This paper must critically engage with one or more of the literary texts examined
in class, as well as at least one of the critical essays covered in Criticism 1 or Criticism 2.
They should be between 750 – 1000 words (3-4 pages double spaced) in length. Choose from one of the topics.
1.In his essay What is Literature, Terry Eagleton discusses four common
definitions of literature (imaginative, estranging, self-referential, and
excellent writing), each of which he believes to be fatally flawed. Select one of
these definitions to defend against Eagletons critique, with reference to any one
of the following texts: Dickinson, [Because I could not stop for death]; Wilde,
Importance of Being Earnest; Aesop, The Grasshopper and the Ant.
2. Using Gordons description of the difference between subject and theme, explore
how poets use fixed form poetry to express their themes by comparing any two of
the three sonnets we have covered in class (Shakespeare [18]; Shelley,
Ozymandias; Millay [I, being born a woman]. Scan these works for rhyme and
rhythm to answer the following question: How do these poets use or adapt the
sonnet form to present their specific subject and theme?
3. Consider Stevensons Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in light of Aristotles arguments
about mimesis and catharsis. What is Stevenson imitating, or re-presenting,
in his novella, and what might the idea of catharsis suggest about the storys
enduring popularity?
4. With reference to specific characters and selections from Shakespeares play,
Twelfth Night, consider the politics of Coleridges notion of poetic faith. Why
might poetic faith be important for such a play, and what risks might it hold for
our understanding of the plays significance?