Description

Write a fully developed paragraph/paragraphs on each of the following topics. Make sure you use quotations to support your assertions. You should use a solid paragraph form, as we’ve discussed in class, to show in-depth analysis. DO NOT SUMMARIZE! As well, take care with sentence construction, grammar, and spelling

DO NOT USE THE SAME QUOTE (OR EXAMPLE) MORE THAN ONCE.

1) One paragraph structure: (15 pts.) Discuss how an aspect of Bottom’s transformation in A Midsummer Night’s Dream emphasizes ONE aspect of the idea of “light” (from the theme of light/dark) in the play. Analyze your quote thoroughly to defend your assertion.

2) One paragraph structure (15 pts.) In A Midsummer Night’s Dream, how would Puck, as an “outsider,” view one of the lovers? Briefly discuss one of Puck’s character traits, then use that trait as a lens to show how Puck would evaluate one of the lovers. Show in-depth analysis! 

3) 4) Two paragraph structure: (25 pts.) In one paragraph, discuss how Jung’s idea of the shadow connects with the idea of Narcissus’ absorption with his own reflection, in Ovid’s myth of “Narcissus and Echo.” Then in a second paragraph, show how this same idea connects to the idea of transformation of one’s identity in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Remember to use specific quotes from both works in each paragraph to do a thorough analysis.

5) 6) Two paragraph structure: (25 pts.) In one paragraph, discuss the idea of paradox (about the human condition) in one of the Tao poems we read. Then in a second paragraph, connect this idea, as specifically as you can, with a paradox that Shakespeare seems to be implying about love (in MND). Use good paragraph form to show in-depth analysis! 

7) One paragraph structure: (20 pts.) Discuss whether you think A Midsummer Night’s Dream is ultimately proposing a chaotic, playful, creative world, 2) a rational, orderly, safe world, or 3) a world that includes both the rational and the irrational. In other words, what message or warning, do you feel Shakespeare is giving us about our world? Think about the quote you use to defend your assertion, then analyze it carefully. Remember: Do not use a quote or example you have already used.

Example paragraph:

Ismene is conflicted because deep down she wants to respect her brother and give him a proper burial. She decides that following Kreon’s law is more important, because as the king he has the superior decision making power. She explains her decision to Antigone saying, “I want the spirits of the dead to understand this: I’m not free. I must obey whoever is in charge_ (Sophocles, ll 78-80). By Ismene’s saying that she “wants the spirits of the dead to understand,” she makes it clear that she does not disregard these spirits completely. She has respect for the spirits of the dead and wants to justify herself to them, for not obeying their rules and traditions. However, she “must obey whoever is in charge,” and she decides that Kreon, as king, has the power in this situation to influence her. In making this decision, she prioritizes the authority of Kreon and the city over the authority of the dead and tradition. Ismene disapproves of Antigone’s choice to disregard the laws of the land and bury her brother, and she does not believe Antigone will be successful.