(each example 300-400 words)
English literature is a vast subject, encompassing written works from Medieval times to the present, from all over the world It is a popular subject for academic study and essay writing, as it allows for original thinking and exploration of complex ideas. When writing an essay about English literature, it is important to select an interesting and engaging topic for your essay.
One interesting and engaging essay topic in English literature is the concept of the “hero’s journey.” This is a concept developed by the scholar Joseph Campbell, and it is the idea that every hero must take a journey, either physical or metaphorical, in order to undertake the challenge at the heart of their quest. On this journey they must confront conflict, failure, and inner turmoil, before eventually being triumphant in the end. A good essay topic could explore the hero’s journey in a specific text, or across multiple texts to compare different interpretations and approaches.
Another interesting essay topic in English literature is the idea of the “unreliable narrator.” This refers to a narrator whose version of events or world may not be entirely accurate or believable. It can thus be used to great effect to create subtle layers of irony and subtext in a narrative. A great essay topic could explore the use of the unreliable narrator in a specific text, or across many texts to discuss the purpose and implications of the device.
A third interesting essay topic in English literature is the role of metafiction in narrative. Metafiction is a form of writing in which the writer consciously breaks the fourth wall, making use of self-referential elements to draw attention to the artificiality of the narrative. A great essay topic could explore the ways in which metafiction is used in a specific text, or across multiple texts to examine its effects on both the author and the reader.
A fourth interesting essay topic in English literature is the role of the supernatural in narrative. Supernatural elements can be used as metaphors to explore complex ideas, or to create tension and suspense. A great essay topic could explore the use of the supernatural in a specific text, or across many texts to discuss its implications and interpretations.
The fifth and final interesting essay topic in English literature is the role of the protagonist in narrative. The protagonist is the central character in a story, and their actions and motivations are seen as indicative of larger themes and ideas. A great essay topic could explore the ways in which a particular protagonist is used to explore a specific theme in a text, or across multiple texts to discuss their role in the narrative.
In conclusion, when writing an essay about English literature, it is important to select an interesting and engaging topic. Examples of interesting essay topics include the hero’s journey, the unreliable narrator, metafiction, the supernatural, and the role of the protagonist in narrative.