❓Frequently Asked Questions
1. 🤔Just what exactly is covered in World Literature and Composition?
This class is a journey through classic influential works from around the world—from ancient epics like The Odyssey to masterpieces by Sophocles, Dante, Cervantes, and more. Students will explore major literary movements, themes, and styles while developing their analytical writing skills, creative expression, and literary discussion. We connect timeless ideas to modern life.
2. ⚒️Is this course more focused on reading or writing?
It’s a strong blend of both literature and composition. Students will analyze texts deeply while also practicing a variety of writing styles. For each literary work, students have a choice of what project they want to complete to “show they know!” This class is ideal for students looking to grow in all aspects of English Language Arts.
📚What level of reading and writing is expected?
World Literature and Composition is designed for high school students who are ready to tackle complex texts and ideas. While they don’t need to be experts, students should be comfortable reading independently, discussing big ideas, and writing structured paragraphs and essays. The class includes plenty of support and discussion to help students grow no matter where they start.
📝Will students get help with essay writing and grammar?
Absolutely! Writing instruction is woven into the course, with clear guidance on thesis statements, organization, evidence, proper citations, grammar, and style. Students receive individualized feedback on assignments, helping them build strong habits and confidence as writers.
World Literature and Composition – A Hero’s Journey
$679.00
Grade Level: High School (9th-12th grades)
Day and Time: Tuesday, 9:00 AM CST
Credit: One Year, 1 Credit Course
Explore the world’s greatest stories — from The Odyssey to Iron Man — and earn a full high school English credit through engaging, discussion-based learning.
Our World Literature & Composition class fills quickly each semester. Join the waitlist now for early access when registration reopens — plus get updates on other English and writing courses your teen will love.
Teacher: Beth Purcell : With a degree in English and extensive teaching experience, Beth helps students master writing and speaking skills. She’s also an IEW-certified instructor, known for creating engaging, effective classes that build strong communication foundations.
Teacher:
COURSE OVERVIEW
World Literature & Composition bridges the gap between the ancient and modern worlds, showing students how classic heroes like Odysseus and Dante inspire today’s Marvel stories and cinematic universes.
In this college-prep English course, students earn a full high school credit while reading, analyzing, and writing about foundational works of world literature — all from a Christian worldview that invites critical thinking and cultural awareness.
WHAT YOUR STUDENT WILL LEARN
Key Focus Areas:
-
Develop advanced reading comprehension and literary analysis skills
-
Master essay structure, writing style, and mechanics
-
Connect ancient themes to modern storytelling
-
Create a digital portfolio showcasing writing and reflections
-
Participate in guided discussions that build confidence and critical thought
💡 Honors option available for advanced learners.
CURRICULUM SNAPSHOT
Students Read:
- The Odyssey by Homer
- Antigone by Sophocles
- The Aeneid by Virgil
- Russian Short Stories by Tolstoy & Andersen
- Divine Comedy: Inferno by Dante
- Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
- Global Morality Tales & World Poetry
(Digital links provided; print copies optional.)
💡 How We Use Technology to Bring Literature to Life
At True North Academy, technology isn’t just a tool — it’s a bridge that helps students engage more deeply with the world of ideas. In World Literature & Composition, your student will use digital tools to explore, create, and connect — not just consume.
Here’s how we do it:
-
Write and edit like a professional author using online writing and research tools.
-
Collaborate and discuss with classmates in a safe, live online setting that encourages thoughtful conversation.
-
Explore cultures and history through virtual resources and multimedia experiences that make classic literature feel alive and relevant.
-
Create original projects and presentations that combine writing, visual storytelling, and creativity — skills that translate directly into college and career readiness.
Your student will leave this class confident not only in reading and writing, but also in communicating ideas clearly in a digital world.
📘 Join the Waitlist for Early Access
RELATED PATHWAYS
Continue the Journey:
Round out your student’s year with courses that deepen their understanding of culture, communication, and the human story — perfect companions to World Literature & Composition:
Ready for More?
True North Academy offers integrated course pathways designed to help students grow as thinkers, communicators, and world changers.
Your Teen’s Next Hero’s Journey Starts Here
Help your student build a strong foundation in literature, writing, and critical thinking through the stories that have shaped civilization — and still inspire today’s heroes.
Want to See How This Fits Into a Bigger Plan?
This class can stand alone — or be part of a larger pathway at True North Academy.
From Core 4 foundations to Associate and Dual Degree options, we help families build a clear, customized plan for middle and high school.
Not sure what’s right for your student?
🎯 Schedule a free advising session and let’s map it out together.
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
1 review for World Literature and Composition – A Hero’s Journey
You may also like…
Susan Arico –
Beth Purcell is an excellent tutor and a pleasure to work with (for parents and students alike). She has an excellent knowledge and understanding of the key facets of literature, analysis, writing, and revision, and she is able to make these concepts accessible to students. Her communication with both students and parents is solid and makes her very easy to work with.
I have been impressed with the essays my children have conceptualized, outlined, written and revised in her classes, and under her instruction. She has been a great asset to my children’s literature and essay-writing development as middle and early high school students. They have grown in understanding and skill as a result of her work with them.
She has also worked hard to be flexible and receptive to my desires and instructions as a parent. I’ve really appreciated her flexibility and diligence.
Sincerely,
Susan Arico