English Literature

English Literature Summary

Which of your favourite books have made you question ideas about society? Here at Ashfield School, we read a variety of genres and forms of literature to give you a full appreciation of some very influential and powerful texts which will force you to question the world around you. Imagine a world of political unrest, corrupt institutional power and debates about morality, personal values and ultimate happiness. Such philosophical themes are narrated through the literary works we have chosen for you to study. Both modern and historical, English Literature enables you to make connections between the experiences of your own life and the books you read, whilst also taking moments for you to step back in time to experience a different style and crafting of literature through the likes of Shakespeare and romantic poets to view a different way of life. Studying English Literature allows for escapism and observation of other worlds, raising more questions than answers.  

Entry Requirements

Grade 6 or higher in English Literature or English Language

Course Duration

2 years full-time

Specification

AQA (B)

How you will study

English Literature explores how fictional worlds are created by writers to express ideas about society. You will study drama, prose and poetry from different time periods, focusing on the genres of tragedy and socio-political protest writing. There is an emphasis on active participation in group discussions alongside academic essay writing. These modes of study will develop your critical thinking skills and encourage you to become an autonomous reader by evaluating different interpretations based on context and literary theory.  

Component breakdown

Paper 1: Literary Genres – Aspects of Tragedy 

You will analyse how aspects of tragedy are presented across drama and poetry, specifically: William Shakespeare’s Othello, Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman and a selection of narrative poetry from John Keats. 

Paper 2: Texts and Genres – Socio-Political Protest Writing 

You will analyse how aspects of socio-political protest writing are presented across prose and poetry, specifically: Margaret Atwood’s Handmaid’s Tale, Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner and a collection of poetry from William Blake.  

Non-Examined Assessment: 20% – internal assessment (externally moderated) 

You will write two essays, one on poetry, and one on your choice of prose. You will create a debate by analysing each text through a particular critical lens, such as Marxism, feminism, ecocriticism, post-colonialism or ideas about narrative. 

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