English Literature A-Level
Social and political history
What Social and political history means in English Literature A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Social and political history
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Social and political history in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Broader social, political, literary, and cultural movements of the time, rather than merely the biographical background of the author.
Topics that use Social and political history
- Drama and poetry pre-1900 (Component 01) - Section 2 set texts: Drama and poetry pre-1900 (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Audience interpretation
- Audience reception
- Comparative essay
- Comparative literary analysis
- Context of production
- Context of reception
- Contextual production
- Critical reception
Using Social and political history in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise English Literature questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All English Literature A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge