Genuinely one of the kindest professors ever. This was my first college English class as a planned English major, and Prof Luftig showed me why the English department at UVA is so incredible. The workload is totally manageable. I think we wrote 3 5-8 page papers, had 2-3 short homework/discussion posts, one quiz, and a final exam that was a mix of multiple choice questions and one short essay. There were a few occasions where we were asked to attend readings or a performance outside of class time, but he makes up for that by canceling class that week. Really, you just have to do the work and show him that you are trying in class and on your papers and you should be fine.

Professor Luftig is genuinely one of the kindest souls I've ever encountered. I began the course with a preexisting fascination with Irish literature and history, and he has helped foster that so much since he is so passionate about it. I had pretty frequent conversation with Professor Luftig since I was undergoing personal problems this semester, and he was a pillar for me in ways he may not even realize -- and I genuinely believe that compassion is such an important part of the classroom community. If you're thinking about taking this class (maybe a Sally Rooney and Derry Girls fan lol), you should absolutely go for it!!

Great class - although wasn't sure coming in, I was blown away. Talked about many things I had never considered, and analyzed fascinating works in tons of different perspectives (even went to a production of Hamlet that was very enjoyable!) Professor Luftig is kind, very knowledgable, and has a great sense of humor as well. A solid amount of work but was never debilitating and Professor Luftig was always available to offer new thinking over email or office hours (which he had 2 every week on!) 3 main longer essays with a final exam at the end but I would take this class again if I could.

Professor Luftig is such an awesome professor - my favorite at UVA so far. He made English extremely engaging by tying it to other subjects and his grading policy is also very reasonable. He can bounce off of the ideas you provide in class masterfully and consistently provides insightful, thought provoking analysis. His choice of literature is also amazing too - it's varied, relevant, and interesting. Would definitely recommend taking it with him