Phil/Lit Essay List, Martin Warner

This object records the evolving final-year projects of Warwick’s pioneering Philosophy and Literature degree, launched in 1971–72. Students explored texts of philosophical and literary significance, guided by tutors from both departments. A growing list of chosen texts—collated by Martin Warner and now displayed across three panels—reveals shifting intellectual trends and, at times, hints at students’ future careers. Originally titled Philosophical Texts, the module was renamed Textual Studies after students questioned classifying novels like Women in Love as philosophy. A proofreading slip once nearly rebranded it Textural Studies—suggesting a course in materials engineering rather than meaning-making.