Reading Quiz, Essay Guidelines

There will be a quiz based on the reading assigned for this week in class on Friday, so be sure you're prepared.

Also, here are some guidelines for the first essay which is due soon.

Length: Approx. 1000 words, no more than 1200
Format: Typed, standard citation format (MLA or Chicago Manual of Style)


Topic: open, but it should be a specific topic on one of the films we have watched so far in class. It should have an analytical focus on one specific aspect or theme of the film. You may and should refer to outside source material to help illustrate your ideas, but don't focus too much on this (this will be a greater emphasis in your second longer essay). Try to write on something that intrigues you about the film you choose. Do some free writing to explore what you have to say about it.

Since this is a relatively short essay, every word counts, so don't waste space quoting outside sources at length. I'm far more interested in your own original ideas and analysis.

Make sure your topic is focused and specific. Explore different approaches. Maybe you're interested in looking at the production elements of the film, or maybe themes interest you more. Maybe you're interested in writing about the visual design of DELICATESSEN. How does the visual design support the themes of the film? Is there a specific aesthetic the filmmakers are going for? Do the design choices support these thematic elements? Why or why not?

Maybe you want to write about the portrayal of good and evil in AU REVOIR LES ENFANTS. But this is a somewhat general topic. What about this interests you? What approach can you take? Are good and evil found in obvious places? Maybe you want to write about the ways in which war affects morality in general and how that is portrayed in the film. Or maybe you find that the realistic tone of the film allows this subject to be addressed in a unique way.

Ask yourself plenty of questions in the preliminary stages of exploring your topic so that you can solidify and clarify it in a solid thesis statement, which introduces your essay. It's through exploring potential questions that you can arrive at a topic that feels both comfortable and challenging.

You're encouraged to ask for help with your essay. You can visit the Writing Center in the Liberal Arts office in the Tower Bldg. Or you can email any questions or drafts to me and I'd be happy to give you feedback and help you.