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Hello UGC NET Aspirants!
The syllabus for English is vast so there is no shortcut. Be clear about the fact that it requires candidate to be continue in the process for a certain time. First be clear with your M.A. Coursework. This helps student knowing about the literary periods. (Chaucer to contemporary)
Refer a good book for Cultural Studies. Cover major writers from American literature, Indian English writing and Postcolonial literature. Keep yourself updated with important literary awards like the Booker Prize, Pulitzer Prize, Nobel Prize etc. Important for Literary Criticism and Theory
Beginning Theory by Peter Barry
History of Literary Criticism
Theory by MAR Habib
Be thorough with M H Abrams' Glossary of Literary Terms. Solve UGC NET Previous Year Papers and study for paper 1 too. Go for a standard book for history of British Literature. Read the book thoroughly and make notes about the author. I am sharing some books; you may pick any. Routledge History of English literature
Short Oxford History of English Literature. A Critical History of English Literature by David Daiches
History of English Literature by Edward Albert
An outline History of English Literature by WH Hudson
A systemic preparation makes things easier provided you have a good knowledge of concepts. Thanks.