Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Model Essay 1
The debate over whether artifacts should be returned to their country of origin is a pressing one, with compelling arguments on both sides. I firmly believe that repatriation of historical objects is crucial, as it fosters cultural preservation and global justice. This essay will explore the benefits of returning artifacts to their indigenous territories, and address the practical and moral implications of such actions.
Firstly, repatriating historical objects facilitates the preservation of cultural heritage. Countries of origin often have the cultural context and expertise to best maintain and display these artifacts. For instance, the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece would enable them to be exhibited in Athens, alongside other relics of their era, providing a cohesive narrative of Ancient Greek civilization. This enhances the educational value of the artifacts, allowing visitors and locals alike to gain a deeper understanding of their cultural and historical significance. Moreover, these items are often deeply embedded in the national identity and collective memory of a people, making their presence in foreign museums a painful reminder of historical injustices, such as colonial plunder.
Furthermore, repatriation can be seen as a moral imperative that addresses historical wrongs. Many artifacts were acquired under dubious circumstances, reflecting a power imbalance between colonial powers and colonized regions. Restoring these items can act as a gesture of goodwill and atonement, reinforcing diplomatic relationships and fostering international cooperation. Take, for example, the recent return of looted royal treasures to Benin by France, which not only rectified historical grievances but also strengthened bilateral relations. Such actions encourage a more equitable international dialogue about cultural heritage and its significance, promoting mutual respect among nations.
In conclusion, returning historical artifacts is essential for safeguarding cultural heritage and addressing historical injustices. This discussion has highlighted the educational enhancements and diplomatic benefits that such actions offer, underscoring their role in fostering a just and mutually respectful global community.
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Model Essay 2
The assertion that historical objects should invariably be returned to their countries of origin is a stance laden with complexity and potential drawbacks. I strongly contend that such repatriation is not universally beneficial, as it can undermine global access to cultural education and risk the preservation of these artifacts. This essay will argue against automatic repatriation by highlighting the educational and conservation risks involved.
One significant argument against the automatic return of historical artifacts is the educational value they offer in their current locations. Museums like the British Museum or the Louvre serve as global educators, making a diverse array of cultural histories accessible to an international audience. For instance, the Rosetta Stone, housed in the British Museum, provides invaluable insights into Egyptian history that might not have reached a global audience if kept in its native land. These institutions facilitate a cross-cultural dialogue that educates people about the world's diverse heritage in a way that might be more limited if artifacts were confined to their countries of origin. This global perspective is crucial in fostering international understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
Moreover, the preservation of historical objects can sometimes be better ensured in museums that have the resources and expertise to maintain them. Many artifacts require sophisticated conservation techniques that might not be available in their country of origin. For example, the preservation of mummies and ancient textiles has often been more effectively managed in technologically advanced facilities abroad than in the countries from which these items originate. The argument for repatriation overlooks the practical realities of conservation, where the ideal conditions for artifact longevity might transcend national boundaries.
In conclusion, while the return of cultural artifacts to their origins is a well-intentioned notion, it is not without significant pitfalls. This essay has demonstrated that the educational benefits of global accessibility and the practicalities of advanced conservation methods often justify keeping these items in international institutions.
Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score