Eduqas GCSE English Literature key terms

An approach to knowledge based on observation and evidence. Lanyon examines substances and bodily symptoms, but struggles to accept what he witnesses.

A line of verse whose ending coincides with a grammatical pause or completed unit of sense, usually marked by punctuation.

The continuation of a sentence or phrase beyond the end of a verse line without a closing punctuation mark.

A military officer who carries a regiment’s flag or standard. Iago’s position is also called an ancient in the play.

A legal arrangement restricting the inheritance of property. The entail on Longbourn means that Mr Collins, rather than the Bennet daughters, will inherit it.

Resentment of another person's qualities, possessions, success or position.

A short quotation placed before a work to suggest its themes or guide readers’ expectations.

A concluding section that looks beyond the main events of a narrative, often considering their consequences or the characters’ futures.

A way of telling a story through letters or other written documents.

The use of letters and other written documents to tell a story. Stevenson uses this technique within the novella, especially in its final revelations.

The repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses or lines.

Words written in memory or praise of someone who has died, often placed on a tomb.

Language that allows more than one interpretation, enabling someone to mislead while appearing to tell the truth. The witches' promises conceal the circumstances in which Macbeth can be defeated.

A sense of loyalty, belonging and shared pride within a group, particularly a military unit.

A secure settled position, including a home and the means to maintain it; in Pride and Prejudice, marriage can provide a woman with an establishment.

Respect for someone’s character and qualities, rather than attraction to their appearance or wealth alone.

The belief that a population can be improved by controlling who reproduces. The artilleryman’s proposed selection of strong men and women echoes such ideas.

A mild or indirect expression used in place of something more disturbing or explicit.

A movement within Protestant Christianity emphasising the Bible, personal faith, salvation and the responsibility to spread Christian belief.

Change in the inherited characteristics of a population over successive generations; it does not necessarily mean improvement or progress towards perfection.

An organism’s relative ability to survive and reproduce in a particular environment, rather than simply its strength or intelligence.

A mass departure of people from a place. In these chapters, London’s population flees the Martian advance.

An apparently supernatural event that is later given an ordinary, natural explanation.

Taking unfair advantage of someone’s work, circumstances or vulnerability for personal benefit.

A metaphor sustained and developed through several connected details, such as presenting society as a body with veins, nerves and a brain.

A cover used to put out a flame by depriving it of air. The Ghost’s extinguisher-cap can symbolise the suppression of memory and moral understanding.

Trust in God or religious belief, which may provide meaning, hope or guidance without depending on direct proof.