Many of the works we have read thus far can be constructively compared; that is, they address similar themes or ideas, either directly or indirectly. Using at least two of the stories you have read, select one of the following and compose a well-developed, coherent, and thoughtful essay of at least two to two and a half pages, 500-600 words minimum, analyzing the way these issues are addressed, and what each author is suggesting in his or her work.
Money: its role, function, or importance; capitalism or consumerism; goods and property; and so on
Class and Status: not merely the same as income or money, class can also refer to status, role in society, educational and professional achievement, et cetera.
Social roles: including those imposed by society and self-imposed roles; this can include analysis of gender roles, of conformity, or of rebellion or difference.
Be sure to focus carefully on the topic: formulate a clear, strong, explicit, assertive, objectively worded thesis (underlined), and avoid plot summary. For any of the above topics, your analysis should establish a clear connection between the texts, beyond merely “they both discuss women” or “both refer to money.” Rather, your thesis must make an explicit assertion about the connection between the two, a substantial, significant claim. Also, be sure to focus on what the texts indicate about the topic: write about what the texts show, not about society itself.
Remember that these are formal essays: they must have an appropriate, original title; contain an introduction, multiple body paragraphs, and conclusion; avoid use of “I” or “you” throughout; and be grammatically correct, free of errors in mechanics, grammar, usage, spelling, and documentation.
Your essays must contain quotations from or other references to the texts, and these references should be used to support your assertions about the text and be properly documented (utilizing MLA-style citations for documentation). However, these are not research projects: no secondary sources are required, nor should any sources be used other than the stories themselves.
Your essay must be on one of the topics below and uploaded to both the appropriate folder in Blackboard and to Turnitin on or before 9:00 PM on Friday, October 16. Please feel free to communicate any concerns or questions to me before the essays are due; I will be available to meet with any student who needs assistance or additional instruction.