A Level English Literature

Course summary

There is a strong focus on female authors which in turn leads to much interesting critical discussion and debate about female voice in literature. A key part of the course is that students get to choose a 21st century novel with which to compare Carol Ann Duffy’s ‘World’s Wife’ – and these comparative essays often explore how new voices are being heard in literature. Subject content Over the two year course we will study: Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ Poetry by Christina Rossetti A wide selection of Gothic short stories – as preparation for the unseen element of the Gothic exam Angela Carter’s ‘Bloody Chamber’ Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ Webster’s ‘Duchess of Malfi’ Tennesse Williams’s ‘Streetcar Named Desire’ Carol Ann Duffy’s ‘The World’s Wife’ A choice of 21st century novels with which to compare ‘The World’s Wife’. What can I do after I study English Literature? A degree in English is universally recognised as a ‘heavyweight’ subject which employers will recognise and be likely to give preference for in a competitive job market. A degree in Law, Biomedicine, Architecture, History – most degree courses would welcome an A Level English qualification.