My revision notes contain all of the information required to achieve top grades in the Prose component of your EDEXCEL A-level English Literature exam. The optional novel choices in these notes are 'Never Let Me Go' and 'Frankenstein.'
My notes include a link to accompanying flashcards, as well...
Contents
Welcome! .............................................................................................................................................. 2
Never Let Me Go ............................................................................................................................. 3
Form:.................................................................................................................................................. 3
Language ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Structure........................................................................................................................................ 6
Context: ........................................................................................................................................... 7
What happens in each chapter + Quotes ........................................................................ 8
Frankenstein ................................................................................................................................. 15
Form:................................................................................................................................................ 15
Language ....................................................................................................................................... 17
Structure...................................................................................................................................... 19
Context .......................................................................................................................................... 20
What happens in each chapter?......................................................................................... 22
Essay Plans and Points ............................................................................................................ 30
What is Expected of Students (mark scheme) ............................................................. 54
, Welcome!
Welcome to my notes! These were used when I was completing the Prose module of my A-
Level in English Literature for the Edexcel exam board. I studied ‘Never Let me Go’ and
‘Frankenstein’ There may be a few spelling errors, but as far as I know everything is as it
should be.
Before we start, here’s the quizlet I made/used alongside these notes:
(https://quizlet.com/fleurcasson/folders/113134120/sets)
I hope you find everything in here useful and get the grades you want!
, Never Let Me Go
Form:
Psychological Fiction: A narrative genre that emphasizes interior characterization and
motivation to explore the spiritual, emotional, and mental lives of the characters. The mode
of narration examines the reasons for the behaviours of the character, which propel the plot
and explain the story. Usually uses flashbacks and stream of consciousness narration. Kathy
does this!
Speculative fiction- something that doesn’t currently exist but could.
Science Fiction- complex way to explore larger themes and comment about society beneath
the surface.
Bildungsroman: Bildungsroman is a genre of fiction that focuses on the psychological
and moral growth of the protagonist, usually from childhood to adulthood. It originated
in German literature and has been widely adopted in various cultures. The conventions
of Bildungsroman fiction typically include:
Coming-of-age narrative: The story revolves around the development and
maturation of the protagonist as they navigate the challenges and experiences of
growing up. The protagonist often undergoes a series of moral, emotional, and
intellectual transformations, ultimately leading to their self-discovery and self-
realization.
Bildung or education: The protagonist's growth is often depicted through their
education and intellectual development, which can occur in various settings such as
schools, homes, or through encounters with mentors, teachers, and other influential
figures. Education is a prominent theme, and the protagonist's learning journey is
central to the plot.
Psychological and emotional exploration: The protagonist's inner world and
emotional experiences are explored in-depth, including their struggles, doubts, and
self-reflection. Their psychological and emotional growth is often portrayed as they
confront challenges, make choices, and grapple with their identity and place in the
world.
Social and cultural context: The protagonist's growth is often influenced by the
social and cultural context in which they live. This can include the societal norms,
expectations, and constraints that shape their choices and experiences, as well as the
cultural, historical, and political backdrop that impacts their development.
Bildungsroman motif: The story may follow a specific motif that involves the
protagonist's separation from their childhood home or family, their journey through
different experiences and locations, and their eventual return or reunion. This motif
symbolizes the protagonist's progression from innocence to experience, and their
search for meaning and identity.
Character development: The development of not only the protagonist but also other
characters in the story is often significant in Bildungsroman fiction. Supporting
, characters may serve as mentors, guides, or foils to the protagonist, and their
interactions can contribute to the protagonist's growth.
Themes of identity and self-discovery: Bildungsroman fiction often explores themes
of identity, self-discovery, and individuality. The protagonist may grapple with
questions of who they are, what they believe in, and how they fit into society. The
search for self-identity is a central aspect of the Bildungsroman genre.
Resolution and growth: Bildungsroman stories often conclude with the protagonist's
resolution and growth. They may achieve a sense of self-acceptance, gain a deeper
understanding of themselves and the world, and transition into adulthood with a
newfound wisdom and perspective.
Dystopian-
Characteristics of a Dystopian Society
• Propaganda is used to control the citizens of society. (the assemblies)
• Information, independent thought, and freedom are restricted.
• A figurehead or concept is worshipped by the citizens of the society. (n/a)
• Citizens are perceived to be under constant surveillance. (at the lake)
• Citizens have a fear of the outside world. (Tommy says this)
• Citizens live in a dehumanized state.
• The natural world is banished and distrusted. (normals aren’t really mentioned)
• Citizens conform to uniform expectations. Individuality and dissent are bad. (they’re
clones)
• The society is an illusion of a perfect utopian world. (no sickness)
The Dystopian Protagonist
• often feels trapped and is struggling to escape. (Kathy isn’t)
• questions the existing social and political systems. (she doesn’t)
• believes or feels that something is terribly wrong with the society in which he
or she lives. (she doesn’t)
• helps the audience recognizes the negative aspects of the dystopian world
through his or her perspective. (she doesn’t)
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