(a) Define the term conflict as it relates to literature and explain its importance in narrative writing. Briefly describe the different types of internal and external conflict. Then choose ONE short story or poem you read for this course. Explain how the author introduces, develops, and resolves a major conflict in this narrative.
(b) Recall what you have learned about different genres, or types, of narratives and how to analyze a narrative. Then choose ONE short story you read for this course. State the author’s purpose for writing the story (to inform or explain, to describe, to persuade, or to entertain) and summarize the main idea. Briefly discuss the techniques the author used (such as figurative language or metaphor). Evaluate the effectiveness of these techniques in achieving the author’s purpose.
(c) Identify a major theme in ONE of the stories or poems you read for this course. State the theme in a complete sentence. Then explain how the author develops this theme throughout the story or poem through plot events, character development, dialogue, and other story elements.
Feel free to use one of the following fill-ins to copy/paste/fill-in for the matching above:
(a) When it relates to literature, the term conflict is defined as [...]. Internal conflict is [...]; external conflict is [...]. Conflict is important in narrative writing because [...]. Take, for example, the short story/poem I read in English 2 titled “[...].” The author introduces, develops, and resolves a major conflict in this piece by using [choose one: internal/external] conflict. To introduce conflict, the author wrote “[...]” (page number). This shows [...]. To develop conflict, the author wrote, “[...]” (page number). This shows [...]. To resolve the conflict, the author wrote, “[...]” (page number). This shows [...]. In conclusion, conflict is a vital element of literature.
(b) The selection I read in English 2 titled “[...]” is a great example of the narrative genre. To summarize the story, it’s about [...]. The author’s purpose for writing was to [choose one: inform, explain, describe, persuade, or to entertain]. The author used a couple of writing techniques to accomplish this, including [choose two: figurative language, metaphor, etc.]. For example, writing the words “[...]” illustrated the first; in addition, writing the words “[...]” showcased the second (page number range). Overall, these techniques [choose one: were/weren’t] effective in achieving the author’s purpose because [...].
(c) In English 2, we read a selection titled “[...].” When analyzing its main theme, it is clear the universal message is: [...]. The author develops this theme through plot events, character development, dialogue, and other story elements. For example, plot events showed this theme when [...] (page number). Additionally, characters illustrated this theme through their [choose one: words, thoughts, or actions], such as when [...] (page number). Lastly, dialogue addressed this theme when [...] said, “[...]” (page number). Overall, the author crafted work which taught a lesson about [...].
Please use the poem/book The Pig by Barbara Kimenye
(a) When it relates to literature, the term conflict is defined as a struggle between two opposing forces, which drives the plot forward and creates tension and suspense. Internal conflict is a psychological struggle within a character's mind, such as a moral dilemma or an emotional turmoil. External conflict is a struggle between a character and an outside force, such as another character, nature, society, or fate. Conflict is important in narrative writing because it adds depth and complexity to the story, creates obstacles for the characters to overcome, and allows for character development and growth.
One short story I read for this course is "The Pig" by Barbara Kimenye. In this story, the author introduces a major conflict between the protagonist, Amelia, and her nemesis, Kulecho. This conflict is external, as it involves a clash between two characters. Amelia and Kulecho are both determined to win the title of "Best Pig Rearer" in their village, which leads to a fierce competition between them.
To introduce the conflict, the author establishes the competitive nature of both characters from the beginning. Amelia is described as a hardworking and determined woman, while Kulecho is portrayed as a jealous and envious neighbor. This sets the stage for the conflict to unfold.
The author then develops the conflict by depicting a series of incidents where both characters try to outdo each other in rearing their pigs. They employ different strategies and techniques to ensure the success and growth of their pigs. There is a constant sense of tension and rivalry between them as they monitor each other's progress and make attempts to sabotage one another.
Finally, the conflict is resolved when Amelia's pig emerges as the clear winner, gaining more weight and becoming healthier than Kulecho's pig. The author resolves the conflict by highlighting the consequences of jealousy and about the importance of hard work, dedication, and fair competition.
(b) The short story I read for this course is "The Pig" by Barbara Kimenye. The author's purpose for writing this story is to entertain the readers with a humorous and lighthearted tale. The main idea of the story is that jealousy and dishonesty can lead to negative outcomes, while hard work and fairness are rewarded.
Kimenye effectively achieves her purpose through various techniques in the story. She uses figurative language, such as similes, to add vividness and humor to the narrative. For instance, she compares Kulecho's pig to a "huge, fat, breathing mountain." This description creates a humorous image in the reader's mind and emphasizes the exaggerated size of the pig.
Additionally, the author employs dialogue to further develop the story and engage the reader. The conversations between Amelia and Kulecho reveal their scheming and competitive nature, as well as their witty and sarcastic exchanges. This adds depth to the characters and makes the story more engaging.
Overall, Kimenye's use of figurative language and dialogue effectively achieves her purpose of entertaining the readers and conveying the message of the story.
(c) In the poem "The Pig" by Barbara Kimenye, the major theme is the destructive nature of envy and jealousy. The poem teaches a lesson about how these negative emotions can lead to harm and conflict.
The author develops this theme through various story elements in the poem. Firstly, the plot events depict the escalating rivalry and envy between Amelia and Kulecho. The poem highlights their continuous efforts to outdo each other and win the title of "Best Pig Rearer." This constant competition and comparison intensify their envy and ultimately lead to negative consequences.
Secondly, the character development showcases the theme. Amelia is portrayed as hardworking and dedicated to her pig, while Kulecho is characterized by her jealousy and attempts to undermine Amelia's success. This stark contrast in their personalities emphasizes the destructive nature of envy and its impact on both individuals.
Moreover, dialogue in the poem displays the theme through the characters' words. Amelia and Kulecho exchange bitter and resentful remarks, reflecting the toxic effects of envy. Their interactions reveal the negative emotions and hostility that arise from jealousy.
Overall, Kimenye effectively develops the theme of the destructive nature of envy through plot events, character development, and dialogue in the poem. It serves as a cautionary tale illustrating the consequences of allowing jealousy to consume one's thoughts and actions.