Course code

EKK7408.HT

old course code

Course title in Estonian

Eesti kirjandus

Course title in English

Estonian Literature

ECTS credits

6.0

Assessment form

Examination

lecturer of 2025/2026 Autumn semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

lecturer of 2025/2026 Spring semester

Not opened for teaching. Click the study programme link below to see the nominal division schedule.

Course aims

To provide the basic knowledge of trends in Estonian literature.

Brief description of the course

The course covers the main trends in Estonian literature and their connection to historical and cultural contexts. Special attention is given to a selected period, authors, or thematic focus in order to understand the role of literature in social processes. The course involves reading and analyzing examples of Estonian literary texts in English, which supports students’ ability to communicate Estonian culture and literature in an international context. Seminars focus on discussing both the content and form of texts, as well as their broader interpretive possibilities. A significant component is the development of critical thinking and academic writing skills: each student produces an analytical essay based on a chosen work, linking theoretical approaches with independent interpretation.

Learning outcomes in the course

Upon completing the course the student:
- is familiar with the main trends in Estonian literature and connects them to historical and cultural contexts;
- has in-depth knowledge of the literary developments and manifestations of a specific period or thematic focus;
- analyzes and interprets Estonian literary texts, applying appropriate theoretical and methodological approaches, either individually or in teamwork;
- critically evaluates literary phenomena of different periods or themes and relates them to broader cultural and societal processes;
- is able to navigate the main trends in Estonian literature and apply in-depth knowledge when analyzing and interpreting a chosen period or thematic focus in seminar discussions, demonstrating critical thinking.

Teacher

Professor Piret Viires

Study programmes containing that course

Estonian Studies (EKESM/25.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/26.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/24.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/23.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/22.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/21.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/20.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/19.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/18.HT)
Estonian Studies (EKESM/17.HT)