Essay :

Directions:

1. Review HOW TO: Reading , Watching and Writing About Literature to sharpen your skills in recognizing the contributions of narrative point of view and symbolism and in articulating a theme.

2. Write an analytical essay 750 to 1000 words in length (3-5 pages on ONE of the following topics:

   1. Descriptive details of the ship, the San Dominick (colors, various places above and below deck, the figure-head, among others), create a pattern of symbolic meaning. Analyze the meaning of this symbolic pattern, as it contributes to theme of “Benito Cereno.” Be sure to state the theme as a complete idea in a complete sentence, as explained in the section on theme in the 'How To: Read, Watch, and Write About Literature' page.

   2. Analyze how "Benito Cereno" presents a theme concerned with the effects of slavery. Be sure to state the theme as a complete sentence that articulates -- as a complete idea -- what the story says about the effects of slavery. See explanation of how to do this in 'How To: Read, Watch, and Write About Literature'. The essay should then analyze how 3-4 elements of the story (e.g., setting, symbols, characters, events) present that theme.

   3. Analyze how the narrative point of view contributes to the story's theme. Be sure to state the theme as a complete idea in a complete sentence, as explained in 'How To: Read, Watch, and Write About Literature'

   DO NOT CONSULT OR USE OUTSIDE SOURCES IN WRITING YOUR ESSAY. PLAGIARISM IS DISHONEST AND WILL RESULT IN A SCORE OF 0 POINTS.

3. Download the CHECKLIST (also available in PDF format)
4. Complete checklist when ready and submit with your essay. YOU MUST SUBMIT THIS CHECKLIST WITH YOUR ESSAY IN ORDER FOR IT TO BE GRADED.
5. Save your essay as: [your last name]_essay.doc (example: Riggin_essay.doc)
6. Save your checklist as: [your last name]_checklist.doc (example: Riggin_checklist.doc)
7. Attach document to an email and email as directed below:

   Email instructions:

   Email to jriggin@nvcc.edu

   subject line should read:

   [your last name] Essay and Checklist

   Example: Riggin Essay and Checklist

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