Question: For your first essay assignment, you will compare the heroic qualities of Victor Frankenstein with those of Gilgamesh: what trait(s) do you think the two characters share? To what extent does each character possess that trait and how does the trait affect the outcome of the text? As you consider your response, you should keep in mind our discussion of the period in which the text was written and the role of each character in his respective text. Remember, there is no "right" or "wrong" position on this topic: consider all of the factors mentioned previously and decide what you think.

To create a draft, think of your essay as an argument: choose a position; then defend that position by explaining why you feel that way. Your defense will come in the form of examples and details from the texts that you believe support your claim. The more "proof" you provide through examples and details (this includes appropriate, brief quotations, carefully documented), the stronger and more successful your argument will be.

To help you think about the essay topic - deciding on a position and generating ideas -- we will hold group discussions in class, you will take part in a peer review session in which you will work within your groups on a draft of the essay to refine your ideas and get feedback on them. As this is the first essay assignment, you will receive additional feedback by meeting with me individually to discuss your draft.