The English Department is composed of busy faculty members whom you know from casual conversation hold a range of different positions on what is vital and expendable in the curriculum. Thus, lead with your main idea, develop your argument through prominent topic sentences, respectfully anticipate counter-positions, identify and analyze possible assumptions that might contribute to different conclusions, and write clearly and concisely. Proofread your essay so your readers take your argument seriously.

QUESTION

Imagine you are a high school English teacher. Though the English department initially allotted one week for studying each of the literary elements listed below, due to a possum infestation, the principal has announced that the school will need to be closed for a week, requiring one of these elements to be cut. To help faculty reach a consensus on what to cut, the department chair has asked all Engl ish faculty members to write and circulate their recommendations with detailed support for which element should be cut out and which elements are essential. Please submit a 1,000-word, double-spaced position paper, written with the English faculty as your audience, explaining which of the elements is most expendable (and could be cut) and which one is most necessary (and should therefore not be cut) and why. Please analyze at least three specific readings from LIT100 to explain why certain elements are essential or inessential to appreciating literature, as your colleagues value concrete examples.

Literary elements under consideration: Plot, point of view, character, setting, tone, imagery, rhyme sche me, figurative comparisons, word choice, tragedy, and identification of theme.

The English Department is composed of busy faculty members whom you know from casual conversation hold a range of different positions on what is vital and expendable in the curriculum. Thus, lead with your main idea, develop your argument through prominent topic sentences, respectfully anticipate counter-positions, identify and analyze possible assumptions that might contribute to different conclusions, and write clearly and concisely. Proofread your essay so your readers take your argument seriously.

ANSWER

The Expendable and the Essential: A Deliberation on Literary Elements

Introduction

As esteemed colleagues in the English Department, I write this position paper with utmost respect and a genuine desire to contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding the literary elements that are vital to our curriculum. While acknowledging the challenging circumstances caused by the possum infestation, I intend to analyze the various elements under consideration and propose a recommendation for which element can be cut and which one should remain. By examining concrete examples from three readings in LIT100, we can better appreciate the indispensability of certain elements and the relative expendability of others.

Main Idea

In light of the possum-inflicted setback, the element that can be cut from our curriculum without compromising the integrity of literary analysis is the identification of theme. Conversely, the element that should remain intact is character, as it forms the foundation for a deep and empathetic engagement with literature.

Developing the Argument

The Expendable: Identification of Theme

The identification of theme, though valuable, can be viewed as a relatively expendable literary element within the curriculum. While themes offer insights into a text’s broader significance and message, they often emerge organically through the interaction of other literary elements. Themes are more subjective and abstract compared to other elements, and their extraction may hinder students’ genuine engagement with the text.

To support this claim, let us consider F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.” While the central themes of the American Dream and the corrupting influence of wealth are integral to the novel, they emerge naturally through the exploration of other elements (Wulick, n.d.). Students can appreciate the themes by analyzing the intricate characterization of Jay Gatsby, the vivid descriptions of the opulent setting, and the masterful use of symbolism and imagery. Thus, while theme identification is beneficial, it is not essential for a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of literature.

The Essential: Character

Characterization, on the other hand, stands as an essential element in our curriculum. Characters are the lifeblood of any narrative, serving as conduits through which readers can explore complex human emotions, motivations, and experiences. By empathizing with characters, students develop a deeper understanding of the human condition, fostering emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills.

For instance, in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the character of Atticus Finch epitomizes moral integrity, compassion, and the fight against injustice (Taylor, 2017). Through the meticulous portrayal of Atticus, students gain invaluable insights into social issues, racial discrimination, and the complexities of human nature. The examination of character in this novel goes beyond mere identification; it allows students to dissect motivations, analyze relationships, and grasp the subtleties of moral dilemmas. Such depth of understanding is indispensable for nurturing well-rounded literary analysis.

Addressing Counter-Positions: Word Choice and Plot

While some might argue for the expendability of word choice or plot, it is crucial to recognize their significance in the overall literary experience. Word choice, along with imagery, tone, and figurative comparisons, contributes to the richness of language and enhances the sensory experience for readers. Without careful consideration of words, the intended impact of a literary work may be lost, reducing its effectiveness and literary merit.

Similarly, plot, as the backbone of a narrative, propels the story forward and captivates readers. Without a compelling plot, readers may struggle to engage with the work or discern its underlying themes and messages (Kidder, 2022). The plot structure aids in pacing, tension, and the development of character arcs, reinforcing the significance of plot as an essential element in literary analysis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, given the challenging circumstances presented by the possum infestation, the element that can be cut from our curriculum is the identification of theme. While themes offer valuable insights, they emerge organically through the interplay of other elements. However, the element that should remain intact is character, as it forms the basis for a profound and empathetic understanding of literature. By examining concrete examples from LIT100, such as “The Great Gatsby” and “To Kill a Mockingbird,” we have demonstrated the essential nature of character and the relatively expendable nature of theme identification. Let us come together as a department and engage in fruitful discussion to ensure our curriculum remains robust and comprehensive even in the face of unexpected challenges.

References

Kidder, H. L. (2022, October 18). Plot-Driven vs Character-Driven Stories [7 Examples Included]. Self Publishing School. https://self-publishingschool.com/plot-driven-vs-character-driven/ 

Taylor, M. (2017). Summary Overview. www.academia.edu. https://www.academia.edu/32708370/Summary_Overview 

Wulick, A. (n.d.). Best Analysis: The American Dream in The Great Gatsby. https://blog.prepscholar.com/the-great-gatsby-american-dream