English Literature

Course summary

The study of ‘Love Through the Ages’ and ‘Texts in Shared Contexts’. Students are expected to explore themes and the ways in which writers shape meaning in poetry, plays and novels, making comparisons between texts from a range of historical periods. A Level Literature content English Literature A encourages students to explore the relationships that exist between texts and the contexts within which they are written, received and understood. Studying texts within a shared context enables students to investigate and connect them, drawing out patterns of similarity and difference using a variety of reading strategies and perspectives. English Literature A Level allows students to debate and challenge the interpretations of other readers, as they develop their own informed personal responses. Students are expected to express personal and creative responses to literary texts, using associated concepts and terminology. They also analyze ways in which meanings are shaped in literary texts, use literary criticism and make connections.