Assignment:
Part 1: Micro-Analysis & Brief Comparison
Choose a short passage (about 5-15 lines) from one of the following:
- Oedipus the King
- The Cask of Amontillado
- The Raven
- One of Shakespeare's Sonnets (18 or 29)
Write a brief response of 150-250 words in which you do the following:
1. Make a clear claim about the passage
2. Include at least one short quoted phrase (1-5 words)
3. Explain what the passage suggests and how the language creates meaning. Need Assignment Help?
4. Briefly compare or contrast this passage with one other text from the course (1-2 sentences is enough)
Note: Your main focus should be on analyzing one passage. The comparison should be brief-just enough to show how the texts are similar or different.
Important: Do not summarize the passage. Focus on interpretation.
Part 2: Essay Project #1 Preparation
Review the Essay Project #1 assignment.
Then, list three possible topics you could write about for Essay Project #1.
Each topic should:
- Identify the text
- Include a clear idea or angle, not just a broad subject
Example:
Weak: Fate in Oedipus
Stronger: Oedipus the King suggests that the attempt to escape fate can become the very means by which fate is fulfilled.
Part 3: Literature in Context (Short Reflection)
Using the Literary Periods Handout, identify which historical period your chosen Essay Project #1 text belongs to.
Then write a brief response of 75-125 words addressing the following:
- What characteristics of that period might influence the text?
- Does this support a more traditional or theoretical way of reading literature?
Note: This is a brief reflection. Focus on making a clear connection rather than providing a full historical explanation.