Beginning Theory: An Introduction to Literary and Cultural Theory Papers & Assignment Topics

Essay Topics/Writing Assignments

These 20 essay questions can be used as essay questions on a test, or as stand-alone essay topics for a take-home or in-class writing assignment. Students should have a full understanding of the text in order to answer these questions. They ask for a thorough analysis of the text.

1. Analyze and describe the organizational structure of New Historicism theory.

2. Distinguish modernism from post-modernism according to the book "Beginning Theory." Be sure to include the origin of both theories.

3. Explain how Peter Barry draws a parallel between gay and lesbian theory.

4. Describe and discuss how the women's movement is relevant to feminine criticism, as well as lesbian feminine criticism.

5. Explain Edgar Allan Poe's impact on structuralism. Be sure to cite Poe's literary works and discuss how they fit into the structuralist theory.

6. Identify, analyze, and discuss the...
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