English Literature

Course summary

The English Literature A-level is a stimulating and challenging course which will develop your ability to interpret texts, articulate your views and experience a rich range of literature. You will begin with the study of comparative prose, focusing on texts such as Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ and Kazuo Ishiguro’s ‘Never Let Me Go’. Comparative skills will be honed through your coursework too: a 3000-word essay examining a theme or issue in two texts of your choice. Designed to enable you to explore areas of literature which interest you, this coursework essay will help develop your academic voice and enhance your ability to maintain a robust argument. You will deepen your appreciation of poetry both through the analysis of contemporary seen and unseen texts alongside a named poet or movement. No literature course would be complete without Shakespeare! You will be studying ‘Twelfth Night’ in conjunction with an anthology of critical materials to illuminate and support your readings of the comedy genre. Students undertaking the A-level should be avid and voracious readers with a desire to discuss and build on their understanding of texts. You should be willing to engage in lively and in-depth discussions, and to read widely and independently, using the wealth of resources the School has to offer.