This course studies major literary works of the nineteenth century in Britain to investigate how literature contributes to social, interpersonal, and psychological transformation. It focuses on the major revolutionary movements of the nineteenth century (French Revolution, abolition of slavery, women’s emancipation, Industrial revolution) and shows how literary texts not only reflect but also energize and assist in efforts to build a more just world. Throughout, we focus on how poetry and poetic ways of thinking and speaking affect the experience and achievement of freedom.