Subject Leader and Contact
Rosy Hill : Head of English
Qualification
A Level English Literature
AQA – Specification B 7717
Entry Requirements
6 in GCSE English Literature and English Language
Why study English Literature?
The study of Literature is, essentially, a study of humanity. Literature reflects human experience and social influences and is a product of its time; understanding the contextual influences on an author and their writing will help you understand how our present society is a culmination of all that has gone before. Not only will the literature you study provoke discussion about seminal issues of the day – gender, race, power – it also explores the commonalities that make us human: love, loss, suffering and triumph.
During your study of English Literature you will study eight set texts while being encouraged to read independently, widely and in depth. We will cover poetry, prose and drama across a range of periods and include a selection of contemporary texts as well as canonised literature. You will also be introduced to literary critical theory and have the opportunity to crystallise your own interpretations of texts through different critical lenses.
Many of the skills developed through studying Literature are related to independent thinking. You will learn to analyse sophisticated ideas and the ways in which they are presented, to synthesise large and complex texts, and to know how to build a convincing and formal argument.