Essays and Research Papers on American Literature

A 3 page paper which examines the relevance of the title in Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle.” No additional sources cited.

A 5 page paper which examines the symbolism used by Nathaniel Hawthorne in three of his stories: “My Kinsman, Major Molineux,” “Young Goodman Brown,” and “The Maypole of Merry Mount.” Bibliography lists 5 sources.

A 3 page research paper/essay that analyzes how Harold Krebs, Hemingway's protagonist in "Soldier's Home," fits the criteria for being an anti-hero. The writer analyzes Hemingway's characterization of Krebs, arguing that he is an anti-hero. Bibliography lists 3 sources.

A paper which looks at some of the main themes in Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter, including the story of Adam and Eve, the concept of evil as exemplified by The Black Man, and the function of society as civilisation in the wilderness. Bibliography lists 5 sources.

This 6 page paper discusses the novel by Graham Greene called The Quiet American. A character analysis is given, themes discussed. Bibliography lists 1 source.

A 3 page essay that discusses the use of imagery in twentieth century writer Alice Walker's "The Flowers" and nineteenth century author Kate Chopin's "The Story of an Hour." The writer argues that both writers use imagery to heighten the effect of their narratives on the reader. In both stories, imagery that portrays a vitally-alive ...

A 3 page review and analysis of Mary Daheim’s novel “The Alpine Escape.” Bibliography lists 2 sources.

A 3 page paper which examines the themes of money and class in Flannery O’Connor’s story “Everything That Rises Must Converge.” No additional sources cited.

A 4 page paper which examines how Thomas Gray’s observation “Where ignorance is bliss Tis fully to be wise” applies to Flannery O’Connor’s story “Good Country People” and Toni Cade Bambara’s story “The Lesson.” No additional sources cited.

This 5 page paper discusses the significance of boundaries and limits in Conrad's, "Heart of Darkness". This issue is examined in terms of the character, plot and symbolism in the story. Bibliography list 1 source.

This 3 page paper is a persuasive essay that asserts Shakespeare's version of Henry V was both virtuous and honorable. Furthermore, these qualities are examined and based upon the Aristotoelian view of virtue and honor. Bibliography lists 3 sources.

A paper which considers the text from the point of view of rhetorical analysis, particularly with regard to the rational narrative, and considers the different perspectives a contemporary and a modern audience would adopt. Bibliography lists 8 sources.

A 4 page research paper/essay that analyzes the second chapter of Henry David Thoreau's Walden, "Where I lived and what I lived for." The writer argues that the critical evaluation of Walden that sees it as a pastoral fantasy does not take into account the social criticism inherent in this text. Bibliography lists 5 sources.

A 3 page paper which provides an overview of Upton Sinclair and his work “The Jungle.” Bibliography lists 1 additional source.

A paper which looks at the way in which the character of the grandmother is presented in Flannery O'Connor's A Good Man is Hard to Find, with particular reference to the concept of the "lady" in Southern culture, and the influence of religion on O'Connor's works. Bibliography lists 4 sources

This 6 page paper examines the sweeping changes in character throughout the novel, particularly noting the generational shifts exemplified by characterization, setting, politics, themes. Quotes cited from the text. Synopsis included. Bibliography lists 1 source.

A paper which considers the role of white men and women in society as seen in Schenkkan's The Kentucky Cycle, with particular reference to the gender divisions in a patriarchal society. Bibliography lists 1 source.

A 5 page paper which examines what Freud’s analysis would be of Edgar Allen Poe’s stories “The Black Cat” and “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” as they relate to Poe’s attitudes and beliefs towards women. Bibliography lists 3 sources.

A 3 page paper which examines how Thoreau’s beliefs as expressed in “Civil Disobedience” were similar to those of Jesus Christ. No additional sources are used.

This is a 4 page paper discussing Edith Wharton’s short story “Roman Fever” including several elements of fiction which are used such as plot, characters, language, setting, theme, points of view and imagery among others. American writer Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was born into a wealthy New York family and throughout her career spent a great ...

A 4 page paper which examines 3 literary critiques of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s short story “Young Goodman Brown.” Bibliography lists 3 sources.

This is a 4 page paper discussing Wharton’s use of control and formality to cover the deceptive nature of her characters. Upon reading Edith Wharton’s 1936 short story “Roman Fever”, readers are initially captured by the intriguing story of two middle-aged women in Rome. However, what is not initially apparent is Wharton’s use of control, ...

This 3 page paper discusses the story: The Hand, by Sidonie Colette. Symbolism, feminist themes explained. Quotes cited from text. Bibliography lists 3 sources.

A 4 page essay that analyzes the role of Happy Loman in Arthur Miller's play. The writer describes Hap's character, as well as how he embodies his father's misconception of the American Dream and shallow values system. No additional sources cited.

This 12 page paper discusses the remark made by Cyril Connolley about the element of despair in Fitzgerald's works. The Great Gatsby and Diamond as Big as the Ritz are examined and exampled. Bibliography lists 3 sources.