Research portfolio
How does the idea of the monster / supernatural evolve throughout the time periods and works we’ve studied this year?
Coolidge
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Blake Williams
The chimney sweeper
Shelly
Frankenstein
Lord Byron: Meter and Stanzas
Wordsworth
I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud
The research is organized into 3 main points, with at least 2 different sources for each main point.
Citations
All facts, statistics, and quotes are followed by an in-text citation in proper MLA format.
Works Cited Page
Voice
All writing is in 3rd person, with no references to the essay.
A Minimum of Five Paragraphs (Intro, 3 Body Paragraphs, Conclusion) with at least five sentences in each paragraph.
The concept of the monster and supernatural has evolved throughout the various time periods and works we have studied this year. In Coolidge's work, the idea of the monster is often depicted as a symbol of fear and terror, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the time period. In "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the supernatural is portrayed as a force of nature that punishes those who disrupt the balance of the natural world. This reflects the Romantic belief in the power of nature and the consequences of human interference.
In Blake Williams' "The Chimney Sweeper," the idea of the monster is portrayed as the oppressive forces of society that exploit and harm the innocent. The supernatural is depicted as a source of hope and redemption for the young chimney sweepers, highlighting the theme of innocence and corruption in society. This reflects the social commentary prevalent in the Romantic era, as writers sought to expose the injustices and inequalities of the time.
In Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," the concept of the monster is taken to a new level, as Victor Frankenstein's creation becomes a complex and tragic figure. The supernatural element in this work is intertwined with themes of ambition, morality, and responsibility, challenging the traditional notions of good and evil. This reflects the evolving understanding of the monster as more than just a physical entity, but as a reflection of the inner turmoil and moral dilemmas of humanity.
Lord Byron's exploration of meter and stanzas in his poetry also contributes to the evolution of the monster and supernatural in literature. By experimenting with different forms and structures, Byron was able to create a sense of heightened emotion and drama in his works, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. This showcases how the supernatural can be used as a tool for exploring complex themes and emotions in literature.
In Wordsworth's "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud," the idea of the supernatural is portrayed as a source of beauty and inspiration, offering solace to the wandering speaker. The natural world is presented as a mystical realm that connects the speaker to a sense of wonder and awe, highlighting the transformative power of nature. This reflects the Romantic belief in the transcendent and spiritual qualities of the natural world, showcasing how the supernatural can be a source of comfort and enlightenment in times of despair.
Overall, the idea of the monster and supernatural has evolved throughout the different works and time periods we have studied this year. From symbols of fear and oppression to complex figures of morality and redemption, the monster and supernatural have been used to explore a wide range of themes and emotions in literature. As writers continue to push the boundaries of imagination and creativity, the concept of the monster and supernatural will continue to evolve and challenge our perceptions of good and evil, reality and fantasy.