Examine the various romantic relationships described in the metaphysical poetry we read.

Assignment Instructions

Instructions: Develop an essay of 750 to 1000 words minimum/maximum with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Include a works cited page.

Be sure to argue a particular point of view in your essay (your thesis) and cite various examples and short quotes from the readings in MLA format in order to support your perspective. Please focus on the reading themselves, and avoid using outside sources. Do not do any outside research on your subject and base your analysis on your own understanding of the text.

This assignment is due Sunday of Week 6.

Choose one of the following themes to explore with reference to one of the assigned readings from Weeks 4 to 6:

Examine the various romantic relationships described in the metaphysical poetry we read. What are the roles of men and women in these relationships?  Can you generalize about gender roles in courtship?

Malory was trying to entertain us and Spenser was trying to edify us. Compare and contrast Malory’s Lancelot with Spenser’s Redcrosse. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each of these heroes? What is the significance of their similarities and differences?

Discuss a difficult decision faced by one of these characters: Milton’s Satan, Bunyan’s Christian, or Behn’s Oroonoko.  What is the moral dilemma involved?  How does the character reach his decision? What do you think that the author is trying to teach us about free will?

As you explore these themes, be sure to consider secondary characters as well to develop a full picture. Look for what the author is trying to teach us.

Submission Instructions: Submit your completed essay here for grading. It must be a Word document ending in .doc, .docx, or .rtf.  Assignment 1 due Sunday, week 6, by11:55 pm, ET