4.6

Michael Bryson

English - California State University - Northridge

4.6
Quality
2.1
Difficulty
95%
Would Retake
127
Reviews
4.6
Quality
2.1
Difficulty
4.5
Helpful
4.7
Clarity

95%

Would Retake

127

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

103

4

15

3

4

2

5

1

0

What Students Say

It was an honor to take two classes with this brilliant, sarcastic, handsome, extremely intelligent, genius of a man

ENG420495 - 4.0 rating

You will be much smarter by taking his class seriously

ENG420 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

16%

Textbook Required

30%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 40 grades
Most common grades:
A (19)
A+ (17)
A- (3)
Grade Distribution
A(36)B(0)C(1)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(3)
Based on 40 reported grades
A: 19
A+: 17
A-: 3
C+: 1
Common Tags
Hilarious (19)
Amazing lectures (14)
Get ready to read (10)
Clear grading criteria (9)
Graded by few things (9)
Inspirational (7)
Caring (5)
Amazing lectures (5)
Rating Trend

Stable

+0.04 avg change
Apr
May
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Dec
May
Oct
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

355

5.0

(1)

419

5.0

(1)

417420

5.0

(1)

ENG419

5.0

(1)

ENGLISH420

5.0

(1)
+35 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ENG452

4.0

ENG5551

4.0

ENGGRAD

3.5

ENGLISH420

3.0

ENGLISHLIT

3.0

Reviews (127)
5.0
1.0
ENG419
Jun 9, 2005

Wasn't interested in Eng drama until I met Bryson. He made the class easy, fun, and entertaining. He's knowable in the field of Restoration Eng Drama's and explains the content well. He's approachable & helpful. He's what you'd expect a dramatis to look like, handsome and theatrical. There's 2 papers and 1 short presentation, he's an easy grader.

5.0
2.0
419
Jul 11, 2005

i think he's handsome too! my friends have been teasing me... his class was interesting and his lectures are often amusing. the structure of the class is very relaxed, so you can focus more on the content of the plays rather than the next due date. two take home midterms and a presentation. fair grading. highly reccomended.

5.0
3.0
ENG355
Grade: A+
Nov 22, 2005

Prof. Bryson makes writing about Literature interesting. We read some great classic literature and his expertise and wit made it fun. He has a great sarcastic humor and is very knowledgable about the subject. Grade is based on 3 papers (one 4-5 page, one 7-8 page and a research paper).

5.0
3.0
ENG355
Nov 27, 2005

Bryson is the best professor I have taken thus far. He raises important questions and analyses about the text without expecting them to be answered in the classroom. He just lectures straight through, no bs. Our grade is based off 3 papers. There is a good amount of reading but it's do-able and absolutely worth it!

4.0
2.0
ENG355
Grade: C+
Dec 5, 2005

Great professor. Understands the life of a student and takes that into consideration. The structure of the class is relaxed and easy to finish assignments and get a good grade.

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH420
Dec 7, 2005

He is such a knowledgeable, clear and engaging professor.He makes even really difficult material like, Milton, really interesting.There are weekly 1 page reading journal entries, a midterm paper 5-7pgs and a final paper. Hes a fair grader and prompt about emailing you back. He's sarcastically funny too, which I liked.

4.0
2.0
ENG355
Dec 8, 2005

Bryson is a good teacher and very knowledgeable of the material. His sarcastic humor definitely makes the class more enjoyable, but I swear he hasn't smiled once this semester! It's so strange! Anyway, don't take this class if you don't like writing essays because the grade is based upon three. But he's pretty easy on grading.

5.0
3.0
ENG420MILTON
Dec 11, 2005

His wife must be the luckiest woman on earth He is the most amazing professor ever Very understanding of students He will let you turn in papers over email such as the weekly journals He gives you plenty of time He is clear He will answer questions in depth Emails are prompt He is respectful does not put students down loves his topic great class

5.0
3.0
420
Dec 13, 2005

not an easy teacher, but freakin awesome!! i'd recommend him to anyone for sure!!

5.0
3.0
ENG420
Dec 15, 2005

Wonderful! I wasn't interested in Milton, but he made it interesting. He knows his stuff and makes it easy to understand. Very helpful, very funny. It was an unexpected delight to have him on my second to last semester. I highly recommend him!

5.0
3.0
ENGLISHLIT
Dec 15, 2005

Amazing Professor. Not only smart with a vast knowledge of English Literature, but funny as well. Makes class very interesting, to the point that you hate to miss it. Must take.

