021)

‘The course changed my life and opened doors for me professionally. The seminar and supervision format provided an intimate, dynamic environment to embrace the serious study of children's literature from a wide range of theoretical perspectives. My undergraduate degree was at an art school in London, so I was a bit nervous about joining the Faculty of Education because I thought it would be full of Miss Trunchbull-like ex-teachers. But interdisciplinarity is at the heart of children's literature studies (and education as a discipline) and part of the magic is different people coming together from different perspectives. I recommend the course wholeheartedly.‘

MPhil Student, 2017-18; current PhD student (July 2021)

‘After really enjoying a Children's Literature module on my BA degree, I started doing some research about studying Children's Literature as an MPhil. I was initially wary about applying because I knew that as adults, we can sometimes be quite protective over texts we have read and enjoyed as a child. I knew the course wouldn't be sentimental, but I wasn't sure about the other students in the class. However, from the first term, it became clear that the course's modus operandi was to give you the tools to read children's literature critically, thus enabling (and encouraging!) the robust, vigorous discussion which inevitably followed. And robust, vigorous discussion we did have! ! I was lucky to be part of a fairly diverse cohort, and I think I learnt as much from my fellow scholars as I did from the lecturers. I am now doing a PhD in children's television which involves some empirical research. I often take my skills and knowledge of research methods for granted, but I have the MPhil course to thank for making sure I was fully prepared.

MPhil student, 2017-18; current PhD student (August 2021)

‘To undertake the Critical Approaches to Children's Literature programme is to participate in a hugely welcoming, rigorous and nurturing postgraduate experience. I was part of the 2016-2017 cohort where research staff and fellow students alike possessed an enthusiasm that made every seminar, supervision and/or spontaneous faculty café catch-up feel enriching. The programme's range of texts, paired with the course team's various areas of expertise, means that you are able to confidently develop your own research interests. Furthermore, the training and research that I completed during my time on the programme continues to be invaluable in developing my current PhD research and academic network.’

MPhil Student, 2016-17 (August 2021)

Being part of such a vibrant research community has been really special

PGCE-MEd Student, 2015-16 (July 2016)

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Children's and Young Adult Literature

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Special Topics in Children's Literature

There are a number of areas suitable for academic study in the fields of children’s and young adult literature. Academic special topics differ from curricular studies in that they require the critical examination of literature for young people through sociological, historical, cultural and theoretical lenses.

For more information on various subtopics, please Select From The Drop Down Menu Of This Tab or from the links below.

In the bottom box, you will find a handful of potential topics for academic study. There are many possible topics not listed. Go to the drop down menu in this tab for more information on areas of general academic interest. Use these resources to help develop and narrow your thesis. If you have any questions, contact a librarian.

Topics to Consider

There are countless special topics to choose from. The list below represents a few suggestions.

Gender in Children's Literature

Fairy Tales & Fairy Tale Adaptations

Theorizing Children's Literature

Moral Instruction in Children's Literature

Genre in Young Adult Literature

Individual vs Society in Young Adult Literature

Racial and Cultural Representations in Children's and Young Adult Literature

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Children's Literature

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Online Dissertation Resources

Dissertations, useful links to online dissertations and theses, university of roehampton theses & masters dissertations, using a thesis held in the roehampton repository in your own work, academic writing style guides.

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We have a range of online resources to help plan, write and finish your dissertation. Although this is aimed primarily at 3rd Year Undergraduates and Postgraduate Taught students, it contains information that can be useful to Postgraduate Research Students.

  • Sage Research Methods (Library Database) Provides a range of useful tools including a Project Planner, which breaks down each stage of your research from defining your topic, reviewing the literature to summarising and writing up.
  • Literature Reviews Checklist - Handout
  • Components of a Dissertation (document) A useful guide to the central components of a dissertation. By the end you should be able to: --Understand the core elements that should be in your dissertation --Understand the structure and progression of a strong dissertation
  • Dissertation Workshop - Handouts Includes a planning template and outline
  • Dissertation Workshop Slides
  • Writing Your Dissertation Guide - Handout

Other Resources

  • Reading Strategies (PDF document) An interactive document on reading at university.
  • How To Write A Literature Review Video - Queen's University Belfast 10 minute video
  • Start to Finish Dissertations Online Webinar from Manchester
  • A to Z of Literature Reviews - University of Manchester 20 minute tutorial
  • Appendices A short example of how to use and cite appendices in your dissertations, essays or projects

Check out these recordings to help you through your Dissertation writing process, from start to finish. 

Dissertation Planning and Writing Series

  • Starting Your Dissertation (Video) 46 minutes This webinar recording will help you with the early stages of planning, researching and writing your dissertation. By the end you should be able to: --Understand the challenges and opportunities of writing a dissertation --Move towards refining your subject and title --Know what steps to take to progress with your dissertation
  • Writing Your Dissertation (Video) 52 minutes This webinar recording will help guide you through the middle stages of writing your dissertation. By the end you should be able to: --Identify the key parts of a high quality dissertation --Understand how to structure your dissertation effectively --Know how to increase the fluency and strength of your argument across an extended piece of writing 
  • Finishing Your Dissertation (Video) 59 minutes This webinar recording aims to guide you through the final stages of writing your dissertation. By the end you should be able to: --Identify key features that should be included in your dissertation --Know how to ensure your dissertation has a strong and cohesive structure --Proofread your work.
  • Using Word to Format Long Documents (Video) 1 hour and 22 minutes A video tutorial on how to format long documents such as Essays and Dissertations using Word. By the end you should be able to: --Create a Table of Contents --Know how to insert page numbers --Be familiar with how to use the various auto-formatting and styles functions to manage longer documents

A selection of external sources that would be of particular use to 3rd Year Undergraduate students and Postgraduate students. 

Please note that the Library does not hold Undergraduate or Masters Dissertations. For information on print and online doctoral theses please see below information on University of Roehampton Thesis Collection

Accessibility

National thesis service provided by the British Library which aims to maximise the visibility and availability of the UK's doctoral theses. NOTE: EthOS is currently unavailable due to ongoing issues following a serious cyber security incident at the BL (January 2024). 

Help using this resource

EBSCO Open Dissertations is an online thesis and dissertation database with access to over 800,000 electronic theses and dissertations worldwide.

  • DART-Europe E-theses Portal Free access to nearly 800,000 open access research theses from 615 universities in 28 European countries.
  • Open Access Theses and Dissertations OATD.org aims to be the best possible resource for finding open access graduate theses and dissertations published around the world. Metadata (information about the theses) comes from over 1100 colleges, universities, and research institutions. OATD currently indexes 5,153,410 theses and dissertations.

The university holds a selection of theses and master dissertations awarded by the University of Roehampton.

2013 onwards, Digital Theses

Roehampton Research Explorer - Student Theses

Theses subject to an embargo are not accessible digitally or in hard copy until the embargo period elapses. Embargoes may be applied to protect the rights of the author whilst they explore opportunities for publication, or where sensitive information is held within the thesis.

Please note  that there is a short delay in recently submitted theses appearing on our repository. If you cannot find the thesis you are looking for, please  contact the Research Office .

2004-2013, Print Theses & Masters Dissertations

The University holds a print Theses Collection (including some Masters dissertations) on the 2 nd Floor of the Library. The holdings are not complete as the criteria for inclusion was set by academic departments, and threshold varied between department. Not all student work would be made available to view. The selected works were intended to provide examples of work for students. Some examples were kept in-house, used for teaching purposes, and not available within the library.  Library print holdings were usually kept for up to 10 years and reviewed for relevance.

To search for print theses and masters dissertations use UR Library Search to search for a title or topic and filter by Format > Book > Theses, Dissertation.

1985-2004, Roehampton Institute of Higher Education (RIHE)

Dissertations and theses published between 1985-2004 were awarded by the University of Surrey. The holdings are not complete as the criteria for inclusion was set by academic departments, and threshold varied between department. Not all student work would be made available to view. The selected works were intended to provide examples of work for students.

To search for digitised copies of RHIE theses go to the University of Surrey’s Open Research repository .

You may re-use material from a thesis in the same way you would any other source, i.e. by providing a full citation to the thesis in question, and by not re-using material in a way that may breach the rights of the author.

If you feel your own copyright has been affected by content held in the University of Roehampton repository, please refer to our take down policy and contact us immediately.

  • Government Guidance on exceptions to copyright Details of the exceptions to copyright that allow limited use of copyright works without the permission of the copyright owner.
  • Academic Style Guides Resource List See the style guides available in the Library for a variety of disciplines
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  • Last Updated: Feb 13, 2024 9:51 AM
  • URL: https://library.roehampton.ac.uk/childrensliterature

Literature Thesis Topics

Academic Writing Service

This page provides a comprehensive list of literature thesis topics , offering a valuable resource for students tasked with writing a thesis in the field of literature. Designed to cater to a wide array of literary interests and academic inquiries, the topics are organized into 25 diverse categories, ranging from African American Literature to Young Adult Literature. Each category includes 40 distinct topics, making a total of 1000 topics. This structure not only facilitates easy navigation but also aids in the identification of precise research areas that resonate with students’ interests and academic goals. The purpose of this page is to inspire students by presenting a breadth of possibilities, helping them to formulate a thesis that is both original and aligned with current literary discussions.

1000 Literature Thesis Topics and Ideas

Literature Thesis Topics

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code, browse literature thesis topics, african american literature thesis topics, american literature thesis topics, children’s literature thesis topics, comparative literature thesis topics, contemporary literature thesis topics, diaspora literature thesis topics, english literature thesis topics, feminist literature thesis topics, gothic literature thesis topics, indigenous literature thesis topics, literary theory thesis topics, literature and film studies thesis topics, literature and history thesis topics, literature and philosophy thesis topics, literature and psychology thesis topics, medieval literature thesis topics, modernist literature thesis topics, postcolonial literature thesis topics, postmodern literature thesis topics, renaissance literature thesis topics, romantic literature thesis topics, science fiction and fantasy literature thesis topics, victorian literature thesis topics, world literature thesis topics, young adult literature thesis topics.

