Three Plays 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. Discuss the use of symbolism and motif in Desire Under the Elms. What predominant motifs are described in the text? What themes do these symbolic images illuminate?

2. Compare the characters of Ephraim and Eben in Desire Under the Elms. How are these men alike? How are they different? What actions does each commit through the play?

3. Describe the plot arc of the play, Desire Under the Elms. Who is the protagonist of this play, and in what ways do the events revolve around this character? Define Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Resolution...
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