English literature seems to some like an unimportant subject. However, the principal abilities and skills you learn by studying this subject are immense. The ability to be analytical is extremely valuable. Students who study English literature often go on to study subjects such as law, philosophy, sociology and psychology. English literature teaches students how to look at small details and provide reasons as to why they are important in the grand scheme of things. On top of such vital skills, English literature teaches you important grammatical writing skills which are very necessary in later life.