Question

Each of the following writing prompts requires a different type of writing. Which writing prompt requires a literary analysis?

A.
Read the short story “The Open Boat” by Stephen Crane. When you have finished reading, write a summary of the story. Your summary should be two to three paragraphs long.
B.
Read the Greek myth “Perseus and Medusa.” Pay close attention to the characters and look for clues to their special traits. Then, write a short story, retelling the myth from Medusa’s point of view.
C.
Read the excerpt from Hospital Sketches. Then, write a four- to five-paragraph paper, identifying the author’s intended effect on the reader and explaining ways in which the author recreates her experience during the Civil War.
D.
Read the passage from The Story of My Life by Helen Keller. Then, write a diary entry from the point of view of Helen or Helen's parents based on the passage. Remember to write from the point of view of your chosen character.

Answer 1

Writing prompt C, which asks for an essay identifying the author's intended effect and ways they recreate their Civil War experience, requires a literary analysis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The writing prompt that requires literary analysis is:

C. Read the excerpt from Hospital Sketches. Then, write a four- to five-paragraph paper, identifying the author’s intended effect on the reader and explaining ways in which the author recreates her experience during the Civil War.

Literary analysis involves examining various elements of a piece of literature, including the author's form and organization, tone, stylistic choices such as diction and figurative language, historical or social context, themes, character development, and the relationship between setting and other narrative elements. This prompt specifically asks for an analysis of the author's intent and the methods used to achieve this, which aligns with the requirements of a literary analysis essay.