Over this unit, we the novel, The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole. We’ve talked about how we analyze these texts through three different reading strategies as well as the foundational tropes of the Gothic genre. Therefore, for this paper, we are going to pick one repeated idea (dreams, supernatural elements, “tyrant” or one of your own choice) to analyze the novel.
How:
1) Brainstorm — review your notes from class, and your reactions to the novel, then provide an argument for the significance of your chosen repeated element. Develop a concise thesis (no there is/there are sentences) statement to communicate your ideas.
2) Then, WRITE — a ONE PAGE essay by analyzing how this repeated idea impacts, functions, complicates, challenges or structures the novel.
a. Questions to consider (these are just to help your thinking, DO NOT try and address all of these):
i. How does the repeated supernatural elements of weather emphasize Manfred’s poor decisions? How does the repeated idea of dreams foreshadow Theodore’s true identity? Does the repeated idea of prophecies and apparitions mean that Manfred is doomed?
b. Make sure to use appropriate MLA citation and formatting and heading.
i. 12 point font, double spaced, Times New Roman Font, 1 inch margins
c. Use specific textual evidence from the readings.
d. Look at the rubric posted on Blackboard and on this sheet.
e. Follow the outline posted on Blackboard and referenced in class.
Thesis statement answers the question completely and clearly. Introduction presents clear and complete summary of evidence to be used in support of thesis statement.
Organization of the introduction is logical.
Conclusion extends the argument and explains its significance.
Evidence in support of thesis is accurate, specific, relevant, and sufficient. Essay clearly and effectively explains how particular examples support thesis statement.
The essay is well- organized. The purpose of each paragraph is clear, with strong topic sentences linked to the thesis. The content of each paragraph is consistent and appropriate. The paragraphs are logically sequenced.
Language is clear and powerful, there are no significant errors of spelling, grammar, or usage. The essay may show a distinctive and elegant writing style.
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