Reference no: EM132313731
Purpose:
The third essay this semester, which must be 6 pages in length, is a Persuasive/Argumentative Essay. This essay is an opportunity to practice analysis once more as you present and defend a unique argument about your assigned topic. Your task here will be to follow Jeffrey Jerome Cohen's example in "Monster Theory" and propose and defend a theory that explains the purpose of the monster narrative. Previously, you've been asked to define the terms of monstrosity and determine whether or not a specific "monster" fits in with your definition. Here, you will go one step further and investigate the larger implications of the monster narrative. Your theory--as with any argument--should be unique/come from your own analysis. That said, it is fine if your theory happens to overlap with other commonly held theories. This essay encourages you to create and develop your own argument and to persuade others to see its validity.
Process:
In this essay you will choose one general monster narrative and argue your position for its purpose. Potential narratives include: vampires, zombies, sea monsters, ghosts/paranormal, werewolves, etc. Once you've chosen your narrative, you will define the terms of your analysis by 1) providing a brief history of your narrative and its common themes/popular interpretations and 2) choosing 2 primary texts as evidence (these can be short/long texts, film, TV, etc.). You will then argue your position by way of analyzing your chosen texts through the lens of your "theory." Your argument should be framed within the larger context, thus addressing the various theories in contrast with your own. Keep your essay on track with the following guidelines: Introduce the context of your argument (i.e., the "larger conversation" surrounding your narrative and the texts you've chosen). Present a clear thesis statement that presents your unique theory and how it fits in with the larger conversation(s) about the monster narrative. Briefly summarize your texts, and choose specific elements from each text to analyze in support of your argument. Don't forget to draw connections between your texts. Present a well-crafted comparative analysis that reaches beyond the texts themselves. Determine how the texts support your argument independently and together. Be written in MLA format (12 point, Times New Roman font, double-spaced, 1 inch margins). Your essay should also have a unique title that indicates what your essay will be about. Properly incorporate 4-5 outside sources. You are allowed to use 1 class reading as a source. Include a proper Works Cited page with all sources cited. This does not count toward your page minimum.