English Literature

Course summary

English Literature is not only for those who already enjoy and want to further their reading; it is also for those who want to delve into deeper knowledge and thinking. English Literature allows you to explore the frameworks of narrative, structure, language, and form – but you will also explore subjects as diverse as love, loss, ambition, hatred, fear, sex, childhood, politics, greed, and gender – in fact, all of human life! At GCSE you often read texts in isolation, whereas at A Level you will be encouraged to make connections between texts that were written many years apart. You will also be encouraged to make telling connections between our texts and their historical, social, and cultural contexts. As such, a love of history, culture, and politics is a useful trait for this course. You will explore how various writers (and artists) have revolutionised our way of looking at the world; the onus is very much on you to then generate and foster new critical perspectives – perfect preparation for university and your career ahead. The English Department utilises the Hutton Theatre and the Jenyns and Sixth Form Libraries. Students will have the opportunity to attend theatre trips, cultural visits, and academic lectures. The department also supports the production of plays throughout the school and would encourage our A Level students to get involved, extending and deepening their understanding of drama and language.