Kokoro 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. In a world of waning traditions, Soseki says there is a loneliness which emerges in the culture and among the people.

Part 1: Why do you think society becomes lonely without tradition?

Part 2: Do you agree that loneliness occurs when traditions fade? Why or why not?

Part 3: What traditions have faded from your life that you miss? Why?

2. This particular book has been translated from Japanese, which is often problematic in terms of conveying all of the meaning the author had in mind.

Part 1: Do you...
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