In theory 2

As a part-time mature student, I completed an English literature degree this year at a university priding itself on its position at the cutting-edge of the critical theory scene.

I felt uneasy about the assumptions being made from the beginning of the course and, after compulsory work in the first year, avoided "theory" modules. I discovered the importance of assessing lecturers' attitudes and learnt to bypass, if possible, those for whom any critical pre-1960s view was anathema. The jewels in the crown, for me, were those who put the complexity, appreciation and enjoyment of the text in paramount position.

I was convinced that much critical theory was an academic example of the emperor's new clothes, but it was nevertheless difficult to challenge those whose careers and reputations depended on it.

Name and address supplied