Select one major theme and analyze a text or texts from our syllabus using
While great works of literature typically explore a plethora of complex ideas, most works are bound by a few overarching “themes,” ideas or subjects that are central to understanding the meaning of the text. Reading the novels, epic poems, and plays on our syllabus with these themes in mind helps us relate these texts to our own lives and to the broader human experience.
For this essay, you will select one major theme and analyze a text or texts from our syllabus using that particular theoretical lens. Why is this theme central to understanding this particular text? How is it explored? What character or characters best illustrate it? Etc. If there is a major theme that you’d like to explore that is not listed below and hasn’t been mentioned in class, you may do so pending my approval. Please do not choose a theme that you’ve explored in a previous essay.
To write an effective thematic essay you must:
• Have a clearly articulated and arguable thesis statement
• Provide specific, textual evidence and quotations that support the claims that you make
• Remain focused on the theme and work(s) that you have chosen
• Adhere to MLA formatting and quotation conventions
As you write this essay, consider the following:
• Does your paper have a clear and arguable thesis statement?
• Do you have a generalized introduction that introduces your thesis statement?
• Will it be clear to your audience that you performed an in-depth analysis of the themes and texts you are exploring?
• Do you present enough evidence in support of your thesis?
• Do you make effective use of quotations?
• Is your essay organized effectively? Do your ideas flow?
• Do you summarize your ideas and re-state your thesis in your concluding paragraph?
Possible Themes: Masculinity, Femininity, Fate, Gender Roles, Disability, Family, Legacy, Ambition, Religion, Faith, Sanity/Insanity, Sin, etc.
Please use “Ode to the west wind” by Percy Bysshe Shelly to complete this assignment
Percy Bysshe Shelley – “Ode to the West Wind”
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45134/ode-to-the-west-wind
