The Rape of Nanking 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. Compare and contrast the ways in which the events in Nanking differ from a "normal" wartime occupation. How was the focus different in Nanking? In what ways does the Rape of Nanking seem more horrific than other occupations, and why? How were the rules seemingly different in this case?

2. In most successful wars and occupations, the master-race theme is often present. Japan used the master-race mentality to justify its occupation of China, just as Nazi Germany used the master-race idea to justify its crimes against Jews, gypsies, and other political "undesirables." Why is this mindset...
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