Topic:
Discuss the theme of cultural hybridity in the The Jade Peony. In what ways do Chinese and Canadian cultures conflict, where and how do they overlap, and what methods do the characters use to navigate between them? What does it mean to be Chinese(-)Canadian and/or a “resident alien” in the text? How does this identity differ between characters?
The characters in The Jade Peony use a number of different dialects (formal and familiar, urban and village, old and new world Chinese, pidgin English, “Chinglish,” etc), which are mediated by the English in which the novel is written. Discuss this interplay of language in the text, and how it constructs different character and cultural identities.
The Jade Peony is divided in to three sections, each told from the perspective of a different child. With reference to one character or narrative point-of-view, discuss their perspective in terms of gender, age, friendships and family relationships, cultural attitude, etc, and how this perspective represents the family, community, and/or cultural conditions of the novel. Note: do not write a five-paragraph essay in which each of the three body paragraphs describes one of the sections/characters. Essays structured in this way will not receive a passing grade.
Use one of the assigned topics to write a 1000-word (four-page) analytical essay discussing the assigned text, following standard essay format. The essay must include a formal introduction, a conclusion, and a minimum of three body paragraphs.
Ensure the essay is double-spaced, uses 12-point Times New Roman font, and adheres to other MLA formatting guidelines (see MLA resources for details).
Demonstrate original analysis: no additional research is permitted. Do not consult Wikipedia, Course Hero, or any other resources for this assignment.
Ensure your assignment meets the requirements outlined below.
Requirements
Give your paper an original title that reflects the content of your argument.
Ensure your essay has a clear thesis from which your argument develops. The thesis must assert a critical position rather than provide mere observations about the text.
Keep your ideas specific to the text and avoid making assumptions or generalizations about the reader, the author, society, or the world outside of the text.
Avoid plot summary except where necessary to make your argument convincing. Focus on analysis and interpretation using close-reading practices.
Integrate quotations using introductory phrases or explanatory comments and cite the page number in parentheses following the quotation (using MLA format).
Include any quoted, paraphrased, or consulted material on your Works Cited page. No additional research should be used for this assignment, but it must be cited if used.
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