Instructions
In this four to five-page double-spaced paper (12 point font), students will use a critical approach to discuss an
interpretation of texts we have read in this class. You may discuss one or two stories that have an interesting connection in their plot, setting, characters, language, imagery, or motifs. Create a thesis that is interpretive/argumentative, specific/precise, and unique that uses a critical approach to interpret the literature.
Choose one or two texts:
- Kathrine Mansfield, ” A Garden-Party”
- DH Lawrence, “A Rocking Horse Winner”
- Kate Chopin, “The Story of an Hour”
- Chinua Achebe, “Dead Man’s Path”
Choose a critical approach. Use it to analyze one or two of the stories listed above:
- Feminist Criticism
- Sociological/Marxist Criticism
- Psychological Criticism
- Postcolonial Criticism
Do some brainstorming:
1. When forming a perspective on a text or other topic, do not ignore your own passions or values. What critical theory do you find helpful in aiding your understanding of the story? What does the story or stories have to say about love,
family, politics, greed, or death?
2. Be sure that your perspective (which will determine your argument) is supported by the evidence. If not, consider how your position
needs to be adjusted in light of the evidence.
Other important points to remember:
Use primary textual references as well as one or two secondary library sources in this paper.
Use the literature resources from our Moorpark College Library: Literature and Literary Criticism link and/or History http://sunny.moorparkcollege.edu/~fhabib/searchpath_basic/mod4/eresourcessubjectlist.htm. Do not use Wikis, blogs, or internet sites. Please contact me if you need help finding outside resources.
Use MLA documentation style (in-text citations AND works cited list). https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_formatting_and_style_guide.html?_ga=2.19623804.558179429.15224