Topics for first essay (Fall 2008)

1. Examine the role of family in two of the novels we've studied.

2. In each of these novels, there is a tension between traditional lifestyles and those seemingly more suited to the contemporary world in which the characters live. Focusing on one character from each text, look at how this tension shapes the decisions he or she makes.

3. Looking at two of the novels we've read so far, discuss the impact of the environment on the actions of the characters.

A few tips: First, make sure to cite your sources properly using MLA style. MLA style and my grading criteria are outlined in detail in the essay handout I will distribute to you by e-mail. Second, make sure to give yourself enough time, even if it's only a day or a few hours to reread and revise your essay. This posting I made last year while grading essays will give you a few ideas as to some areas you might want to review before handing in your essay. Second, these essay topics are deliberately broad, allowing you the room to tailor them to what you find interesting about each book. Make sure to narrow the topic you choose enough to make it something manageable for a six or seven page essay. You could easily write a book on any of these topics, so make certain your thesis is specific enough that you aren't biting off more than you can chew. Finally, make sure that your discussion is rooted in the texts themselves and that you use quotations of varying lengths to support your argument.

PLEASE NOTE: If you find yourself in a situation where you have too many papers due on the same day or all your midterms the day before the essay is due, I do permit extensions. There are a few ground rules though: you need to give me a written request for an extension no later than one week before the essay is due with a firm deadline as to when you will have your essay in. I will also have to agree on that deadline and will sign your letter to indicate that I have approved the extension. Any late papers that do not have my prior approval will be penalized one grade increment per day late, including weekend days. This, of course, excludes papers that are late due to sickness or family emergency. In such cases, the usual rules about doctor's notes apply.