A-Level English Literature

English Literature is an exciting course which draws on and expands on what you will have studied atGCSE. Anyone who loves diving into a great work of literature will thrive on this course as we explore,debate and analyse a wide range of exciting literary texts. Throughout the course, there is aparticular focus on wider reading and interpretation of key themes in texts.

You will study plays, poetry and prose over a range of time periods, comparing structure, themesand ideas throughout. We will focus particularly on the tragedy genre, considering how a range oftexts use aspects of tragedy. We will also consider literature’s place as a form of political writing,debating the extent to which writers use literature in order to present political or social ideologies.

As well as meeting our general entry requirements for Level 3 study, a grade 5 or above in GCSE English Literature is also required.

English Literature is excellent for teaching (both primary and secondary), journalism, law, and thecivil service. Many students progress into degree level study in either English or in a wide range ofsubjects.