Any topic (writer's choice)

Instructions

For this essay you will choose to examine EITHER English Romantic poetry OR Mary Shelleys Frankenstein (you will write on whichever piece you do not choose in the Midterm exam).  I have provided topics which you are free to use.  You may, however, devise your own topic.  In doing so, I strongly recommend that you obtain approval for your topic (unless you are using one of the questions for the novel as a whole for Frankenstein).  Remember, in a literary analysis you contribute your voice to the ongoing discussion about the text.  That is, critics have put forth opinions about the novel for decades.  Here is your opportunity to chime in with an original argument.  Original is a bit of a relative term here what I expect is that your argument (thesis, claim, contention) go beyond observations raised in class discussion, not to merely repeat those ideas.  By definition, the thesis of a literary analysis must be subjective.  It should also be significant or weighty enough to prompt meaningful, in-depth analysis. Essays should be three to four pages in length and should follow the MEAL Plan structure (see Canvas). Frankenstein topics: 1: In literature, the other or the concept of otherness refers to an individual who is different than those around him/her and in some significant way set apart from the majority.  This may be due to a difference in religious beliefs, race, ethnicity, and the like.  In what ways is the monster an other and what causes it to be an other?  How does its otherness affect the monster?  What sorts of connotations does this term carry?  Construct an argument that addresses one or more of these questions. 2: As we have discussed, Romantics sought to shift focus away from the rational, logical mind toward the feeling, emotive aspects of the human condition.  Many would agree that reason and passion are frequently at odds within the novel.  Choose one or two characters who are impacted by this theme and construct an original argument concerning a specific aspect. 3: Though they take a backseat to the three central male figures, several female characters are arguably impactful throughout the novel.  Choose one or two female characters and construct an argument which asserts her/their importance in the novel. 4: The competing forces of destiny and free will impact the novels three main characters.  Choose two characters and construct an argument that compares or contrasts their sentiments on either of these forces. Romantic poetry topics: 5: Construct an argument that compares or contrasts the use of the sonnet form in two separate sonnets.  See Canvas for additional sonnets. 6: Construct an argument concerning Romantic notions of the divine, the sublime, or the natural world by examining one or two poems by John Keats not discussed in class. 7: Construct an argument on Keats use of the ode form by examining additional Keats poems not discussed in class.  Or, contrast Keats use of the ode with that of another Romantic poet (see instructor for suggestions).  Keep in mind the conventions of the Romantic ode. A note on the drafting process:Know that writing a successful paper takes time.  This is the reason I am giving you four weeks in which to complete it.  I want you to use those four weeks.  If you attempt to dash off a paper at the last minute, this will be apparent.  The drafting process is one of exploration.  You need not know what your ideas about the poem are in order to begin writing.  Just jump right in.  Writing leads to thinking; it is by writing that you figure out what you think about what you have read.  Very few people wake up in the morning with perfectly crafted ideas (let alone literary arguments) in their heads. Secondary sources MAY NOT be used.  DO NOT consult ANY sources at any time during the drafting process.  This includes, but is not limited to, sources such as Spark Notes, Cliffs Notes, Grade Saver and Bookrags. MLA citations are required for the primary source; follow MLA rules for formatting. Papers will be graded according to my rubric which is based on the HSSC guidelines.  The paper must include a signed Honor Code Pledge.  Finally you must upload the electronic version to Canvas.  Do not hand in a hard copy; do not submit the assignment via email. The file must be uploaded to Canvas by the start of class on Friday, February 9; do not hand in a hard copy.

Answer