  • The evolution of African American narrative forms from slave narratives to contemporary fiction.
  • An analysis of the Harlem Renaissance: Artistic explosion and its impact on African American identity.
  • The role of music and oral tradition in African American literature.
  • A study of code-switching in African American literature and its effects on cultural and linguistic identity.
  • Gender and sexuality in African American women’s literature.
  • The portrayal of race and racism in the works of Toni Morrison.
  • The influence of African spirituality and religion in African American literature.
  • Exploring Afrofuturism through the works of Octavia Butler and N.K. Jemisin.
  • The representation of the family in African American literature post-1960s.
  • The use of southern settings in African American literature: A study of place and identity.
  • Intersectionality in the writings of Audre Lorde and Angela Davis.
  • The depiction of African American men in literature and media: Stereotypes vs. reality.
  • The impact of the Black Arts Movement on contemporary African American culture.
  • Literary responses to the Civil Rights Movement in African American literature.
  • The role of education in African American autobiographical writing.
  • The portrayal of historical trauma and memory in African American literature.
  • Analyzing black masculinity through the works of Richard Wright and James Baldwin.
  • The treatment of racial ambiguity and colorism in African American fiction.
  • The influence of hip-hop and rap on contemporary African American poetry.
  • The narrative strategies used in African American science fiction.
  • Postcolonial readings of African American literature: Transnational perspectives.
  • The evolution of black feminism reflected in literature.
  • The significance of folk motifs in the works of Zora Neale Hurston.
  • The impact of the Great Migration on literary depictions of African American life.
  • Urbanism and its influence on African American literary forms.
  • The legacy of Langston Hughes and his influence on modern African American poetry.
  • Comparing the racial politics in African American literature from the 20th to the 21st century.
  • The role of African American literature in shaping public opinion on social justice issues.
  • Mental health and trauma in African American literature.
  • The literary critique of the American Dream in African American literature.
  • Environmental racism and its representation in African American literature.
  • The adaptation of African American literary works into films and its cultural implications.
  • Analyzing class struggle through African American literary works.
  • The portrayal of African Americans in graphic novels and comics.
  • Exploring the African diaspora through literature: Connections and divergences.
  • The influence of Barack Obama’s presidency on African American literature.
  • Representation of African American LGBTQ+ voices in modern literature.
  • The use of speculative elements to explore social issues in African American literature.
  • The role of the church and religion in African American literary narratives.
  • Literary examinations of police brutality and racial profiling in African American communities.
  • The evolution of the American Dream in 20th-century American literature.
  • An analysis of naturalism and realism in the works of Mark Twain and Henry James.
  • The depiction of the frontier in American literature and its impact on national identity.
  • Exploring postmodern techniques in the novels of Thomas Pynchon and Don DeLillo.
  • The influence of immigration on American narrative forms and themes.
  • The role of the Beat Generation in shaping American counter-culture literature.
  • Feminist themes in the novels of Sylvia Plath and Toni Morrison.
  • Ecocriticism and the portrayal of nature in American literature from Thoreau to contemporary authors.
  • The depiction of war and its aftermath in American literature: From the Civil War to the Iraq War.
  • The treatment of race and ethnicity in the novels of John Steinbeck.
  • The role of technology and media in contemporary American fiction.
  • The impact of the Great Depression on American literary works.
  • An examination of gothic elements in early American literature.
  • The influence of transcendentalism in the works of Emerson and Whitman.
  • Modernist expressions in the poetry of Wallace Stevens and Ezra Pound.
  • The depiction of suburban life in mid-20th-century American literature.
  • The cultural significance of the Harlem Renaissance in the development of American literature.
  • Identity and self-exploration in the essays of Ralph Waldo Emerson.
  • Analyzing the concept of alienation in the works of Edward Albee and Arthur Miller.
  • The role of political activism in the plays of August Wilson.
  • The portrayal of children and adolescence in American literature.
  • The use of satire and humor in the novels of Kurt Vonnegut.
  • Exploring the American South through the literature of Flannery O’Connor and William Faulkner.
  • The representation of LGBTQ+ characters in American novels from the 1960s to present.
  • Consumer culture and its critique in American post-war fiction.
  • The legacy of slavery in American literature and its contemporary implications.
  • The motif of the journey in American literature as a metaphor for personal and collective discovery.
  • The role of the wilderness in shaping American environmental literature.
  • An analysis of dystopian themes in American science fiction from Philip K. Dick to Octavia Butler.
  • The representation of Native American culture and history in American literature.
  • The treatment of mental health in the short stories of Edgar Allan Poe.
  • American expatriate writers in Paris during the 1920s: Lost Generation narratives.
  • The influence of jazz music on the narrative structure of American literature.
  • The intersection of law and morality in the novels of Herman Melville.
  • Post-9/11 themes in contemporary American literature.
  • The evolution of feminist literature in America from the 19th century to modern times.
  • Examining consumerism and its discontents in the novels of Bret Easton Ellis.
  • The portrayal of American cities in 20th-century literature.
  • The impact of the civil rights movement on American literary production.
  • The use of magical realism in the works of contemporary American authors.
  • The role of fairy tales in the development of child psychology.
  • Representation of family structures in modern children’s literature.
  • Gender roles in classic vs. contemporary children’s books.
  • The evolution of the hero’s journey in children’s literature.
  • Moral lessons and their conveyance through children’s stories.
  • The impact of fantasy literature on children’s imaginative development.
  • Depictions of cultural diversity in children’s books.
  • The use of animals as characters and their symbolic meanings in children’s stories.
  • The portrayal of disability in children’s literature and its impact on inclusivity.
  • The influence of children’s literature on early reading skills.
  • Analysis of cross-generational appeal in children’s literature.
  • The role of illustrations in enhancing narrative in children’s books.
  • Censorship and controversial topics in children’s literature.
  • Adaptations of children’s literature into films and their impact on the stories’ reception.
  • The representation of historical events in children’s literature.
  • Exploring the educational value of non-fiction children’s books.
  • The treatment of death and loss in children’s literature.
  • The role of magic and the supernatural in shaping values through children’s books.
  • Psychological impacts of children’s horror literature.
  • The significance of award-winning children’s books in educational contexts.
  • The influence of digital media on children’s book publishing.
  • Parental figures in children’s literature: From authoritarian to nurturing roles.
  • Narrative strategies used in children’s literature to discuss social issues.
  • Environmental themes in children’s literature and their role in fostering eco-consciousness.
  • The adaptation of classic children’s literature in the modern era.
  • The portrayal of bullying in children’s books and its implications for social learning.
  • The use of humor in children’s literature and its effects on engagement and learning.
  • Comparative analysis of children’s book series and their educational impacts.
  • Development of identity and self-concept through children’s literature.
  • The effectiveness of bilingual children’s books in language teaching.
  • The role of rhyme and rhythm in early literacy development through children’s poetry.
  • Sociopolitical themes in children’s literature and their relevance to contemporary issues.
  • The portrayal of technology and its use in children’s science fiction.
  • The representation of religious themes in children’s books.
  • The impact of children’s literature on adult readership.
  • The influence of children’s literature on children’s attitudes towards animals and nature.
  • How children’s literature can be used to support emotional intelligence and resilience.
  • The evolution of adventure themes in children’s literature.
  • Gender representation in children’s graphic novels.
  • Analyzing the narrative structure of children’s picture books.
  • Cross-cultural influences in the modernist movements of Europe and Japan.
  • The depiction of the Other in Western and Eastern literature.
  • Comparative analysis of postcolonial narratives in African and South Asian literatures.
  • The concept of the tragic hero in Greek and Shakespearean drama.
  • The treatment of love and marriage in 19th-century French and Russian novels.
  • The portrayal of nature in American transcendentalism vs. British romanticism.
  • Influence of Persian poetry on 19th-century European poets.
  • Modern reinterpretations of classical myths in Latin American and Southern European literature.
  • The role of dystopian themes in Soviet vs. American cold war literature.
  • Magic realism in Latin American and Sub-Saharan African literature.
  • Comparative study of feminist waves in American and Middle Eastern literature.
  • The depiction of urban life in 20th-century Brazilian and Indian novels.
  • The theme of exile in Jewish literature and Palestinian narratives.
  • Comparative analysis of existential themes in French and Japanese literature.
  • Themes of isolation and alienation in Scandinavian and Canadian literature.
  • The influence of colonialism on narrative structures in Irish and Indian English literature.
  • Analysis of folk tales adaptation in German and Korean children’s literature.
  • The portrayal of historical trauma in Armenian and Jewish literature.
  • The use of allegory in Medieval European and Classical Arabic literature.
  • Representation of indigenous cultures in Australian and North American novels.
  • The role of censorship in Soviet literature compared to Francoist Spain.
  • Themes of redemption in African-American and South African literature.
  • Narrative techniques in stream of consciousness: Virginia Woolf and Clarice Lispector.
  • The intersection of poetry and politics in Latin American and Middle Eastern literature.
  • The evolution of the epistolary novel in 18th-century England and France.
  • Comparative study of the Beat Generation and the Angolan writers of the 1960s.
  • The depiction of spiritual journeys in Indian and Native American literatures.
  • Cross-cultural examinations of humor and satire in British and Russian literatures.
  • Comparative analysis of modern dystopias in American and Chinese literature.
  • The impact of globalization on contemporary European and Asian novelists.
  • Postmodern identity crisis in Japanese and Italian literature.
  • Comparative study of the concept of heroism in ancient Greek and Indian epics.
  • Ecocriticism in British and Brazilian literature.
  • The influence of the French Revolution on English and French literature.
  • Representation of mental illness in 20th-century American and Norwegian plays.
  • Themes of migration in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean literatures.
  • Gender and sexuality in contemporary African and Southeast Asian short stories.
  • The literary portrayal of technological advances in German and American literature.
  • Comparative study of children’s fantasy literature in the British and Egyptian traditions.
  • The role of the supernatural in Japanese and Celtic folklore narratives.
  • The impact of digital culture on narrative forms in contemporary literature.
  • Representation of the global financial crisis in 21st-century novels.
  • Analysis of identity and self in the age of social media as depicted in contemporary literature.
  • The role of dystopian themes in reflecting contemporary societal fears.
  • Post-9/11 political and cultural narratives in American literature.
  • The influence of migration on shaping multicultural identities in contemporary novels.
  • Gender fluidity and queer identities in contemporary literary works.
  • Environmental concerns and ecocriticism in 21st-century fiction.
  • The resurgence of the epistolary novel form in the digital age.
  • The depiction of mental health in contemporary young adult literature.
  • The role of indigenous voices in contemporary world literature.
  • Neo-colonialism and its representation in contemporary African literature.
  • The intersection of film and literature in contemporary storytelling.
  • Analysis of consumerism and its critique in modern literary works.
  • The rise of autobiographical novels in contemporary literature and their impact on narrative authenticity.
  • Technological dystopias and human identity in contemporary science fiction.
  • The representation of terrorism and its impacts in contemporary literature.
  • Examination of contemporary feminist literature and the evolution of feminist theory.
  • The literary treatment of historical memory and trauma in post-Soviet literature.
  • The changing face of heroism in 21st-century literature.
  • Contemporary plays addressing the challenges of modern relationships and family dynamics.
  • The use of supernatural elements in modern literary fiction.
  • The influence of Eastern philosophies on Western contemporary literature.
  • The portrayal of aging and death in contemporary novels.
  • The dynamics of power and corruption in new political thrillers.
  • The evolution of narrative voice and perspective in contemporary literature.
  • Representation of refugees and asylum seekers in modern fiction.
  • The impact of pandemics on literary themes and settings.
  • Postmodern approaches to myth and folklore in contemporary writing.
  • The critique of nationalism and patriotism in 21st-century literature.
  • The use of satire and irony to critique contemporary political climates.
  • Emerging forms of literature, such as interactive and visual novels, in the digital era.
  • The representation of class struggle in contemporary urban narratives.
  • Changes in the portrayal of romance and intimacy in new adult fiction.
  • The challenge of ethical dilemmas in contemporary medical dramas.
  • Examination of space and place in the new landscape of contemporary poetry.
  • Contemporary reimaginings of classical literature characters in modern settings.
  • The role of privacy, surveillance, and paranoia in contemporary narratives.
  • The blending of genres in contemporary literature: The rise of hybrid forms.
  • The portrayal of artificial intelligence and its implications for humanity in contemporary works.
  • The role of memory and nostalgia in the literature of the Jewish diaspora.
  • Narratives of displacement and identity in the African diaspora.
  • The portrayal of the Indian diaspora in contemporary literature.
  • Cross-cultural conflicts and identity negotiations in Korean diaspora literature.
  • The influence of colonial legacies on Caribbean diaspora writers.
  • The concept of “home” and “belonging” in Palestinian diaspora literature.
  • Exploring the Irish diaspora through literary expressions of exile and return.
  • The impact of migration on gender roles within Middle Eastern diaspora communities.
  • Representation of the Vietnamese diaspora in American literature.
  • Transnationalism and its effects on language and narrative in Chicano/Chicana literature.
  • Dual identities and the search for authenticity in Italian-American diaspora writing.
  • The evolution of cultural identity in second-generation diaspora authors.
  • Comparative analysis of diaspora literature from former Yugoslav countries.
  • The depiction of generational conflicts in Chinese-American diaspora literature.
  • The use of folklore and mythology in reconnecting with cultural roots in Filipino diaspora literature.
  • The representation of trauma and recovery in the literature of the Armenian diaspora.
  • Intersectionality and feminism in African diaspora literature.
  • The role of culinary culture in narratives of the Indian diaspora.
  • Identity politics and the struggle for cultural preservation in diaspora literature from Latin America.
  • The portrayal of exile and diaspora in modern Jewish Russian literature.
  • The impact of globalization on diaspora identities as reflected in literature.
  • Language hybridity and innovation in Anglophone Caribbean diaspora literature.
  • Literary portrayals of the challenges faced by refugees in European diaspora communities.
  • The influence of remittances and transnational ties on Filipino diaspora literature.
  • The use of magical realism to express diasporic experiences in Latin American literature.
  • The effects of assimilation and cultural retention in Greek diaspora literature.
  • The role of digital media in shaping the narratives of contemporary diasporas.
  • The depiction of the African American return diaspora in literature.
  • Challenges of integration and discrimination in Muslim diaspora literature in Western countries.
  • The portrayal of Soviet diaspora communities in post-Cold War literature.
  • The narratives of return and reintegration in post-colonial diaspora literatures.
  • The influence of historical events on the literature of the Korean War diaspora.
  • The role of diaspora literature in shaping national policies on immigration.
  • Identity crisis and cultural negotiation in French-Algerian diaspora literature.
  • The impact of diaspora on the evolution of national literatures.
  • Literary exploration of transracial adoption in American diaspora literature.
  • The exploration of queer identities in global diaspora communities.
  • The influence of the digital age on the literary expression of diaspora experiences.
  • Themes of loss and alienation in Canadian diaspora literature.
  • The role of literature in documenting the experiences of the Syrian diaspora.
  • The role of the supernatural in the works of Shakespeare.
  • The portrayal of women in Victorian novels.
  • The influence of the Romantic poets on modern environmental literature.
  • The depiction of poverty and social class in Charles Dickens’ novels.
  • The evolution of the narrative form in British novels from the 18th to the 20th century.
  • Themes of war and peace in post-World War II British poetry.
  • The impact of colonialism on British literature during the Empire.
  • The role of the Byronic hero in Lord Byron’s works and its influence on subsequent literature.
  • The critique of human rights in the plays of Harold Pinter.
  • The representation of race and ethnicity in post-colonial British literature.
  • The influence of Gothic elements in the novels of the Brontë sisters.
  • Modernism and its discontents in the works of Virginia Woolf and T.S. Eliot.
  • The treatment of love and marriage in Jane Austen’s novels.
  • The use of irony and satire in Jonathan Swift’s writings.
  • The evolution of the tragic hero from Shakespeare to modern plays.
  • Literary depictions of the British countryside in poetry and prose.
  • The rise of feminist literature in England from Mary Wollstonecraft to the present.
  • The portrayal of children and childhood in Lewis Carroll’s works.
  • Analyzing the quest motif in British Arthurian literature.
  • The influence of the Industrial Revolution on English literature.
  • Themes of alienation and isolation in the novels of D.H. Lawrence.
  • The representation of religious doubt and faith in the poetry of John Donne and George Herbert.
  • The role of espionage and national identity in British spy novels.
  • Literary responses to the Irish Troubles in 20th-century British literature.
  • The evolution of comic and satirical plays in British theatre from Ben Jonson to Tom Stoppard.
  • The treatment of death and mourning in the works of Emily Dickinson and Christina Rossetti.
  • Comparative study of myth and mythology in the works of William Blake and Ted Hughes.
  • The depiction of the British Empire and its legacies in contemporary British literature.
  • The role of landscape and environment in shaping the novels of Thomas Hardy.
  • The influence of music and poetry on the lyrical ballads of Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
  • The impact of technology on society as depicted in the novels of Aldous Huxley.
  • The critique of societal norms and manners in Oscar Wilde’s plays.
  • Literary explorations of mental illness in the early 20th century.
  • The intersection of literature and science in the works of H.G. Wells.
  • The role of the sea in British literature: From Shakespeare’s tempests to Joseph Conrad’s voyages.
  • The impact of Brexit on contemporary British literature.
  • Themes of exile and displacement in the poetry of W.H. Auden.
  • The influence of American culture on post-war British literature.
  • The role of the detective novel in British literature, from Sherlock Holmes to contemporary works.
  • The portrayal of the “New Woman” in late 19th-century English literature.
  • The evolution of feminist thought in literature from the 19th century to the present.
  • Analysis of the portrayal of women in dystopian literature.
  • Intersectionality and its representation in contemporary feminist texts.
  • The role of women in shaping modernist literature.
  • Feminist critique of traditional gender roles in fairy tales and folklore.
  • The portrayal of female agency in graphic novels and comics.
  • The influence of second-wave feminism on literature of the 1960s and 1970s.
  • Postcolonial feminism in the works of authors from Africa and the Caribbean.
  • The depiction of motherhood in feminist literature across cultures.
  • The impact of feminist theory on the analysis of classical literature.
  • Ecofeminism: exploring the link between ecology and gender in literature.
  • Feminist perspectives on sexuality and desire in literature.
  • The intersection of feminism and disability in literary texts.
  • The role of the female gothic in understanding women’s oppression and empowerment.
  • Representation of transgender and non-binary characters in feminist literature.
  • Feminism and the critique of capitalism in literary works.
  • The representation of women in science fiction and fantasy genres.
  • Analysis of domesticity and the private sphere in 19th-century literature.
  • Feminist reinterpretations of mythological figures and stories.
  • The role of women in revolutionary narratives and political literature.
  • Feminist analysis of the body and corporeality in literature.
  • The portrayal of female friendships and solidarity in novels.
  • The influence of feminist literature on contemporary pop culture.
  • Gender and power dynamics in the works of Shakespeare from a feminist perspective.
  • The impact of digital media on feminist literary criticism.
  • Feminist literary responses to global crises and conflicts.
  • Queer feminism and literature: Exploring texts that intersect gender, sexuality, and feminist theory.
  • The portrayal of women in wartime literature from a feminist viewpoint.
  • Feminist poetry movements and their contribution to literary history.
  • The influence of feminist literary theory on teaching literature in academic settings.
  • Feminist analysis of women’s voices in oral narratives and storytelling traditions.
  • Representation of women in the detective and mystery genres.
  • The use of satire and humor in feminist literature to challenge societal norms.
  • Feminist perspectives on religious texts and their interpretations.
  • The critique of marriage and relationships in feminist novels.
  • Women’s narratives in the digital age: Blogs, social media, and literature.
  • Feminist literature as a tool for social change and activism.
  • The influence of feminist literature on legal and social policy reforms.
  • Gender roles in children’s literature: A feminist critique.
  • The role of feminist literature in redefining beauty standards and body image.
  • The evolution of the Gothic novel from the 18th century to contemporary Gothic fiction.
  • The representation of the sublime and the terrifying in Gothic literature.
