Maryville College

Languages and Literature

Languages and Literature at Maryville College

The Division of Literature and Languages is devoted to fostering excellent communication skills in its students and excellence of cultural and intercultural understanding. All the majors in the division – English, Spanish, Writing/ Communication and Teaching English as a Second Language – focus on honing students’ skills in interpreting and expressing ideas through carefully crafted language. In varying degrees, all nurture an awareness of culture and an understanding of differences of culture and worldview.

This sharpening of intercultural understanding and of skills of expression makes great preparation for careers as diverse as law, ministry, teaching, journalism, public relations, publishing, human resource management, politics, social work, diplomacy, management, tourism and labor relations. Simply put, studying in this division will prepare you for any work involving interpreting texts, crafting writing or interacting with people.

Minors in Spanish, French, and German open doors for gaining international experience in study, work or leisure. So whether the mind-expanding experience that you want is on the other side of the world or nestled between the covers of a book, the division of Literature and Languages can provide you with ample opportunities to realize your goals.

Class Favorites

Introduction to Literature in Spanish (SPN262) is a favorite of Spanish major Kelsey White. Tackling poems, short stories, essays and plays from throughout the Spanish-speaking world, students gain more confidence their language abilities. “The enthusiasm Dr. Mitchell shows for his field, along with his incredible knowledge of historical and cultural influences on literature, provided us with top-notch instruction,” she added.

Quick Fact:

Kim TrevathanIn the summer of 2008, Kim Trevathan, assistant professor of writing/communication, drove a loop around the continental U.S. on a quest for what he calls “liminal zones,” paddling upstream on dammed lakes until rivers reasserted their current. Some notable rivers on the list were the Gauley in West Virginia, the Connecticut in Massachusetts, the Tippecanoe in Indiana, and the Dolores in Colorado. He is working on a book about the trip. Trevathan’s other books include Coldhearted River: A Canoe Odyssey Down the Cumberland and Paddling the Tennessee River: A Voyage on Easy Water.