Literature and Cinema
Meghan Gilbride states that “The film is an examination of the very construction of the historical narrative.” In the light of this statement, write a comparative essay about the role of history (The historical background in the graphic memoir) in film adaptations of two literary texts:
- Dalloway: WWI
- Persepolis: Revolution in Iran
You are focusing on how history is presented in the films. So you are analyzing each film adaptation first, and then comparing and contrasting the two films in terms of their representation of history..
Essay Guidelines
Format:
The essay should be submitted in WORD format via Turnitin).
The essay should be in the range of 1500 words (UG).
Approach:
The analysis should be based on a comparison between two texts and their film adaptations discussed in the course. The analysis should follow a literary approach where the comparison involves a discussion of both similarities and differences between the selected works.
Structure: (N.B. Check the Guide to Writing Comparative Essays attached.)
The essay should be structured around a central idea, theme, or argument. The analysis should be done through literary elements. Every statement requires textual evidence.
The analysis can take a vertical or horizontal shape:
either divide the essay along the texts/authors, where you analyse each of the texts separately in a couple of paragraphs, followed by a conclusion that brings them together;
or divide the essay along aspects/elements, where you analyse a certain point comparatively in one section of the essay, then move on to the next point in another section; followed by a conclusion that brings all the threads together.
The general evaluation involves the following:
1) the clarity of the main idea/argument.
2) a comprehensive introduction that addresses the essay topic and includes an accurate thesis statement.
3) the analysis (explanation of the main ideas/concepts/aspects relevant to the texts)
4) the use of evidence (critical sources relevant to the analysis, but most importantly textual evidence from the primary sources)
5) the structure of an academic essay: the organisation of the essay along an introduction, analysis, and conclusion; with smooth transitions and a logical flow of ideas.
6) the smooth integration of sources and quotations.
7) the accurate use of relevant sources and citations. (MLA Citation System.)
8) the correct use of language and the coherence and cohesion of style.
