You will have 20 minutes to plan, write and revise an essay about the topic below. Your response will be judged on how well you develop a position, organise your ideas, present supporting details, and control the elements of standard written English. You should write 200–300 words.
During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the rise of the novel was driven largely by commercial serialisation in periodicals. Some critics argue that writing for commercial entertainment diminishes the artistic value of literature, while others believe broadening popular access enriches culture. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
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You will have 20 minutes to plan, write and revise an essay about the topic below. Your response will be judged on how well you develop a position, organise your ideas, present supporting details, and control the elements of standard written English. You should write 200–300 words.
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Early prose novels frequently focused on ordinary people and domestic life rather than mythical heroes or monarchs. Some literary scholars argue that realistic fiction is the most effective medium for encouraging social empathy and political reform. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? Support your position with relevant examples.
The historical ascendancy of the novel led to a marked decline in the popularity of traditional narrative poetry and verse drama. Do the advantages of prose fiction becoming the dominant literary form outweigh its disadvantages? Give reasons for your answer based on your knowledge or experience.
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