Marxism in Wright’s “The Man Who Was Almost a Man”
***** Read Richards Wrights “The Man Who Was Almost a Man” then write a Literary Analysis Essay exploring the ways in which the techniques of subversion employed by a character are amplified by reading the story through a specific lens. (In this case through Marxism) *****Your essay must have an arguable thesis, and you must use quotes from one reading on the syllabus. In addition, cite (paraphrase) 4 secondary sources from the library databases. This essay will require deep thought and reflection; since, it is highly suggested that you start early and use your notes from class. Do not summarize, argue!
Remember that a technique is a specific way of carrying out a task. It is not a summary of the story.
You must research and make sure that you understand whichever literary lens you choose. There is a lot of information in the library databases and in books. Make sure that your sources are creditable. Make sure that your paper includes a counterargument paragraph.
Requirements:
- Write in 3rd person narration ONLY! This is an analytical essay. Your paper should have a thesis (i.e. an overall point).
- This paper must have a minimum of 5-6 full pages (not including Works Cited)and 4 secondary sources. All papers must include a correctly formatted Works Cited page.
- Mrs. McGilbrey does not grade papers that do not meet the page count requirements. Papers lacking a Works Cited will automatically lose 25 points because of unintentional plagiarism.
- Your paper should have a clear thesis (i.e. an overall point).
- Use quotes to support your argument and cite any outside material that you use. Lead into quotes and use transition words, phrases, and statements.
- All papers should be grammatically correct. Major grammatical errors will affect your overall grade.
- Mrs. McGilbrey deducts a lot if your evidence is weak, and if you do not explain its relevance.
Format: MLA (use your handbook or Purdue Owl MLA); Double-Space, point 12, Times New Roman Font, 1-inch margins.
Answer preview
Marxism in Wright’s “The Man Who Was Almost a Man”
The main characters involved in ‘The Man Who Was Almost a Man’ include Dave Sanders, Mr. & Mrs. Saunders, Fat Joe, Jim Hawkins, and Jenny. Richard Wright’s story focuses on the main character, Dave Sanders who faces a difficult time identifying himself as a man. Dave, even though a hard-working young man, remains seen as a boy by his environment (Wright 5). The story by Wright begins in one evening when Dave walks back home full of thoughts on the best manner that he can prove his manhood to his society. Dave ends up deciding that he ought to visit Fat Joe to observe some of the guns in his catalog so that he could purchase one (Wright 1). Dave believes that the weapon represents manhood and power. In Dave\s mind, the gun ought to provide him with a stable ground for respect and fair treatment in the community. However, Fat Joe tells Dave that he, “ain’t nothing but a boy,” where Dave promises to get the two dollars, which is the price of the gun, from her mother for the purchase.
Dave works for Jim Hawkins…
(2700 words)