  • The role of haunted landscapes in Gothic narratives.
  • Psychological horror vs. supernatural horror in Gothic literature.
  • The portrayal of madness in classic Gothic novels.
  • The influence of Gothic literature on modern horror films.
  • Themes of isolation and alienation in Gothic fiction.
  • The use of architecture as a symbol of psychological state in Gothic literature.
  • Gender roles and the portrayal of women in Victorian Gothic novels.
  • The revival of Gothic elements in 21st-century young adult literature.
  • The depiction of villains and anti-heroes in Gothic stories.
  • Comparative analysis of European and American Gothic literature.
  • The intersection of Gothic literature and romanticism.
  • The influence of religious symbolism and themes in Gothic narratives.
  • Gothic elements in the works of contemporary authors like Stephen King and Anne Rice.
  • The role of curses and prophecies in Gothic storytelling.
  • Gothic literature as social and cultural critique.
  • The representation of death and the afterlife in Gothic novels.
  • The use of dual personalities in Gothic literature.
  • The impact of Gothic literature on fashion and visual arts.
  • The role of secrecy and suspense in creating the Gothic atmosphere.
  • The depiction of the monstrous and the grotesque in Gothic texts.
  • Exploring the Gothic in graphic novels and comics.
  • The motif of the journey in Gothic literature.
  • The portrayal of science and experimentation in Gothic stories.
  • Gothic elements in children’s literature.
  • The role of nature and the natural world in Gothic narratives.
  • Themes of inheritance and the burden of the past in Gothic novels.
  • The influence of Gothic literature on the development of detective and mystery genres.
  • The portrayal of patriarchal society and its discontents in Gothic fiction.
  • The Gothic and its relation to postcolonial literature.
  • The use of folklore and myth in Gothic narratives.
  • The narrative structure and techniques in Gothic literature.
  • The role of the supernatural in defining the Gothic genre.
  • Gothic literature as a reflection of societal anxieties during different historical periods.
  • The motif of entrapment and escape in Gothic stories.
  • Comparative study of Gothic literature and dark romanticism.
  • The use of setting as a character in Gothic narratives.
  • The evolution of the ghost story within Gothic literature.
  • The function of mirrors and doubling in Gothic texts.
  • The portrayal of traditional spiritual beliefs in Indigenous literature.
  • The impact of colonization on Indigenous narratives and storytelling.
  • Analysis of language revitalization efforts through Indigenous literature.
  • Indigenous feminist perspectives in contemporary literature.
  • The role of land and environment in Indigenous storytelling.
  • Depictions of family and community in Indigenous novels.
  • The intersection of Indigenous literature and modernist themes.
  • The representation of cultural trauma and resilience in Indigenous poetry.
  • The use of oral traditions in modern Indigenous writing.
  • Indigenous perspectives on sovereignty and autonomy in literary texts.
  • The role of Indigenous literature in national reconciliation processes.
  • Contemporary Indigenous literature as a form of political activism.
  • The influence of Indigenous languages on narrative structure and poetics.
  • The depiction of urban Indigenous experiences in literature.
  • Analysis of Indigenous science fiction and speculative fiction.
  • The portrayal of intergenerational trauma and healing in Indigenous stories.
  • The role of mythology and folklore in contemporary Indigenous literature.
  • Indigenous authors and the global literary market.
  • The use of non-linear narratives in Indigenous storytelling.
  • Comparative study of Indigenous literatures from different continents.
  • The portrayal of Indigenous identities in children’s and young adult literature.
  • Representation of gender and sexuality in Indigenous literature.
  • The role of art and imagery in Indigenous narratives.
  • The influence of non-Indigenous readerships on the publication of Indigenous texts.
  • Environmental justice themes in Indigenous literature.
  • The depiction of historical events and their impacts in Indigenous novels.
  • Indigenous literature as a tool for education and cultural preservation.
  • The dynamics of translation in bringing Indigenous stories to a wider audience.
  • The treatment of non-human entities and their personification in Indigenous stories.
  • The influence of Indigenous storytelling techniques on contemporary cinema.
  • Indigenous authorship and intellectual property rights.
  • The impact of awards and recognitions on Indigenous literary careers.
  • Analysis of Indigenous autobiographies and memoirs.
  • The role of mentorship and community support in the development of Indigenous writers.
  • Comparative analysis of traditional and contemporary forms of Indigenous poetry.
  • The effect of digital media on the dissemination of Indigenous stories.
  • Indigenous resistance and survival narratives in the face of cultural assimilation.
  • The role of Indigenous literature in shaping cultural policies.
  • Exploring hybrid identities through Indigenous literature.
  • The representation of Indigenous spiritual practices in modern novels.
  • The application of deconstruction in contemporary literary analysis.
  • The impact of feminist theory on the interpretation of classic literature.
  • Marxism and its influence on the critique of 21st-century novels.
  • The role of psychoanalytic theory in understanding character motivations and narrative structures.
  • Postcolonial theory and its application to modern diaspora literature.
  • The relevance of structuralism in today’s literary studies.
  • The intersection of queer theory and literature.
  • The use of ecocriticism to interpret environmental themes in literature.
  • Reader-response theory and its implications for understanding audience engagement.
  • The influence of New Historicism on the interpretation of historical novels.
  • The application of critical race theory in analyzing literature by authors of color.
  • The role of biographical criticism in studying authorial intent.
  • The impact of digital humanities on literary studies.
  • The application of narrative theory in the study of non-linear storytelling.
  • The critique of capitalism using cultural materialism in contemporary literature.
  • The evolution of feminist literary criticism from the second wave to the present.
  • Hermeneutics and the philosophy of interpretation in literature.
  • The study of semiotics in graphic novels and visual literature.
  • The role of myth criticism in understanding modern reinterpretations of ancient stories.
  • Comparative literature and the challenges of cross-cultural interpretations.
  • The impact of globalization on postcolonial literary theories.
  • The application of disability studies in literary analysis.
  • Memory studies and its influence on the interpretation of narrative time.
  • The influence of phenomenology on character analysis in novels.
  • The role of orientalism in the depiction of the East in Western literature.
  • The relevance of Bakhtin’s theories on dialogism and the carnivalesque in contemporary media.
  • The implications of translation studies for interpreting multilingual texts.
  • The use of animal studies in literature to critique human-animal relationships.
  • The role of affect theory in understanding emotional responses to literature.
  • The critique of imperialism and nationalism in literature using postcolonial theories.
  • The implications of intersectionality in feminist literary criticism.
  • The application of Freudian concepts to the analysis of horror and Gothic literature.
  • The use of genre theory in classifying emerging forms of digital literature.
  • The critique of linguistic imperialism in postcolonial literature.
  • The use of performance theory in the study of drama and poetry readings.
  • The relevance of Antonio Gramsci’s theory of cultural hegemony in literary studies.
  • The examination of space and place in urban literature using spatial theory.
  • The impact of surveillance culture on contemporary narrative forms.
  • The application of chaos theory to the analysis of complex narrative structures.
  • The role of allegory in political and religious texts through historical and contemporary lenses.
  • Adaptation theory and the translation of literary narratives into film.
  • The role of the director as an interpreter of literary texts in cinema.
  • Comparative analysis of narrative techniques in novels and their film adaptations.
  • The impact of film adaptations on the reception of classic literature.
  • The portrayal of historical events in literature and film.
  • The influence of screenplay structure on literary narrative forms.
  • The representation of gender roles in book-to-film adaptations.
  • The intertextuality between film scripts and their source novels.
  • The use of visual symbolism in films adapted from literary works.
  • The portrayal of psychological depth in characters from literature to film.
  • The adaptation of non-fiction literature into documentary filmmaking.
  • The impact of the author’s biographical elements on film adaptations.
  • The role of music and sound in enhancing narrative elements from literature in films.
  • The evolution of the horror genre from literature to film.
  • The representation of science fiction themes in literature and their adaptation to cinema.
  • The influence of fan culture on the adaptation process.
  • The depiction of dystopian societies in books and their cinematic counterparts.
  • The challenges of translating poetry into visual narrative.
  • The portrayal of magical realism in literature and film.
  • The depiction of race and ethnicity in adaptations of multicultural literature.
  • The role of the viewer’s perspective in literature vs. film.
  • The effectiveness of dialogue adaptation from literary dialogues to film scripts.
  • The impact of setting and locale in film adaptations of regional literature.
  • The transformation of the mystery genre from page to screen.
  • The adaptation of children’s literature into family films.
  • The narrative construction of heroism in literary epics and their film adaptations.
  • The influence of graphic novels on visual storytelling in films.
  • The adaptation of classical mythology in modern cinema.
  • The ethics of adapting real-life events and biographies into film.
  • The role of cinematic techniques in depicting internal monologues from novels.
  • The comparison of thematic depth in short stories and their film adaptations.
  • The portrayal of alienation in modern literature and independent films.
  • The adaptation of stage plays into feature films.
  • The challenges of adapting experimental literature into conventional film formats.
  • The representation of time and memory in literature and film.
  • The adaptation of young adult novels into film franchises.
  • The role of directorial vision in reinterpreting a literary work for the screen.
  • The cultural impact of blockbuster adaptations of fantasy novels.
  • The influence of cinematic adaptations on contemporary novel writing.
  • The role of censorship in the adaptation of controversial literary works to film.
  • The portrayal of the American Revolution in contemporary historical novels.
  • The impact of the World Wars on European literary expression.
  • The depiction of the Victorian era in British novels.
  • Literary responses to the Great Depression in American literature.
  • The representation of the Russian Revolution in 20th-century literature.
  • The influence of the Harlem Renaissance on African American literature.
  • The role of literature in documenting the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.
  • The depiction of colonialism and its aftermath in African literature.
  • The influence of historical events on the development of national literatures.
  • The role of literary works in shaping public memory of historical tragedies.
  • The portrayal of the Holocaust in European and American literature.
  • The use of allegory to critique political regimes in 20th-century literature.
  • The depiction of indigenous histories and resistances in literature.
  • The representation of the French Revolution in romantic literature.
  • Literature as a tool for national identity construction in postcolonial states.
  • The portrayal of historical figures in biographical novels.
  • The influence of the Cold War on spy novels and political thrillers.
  • The impact of migration and diaspora on historical narratives in literature.
  • The role of the ancient world in shaping modern historical novels.
  • The depiction of the Industrial Revolution and its impacts in literature.
  • The role of women in historical novels from the feminist perspective.
  • The representation of religious conflicts and their historical impacts in literature.
  • The influence of myth and folklore on historical narrative constructions.
  • The depiction of the American West in literature and its historical inaccuracies.
  • The role of literature in the preservation of endangered languages and cultures.
  • The impact of digital archives on the study of literature and history.
  • The use of literature to explore counterfactual histories.
  • The portrayal of piracy and maritime history in adventure novels.
  • Literary depictions of the fall of empires and their historical contexts.
  • The impact of archaeological discoveries on historical fiction.
  • The influence of the Spanish Civil War on global literary movements.
  • The depiction of social upheavals and their impacts on literary production.
  • The role of literature in documenting the environmental history of regions.
  • The portrayal of non-Western historical narratives in global literature.
  • The impact of historical laws and policies on the lives of characters in novels.
  • The influence of public health crises and pandemics on literature.
  • The representation of trade routes and their historical significance in literature.
  • The depiction of revolutions and uprisings in Latin American literature.
  • The role of historical texts in the reimagining of genre literature.
  • The influence of postmodernism on the interpretation of historical narratives in literature.
  • The exploration of existential themes in modern literature.
  • The representation of Platonic ideals in Renaissance literature.
  • Nietzschean perspectives in the works of postmodern authors.
  • The influence of Stoicism on characters’ development in classical literature.
  • The portrayal of ethical dilemmas in war novels.
  • The philosophical underpinnings of utopian and dystopian literature.
  • The role of absurdism in the narratives of 20th-century plays.
  • The concept of ‘the Other’ in literature, from a phenomenological viewpoint.
  • The depiction of free will and determinism in science fiction.
  • The influence of feminist philosophy on contemporary literature.
  • The exploration of Socratic dialogue within literary texts.
  • The reflection of Cartesian dualism in Gothic novels.
  • Buddhist philosophy in the works of Eastern and Western authors.
  • The impact of existentialism on the characterization in novels by Camus and Sartre.
  • The use of allegory to explore philosophical concepts in medieval literature.
  • The portrayal of hedonism and asceticism in biographical fiction.
  • The exploration of phenomenology in autobiographical narratives.
  • Literary critiques of capitalism through Marxist philosophy.
  • The relationship between language and reality in post-structuralist texts.
  • The depiction of nihilism in Russian literature.
  • The intersection of Confucian philosophy and traditional Asian narratives.
  • The exploration of human nature in literature from a Hobbesian perspective.
  • The influence of pragmatism on American literary realism.
  • The portrayal of justice and injustice in novels centered on legal dilemmas.
  • The exploration of existential risk and future ethics in speculative fiction.
  • The philosophical examination of memory and identity in memoirs and autobiographies.
  • The role of ethics in the portrayal of artificial intelligence in literature.
  • The literary interpretation of Schopenhauer’s philosophy of pessimism.
  • The reflection of Epicurean philosophy in modern travel literature.
  • The influence of Kantian ethics on the narratives of moral conflict.
  • The representation of libertarian philosophies in dystopian literature.
  • The philosophical discourse on beauty and aesthetics in literature.
  • The exploration of virtue ethics through historical biographical novels.
  • The philosophical implications of transhumanism in cyberpunk literature.
  • The use of literature to explore the philosophical concept of the sublime.
  • The narrative structures of temporality and eternity in philosophical novels.
  • The impact of neo-Platonism on the symbolism in Renaissance poetry.
  • The portrayal of existential isolation in urban contemporary novels.
  • The reflection of utilitarianism in social and political novels.
  • The exploration of ethical ambiguity in spy and thriller genres.
  • The portrayal of psychological disorders in modernist literature.
  • Exploration of trauma and its narrative representation in post-war novels.
  • The use of stream of consciousness as a method to explore cognitive processes in literature.
  • The psychological impact of isolation in dystopian literature.
  • The depiction of childhood and development in coming-of-age novels.
  • Psychological manipulation in the narrative structure of mystery and thriller novels.
  • The role of psychological resilience in characters surviving extreme conditions.
  • The influence of Freudian theory on the interpretation of dreams in literature.
  • The use of psychological archetypes in the development of mythological storytelling.
  • The portrayal of psychological therapy and its impacts in contemporary fiction.
  • Analysis of cognitive dissonance through characters’ internal conflicts in novels.
  • The exploration of the Jungian shadow in villain characters.
  • Psychological profiling of protagonists in crime fiction.
  • The impact of societal expectations on mental health in historical novels.
  • The role of psychology in understanding unreliable narrators.
  • The depiction of addiction and recovery in autobiographical works.
  • The exploration of grief and mourning in poetry.
  • Psychological theories of love as depicted in romantic literature.
  • The narrative portrayal of dissociative identity disorder in literature.
  • The use of psychological suspense in Gothic literature.
  • The representation of anxiety and depression in young adult fiction.
  • Psychological effects of war on soldiers as depicted in military fiction.
  • The role of psychoanalysis in interpreting symbolic content in fairy tales.
  • The psychological impact of technological change as seen in science fiction.
  • The exploration of existential crises in philosophical novels.
  • The depiction of social psychology principles in literature about cults and mass movements.
  • Psychological aspects of racial and gender identity in contemporary literature.
  • The representation of the subconscious in surreal and absurd literature.
  • The application of psychological resilience theories in survival literature.
  • The portrayal of parental influence on child development in family sagas.
  • Psychological theories of aging as explored in literature about the elderly.
  • The depiction of sensory processing disorders in fictional characters.
  • Psychological effects of immigration and cultural assimilation in diaspora literature.
  • The role of narrative therapy in autobiographical writing and memoirs.
  • The portrayal of obsessive-compulsive disorder in narrative fiction.
  • Psychological implications of virtual realities in cyberpunk literature.
  • The representation of psychopathy in anti-hero characters.
  • The exploration of group dynamics and leadership in epic tales.
  • Psychological interpretations of magical realism as a reflection of cultural psyche.
  • The use of literature in the therapeutic practice and understanding of mental health issues.
  • The influence of Christian theology on medieval epic poems.
  • The role of allegory in interpreting medieval morality plays.
  • The depiction of chivalry and courtly love in Arthurian legends.
  • Comparative analysis of the heroic ideals in Beowulf and the Song of Roland.
  • The impact of the Black Death on the themes of medieval poetry and prose.
  • The portrayal of women in medieval romances.
  • The use of dreams as a narrative device in medieval literature.
  • The representation of the otherworldly and supernatural in medieval texts.
  • The function of medieval bestiaries in literature and their symbolic meanings.
  • The influence of the Crusades on medieval literature across Europe.
  • The evolution of the troubadour and trouvère traditions in medieval France.
  • The depiction of feudalism and social hierarchy in medieval narratives.
  • The role of satire and humor in the Canterbury Tales.
  • The impact of monastic life on medieval literary production.
  • The use of vernacular languages in medieval literature versus Latin texts.
  • The portrayal of sin and redemption in Dante’s Divine Comedy.
  • The literary responses to the Mongol invasions in medieval Eurasian literature.
  • The development of allegorical interpretation in medieval biblical exegesis.
  • The influence of Islamic culture on medieval European literature.
  • The representation of Jewish communities in medieval Christian literature.
  • The concept of kingship and rule in Anglo-Saxon literature.
  • The use of landscape and nature in medieval Celtic stories.
  • The role of pilgrimage in shaping medieval narrative structures.
  • The depiction of witchcraft and magic in medieval texts.
  • Gender roles and their subversion in Middle English literature.
  • The literary legacy of Charlemagne in medieval European epics.
  • The portrayal of disability and disease in medieval literature.
  • The use of relics and iconography in medieval religious writings.
  • The medieval origins of modern fantasy literature tropes.
  • The use of cryptography and secret messages in medieval romance literature.
  • The influence of medieval astronomy and cosmology on literary works.
  • The role of manuscript culture in preserving medieval literary texts.
  • The depiction of Vikings in medieval English and Scandinavian literature.
  • Medieval literary depictions of Byzantine and Ottoman interactions.
  • The representation of sermons and homilies in medieval literature.
  • The literary forms and functions of medieval liturgical drama.
  • The influence of classical antiquity on medieval literary forms.
  • The use of irony and parody in medieval fabliaux.
  • The role of the troubadour poetry in the development of lyrical music traditions.
  • The impact of medieval legal texts on contemporary narrative forms.
  • The influence of urbanization on narrative form in Modernist literature.
  • Stream of consciousness technique in the works of Virginia Woolf and James Joyce.
  • The role of symbolism and imagery in T.S. Eliot’s poetry.
  • The depiction of the World War I experience in Modernist novels.
  • The impact of Freudian psychology on Modernist character development.
  • The intersection of visual arts and narrative structure in Modernist poetry.
  • The critique of imperialism and colonialism in Modernist texts.
  • The representation of gender and sexuality in Modernist literature.
  • The influence of technology and industrialization on Modernist themes.
  • The use of fragmentation and non-linear narratives in Modernist fiction.
  • The evolution of the novel form in Modernist literature.
  • The role of existential philosophy in shaping Modernist themes.
  • The critique of traditional values and societal norms in Modernist works.
  • The portrayal of alienation and isolation in the Modernist era.
  • The impact of Jazz music on the rhythm and structure of Modernist poetry.
  • The role of expatriate writers in the development of Modernist literature.
  • The influence of Russian literature on Modernist authors.
  • The exploration of time and memory in Modernist narrative techniques.
  • The depiction of urban alienation and anonymity in Modernist literature.
  • The role of patronage and literary salons in the promotion of Modernist art.
  • The impact of cinema on Modernist narrative techniques.
  • The representation of religious doubt and spiritual crisis in Modernist texts.
  • The influence of Cubism on the form and structure of Modernist poetry.
  • The use of irony and satire in the critiques of Modernist society.
  • The interplay between Modernist literature and the emerging psychoanalytic discourse.
  • The depiction of the breakdown of language and communication in Modernist works.
  • The role of the anti-hero in Modernist novels.
  • The impact of existential despair on the themes of Modernist literature.
