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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

It is often argued by many that historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

It is often argued by many that historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many people believe that historical artifacts should be returned to their country of origin. I agree with this view to a great extent due to the cultural significance and historical value attached to these objects.

Firstly, the return of historical objects is essential for preserving a country's cultural heritage. For example, the Elgin Marbles, originally from Greece, are currently housed in the British Museum. Returning these artifacts to Greece would not only allow the Greek people to reconnect with their history but also enable future generations to learn about their cultural roots.

Moreover, the repatriation of historical objects can help in healing the wounds of colonialism and exploitation. For instance, during the colonial era, many valuable artifacts were taken from their original countries by colonial powers. Returning these objects would serve as a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and acknowledgment of the past injustices.

However, it is important to consider the circumstances under which the artifacts were originally acquired. In some cases, countries may not have the resources or infrastructure to adequately preserve and display these objects. Therefore, international collaboration and agreements should be made to ensure that the artifacts are well-maintained and accessible to the public, regardless of their location.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that historical objects should be returned to their country of origin, as it is crucial for preserving cultural heritage and addressing historical injustices. International cooperation and mutual understanding can facilitate the repatriation process, ensuring that these artifacts are respected and appreciated for generations to come.

Model Essay #2:

It is often argued by many that historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many argue that historical artifacts should be returned to their country of origin. However, I disagree with this notion to a large extent, as I believe that these objects can serve as valuable educational and cultural resources in their current locations.

Firstly, historical artifacts housed in museums and institutions around the world contribute to global cultural exchange and understanding. For example, the Rosetta Stone, currently displayed in the British Museum, has enabled people from all over the world to learn about ancient Egyptian history and language. Returning such artifacts to their country of origin could limit access to these cultural treasures for people from diverse backgrounds.

Moreover, many countries lack the necessary infrastructure and resources to preserve and display these artifacts adequately. Institutions in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom have the means to ensure the proper conservation and public accessibility of these historical objects. Repatriating them to their original countries may result in their deterioration or limited public viewing.

Additionally, historical artifacts often have complex and intertwined histories, and it can be challenging to determine their rightful country of origin. For instance, artifacts may have changed hands multiple times throughout history, making it difficult to establish a single origin. This complexity underscores the need for careful consideration and international cooperation in addressing the repatriation of historical objects.

In conclusion, I believe that historical artifacts should not necessarily be returned to their country of origin. They play a crucial role in promoting global cultural exchange and understanding, and their current locations often provide the best means for their preservation and public accessibility. International collaboration and dialogue should be prioritized to ensure that these artifacts are respected and appreciated by people worldwide.

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