Short paper 3
LIT 500 Module Three Short Paper Guidelines and Rubric You have now been introduced to all of the theories that will be discussed in this course. In this short paper, you will compose a brief analysis in which you compare the impact of the diverse theoretical approaches that can be used to interpret Heart of Darkness. You will select two of the four theoretical schools studied in this course and assess how elements of Joseph Conrad’s text may be viewed through these perspectives. You may explore elements such as plot development, theme, imagery, language use/discourse, character development, and so on. How do your two chosen theories change your perspective on Conrad’s novella? Which theory do you think is most effective and why? Keep the following in mind:

? You should emphasize the analysis of Conrad’s text and avoid plot summaries, reportage, and value judgments.

? Use two of the four theoretical perspectives to conduct the theoretical analysis.

? Utilize a comparative theoretical approach, with equal use of both perspectives in the analysis of well-selected (selected by you) passages from the text.

? Apply the theoretical perspectives in an analysis of the text. Make sure you are not summarizing or discussing the theories. They should be used only to analyze Conrad’s novella.

? Clearly state which theory you think is the most effective in analyzing Conrad’s novella. Make sure to include your reasons and point to specific examples that illustrate your choice.

This assignment will help prepare you for your final project. Think of it as a short practice run. Guidelines for Submission: Your paper must be submitted as a two-page Microsoft Word document with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, one- inch margins, and at least three sources cited in MLA format.

Critical Elements Proficient (100%) Needs Improvement (70%) Not Evident (0%) Value

Theories Utilizes two theories discussed in the course in the analysis of well-selected passages and avoids plot summaries, reportage, and value judgments

Utilizes two theories discussed in the course, but the passages are not well selected, or includes plot summaries, reportage, and/or value judgments

Does not utilize two theories discussed in the course in the analysis of selected passages

30

Analysis Applies the theoretical perspectives in an analysis of the text and avoids summarizing or discussing the theories

Applies the theoretical perspectives in the analysis of the text but does include a summary or discussion of the theories outside of the analysis of Conrad’s novella

Does not apply the theoretical perspectives in an analysis of the text

30

Effectiveness States which theory is the most effective in analyzing Conrad’s novella, includes reasons for this choice, and utilizes specific examples to illustrate choice

States which theory is most effective in analyzing Conrad’s novella and includes reasons for this choice but does not utilize specific examples to illustrate choice

States which theory is most effective in analyzing Conrad’s novella but does not include reasons for this choice

30

Writing Mechanics Submission remains in the formal third person, has no major errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization

Submission mostly remains in the formal third person and/or has major errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization that negatively impact readability and articulation of main ideas

Submission frequently employs the first or second person and has critical errors related to citations, grammar, spelling, syntax, or organization that prevent understanding of ideas

10

Earned Total 100%