  • The representation of the New Woman in Modernist fiction.
  • The influence of Eastern philosophies on Modernist thought and writings.
  • The critique of materialism and consumer culture in Modernist literature.
  • The role of myth and narrative reconfiguration in Modernist poetry.
  • The depiction of war trauma and its aftermath in Modernist literature.
  • The representation of racial and ethnic identities in Modernist works.
  • The impact of avant-garde movements on Modernist literary forms.
  • The influence of European intellectual movements on American Modernist writers.
  • The role of the flâneur in Modernist literature and urban exploration.
  • The exploration of linguistic innovation in the works of Gertrude Stein.
  • The critique of historical progress in Modernist narratives.
  • The impact of existentialism on the depiction of the absurd in Modernist theatre.
  • The representation of colonial impact on identity in postcolonial narratives.
  • The role of language and power in postcolonial literature.
  • The portrayal of gender and resistance in postcolonial women’s writings.
  • The depiction of hybridity and cultural syncretism in postcolonial texts.
  • The influence of native folklore and mythology in postcolonial storytelling.
  • The critique of neocolonialism and globalization in contemporary postcolonial literature.
  • The exploration of diaspora and migration in postcolonial narratives.
  • The role of the subaltern voice in postcolonial literature.
  • The impact of postcolonial theory on Western literary criticism.
  • The representation of landscapes and spaces in postcolonial works.
  • The portrayal of historical trauma and memory in postcolonial fiction.
  • The exploration of identity and belonging in postcolonial children’s literature.
  • The use of magical realism as a political tool in postcolonial literature.
  • The depiction of urbanization and its effects in postcolonial cities.
  • The role of religion in shaping postcolonial identities.
  • The impact of apartheid and its aftermath in South African literature.
  • The representation of indigenous knowledge systems in postcolonial texts.
  • The critique of patriarchy in postcolonial narratives.
  • The exploration of linguistic decolonization in postcolonial writing.
  • The portrayal of conflict and reconciliation in postcolonial societies.
  • The depiction of postcolonial resistance strategies in literature.
  • The representation of climate change and environmental issues in postcolonial contexts.
  • The role of education in postcolonial literature.
  • The impact of tourism and exoticism on postcolonial identities.
  • The exploration of economic disparities in postcolonial narratives.
  • The representation of refugees and asylum seekers in postcolonial literature.
  • The portrayal of political corruption and governance in postcolonial works.
  • The depiction of cultural preservation and loss in postcolonial societies.
  • The role of oral traditions in contemporary postcolonial literature.
  • The portrayal of transnational identities in postcolonial fiction.
  • The exploration of gender fluidity and sexuality in postcolonial texts.
  • The depiction of labor migration and its effects in postcolonial literature.
  • The role of the media in shaping postcolonial discourses.
  • The impact of Western pop culture on postcolonial societies.
  • The portrayal of intergenerational conflict in postcolonial families.
  • The depiction of mental health issues in postcolonial contexts.
  • The exploration of postcolonial futurism in African speculative fiction.
  • The representation of native resistance against colonial forces in historical novels.
  • The critique of linguistic imperialism in postcolonial education.
  • The depiction of decolonization movements in postcolonial literature.
  • The use of metafiction and narrative self-awareness in postmodern literature.
  • The role of irony and playfulness in postmodern texts.
  • The exploration of fragmented identities in postmodern novels.
  • The deconstruction of traditional narrative structures in postmodern works.
  • The representation of hyperreality and the simulation of reality in postmodern fiction.
  • The critique of consumer culture and its influence on postmodern characters.
  • The exploration of historiographic metafiction and the reinterpretation of history.
  • The role of pastiche and intertextuality in postmodern literature.
  • The depiction of paranoia and conspiracy in postmodern narratives.
  • The portrayal of cultural relativism and the challenge to universal truths.
  • The use of multimedia and digital influences in postmodern writing.
  • The exploration of existential uncertainty in postmodern philosophy and literature.
  • The role of gender and identity politics in postmodern texts.
  • The depiction of postmodern urban landscapes and architecture in literature.
  • The representation of globalization and its effects in postmodern novels.
  • The portrayal of ecological crises and environmental concerns in postmodern fiction.
  • The critique of scientific rationalism and technology in postmodern literature.
  • The exploration of linguistic experimentation and its impact on narrative.
  • The role of the anti-hero and flawed protagonists in postmodern stories.
  • The depiction of social fragmentation and alienation in postmodern works.
  • The representation of non-linear time and its effect on narrative perspective.
  • The portrayal of the dissolution of boundaries between high and low culture.
  • The use of parody and satire to critique political and social norms.
  • The exploration of subjectivity and the breakdown of the authorial voice.
  • The role of performance and spectacle in postmodern drama.
  • The depiction of marginalization and minority voices in postmodern literature.
  • The representation of the interplay between virtual and physical realities.
  • The portrayal of ephemeral and transient experiences in postmodern texts.
  • The critique of capitalism and neoliberal economics in postmodern narratives.
  • The exploration of human relationships in the context of media saturation.
  • The depiction of dystopian societies and their critiques of contemporary issues.
  • The role of surreal and absurd elements in postmodern storytelling.
  • The portrayal of cultural pastiches and their implications for identity formation.
  • The exploration of narrative unreliability and ambiguous truths.
  • The depiction of multiple realities and parallel universes in postmodern fiction.
  • The representation of anarchism and resistance in postmodern literature.
  • The critique of colonial narratives and their postmodern reevaluations.
  • The exploration of therapeutic narratives in postmodern psychology and literature.
  • The role of chance and randomness in the structure of postmodern plots.
  • The portrayal of artistic and cultural decadence in postmodern settings.
  • The impact of humanism on the themes and forms of Renaissance poetry.
  • The influence of Renaissance art on the literature of the period.
  • The role of court patronage in the development of literary forms during the Renaissance.
  • The depiction of love and courtship in Shakespeare’s comedies.
  • The use of classical myths in Renaissance drama.
  • The portrayal of political power in the plays of Christopher Marlowe.
  • The evolution of the sonnet form from Petrarch to Shakespeare.
  • The representation of women in Renaissance literature and the role of gender.
  • The impact of the Reformation on English literature during the Renaissance.
  • The development of narrative prose during the Renaissance.
  • The influence of Italian literature on English Renaissance writers.
  • The role of allegory in Spenser’s The Faerie Queene .
  • The depiction of the supernatural in Renaissance drama.
  • The exploration of identity and self in Renaissance autobiographical writings.
  • The rise of satire and its development during the English Renaissance.
  • The concept of the tragic hero in Renaissance tragedy.
  • The role of travel and exploration narratives in shaping Renaissance literature.
  • The influence of Machiavellian philosophy on Renaissance literary characters.
  • The representation of religious conflicts and sectarianism in Renaissance texts.
  • The depiction of colonialism and its early impacts in Renaissance literature.
  • The portrayal of the city and urban life in Renaissance literature.
  • The use of rhetoric and persuasion in the sermons and speeches of the Renaissance.
  • The depiction of friendship and societal bonds in Renaissance literature.
  • The influence of Renaissance music on the poetic forms of the time.
  • The role of magic and science in the literature of the Renaissance.
  • The treatment of classical philosophy in Renaissance humanist literature.
  • The representation of nature and the environment in pastoral literature.
  • The depiction of courtly and peasant life in Renaissance drama.
  • The influence of Renaissance literature on later literary movements.
  • The portrayal of villains and their motivations in Renaissance plays.
  • The development of printing technology and its impact on Renaissance literature.
  • The role of language and dialect in the literature of the English Renaissance.
  • The depiction of the New World in Renaissance travel literature.
  • The exploration of moral and ethical issues in Renaissance philosophical writings.
  • The impact of Spanish literature on the Renaissance literary scene.
  • The role of soliloquies in deepening character development in Renaissance drama.
  • The treatment of death and mortality in Renaissance poetry.
  • The representation of court politics and intrigue in Renaissance historical plays.
  • The development of comedic elements in Renaissance literature.
  • The exploration of Renaissance literary criticism and its approaches to interpretation.
  • The exploration of nature and the sublime in Romantic poetry.
  • The role of the individual and personal emotion in Romantic literature.
  • The impact of the French Revolution on Romantic literary themes.
  • The representation of the Byronic hero in Romantic novels.
  • The influence of Gothic elements on Romantic literature.
  • The depiction of women and femininity in the works of Romantic poets.
  • The role of imagination and creativity in Romantic theories of art and literature.
  • The portrayal of childhood and innocence in Romantic literature.
  • The influence of Eastern cultures on Romantic poetry and prose.
  • The interplay between science and religion in Romantic texts.
  • The Romantic fascination with death and the macabre.
  • The depiction of landscapes and rural life in Romantic poetry.
  • The role of folklore and mythology in shaping Romantic narratives.
  • The impact of Romanticism on national identities across Europe.
  • The exploration of exile and alienation in Romantic literature.
  • The critique of industrialization and its social impacts in Romantic writing.
  • The development of the historical novel in Romantic literature.
  • The role of letters and correspondence in Romantic literary culture.
  • The representation of revolutionary ideals and their disillusionment in Romantic texts.
  • The exploration of human rights and liberty in Romantic works.
  • The portrayal of artistic genius and its torments in Romantic literature.
  • The depiction of friendship and romantic love in Romantic poetry.
  • The influence of Romantic literature on the development of modern environmentalism.
  • The role of music and its inspiration on Romantic poetry.
  • The exploration of time and memory in Romantic literary works.
  • The depiction of urban versus rural dichotomies in Romantic texts.
  • The impact of Romanticism on later literary movements such as Symbolism and Decadence.
  • The role of melancholy and introspection in Romantic poetry.
  • The representation of dreams and visions in Romantic literature.
  • The depiction of storms and natural disasters as metaphors in Romantic writing.
  • The exploration of political reform and radicalism in Romantic works.
  • The portrayal of the supernatural and its role in Romantic narratives.
  • The influence of Romantic literature on the visual arts.
  • The depiction of heroism and adventure in Romantic epics.
  • The role of solitude and contemplation in Romantic poetry.
  • The exploration of national folklore in the Romantic movement across different cultures.
  • The critique of reason and rationality in favor of emotional intuition.
  • The depiction of the quest for immortality and eternal youth in Romantic literature.
  • The role of the pastoral and the picturesque in Romantic aesthetics.
  • The exploration of spiritual and transcendental experiences in Romantic texts.
  • The role of dystopian worlds in critiquing contemporary social issues.
  • The portrayal of artificial intelligence and its ethical implications in science fiction.
  • The evolution of space opera within science fiction literature.
  • The depiction of alternate histories in fantasy literature and their cultural significance.
  • The use of magic systems in fantasy novels as metaphors for real-world power dynamics.
  • The representation of gender and sexuality in speculative fiction.
  • The influence of scientific advancements on the development of science fiction themes.
  • Environmentalism and ecocriticism in science fiction and fantasy narratives.
  • The role of the hero’s journey in modern fantasy literature.
  • The portrayal of utopias and their transformation into dystopias.
  • The impact of post-apocalyptic settings on character development and moral choices.
  • The exploration of virtual reality in science fiction and its implications for the future of society.
  • The representation of alien cultures in science fiction and the critique of human ethnocentrism.
  • The use of mythology and folklore in building fantasy worlds.
  • The influence of cyberpunk culture on contemporary science fiction.
  • The depiction of time travel and its impact on narrative structure and theme.
  • The role of military science fiction in exploring warfare and peace.
  • The portrayal of religious themes in science fiction and fantasy.
  • The impact of fan fiction and its contributions to the science fiction and fantasy genres.
  • The exploration of psychological themes through science fiction and fantasy narratives.
  • The role of colonization in science fiction narratives.
  • The impact of science fiction and fantasy literature on technological innovation.
  • The depiction of societal collapse and reconstruction in speculative fiction.
  • The role of language and linguistics in science fiction, such as in creating alien languages.
  • The portrayal of non-human characters in fantasy literature and what they reveal about human nature.
  • The use of science fiction in exploring philosophical concepts such as identity and consciousness.
  • The representation of disabled characters in science fiction and fantasy.
  • The influence of historical events on the development of fantasy literature.
  • The critique of capitalism and corporate governance in dystopian science fiction.
  • The role of political allegory in science fiction during the Cold War.
  • The representation of indigenous peoples in fantasy settings.
  • The impact of climate change on the settings and themes of speculative fiction.
  • The exploration of bioethics and genetic modification in science fiction.
  • The impact of globalization as seen through science fiction narratives.
  • The role of women authors in shaping modern science fiction and fantasy.
  • The exploration of sentient machines and the definition of life in science fiction.
  • The use of archetypes in fantasy literature and their psychological implications.
  • The narrative strategies used to build suspense and mystery in fantasy series.
  • The influence of Eastern philosophies on Western science fiction.
  • The portrayal of family and community in post-apocalyptic environments.
  • The representation of the British Empire and colonialism in Victorian novels.
  • The impact of the Industrial Revolution on the social landscape in Victorian literature.
  • The depiction of gender roles and the domestic sphere in Victorian novels.
  • The influence of Darwinian thought on Victorian characters and themes.
  • The role of the Gothic tradition in Victorian literature.
  • The portrayal of morality and ethics in the works of Charles Dickens.
  • The exploration of class disparity and social mobility in Victorian fiction.
  • The depiction of urban life and its challenges in Victorian literature.
  • The role of realism in Victorian novels and its impact on literary form.
  • The representation of mental illness and psychology in Victorian fiction.
  • The critique of materialism and consumer culture in Victorian literature.
  • The portrayal of children and childhood in Victorian narratives.
  • The exploration of romanticism versus realism in Victorian poetry.
  • The depiction of religious doubt and spiritual crises in Victorian texts.
  • The role of women writers in the Victorian literary scene.
  • The portrayal of the “New Woman” in late Victorian literature.
  • The exploration of scientific progress and its ethical implications in Victorian works.
  • The depiction of crime and punishment in Victorian detective fiction.
  • The influence of aestheticism and decadence in late Victorian literature.
  • The representation of imperial anxieties and racial theories in Victorian novels.
  • The role of sensation novels in shaping Victorian popular culture.
  • The portrayal of marriage and its discontents in Victorian literature.
  • The depiction of rural life versus urbanization in Victorian narratives.
  • The exploration of philanthropy and social reform in Victorian texts.
  • The role of the supernatural and the occult in Victorian fiction.
  • The portrayal of art and artists in Victorian literature.
  • The representation of travel and exploration in Victorian novels.
  • The depiction of the aristocracy and their decline in Victorian literature.
  • The influence of newspapers and media on Victorian literary culture.
  • The role of patriotism and national identity in Victorian writings.
  • The exploration of the Victorian underworld in literature.
  • The depiction of legal and judicial systems in Victorian fiction.
  • The portrayal of addiction and vice in Victorian texts.
  • The role of foreign settings in Victorian novels.
  • The depiction of technological advancements in transportation in Victorian literature.
  • The influence of French and Russian literary movements on Victorian authors.
  • The role of epistolary form in Victorian novels.
  • The portrayal of altruism and self-sacrifice in Victorian narratives.
  • The depiction of servants and their roles in Victorian households.
  • The exploration of colonial and postcolonial readings of Victorian texts.
  • The role of translation in shaping the global reception of classic literary works.
  • The impact of globalization on the development of contemporary world literature.
  • Comparative analysis of national myths in literature across different cultures.
  • The influence of postcolonial theory on the interpretation of world literature.
  • The depiction of cross-cultural encounters and their implications in world novels.
  • The role of exile and migration in shaping the themes of world literature.
  • The representation of indigenous narratives in the global literary marketplace.
  • The portrayal of urbanization in world literature and its impact on societal norms.
  • The exploration of feminist themes across different cultural contexts in literature.
  • The depiction of historical trauma and memory in literature from post-conflict societies.
  • The role of magical realism in expressing political and social realities in Latin American literature.
  • The exploration of identity and hybridity in diaspora literature from around the world.
  • The impact of censorship and political repression on literary production in authoritarian regimes.
  • Comparative study of the Gothic tradition in European and Latin American literature.
  • The influence of religious texts on narrative structures and themes in world literature.
  • The role of nature and the environment in shaping narrative forms in world literature.
  • The exploration of time and memory in post-Soviet literature.
  • The portrayal of love and marriage across different cultural contexts in world novels.
  • The impact of technological changes on narrative forms and themes in world literature.
  • The exploration of human rights issues through world literature.
  • The depiction of war and peace in Middle Eastern literature.
  • Comparative analysis of the tragic hero in Greek tragedy and Japanese Noh theater.
  • The role of traditional folk stories in contemporary world literature.
  • The influence of African oral traditions on modern African literature.
  • The exploration of social justice and activism in world literature.
  • The portrayal of children and childhood in world literature.
  • The depiction of the supernatural and the uncanny in world literary traditions.
  • The impact of colonial histories on contemporary literature in former colonies.
  • The exploration of gender and sexuality in Scandinavian literature.
  • The portrayal of disability and mental health in world literature.
  • The role of food and cuisine in cultural identity as depicted in world literature.
  • Comparative study of poetry from the Middle Eastern and Western traditions.
  • The exploration of death and the afterlife in world religious texts and their literary influences.
  • The portrayal of the artist and the creative process in world literature.
  • The impact of economic crises on characters and plot development in world novels.
  • The exploration of architectural spaces and their symbolism in world literature.
  • The role of multilingualism and code-switching in narrative development in world literature.
  • The depiction of aging and intergenerational relationships in world novels.
  • The influence of classical Chinese literature on East Asian modern narratives.
  • The role of the sea and maritime culture in world literary traditions.
  • The portrayal of identity and self-discovery in YA literature.
  • The representation of mental health issues in YA novels.
  • The evolution of the coming-of-age narrative in modern YA fiction.
  • The role of dystopian settings in YA literature as metaphors for adolescent struggles.
  • The depiction of family dynamics and their impact on young protagonists.
  • The treatment of romance and relationships in YA fiction.
  • The exploration of LGBTQ+ themes and characters in YA literature.
  • The impact of social media and technology on character development in YA novels.
  • The portrayal of bullying and social exclusion in YA fiction.
  • The representation of racial and cultural diversity in YA literature.
  • The use of fantasy and supernatural elements to explore real-world issues in YA fiction.
  • The role of friendship in character development and plot progression in YA novels.
  • The depiction of resilience and personal growth in YA protagonists.
  • The influence of YA literature on young readers’ attitudes towards social issues.
  • The portrayal of disability and inclusivity in YA narratives.
  • The role of sports and extracurricular activities in shaping YA characters.
  • The exploration of historical events through YA historical fiction.
  • The impact of war and conflict on young characters in YA literature.
  • The depiction of academic pressure and its consequences in YA novels.
  • The portrayal of artistic expression as a form of coping and identity in YA literature.
  • The use of alternate realities and time travel in YA fiction to explore complex themes.
  • The role of villainy and moral ambiguity in YA narratives.
  • The exploration of environmental and ecological issues in YA literature.
  • The portrayal of heroism and leadership in YA novels.
  • The impact of grief and loss on YA characters and their journey.
  • The depiction of addiction and recovery narratives in YA literature.
  • The portrayal of economic disparities and their effects on young characters.
  • The representation of non-traditional family structures in YA novels.
  • The exploration of self-empowerment and activism in YA literature.
  • The depiction of crime and justice in YA mystery and thriller genres.
  • The role of mythology and folklore in crafting YA fantasy narratives.
  • The portrayal of exile and migration in YA fiction.
  • The impact of YA literature in promoting literacy and reading habits among teens.
  • The exploration of gender roles and expectations in YA novels.
  • The depiction of peer pressure and its influence on YA characters.
  • The portrayal of escapism and adventure in YA fiction.
  • The role of magical realism in conveying psychological and emotional truths in YA literature.
  • The exploration of ethical dilemmas and moral choices in YA narratives.
  • The depiction of the future and speculative technology in YA science fiction.
  • The portrayal of societal norms and rebellion in YA dystopian novels.

