This course introduces the emergence and formation of Malay literature focusing on folklore, islamic literature and literature in the age of transition. The two main components discussed are the history of their development and the general introduction to the texts. The influence of the canons such as the Hindu, Java and Arabian epics, as well as the various types of folktales are also analysed. This course also discusses the importance of traditional literature and the concept of "modern" in the history of Malay literature.