Eng 1120 Unit 1 Essay Worksheet Fall 22
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Central New Mexico Community College *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
1120
Subject
English
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by CoachIbis4030
Re-visit the story you will write your essay about, and on a blank page, write a while about the basic plot (what happened), the topic (what is it about), and that very important central idea/theme (what does it mean?). There is not a single correct answer for the theme; however, you should be able to support that universal, underlying message from the author with evidence from the story relevant to setting and symbolism. You might find the theme by completing this sentence: The writer’s overarching message in this story is _Gail Godwin. "A Sorrowful Woman." 1971._ as shown through setting and symbolism. Then begin filling out the worksheet below, as you gather ideas and support. This will help you organize your first essay.
Eng 1120 Unit 1 Essay Prewrite/Brainstorm Sheet
Intro: Hook
(make me care): _ Gail Godwin weaves a narrative that whispers of quiet desperation and societal expectations, inviting readers to peer into the shadows of a woman's soul as she grapples with the weight of her existence. __
Basic story info
: Include “Title” (Pub yr) by author’s full name plus helpful info to orient your reader (summary/setting/conflict): _ In "A Sorrowful Woman" (1971) by Gail Godwin, we find ourselves immersed in a seemingly ordinary family's life. Set in an undefined time and place, the story introduces us to a wife, husband, and child, unfolding a narrative that transcends its surface simplicity. The wife, burdened by societal expectations, faces an internal struggle that leads to an unexpected and sorrowful outcome._
Begin the conversation about the issue/significance
of the theme: _ The core issue that "A Sorrowful Woman" addresses
is the oppressive nature of societal norms and gender roles, especially for women. Through the lens of the protagonist's emotional turmoil, the story delves into the profound impact of conforming to societal expectations on one's identity and well-being. __ Lead to your thesis*
(marry the central idea to setting and symbolism) __ The author's clear message in this story is the suffocating weight of societal expectations on individuals, particularly women. *Your thesis
is your claim—what your essay will prove. This formula might help: The author’s clear message in this story is _
Gail Godwin effectively communicates this message through the carefully crafted elements of setting and symbolism_, which she proves through setting and symbolism. Body Paragraphs:
Topic Sentence
(short, direct statement that names setting as your keyword):
__ The setting in "A Sorrowful Woman" plays a pivotal role in shaping the protagonist's emotional landscape. The confined domestic space becomes a metaphor for the woman's entrapment in societal norms, as evidenced by the lines,
"shades drawn down" and the stifling routine of her life. __
Development
of setting support (build your case with evidence, quotes (at least two), and details from the story): _ The story's description of the closedoff room and the woman's withdrawal into isolation underscores of the impact of societal expectations. The dull tasks, like baking pies and roasting a turkey, become oppressive, highlighting the emotional strain of conforming to traditional roles. The setting, with its symbolic details, intensifies the theme of the suffocating nature of societal norms
Wrap up
your body paragraph with a sentence that ties setting to the theme.
The confined setting becomes a silent witness to the woman's struggle, vividly illustrating the toll that societal expectations take on her emotional wellbeing.
Topic Sentence
(short, direct statement that names symbolism as your keyword):
_ Symbolism in "A Sorrowful Woman" enhances the depth of the narrative, offering insights into the protagonist's internal turmoil. Notably, the closed room and the woman's detachment from daily activities symbolize her increasing emotional distance. _
Development
of symbolism support (build your case with evidence, quotes (at least two), and details from the story):
_ The room, described as having "shades drawn down," serves as a literary symbol representing the woman's internal struggles. It becomes a physical manifestation of her emotional isolation and withdrawal from societal expectations. This
symbolism reinforces the theme of the emotional toll of conforming to predefined roles.__ Wrap up
your body paragraph with a sentence that ties symbolism to the theme. Through these symbols, Godwin magnifies the profound impact of societal expectations, shedding light on the internal battles faced by individuals when conformity becomes unbearable.
Finish strong! Use your conclusion
to remind your reader of your theme/thesis/claim. Yes, you can re-state your thesis. But go beyond the obvious to the significance
of your discovery. Why does this theme matter? __ In conclusion, "A Sorrowful Woman" peels back the layers of societal expectations, revealing the emotional cost of conforming to traditional roles. Through the lens of setting and symbolism, Gail Godwin masterfully communicates the suffocating weight these expectations impose on individuals, particularly women. This theme transcends the story, prompting reflection on the broader implications of societal norms on personal well-being and identity._
Add Source Info
at the end (see Announcements). No formal Works Cited needed for Unit 1 essay, as your only source is the story. Gail Godwin. "A Sorrowful Woman." 1971.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help