We hope this comprehensive list of literature thesis topics empowers you to narrow down your choices and sparks your curiosity in a specific area of literary studies. With 1000 unique topics spread across 25 categories, from traditional to emerging fields, there is something here for every literary scholar. The diversity of topics not only reflects the dynamic nature of literature but also encompasses a range of perspectives and cultural backgrounds, ensuring that every student can find a topic that resonates deeply with their scholarly interests and personal passions. Utilize this resource to embark on a thought-provoking and intellectually rewarding thesis writing journey.

Literature and Thesis Topic Potential

Literature encompasses a vast and vibrant spectrum of themes and narrative techniques that mirror, critique, and reshape the complex world we live in. For students embarking on the challenging yet rewarding journey of thesis writing, delving into the multitude of literature thesis topics can unlock profound insights and present significant scholarly opportunities. This exploration is not merely an academic exercise; it is a deep dive into the human experience, offering a unique lens through which to view history, culture, and society. Engaging with literature in this way not only enhances one’s understanding of various literary genres and historical periods but also sharpens analytical, critical, and creative thinking skills.

Current Issues in Literature

One prevailing issue in contemporary literary studies is the exploration of identity and representation within literature. This includes examining how narratives portray race, gender, sexuality, and disability. The rise of identity politics has encouraged a reevaluation of canonical texts and a push to broaden the literary canon to include more diverse voices. Such studies challenge traditional narratives and open up discussions on power dynamics within literature.

Another significant issue is the impact of digital technology on literature. The digital age has introduced new forms of literature, such as hypertext fiction and digital poetry, which utilize the interactive capabilities of digital devices to create multifaceted narratives. This shift has led to new interpretations of authorship and readership, as the boundaries between the two blur in interactive media. Thesis topics might explore how these technological innovations have transformed narrative structures and themes or how they affect the psychological engagement of the reader.

Environmental literature has also emerged as a poignant area of study, especially in the context of growing global concerns about climate change and sustainability. This trend in literature reflects an urgent need to address the relationship between humanity and the natural world. Theses in this area could examine narratives that focus on ecological disasters, the anthropocene, or the role of non-human actors in literature, providing new insights into environmental ethics and awareness.

Recent Trends in Literature

The recent trend towards blending genres within literature has led to innovative narrative forms that defy conventional genre classifications. Works that fuse elements of science fiction, fantasy, and historical fiction challenge readers to engage with literature in new and complex ways. These hybrid genres often address contemporary issues through the lens of speculative or fantastical settings, offering fresh perspectives on familiar problems. Thesis topics in this area could explore how these blended genres comment on societal issues or how they represent historical narratives through a fantastical lens.

Another noteworthy trend is the increasing prominence of autobiographical and memoir writing, which highlights personal narratives and individual experiences. This shift towards personal storytelling reflects a broader societal interest in authentic and individualized narratives, often exploring themes of identity, trauma, and resilience. Students could develop thesis topics that analyze how these works serve as both personal catharsis and a social commentary, or how they use narrative techniques to blur the lines between fiction and non-fiction.

Global literature, written in or translated into English, has expanded the geographical boundaries of literary analysis and introduced a plethora of voices and stories from around the world. This trend not only diversifies the range of literary works available but also introduces new themes and narrative strategies influenced by different cultural backgrounds. Thesis research could investigate how global literature addresses universal themes through culturally specific contexts, or how it challenges Western literary paradigms.

Future Directions in Literature

As literature continues to evolve, one of the exciting future directions is the potential integration of literary studies with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. These technologies could lead to new forms of literary creation and analysis, where AI-generated literature becomes a field of study, or where machine learning is used to uncover patterns in large volumes of text. Thesis topics might explore the ethical implications of AI in literature, the authenticity of AI-authored texts, or how AI can be used to interpret complex literary theories.

Another future direction is the increasing intersection between literature and other disciplines such as neuroscience, psychology, and anthropology. This interdisciplinary approach can deepen understanding of how literature affects the human brain, influences behavior, or reflects cultural evolution. Students could develop theses that examine the neurocognitive impacts of reading fiction, or how literary studies can contribute to our understanding of human culture and societal development.

Finally, the role of literature in addressing and influencing social and political issues is likely to increase. As global challenges like migration, inequality, and climate change persist, literature that addresses these issues not only provides commentary but also raises awareness and fosters empathy. Future thesis topics could focus on how literature serves as a tool for social justice, how it influences public policy, or how it helps shape collective memory and identity in times of crisis.

The exploration of literature thesis topics offers students a panorama of possibilities for deep academic inquiry and personal growth. By engaging deeply with literature, students not only fulfill their academic objectives but also gain insights that transcend scholarly pursuits. This exploration enriches personal perspectives and fosters a profound appreciation for the power of words and stories. The pursuit of literature thesis topics is thus not merely academic—it is a journey into the heart of human experience, offering endless opportunities for discovery and impact.

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children's literature thesis topic

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Children's Literature - Updated: Topics in Children's Literature

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Schools ; Children's Literature'

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Bainbridge, Judith. "Storybook schools : representations of schools and schooling in British children's fiction 1820-1880." Thesis, University of Roehampton, 2015. https://pure.roehampton.ac.uk/portal/en/studentthesis/storybook-schools(dd59298f-a634-4e4e-9d3f-7071a3364ee1).html.

Rahman, Shireena Basree bt Abdul. "The Implementation of the Contemporary Children's Literature Program in Malaysian Primary Schools." Thesis, University of Reading, 2007. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.485821.

Manno, Annette Christine. "Teaching about conflict and values through children's literature." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 1999. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/1526.

Al-Nokhada, Mohamed A. H. "Children's literature, their books and reading interests : a study in primary schools in Bahrain." Thesis, Durham University, 1999. http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/4862/.

Raby, Shauna Rae. "Children's Literature in the Elementary Schools: Which Books Are Being Chosen for Literacy Instruction?" Diss., CLICK HERE for online access, 2006. http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/ETD/image/etd1496.pdf.

Bandré, Patricia Ellen. "The status of the selection and use of children's literature in K-6 rural Ohio public school classrooms." Connect to resource, 2005. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc%5Fnum=osu1121782590.

Klein, Gillian. "The development of multicultural and antiracist books for use in schools 1973-1993." Thesis, Birmingham City University, 1997. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.363175.

McCreery, Elaine. "Promoting children's spiritual development in education : a review of the literature and an exploration of teachers' attitudes." Thesis, Roehampton University, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.326828.

Yarmolovich, Daryl. "Bias in children's literature : a descriptive and analytical case study of two schools at different socio-economic levels /." Staten Island, N.Y. : [s.n.], 2005. http://library.wagner.edu/theses/education/2005/thesis_edu_2005_yarmo_bias.pdf.

Staas, Gretchen L. (Gretchen Lee). "The Effects of Visits by Authors of Children's Books in Selected Elementary Schools." Thesis, North Texas State University, 1987. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331813/.

Humphrey, Judith Ann. "Liberating images : a feminist analysis of the girls' school-story." [n.p.], 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/.

Briggs, Connie Craft. "The Use of Nonfiction/Informational Trade Books in an Elementary Classroom." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1994. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc277870/.

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  • v.10(1); 2020

Children’s literature to promote students’ global development and wellbeing

Manuela pulimeno.

1 PhD Candidate in Human Relations Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy

2 UNESCO Chair on Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy

Prisco Piscitelli

Salvatore colazzo.

3 Department of History, Society and Human Studies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy

Background: Tales were transmitted from one generation to another, enriching young people with values, beliefs, imagination and creativity. Children’s literature still plays a crucial part in education as it provides knowledge and entertainment, representing a typical example of "edutainment". In this paper, we carried out a review to examine pedagogic, didactic and psychological/therapeutic dimensions of children’s literature, with the aim of highlighting its role in promoting students’ holistic development and wellbeing.

Methods: We have searched for original articles (from 1960s to 2019), by using the following keywords: "fairytales" or "fairy tales" or "folktales" or "fables" AND "education" or"development" or "learning" or "teaching" or "school" or "curriculum" or "classroom" AND "children" or "child" or "kids" or "childhood" AND "health" or "wellbeing".

Results: We found 17 studies concerning pedagogic aspect of children literature, while 21 and17 studies were selected for didactic and therapeutic dimensions, respectively. From a pedagogic point of view, tales convey basic values useful for children lives. In a didactic perspective, properly chosen storybooks represent a valuable resource for school activities, improving students’ language skills and building up a friendly/respectful classroom environment. Children stories are also used by health professionals for therapeutic purposes (bibliotherapy) to prevent unhealthy habits and addictions, or address psychosomatic disorders. Finally, storybooks and web-based/digital stories can be an effective vehicle for health contents, to encourage the adoption of healthy lifestyles among schoolchildren.

Conclusion: Children’s literature and storytelling could be helpful in promoting students’ global development and wellbeing, when included in school curricular activities.

Introduction

Myths, fables and fairytales – originally founded on oral tradition – allowed adults to communicate with young people in an uninterrupted process until nowadays. 1 Tales have been told everywhere and in every time to educate, entertain and increase individuals’ awareness about moral principles and customs, thus representing an important part of traditional heritage as well as a way to reinforce tolerance and mutual knowledge among different populations. 2

Reading or listening to tales can be considered significant community practices, capable to impact on young generations, empowering and preparing them for the future. 3 Since culture is crucial for learning, stories have a fundamental part in shaping individual’s role in the society, becoming a helpful resource from didactic, psychological/therapeutic and pedagogic perspectives. 4

From a didactic point of view, storybooks can provide children with new information about the world, enrich vocabulary and enhance specific language skills (in the classroom or at home), nurturing communication between the storyteller (teacher, parent or other professional staff) and the listeners. 5 , 6

It is known that stories – by reproducing fictional situations that match with children’s real problems – allow them to feel comfortable and safe in difficult circumstances, ensuring emotional security and providing healthier ways to deal with internal struggles, life adversities and stressors. 7 Story-tales compensate what young people may lack, by presenting them positive patterns of behaviours and constructive models through the characters they could identify with. 8

Storybooks (or digital tales) are easier to understand for all children compared to abstract notions or theories, and might become special instruments for mapping the reality and conveying health contents, especially to the most vulnerable groups. 9 , 10

As suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO), health literacy should be incorporated in school curricula, in the context of a health-promoting classroom environment, in order to provide new generations with useful knowledge about healthy lifestyles. 11 - 13 Actually, school represents the ideal setting to perform health-related interventions and positively influence students’ wellbeing as well as their academic achievements. 14 - 16 The final goal is to involve young generations in practical actions about healthy habits (i.e. balanced nutrition and physical exercise) and prevention of risky behaviours (such as cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, drug use) through a personal re-elaboration of health knowledge.In our previous systematic review, we have provided evidence for taking into account narrative-based strategies among the possible highly motivating approaches to encourage schoolchildren in adopting healthy eating habits since childhood. 17 , 18 More broadly, in this paper we explored the rationale for using children’s literature and storytelling in school setting to promote students’ global development and wellbeing.

Material and Methods

A narrative review has been carried out in order to analyze the pedagogic, didactic and psychological/therapeutic dimensions of children’s literature, highlighting the potential of narrative-based strategies in fostering students’ global development and wellbeing. Starting from January 2019, over a five-month period in the context of PhD in Human Relations Science of Bari University (Italy), we have searched on Web of Science for original articles and books, published from 1960s to 2019, by using the following keywords: “fairytales” or “fairy tales” or “folktales” or “fables” AND “education” or “development” or “learning” or “teaching” or “school” or “curriculum” or “classroom” AND “children” or “child” or “kids” or “childhood” AND “health” or “wellbeing”. We summarized definitions of health, presenting “wellbeing” (in its three dimensions of physical, emotional/mental and social health) as the main goal of every educational practice, and school system as the ideal setting to display health-related interventions. We also used citation tracking to detect other papers concerning children literature and narrative-based strategies (from oral storytelling to printed books and digital resources) as effective operational tool for conveying health contents to promote global development and wellbeing in school setting, along with the prevention of risky behaviours. Finally, we have provided brief definitions of children’s literature, presenting some historical insights about its pedagogic or didactic use, and psychological/therapeutic applications (bibliotherapy and narrative medicine).

Children’s literature is broadly defined as any creative literary work that has been especially written and designed for children’s use. 19 Only in the 18th century, with the evolving of the concept of childhood, a separate genre of children’s literature was created. 20 Modern children’s literature comprises short fairytales and fables, picture books, comics, cartoons, novels, nursery rhymes that can be potentially appreciated by most children. 21 In our search, we selected 17 studies concerning pedagogic dimension of children literature, 20 , 22 - 37 while 21 and 17 studies were chosen as addressing didactic 1 , 5 , 38 - 56 and therapeutic dimensions, 6 , 7 , 57 - 71 respectively ( Table 1 ).

