How to Read a Novel (Coursera)

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What makes a great novel? How is a novel woven together? How can we best appreciate works of fiction? Answer these questions and more with this course from The University of Edinburgh and the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Using examples from a range of texts including the four novels shortlisted for the 2024 James Tait Black Fiction Prize, you’ll discover four of the main building blocks of modern fiction on the course: 

  • Week 1 (Plot): Praiseworthy by Alexis Wright
  • Week 2 (Character): Though the Bodies Fall by Noel O'Regan
  • Week 3 (Dialogue): Open Throat by Henry Hoke
  • Week 4 (Setting): Lori and Joe by Amy Arnold


This course is for anyone who enjoys reading.

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Prior to this course, I would pick up a novel and question it's length, purpose and meaning. Hence I stopped reading novels. This course changed my life. I've started reading, and enjoying novels again.
Summary
  • Type of course
    Short course: Study a subject through videos, articles, discussions or quizzes.
  • Cost and certification
    Free, with option to upgrade for a certificate
  • Duration
    4 weeks
  • Weekly effort
    2 - 3 hours
  • Difficulty level
    Introductory: No previous knowledge required
  • Learning platform
    Coursera
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