This essay is a critical comparative analysis of two texts in the middle section of the course: Edwidge Danticat’s memoir Brother, I’m Dying, Louis-Philippe Dalembert’s The Other Side of the Sea, and Erzulie’s Skirt, by Ana-Maurine Lara. Select two of those texts to discuss.
The essay must have a thesis or controlling idea, to guide the discussion and give the essay a clear purpose. I am interested in what you think, not in a summary of the plot or a description of the characters. Your ideas and opinions are crucial for a strong essay. Do not twist your ideas just to come up with a thesis; instead, let your thoughts guide you to a strong central argument.
Note that for a comparative paper, the two texts do not have to match: differences on your chosen topic may be more interesting and more significant than parallels. They can also lead to a strong, original argument on your topic. You may decide to give more space to one text, which is fine—again, let your ideas guide you as you develop an argument.
Whatever topic you select, be sure that it is focused enough to allow you to go into depth in your discussion. Also, be sure that you show a careful reading of each text in its entirety.
You will need textual support to back up your main points: quote directly from the text, and cite the page number(s) in parentheses after each quotation. Explain why that passage is significant for the point you are making—include your analysis.
You will need works cited information at the end of the essay. If you do not know how to do this correctly, ask me or see a style manual.
Please note: I am not asking you to look at secondary sources for this essay, as I am most interested in seeing you develop your own ideas. If you do decide to look at an outside source and incorporate it into your discussion, you must also cite that source. Not doing so constitutes plagiarism, which is a major offense. You will receive an “F” in this course if you plagiarize in a formal essay, and doing so can also result in your expulsion from the University.