English Literature

Course summary

Far be it from me to suggest why you ought to study English Literature at A Level. If you are reading this, the chances are you are already thinking about it. And for that I commend you. What will you study? You are required to study a minimum of eight texts, including at least two examples of each of the genres of prose, poetry and drama across the course as a whole. This includes: • At least three texts published before 1900, including at least one text by Shakespeare • At least one work first published or performed after 2000 • At least one unseen text Enrichment opportunities? Well, immersing yourself in the ways the greatest writers have used language to express the human condition is a continual enrichment in itself. Other specific opportunities include, theatre visits, workshops and external study days. Where might it lead you? That very much depends on you. The analytical, empathetic, discursive and interpretative skills (to mention just a few) that you will develop through studying English Literature are skills valued by academic institutions, all potential employers as well as potential life partners. According to the Russell Group’s guide Informed Choices, English Literature is a ‘facilitating’ A Level. Certain A Levels are known as ‘facilitating’ because choosing them leaves open a wide range of options for university study. So there is that.