[Magenta96]

I'm predicted an A* in English literature GCSE at the moment although seeing as English literature is so unpredictable with grades chances are I could get an A or an A*. It's always been my strongest subject by far ever since I was in primary school. I do love to read novels and enjoy expressing my opinion through essays. I just don't know whether I should go with it because it's the obvious choice seeing as it's my strongest subject or because I genuinely would love studying it.

I don't really have any particular career aspirations, this AS level will go along with maths, a science a level and another one I haven't decided upon yet.

Judging from the above, would you say my reasons are good enough to study it or do you think I need to think about it more before I make a decision?

Thank you,

[Damask-]

You're good at it, you enjoy it, and it's a well respected subject. That seems like a win/win to me.

[Thatstudentdude]

I wouldn't recommend anyone studies Lit...but that's just me being a sour old bat.

Yes, your reasons for wanting to pick the subject are solid, I don't see why you wouldn't in all honesty? You're strong at it, you have a passion for reading/English in general. Don't worry about it being an obvious choice - if you know it's something you'll a) enojy and b) be particularly strong in, then pick it.

Just be warned, it is a lot of work. I'd say it's the toughest out of my subjects (English Language, Sociology and English Lit), simply because of the effort that needs to be put in to it. If, however, you think you can maintain some interest in the various, yet incredibly dull, works from the likes of Shakespeare, Miller, Fitzgerald etc, then definitely go for it!

And good luck with your GCSE's. Hope you get the predicted A*!

[Hanji123]

Yes. Simple as that. It all depends on which college/sixth form you are at of course, I did a bit of Shakespeare in college but mostly it was more modern, lesser-known works. To be honest, I'm bigging it up loads because I had a fantastic time, my lecturers were wonderful and that's why I am doing the degree I am now. I also found my GCSE English teacher inspired me a lot. It sounds like you enjoy it, so do it

[battycatlady]

YES! It was my favourite lesson by far! If you enjoy it and are good at it then it's a win win situation. In all honestly I didn't didn't find the step up from GCSE too large compared to some of my other lessons (chemistry!). The unseen texts get harder, but the essay writing part doesn't really change other than you have to include context/critical views, so if you are naturally good at essays then you'll be fine. It's well respected by unis, so it's a good one to have if you're thinking in those terms. As for the texts you study, there are boring ones but if you truly hate the ones you do in class you are free you choose your own providing it's a sensible choice and not 'Twilight' or something. At AS-level we had to do 'The Colour Purple' in class for the struggle for identity topic and I hated it, so I did 'Never Let Me Go' outside of school instead. Anyway, I've waffled enough. If you like spouting on about books as much as I do then definitely do it because it's great fun! Sure, the exams can be hard, but it's well worth it

[RobertWhite]

If you enjoy it there's no reason you shouldn't, it's a reputable subject.

It seems you have a good combination of subjects there. Having an essay based subject, maths and a science should leave your options quite open in terms of choosing a degree.