Why study English Literature?

Because you like to read interesting things and talk about them! In this course we engage with how some of the greatest contemporary and classic writers deal with the biggest themes and issues in society. The texts enable us to discuss what it means to be human, how we define good and evil, the impacts of discrimination, how gender and sexuality can be viewed, how people manipulate power and more. We also look at critical thought to consider how movements like feminism, postmodernism and ecocriticism have shaped our understanding of the world. Ultimately, English Literature is about enjoying, studying and unpicking excellent works and so, if you love reading, you should take this course.

What will I study over the two years?

You will study the following topics:

• Prose: comparing two novels such as The Handmaid’s Tale and Frankenstein which have a linked theme (one must be pre 1900).
• Poetry: the Poems of the Decade Anthology.
• Poetry: a specified poet such as Christina Rossetti.
• Drama: a play such as Dr Faustus.
• Drama: a Shakespeare play such as Hamlet or Othello.
• Coursework: an essay comparing two texts of your choice.

What makes a good Literature student?

Someone who is curious about the world and enjoys reading. You will be successful by reading widely, thinking deeply about the issues in texts, engaging with discussions and writing your responses.

Where could English Literature take me?

Obviously, lots of students go on to read English Literature at university but many have also gone on to study degrees in subjects such as Psychology, Journalism, Law, Drama, History and more. English Literature also demonstrates to universities and employers that you are able to think perceptively, write fluently and discuss matters intelligently.

What are the entrance requirements?

• Grade 5 or above in English Literature
• 5 or more grades 5-9; including equivalents across at least 5 subjects
• Maths Grade 4 and English Language Grade 5 or above
• Average GCSE GRADE of at least 4.0 (average of ALL GCSE full courses taken)

If you have any questions about our English Literature A Level please chat with your English teacher or email Mr Sykes msykes@oriel.w-sussex.sch.uk We would be very happy to answer any questions