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ENGL 1100: Literary Interpretation

What are you interested in?

Find a unique approach to your literary topic.

Before you start researching, decide on an particular angle. This helps you stay focused and organized.   

Ideas to consider include:

literary theories

schools of thought

idea

theme

style

imagery

tone

particular philosophy
historical events

the author’s life

medical diagnoses

geography  

critical orientations

plot

genre conventions 

setting

narration

point of view

characterization

symbolism

metaphor

irony/ambiguity

historical context

social, political, economic contexts

ideologies

ecocriticism 

It can be helpful to consult a subject specific dictionary or encyclopedia. 

Your question

Your research question

Be sure it fits the assignment!

  • Does it fit the parameters of the paper?
  • Is it manageable? Do I have time?
  • Is it realistic? 
  • Do I know exactly what questions I am asking? 

Find inspiration!

Shop around to see what else might be out there. 

Gale Literary Topic Finder lets you browse your topic visually. It then displays related article to the right. 

topic finder image of tiles for edith wharton and accompanying articles