The Executioner's Song 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. The idea of nature versus nurture is an obvious theme in this story. One might suppose that Gary was the product of his upbringing, while others might suggest he was simply an evil person.

Part 1: Cite at least two examples of supporting evidence that the environment was the cause of Gary's behavior.

Part 2: Cite at least two examples of supporting evidence that suggests Gary is simply an evil person.

Part 3: What do you think? Do you think Gary's environment or his biology led to his actions?