Research Portfolio
How does the idea of the monster / supernatural evolve throughout the time periods and works we’ve studied this year
Introductory Paragraph:
a sentence or two - general, interesting statement about the topic
Connecting Sentence(s) - could be background information about your topic
the argument you are making about your topic
3 MAIN POINTS
Supporting Paragraph 1:
Transition Word
Main Point #1
1st Piece of Evidence
Explanation of Evidence in your own words (how does it support your thesis?)
2nd Piece of Evidence (needs to be from a different source than 1st piece of evidence)
Explanation of Evidence in your own words (how does it support your thesis?)
Supporting Paragraph 2:
Transition Word
Main Point #2
1st Piece of Evidence
Explanation of Evidence in your own words (how does it support your thesis?)
2nd Piece of Evidence (needs to be from a different source than 1st piece of evidence)
Explanation of Evidence in your own words (how does it support your thesis?)
Supporting Paragraph 3:
Transition Word
Main Point #3
1st Piece of Evidence
Explanation of Evidence in your own words (how does it support your thesis?)
2nd Piece of Evidence (needs to be from a different source than 1st piece of evidence)
Explanation of Evidence in your own words (how does it support your thesis?)
Conclusion:
Transition Word + Restate your thesis:
Summarize Your 3 Main Points
Connect Everything to the BIG PICTURE - Why does it matter? What lesson can be learned?
The tyger
The lamb
The chimney sweeper
Coolridge samuel taylor
The rime of ancient mariner
Kubla khan the rime of the ancient mariner
Frankenstein
5 work cite pages MLA format
followed by 5 in-text citation in proper MLA format
Introduction: The concept of monsters and the supernatural has evolved over time in literature, shifting from traditional monstrous creatures to more complex and nuanced representations. Through the works we have studied this year, we can see how this evolution has taken place.
Supporting Paragraph 1:
Transition Word: Firstly,
Main Point #1: In William Blake's "The Tyger" and "The Lamb," we see the traditional idea of monsters as fearsome creatures being challenged.
1st Piece of Evidence: In "The Tyger," the speaker questions the creator of the tiger, wondering what kind of being could create such a powerful and terrifying creature.
Explanation of Evidence: This challenges the traditional view of monsters as simply evil beings, showing a more complex understanding of creation and existence.
2nd Piece of Evidence: In "The Lamb," Blake presents a contrasting view with the gentle and innocent lamb, challenging the binary of good and evil.
Explanation of Evidence: This further complicates the idea of monsters as purely malicious creatures, showing that beauty and innocence can also be seen as supernatural.
Supporting Paragraph 2:
Transition Word: Furthermore,
Main Point #2: In Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," we see a shift towards a more psychological understanding of the supernatural.
1st Piece of Evidence: The albatross serves as a supernatural symbol in the poem, representing guilt and the consequences of the mariner's actions.
Explanation of Evidence: This goes beyond the traditional monstrous creature to explore the inner workings of the human mind and the effects of our choices.
2nd Piece of Evidence: The ghostly ship that appears in the poem embodies the idea of karma and redemption, adding layers of complexity to the supernatural elements.
Explanation of Evidence: This reflects a more nuanced understanding of monsters as not just external threats, but also internal struggles and moral consequences.
Supporting Paragraph 3:
Transition Word: Lastly,
Main Point #3: Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" takes the evolution of the monster even further, exploring themes of isolation, identity, and empathy.
1st Piece of Evidence: The monster in the novel is not inherently evil, but becomes monstrous due to his experiences of rejection and loneliness.
Explanation of Evidence: This challenges traditional notions of monsters as purely malicious beings, showing that external circumstances can play a role in creating monsters.
2nd Piece of Evidence: The emotional complexity of the monster, his desire for companionship and understanding, adds a layer of empathy to the character.
Explanation of Evidence: This highlights the shift towards more complex and humanized portrayals of monsters, pushing readers to question their assumptions about what it means to be monstrous.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the evolution of the monster and supernatural in literature reflects a deeper exploration of human nature, morality, and empathy. By challenging traditional notions of monsters as simply evil beings, these works invite readers to reconsider their understanding of the supernatural and the complexities of good and evil. It is through these nuanced portrayals that we can learn valuable lessons about empathy, acceptance, and the complexities of the human experience.