English Literature
Download our English Literature prospectus here.
This course builds on the study of English Literature at GCSE. It aims to encourage students to develop an interest and enjoyment of English Literature through reading widely, critically and independently, across time and genre.
FAQs – English Literature
Can you choose any texts to compare for coursework?
You have a wide range of choice, but you must ensure that at least one of your texts is pre-1900. Also, any text that is used by AQA on the A Level spec overall is not allowed to be used in your coursework e.g. The Great Gatsby.
Do you have to remember quotations from the top of your head?
Both sides of the course are open book meaning you are allowed a blank copy of the texts in your exam. The only exam this doesn’t apply to is Othello, where you are given a copy of the extract but must make links, from memory, to other parts of the play.
Do you have to enjoy reading?
Yes! At times you will be expected to read chapters independently before class, and if you read widely, you will be in a strong place when the time comes to choose your texts for your coursework.
Do you cover all three genres?
Yes, you will study two plays (Othello & Journey’s End), two works of prose (Wuthering Heights & Life Class) and poetry (Love & Relationships & War).
What career opportunities will this A level offer?
English literature is widely recognised as an academic subject with universities offering undergraduate degrees, masters and PHDs in the subject area. Some areas which have traditionally attracted English Literature students include: advertising, marketing and PR work, arts administration, teaching, library and information management, the legal profession, editing and publishing, journalism and other areas of the media. Whatever your chosen career path, an A Level in English Literature will enable you to develop your analytical and writing skills as well as the ability to express yourself clearly.
