English Essay Competition
The Minds Underground™ English Essay Competition is aimed at students in Year 12 (though younger applicants are welcome). The competition provides students with an opportunity to engage in university-level research, hone their writing & argumentative skills and prepare for university interviews. Entrants must choose 1 question to answer.
Submission Deadline: 3rd March 2025.
2025 English Essay Competition Questions
01
How does literature shape our understanding of cultural identity?
Discuss how authors from different backgrounds use literature to explore national, ethnic, and personal identities.
02.
Is it possible to fully separate the author from their work?
Consider debates around authorial intent, the "death of the author" theory, and biographical criticism
03.
What is the role of dystopian fiction in reflecting and influencing societal change?
Analyse the ways in which dystopian literature critiques contemporary issues and envisions alternative futures.
N.B. The best answers will provide examples from literary texts.
Are you in Year 11/12 & Thinking of Pursuing English at Degree Level/ Oxbridge?
We offer a range of exciting opportunities for students aspiring to a degree in English at a leading university:
Research Projects in exciting current fields with subject experts
English Literature Summer School for university/ Oxbridge applicants
Long-term Oxbridge English mentoring: Boosting knowledge beyond the curriculum, preparing for personal statement and interviews - visit our on-curriculum site, U2 Tuition for more information: https://www.u2tuition.com/university-applications
Interested in an English Competition Mentor? Looking for specialist support researching & writing? Our Oxbridge-educated masterminds are here to help! Sessions from £75/h + VAT. Enquire here
Past Questions
01
Devise a new punctuation mark – and defend it.
Try to treat this as an academic essay - research linguistic theory for background - what is the purpose of punctuation? How does it convey meaning or expression?
02.
Discuss ‘self-reflection’ and ‘self-knowledge’ in relation to the works you have studied.
03.
Should texts that offend still be studied and why?
N.B. You may be interested in undertaking one of MU’s online World Literature masterclasses with our subject experts to give you ideas and help direct your research. Check out the examples below!
