English Literature

Course summary

English Literature at A Level explores some of the most profound texts in literary history, encouraging you to think deeply about humanity, culture, and society. You will analyse a range of genres, from classic tragedies to crime writing, enhancing your critical thinking and writing skills. Key areas of study include: • Aspects of Tragedy: Study of three texts, including Shakespeare and pre-1900 works. Likely texts: Othello, Death of a Salesman, Tess of the D’Urbervilles. • Elements of Crime Writing: Study of three texts, including one post-2000 prose, one poetry, and one pre-1900 text. Likely texts: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd, Atonement, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. • Coursework: Two essays (1,250–1,500 words each) on a poetry and prose text, linked to a critical anthology.