English, from Declamation to Meditation

In the richness of its course offerings, its small classes typically conducted in a seminar format, and its emphasis on writing and discussion, the department of English exemplifies the academic rigor and standards of excellence found across the Deerfield curriculum. English classes at Deerfield develop students' ability to use and appreciate the English language. All courses stress careful reading, responsible thinking, and clear, precise expression of ideas. Students study works representing a broad range of historical and cultural perspectives, with a particular emphasis during the sophomore and junior years on British and American literature.

A memorable part of every Deerfield student's life is his or her required participation in the department's declamatory experience. In the freshman year, each student selects a three to five minute passage by the author of his choice to read before the class. As a sophomore, every student commits a literary work of merit to memory and shares that work with the class. In the junior year, every student writes his or her own essay, based upon a uniquely American theme chosen by the student, and again presents it by memory. Seniors construct longer essays called meditations, reflections linking personal experience to something larger in the world. The reading of selected meditations at school meetings in the spring has become a treasured Deerfield tradition.

Numerous opportunities to publish work exist in such student publications as Albany Road, Deerfield's literary magazine. In addition, the department publishes its own volume of prize-winning and exemplary student writing, Little Brown House Review. The department occasionally hosts a poet-in-residence, and offers special study opportunities abroad, such as the Cambridge Seminar for seniors during spring break.

Believing that reading remains one of life's great pleasures and an important means of broadening students' horizons of knowledge and experience, the faculty assigns summer reading books, paving the way for themes and coursework students will encounter in their upcoming year.