English Literature

Course summary

This course includes the study of Shakespeare together with works of poetry, prose, and drama. You will also be expected to read a wide range of texts on given topics. There is a coursework component worth 20% of the A Level. The course encourages you to explore the relationships that exist between texts and the contexts in which they are written and received. We also encourage students to develop their own informed personal responses and to challenge the interpretations of other readers Paper 1: Love through the Ages (examination) This unit involves the study of three texts (one prose, one poetry, and one Shakespeare) from a range of periods, on the theme of love. You will also be required to respond to two previously unseen poems in the examination. Paper 2: Texts in Shared Context (examination) The aim of this unit is to study a range of texts from one particular time period. You will study three texts (one prose, one poetry, and one drama). You will also learn about the context of the period by watching films and conducting research. The examination will also include a previously unseen extract. Assessment (non-exam): Independent Critical Study This module is assessed by means of a coursework essay (2500 words) and bibliography. You will be required to write a comparative critical study of two texts, one of which must have been written pre-1900.