AQA GCSE English Literature key terms

A relationship in which both partners have equal worth and a voice in decisions, rather than one controlling the other.

Language with more than one possible meaning, used to mislead. The apparitions' promises encourage Macbeth to expect safety while allowing outcomes that destroy him.

A secure domestic and financial position, often gained through marriage. This is the meaning of the word in Charlotte Lucas’s desire for an establishment.

Respect for someone based on a considered judgement of their character and qualities. Austen presents esteem as an important foundation for lasting marital affection.

An appeal to an audience’s trust in the speaker’s character, reputation or credibility.

An indirect or softened expression used in place of something disturbing or unpleasant.

A perspective that places Europe and European experiences at the centre, potentially marginalising other peoples’ histories.

A judgement based on weighing evidence, considering its significance and explaining why one interpretation is persuasive.

A Protestant Christian movement emphasising the authority of the Bible, personal faith in Christ and the importance of conversion. Its emphasis on moral duty and spreading Christianity helps explain the religious language of Lowood and St John’s missionary ambitions.

A Christian tradition emphasising the authority of the Bible, personal faith and conversion. Its expression could range from compassionate service to strict moral discipline.

Separation from a person’s homeland, especially when returning is impossible or unsafe.

Hopes about the future; in Great Expectations, the word also refers to Pip’s anticipated receipt of property from a benefactor.

The prospect of receiving wealth or property in the future. Pip’s expectations also become entangled with his hopes of marrying Estella.

A narrative pattern in which something initially thought supernatural is later given an ordinary explanation.

The use of another’s labour or resources for one’s own benefit, especially while giving them little in return.

Background information that helps an audience understand the characters and present action.

A comparison developed across several lines or throughout a text.

A struggle between characters or groups, such as the fighting between the Montagues and Capulets.

A short story, often involving animals, that communicates a moral lesson. Animal Farm uses recognisable animal behaviour to expose human political wrongdoing.

An apparent resolution that makes the audience think the conflict is over before a further event overturns it.

The belief that events or suffering cannot be changed, so attempts to improve matters are pointless.

The idea that events or a person's future are determined by powers beyond human control.

A strand of Gothic writing that explores women’s vulnerability, confinement and struggles against controlling power.

An interpretation that examines gender inequality, women's experiences and the distribution of power between women and men.

A long-standing conflict between families or groups, sustained through hostility and retaliation.

A life story presented as though an invented character has written an account of their own experiences.

The collection of Shakespeare's plays published in 1623, arranged into comedies, histories and tragedies.