Comparative Argumentative Essay
In this assignment, you are to compare two works of literature that we have read in class. Use our class discussions to offer insight into ways of discussing and comparing what you have read. You can look at two different poems and compare elements, themes, tone, point of view, etc. OR you can compare two works written by the same author and note differences of style.
You may also choose to compare two works written by two different authors within the same period and look for differences or similarities. In this academic exercise, it is VERY IMPORTANT to avoid first-person acknowledgment. Many academic articles and writings exclude the use of the author recognizing him/herself (therefore, you should avoid the use of “I” as much as possible).
The second essay is a Compare and Contrast essay. As this is an essay where you will compare two works of literature (be it fiction or poetry), you should cite relevant passages from the works you are discussing in order to back up your argument. Make sure your arguments are clear and your writing concise. This is one exercise where you assume that your reader has a background in English (or literature).
Requirements Your essay will be between 4-7 pages in length. Essays should be written in 12-point Times New Roman font with standard margins. Essays should be double spaced. References should be cited in MLA-format within quotation marks, acknowledge parenthetically. Since this is an argumentative essay, your essay MUST include a thesis statement, which is the last sentence of the introductory paragraph. You MUST include a Works Cited page with your paper (the Works Cited DOES NOT count for the required page length).
Standard MLA format applies (page numbers/headers should appear on the upper right-hand side of the page and include the author’s last name and page number ONLY). "One Art," by Elizabeth Bishop "Death of a Young Son By Drowning," by Margaret Atwood "We Real Cool," by Brooks "The Raven," by Edgar Allan Poe "Cinderella," by Ann Sexton "Do Not go gentle into that good night," by Dylan Thomas "To His Coy Mistress," by Andrew Marvell
