English

A-Level English Literature explores how writers across history use language, form and structure to express ideas about humanity, society and culture.

You will analyse texts from multiple genres, study critical theory, and learn how context shapes both a text's creation and its interpretation. The subject develops rigorous analytical, evaluative and argumentative skills that prepare you for a wide range of academic and professional pathways.

What you will study

Paper 1: Drama – Tragedy

• Othello (Shakespeare)
• A Streetcar Named Desire (Tennessee Williams)
• Literary and dramatic devices, contextual analysis and critical interpretations

Paper 2: The Novel – Science and Society

• The Handmaid's Tale (Margaret Atwood)
• Frankenstein (Mary Shelley)
• Comparative study of meanings, messages, context, form and
• structure

Paper 3: Poetry

• Poems of the Decade (20th-century anthology)
• Romantic poetry and the cultural movement behind it
• Close analysis of tone, imagery and poetic form

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Next steps – where might it lead?

Studying English can lead to degrees such as:

• English Literature
• English Language and Linguistics
• Creative Writing
• Law
• Journalism and Media Studies
• Politics

What experience and skills will you gain?

By studying English you will develop a broad set of transferable and career-ready skills, including:

• Strong analytical reading skills, exploring how writers convey ideas through language, form and structure
• The ability to construct clear, persuasive and well-supported arguments in essays and debates
• Improved confidence in discussing interpretations, evaluating multiple viewpoints and engaging with critical theory
• Critical thinking skills that help you assess social, historical and cultural influences on literature

Future careers – where might this take you?

Graduates can pursue careers such as:

• Law (£28,000-80,000)
• Journalism (£20,000-£50,000)
• Public Relations and Communications £27,000-£70,000)
• Publishing (£25,000-£47,000)