what should I read for history application next year Oxbridge

I have an interest in China/North Korea history and have read a lot on them; I've also read a good bit on Nazi Germany. But my teacher says I should know more about ancient periods/places outside Eurasia. should I and if so reccomendations?

Reply 1

perceptive-stein

This may not be the answer to the question you asked but reading about historiography is what I would recommend. I just got into Oxford to read history and being able to talk about the philosophies of history can show your genuine interest and that you think about history conceptually. I would recommend ‘In defense of History’ as an interesting starting point. Alternatively you could just look up a list of schools of history and choose one to explore.

Reply 2

McKerrow_History

I'd read areas that you are interested in. I'm not quite sure why your teacher would suggest ancient history. I agree with p-s above too. Dipping your toe into what historiography is can only help. If this is completely new to you, I'd suggest this book:
History: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions) : Arnold, John H.: Amazon.co.uk: Books

Dr McKerrow

Reply 3

drriversong

Another vote for historiography! I received offers from both Cambridge and Oxford (different UCAS cycles ofc) and I heavily mentioned historiography in both my personal statement and my interviews.
I'd recommend Carr's "What is History?" and the recent "What is History Now?" (I think this was edited by his granddaughter and features essays from prominent historians dissecting the modern philosophies of history)