English Literature

Why choose English Literature?

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A Level English Literature allows you to explore and respond to a variety of seminal texts from different genres, cultures and times. Building on the work you have done at GCSE, you will explore the writers’ ideas and attitudes, reader responses over time, the historical context and the form, structure and language of the writing in seminar type lessons. You will develop your critical and analytical skills through interpreting texts and enjoy lively debates and discussions around the important philosophical and existential questions of life. English Literature is highly regarded by universities because of the transferable skills that you will develop in its study, such as the ability to research, to analyse critically, to craft an argument and to communicate persuasively and clearly, in both your speaking and writing. Although expressive arts subjects are obvious complementary disciplines, those considering STEM subjects may also wish to benefit from the diverse skill set that A Level English offers.

What will you learn?

English Literature at A Level builds on the three main genres of English that you enjoyed at GCSE: prose, poetry and drama. During the course, you will study either a Shakespeare comedy or tragedy and one other drama. You will also analyse two prose texts, linked by a theme: for example, Crime and Detection or Childhood. A selection of modern, post-2000 poetry is explored, as well as the course preparing you for an unseen poetry element. This is complemented by the study of a specific poet or movement: for example, the Romantics or Keats. Finally, there is a coursework element, worth 20% of the final grade, in which you will have the opportunity to research and examine any two texts of your choice, developing your own areas of interest and your independent learning skills.

English Literature at A Level is very different from GCSE. We have the opportunity to develop ideas in essays and critically engage with texts in fulfilling ways.

Harvey English Literature Student

Student view

English Literature students are spoilt for choice compared to many other subjects. Throughout my A Level, there are books on the course I would never considered reading if they hadn’t been on the syllabus. Whilst the occasional book or style of writing may not resonate with all students, it is really interesting and important to explore and analyse texts out of your comfort zone. An English A Level encourages you to think for yourself. There’s a reason one of the key ‘transferable skills’ English students get labelled with is ‘analytical’. Studying English literature opens you up to different perspectives and gives you the skills to analyse, and not just accept blindly, what you see on the page. Ultimately, it’s a subject that you know you will always enjoy. Whilst essay and exam deadlines are never fun, at least you know that you chose a subject that you enjoy working on. English Literature at A Level is very different from GCSE. We have the opportunity to develop ideas in essays and critically engage with texts in fulfilling ways. There is a big focus on ‘originality of thought’ and contributing something new to exploring a text for the first time.

Harvey English Literature Student

Entry Requirement

Grade 6, 7, 8 or 9 in both English Literature and Language.

GCE English Literature Examination Board

Pearson Edexcel (9ET0)