Assignment: Major Essay (%5 first draft, %15 final draft)
 
Write a 1200-1500 word essay (roughly 4-5 pages, standard 12pt font) on one of the following topics:
 

1. Can we say that Lysistrata, in Aristophanes’ Lysistrata, is a feminist character? Using specific examples from the text, present a critical analysis of how she is either a character that challenges or reinforces gender stereotypes of masculinity or femininity within Athenian society.

 
 

2. Theatre of the Absurd often condemns social relationships as shallow and illusory while presenting the individual person as ultimately alone. Discuss Samuel Beckett's treatment of friendship in his play Waiting for Godot. How does Beckett's representation of the relationship between the two companions Vladimir and Estragon serve to undermine and question the nature of friendship and memory (or knowledge)?

 
For whichever essay topic you choose, follow these general guidelines:

• Please write on only the texts specified in the question.

 

• Be sure to build a thesis that offers a strong and specific argument.

 

• Ensure that you use direct quotations (do not simply paraphrase!) from the text to support your points and fully discuss those quotations in a well developed and detailed close reading and analysis.

 

• Check that your evidence all relates back to your argument and works to "prove" it.

 

• You may not use secondary sources for this assignment. I am interested in your own ideas and close reading of the texts.

 

• In the first stages of writing, remember pre-writing and note taking techniques (brain storming, free writing, mind maps, etc.). These can really help you to get started and to develop your ideas more fully. Tables or charts are especially helpful for comparison essays. If you are not sure which topic to choose, consider brainstorming on both, and choose the one that you are most interested in after you generate some ideas.

注：本栏目重在收集一些海外留学文书的题目，以便加加留学编辑深入了解海外教育方式与发展形势，从而拓展个人陈述、推荐信等文书的写作思路。