Instructions:
For this assignment, which is worth 15% of your final grade, you will make a comparative claim about Black Swan and Whiplash and analyze the contents of the films in a well-developed, cohesive essay. This essay is meant to introduce you to the critical thinking and analytical skills you will require for your final research project.
When selecting a topic, think about some of the common themes in the films, such as the relationship between a coach and a student, the pursuit of perfection, the effects of mental and physical abuse, and obsession, although this is by no means an exhaustive list of topics. Then, think about how the specific elements and techniques used in the films lend themselves to the development and exploration of these themes.
Your essay should not merely summarize the plots of the films; you must develop a debatable argument (i.e., you should have a clearly identifiable thesis statement that gives your essay direction and purpose) and you must support your claims with specific examples and evidence from the films. If you quote dialogue from the films, be sure to purposefully integrate them into your writing, rather than lazily place them throughout the essay. Additionally, you must analyze your evidence and connect it to your thesis statement. You should not include information from outside sources; your essays should rely entirely on your own analysis of the texts.
Your essay should be 1,000 words/4 pages (double-spaced), not including the MLA heading and title. This means you must write concisely and purposefully. An appropriate title that captures the essence of your argument should precede the introductory paragraph. You must underline your thesis statement. Use MLA style, Times New Roman font (12-pt), double spacing, and one-inch margins. Any plagiarized or AI-generated assignments will receive zero points. Submit your essay to the appropriate assignment link on our Classes page by 11:59PM on Saturday, October 12th.