“I Sit and Look Out” by Walt Whitman
Use a selected literary theory to analyse Walt Whitman’s poem “I Sit and Look Out” for this section. It is necessary that you interact critically with the text, to enhance your comprehension and analysis of the poetry. For guidance, please see the guidelines and marking criteria listed below.
Guidelines:
1. Choose one literary theory discussed in class or research one independently.
2. Write an essay analyzing Walt Whitman’s poem “I Sit and Look Out” through the chosen literary theory. Consider how the theory helps you interpret the poem in a new light, providing insights into its themes, style, and structure.
3. Your essay should be well-structured, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that engage with the text and theory, and a concise conclusion that summarizes your analysis.
4. Pay attention to close reading and textual evidence to support your argument. Include quotations from the poem to illustrate your points.
5. The essay should be between 800-1000 words, typed, double-spaced, with proper citations and a works cited page if necessary.

“Everyday Use” by Alice Walker

For this short story, use a feminist literary theory to analysis of Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use”. Examine how the narrative addresses issues of gender, identity, power dynamics, and female relationships in your analysis. Please refer to the guidelines and marking rubric provided below for guidance.

Guidelines:

1. Literary Theory: Apply Feminist Literary Theory to analyze the portrayal of female characters and gender roles in “Everyday Use”. Consider how the characters of Mama, Dee, and Maggie embody feminist themes of agency, power, and identity.
2. Essay Structure:
o Introduction: Provide an overview of Feminist Literary Theory and its relevance to the analysis of “Everyday Use”.
o Body Paragraphs: Discuss how gender, mother-daughter relationships, and cultural heritage are depicted in the story through feminist lens. Analyze the characters’ actions, dialogues, and conflicts.
o Conclusion: Summarize the key findings of your feminist analysis and reflect on how the theory enhances your understanding of the story.
3. Supporting Evidence: Use textual evidence from the story to support your analysis. Quote specific passages that exemplify feminist themes or character dynamics.
4. Essay Length: The essay should be between 800-1000 words, typed, double-spaced, with proper citations if necessary.

Answers to Above Questions

Answer 1: The specific theory that is selected for the purpose of analysing Walt Whitman’s poem is Marxist literary theory. The main focus of this theory is on analysing the socio economic conditions that are displayed in a character, and it thereby evaluates the power dynamics that exist across different groups. The application of this theory is highly effective in understanding Walt Whitman’s poem in a better way.