This paper applies Cognitive Flexibility Theory (CFT) principles to a 19th century Portuguese novel ("Cousin Basilio" by Eca de Queiros) that is available on the World Wide Web. An undergraduate Portuguese literature Web course that studied the novel is also described. Students' reactions to this distance learning course were analyzed by focusing on: users' characteristics (computer literacy, learning preferences, and motivation to participate in this study); users' opinions about the Web document; users' opinions about the structure of the Web course on distance learning; and users' opinions about the inclusion of courses on the Web during their undergraduate studies and for lifelong learning. (Contains 11 references.) (MES)