I'm supposed to write an essay about how pleasure and disquietude creates meaning for the work, The Awakening. I don't really understand the question and I have NO idea where to start. Please, help.
Make sure you know what the words "pleasure" and "disquietude" mean:
http://www.merriam-webster.com
Then think about what events or descriptions in the story evoke or describe pleasure AND/OR disquietude.
Is there a conflict between pleasure and uneasiness and anxiety?
This site may help you.
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/awakening/
Of course, I can help break down the question and provide guidance on how to approach your essay about The Awakening.
The first step is to understand the main concepts mentioned in the question: pleasure, disquietude, and how they create meaning in the work. In the context of literature, pleasure can refer to the positive emotions or enjoyment that readers experience while engaging with a text. Disquietude, on the other hand, refers to a sense of unease, restlessness, or discomfort that a text evokes in readers.
To start your essay, you might want to consider the following steps:
1. Familiarize yourself with the novel: Read The Awakening by Kate Chopin or review any class notes or resources available to ensure a solid understanding of the plot, characters, and themes. This will help you identify specific instances related to pleasure and disquietude within the text.
2. Identify instances of pleasure and disquietude: As you read the novel, take note of scenes or passages that elicit pleasure or disquietude in the characters or in your own emotional response. Look for moments when the characters experience joy, contentment, or satisfaction, as well as instances that create tension, conflict, or discomfort.
3. Analyze the impact on meaning: Once you have identified such instances, analyze their role in creating meaning for the work. Consider how pleasure and disquietude contribute to character development, the exploration of themes, or the overall message of the novel. Think about the ways in which these emotions shape the narrative and the reader's interpretation of the text.
4. Support your arguments: To strengthen your essay, find evidence from the novel to support your claims. Quote specific passages or describe relevant scenes that demonstrate the presence of pleasure and disquietude. This will provide a solid foundation for your analysis and prove that these emotions play a vital role in creating meaning within The Awakening.
5. Structure your essay: Organize your essay in a logical manner, with an introduction that presents your interpretation of the question and a clear thesis statement. Each subsequent paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or example of pleasure and disquietude, with supporting evidence and analysis. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and reinforcing the overall significance of pleasure and disquietude in creating meaning within the novel.
Remember, the purpose of this essay is to analyze how pleasure and disquietude contribute to the overall meaning of The Awakening. By examining specific instances and linking them to broader themes or character development, you can effectively demonstrate your understanding and provide an insightful analysis of the text.