This assignment asks that you analyze one or more pieces of American Literature from the earliest Native American writing and Explorers to 1865. You may choose a piece we have discussed in class for this discussion, or you may make your own choices as long as the primary materials fall into the appropriate category of American Literature prior to 1865. I would highly recommend speaking with me about your topics as soon as you have an idea about what you would like to write about. Essays must focus on the literature!  

1. Traditional Paper – Examine themes and the way that characters, imagery, irony, or other literary devices are developed in the piece to depict and imply themes. Know the differences between a close reading of the plot and an interpretation of the theme. For texts that are not poetry or fiction, demonstrate how the primary text or texts apply to general concepts of the era or modern times.  

Requirements  

Each essay should be about 7 pages long, and should be written in MLA format (which means you must document any quotes from the text and include a works cited page). Use 12 point Times New Roman Font and Double Space your essays. Remember, this is a research paper which means you must use at least 6 critical sources (4 must be literary criticism).