Essay Assignment

Write a 2-3 page (plus works cited page) on one of the following topics:

Sandra Cisneros "Barbie Q"

• How does Cisneros use the world as reflected in the outfits and appearance of Barbie dolls to comment on the real world in which the two girls live?

Louis Erdrich "The Red Convertible"

• Describe how the convertible reflects the changing relationship between the two brothers.

Joyce Carol Oates "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been"

• Describe Oates use of fairy tale elements in this story, including imagery, characterization, and plot.

Gish Jen "In the American Society"

• What are the major differences between the two worlds, "His Own Society" and "The American Society," described in the story? What do you think Jen is saying about immigrants and assimilation?

• Describe Mr. Chang's behavior toward and expectations of his employees. What beliefs are reflected in his behavior?

Le Minh Khue "The Distant Stars"

• How does the writer illustrate the differences between life in wartime and life either before or (as imagined or hoped for) after the war is over? Think about the Hanoi scenes and the future plans the girls discuss.

Robert Olen Butler "A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain

• Discuss the issue of moral responsibility as it pertains to the major characters in the story

Leslie Marmon Silko

• Describe the issue of identity in this story. How does the writer use Native American myths to address the concept of identity?

Monica Wood "Disappearing"

• Why does the narrator want to change her body? Relate this to her family, herself, and how others view her.

Ursula K. LeGuin "The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas"

• What do you think of the ones who walk away? Who are they and what does their behavior signify?

Jhumpa Lahiri

• What are the major conflicts in the marriage and hy does Shoba finally decide to leave Shukumar?

Hanif Kureishi "My Son the Fanatic"

• Describe how the concept of assimilation differs between the generations. Use details to illustrate these differences. What is Kureishi saying about cultural assimilation in Britain?