English Literature

Course summary

The English Literature A-Level will expose you to a broad range of literary texts throughout history, including historical literary texts from Shakespeare and the Romantics to modern novels and poetry. You will learn about the ways that Literature reflects contemporary values and societies, how it has changed and developed as the world changes, and even how it can be an important catalyst for change itself. You will be encouraged to take part in discussions and debates which will expand your ability to evaluate information and ideas. In lessons, you will critique texts and evaluate how they reflect contextual factors, which will broaden your outlook on our society today. As part of this, you will learn about different literary theories and how they apply not only to literature but to politics, history, and philosophy. Your writing will develop to a more academic style, preparing you well for higher education and independent, extended writing. As part of the course, you will also undertake an independent prose study, based on two novels of your choice. You have the freedom to craft your question, inspired by your response to the texts, which is excellent preparation for higher education where you will need to work independently. Literature has always been a highly regarded, academic subject largely due to its ability to develop critical thinkers. It is a very versatile subject and many people go on to higher education to study and have careers in English Literature and/ or Language, History, Media, Law, Journalism, Politics, Philosophy, Marketing, and many more. You will be supported by teachers who are specialists in their areas and passionate about passing on their love of literature!