Write a 300 to 500 word essay
In an essay of 300 to 500 words, analyze the language of each text—figurative as well as literal—and evaluate the ways in which it signals the historical and cultural surroundings of the author. Cite specific evidence from the texts to support your analysis. Adhere to conventional rules for the placement and format of your citations. Organize your essay clearly, and follow the rules of English grammar and punctuation. Be sure your paper is double spaced and uses a standard size 12 font.
You can use the following thesis statement and outline for your essay.
Thesis Statement: The stories "The Walrus and the Carpenter" by Lewis Carroll and "The Cop and the Anthem" by O. Henry were written during exciting times in history, and their writings were influenced by the changes happening around them. Lewis Carroll's story reflects the exciting advancements in Victorian England, while O. Henry's tale captures the fast-paced growth of New York City in the early 1900s.
The language used in a text can often provide valuable insight into the historical and cultural surroundings of the author. This can be seen in the stories "The Walrus and the Carpenter" by Lewis Carroll and "The Cop and the Anthem" by O. Henry. Both of these stories were written during exciting times in history, and the language used in each reflects the changes and advancements happening around them.
In "The Walrus and the Carpenter," Carroll uses both figurative and literal language to convey the historical and cultural surroundings of Victorian England. The story itself is a whimsical tale of a walrus and a carpenter who deceive a group of oysters. The language used by Carroll is highly imaginative and fantastical, reflecting the optimism and excitement of the Victorian era. He describes the walrus as "a massive bulk, lying near the sea," using vivid and descriptive language to paint a picture of this larger-than-life character. This larger-than-life quality reflects the grandeur and extravagance of the Victorian era, with its opulent buildings and grandiose events.
Carroll also uses figurative language throughout the story, adding to its whimsical tone. He describes the oysters as "four young oysters, all in a row," using alliteration to create a playful and musical rhythm. This alliteration adds to the lightheartedness of the story, further reflecting the spirit of the times. Additionally, Carroll's use of repetition in lines such as "The time has come" and "To talk of many things" adds a unique and memorable quality to the story, demonstrating his mastery of language and wordplay.
In "The Cop and the Anthem," O. Henry's language reflects the fast-paced growth and hustle and bustle of New York City in the early 1900s. The story follows a homeless man named Soapy who tries to get arrested so he can spend the winter in jail. O. Henry's language is direct and to the point, mirroring the no-nonsense attitude of the city. He describes Soapy as "a man who, though no saint, can at least claim the dignity of a sinner," using concise and powerful language to convey Soapy's character. This straightforwardness reflects the straightforward and often harsh realities of life in the city.
O. Henry also uses figurative language in the story to add depth and richness to the narrative. He describes the city as "the greatest street in the world," using hyperbole to emphasize the grandeur and importance of New York City. This hyperbolic language reflects the awe and admiration that many felt for the city during this time of rapid growth and development. Additionally, O. Henry's use of vivid and descriptive language when describing Soapy's attempts to get arrested, such as "nerved himself to the proper pitch" and "put in one hard metalline caress," adds to the suspense and excitement of the story.
In conclusion, the language used in both "The Walrus and the Carpenter" and "The Cop and the Anthem" can be analyzed to gain insight into the historical and cultural surroundings of the authors. Lewis Carroll's use of imaginative and whimsical language reflects the exciting advancements in Victorian England, while O. Henry's direct and descriptive language captures the fast-paced growth of New York City in the early 1900s. Through their use of language, both authors convey the unique spirit and atmosphere of their respective time periods.