Research methodology & writing a dissertation in English literature (UG-NEP 2020)

Dr Elangbam Hemanta Singh
Contd from previous issue
Literary dictionaries, such as The Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms (Baldick, 2015), aid in understanding critical concepts, while encyclopaedias like The Johns Hopkins Guide to Literary Theory & Criticism (Groden et al., 2005) provide comprehensive theoretical insights. Library catalogues (e.g., WorldCat) and databases (JSTOR, Project MUSE) enhance research efficiency. Digital literacy skills are crucial for evaluating credible web sources (Beck & Manuel, 2008). Mastering these tools ensures accurate referencing and scholarly rigor in literary studies.  
Stating and Defending a Research Proposal: A research proposal in English literature outlines a study’s objectives, significance, methodology, and theoretical framework. It must present a clear research question, justify its relevance, and engage with existing scholarship (Murray, 2017). Defending a proposal involves demonstrating its feasibility, originality, and contribution to literary studies (Booth et al., 2016). Researchers must critically engage with primary and secondary sources while addressing potential challenges. Strong argumentation, proper citation (MLA/Chicago), and methodological clarity enhance credibility (Gibaldi, 2009). A well-structured proposal establishes the foundation for rigorous academic inquiry and meaningful literary analysis. For example: Title: “The Role of Irony in Jane Austen’s Social Critique: A Study of Pride and Prejudice.” Introduction:  This research examines how Jane Austen employs irony as a literary device to critique gender roles and social class in Pride and Prejudice. Irony functions as both a narrative strategy and a means of social commentary, shaping character development and reader perception. Research Questions: 1. How does Austen use irony to challenge societal norms in Regency England? 2. What is the role of irony in Elizabeth Bennet’s and Mr. Darcy’s character arcs? Methodology: Primary Source: Pride and Prejudice. Secondary Sources: Literary criticism (Eagleton, 1996; Abrams & Harpham, 2015) Approach: Close reading, feminist and narratological analysis. Significance: This study contributes to Austen scholarship by highlighting irony’s role in shaping social critique and narrative technique.  
Conceptualising and Drafting a Research Proposal: Conceptualizing a research proposal involves identifying a clear research problem, formulating objectives, and reviewing exis- ting scholarship to establish context (Murray, 2017). A strong proposal outlines the research question, methodology, theoretical frame- work, and significance (Booth et al., 2016). Drafting requires precise struc- turing, logical argumentation, and proper citation (MLA/Chicago) to ensure academic rigor (Gibaldi, 2009). Researchers must engage critically with primary and secondary sources while anticipating potential challenges. A well-crafted proposal not only guides the research process but also demonstrates originality and feasibility, forming the foundation for scholarly inquiry. An example of a Research Proposal Outline: Title: “Feminist Perspectives in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.” Introduction: This research exa- mines the feminist undertones in Pride and Preju- dice, focusing on Elizabeth Bennet’s defiance of gender norms. Austen’s portrayal of marriage, female agency, and social expectations reflects early feminist thought. Research Questions: 1. How does Elizabeth Bennet challenge traditional gender roles?  2. In what ways does Austen critique the institution of marriage?  Methodology: Primary Source: Pride and Prejudice. Secondary Sources: Feminist literary criticism (Gilbert & Gubar, 1979; Eagleton, 1996) Approach: Close reading, feminist and historical analysis. Significance: This study contributes to feminist literary discourse by reassessing Austen’s work through a gender-focused lens.  
Parts of a Research Proposal: A research proposal consists of essential components that establish the study’s framework. The title defines the research focus, while the introduction presents the research problem, objectives, and significance (Murray, 2017). The literature review contextualizes the study by engaging with existing scholarship (Booth et al., 2016).
The methodology outlines research design, theoretical approach, and data sources (Creswell, 2018). The expected outcomes predict contributions to the field, and the bibliography ensures academic integrity through proper citations (Gibaldi, 2009). These components ensure clarity, feasibility, and scholarly rigor in research planning. Example of a Research Proposal Structure: Title: “Narrative Techniques in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.” Introduction: This research examines how Mary Shelley employs multiple narrators and frame narratives in Frankenstein to enhance the novel’s themes of identity, knowledge, and power.  Literature Review: Previous studies (e.g., Botting, 1995; Levine, 1973) discuss gothic elements, but few explore the novel’s narrative complexity. Methodology: Primary Source: Frankenstein. Secondary Sources: Literary criticism on narration (Genette, 1980; Booth, 1961) Approach: Close reading, narratological analysis. Expected outcomes: This study will highlight Shelley’s innovative narrative techniques and their impact on gothic fiction. Bibliography: Includes critical works on gothic literature and narrative theory.  
Writing a Research Paper for English Literature: Writing a research paper in English literature requires critical analysis, coherent argumentation, and scholarly engagement. It begins with selecting a focused topic, formulating a clear thesis, and conducting a thorough literature review (Booth et al., 2016). A well-structured paper includes an introduction, body paragraphs with textual evidence, and a conclusion (Murray, 2017). Proper citation (MLA/Chicago) ensures academic integrity (Gibaldi, 2009). Close reading, theoretical application, and comparative analysis enhance interpretation (Eagleton, 1996).
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