AP Literature and Composition! - Hunterdon Central Regional High ...

Assignment #2 (25 points)Select one of the works from the list below and complete the following assignment.Explain how the author uses a specific literary device or element (ex: character development,symbol, point of view, plot structure, setting) to illustrate a specific theme or idea the authordevelops throughout the novel. When coming up with a thesis statement, do not summarize thenovel. For example, the thesis statement “In Heart of Darkness, Joseph Conrad usescharacterization to reveal a theme of transformation throughout the novel” is too broadbecause it does not mention how Conrad comments on transformation. An improved thesisreads: “Conrad’s characterization reveals the idea that environment transforms the individualphysically, intellectually and psychologically, while intensifying certain innate traits.” Thisthesis statement shows Conrad’s attitude toward transformation and how it is presented in thenovel.Length requirement: 600 words (no longer).Please double space and use a 12 point Times New Roman font size. Be sure to include textualsupport (direct quotations) in defense of your argument.This analysis is due on the first day of class.* Please see the note on plagiarism and academic integrity at the end of this document!A few words on theme statements:A good theme statement is an assertion (yours) of what you feel to be the author’s mainargument (philosophical, moral, world-view, etc.) in the work. If your paper had to be reduced to asingle sentence, it should be your theme statement. Many students have a tendency to arrive at their truetheme statement when composing the conclusion. This is generally the result of not having a clear themebefore writing and allowing one to emerge through the writing. While this approach may be a wonderfuljourney of discovery for the writer, who finally arrives at what he or she thinks about the piece, it isgenerally disconcerting for the reader who is trying to find a main idea to follow.“Material wealth is a theme in The Great Gatsby.”The above is not an appropriate statement of theme. It says nothing.“The Buchanans illustrate the evil influences of wealth.”This also is not an appropriate statement of theme.“Material wealth corrupts the rich and destroys the poor.”Now, this is an appropriate statement of theme. WHY?It is in the form of a complete declarative sentence.It expresses an opinion.It is written in a general format without specific references to characters or situations in thenovel.