module 13

Literature Research Essay Assignment InstructionsThe purpose of this paper is to apply at least one literary critical approach to literature we studied this semester. You will select one or two short stories or poems assigned in Modules 2- 11 to be the focus of your literary research and analysis. Select from the following types of critical approaches: Biographical Historical Feminist Gender Psychoanalytic Postcolonial Note: There are many more critical approaches than the ones listed here. Any of the critical approaches defined in our textbook could also work. For this essay you will: 1. Develop a thesis that connects an aspect of your chosen literature to at least one critical approach. 2. Support your thesis by supplying pertinent evidence from the literature AND evidence from at least 3 valid secondary sources. Length: This paper should be at least 900-1,200 words. Some Topic Examples: Biographical and Historical approach to “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?”: Examine Joyce Carol Oates’ inspiration for the story. (She wrote the story after reading about a serial killer.) Postcolonial approach to “A Wall of Fire Rising” by Edwidge Danticat: Poverty and limited opportunities in Haiti prevent Guy from realizing his dreams. (Biographical and Historical approaches could also work with this story.) Feminist approach to Trifles by Susan Glaspell and “Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers” by Adrienne Rich: The main characters in both represent negative consequences of oppressive marriages. Psychoanalytic approach to “The Yellow Wall-Paper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman: Symbols reflect the character’s declining mental health. Gilman’s own experience with depression inspired this story.