Life Writing

My undergraduate degree was in History and English, and I chose the Nineteenth-Century Studies MA because of King’s reputation and because its wide range of courses encouraged a wide-ranging interdisciplinary approach. The core seminars offered a rich overview of the period from history, literature and geography to art and science, while the other courses on offer gave perspectives on everything from patriotic politics to theatrical melodrama. This broad scope inspired a creative cross-pollination of ideas, and the teaching staff was always friendly, accessible and encouraging.

The Strand Campus in the heart of Victorian London was the perfect location for studying the nineteenth century, with the Maughan and Senate House libraries as well as the vast archives of the British Library and other institutions all nearby. The college’s links with these national institutions meant that it could also offer rewarding internship schemes – I worked with English Heritage, gaining insight and experience that I hope to put to good use in the future.

I would recommend this Masters to anyone with an interest in the period who wants to broaden their understanding while working at the historic centre of the nation and gaining practical experience for employment or further study.