Problem
The Things They Carried - Final Exam Essay Prompt
Prompt: Guilt is a dominant motif we see throughout the novel. Lieutenant Jimmy Cross feels guilty for Lavender's death because he was preoccupied with his feelings for Martha. At the same time, it can be argued that Cross's feelings for Martha may have kept him alive.
A. To what extent were the men responsible for each other?
B. Were any of them wrong to daydream and distract themselves from the realities of war?
C. Is it fair to hold these young men responsible for each other's lives?
D. Who is responsible?
In your essay, be sure to include the following:
A. You need to address all four of the questions asked above.
B. Your essay should be 3-4 paragraphs in length.
C. You must have an introductory paragraph including a clearly identifiable thesis statement (highlight your thesis statement).
D. You must specifically name the author and the title (punctuated correctly) in your introductory paragraph.
E. Be as specific as possible in your use of examples, and be sure to properly cite the information using parenthetical (in-text) citations. You do not need to include a Works Cited for this essay.