Research methodology & writing a dissertation in English literature (UG-NEP 2020)
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Dr Elangbam Hemanta Singh
Research methodology in English literature involves selecting a research topic, reviewing relevant literature, choosing an appropriate theoretical framework, and analyzing texts critically. Under NEP-2020, students are encouraged to develop analytical and interpretative skills, engage with interdisciplinary approaches, and use digital resources. A dissertation requires a clear thesis statement, structured arguments, proper citations (MLA/APA), and coherence in writing. Primary and secondary sources should be critically examined, and plagiarism must be avoided. The conclusion should summarize findings and suggest further research possibilities. Effective time management and regular consultation with guides ensure quality research output.
Basic concept of research and terminology involved: Research is a systematic process of inquiry aimed at discovering, interpreting, or revising knowledge within a particular field. It follows a structured methodology, involving observation, hypothesis formulation, data collection, analysis, and conclusion. Research can be broadly classified into qualitative and quantitative types, with mixed methods combining both approaches. Key terminologies include hypothesis (a testable prediction), methodology (the framework guiding research design), variables (dependent and independent), and validity (accuracy of results). Creswell (2018) defines research as a “systematic process of collec- ting, analyzing, and interpreting information to increase understanding of a phenomenon.” Kothari (2004) emphasizes the importance of scientific methods in ensuring objectivity and reproducibility. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and data integrity, play a crucial role in credible research. Secondary sources like Cohen et al. (2018) provide insights into research paradigms, aiding scholars in structuring and validating their studies.
Basic Concept of Research in English Literature: Research in English literature involves the systematic study of literary texts, historical contexts, critical theories, and cultural influences. It encompasses various methodologies, including textual analysis, comparative literature, and theoretical criticism. Key terminologies include hermeneutics (interpretation of texts), intertextuality (relationships between texts), narratology (study of narrative structures), and close reading (detailed textual analysis). Abrams and Harpham (2015) who highlight that the literary research often engages with primary sources (original texts) and secondary sources (critical interpretations and scholarly articles). Literary theory plays a significant role, with approaches such as formalism, structuralism, post colonialism, and feminism guiding textual analysis. Eagleton (1996) emphasizes that research in literature is not only about textual meaning but also about its ideological and historical contexts. Research methods include archival research, discourse analysis, and reader-response criticism, all contributing to a deeper understanding of literary works.
Basic Types of Research: Research in English literature can be broadly categorized into theoretical, analytical, historical, and comparative research. Theoretical research explores literary theories, such as structuralism, feminism, or postcolonialism (Eagleton, 1996). Analytical research involves close reading and textual interpretation (Abrams & Harpham, 2015). Historical research examines texts within their socio-cultural and historical contexts (Wellek & Warren, 1949). Comparative research studies literary works across different cultures, languages, or time periods (Damrosch, 2003). These methods help scholars develop critical insights into literature’s meaning, evolution, and impact.
Basic Tools of Research: Research in English literature relies on various tools, including primary sources (original literary texts), secondary sources (critical essays, journal articles, and scholarly books), and bibliographic databases (MLA International Bibliography, JSTOR). Theoretical frameworks such as feminism, structuralism, or postcolonialism (Eagleton, 1996) which guide textual analysis. Digital archives and linguistic corpora (e.g., Project Gutenberg, EEBO) support historical and stylistic research (McGann, 1991). Citation tools like MLA and Chicago Style ensure academic integrity (Gibaldi, 2009). These tools help researchers to develop critical perspectives and contribute original insights into literary studies.
Reference Skills including skills to use dictionaries, encyclopaedias, library catalogues net resources: Effective reference skills are essential for literary research, involving the ability to use dictionaries, encyclopaedias, library catalogues, and online resources.
(To be contd)
Research methodology in English literature involves selecting a research topic, reviewing relevant literature, choosing an appropriate theoretical framework, and analyzing texts critically. Under NEP-2020, students are encouraged to develop analytical and interpretative skills, engage with interdisciplinary approaches, and use digital resources. A dissertation requires a clear thesis statement, structured arguments, proper citations (MLA/APA), and coherence in writing. Primary and secondary sources should be critically examined, and plagiarism must be avoided. The conclusion should summarize findings and suggest further research possibilities. Effective time management and regular consultation with guides ensure quality research output.
Basic concept of research and terminology involved: Research is a systematic process of inquiry aimed at discovering, interpreting, or revising knowledge within a particular field. It follows a structured methodology, involving observation, hypothesis formulation, data collection, analysis, and conclusion. Research can be broadly classified into qualitative and quantitative types, with mixed methods combining both approaches. Key terminologies include hypothesis (a testable prediction), methodology (the framework guiding research design), variables (dependent and independent), and validity (accuracy of results). Creswell (2018) defines research as a “systematic process of collec- ting, analyzing, and interpreting information to increase understanding of a phenomenon.” Kothari (2004) emphasizes the importance of scientific methods in ensuring objectivity and reproducibility. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent and data integrity, play a crucial role in credible research. Secondary sources like Cohen et al. (2018) provide insights into research paradigms, aiding scholars in structuring and validating their studies.
Basic Concept of Research in English Literature: Research in English literature involves the systematic study of literary texts, historical contexts, critical theories, and cultural influences. It encompasses various methodologies, including textual analysis, comparative literature, and theoretical criticism. Key terminologies include hermeneutics (interpretation of texts), intertextuality (relationships between texts), narratology (study of narrative structures), and close reading (detailed textual analysis). Abrams and Harpham (2015) who highlight that the literary research often engages with primary sources (original texts) and secondary sources (critical interpretations and scholarly articles). Literary theory plays a significant role, with approaches such as formalism, structuralism, post colonialism, and feminism guiding textual analysis. Eagleton (1996) emphasizes that research in literature is not only about textual meaning but also about its ideological and historical contexts. Research methods include archival research, discourse analysis, and reader-response criticism, all contributing to a deeper understanding of literary works.
Basic Types of Research: Research in English literature can be broadly categorized into theoretical, analytical, historical, and comparative research. Theoretical research explores literary theories, such as structuralism, feminism, or postcolonialism (Eagleton, 1996). Analytical research involves close reading and textual interpretation (Abrams & Harpham, 2015). Historical research examines texts within their socio-cultural and historical contexts (Wellek & Warren, 1949). Comparative research studies literary works across different cultures, languages, or time periods (Damrosch, 2003). These methods help scholars develop critical insights into literature’s meaning, evolution, and impact.
Basic Tools of Research: Research in English literature relies on various tools, including primary sources (original literary texts), secondary sources (critical essays, journal articles, and scholarly books), and bibliographic databases (MLA International Bibliography, JSTOR). Theoretical frameworks such as feminism, structuralism, or postcolonialism (Eagleton, 1996) which guide textual analysis. Digital archives and linguistic corpora (e.g., Project Gutenberg, EEBO) support historical and stylistic research (McGann, 1991). Citation tools like MLA and Chicago Style ensure academic integrity (Gibaldi, 2009). These tools help researchers to develop critical perspectives and contribute original insights into literary studies.
Reference Skills including skills to use dictionaries, encyclopaedias, library catalogues net resources: Effective reference skills are essential for literary research, involving the ability to use dictionaries, encyclopaedias, library catalogues, and online resources.
(To be contd)