2.0
1.0
MAJENGWRITERS
Jan 14, 2006

Pompous,loves to hear himself talk,hates feedback,does not encourage class participation,BORING! I took him because of reactions here. They were terrible lies. I HATED him. I wanted to hang myself by the end of ea class. Never take a 2 1/2hr class w/him. Its way to long. But if you do, never ever raise your hand. He will just belittle you.

5.0
2.0
ENG355
Jan 26, 2006

This guy is the cat's meow, I tell ya. Anyone who spends time with Milton on purpose is alright by me. He lectures like he's thinking out loud with collegues. He trusts and likes his students and, for that, his influence is immeasureable. I've never met someone who was so obsessive about his own thoughts, but who never took it out on his students.

2.0
2.0
ENG350
Feb 6, 2006

Vulgar and vague.

5.0
3.0
ENG316
Mar 8, 2006

Bryson is awesome, the guy is entertaining and breaks through the commonality found in most professors’ lectures and he does it with style. Drops more F bombs than your friend with turrets syndrome.

5.0
1.0
ENGLISH355
Mar 12, 2006

No Comments

5.0
3.0
MILTON
Apr 6, 2006

Fascintaing and intense professor. Loves his work, hates the system. Speaks on your level, no professor-ease. Explains things in todays terms. Funky hair, think pompador. Easy.

5.0
1.0
355
Apr 7, 2006

take this guy for 355! whats up with ratemyprof censoring my earlier review?!

5.0
3.0
ENG355
Apr 11, 2006

GREAT teacher! We had 3 essays and journals due over the span of the course. He is one of the funniest teachers I have ever had! Easy grader, he is more concerned about the student interpreting the material their own way instead of merely stating his own opinion. You will hate to miss a class! TAKE HIM!!!

5.0
1.0
ENG316
May 20, 2006

Such a great professor. Never took attendance, introduced fresh ideas, only assigned 3 papers and one oral (group) presentation. He does talk a lot but is more than accepting to other’s thoughts. And when he talks, it’s relevant; not just to hear himself lecture. Highly recommended if you are open for new interpretations from a laid back teacher.

4.0
2.0
ENGL316
May 21, 2006

Loved this professor. He's a very entertaining speaker and I'm probably going to take another course with him. Easy class -- show up and write three out of class papers. No final.

5.0
2.0
ENGL316
May 22, 2006

AWESOME PROFESSOR!....seriously I totally recommend this professor to everyone. His Shakespeare class was very interesting. He is so knowledgable about the material. Great lectures, great sense of humor, overall I'm very happy I took his class...yay!

5.0
3.0
ENG417
May 29, 2006

Great professor! Incredibly knowledgeable. Show up for class and take notes as you will learn a lot and it will help you a great deal with the midterm.

5.0
1.0
ENG316
Jun 6, 2006

Great, easy class. He makes Shakespeare somewhat interesting. He's funny and really cool as a person. I highly recommend this class.

5.0
1.0
ENGL316
Jun 7, 2006

Quite possibly the best professor I've had in college. His lectures seem off-the-cuff but are continuously enthralling. He takes the myth out of Shakespeare with his dry, sardonic wit. He treats the student as an equal. A joy to take. I cannot recommend anyone more highly. If you get the chance to take him, do it!

5.0
3.0
ENGL355
Jun 22, 2006

Bryson is very smart and witty. He will keep you interested in the material, and you will understand concepts from the readings through his lectures if you didn't understand them on your own. He isn't intimidating and he will offer help, if ever you need it, on papers.

5.0
1.0
ENG355
Jun 26, 2006

This professor is by far one of my favorites at CSUN. He values the opinions of his students and is always willing to help. There is no midterm or final, just journals and 3 essays- the first 2 you can redo until you get A's on them. I hated missing his class and look forward to taking a class of his in the future! Take him! His lectures are fun!

5.0
2.0
ENGLISH355
Jul 14, 2006

HE IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE ENGLISH PROFESSORS. HE IS INTELLIGENT, FUNNY AND HELPFUL. THIS CLASS IS AN EASY "A" IF U APPLY YOURSELF AND TURN IN ALL YOUR WORK. THERE IS NO MIDTERM OR FINAL, JUST 3 PAPERS AND THE FIRST TWO CAN BE RE-WRITTEN. TAKING GOOD NOTES WILL HELP YOU ON YOUR PAPERS. TAKING BRYSON'S CLASS WAS A GREAT LEARNING EXPERIENCE.

5.0
2.0
SHAKESPEARE
Jul 28, 2006

He is very knowledgeable about his subject. He really makes sense of the good, the bad and the ****ed in Shakespeare's writtings. He is a fun but also effective lecturer and is helpful when talking one on one.

