ENGLISH
An English degree offers a wide range of study: the history of English literature from Beowulf to Shakespeare, to Dickens, to Atwood. An English degree will offer a varied look at different expressions of language such as poetry, drama, and novels. It can range from the study of critically acclaimed classics, to niche works carving the path of a new literary field. English is a window into the human experience and opens the door to understanding key historical and current social trends; being able to look at era defining works and controversial classics which have shaped the literature landscape across the centuries. An English degree equips you with an analytical and evaluative mind that produces creative and insightful conclusions. English degrees can lead on to jobs in publishing, marketing, media, and journalism as well as many other areas.
SOME INFORMATION:
Books
Lectures and talks
Yale University – Series of Lectures on the Introduction to Literary Theory
- Yale University – Series of Lectures on American Novels Since 1945
- University of Oxford – Shakespeare Webinar Series
- University of Oxford – Sherlock Holmes and Dorian Gray: Truth, Art, and Immorality Taster Lecture
- University of Oxford – A Street Car Named Desire Taster Lecture
- Stephen Fry Lecture: Words, Words, Words – The Lure of Language
Websites
Competitions
Every year, we invite students across the UK to tackle one of our academics’ ‘big’ questions. These are designed to challenge you beyond the school curriculum and get you thinking ‘big’ about your subject and what it might be like to study it at university. Simply record a video of 5 minutes or less presenting your arguments, research, evidence and opinions.
To enter you must: live in the UK, attend a state school, be in Year 11, 12, or 13. Winners will be invited to visit Oxford where they will have the opportunity to discuss their entries with subject tutors, take a tour of the college, and enjoy lunch in the dining hall.
First Prize: £100 – Second Prize: £50 – Subject Awards: £35
How to enter:
Send us a video of no more than 5 minutes in length.
There’s no need for any fancy equipment, you can film on your phone if you like – we will be judging entries based on your engagement with the question.
Your video doesn’t have to include your face – feel free to get creative! You could narrate a PowerPoint, record yourself drawing or even apply your TikTok-making skills…
Submit your video as an unlisted YouTube video or via WeTransfer.