Children’s literature as narrative tool in education: pedagogic dimension

The crisis we are facing is not only economic and financial, but also political, cultural and ethical, generating anxiety and fear due to the perception of a precarious existence in the context of a growing individualism and insensitivity to other people’s difficulties. Moreover, our society measures everything in terms of monetary value, giving priority to scientific/technological knowledge and decreasing the relevance of human sciences, which have nurtured the traditional humus of citizenship education. 72

Despite educational system is dealing worldwide with several challenges, school still represents the ideal setting to display interventions aimed at promoting students’ holistic development. Beyond its specific commitment, it is essential to build up healthy, respectful and satisfied citizens: the future adults capable to take care about themselves, the others and the environment. 24 , 73

In the globalization era, characterized by deep socio-economic changes and collapse of the traditional social tissue (i.e. new forms of poverty, increase of inequalities, family mobility etc.), the cultural heritage of folktales – easily available both for parental and teachers’ use – could represent a helpful tool for promoting individual personal growth, social cohesion and sustainable development. 2

Tales were told and are still told in every society and in many different settings to share experiences, customs, norms, and values, providing the listeners with entertainment and new knowledge. 25 In the “culturalistic” perspective, children’s stories belong to a specific cultural niche that could help young people to move into the life, allowing them to understand who they are as human beings and how they can contribute to the progress of the world. 26

Children’s literature continues to be a significant opportunity of presenting moral principles in an enjoyable and engaging way 27 and it is growing fast along with the aim to entertain, educate and provide new knowledge (in line with the new concept of “edutainment”), being able to integrate fun and adventure demanded by children (simulating the activity of free play) with the adults’ objective of offering them a set of moral examples. 20 , 28

A big part of children’s literature is represented by fairytales, which have the final goal of transmitting the basic universal values, and raising children’s awareness on many aspects of the life. 29 That’s why, even before printing press was invented, fairytales have been used by parents to transmit culturally appropriate moral norms to their children from an early age, equipping them with information, attitudes, and skills that could act as a kind of “vaccination” against all kind of threats to individual or collective health. 30

The most famous example fulfilling these criteria can be found in “Pinocchio”, written by Carlo Lorenzini (Collodi) to make children aware about the consequences of adopting wrong behaviours. 31 , 32 Similarly, in Germany, the Grimm Brothers presented noble values and positive models in their amazing adventures, helping children to understand what is good and what is bad. 33

Tales are very interesting for children because they show real aspects of family and community life, reinforcing the relations with the parents and highlighting ethical values related to social life. 34 , 35 Through implicit meanings embodied in the stories, children indirectly acquire pedagogical messages, able to influence their global personality and stimulate a social sense of duty. 27

Children’s stories are the place of endless possibilities, so that young people can open their mind to wide horizons, generate new viewpoints, find possible alternatives or solutions to problems, cultivating their points of strengths such as self-confidence and resilience. 36

The role and importance of children’s books have changed in modern society, but even today, children’s literature (including movies and digital resources) influences our daily lives and contributes to the development of young people in a number of ways, ranging from the transmission of values to didactic purposes. The presence of digital technology represents a challenge but also an opportunity for traditional fairytales’ or fables’ existence. Digital storytelling (the combination of the art of telling stories with a variety of multimedia tools) is a helpful instrument to generate more appealing and stimulating learning experiences. 37

Actually, printed publications tend to be expensive, while the Internet-based resources are a cheap alternative (usually available online for free), and might raise children’s interest towards books in many different ways. Combining narrative possibilities and technological potentials can be more powerful in terms of access to information, sharing of work, differentiated and motivated learning models. However, there is a fundamental distinction (at least in terms of establishing good relationships with educators) between watching a fairy tale on monitors (static and passive approach or even by computer-based interactive mode) and listening to a live re-telling of it. 22 , 23 , 74

Didactic dimension of children’s literature

The didactic intention of narrative works was discovered on clay tablets in Sumerian and Babylonian texts, dated back many centuries before Aesop’s fables (successively put into Latin verses by Phaedrus). Myths initially transmitted orally became well-known throughout the Mediterranean area thanks to Greek manuscripts of Alexandrian scribes, who used them in their daily education activities. Also philosophers (i.e. Plato) introduced myths and fables in their academic lessons with students and disciples: the rules of grammar and style were learned through the stories, encouraging young scholars to create new ones. Fables of Aesop were considered as useful didactic means also in medieval schools to teach Latin and rhetoric. 1

Even today, children’s literature – as integral part of primary school curriculum – could be a significant experience in the lives of children, with fables and fairytales being used as motivating teaching tools in both humanistic and scientific disciplines. 38 - 40 Educators are aware that all creative and artistic activities, including literature – while entertaining listeners or readers – can play a fundamental role in improving students’ knowledge, but also in the acquisition of daily life skills, useful to cope with any problematic situations. 41

Childhood is a crucial stage for language development, 75 so it is important to make it a pleasing experience: reading or listening to stories could be a joyful way for language training, able to overcome all the possible learning barriers. 42 - 44 Thanks to the recurring narrative passages intrinsic in the fairy tales’ or fables, child is able to deal with some complicated concepts or patterns, which require more repetitions to be better interiorized. That’s why tales are a valuable resource in teaching foreign languages and improving language skills (writing, reading, speaking and listening). 45 The use of narrative in teaching foreign languages has been found to lower the level of anxiety, allowing students to take risks in the language classes, thanks to the familiarity with stories and the relaxing learning environment generated by storytelling. Therefore, telling or reading stories is a successful strategy to acquire grammar structures, syntax, new vocabulary, increasing oral/written competences, and therefore the ability to communicate effectively and successfully. 46

By reading or listening to stories, students enhance their verbal proficiency and learn to accurately express their thoughts and feelings in everyday relations, making practice of peace-making skills (i.e. negotiation and discussion). 47

Learning from stories can stimulate and offer promising insights in other areas of children’s cognitive development such as problem-solving and reasoning skills. 48 Educators should awaken children’s interest towards reading and, at the same time, encourage them to use imagination, finding themselves inside the story; once children become attached to their favourite characters, they can reproduce them while playing, following the time chain and cause-effect relation of narrated events, so that the educational message of the stories can be better interiorized. 5 , 49 Educators should also be aware about their own responsibility when selecting children’s books for didactic purposes (not necessarily following popular titles or “best sellers”), and read the stories in a caring and warm environment. 50 Storybooks are accessible to students of all ages and can be borrowed from libraries or friends, while digital storytelling can be easily and quickly found on the Internet, even for free. 51

Multicomponent narrative-based approaches integrate traditional tales or other specifically developed storybooks, with audio and video resources (including those available on the Internet), cartoons, animated films, puppets or scenic elements. 23 , 52 , 53 Theatre reading or dramatization of children’s literature can be used at school to overcome the risk of short attention span of schoolchildren, and when dealing with difficult textbooks. Reader’s theatre in the classroom involve students as actors as they were really acting on the stage, while the teacher is guiding the scene and giving suggestions to the characters. In a study investigating the impact of readers’ theatre over six weeks, students assigned to the theatre class showed significant progress in reading level, compared to a control group who received more traditional literary and vocabulary education. The readers’ theatre class presented better fluidity in reading and expression, enriched vocabulary, and increased motivation compared to the control group. 54 Finally, it can be said that storytelling activities (including reader’s theatre) in school setting represent innovative didactic experiences, capable to build up also health knowledge and promote students’ global wellbeing. 55 , 56

Therapeutic dimension of children’s literature

Children’s storybooks not only provide new knowledge – by enriching children’s vocabulary and enhancing their communication skills – but also ensure emotional support during problematic circumstances of the life. Encouraging children to overcome fears and inner conflicts, tales act as promoters for change, positively influencing their social behaviour. 57

When parents or teachers provide children with a book, they usually hope that they will absorb the moral values that it contains. 58 - 60 Actually, fairytales can produce positive effects on personality development, satisfying all psychological needs of the children such as contact, entertainment, and cognitive demand. In the Freudian perspective, assuming the absence of a well-defined superego and moral standards in childhood, fairytales are useful to show proper patterns of behaviours needed by children. 61

Children’s literature – as a form of artistic creativity – presents a therapeutic potential for readers and listeners, in the same way that Greek tragedy was able to “heal” the spectators. 62 , 63 In the vision of the cathartic role of literature, we can say that it may influence children through psychological mechanisms, primarily consisting in involvement, imitation, identification, insight and universalism. Story-tales could be used in school-setting for primary prevention programs with the ultimate goal of preventing risky behaviours among young people, thanks to the potential of creative and artistic means such as specifically-developed children’s storybooks. Actually, narrative-based approach as a teaching and learning strategy is omnipresent in the classrooms, but it is infrequently used to promote students’ health. 64

Literature, as well as other forms of art (music, dance, drama, drawing, painting etc.) can be used to empower and motivate children towards the adoption of healthy behaviours, contributing to the improvement of pupils’ quality of life. The educational properties of the stories allow young people to accept their own differences, while showing how the characters of the tale cope with difficulties, enabling readers to enter in a fantastic world of entertainment, and – at the story’s end – to come back into reality in a comfortable way. 65

The main goal of art therapy in education is the holistic human development, to be accomplished by working on imagination, curiosity, and creativity, which represent all the basic features to be preserved in children, along with the natural needs of joy and play. 66 , 67 Artistic activities present also the potential of breaking down cultural barriers, actively involving the most vulnerable and marginalized children, as assessed in a study examining the effect of a creative expression program designed to prevent emotional and behavioural problems in immigrant and refugee students attending multi-ethnic schools. 76 This vision has been already adopted by the famous violinist Menuhin and his Foundation, to help vulnerable and disadvantaged children by using music and other form of arts. 77

Within the broad umbrella of art therapy, we can find “library therapy”, which S.M. Crothers in 1916 has turned into the term “bibliotherapy”, characterized by the fact that the treatment is carried out by the means of literature, using books to foster individual emotional wellbeing. Understanding the principles and practices of bibliotherapy is essential for teachers and educators, working with children, who may take benefit from the exposure to reading materials related to their specific problems.

The “healing” potential of books was known since the time of the ancient Greece and even before: Ramses II in Egypt identified a group of books in his collection as “remedies for the soul”. Aristotle and other Greek philosophers believed that literature could deeply heal people, while the ancient Romans recognized the existence of a relationship between medicine and reading, with Aulo Cornelius Celso explicitly associating the reading with medical treatment. This attitude towards therapeutic opportunities of books was cultivated even in the Middle Age and Humanism/Renaissance times, but also in the late eighteenth century books were proposed as a remedy for different types of illnesses. Today, literature is somehow considered as psychological therapy, especially in childhood, and even as a cure for psychosomatic disorders. 6

In the therapeutic approach, bibliotherapy includes also discussion and reflection on the story’s topics that overlap with the individual needs and have an evocative function that relies on projection and identification mechanisms. Proper storybooks work as a strategy for attitudinal change and self-improvement, acting through a compensatory function in children who lack of positive experiences which are often missing in their family or community. 68 Therapeutic reading can also represent a form of prevention as the readers acquire a more flexible mind to recognize problems and eventually ask for help. There are books that address questions concerning physical appearance, emotions and character traits, family relationships, and socioeconomic problems. 69 Bibliotherapy can be also applied in the field of psychotherapy for the treatment of minor disorders, eating behaviours and some forms of addictions, from alcohol and tobacco to drugs and ludopathy. 7

Narrative medicine, an emerging discipline in healthcare field – which embraces medicine, psychoanalysis and literature – is used to overcome individual traumatic experiences. It helps patients and health professionals to tell and listen to the complex and unique stories of illness through an active approach (subjects are invited to compose poetic or literary pieces) or passive mode (consisting in reading already existing pieces). 70 , 71

Efficacy of narrative-based strategies to promote health and wellbeing in school setting

Health is defined by WHO Constitution as “a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing”. 78 WHO has demonstrated that many early deaths can be avoided if each stakeholder in the society takes its piece of responsibility in promoting healthy lifestyles. 79 Health promotion and prevention represent two sides of the same coin being both focused on proactively maintaining people healthy. 80 Primary prevention should start as early as possible and school has the opportunity to guide people since childhood on the right path towards healthy life. Actually, education and health are intertwined, and it is undoubtable that wellbeing has also a remarkable impact on students’ learning outcomes. School represents the ideal setting to convey proper contents about risk and protective factors 81 by using motivating approaches (including “teaching narratively”), able to capture the interest of pupils and generate a harmonic and non-competitive learning environment. 82 Narration can be regarded as an interesting way to trigger students’ motivation 82 and develop a “narrative thinking”, which is fundamental for every human experience, including learning and interiorization processes. 83 - 86 Specifically developed storybooks can foster children’s self-responsibility towards health and stimulate critical thinking about the consequences of adopting risky behaviours (i.e. unhealthy eating habits), thanks to psychological processes based on the identification with the characters of the stories. 17 Actually, children literature and storytelling have been proved to be effective in specifically conveying health knowledge: the persuasive effects of narrative engagement have been illustrated in many researches and reviews. 87 - 95 De Graaf et al have specifically performed a systematic review of 153 experimental studies on health-related narrative persuasion with a focus on the narrative characteristics as potential explanatory factors in the effectiveness to convey a health message. 87 , 88 The results showed that stories that presented a healthy behaviour were more often associated with effects on the intention to adopt it, and stories with high emotional content were usually more effective, as well as the use of a first or second-person perspective in the text. No differences were observed between the media used for the narrative intervention (book or video etc.), while the familiarity of the setting and the way of displaying the health message in the narrative was found to be a promising persuasive factor. 88 Shen and Han assessed 25 studies comparing narrative to non-narrative messages, showing a significant effect of narrative for primary prevention and detection of risky behaviours, but not for cessation of negative attitudes (e.g., quitting smoking). 89 Zebregs et al included 15 studies that recorded positive persuasive effects of narrative. 91 Braddock and Dillard metanalyzed 74 studies that compared narrative-based interventions to a control group that did not receive any relevant message. 92 Their results showed that, compared to a baseline zero-effect, narrative had positive effects on story-consistent beliefs, attitudes and intentions. By reviewing 45 studies, Tukachinsky et al concluded that engagement with the narrative and its characters was positively related to attitudes and intentions implied by the narrative itself. 93 Other authors have focused on the persuasive effects resulting from the “transportation” into a narrative world: when children read, they “enter” into tales and act out together with the characters. 94 Dahlstrom et al have shown that it is important to consider whether the persuasive message is integrated in the causal structure of the narrative or not. 95 Stories with two opponent main characters seem to have an impact on narrative persuasion in the context of social issues, while tales presenting a transition of the characters from unhealthy to healthy behaviour may be particularly beneficial. 90 Moreover, the content and form of the narrative - such as characters, events, and the setting of the story - are very important: characters can be more or less similar to the readers, thus producing a different persuasive effect. 96 , 97 A further dimension relevant to health-related “narrative persuasion” is the context of the presentation used in the narrative: an entertainment format where the reader is unaware that the narrative has a persuasive intention or a narrative frame in which the persuasive intent is more explicit. 98 - 100 In addition to narrative characteristics, variables related to target recipients – like the predisposition to become engaged in narratives and prior knowledge of the readers – as well as the environment/situation in which the story is narrated may increase or reduce the engagement and effectiveness of narrative-based interventions. 101 , 102 Most likely, the full process of persuasion is determined by the interaction of narrative, recipient and situational factors (such as noise in the environment) that can distract the student and decrease engagement. It should be emphasized that contents of the stories must be close to the children and the main character’s mental states needs to be as much as similar to the feelings of the child. Finally, it seems that multicomponent approaches including printed stories or tales told by a health educator in a face-to-face settings (i.e. live storytelling) can produce effects on beliefs, attitudes, intentions and even on the behaviours of recipients. 103

Oral and written tales are part of a collective memory, maintained from one generation to the next as an intangible cultural heritage for the transmission of moral values (i.e. Homer’s epic poems). As emphasized by the UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2003, folktales play a dynamic role in bringing people closer together, thus ensuring knowledge exchange among different cultures and increasing the respect for others in a tolerant peaceful way.

At the start of 21st century, school system faces new challenges worldwide, pushing educators to display innovative strategies in order to motivate students and engage them in stimulating and “transformative” learning. 104 This perspective goes beyond the passive acquisition of knowledge, moving toward a more active, experiential and participatory approach to lifelong learning. 105 The adoption of cooperative practices into daily classroom activities can contribute to the enhancement of students’ wellbeing, lowering the competition and anxiety due to the pressure of success, currently detectable among schoolchildren. 80

To achieve these goals, narrative interventions may be considered as one of the possible strategies for teaching and learning because children’s stories create the comfortable atmosphere that is usually lacking in school setting. 5 , 106

Since ancient times, myths, legends, fables and fairytales have supported individuals to understand who they are as human beings and the world around them, allowing people to map the reality through the use of words and language. 107 , 108

From fairytales and fables – plenty of adventures, heroes, personified animals, enchanted forests and magical objects – children gain additional experiences, feelings and thoughts, learning to cope with inhibitions, vulnerability, and shyness. According to the psychoanalytical interpretation, children’s stories lead readers towards a deep level of consciousness, dealing with the fundamental human questions expressed in the language of symbols. Beyond its educational purposes, children’s literature can positively influence mental wellbeing, nurturing thoughts, feelings and behaviours of young generations. 63

Stories – as a kind of creative form of art – help children to fight (like the heroes) for good things and success in their life, satisfying their spirit of play, spreading good mood, with benefits on physical health, mental brightness and moral virtue. These latter represent the three dimensions of wellbeing – pillars for the integral growth of the child – in the perspective of building up the future mature and socially active man. 109

Children’s literature presents a strong pedagogical component and should be regarded as a real educational strategy with the potential of being incorporated into school curricula. Learning experiences carried out in a friendly school environment generate improvement of emotional health and better academic achievements 8 , 110 - 116 A properly chosen book stimulates children’s power of observation, reason, memory and imagination, broadening the range of experiences, compelling the readers to reflect on their behaviours, and find out possible solutions to their troubles while providing entertainment. A famous sentence of Albert Einstein was: “If you want your children to be intelligent, tell them fairytales; if you want your children to be more intelligent, tell them more fairy tales”. 117 Unfortunately, in today’s busy society, adults lack the time to talk with children, so that reading or telling stories could represent a great opportunity of constructive exchanges in the family and at school. 28

Multicomponent narrative-based approaches (storytelling, role-playing, games, post-reading activities) are able to satisfy children emotional needs, provide sensory input, increase attention span, and shape the aesthetic taste. 43 , 44 The power of listening and speaking is able to create artistic images and induce schoolchildren to produce their own stories or tales. This is well accomplished by introducing them to literature from early childhood, and ensuring them interesting, funny and attractive materials. Telling or reading a story is cheap, pleasing, inclusive, it can be used in any setting without special equipment except the imagination. 50 , 118 Moreover, it generates catharsis, resulting in reduced anxiety, better comfort, self-esteem, thus helping young people to cope with any adversity and improving communication of feelings.

According to Richard-Amato, 119 students find themselves in the characters or narration, and learn how to behave adequately while facing similar situations in the future life. 6 It happens that the child becomes aware about the topic of the story, unconsciously solves the problems, increasing self-confidence, with positive implications for personality development. 119 By developing the imagination and creativity, children can discover new ideas and increase personal motivation to achieve their objectives. Albert Einstein was used to say: “When I examine myself and my methods of thought, I come to the conclusion that the gift of fantasy has meant to me more than any talent for abstract or positive thinking”. 117

Finally, it can be considered also the contribution of literature to stimulate individual agency, applying the already acquired knowledge, to make the world more fit to human needs. 120 In this perspective, the Italian writer Leonardo Sciascia was used to say that if he did not believe that literature could produce a change, he wouldn’t have continued to write. 121

Stories are also able to convey health information about prevention of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Several researches highlight the role of storytelling as a source of beneficial effects in primary prevention. Reading a storybook or listening to stories is helpful for children as it promotes pupils’ emotional expression and psychological wellbeing; it can be used to stimulate changes in young people lifestyles, encouraging them in practicing physical activity and reducing the consumption of sweets and soft-drinks, ultimately resulting in a measurable reduction of body mass index in specific cohorts. 122

Bibliotherapy facilitates behaviour´s externalization, promotes empathy and prosocial behaviours, and helps solving problems such as bullying and teasing, which represent common situations in every school. Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of treating bullying through bibliotherapy, that can become an innovative approach to promote a respectful school environment. A huge amount of children’s stories has been used in order to prevent and give other perspectives on bullying, demonstrating that children’s books can serve as a useful channel of exchange between parents, teachers and children. An example for that is the Child Adolescent Teasing in Schools (CATS) book review project and website, where – after the exposure to a fictional story about teasing and bullying – children share their own experience and are guided to develop successful coping strategies against teasing and bullying occurring at school. 123

Children’s books have been also used to let students learn peaceful alternatives to the violence of modern society, focusing on conflicts prevention in the classroom and the way for overcoming the problem. 124 This has led to the creation of specific lists of books which help children to better understand and cope with some situations of discomfort such as traumatic stresses.

“Therapeutic libraries” have been established for paediatric patients or their families in hospital setting according to the vision that literature can help children to improve their quality of life, reducing stress and pain levels associated with the hospitalization process. 125

In a randomized trial, a combination of storybooks and workshop sessions have been successfully tested in primary prevention programs for anxiety management, showing a significant improvement in coping skills and perceived self-efficacy: every session was based on a story describing characters facing common stressors and how they deal with their daily problems. 126 It can be said also that children’s literature offers strategies to overcome the anxiety and the fear of the unknown, stimulating reflection and re-elaboration of personal criteria to be applied in real life. 127 Bibliotherapy is used in school setting (from primary to high school) to foster social and emotional growth, offering the opportunity to find a deeper understanding of self, solutions to personal problems and enhanced self-image. 128 , 129

Finally, as demonstrated by the worldwide success of self-help manuals, bibliotherapy could be a helpful resource to reduce unhealthy food habits for the prevention or treatment of obesity, as well as in supporting who want to quit smoking or other addictions both in young people and adults. 130 - 132

Limitations of this work are mainly due to the initial design of the study, representing an exploratory work that found few on-field experiences concerning the use of narrative-based strategies to promote health and wellbeing among schoolchildren. A future work, carefully planned as systematic review, could take advantage from the findings of this first attempt, in order to better refine a comprehensive search in scientific literature.

Children’s literature offers young people the possibility to acquire a system of values (educational role), to be engaged in motivating learning activities (didactic aspect), and to deal with inner conflicts and life difficulties (psychological value). Based on international evidence, children’s literature and specifically developed storybooks can encourage the adoption of healthy choices and represent a useful preventive tool to foster young people’s global wellbeing, helping them to better cope with emotional/social problems while proposing proper patterns of behaviours and conveying health contents. 133 - 136 Children’s literature is a helpful tool to “educate”, “teach” and “heal”, so that narration could be considered among the possible educational strategies which can be used for pedagogic, didactic and therapeutic applications in the promotion of children’s global development both at home and at school.

Implications for practice

This review indicates that children’s literature not only presents a strong pedagogical and didactic value, but it can also generate benefits for global development and wellbeing of young people. Moreover, children’s literature can be regarded as a flexible instrument that facilitates the transmission of health contents to the students, allowing teachers to become “health educators”. Narrative-based strategies have the potential to be integrated as useful approach in the school curricular activities to specifically convey health contents (at least in primary and secondary school). 135 , 136 Being able to impact emotional experiences and individual motivation, children’s literature should be considered as a powerful educational tool also for health professionals, who can take advantage from the use of stories to spread health information. Actually, narration is a “transformative” mean that can be useful – in the frame of educational contexts – especially for the prevention of obesity, risky behaviours and addictions (cigarette smoking, alcohol, drugs, bet). Finally, beyond the possibility to prevent future diseases at individual level, thanks to well-designed narrative-based interventions in school setting, children can become themselves “health promoters” and “inter-generational multipliers” of desirable effects by influencing in a positive way their families and community. In this perspective, the use of children’s literature to convey health contents and promote wellbeing in school children might represent an interesting instrument to foster collective health.

Ethical approval

This review did not need any formal approval from ethical committee.

Competing interests

There are no competing interests concerning this article. This research has been carried out in the frame of institutional activities of the PhD in “Human Relations Sciences” of Bari University and UNESCO Chair on Health Education and Sustainable Development, without receiving any external funding or economical support from third parties.

Authors’ contributions

MP, PP and SC have conceived, prepared, written, approved and revised the manuscript.

Acknowledgments

Authors are grateful to Prof. G. Mininni, Director of PhD Course in Human Relation Sciences at University of Bari “Aldo Moro”.

Literature Dissertation Topics

The opportunity for you to demonstrate your critical writing skills and ability to manage existing scholarship, a literature dissertation allows you to make your mark on the world of academia. Much longer than a typical essay, the extensive nature of a literature dissertation allows you to examine a specific text and explain its significance, and how it relates to broader literary movements.

The choice of texts that you engage with is up to you, but you should bear in mind that you’ll get higher grades for an original dissertation. As literature is influenced by and in discourse with other disciplines, a dissertation in this field will often mean that you’ll refer to ideas found in philosophy, religion, psychology and other art forms. To help you get started with your dissertation, this article will suggest possible topics in the areas of seventeenth century literature, eighteenth century literature, nineteenth century literature, twentieth century literature, and children’s literature.

Seventeenth- and Eighteenth-Century Literature Dissertation Topics

Nineteenth century literature dissertation topics, twentieth century literature dissertation topics, interdisciplinary subjects dissertation topics, identity and place in the literature dissertation topics, children’s literature dissertation topics, postcolonialism and literature dissertation topics, eco literature dissertation topics.

From the shifting social and political climate of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries emerged a whole new kind of fiction. Indeed, with the birth of the novel came a host of writers who used the form to obliquely commentate on the world around them. Using established literary strategies such as plot and metaphor, writers also began to experiment with interior monologues and innovative dramatic devices to express their ideas to readers. For provoking and relevant subjects for your literature dissertation, consider the following topics:

  • Milton and the Bible.
  • Paradise Lost and the Fall from Grace: A closer look at the redemption poetry of the seventeenth century.
  • The Genesis Myth and popular literature of the seventeenth century.
  • Love, loss and the geographical imagination in the poetry of John Donne.
  • The first literary explorers: How new discoveries shaped the literary imagination of the seventeenth century.
  • Stendhal and the onset of consumerism.
  • Visions of nature: Wordsworth and the Eighteenth-Century poetical imagination.
  • Interiors and interiority in the Eighteenth-century novel.
  • Samuel Taylor Coleridge and the problem of the aesthetic.
  • The origins of the novel.
  • How Paradise Lost shaped the future of the novel.
  • The female voice: How girls became women in seventeenth century fiction.
  • How and why Laurence Sterne exposed the artifices of fiction.

Responding to the fall of the pastoral and the rise of industry, the English literature of the nineteenth century reflects the drastic changes Britain underwent around this time. Celebrating new ways of living whilst mourning the past, novels and poetry became distinctly national in nature. At the same time, writers examined the effects that secularisation had on the individual and their view of life. Indeed, whilst meaning was a fixed concept for people in centuries gone by, radical scientific advancement and an increased religious doubt caused Victorians to consider their place in the world from a wholly different perspective. For these reasons, the nineteenth century in literature is a period defined by alienation, doubt, and, overall, the question of what it means to live in an increasingly unfamiliar world. Nineteenth century literature provides many topics that you could study for a literature dissertation.

  • Love and loss in Thomas Hardy’s poems 1912-13.
  • Recovering the buried life: Visionary aspiration in the poetry of Matthew Arnold.
  • Love and communication in the poetry of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
  • Bulwer-Lytton and the metaphysical tradition.
  • George Eliot and religious doubt.
  • Naturalist and mystic: Discovering the source of Richard Jefferies’ inspiration.
  • Searching for the simple life: Rustic writing in the nineteenth century.
  • A study of provincial life: Trollope writing after Austen.
  • The importance of costume in the work of Dickens.
  • Micro and macro: Understanding the power relations in The Old Curiosity Shop and Bleak House.
  • Sex and violence in sensation fiction.
  • The changing religious imagination of the nineteenth century.
  • How politics changed literature in the nineteenth century.
  • Gender representation in the gothic novel.
  • The changing meaning of the Victorian family in the work of Gaskell.
  • Ruskin and heritage.
  • How Realism emerged in nineteenth century literature.
  • Reading the romance: how the Bronte sisters redefined the novel.
  • How Frankenstein anticipated Science Fiction.

An era defined by significant aesthetic and philosophical shifts; the twentieth century produced some of the most remarkable literature. Indeed, with the boundaries between prose and poetry being disrupted, a whole new kind of expression became available to writers of fiction and verse. A century marked by two major traditions, the first fifty years was given over to modernism, whilst the latter half of the century saw the emergence of postmodernism. Whilst these two literary movements are seemingly opposed to one another, both attempted to express a range of ideas related to psychology, philosophy, and society. For this reason, you may consider the following topics for your literature dissertation:

  • “Heaving into Uncreated Space”: D.H Lawrence after Hardy.
  • Visionary closure in the twentieth century novel.
  • W.H Auden and poetic syntax.
  • Comprehending the War: Ivor Gurney and the new poetic form.
  • Water imagery in the work of Virginia Woolf.
  • ‘Is there anything more to be Found?’: T.S Eliot and the Wasteland.
  • Ted Hughes and Seamus Heaney: A study of similarity and contrast.
  • ‘Daring to break convention’: The tragedy of Sylvia Plath.
  • Time and Space in The Time Machine and The Island of Dr Moreau.
  • Alduous Huxley and the search for the ‘Other’.
  • Discussing the notion of being in the work of Milan Kundara.
  • A study of character and identity in the work of Ian McEwan.
  • Freud and early modernism.
  • Circular narrative structure in the work of May Sinclair.
  • Experiments in Form: Joyce and the twentieth century.
  • Bernard Malumud and Jewish writing.
  • Magic and fantasy in the work of Robert Louis Stevenson.
  • Kipling’s India.
  • Jack Kerouac and travel writing.
  • A study of the similarities and differences between modernism and postmodernism.
  • How postmodernism attempted to destroy the novel.
  • Lost in the Funhouse: How John Barth exposed the artifices of fiction.

Literature intersects with many areas of study, including philosophy, architecture, religion, sociology, art, history, and politics. Interdisciplinary study is more than placing literature within the context of another discipline – true interdisciplinary research yields insights into the techniques, themes and contexts of texts that can’t be fully understood using the disciplinary tools of literary study alone. Interdisciplinary dissertations use research from more than one subject and examine the benefits and limitations both of literary study and of the other discipline. The topics in the following list reflect these aims, and are possibilities for your language and literature dissertation:

  • Architecture in the work of Thomas Hardy.
  • Science and the nineteenth-century novel.
  • Interpreting the space age: Literature of the twenty first century.
  • Astronomy and the poetic imagination of the nineteenth century.
  • Why philosophy matters to literature.
  • Crossing the disciplinary boundaries: English literature and archaeology.
  • Changing political relations in novels since 1900.
  • The interrelation of science and the arts since 1900.
  • Psychology and the modern novel.
  • Memory and perspective in Kazuo Ishiguro’s The Remains of the Day.
  • Seeking the self: Psychology in twenty first century literature.
  • Darwin and the evolutionary narrative.
  • The importance of history in deciphering the modern text.
  • Sister Arts: contemporary poetry and painting. Poststructuralist views of language and the postmodern text.
  • Print culture, mass distribution, and their effects on the literature of the Renaissance.
  • A sociolinguistic analysis of The Twilight series.

The themes of identity and place have been intertwined in many literary periods and genres. Apart from using landscape as a source of inspiration, authors often need landscapes to help contextualise and develop their characters. Narrative techniques associated with landscape are often used in novels to portray the inner lives of characters. Identity is closely related to, and often described as being a product, of place and its cultural associations. Therefore, a study in this subject can be useful in other areas of future research and offers an accessible, adaptable and relevant topic for your language and literature dissertation.

  • Changing landscapes: how the rural/urban divide has been represented since 1900.
  • Travel writing in the twentieth century.
  • What were the effects of ‘Enclosure’ on the poetry of the Romantics?
  • The importance of place to the Romantic poet.
  • The changing portrayal of city living since 1900.
  • Nature, narrative, and verse since 1940.
  • Thomas Hardy and Wessex.
  • Richard Jefferies’ Wiltshire.
  • The Lake District as setting in poems of the eighteenth century.
  • The Mountain as a symbol in the nineteenth century.
  • Landscape and identity in Lesley Glaister’s Honour Thy Father.
  • Writing in the desert: Narratives of Africa.
  • Identity, place, and narrative in postcolonial literature.
  • The importance of the sea in colonial exploration narratives.
  • Cornish landscapes in the work of Thomas Hardy.
  • D.H Lawrence and the Sussex Landscape.
  • Dylan Thomas and the Sea.
  • Ted Hughes and the Yorkshire Moors.
  • Of Bawn and Bog: the Irish troubles and the North in Seamus Heaney’s poetry.
  • John Fowles at Lyme Regis.
  • Charles Kingsley and ‘Westward Ho! ‘.
  • Representations of the Wealden Forest in Literature since 1800.
  • The beach as a site for change in literature since 1900.
  • Citizens of nowhere: dislocation and globalisation in post-9/11 fiction.
  • Wilderness and settler nationhood in North American fiction and poetry.

Writing for children involves the effective use of imagination, humour and often, the sensitive and dynamic use of tradition. As a result, children’s literature is often imbued with complex themes and imagery, which speaks to adults and children on separate yet complementary and intersecting levels. When choosing a topic to write about on children’s literature it can be useful to target a specific age range to avoid making generalisations and to help recognise the differing levels of academic competence associated with different children’s ages. It’s also helpful to understand what is at stake in society’s understanding of what makes for appropriate children’s literature, which goes to the heart of what – and how – we teach our children. Children’s literature addresses universal themes that concern all readers – not just children. The challenge in pursuing a dissertation in children’s literature is therefore to address both the universality of the themes and the specificity of the audience. The following are some ideas that you could use for your language and literature dissertation:

  • What makes an Epic?: A discussion of favourite children’s novels since 1900.
  • Fabulous Beasts: Imagery in J.K. Rowling and Tolkien.
  • Discovering Wonderland: Narrative technique and visionary insight in the work of Robert Louis Stevenson.
  • The search for Utopia in Island Stories for children.
  • Beatrix Potter and the significance of illustration.
  • Animals and their function in children’s literature since 1900.
  • Hans Christian Anderson and the meaning of the fairytale.
  • Why humour matters in children’s literature.
  • Lucy Maud Montgomery and the development of the young artist.
  • Roald Dahl, the ridiculous and the sublime.
  • Enid Blyton and the popular adventure story.
  • A historical analysis of the origins of children’s literature.
  • The importance of names in children’s literature.
  • Reading to the under-fives: developing imaginations and relationships.
  • Helping children to learn through storybooks.
  • What the Victorians read to their children.
  • Think of the children! What banning books for the young tells us about the importance and social contexts of reading.
  • Representations of disability in young adult literature.

Postcolonialism is one of the most influential theories in academia. If you are interested in critical perspectives that touch upon issues of race, belonging, power, politics, and emancipation, then you might want to bring postcolonial perspectives into your dissertation. Here are some titles to consider:

  • Exploring the ‘Other’ in Victorian fiction.
  • Postcolonialism in Naipaul’s The Enigma of Arrival.
  • How has the Black Lives Matter movement influenced contemporary black literature?
  • A postcolonial reading of contemporary refugee literature.
  • Postcolonialism and climate change literature.
  • A postcolonial reading of Achebe’s Things Fall Apart.
  • Postcolonial narratives in Toni Morrison’s Beloved and Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things.

‘Ecocriticism’ studies the relationship between literature and the natural world. It is a fast-growing area of study, fuelled mainly by the increased concern over climate-change and environmental protectionism. If you are interested in the natural world, you might feel inspired to write a dissertation in this area. You could choose to do a close-reading of a book that deals with the themes of nature. Or you might analyse if/how ecocritical books have inspired real-life environmental activism. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Exploring the intersection between eco and spiritual narratives in Matthiessen’s The Snow Leopard.
  • An eco-critical reading of poetry from the Romantics.
  • Vegan narratives in Margaret Atwood’s MaddAddam trilogy.
  • Ecocriticism as vegan/climate change activism?
  • Exploring the relevance of Thoreau’s Walden in 2021.
  • Exploring the effect of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring on US activism.
  • Covid-19, eco-criticism and the contemporary novel.

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Your Guide to Graduate Studies in Children’s Literature

children's literature thesis topic

Children’s Literature is one of the fastest-growing and most popular fields of graduate study worldwide.

Learn More ↗

After all, who wouldn’t want to spend their graduate years diving back into childhood favorites?

That’s why I chose to enter this field, way back in 2005, when I began my children’s literature PhD . The thought of spending three years reading Winnie-the-Pooh , Where the Wild Things Are , and The Hunger Games was just too irresistible (and still is!).

With so many options available to you, however, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, I’ll walk you through what to look at and where to look, so you can plan your graduate degree with confidence.

What are Children’s Literature Studies?

Children’s literature studies can be broadly defined as the study of texts and media intended for or created by children.  the study of children’s literature, therefore, includes the history, reception, use, and critical analysis of such texts..

Children’s literature studies have broadened out into related fields: childhood studies, children’s culture, writing for children, and so on.

Studies in these areas range across a wide array of disciplines, including (but not limited to) literary criticism, education, history, cultural studies, psychology, sociology, business, media studies, creative writing, and cognitive science.

Obvious reasons to study children’s literature at the graduate level include career paths in teaching, librarianship, and children’s publishing and authorship, but these are far from being the only careers open to children’s literature graduates.

For example, according to one expert, “[c]hildren’s literature and child psychology are sibling disciplines” ( Blos , 1978, p. 101). A thorough understanding of children’s literature can be a bridge to important conversations and can help people connect when they have trouble expressing themselves or their emotions. As such, children’s literature graduate studies are a fantastic adjunct to a career in child psychology or counselling.

Children’s literature is also renowned for its complex exploration of social crises across time and cultures. As one sociologist explains, “I believe that works of [children’s] fiction are important because … [they] can expose readers to information about social systems, about inequality, about gender stratification and racism” ( Singer , 2011, p. 308). Children’s literature studies are therefore a great support for anyone thinking of entering fields such as social work, criminology, or public policy.

It is therefore worth thinking outside the box when considering a master’s or PhD in children’s literature.

Where Should I Study Children’s Literature?

children's literature thesis topic

There are several institutions well-known for their top-quality programs in children’s literature, both within and outside of the United States. Here are six you should definitely consider looking into.

Penn state: graduate certificate in children’s literature.

Penn State’s Graduate Certificate is supported by faculty with expertise ranging from clinical medical health to curriculum and instruction and literary studies. Geared particularly towards students with an interest in teaching or librarianship, this Act 48–approved program is both rigorous and focused.

Reading University: M(Res) in Children’s Literature

Reading University’s M(Res) is delivered by internationally published specialists in children’s literature, culture and, media, and dating back to 1984, it is the oldest MA in Children’s Literature in the UK taught in a department of English Literature (as opposed to being classes as an Educational or Library Studies degree). Although the formal title of the degree is M(Res), this is in fact a “taught” degree that includes a 20,000-word dissertation project working with one of the program’s specialist supervisors. In the program, students study a wide range of Children’s Literature, as well as issues concerning childhood, history, culture, and media.

Hollins University: Graduate Program in Children’s Literature and Children’s Book Illustration

As anyone who loves children’s literature knows, the words are often only half of the picture—the other half being, well… pictures. Hollins University’s program is one of only a very few offering combined training in writing and illustrating children’s books. This program is a fantastic option for any aspiring children’s author.

University of Pittsburgh: Children’s Literature and Childhood Studies PhD

One on the pioneering children’s literature programs in the country, Pitt’s PhD program offers opportunities for archival studies, interdisciplinary projects, and access to the Elizabeth Nesbitt  and  Nietz Old Textbook  Collections. The program also supports graduate teaching opportunities, making this a good starting place for students thinking of continuing in academia.

University of British Columbia (CA): Master of Arts in Children’s Literature

The only children’s literature master’s program offered in Canada, this degree is taught by a multidisciplinary faculty and is designed to “give the graduate academic study of children’s literature a perspective on the full life cycle of the literature—the creation of the literature … its critical analysis … and pedagogical approaches to the literature in interaction with children in schools, homes and libraries.”

University of Roehampton, UK: MA in Children’s Literature – Distance Learning

The University of Roehampton started offering its distance education children’s literature program long before the Pandemic forced other institutions to jump on the virtual bandwagon. This flexible, part-time MA includes membership to the National Centre for Research in Children’s Literature (NCRCL) and access to the department’s specialist digital children’s literature library of “critical, theoretical, bibliographical and reference works,” including around forty children’s literature journals. The program also partners with some of the top research institutions in the country, including IBBY , Seven Stories , and Booktrust . This program is particularly good for students interested in careers in children’s publishing.

children's literature thesis topic

How Can I Get Started Choosing a Topic?

Completing graduate studies in children’s literature is going to involve a lot of reading and research, so there is no better way to get started than by trawling books, journal articles, and association websites for trending and interesting topic ideas..

There are many academic journals dedicated to the study of children’s literature, and most of them offer at least some reviews and articles as free, open-access content. To get started, try Bookbird ,  Jeunesse , Research on Diversity in Youth Literature , ChLA Quarterly , Children’s Literature in Education , and The Lion and the Unicorn . As well as reading recent articles, it is worth scanning the lists of titles to see what scholars are researching, publishing, and thinking about right now.

Another good idea is to look frequently at the websites of children’s literature associations. These organizations, many of which are associated with specific journals, exist to support children’s literature scholarship. Their websites frequently publish calls for papers and proposals (a good way to see what’s trending in children’s literature research), recent news, and scholarship and funding opportunities. To start, try these: The Children’s Literature Association (ChLA), The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), The American Association of School Librarians (AASL), The International Research Society for Children’s Literature (IRSCL), The Children’s Book Council (CBC), The Centre for Research in Young People’s Texts and Cultures (CRYTC), and The Australasian Children’s Literature Association for Research (ACLAR).

What if I Need Help with My Application?

Applying to a graduate studies program can be challenging, but the good news is that you don’t have to face it alone. especially within a tight-knit community like children’s literature studies, there are plenty of experienced others who have been through the process before and are more than happy to lend a helping hand to incoming students..

Your first and most important source of information is your current professors and tutors. They know your skills and strengths best and can help you identify the best information to include in your application. They can also offer the best advice when it comes to optimizing your current program of studies for future graduate study success.

When it comes to the nitty-gritty of creating a resume, cover letter, portfolio, and other application documents, your college careers center is a valuable resource. Make sure you let them know the details of the programs you are considering, including any specific application requirements. You might also want to consider dissertation coaching —if you can afford it, the help and support of a coach with expertise in this field can save you a lot of time and stress.

A less obvious but no less valuable source of help for incoming graduate students is mentors within the children’s literature field. Reach out to individuals teaching in the programs you are considering to ask about their research, share your ideas, and ask about your “fit” for the program. You can also find mentors within the children’s literature studies organizations listed above, especially on committees focused on graduate/student affairs. Don’t be afraid to start early when it comes to networking within the field.

Finally, a step you definitely don’t want to neglect is to reach out to the admissions office of the institution or the department chair for the program you are interested in. Ask about current opportunities, the department’s ideal candidate, and what you can do to impress the admissions committee.

Children’s literature is one of the most exciting and rewarding fields of study to work in. I hope this article has given you the tools you need to get started!

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children's literature thesis topic

Children's Institute 2024: A Bookseller’s Mardi Gras

Children’s institute returns to new orleans for networking, education, authors to meet, and literary lagniappe..

Children’s and YA booksellers will roll into the Crescent City Monday–Wednesday, June 10–12, for Children’s Institute 2024. “If you’ve attended Children’s Institute in the past, then you know there’s a celebratory quality to it,” says ABA CEO Allison Hill. “Children’s Institute in New Orleans means that quality is magnified 100 times by our very special host city. We can’t wait.”

As of May 1, 377 booksellers from 255 bookstores had registered to attend ABA’s 11th annual summer gathering, a tally that includes 58 first-time attendees. They’ll meet upwards of 60 authors at book signings and receptions, participate in education sessions, and visit publisher and exhibitor booths to learn about catalogs, industry tools, and sidelines. And they’ll leave with totes full of swag (namely books and ARCs) from the galley room.

A fais-do-do (Cajun dance party) of jazz, zydeco, and drumline medleys seems appropriate for the locale and nonstop activities to “pass a good time,” as the locals would say. “Baldwin & Co., with thanks to our publisher cosponsors, is graciously hosting attendees for a welcome to NOLA reception” on June 9, Hill says. In a city renowned for its carnival atmosphere, “booksellers are already planning their costumes for the opening reception costume party and their book selection for the book swap dinner on June 10. And that’s just the first 24 hours.”

Children’s Institute last convened in the Big Easy in 2018 with approximately 300 booksellers in attendance, and Gen de Botton, ABA senior manager of children’s bookselling programs and education, says she’s “thrilled to return.” Six years ago, “an amazing energy bolstered the community, and we set our sights on the future of children’s bookselling. Now we can see how the event has grown not only in attendance but in community.” Sessions will “focus on peer-to-peer learning, resource sharing, and sustainable and equitable approaches to children’s bookselling.”

Highlights will include bookstore tours, a Monday-evening opening keynote with Meg Medina and Tuesday breakfast keynote with Renée Watson (for PW ’s q&as with Medina and Watson, see p. 10 and p. 16, respectively), and a presentation on queer storytelling by authors Rex Ogle and Mark Oshiro. A Wednesday breakfast roundtable, “Spotlight on Black Publishing,” brings together author and Just Us Books cofounder Cheryl Willis Hudson, author and Freedom Fire publisher Kwame Mbalia, Joy Revolution editor Bria Ragin, and ABA DEIA specialist Britt Camacho. Drag Story Hour representatives will conduct a Monday workshop on event safety and emcee a Wednesday afternoon karaoke party.

Hill encourages booksellers “to visit as many independent bookstores as possible, either on the bus tours or on their own.” For those not taking the full-day bus tour, she recommends the workshop “Recruiting, Hiring and Onboarding with an Inclusive and Accessible Lens,” presented by Seattle consultancy Rise with Us. “We all need to stay vigilant about antiracism, inclusion, equity, and accessibility in our industry,” Hill says.

Anticipating another productive gathering in a fabled city, Hill urges ABA members to experience “the food, music, architecture, and amazing independent bookstores of New Orleans, the community of booksellers from all over the country, and the incredible list of authors. Like they say in New Orleans, ‘ Laissez les bons temps rouler ’ Let the good times roll!”

Read more from our Children's Institute Feature:

Children's Institute 2024: Bookselling in the Big Easy

New Orleans indies are vibrant community hubs in one of the liveliest and most colorful cities in the country. They not only sell books -- many offer innovative programming for both adults and children.

Children's Institute 2024: Authors and Illustrators to Meet

More than 60 authors and illustrators will interact with booksellers in New Orleans, during keynotes, panel sessions, dinners, a reception and publisher-sponsored after party, and, of course, the costume party.

Children's Institute 2024: It Takes a Village: PW talks with Meg Medina

Medina, 2023-2024 national ambassador for young children’s literature, spoke with PW about how the village really does raise a child, and her memory of firing a beloved babysitter when she was young.

Children's Institute 2024: The Poetry of Grief: PW Talks with Renée Watson

Watson spoke with PW about writing in prose, the power of community, and holding space for all Black children’s emotions.

Children's Institute 2024: One Man's Treasure: PW talks with Andrew Larsen

Larsen spoke with PW about upcycling, the anthropological significance of garbage, and his forthcoming picture book 'Gifts from the Garbage Truck: A True Story About the Things We (Don’t) Throw Away.'

Children's Institute 2024: Growing New Roots: PW Talks with Ruth Chan

Chan, whose immigrant parents returned the family to Hong Kong after years in Toronto, spoke with PW about the memoir form, culture shock, and getting over teenage insecurities.

Children's Institute 2024: Lift Every Voice and Sing: PW Talks with Cheryl Willis Hudson

Hudson, the co-founder of Just Us Books and a children’s book author, spoke with PW about the enduring impact both of African-American spirituals and of BIPOC indie presses.

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  • Frontiers in Developmental Psychology
  • Cognitive Development
  • Research Topics

Children's Teaching

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About this Research Topic

Teaching is a unique social learning mechanism – it contributes to cumulative culture and allows for the high-fidelity transmission of relevant knowledge and complex tool use. Children are sensitive to teaching from infancy, treating information conveyed with ostensive cues to be generalizable. While much is known about children as learners and their sensitivity to others’ pedagogy, relatively little is known about how children act as agents who propagate knowledge. In recent years, research has revealed that children are discerning benefactors of knowledge: in experimental settings, they selectively teach what is true, generalizable, and difficult to discover. Moreover, children modify their instruction depending on the knowledge state and cognitive capacity of their pupil. In naturalistic settings, children spontaneously engage in teaching, using a variety of teaching strategies at their disposal to share information with their siblings and peers. Given recent advances in the field of children’s pedagogical cognition, we aim to bring together a diverse body of literature on children’s teaching. How do children decide what to teach? Is children’s knowledge of pedagogy related to their learning? What, according to children, makes a good teacher? Does children’s conception of teaching differ between cultures? In what ways can we leverage what we know about children as teachers to inform our educational practices? Gathering answers to these fundamental questions will further our understanding of the meaning of pedagogical practices for children’s lives. For this Research Topic, we welcome contributions on themes such as: Selective teaching Cross-cultural investigations of teaching Relationship between teaching and other processes (e.g., theory of mind, executive function) Children’s understanding of the aims of pedagogy Children’s cognition about teaching and learning Methods may include: Observational Experimental (e.g., transmission experiments) Diffusion-chain studies Focus may include: Early cognitive development (Infancy through Childhood) Manuscripts may be empirical or theoretical Cross-cultural comparison Training studies

Keywords : Pedagogical cognition, social cognition, teaching and learning, cultural evolution, cognitive development

Important Note : All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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    Children's Literature Dissertation Topics. Topic 1: The influence of the intersection of race and bullying in children's books. Topic 2: Diversity of culture in children's literature. Topic 3: The use of literature to shape a child's mind. Topic 4: Evolution of children's literature.

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    There are a number of areas suitable for academic study in the fields of children's and young adult literature. Academic special topics differ from curricular studies in that they require the critical examination of literature for young people through sociological, historical, cultural and theoretical lenses.

  8. PDF What Do We Tell the Children? Critical Essays on Children's Literature

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    This aligns with research, because a study conducted in 2017 claimed that there are. about 4.2 boys with autism for every girl (Zeliadt). Furthermore, girls frequently receive. diagnoses later in life in comparison to boys, so this could also explain the lack of children's.

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    As the compilers of Research in Children's Literature point out, the study of children's literature is growing at a tremendous rate: "In contrast with the period 1960-1965, when only 23 studies related to children's literature were identified in Dissertation Abstracts International, there are at least 31 disserta-tions on the topic dated 1971 ...

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    Diversity and Representation. Issues of diversity and inclusion rose to prominence in 2020 in a number of research areas, and children's studies was no exception. This trend has continued strong in 2021, with a wealth of new publications. Just a few of my recent favorites include Melanie Ramdarshan Bold's " The Thirteen Percent Problem ...

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  16. PDF Şen, E. (2021). Children's literature as a pedagogical International

    research topic. This study also employed narrative inquiry to focus on teachers' personal ... Children's Literature" course for nearly three years within the scope of the Turkish thesis master's program at the Institute of Educational Sciences of Van Yüzüncü Yıl University. Some graduate students, who were teaching at various schools ...

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