5.0
3.0
ENG355
Nov 16, 2006

Bryson is a great professor. He's perfectly cynical & sarcastic, EXTREMELY knowledgable of his subject matter & is more than willing to assist you in writing your papers, understanding the text, etc. While the rqd book list can seem a bit long, it is definitely worth taking him over another 355 prof. When he says 7-10 pgs, he doesn't mean it.

5.0
3.0
MILTO420
Nov 29, 2006

Would totally recommend him. He is sarcastic and witty. Keeps the lectures going well especially if you take a night class. Class work is reasonable, weekly journals, midterm, and final. Do the reading and take notes, you'll be fine

5.0
3.0
ENGL355
Dec 12, 2006

head and shoulders above most any prof in the dept. e355 is a simple class, three decent papers in which you actually are encouraged to form your own ideas and you have an A.

5.0
1.0
ENG355
Dec 18, 2006

absolutely wonderful! initially comes off as sarcastic and cynical, but is amazingly easy to approach with questions for clarification. funny and entertaining in class with just 3 papers to write (2 can be re-written)=an easy A. coming to class is a BIG help in gaining more insight on the texts. highly recommended!!=)

5.0
3.0
ENGL355
Jan 31, 2007

a heck of a lot of reading but the class is fun and it is easy to get an A.

5.0
4.0
ENG420
Apr 2, 2007

One of the best professors I have ever had. Amazingly knowledgeable. Both his Milton and Shakespeare classes are goldmines of information.

4.0
4.0
ENG420
Apr 29, 2007

Great professor - funny, engaging, doesn't keep you longer than you need to be there (night class). Can be intimidating but only because he's so intelligent. Only thing is - sometimes he doesn't respond to email. Love him overall.

4.0
4.0
ENG452
May 3, 2007

Geat prof. He's like the Dr. House of the English department. Class isn't difficult. He is an amazing lecturer, don't cut class, yu really miss a lot if you do. Grades fairly if not too easy. Just a tad arrogant but not unbearable.

5.0
3.0
ENGL420
May 24, 2007

The man is a freakin genuis of course he might be a little cocky about it. Going 2 that class isn't like going to a class its like seeing a show, and when u realize that u actually understand Milton or 17th century lit after 15 weeks and can explain it to others its nuts. I think all the male students want to be him and all the females want him...

5.0
3.0
ENGL420
Jun 2, 2007

Amazing class! If you can then take his class. Overall he makes his class interesting and he doesn't keep the class longer then necessary. I didn't buy the book, just printed out the assigned poems at work and I was fine. By far my best teacher so far

5.0
5.0
ENGL420
Aug 24, 2007

One of the best professors I've ever had; he took a really boring, dry subject and made it interesting and relevant. His lectures were really, really superb; I hope I have him as a professor again.

5.0
2.0
ENGL316
Sep 12, 2007

Very interesting lecturer for Shakespeare for Slackers. He's like the most interesting professor in the world, well if your world is the English department at CSUN. Otherwise three simple papers a presentation and a good grade is a sure shot! Take him if you must!

4.0
1.0
ENG355
Nov 30, 2007

He is a really good lecturer and he grades WAY TOO easy. Lots of reading, though. If you do the reading and you're a good writer, you'll get an A. He doesn't take attendance, but go to class because he gives you a lot of ideas for the essays.

5.0
1.0
ENG316
Dec 14, 2007

One of the best teachers i have ever had. Class was interesting and easy; Bryson is funny and brilliant. You can't take this class and not love it in the end.

5.0
1.0
ENGL355
Jan 9, 2008

Great teacher I have had him for three classes so far. Do not miss a class he explains what he wants for the papers during the class. It is alot of reading, and the papers are directly from the reading. In your writing make it your own he likes to have people give him a challenge. Other than that he is one of the best English teachers you can take.

5.0
1.0
ENGL420
Jun 3, 2008

A very passionate lecturer who knows his stuff. You will not be bored in this class. He is very interested in seeing that his students LEARN something, and that is what he looks for when grading. One of the best professors I have ever had. Also it doesn't hurt that he is super cool and sexy.

5.0
4.0
ENG416
Jul 25, 2008

great profesor. Go to class, take copious notes. Extremly knowledgable, intriguing, pulls shakespeare into your world making the text understandable as well aspertainable to your life. Dont miss him, He's wonderful! You will learn alot!! loved his class

5.0
4.0
ENG5551
Jul 30, 2008

I also heard his girlfriend looks like a model. I can see why.He is so smart and sexy. He is arrogant but in a good way and really fun to listen to. I learned so much from his lectures and he is very approachable, even though it doesn't seem like it.

