Literary Text Analysis

Final Research/Analysis Paper

Description: For this Research Analysis Paper I want you to take a poem (or, at most, two poems), a story, or a play from the textbook we’ve read throughout the semester, and apply to it one of the criticisms we have discussed throughout the semester (Marxism, Psychoanalysis, Reader Response, etc.). You may NOT write this paper on a story/poem/play you have already written a paper on.

I am looking for you to integrate at least five outside academic sources into your paper (no Wikipedia, General Encyclopedias, etc.). At least one source should comment directly on the work of literature you are examining (or at the very least, the author). The other sources may deal with a criticism you are utilizing, author biography, cultural/historical information, and so on. Just make sure they are quality sources. You may use NO MORE THAN 8 SECONDARY SOURCES!!

*Note: You may NOT write on the poem “We Real Cool,” since so many samples were provided.

REMEMBER: I do not want you to just add quotes and outside sources all willy-nilly. You will be graded on how well you are able to integrate the quotes into YOUR paper, and to help discuss YOUR ideas. I want you to engage in a dialog with other critic’s ideas, even if you disagree with them, in order to better define your own ideas. And don’t forget to engage with the text itself. Draw direct quotes from the text so you can discuss specific instances, specific images and words, and MORE IMPORTANTLY, the larger implications of all these things. That is what we in the business call “the good stuff.” On the other hand, do not quote large chunks of a story or poem or play if you do not discuss its implications in detail. Do not use Textbooks as one of your four sources.

When analyzing your text, you must utilize one of the critical lenses we’ve discussed throughout the semester. Considering this, you may need to do some additional research on this criticism (Psychoanalysis, Feminism etc.). You are still required to have five academic sources, but they may be alternative readings of your text. A general rule to follow is—if it doesn’t help inform your thesis, you should find another source (or change your thesis). Yes, you need a thesis. Develop your paper around your premise/thesis. Avoid obvious readings or works that lend to obvious readings. This paper is an opportunity to show your ability to make observations and draw connections between the text, the criticism and the real world. Offer a new way to read that primary text.

As with your response papers, I want you to do more than just identify points in the text that show your criticism. Tell how and why your observations are important. Remember: 2000 words of plot summary or author biography will NOT get a good grade. On the other end, don’t try to cover too much—this is only an 8 to 10 page paper. Keep the thesis concise; keep your focus as narrow as you can.

I will also be paying closer attention to MLA formatting, mechanics, and grammar. Failure to comply WILL affect your grade dramatically. Polish this paper and proofread, proofread, proofread.

NOW SHOW ME YOU CAN RESEARCH AND ANALYZE!!

Instructions:

1. Write the paper in a Word Document, including passages quoted from the texts you are analyzing (primary text) as well as secondary sources. The paper requirements include:
   0. One criticism or focus we’ve covered this semester.
   1. 2000 to 2500 words.
   2. Five academic secondary sources required.
   3. Eight secondary sources maximum.
   4. Double Spaced, 1 inch margins, and Times New Roman 12 point font.
   5. Cite the Primary and Secondary texts according to MLA Guidelines.
   6. MLA Style formatting (PLEASE NO COVER pages)
   7. Include a works cited list including the poem you analyze AND your secondary sources!
   8. Revise rough draft for content
   9. Proofread your paper aloud for grammar and style.
   10. Refer to the grading rubric linked in the assignment drop box for grading details.
2. Save the assignment as “finalpaper_yourname.doc” (i.e., finalpaper_JasonVorhees.doc).
3. Access the Assignments link located on the Course Menu to upload the assignment as an attachment to the Final Paper drop box.