Question

Choose one of the elements of literature, listed below. In the space below, write an essay of at least 500 words comparing and contrasting a literary element in "Sixteen" by Maureen Daly and "Through the Tunnel" by Doris Lessing.

Elements of Literature

tone, theme, setting, character, plot, point of View, conflict

When you have finished proofreading your essay, submit it to one of your peers for peer review. Make sure you use the rubric in order to complete your evaluation.

Answer 1

I would choose the literary element of theme.

In the story "Sixteen," we meet a girl who knows a lot about the world of teenagers. She is sixteen, and although she is experienced, she is still only beginning to learn how relationships work in the adult world. When she thinks that a boy is going to call her but then he does not, she is able to reach her own conclusions and decide how she will operate in the relationship world.

The main theme is the transition between childhood and adulthood. The girl in the text needs to learn how to be an adult, even though she is only sixteen. This is a difficult period for all people, as it is a period of change.

Similarly, the protagonist of "Through the Tunnel" experiences a period of change as he goes from childhood to adulthood. In this story, the boy wants to prove to other boys that he can be as talented and as brave as everyone else. He does not want to be left behind in his development. Therefore, both stories share the themes of growing up and of fitting in among your peers.

Answer 2

The tone used in "Sixteen" and "Through the tunnel", is about someone that tries to prove something to somebody else.

The theme used in both novels, is the eager to prove their worth to someone but for "Sixteen" is the need to prove herself to the reader and on the other hand in "Through the tunnel", the character is trying to prove himself to another boys.

The setting is about overcoming the adversity, individualism and finding their true potential.

Both characters try to impress somebody else and grow in the process.

The plot on both stories is about finding courage, the motivation to move forward.

In both novels the point of view we can see it as a "first person" type.

The conflict is trying to stand up and make themselves note and be appreciated by others.