EGL 102 - Paper #1 Essay Topics Professor J.

Mignano-Brady

Due Date Thursday, September 29th Directions: This assignment requires you to write a paper based on the plays read/discussed in class. The paper must be 3 pages and written in MLA format. It should have a proper heading, in text citation and a Works Cited Page. This paper will require you to think critically about the literature and respond accordingly. This assignment requires you to provide concrete examples and quotes to support your ideas. Choose ONE of the following essay topics: Option 1 Expository Essay Sophocles said The greatest griefs are those we cause ourselves." Explore the concept of the tragic hero. Express how Antigone may be perceived as the classical Greek tragic hero? Discuss the conflicts that contribute to the overall downfall of the main character(s) in the play? Option 2- Expository Essay Dramatic Irony occurs when the audience (viewer or reader) has certain knowledge about which a character is in ignorance. Therefore, the character does not fully understand the significance of what he or she says and does. Discuss how Sophocles uses the literary device of Irony through the portrayal of his characters. Hint * Think about Creons, behavior and dialogue. Do you believe Antigone to be a Martyr? Option 3 - There is no happiness where there is no wisdom; No wisdom but in submission to the gods. Big words are always punished, And proud men in old age learn to be wise. Analyze and interpret the quote. Discuss the powerful importance these lines have on the elements of conflict displayed in Sophocles Antigone. To what extent do these words have profound significance? Option 4: In the play A Streetcar Named Desire, Williams uses many symbols and motifs as a technique to illustrate higher ideas. Symbolism and recurrent thematic elements represent profound ideas not necessarily explicit in the play. Discuss both symbolism and motif as it relates to the play and authors technique. Option 5- Comparative Discuss the concept of gender inequality. Compare Sophocles Antigone to Williams A Streetcar Named Desire. Illustrate the ideas communicated in each play by highlighting the theme of gender inequality depicted in one of the following: the plot, setting, character (s) or time period. Option 6- Discuss two themes and the significance of theme as it relates to the character (s) and the play A Streetcar Named Desire. Option 7 -Your choice! Is there a particular topic that interests you? Has something from class and or our discussion of the literature sparked your interest? Is there a particular theme or concept that you would like to explore? Creative ideas are welcome! Please feel free to contact me after class to discuss your ideas!

EGL 102 - Paper #1 Essay Topics Professor J.Mignano-Brady