English Literature AS/A Level

What makes us human? How can poetry capture the process of growing up, or the values that underpin modern culture? How did attitudes to monarchy in Shakespeare's time affect the way he presented the struggle for power? These are the kinds of ideas you will discuss as you take on the work of a variety of great poets, novelists and playwrights and develop your own voice as a literary critic. You will study dystopian and gothic fiction, cutting-edge modern poetry, critical essays on Shakespeare and much more besides. You will also have the chance to see at least one of your texts performed live during your course.

Entry requirements: A grade 4 in GCSE English Literature and/or English Language is recommended although a higher grade is strongly recommended for students who intend to take the subject to the full A level.

Course assessment: External examination and, in the second year, an extended comparative essay on two texts of your choice.

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