Conveying Crises: Literary and Linguistic Explorations

15 credits

How do the ways in which we talk or write about crises shape our understanding of current crises? Conveying Crises is an advanced level course that invites you to explore how language, literature, and other forms of cultural expression represent some of today’s most pressing societal challenges.

In this course, which combines linguistic and literary perspectives, you will examine how crises are communicated in media and artistic production, and how these representations may influence public perception. You will work with tools from critical discourse studies to uncover the ideological dimensions of language and to analyse how word choice, framing, and narrative strategies affect interpretations of social and environmental issues. Alongside linguistic perspectives, you will engage with contemporary fiction and popular culture that tackle topics such as sustainability, climate change, and societal vulnerability. Using narratology, genre theory, and ecocritical approaches, you will investigate how crisis narratives are constructed and how they come to resonate with audiences.

Through seminars, group discussions, and hands on analytical tasks, you will develop strong interdisciplinary skills for interpreting and critiquing crisis communication across different media and genres. The course is relevant for students interested in language, literature, media, sustainability, and cultural analysis.
Join us to deepen your understanding of how crises are shaped—and reshaped—through the stories we tell.

Autumn 2026

Växjö, Half-time, Distance learning

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Education also available as

Växjö, Half-time, Campus

4EN470 Master’s level English Syllabus Half-time, Distance learning English Växjö 31 Aug, 2026 - 17 Jan, 2027 January 15 Some courses and programmes will accept late applications. LNU-F3340

Specific entry requirements: 90 credits in English or Comparative Literature including an independent project of at least 15 credits
Or:
90 credits including an independent project of at least 15 credits in another subject in the humanities or social sciences
Or:
the equivalent

You also need:
English B
Or:
English 6
Or:
English level 2
Or:
the equivalent

100% Higher Education Credits

31,200 SEK 31,200 SEK

Department of Languages

Distance – study where you are

Distance learning can be structured in different ways – it may be entirely online, or include a few on-campus sessions or meetings at one of our learning centres. The common factor is that most of the learning happens online.

You communicate with your teacher and fellow students through a learning platform, which provides access to discussion forums, group work opportunities, and digital meetings. In many cases, you also have access to recorded lectures via the platform.

The advantage of distance learning is its flexibility – ideal for those who want more freedom to decide when and where to study. However, keep in mind that some mandatory elements of your programme may take place during working hours, even if they are conducted online.

Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus

Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.

Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.

With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.

Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.

Build your own degree

Did you know that you can combine single-subject courses to build your own degree? In this way, you can design your own degree based on your interests and the career you are aiming for. This does not apply to all courses so make sure to check with a study counsellor at the faculty. Learn more about how you can build your own degree and become unique on the labour market.