Evaluating different interpretations
The skill of examining multiple interpretations of a text, assessing their validity based on textual evidence, and recognising their strengths and limitations. This directly supports AO5 (exploring texts using different interpretations).
Real World
Critics have read Heathcliff in 'Wuthering Heights' simultaneously as a Byronic romantic hero, a victim of colonial racism, and a capitalist oppressor — each reading is valid because the novel's ambiguity sustains all three.
Exam Focus
Use 'alternatively' or 'a Marxist critic might argue' to signal evaluation of competing interpretations — this directly targets AO5 marks.
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