English Literature

Why study this subject?

English Literature at A Level offers the opportunity to experience the world though others' eyes, to appreciate the craft of the writer and to broaden your understanding of the human condition. The study of literature at A Level builds on the enjoyment and appreciation of texts established at GCSE, but the texts you study offer more of a range of interpretation.

You will read a variety of literature across genres, from classic texts to contemporary writers; part of the enjoyment of A Level is the diversity of writers and texts that you encounter. Studying English Literature offers the freedom to develop your own informed personal response and to explore the wider cultural, social, historical and philosophical contexts of texts.

‘Learning from the past, in the present, for the future, the study of English Literature opens you up to new ways of thinking, reading, and writing.’ (Professor Katie Shaw)

What skills will you develop?

There is more emphasis on wider reading than at GCSE and you should be prepared to undertake independent reading and research. You will take part in discussions, argue and defend your views and opinions, prepare critical work and examine the works you study in close detail. Your study of literature will require an analytical mind and a willingness to explore different perspectives. A successful literature student develops skills in communication, collaboration, critical thinking, independence and adaptability.

What are the key elements to the course?

You will study (at least) 8 texts over two years across a range of time periods from Chaucer to the modern day, including texts written or first performed in the last couple of years. Your study will include at least three texts published before 1900 and at least one written after 2000 - and will include two texts from each genre of drama, prose and poetry. You will have the opportunity to produce some coursework, which will allow you explore your interests and engage in some independent study.