English Literature

Applications Open: 13th November, 2025

Applications Close: 31st January, 2026

Entry Requirements: These are unique to each subject (located on the subject information page).

How to Apply: Please apply via KentChoices

You should only choose one subject per options block with a maximum of three subjects overall.

This specification is designed to encourage candidates to:

Read widely and independently, both of set texts and texts of their choice.

Engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts

and ways of responding to them.

Develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literacy analysis and evaluation

Explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others' interpretations of them.

Undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen their appreciation and understanding of English literature, including its changing traditions.

Students will study these units of work:

Component 1: Drama - 30% A consideration of how playwrights use Drama to offer a social commentary, engaging with critical theory. Students will study both a Shakespeare play (i.e. The Taming of the Shrew) and a Modern Drama (i.e. A Streetcar Named Desire.

Component 2: Prose: Students will compare two prose texts (including at least one pre-1900) through a specific theme, i.e. Science and Society. The assessment will be a comparison essay considering how context has affected the construction and reception of the texts.

Component 3: Poetry: Students will explore poetry from Post-2000 and a specific thematic cluster (i.e The Romantic Period). These are both comparative essays.

NEA: In this unit, students will explore two texts of their choices under a thematic question of their construction.

Component 1: Drama : Exam - 30%

Component 2: Prose - Exam - 20%

Component 3: Poetry - Exam - 30%

Non-Examination Assessment - 20%

Students need to have achieved at least a grade 5 or above in both English Language and English Literature.

A-Level English Literature is more than just reading great books – it's a gateway to a wide range of exciting opportunities. This course develops your ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and argue persuasively – skills that are highly valued by universities and employers alike. Whether you're aiming for a degree in English, Law, History, Politics, Journalism, Creative Writing, or Education, English Literature provides a strong foundation. It opens doors to careers in publishing, media, teaching, marketing, public relations, and even business or civil service. Employers in all fields look for people who can understand complex ideas, build a strong case, and express themselves with confidence – exactly what this course helps you do. Ultimately, A-Level English Literature can take you wherever strong thinking, clear writing, and a love of stories can lead.