Margaret Laurence (1926-1987) was a Canadian novelist and short story writer, who is best known for her five novels set in the fictitious town of Manawaka, Manitoba She is often referred to as one of Canada's most beloved authors and was a recipient of the Governor General's Literary Award for fiction. Laurence's writing often addressed the themes of alienation and displacement, the importance of family and the bonds of friendship, and the struggle for the dignity and independence of Canadian women in a world dominated by men.
One interesting essay topic inspired by the work of Margaret Laurence is the exploration of the themes of alienation and displacement. Laurence's books examine the outsider status of many of her characters as they struggle to fit into Manawaka's traditional community, values and customs. The challenges and struggles faced by these characters as they attempt to find a sense of belonging and identity despite their differences could be explored in an essay, along with the various ways in which Laurence communicates her themes through the use of symbolism, characterisation and setting.
Another essay topic inspired by Laurence's work is the role of family and friendship. In Laurence's works, the characters often encounter difficult challenges and struggles and their families and friends are a source of strength and comfort. The strength of the bond between family members and the role of friendship in the lives of the characters could be explored, along with an examination of the importance of loyalty, understanding and support in times of crisis.
A third essay topic inspired by the work of Margaret Laurence is the examination of the struggle for the dignity and independence of Canadian women in a world dominated by men. Many of Laurence's characters are women who must grapple with a society that is often hostile to female power and autonomy. An essay could explore how Laurence communicates her message through her female characters, along with an examination of the various obstacles and barriers encountered by the women she writes about.
A fourth essay topic inspired by Laurence's work is the exploration of the Manawaka setting and its importance in her character's lives. Manawaka is a fictional town set in Manitoba and Laurence used it to represent a broader exploration of Canadian society. An essay could consider how Laurence used the town to convey her themes, along with an examination of the importance of the town's history, geography and culture in the lives of her characters.
The fifth essay topic inspired by the work of Margaret Laurence is a comparison between her works and those of other authors. Laurence is often compared to other authors such as Alice Munro and Margaret Atwood and an essay could consider how her works compare and contrast with their own. It could also explore similarities and differences in theme, characterisation, language and structure.