In a five to seven page essay compare two literature texts, one that we have discussed in class and one you will find on your own. The aspects of literature we are focusing on are short stories, poetry, and drama (theatre). For example you must choose two short stories, two poems or two plays. The purpose of this essay is to critically analyze what makes that aspect of literature texts significant. Once you have chosen the two texts, think about how to develop your ideas into an argument (your “thesis,” the “main idea”). You may use our class discussions, discussion questions on blackboard, and home assignments to help you generate ideas on how to address your essay.
For example a short story is a prose work of fiction, differing from a novel by being shorter and less elaborate” (OED.com). In the short story “Salute to the Flag” by Frank Yerby it deals with systemic racism and the abandonment of hope through the point of view of an unnamed narrator. and systemic racism, however, we cover “Salute to the Flag” and not the short story by W.E.B. DuBois “The Comet.” DuBois’ short story deals with a black man and white woman who believe they are the last two people to survive an apocalyptic event. Both are short stories, however, while we can say “Salute to the Flag” is historical fiction, DuBois’ story “The Comet” can be considered science fiction or black speculative fiction.
In comparing these two texts include the following:
Define the genre
Discuss and summarize the plot from each story
Character analysis – what are the main characters’ motivations
The background/culture of the author
What are the shared themes, what do these narratives have in common? In both “Salute to the Flag” and “The Comet” the story is told from the point of view of the protagonist. There is no all-seeing narrator.
How are they different? For example “Salute to the Flag” is a story that needs to get to the point quickly and there is only one character speaking throughout. The no-named narrator mentions others but the narrative is completely controlled by him. In “The Comet”, other characters do speak, and you get different points of views.
You are required to use viable outside sources to help you develop your analysis in comparing these two texts.
Proofread your essay.
Make sure you follow MLA standards for your essay. This includes the works cited page. I will take points off if this is not corrected since it may interfere with understanding your argument.
You must quote from and refer to the texts you use to support your main idea.
Label your essay, and write the date it is due.
It must be typed and double spaced with the standard size font of 12-point Times New Roman
Your margins should be 1 inch around each page
Plagiarism—presenting the writing of others as your own or using another person’s words or ideas without giving them credit—is a serious academic offense and may result in failure of this essay.
Remember you are not to use wikipedia as a source on your works cited page. For your essay you will be required to have a works cited page. Check with the example on PurdueOwl that is on Blackboard the correct format of your essay and the works cited page.
