Othello writing assignment

Othello Essay Assignment

Directions: Choose one of the essay topics below and write a well-developed essay that incorporates support from the text. Use basic essay format (introduction with thesis(claim) statement, body paragraphs with topic sentences, conclusion).

Paper parameters:

• 2-4 pages (500 word minimum)
• Times New Roman
• 12 point font
• Double space
• Parenthetical citations (MLA format)

SUPPORT FROM THE TEXT: In your body paragraphs, you must include at least ONE QUOTE from the text that illustrates the point you are making in that paragraph. After each quote, you should explain how it supports the point you are making. A paragraph should never end with a quote. Failure to include the quotes from the text will result in a maximum of half credit for the assignment (25 points out of 50). 

We will spend the next few days in class working on the writing process: prewriting, drafting, editing and revising, and publishing.

DEADLINES:

Prewrite due: ______________________________________ (by the end of class)

Draft due: _________________________________________ (beginning of class)

Editing and Revising day: ____________________________

Final paper due:______________________________(beginning of class)

Essay Topics:

1.

Othello is the only black character in Shakespeare. Throughout the play, there are several references to black and white as contrasts: “Black ram and white ewe” (Act I, scene 1); “Your son-in-law is far more fair than black” (Act I, scene 3); “Her name … is now begrimed and black/As mine own face” (Act III, scene 3). Although they are not always in reference to race, analyze whether or not each of these lines are derogatory to Othello.

2.

In Othello, we see the kind of jealousy that is envy of what others have, and the kind that is fear of losing what we have. Write a comparison/contrast essay in which you analyze these themes. Cite specific examples of characters and events in the play that show both themes.

3.

Iago is a clear example of the idea that the difference between reputation and honor is the difference between appearance and reality. He has a good reputation but no true honor. Analyze three examples of how Iago tries to appear one way when in reality he is hiding the truth. Ultimately, what does this say about his honor?

4.

The handkerchief is an important symbol in the play. Analyze the handkerchief in terms of its importance to Othello, Desdemona, and Iago.

5.

In a Shakespearean tragedy, characters die who do not deserve their unfortunate fates. Choose three characters who die innocently and analyze how each one’s blindness to the truth leads to his or her death.

Othello Essay Rubric:

Criterion Exceeds Expectations Meets Expectations Below Expectations Content (10 points) Specific, illustrative development of ideas throughout essay that thoroughly analyze the topic Some ideas are developed throughout the essay; evident attempt at analysis but lacking detail Little evidence of development of ideas; lack of thorough analysis of the topic Textual Support (15 points) Specific, illustrative quotes from the text that enhance and support the writer’s points; all quotes are explained and thoroughly analyzed General quotes from the text are included; evidence of attempted analysis; lack of thorough support Few or no quotes are included or quotes do not support the writer’s points; little or noexplanation or analysis of quotes Focus (5 points) All details are relevant to the essay topic and thoroughly support/ explain the writer’s points Most details are relevant to essay topic and generally support/ explain the writer’s points Many details are not relevant to the essay topic; off topic details detract from the writer’s points Organization (10 points) Paragraphs are logically organized; distinct introduction, thesis statement, and conclusion; details within paragraphs flow smoothly Errors in logical organization of paragraphs and/or details within paragraphs; some evidence of paragraph breaks and essay format Significant errors in logical organization of paragraphs and/or details within paragraphs; lack of paragraph breaks and essay format Conventions of Language (grammar) & Writing Style (10 points) Evident control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation;descriptive, illustrative vocabulary and word choice Sufficient control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation;ordinary word choice and vocabulary Minimal control of grammar, mechanics, spelling, usage, and sentence formation;poorly used vocabulary and word choice