Eduqas GCSE English Literature key terms

A trusted female attendant who serves a woman of higher rank.

A civilian photographer who records armed conflict and its consequences, often risking personal safety to inform people elsewhere.

A group responsible for guarding streets at night and maintaining public order.

Connected with fate or destiny: this older meaning gives the name Weird Sisters significance beyond simply describing the witches as strange.

A system in which the state takes responsibility for people’s welfare through provision such as healthcare and social security.

A tightly constructed drama in which secrets, clues and revelations build towards a climax, usually followed by a resolution.

Hardy’s name for the region of south-west England associated with his writing, including his native Dorset.

A woman employed to breastfeed another woman's child. Juliet's Nurse also helped bring her up.

A mystery structure that encourages the audience to discover who committed an offence or caused a death.

A character whose apparent foolishness conceals intelligence and insight into other people’s behaviour.

Quick intelligence expressed through inventive, often humorous language.

Humour or meaning created by manipulating words, including their sounds and alternative meanings.

An institution providing accommodation and support for poor people, associated with dependence on parish relief. Eppie imagines it as the alternative to the loving home Silas gave her.