Choice #1: Read James Joyce’s “Eveline” through a critical lens or a combination of two closely-related lenses and offer an interpretive analysis.
What factors or forces are oppressing Eveline? How is she being kept from realizing her dream? What is her dream? Do economic considerations play a part in keeping Eveline stuck in her role as substitute homemaker after her mother’s death? If so, how? Discuss the sense of duty and responsibility she might feel, and how these feelings might play a part in hindering her from achieving personal happiness. Describe some of the ways that Eveline is paralyzed if you believe she is frozen with fear or indecision, and why she ultimately finds herself unwilling or unable to change her situation.
Choice #2: Compose a New Critical essay that examines the Andrew Marvell poem “To His Coy Mistress.”
What is the speaker trying to accomplish? What strategies does he employ in his attempt at reaching his goal? Consider the three stanzas of this poem: compare and contrast the feelings expressed in each of them. At one point, the poem exhibits a sudden and abrupt change in mood. Identify this moment, and explain why it is effective. What specific words does the speaker use to try to “close the sale?” Describe the elements of this piece that would enable a reader to classify this as a carpé diem poem. Look at the first few words of each stanza: compare and contrast the different feelings that are evoked by these words or phrases.