5.0
3.0
ENG416
Aug 25, 2008

When I first came into this class, I wasn't really too excited about Shakespeare. This all changed the moment that Bryson made me realize how exciting(and evil) the characters were! He explains everything clearly, and makes it worthwhile. He's also a very reasonable grader, and pretty mellow. Take him if you can(he also teachers Milton)

5.0
2.0
ENGMILT
Jan 20, 2009

Bryson's awesome. He's clear, enthusiastic about the stuff he teaches, and funny. Sure, he comes off as a little pompous, but if you ask him a question, he'll clarify things without being a jerk.

5.0
3.0
MILTN455
Feb 9, 2009

He's a really cool dude.His lectures are deep and informative but also like a one man show. At first because I read this site to see if I should take a certain prof. all I could think was this guy has a girlfriend who looks like a model? Has anyone actually ever seen her in the flesh? But after two weeks, I totally got it.

5.0
1.0
ENGL316
Feb 17, 2009

Amazing prof.! Turns Shakespeare into an amazing ride & makes everything crystal clear. You can tell that he knows & loves what he teaches- it's refresing to have such a knowledgable & entertaining professor.Has a great sense of Humor, always feels like you're watching a 1 man educational show. My fav prof BY FAR.Very Witty!Take him - TRUST ME!!!

2.0
4.0
ENGGRAD
Mar 11, 2009

i don't know what ppl are talking about. he's not helpful and very bitter.

5.0
3.0
ENGGRAD
Mar 11, 2009

Some people just don't get sarcasm, I guess. Bryson has sometimes been the only one in this dept. who was helpful at all. Talk to him in office hours. I'd bet the below person never talked to him at all. He can be a little intimidating in class, for sure. But he wants you to do well

5.0
1.0
ENG416
May 19, 2009

awesome, brilliat, funny, witty, nice, and bitter genius, take this class.

4.0
4.0
ENG420
Oct 10, 2009

Most brilliant teacher I've so far taken at CSUN. Knows his material, is very approachable and kind. If you appreciate sarcasm and satire, you'll probably like his jests and mini-rants. :) I love how the class is mostly reading and listening to his lecture because the material from Milton is awesome and Bryson is profound, fun, and helpful.

5.0
1.0
ENGL417
Dec 18, 2009

This man is amazing, super fun/funny... and he's pretty sexy. class is easy, but not annoyingly so. If you attend class, you'll get a lot out of it. on the other hand, if you never attend class, you might still get an A in the class

4.0
1.0
ENG420
Dec 24, 2009

Very easy and fun class! Such a smart professor!!

5.0
1.0
ENGMILT
May 2, 2010

He is an easy grader. The lectures can be interesting if you are into Milton's writings. You don't always have to go to class, but you should do the readings so you can write a good midterm paper and a good final paper. But, don't worry if you cannot always make it to class--you will do well as long as you turn papers in!

5.0
1.0
ENG417
May 23, 2010

A very fun and enlightening class, highly recommend.

5.0
2.0
ENGSHAK
Aug 19, 2010

very sexy in his demeanor and the way he teaches shakespeare. sarcastically humorous and intelligent.. The kind of older man I'd like to sit and talk with at a coffee shop... =]

5.0
1.0
ENG416
Oct 5, 2010

Bryson=Brilliance WOW! The most intelligent professor at CSUN and I have ever known. I took a Shakespeare class with him and learned more in one session than I have in my entire life. Extremely attractive and funny. Teaches the subject in a way that even the dumbest person in class can understand and probably write a paper! A+ the midterm and final

5.0
2.0
ENGL601
May 8, 2011

Bryson is without a doubt the best professor I have had at the English department in CSUN. His enthusiasm in what he teaches is contagious and makes the class very enjoyable. Bryson is highly knowledgeable in his subject matter, and he really makes you see English in ways you never did before. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes.

5.0
3.0
ENGL417
Sep 3, 2011

Dr. Bryson is one of the best profs i have taken at CSUN. He is very funny, interesting and intelligent. Pretty laidback and willing to help you if you show your efforts. I want to take another class with him in the future. Highly recommended!!!

3.0
4.0
ENG416
Jan 17, 2012

Gave me a whole new understanding on Shakespeare! Passionate, funny and a tad eccentric, but it only added to the experience. He definitely has a following & we seemed to get stuck with the president of his fan club.

4.0
3.0
MILTO420
May 23, 2012

Bryson makes Milton accessible to even the simplest of minds. You don't have to come to class but you will want too. Your grade is based on a midterm and a final that are manageable if you come to class and take notes. Recommended.

5.0
1.0
ENG420
May 25, 2012

I've also had Bryson for 417, and he was amazing in both! He really knows how to take a dense and boring subject like Milton and make you genuinely interested. I'm actually looking forward to Graduate school and taking his class on Milton again. He is a very fair grader, just take notes and apply those to midterm and final.Highly recommended!!!

5.0
2.0
ENG417
Oct 30, 2012

By far the best professor in the dept. He knows his stuff and will make you like it-- somehow! I wasn't a Shakespeare fan and really had no interest in him but he made it so interesting. I actually was upset when I missed class! Very very very knowledgeable.

5.0
2.0
ENG420
Jan 21, 2013

You will want to attend every class because it will make the material easy to understand. His lectures are relatable and he takes the material seriously. His lectures are very engaging like you are watching a performer on stage. You will be much smarter by taking his class seriously.

5.0
1.0
ENGLISH416
Apr 19, 2013

How did he get to be so cute? He's incredibly intelligent, funny, and made Shakespeare my absolute favorite in the whole world. I loved watching him lecture. On top of that, although intimidating, he is an EASY grader! He's amazing, I would take him over and over again.

5.0
2.0
ENG416
May 24, 2013

Scared of Shakespeare? Then take this class! The lectures are amazing and this guy is probably the smartest teacher I have ever had at CSUN. His intelligence comes through in his confidence and you know you are in good hands. Attendance is not mandatory but you really should go because he lectures about things that should go in your essay(s).

5.0
2.0
620MIL
Grade: A
Aug 24, 2013

He's a wonderful, witty, compassionate teacher. I learned so much from him.

3.0
2.0
ENGL316
Sep 25, 2013

If Shakespeare doesn't interest you then you will be VERY bored because he talks nonstop. He has "quizzes" which are take home essays. That is what your entire grade depends on. He doesn't take attendance. He's funny from time to time, but overall boring unless you're into Shakespeare. P.S. He's not hot and he curses often during lectures.

5.0
2.0
ENG316
Sep 27, 2013

Loved the class, the way he lectures made the readings make sense. I was interested but afraid at the same time of Shakespeare, but now I love it!

4.0
2.0
ENG420
Jan 15, 2014

Absolutely enticing. SUCH an interesting lecturer that it's almost like watching an actor perform a scene. He's really intimidating but don't let it fool you--he's an easy grader. Took Milton (torturous and boring) but there were only 2 essays and he made them very clear. Take him! You'll regret missing out on him if you don't. Easy on the eyes too

5.0
2.0
ENG617
Jan 16, 2014

It was my first time taking a class with Dr Bryson, and I didn't know what to expect despite all the praise that goes around. I'm glad I was in this class. The class itself was very interesting, historical, and complex (not complicated). Serious material. And he is the best lecturer in the dept. Highly recommended.

5.0
1.0
417420
Feb 3, 2014

Took both Shakespeare Survey and Milton with him, and I was very pleased. His classes are predominantly lecture-oriented, so if you're big on discussion, you'll likely feel bored. It is important to note that he is a great lecturer and really knows his stuff. Very easy grader, provided that you're a decent writer. He's helpful and super attractive!

4.0
2.0
420
Feb 6, 2014

This class is great. Learned a lot from this professor and currently taking him in 495. Highly recommended. Can be crude but it works for him. Pay attention and you won't regret it.

5.0
1.0
ENG617
Feb 23, 2014

This Shakespeare class was the most interesting class I've taken at CSUN. The material was no joke, but his lectures are clear and his passion for the subject so contagious. He is so damn intelligent. Take his class, and you will learn a lot from a professor who truly cares about teaching, and actually attends class. You won't want to miss a class.

4.0
2.0
ENG420495
Apr 29, 2014

It was an honor to take two classes with this brilliant, sarcastic, handsome, extremely intelligent, genius of a man. You are literally lucky to be in his presence.

5.0
2.0
ENG617
Grade: A+
Aug 4, 2014

Brilliant and humane--a preeminent scholar! Dr. Bryson's every class is beyond interesting and informative. Attendance is not mandatory, but you will want to attend class just to hear him lecture and learn a lot without regrets. You might want to take his classes just to have some of his light shine on you. The English dept's magnum opus.

5.0
1.0
ENGL316
Jun 15, 2015

Not the easiest class to attend every week because it can get boring until some point (what can you expect, it's Shakespeare). However, his lectures makes studying Shakespeare interesting because he makes it humorous and clear. Attendance is not mandatory. 1 easy presentation, 1 take home midterm essay, 1 take home final. Recommended for easy A.

5.0
1.0
ENG417
Jul 21, 2015

If you didn't care for Shakespeare before, you would, after taking this course. Such clear and informative lectures that are not dry at all. Summer course; felt like I actually learned something. Basically most people in this class cared to go to class although he doesn't take roll. The professor is very smart, and his lectures are hilarious. Rec.

