Write a 750-1000 word essay performing a literary analysis to reveal theme for one of the short stories from our Supplemental Reading list of weeks 2 through 4. You may use outside sources to support your points but analysis of theme must be your own work. Format your essay under MLA guidelines and credit sources (if used) both in the text of your essay and on a bibliography page. Be aware that only student original writing contributes to word count. Quotes, in-text citations, and bibliography pages DO NOT contribute to word count.
You may choose only from among short stories from our Supplemental Reading lists of weeks 2 through 4 for your essay. Essays written on any other works will not be eligible for credit and there will be no opportunities to replace or revise essays. The Supplemental Reading list is found under the Readings heading in modules 2 through 4.
Just as we have been practicing since week 2, understanding literature comes from reading a text closely and drawing meaning from an analysis of that reading. Such a reading will require you to have a significant grasp of the meaning of individual parts of the story in relation to the entire piece as you sift symbols, elements of plot, and other literary devices that lead us to meaning and understanding.
As stated previously, close reading shows how each part of the text contributes to a unified whole. Each part of your essay must, therefore, relate to a clear, central idea. Make sure that you do not simply paraphrase your story. Use quotes and paraphrasing only in support of original points you are making but use them briefly. Your own words must dominate this essay.
Work through story from beginning to end as you structure your essay. Begin with an introduction identifying the primary theme as your thesis statement. The rest of the paper will be a point by point analysis of how you arrived at that particular understanding—proving your theme. Remember to refer to symbols, images, plot elements, and other devices in support of your analysis.
Note: When conducting research to discover theme, insure that you are using credible sources (such as the books, magazines, journals, and other print sources available through our library’s peer-reviewed databases), as opposed to commercial web sites (Shmoop, Sparknotes, etc.) that are often incorrect and/or vague about important concepts such as theme. Students can access library databases directly through our library web site, engage in live chat with librarians online or over the phone, or visit a campus library in person to directly engage with librarians. Our library professionals are outstanding sources of help and I hope that you’ll take advantage of their expertise with this important assignment.
Note: if you haven’t done so already, carefully review the Assignment Submission Requirements (from course home page left-hand tool bar) before submitting your assignment.