1 Choose a fictional piece of literature from the list below only:
“In Another Country” by Ernest Hemingway
“The Chrysanthemums” by John Steinbeck
“The Black Ball” by Ralph Ellison
“Why, You Reckon?” by Langston Hughes
“Mending Wall” by Robert Frost
2.Read your chosen work of literature, taking notes on the parts that stand out to you the most.
Are the characters particularly noticeable? Is the setting important to the story? Does the dialogue play a major role in developing the plot?
While taking notes, you should be thinking about a potential thesis. What can you say about this text that will grab a reader’s attention or interest?
3.Create a thesis statement that explains your interpretation of the work you chose.
Remember, a thesis is the main idea of your essay. It’s basically outlining your essay in a sentence. It tells the reader of your essay, what you will be discussing and analyzing within the text.
Are you going to discuss the characters? The setting? The plot development? A specific theme? What about that aspect will you be focusing on specifically?
Think About: WHAT are you talking about? SO WHAT about it?
Example of a thesis statement: Through the characters in “A Mother in Mannville,” the author illustrates how a person’s own interpretations can prevent him or her from seeing someone else’s true needs—even someone for whom he or she cares deeply.
4.Select 3 direct quotations, from your chosen text, to help support your thesis statement.
These should be able to not only be explained in your own words but also be connected back to your thesis.
Think About: What do these 3 quotations have to do with your analysis of this text?
5.Write your essay, in proper essay format.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENT: An introduction paragraph, 1 body paragraph with 3 pieces of evidence, and a conclusion paragraph.
Be sure to indent the paragraphs, use correct grammar and punctuation, and read it over a couple of times to check for any corrections that might need to be made.
Include the correct citations, both in text and your Works Cited. If you are unsure how to do citations, refer to the link at the bottom of this document.
Include your Check My Work link now, if you think you will forget to do it for the final!
Your essay must include an introduction paragraph, 1 body paragraph with 3 pieces of evidence, and a conclusion paragraph. This is the minimum requirement.
Thesis Statement: In "The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck, the author uses the characters, setting, and dialogue to emphasize the theme of societal limitations and the struggle for personal fulfillment.
Introduction:
"The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck is a short story that explores the theme of societal limitations and the struggle for personal fulfillment. Through the use of well-developed characters, an important setting, and significant dialogue, Steinbeck effectively portrays the challenges faced by individuals to break free from societal constraints and find personal fulfillment.
Body Paragraph:
One of the ways Steinbeck emphasizes the theme of societal limitations is through the characterization of Elisa Allen, the protagonist. Elisa is portrayed as a strong and capable woman, whose potential is limited by the patriarchal society she lives in. The story states, "Strong fingers...but they are not cut out for stabbing" (Steinbeck). This quotation highlights how Elisa's capabilities and potential are overlooked and underestimated simply because of her gender. Steinbeck uses Elisa's characterization to show the barriers that women face in society, hindering their pursuit of personal fulfillment.
Additionally, the setting of the story plays a crucial role in conveying the theme. The isolated ranch reflects the loneliness and confinement that Elisa experiences. Steinbeck describes the setting as "high gray-flannel fog...blocked off the rest of the world" (Steinbeck). This symbolism suggests that Elisa's aspirations and desires are restricted by the confined space she finds herself in. The setting acts as a visual representation of the societal limitations that hinder individuals from achieving their dreams.
Furthermore, the dialogue in "The Chrysanthemums" is significant in developing the plot and highlighting the theme. When Elisa meets the tinker, she engages in a conversation that brings a sense of excitement and possibility. The tinker mentions his work and says, "You've got a gift with things, some of them alive and some of them dead" (Steinbeck). This dialogue serves as a catalyst for Elisa, as she becomes enthralled by the idea of exploring her own potential and breaking free from her monotonous life. The dialogue showcases how external influences can awaken a person's inner desires and push them to challenge societal limitations.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck effectively portrays the theme of societal limitations and the struggle for personal fulfillment. Through the characterization of Elisa, the significant setting, and the impactful dialogue, Steinbeck highlights the barriers individuals face in their pursuit of personal fulfillment. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking free from societal constraints and striving for personal growth and fulfillment.