Read the three questions carefully and then choose only ONE question to answer. You will then write a thesis-centered essay of at least 500 words in response to the question of your choice using direct quotations from “The Allegory of the Cave” by Plato and “What Fear Can Teach Us” by Karen Thompson Walker to support your writing.
1. Do you think there is a connection between fear and ignorance? To what extent does one affect the other?
2. Plato and Walker argue that the majority of people are trapped by ignorance or fear. Do you agree? How can we free ourselves from these traps?
3. In what ways can our perceptions deceive us? How can we become enlightened to the truth?
Remember to:
• Develop a thesis that takes a clear stance or position.
• Organize your thoughts — an outline can help do this.
• Use MLA in-text citation to support your claim with quotes or paraphrases from BOTH the Plato and the Walker readings. (You must use at least one cited idea from each reading). Introduce each source with a signal phrase. Create a Works Cited page.
• Be sure to analyze your quotes in the context of the text. While you can also use your own observations and experiences to develop your claims, the Walker and the Plato readings must be the primary source for development. Discuss how the citations and ideas are relevant to your thesis.
Use only the handouts I provided to write this essay. DO NOT use outside sources to write this essay.
