What is meant by 'intertextuality'?

A key part of A-level English Literature is understanding the context of texts. We should note that when we are reading something, what we are reading is very often inseparable from a network of ideas and influences that surrounded the author, and subsequently surround the text. Therefore, when reading a novel, it can help to think about it in relation to other texts, and we may even notice things in our reading that remind us of other works we have read. This is intertextuality, and it can come in many different forms, such as: parody of another work; quotation; allusion; the reflection of ideas from a different text, etc.

Intertextuality could even present itself in similarities in characters, for example, some might argue that Mary Shelley's Victor Frankenstein shares some likenesses with Goethe's Faust. Faust is a character who sacrifices much in the pursuit of knowledge, just like Victor Frankenstein, leading us to even be able to call Shelley's Frankenstein a 'Faustian' novel, making it a prime example of intertextuality.

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the key features of William Blake's "A Little Girl Lost" from his Songs of Experience?


What is the pastoral?


How do I write a good conclusion in an English Literature essay?


Write about the ways Browning tells the story in 'My Last Duchess'.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences