Part III: Essay (50 points) Choose one of the following top…
Part III: Essay (50 points) Choose one of the following topics and write a terrific, far-reaching essay, one that is rich in critical thought and specific detail. Minimum word count: 500 (“A” essays usually go well beyond the minimum); +1 for a word count. Make sure your essay has an introduction, at least three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Hint: shorten the intro and conclusion—let the bulk of the paper be the body paragraphs. Bring in numerous specific details from the work, and reference key ideas from class discussion and the PowerPoints in your analysis. Topic A: Discuss the Gregor Samsa throughout the three sections of The Metamorphosis. How does he change/evolve from the beginning of the novella to the end? In your essay, be sure to discuss the following: Gregor in Section I: what is his original reaction to his metamorphosis? How does he slowly realize that life has changed for him? What challenges does he face? (One body paragraph) Gregor in Section II: in what ways he is slowly embracing his new insect form? How/where does he still retain aspects of his humanity? (One body paragraph) Gregor in Section III: What is his relationship like with his family? How have things changed? What is Gregor’s final state? Note: You must discuss the scene where Gregor hears Grete playing the violin in detail in this paragraph. (One body paragraph) **You may expand any one section to two body paragraphs if you choose. Conclusion: What do you think Kafka’s purpose was in creating a character like Gregor Samsa? Topic B: Discuss Oedipus as a character whose tragic destiny is shaped by both fate and free will. In an essay, discuss the following: The events before Oedipus arrived at Thebes to show how he is a pawn of Fate; how does he seem controlled by his destiny, no matter what he does? (One body paragraph) Oedipus as a person whose character flaws—rage, paranoia, etc.– contribute to his demise. How do his actions with Teiresias, Creon, and in particular Laius at the Triple Crossroads reveal those flaws? (One body paragraph) Oedipus’s act of self-punishment. What does he do, and why? How would you characterize his actions here? How does it help us put Oedipus’ character in perspective, for better or for worse? (One body paragraph) **You may expand any one section to two body paragraphs if you choose. –Conclusion: What kind of character was Sophocles ultimately creating in Oedipus?
Read Details