5.0
1.0
ENGL316
Grade: A
Dec 8, 2015

Bryson is a great professor. VERY funny! The class is super easy too - Two essays and one easy group assignment. Definitely take this class if you need to fulfill some GE requirement. He's awesome. His class was my favorite class of the semester.

4.0
1.0
ENG416
Grade: A
May 25, 2016

Dark humor, funny guy. I'm not a fan of Shakespeare but he does a great job at modernizing it for better understanding. He really knows his stuff. Don't skip lecture, even though attendance is not mandatory. Two essays (a midterm and final) each nine pages. For an easy A - lectures will help with writing your essays (I can't stress this enough).

5.0
2.0
ENG416420
Grade: A
Jun 1, 2016
Would take again

Amazing. If you see his name under a class that fits your schedule, take it!

5.0
2.0
ENG316
Dec 13, 2016
Would take again

The highlight of my semester. I'm thinking of taking every future class his offers. Such a breadth of knowledge. Seriously consider taking Shakespeare with him because he'll change your perspective. Easy class, but you learn a lot. Cannot recommend enough. Go to the lectures for an A. Hilarious and fun. Loved his class!

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
ENG416
Jan 29, 2017
Would take again

Amazing professor. Can't say enough great things about his lecture materials and the WAY he lectures. You definitely won't regret taking his Shakespeare class. Highly highly recommended. (Coming from a person who was indifferent to Shakespeare, but now is not.)

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENG416
Grade: A-
Feb 6, 2017
Would take again

Write down everything he says during lectures. Use your notes of what he said for midterm and final. You'll do well. You miss class, forget about it. you go to class and not take notes, forget about. The readings? you'll be fine if you do not read and just write down everything he says. I do mean everything.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
3.0
3.0
ENG449
May 17, 2017
Would take again

Wow, Bryson is an interesting guy. Don't get up in the middle of class to use the restroom and don't show up super late. Consider yourself warned. He doesn't take attendance, but his exams are based off the lectures so you'll definitely want to show up and take notes. That's pretty much the secret to success in his class.

Gives good feedback
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
3.0
ENG420
Grade: A-
Jun 7, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Oh man, this class is...I don't even know why this class exist. All he does is speak and ask rhetorical questions that sound like we should answer them even though they're rhetorical. He knows what he's talking about I just didn't care--I watched basketball to pass time. Two 1500 word essay's for the mid-term and one 2000 word essay for the final.

Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
ENG420
Jun 27, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Bryson is a very knowledgeable professor. His class was lecture based, but I was happy with that! Take notes, listen, and you'll be fine. He makes it really interesting. Loved this class! Thank you Dr Bryson!

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG420
Grade: A
Oct 11, 2017
Would take again

Take this guy! Do not come late or use the bathroom! You can literally skip half the classes as long as you take notes while you are there. It is three papers with multiple topic choices, so you will most likely have notes for at least a couple of the choices. It is all lecture, which is my favorite. I had him for 420 and 449 take him if you can.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
ENG416
Grade: A+
Nov 19, 2017
Would take again

OMG I used to think Shakespeare was boring but Bryson has OPENED MY EYES. He makes the lectures very interesting and funny, bringing in some historical context into the stories which makes them a lot easier to comprehend and find enjoyment out of. There's a reason why everyone on campus asks "Did you take Shakespeare with Bryson?"

Respected
Get ready to read
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
ENG622
Grade: A
May 24, 2018
Would take again

Prof. Bryson is a true scholar of literature and poetry. ENG 622 is, hands down, The best class I have taken at CSUN. I learned more about the great classic works throughout history in that class than in my entire college career. Bryson inspires us to think about the large questions, he appreciates alternative voices. I am empowered because of it.

Inspirational
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
ENGL416
May 31, 2018
Would take again

He's absolutely hilarious and cares deeply about Shakespeare with a realist point of view. Love him!

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENGL417
Grade: A+
Dec 5, 2018
Would take again

Prof. Bryson has a brilliant talent for connecting the modern reader to Shakespearian literature. The class is focused more on themes throughout Shakespeare's plays and connecting them to modern life in regards to Power and Corruption/Church and State. Never took attendance once and very straightforward with the two papers and his grading.

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENG420MILTON
Grade: A+
Dec 17, 2018
Would take again

This class has been my favorite this semester. He is an absolutely amazing professor and I'm going to miss his amazing lectures on Milton's work. I honestly couldn't have ask for a better professor to teach me about this one author. If you like lecture classes and less work he's the professor for you. Only show up and do midterm and final papers.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENGL417
Grade: A
Jan 2, 2019
Would take again

Professor Bryson is great. There are only two assignments, a 2000 word midterm and a 2,500 word final. They are both papers that do not require outside sources. I usually dread 2.5 hour classes but he managed to make them fun and have the time go by quickly. Just listen to what he says and you will easily understand Shakespeare!

