Category: A-Level
Othello: Corruption and Prejudice
Shakespeare’s presents the world in which Othello is set as ‘a world riddled with corruption and prejudice’ however, The society of 17th century Venice depicted a hierarchy that favored the white males, such as Cassio, in the play resulting in the suppression of Othello and the female characters in the play such as Desdemona and [...]
Streetcar Named Desire: The Secrets of Blanche and Stanley
This analysis by Jancke Dunn explores the contrasting characters of Blanche DuBois and Stanley Kowalski in Tennessee Williams' A Streetcar Named Desire. It examines themes of secrets, societal norms, and the characters' psychological struggles, illustrating how their opposing natures lead to tragic outcomes, particularly Blanche’s mental decline and catastrophic events.
How does Adichie present Papa’s relationships in Purple Hibiscus
Eugene Achike is portrayed as a tyrannical figure, imposing a suffocating religious absolutism on his family while seeking validation through Catholicism. His relationships reflect oppressive patriarchal dynamics, leading to emotional turmoil. Kambili's evolving perspective indicates the shattering of his control, illustrating the destructive interplay between faith, power, and family.
How are themes of colonialism, freedom and tyranny presented in the opening chapters of ‘Purple Hibiscus’?
Chimamanda Adichie's Purple Hibiscus explores the themes of violence and oppression in Nigeria under the regimes of Generals Babangida and Abacha. Through Kambili's coming-of-age, the novel reveals the clash between familial silence and the political turmoil, reflecting the broader context of Nigeria's post-colonial struggles and repressive history.
Critical Responses to Purple Hibiscus
"The author's straightforward prose captures the tragic riddle of a man who has made an unquestionably positive contribution to the lives of strangers while abandoning the needs of those who are closest to him." The New York Times Book Review "At once the portrait of a country and a family, of terrible choices and [...]
Retrieval Challenge: Literature Revision
The 'Retrieval Challenge Grid' outlines the revision strategy for the A-level Literature Mock Exam, focusing on key works such as 'A Streetcar Named Desire', 'Othello', and the 'Poems of the Decade'. This resource aims to aid students in efficiently preparing for the exam.
A Streetcar Named Desire: Essay Questions
This resource provides a collection of essay questions for GCSE, IGCSE, and A-level students studying A Streetcar Named Desire. The questions cover essential themes, characters, and techniques in Tennessee Williams' play, aimed at enhancing analytical skills and facilitating effective exam preparation through practice and revision.
A Streetcar Named Desire: Blanche
This character study of Blanche DuBois from A Streetcar Named Desire examines her illusions, vulnerabilities, and eventual downfall. It is designed for GCSE, IGCSE, and A-level English Literature students to enhance their exam responses and deepen their understanding of Tennessee Williams' play. Additional resources are also available.
Race and Characterisation in Othello
‘Othello’ is a socio-critique of the flaws in Jacobean society and of the presentation of stereotypes based on race. Shakespeare presents race and the characterization of Othello through his marriage to Desdemona, how others treat him and his initially strong “reputation”. His reputability deteriorates as the play progresses leading to his downfall. Shakespeare exemplifies [...]