English 201-3004 Introduction to LiteratureSpring 2022
Instructor: Professor Yolande Brener
Drama Assignment
Proposal 03/17
First Draft 03/24
Final Draft 04/07
Please submit via Blackboard.
750-1000 words.
You will write a thesis driven essay which presents a personal reaction, opinion and exploration of the play, Fences by August Wilson.
You will find at least one supporting source from the BMCC library. Your source can be a biography of the writer, an examination of the main topic of the play, or a comparison with a newer work on a similar topic.
You will cite both the play and the secondary source using correct MLA format.
Analyze the relationship between Troy and Cory using sections of the play. Think about whether the message is still relevant today, or does the character’s motivation still seem resonant. You can also examine Troy and Cory’s relationship from the perspective of another character such as Rose.
Questions to think about:
- What does Troy want from Cory?
- What does Cory want from Troy?
- How does the symbolism of the fence play into the father son relationship?
- Who, if anyone, shows most growth by the end of the play?
Remember that a thesis has a topic, and opinion and reasons for the opinion. You can use the template from the research paper as a guide, if you find it helpful.
Rubric
A –The essay is interesting, original, and focused. It is easy to follow, has a clear beginning, middle and end, and sticks to the point. The writing shows comprehension of work we have studied in class, uses examples from the play, and one extra source found in the BMCC library.
B— Paper is mostly consistent and interesting but lacks focus in parts, or is difficult to follow. The writing uses at least one example from the play and one other source.
C— Paper is somewhat consistent and has some points of interest but is mostly confusing. The writing shows little comprehension of the play and its themes.
D — Paper shows some effort but either doesn’t use the play or does not make sense.
F— There is no paper.