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
3.0
ENGL416
Nov 15, 2019
Wouldn't take again

He is is an okay but disgruntled guy. Too condescending and thinks nobody knows anything better than him. He is a professor and knows his stuff. Nothing surprising there. But he does not need to sneer at his students.

Graded by few things
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
ENGL255
Grade: A
Nov 16, 2019
Would take again

I didn't think I was going to like this class, but Bryson made going from Gilgamesh to the 20th century really interesting. I'm definitely not an English major, but I learned a lot. If I can, I'll totally take another class with him. Take this class if you get the chance.

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG617
Grade: A
Nov 20, 2019
Would take again

Stunning graduate course on female rage in Shakespeare and Classical drama. Bryson is the only prof here who could have taught this class, and the only one who encourages engaging with older literature and cultures. A fair amount of scholarship in the class, but not theory-heavy to the point that the literature got lost. Best class in my MA program

Respected
Get ready to read
Participation matters
4.0
2.0
ENGL417
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2019
Would take again

Best Shakespeare professor hands down. He keeps it simple and down to earth for students to understand better. He knows his stuff. He does seem like a grumpy man, but simple class. 2 essays based on the plays. As long as you take notes in class and use those notes in the essays, you'll be fine. He doesn't take attendance either.

5.0
2.0
ENG417
Grade: A
Dec 29, 2019
Would take again

Professor Bryson made Shakespeare so enjoyable and understandable. He doesn't take role so no need to show up its an easy A. SAVE YOUR MONEY and DONT BUY THE BOOK! you can look up all the plays online. He doesn't give any quizzes in class or anything just show up and chill honestly, all he does is lecture the entire time. Mid & final are online too

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG255
Grade: A-
May 7, 2020
Would take again

He is super funny and chill, so although the readings might be boring, he will make it interesting. He emails back quickly and provides a lot of feedback. Only has 2 papers but provides extra credit with them.

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG350
Grade: A+
Jul 8, 2020
Would take again

best prof I've ever had. always looked forward to his class

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENG350
Grade: A
May 23, 2021
Would take again

This professor is incredibly passionate about his subject he teaches yet also very laid back. He's very reliable and respectful. I took him years ago and recently needed a recommendation for grad school, I'm sure he didn't remember me, but he immediately helped me out. A very big hearted and caring person in my opinion.

Accessible outside class
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
ENG417
May 25, 2021
Would take again

There were quizzes for this class, but they were super easy. He also gives you two attempts in case you don't do well on the first one. There's also two papers, but he gives you choices on the topics of those said papers. Highly would recommend this professor!

5.0
2.0
ENG255
Jan 3, 2022
Would take again

Straight up amazing

Get ready to read
Caring
Respected
5.0
2.0
ENG417
Grade: A
Jul 17, 2022
Would take again

Easy A! Took this course during the summer. We had 5 quizzes (2 trys each in case we want a better grade) and 1 essay. I highly recommend the modern english translations so you are able to understand Shakespeare better and this in turn will help you write your essay. Don't buy the book he provides the readings online from the modules.

5.0
2.0
ENG255
Grade: A
Dec 23, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Bryson was the easiest class I have taken at CSUN. His class was fully asynchronous. We had a total of 10 quizzes, 1 midterm and 1 final. He is a very easy grader and the quizzes gives you the correct answer after your first attempt. I barely read any of the material and got 200/200 on the midterm and final. Easy A if you need a GE

Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
ENG255
Grade: A+
Dec 23, 2022
Would take again

ENG255 was great! This class consisted of 10 reading quizzes, and 1 midterm and 1 final (short 500 word paragraph)

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Respected
4.0
2.0
ENG417
Grade: A+
Dec 24, 2022
Would take again

Professor Bryson is super knowledgeable and it makes for very interesting lectures. The quizzes are super easy and you can do them twice, attendance is not required, and he is an easy grader when it comes to the final paper. The only problem is that he doesn't encourage class discussion and the lecture is pretty much him talking for 3 hours lol

Hilarious
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
ENG417
Grade: A+
Dec 30, 2022
Would take again

This guy loves his subject more than drowning men love breathing. He can and does lecture about Shakespeare in 3 hour blocks. He does not want you to talk. You don't need to. Occasional quizzes, one 2000 word essay for the final. No discussions or opinions here kids, just show up sometimes and maybe take a few notes. Easiest class I had this term.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
ENG255
Grade: A+
Apr 7, 2023
Would take again

