English Literature

Course summary

The English department offers an A-level course that is challenging, enjoyable and responsive to the needs and talents of you, the students. The course is based entirely and unashamedly upon a study of literature and rewards those with a passion for exploring their literary heritage. We look at historical texts across a range of genres, exploring what they may have to say to us in the 21st Century and what they say about their own times. Modern texts are studied both as new voices and as part of a tradition. You need a genuinely enthusiastic approach to reading challenging texts in prose, poetry and drama, an open mind and fluency on paper to express your ideas to full advantage. You will be assessed by three terminal exams and a single extended coursework essay. Component 1 - Poetry Component 2 - Drama Component 3 - Unseen Texts Component 4 - Prose Study