Classics and English degree personal statement example (1b) Oxford offer

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I first experienced Classics and English during GCSE Drama, through Aeschylus' 'Agamemnon' and Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'. I based my independent piece on Cassandra, using the line 'what's done cannot be undone' as a starting point. I compared the meaning of the line within 'Macbeth' to its relation to 'Agamemnon'. Both Lady Macbeth and Cassandra suffer incredibly. It was interesting to compare Lady Macbeth's internal affliction with Apollo's cursing of Cassandra, which leads to her solitary suffering. This work showed me the relationship between Classics and English, and inspired my desire to study these subjects further.

Studying Classical Civilisation has given me a glimpse of the Ancient World, but I have furthered my reading through Homer's 'The Odyssey' and Virgil's 'The Aeneid'. I was intrigued by Virgil's Roman continuation of the Greek poems and enjoyed discovering about the uncertainty of fate. At first, I believed that Zeus controlled all. However, I soon discovered the ambiguity surrounding the Fates, Zeus and fate itself. I began to analyse who or what was in control, whilst exploring the Roman and Greek attitudes towards embracing death and destiny. I was intrigued by Aeneas' ability to accept fully his fate, and to trust in his Gods with complete pietas. Yet, I felt I was missing the more complete appreciation found, when studying in the original language. I look forward to learning Ancient Greek and have begun a beginner's course in Modern Greek to get a grasp on the alphabet.

Whilst attending a seminar in Old English; at a study day in St. Hugh's College, Oxford, I was enthralled by the language and ambiguity found in its riddles. I relished the opportunity to decipher some myself, such as Riddle 25, which I concluded to describe a Rose, contrasting with the current answer of an Onion. I began reading 'Beowulf' which highlighted the impact Classics has had as I noticed the parallels in attitudes towards death; as well as the ideas of Kleos and Xenia. I also read 'A Choice of Anglo-Saxon Verse' edited by Richard Hamer which gave me an insight into Old English through its parallel verse translations. I noticed some similarities such as engel (angel), hu (how) and beon (be). I found it intriguing how some words have survived over time whilst others such as eft (again) have completely changed.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

Through English Literature, I discovered the works of Hardy. In particular, 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles', where the extent of knowledge you can glean from a novel was intriguing. Specifically areas such as Tess's rape, where although not directly expressed; the event is strikingly clear. After a tour of Dorchester, I read 'The Withered Arm'. To be able to draw the parallels between Hardy's inspiration and my own memories was incredible. I continued with 'Jude the Obscure'. I enjoyed discovering Jude's recurrent failures in his attempt to succeed in life and love, showing the harsh reality of society. I then analysed how Hardy's portrayal of fate contrasts to the ideas seen in Classical literature. Hardy displays characters’ futile attempts to fight against their fate; none manage to affect their destiny. On one hand, this proves the sense in the Classical feelings, as perhaps the characters would have fared better had they embraced their destinies. However, this may also show a criticism of society, as perhaps if it was less restricting their attempts would not have failed.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Working as an Office Administrator has developed my ability to work in a team, respond efficiently to problems, and my organisational and communication skills. Whilst in the Air Training Corps, I obtained high accolades for my constant dedication and hard-work. I look forward to the challenge of studying Classics and English in the future, and the opportunities to study the links between the two as I embark on this degree course.

Universities applied to:

• Oxford
• Exeter
• Durham
• Nottingham
• St. Andrews

Grades achieved:

• Mathematics (AS) A
• Mathematics (A2) A
• English Lit (AS) A
• English Lit (A2) A
• Classical Civilisation (AS) A
• Classical Civilisation (A2) A
• General Studies (AS) A
• General Studies (A2) C
• French (AS) B

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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