He is simply amazing. Peaceful class and absolutely loved it. Completely different than a traditional English class. 2 essays at a cap of 500 words or 2 pages, along with 6 quizzes with two attempts. Very nice and will work with you if you need it.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
2.0
ENG417
May 21, 2023
Would take again

Prof Bryson was amazing. His lectures were entertaining and I never got bored. It was the one class that I actually liked going to class for. Take him you will learn a lot about Shakespeare. He provides written lecture notes on Canvas which turns out to be very useful and helpful. Also funny and attractive.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
ENG417
Grade: A
Jun 5, 2023
Would take again

A quiz every other week, and 2 papers. Fairly easy, but make sure you know how to write a paper. Honestly his lectures give you everything you need if you're good at writing papers. If you read the material you'll be in great shape.

Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
ENG417
Grade: A+
Jul 14, 2023
Would take again

Took this class during the summer and am glad I did. Ridiculously easy class. 5 quizzes, which you can take twice to improve your score. One final paper, 5-6 pages/1500 words on a prompt from what you read. Very easy grader and makes Shakespeare less daunting.

Hilarious
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
SHAKESPEARE
Grade: A
Jan 15, 2024
Would take again

Yes, he lectures on Shakespeare for 3 hours straight. He's hilarious and somehow made those three hours so interesting though! Provides lecture notes which are long but basically covers in class lectures and doesn't take attendance. Pretty easy quizzes and a couple essays which he leaves a lot of feedback on.

5.0
1.0
ENG417
Grade: A+
Apr 24, 2024
Would take again

I enjoyed his lectures. Basically, pay attention to them and you'll have an easy A+

Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
ENG416
Grade: A+
May 7, 2024
Would take again

Professor Bryson is a golden professor. He is so beyond caring for his students, the most understanding man you'll ever come across. His lectures are really interesting and he's so funny he'll make you cry laughing. He is not a tough grader, basically he's amazing.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
2.0
ENG420MILTON
Grade: A
Sep 13, 2024
Would take again

Professor Bryson is one of the best professors this school has to offer. He knows his material forwards, backwards, upside-down, and inside-out. He lectures all class, but they're so engaging that you don't even realize class is over until he is ending it. He's wonderfully sardonic and worldly. You will learn so much from him. TAKE HIM!

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
ENGL255
Grade: A+
Dec 16, 2024
Would take again

He was overall a great professor. The syllabus was clear of what the class offered. There were weekly tests with assigned readings however you were able to take it twice. There were two papers overall, the midterm and final which were clear on the topic and pretty manageable to talk about. Would recommend his class, and easy A if done the work.

Clear grading criteria
Beware of pop quizzes
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
ENG417
Grade: A+
Dec 16, 2024
Would take again

Easy A+ class! Professor makes Shakespeare less daunting with entertaining lectures. Quizzes are a breeze - you can take them twice. For study prep, unstuck AI was really helpful alongside the readings.

5.0
2.0
ENG255
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2024
Would take again

6 quizzes and 2 essays one midterm and final. 2 attempts for each quiz. A lot of reading but very manageable. Readings are provided on Canvas for free. The professor even has lectures notes and study guides for the quiz. For the 2 essays you get to pick 1 of the listed prompts, which are very straightforward. Word limit of 500 words per essay.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
ENG255
Grade: A+
Dec 23, 2024
Would take again

Really easy class where you have a lot of reading assignment and gives out 10 question quizzes, you get two tries on it, and you get to see the answers. The writing assignment for the class is the midterm and the final, both 500 words to answer the given prompt, usually comparing characters from the readings. Super easy enjoyed this class a lot.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Online Savvy
5.0
1.0
ENG420MILTON
Grade: A
May 14, 2025
Would take again

He is super funny when it comes to teaching. No homework assignments. Just midterm and final essays. Essays seem tricky, but he is a very easy grader. You get to choose whatever prompt he assigns for the essays. He is very helpful. Also you don't meet every single week. 1 week lecture. The following week you do the readings. The process repeats.

5.0
1.0
ENG255
Grade: A+
Oct 22, 2025
Would take again

Honestly a very easy class. There is no homework, there is only 6 quizzes throughout the entire class, you get 2 attempts and you can see the answers after the first attempt. there is one mid term essay and a final. Very manageable work load, overall no complaints.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

16%

Textbook Required

30%

Grade Predictor

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95% confidence
Based on 40 grades
Most common grades:
A (19)
A+ (17)
A- (3)
Grade Distribution
A(36)B(0)C(1)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(3)
Based on 40 reported grades
A: 19
A+: 17
A-: 3
C+: 1
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Caring (5)
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