Paper 2 Instructions:
Compare and contrast two similarities and one difference between any two of the stories listed below. Think about how the themes, characters, settings, plot, symbolism, imagery, allusions, foreshadow, foil, irony, conflict, mood, tone, voice, and allegory are represented in both stories. Literature is open to interpretation. The use of first person must NOT be included.
“Where are you going, where have you been” by Joyce Carol Oates
“Lamb to the Slaughter” by Roald Dahl
Paper 2 Includes:
2-3 pages (5 paragraphs)
In-text citations from both stories in body paragraphs
APA Format (Times New Roman, 12 point font, and double spaced)
Paper Outline
Paragraph 1: Introduction> Thesis, Supporting points (4-5 sentences)
Paragraph 2: Supporting Point 1 Similarity> Literary Term, Examples, 2 In-text Citations
(5-6 sentences)
Paragraph 3: Supporting Point 2 Similarity> Literary Term, Examples, 2 In-Text Citations
(5-6 sentences)
Paragraph 4: Supporting Point 3 Difference> Literary Term, Examples, 2 In-Text Citations
(5-6 sentences)
Paragraph 5: Conclusion> Summarize main points and discuss how each of these stories potentially contribute to present society (4-5 sentences)
Sample
Despite differences in culture, there are notable similarities and differences that exist in the short stories “Girl” by Jamaica Kincaid and “Where are you going, where have you been” by Joyce Carol Oates. Both Connie and Girl are warned about being identified as promiscuous. Allegorically, Arnold’s black sunglasses and the random black birds that Girl should not throw stones at represent danger. Their futures foreshadow that based on their personal decisions different outcomes will occur.
Connie and Girl are taught by their mothers the importance of being a valued woman. Girl’s mother teaches about tradition and protection and warns against promiscuity. Connie’s mother attempts to teach the same, but uses a different approach where she questions and compares Connie’s decisions. In “Girl” the mother also insights questions. For example, she says, “You mean to tell me that after all this time you’re really going to be the slut I warned about becoming” (Kincaid, 1983, p.1). This question is meant to prevent the girl from going in that direction. Similarly, Connie’s mother compares Connie to her older sister. She says, “June did this and June did that…” (Oates, 1966, p.1). Connie’s mother prefers for her to be more traditional and prepared for the life ahead of her. Although June is considered less attractive, there is a greater sense of security about her future than Connie’s. The importance of being identified as a valuable woman is considered an important part of upbringing as it warrants stability and favor in society. A woman who chooses to do otherwise is set aside and ultimately labeled for the rest of her life. Nevertheless, this can also lead to dangerous circumstances.
The allegory of Arnold’s black sunglasses and even the mention of the black birds in each of these stories represent a hidden truth. The mystery behind each one of these objects is something that can be feared. Arnold uses a disguise to change his identity when approaching Connie. Oates (1966) says, “…the glasses made it impossible for her to see just what this boy was looking at. She couldn’t decide if she liked him or if he was just a jerk, and so she dawdled in the doorway and wouldn’t come down or go back inside” (p.4). The lack of ability to see what Arnold Friend is seeing makes Connie and the reader realize that Arnold Friend has a deeper story that he is trying to conceal. His revelation of his mystery is the truth that Connie needs in order to escape her unfortunate fate. Similarly, Girl’s mother warns her, “Be careful when you throw stones at black birds because it may not be a black bird at all (Kincaid, 1983, p.5). This is a warning about people and situations she believes she understands. Furthermore, black bird’s indicate a sense of danger even if they appear to be unique. Arnold Friend possesses the characteristics of the black bird.
Differences*
Conclusion*
References
Dahl, R. (1953). Lamb to the Slaughter. The Norton Anthology of Short Fiction 8th Edition: W.
W. Norton & Company. New York, NY.
Hemingway, E. (1930). Hills Like White Elephants. The Norton Anthology of Short Fiction 8th
Edition: W. W. Norton & Company. New York, NY.
Kincaid, J. (1983). Girl.The Norton Anthology of Short Fiction 8th Edition: W. W. Norton
& Company. New York, NY.
Oates, J, C. (1966). Where are you going, where have you been?. The Norton Anthology of
Short Fiction 8th Edition: W. W. Norton & Company. New York, NY.
