English Literature

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Syllabus Overview

Assessment Criteria

Stylistic Choices (non-literary)

2. Stylistic Choices

Fundamental question to consider when studying literature, or when studying any form of art: Why should we care about characters or events that are fictional and not real?

To summarize, what fiction provides is theme, any idea or concept central to a work of art. Even though the plot—the physical, literal events of a story—is fictional, the theme is very much relevant in the real world.

For instance, the Harry Potter series contains numerous details—spells, potions, magical creatures—that do not portray the world in which we live. However, the fictional plot of Harry Potter offers depictions of love and death which are certainly important, meaningful aspects of our world.

In other words, the theme connects a fictional story to our world. Ask yourself, What can I find in this story that is meaningful in real life? There is NO single right answer to this question. Even the same idea can be expressed in different words or phrases. Any aspect of life that concerns us humans and is implied by the plot can be considered a theme. A literary work does NOT explicitly state its themes; instead, it uses the plot to show its themes.

Since a literary work conveys multiple themes, perhaps the best way to approach literature is to identify two or three overarching themes and examine the ways in which key characters, scenes, and symbols link to these themes.

This type of critical thinking leads us to literary analysis. The first time you read a literary work, you are focused on tracking the plot; in order to analyze the themes and the ways that the themes are portrayed, it is essential to read the literary work for a second or even third time.

Literary Terms

Character

Point of View

4. Literary Terms

Annotating a non-literary passage

1. Begin with fundamental details → writer, title, text type, context, topic

What information is provided about the writer?

To what extent do the details of when and where the passage was published affect its contents?

Expressed in as few words as possible, what is the topic?

2. Identify the purpose of the passage

What is the passage trying to say or achieve regarding its topic?

Literature Paper 1

Example: literary analysis

1. General observation

2. Author’s name and title of the piece in relation to the General observation

3. Thesis statement

Breaking down each step

6. Essay Organization w/ Sample Paragraphs

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Purpose & Effect

Prose, poetry, and drama have in common the following purpose and effect

Entertainment & Shared experience

The word “entertainment” implies a sense of levity and amusement. The ability to escape into these fictional realms offers a refreshing break from daily routines and challenges.

Granted, films tend to be more geared towards entertainment than theatrical plays in general as evidenced by the stark difference in box office returns.

Films also tend to be more accessible to the average person. Its bells and whistles- the likes of special effects, CGI, cinematography techniques, camera angles, sound effects, editing techniques- certainly add to that effect as they can create a visual spectacle.

Purpose & Effect

Where prose diverges from poetry and drama

Complex, multifaceted stories

Prose presents complex and detailed narratives, facilitating the development of intricate plots, extensive world-building, and flexibility in style and structure.

This aspect of prose enables a deep exploration of themes and characters' thoughts and motivations, resulting in rich, multifaceted stories that captivate and engage readers in ways often through poetry or drama.

Exposition & Knowledge advancement

Purpose & Effect

Where poetry diverges from prose and drama

Medium of presentation & Memorability

The rhythmic patterns and musicality of poetry enhance its presentation. Whether through structured forms like sonnets and haikus or free verse, the rhythm and cadence of poetry can captivate listeners, drawing them into the flow of the language and enhancing the overall experience.

The rhythmic structure and memorable language of poetry make it highly conducive to memorization and recitation. This quality enhances its effectiveness as a medium of presentation, allowing for the retention and dissemination of important ideas, stories, and cultural values across generations.

Structural Focus

Purpose & Effect

Where drama diverges from poetry and prose

The following characteristics shape the unique role and experience of drama within the broader landscape of literary expression.

Performance & Dynamic characterization

Unlike prose and poetry, which are primarily written to be read silently, drama is meant to be enacted by actors in front of an audience, whether on stage or screen This performance-centered nature shapes the structure, style, and content of dramatic works, prioritizing elements like staging and character portrayal.

Drama's performance-centered approach offers unique opportunities for dynamic characterization, visual storytelling, interactive engagement, and collaborative creativity.