PAPER 4 (Research) TOPIC
Write a research argument on the following topic.
In this section of the course, you read two plays (one by Ibsen and
one by Williams). For this assignment, I’d like you to choose ONE of
the two plays and write a research paper in which you make a
literary argument (as defined in the links in this module titled
“Writing About Literature”).
In addition to quoting from the play you choose to write about, your
argument must be supported by outside sources (preferably ones your
find in the library’s databases and NOT through simple web searches).
Keep in mind that the reason for including research is to add credibility
to your stance by using the words of experts in the field.
Instructions:
• Paper should be at least six full double-spaced pages – the
basic format of your paper should be in MLA STYLE
• You must use at least five sources for your paper and each
must be cited both within the paper and on the Works Cited
page. You must quote from the play you choose (it’s one of
your five sources).
• Please incorporate what you’ve learned from the reading about
making effective arguments with evidence to back up your
claims.
• Part of the scoring for this paper will be based on making a
complex and original argument, so make your reasons as
specific as possible.
• I will check each paper on the web to see if it contains YOUR
WORK. Plagiarized papers will receive a grade of ZERO.
• See syllabus for due dates.
TIPS:
• It’s up to you what argument you make. Here are a couple of
options that you are welcome to choose?
o Did Nora make the right decision at the end of “A Doll’s
House”?
o Did Tom make the right decision to leave his family?”
o Will Nora return?
o What is it about your chosen play that has caused it to be
taught many decades after it first appeared? Why has it
lasted?
• Your research should help YOU make YOUR point. Look in the
academic databases and you’ll find many articles about your
chosen play. Perhaps you’ll find a scholar that directly agrees
with you (and you can quote that scholar as one of your
sources) or perhaps you’ll find a scholar who discusses
something about your play that you feel you can use to help
you make YOUR argument.
