The written and oral portions of your comprehensive exams may seem daunting, but try to remember that when you get to this step you are ready.
What to Think About When Thinking About Grad School: So, you want to do a PhD?
Embarking on a PhD in history can be incredibly rewarding, but before you apply, it's best to have a clear-eyed view of academia as a whole (including the various types of universities where you might study and work), the life (and limits) of being a PhD student, and the realities of the academic job market.