Why We Need to Stop Squirming at Compliments (and how it can improve higher level essays)

Ah, us Brits. Masters of queuing, apologising, and, above all, sidestepping compliments like they’re grenades about to go off.  Say something nice to a British person (other socially awkward people are available)  - “You did such a great job teaching my child analysis!” - and watch them crumble into a puddle of self-deprecation.  “Oh, it was nothing really… Billy the Student did all the work… I think the dog might deserve more credit than me.” It’s as though we believe modesty is the only thing keeping civilisation afloat.

Meanwhile, across the pond, in almost any direction, another teacher is saying, “Thank you!” like they’ve just been handed an Oscar, followed by a confident explanation of exactly why their work deserved your praise.

Modesty vs. Confidence: A Cultural Struggle

This isn’t a campaign to overhaul the British psyche - no one is suggesting we start chanting motivational mantras in Marks and Sparks.  But when it comes to certain skills, like constructing arguments in A-Level or IB Literature essays, perhaps we could borrow a page from our more self-assured cousins.  A touch more confidence in our own opinions might not go amiss.

Because here’s the thing: good literature essays demand a belief in your argument. They’re not the place for the “Well, I’m not really sure, but maybe Shakespeare might have been implying…” routine. They require a confident, clear assertion. In fact, the highest marks hinge on your ability to state an argument as though your life depends on it - and then back it up with the textual evidence of a lawyer defending their client.

Embrace the Assertion

Take Othello from Othello. Don’t hedge your bets with “Perhaps Shakespeare intended Othello to represent the tragic consequences of misplaced trust, but, of course, interpretations may vary…”  Go for it: “Shakespeare crafts Othello as a tragic embodiment of vulnerability and honour, exposing how external manipulation and internal insecurities converge to create a catastrophic downfall.”  Now it sounds like you know what you’re talking about - and that confidence will keep the examiner hooked.

Sure, you’ll still need to acknowledge alternative readings and the dreaded critics (this is A-Level), but framing your essay with a clear, assertive stance gives it the structure and punch it needs. This will lead to the  strong conclusion - the academic equivalent of a well-timed mic drop - bold, confident, and impossible to ignore.

Let’s Start a Revolution (of Sorts)

If this sounds like your budding scholar - someone who’s grappling with Shakespeare’s intent or Orwell’s dystopian warnings and could use a bit more confidence - then get in touch. With supportive, academic tutoring, we’ll help them tackle their essays with swagger. Who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll all even learn to queue with confidence too.

Get in touch today for a free 20-minute consultation thelanglitstudio@gmail.com and we can book you in for a new year start.