COMPOSITION ASSIGNMENT

The purpose of this paper is to analyze society or a part of it. This paper can focus on a work of literature or an analysis of a segment of our society (either presently or historically: note that a historical approach should show an insight to modern society), a segment of the population represented in film or television, or an element of society shown through another medium (I advise pre-approval for this option).

For a literary analysis of society, pay close attention to any descriptions of a characters, attitudes of characters, actions and reactions of the characters, roles in society, how characters are treated, and other literary elements that might speak to a problem or explanation of society or a group within society (symbolism, setting, imagery, and so on). Consider questions such as:

• What has made the characters think/act this way?
• How did the character become like this?
• What social conventions or rules confine the characters?
• What situation have historic, economic, cultural, or other contributors created?
• Are there examples of isolation or alienation?" If so, "What are the social causes of this?
• Are there examples of domination or control?" If so, "Who has the power/authority and who is under this power/authority?
• Is the dignity or autonomy of individuals harmed?" How? By whom?
• What does all of this show about our society?

Most of these questions, as well as the elements for consideration in the above paragraph, will also apply to film and television analysis and, often, to real social problems. Sometimes, in film and television, it's helpful to also look at what "type" of person the characters are or what roles do they play. You may also want to consider questions such as:

• Do these characters portray a stereotype or biased representation of a certain group of people?
• Do these characters help to demonize or elevate a person, group of people, attitude, or idea?
• Do the characters conform to or break from social stereotypes?
• What struggles (internally or externally) do the characters face and how do the characters face them?

Many of these questions and considerations can lead to a good analysis of real segments of the population. You'll probably want to focus more on the background and history (biography) of real people and look for insights there.