TOPICS IN AMERICAN CULTURE:
ASIAN AMERICAN CULTURE
David Goldstein-Shirley,
Ph.D.
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Book Analysis Assignment
Select one extended literary work (fiction, drama, autobiography, collection of short stories, or other type of text to be approved by the instructor) by an Asian American writer that treats a subject related to Asian American experiences. Be sure your selection is by an Asian American as opposed to someone living in Asia. Some of the entries at the end of the Charlie Chan Is Dead textbook would be appropriate. See me if none of those appeals to you, if you have your own idea, or if you want me to suggest a specific kind of work (e.g., a particular literary genre or Asian American ethnic group).
Read the entire work at least once and then write an analysis (not just a summary) including but not limited to such issues as the following (in any order):
- What is the work about? Which experiences, of the infinite number of experiences in the lives of Asian Americans, did the writer choose to portray? What seems to be the author's attitude or sensibility?
- Which Asian American subcultures are portrayed?
- What did the work contribute to your understanding of that subculture, of Asian American culture as a whole, and American culture as a whole?
- What issues does the work raise (e.g., search for identity, inter-generational struggle, racism)?
- How, artistically, does the writer portray these experiences (e.g., chronological narrative, use of mythology, symbolic and figurative language, use of historical events and persons)?
Your analysis should constitute a formal essay (sharp thesis supported throughout the essay with specific evidence). Your typed (standard typeface and margins, black ink on white paper) essay is due at the beginning of class on Wednesday, May 13 and should run about five double-spaced, stapled pages (no fewer than four; no more than six). Late papers will be accepted only until the beginning of class on Monday, May 18, and will be docked five points.
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Completeness (responds appropriately to the assignment) |
15 pts. |
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Depth of response (quality of detail and support; sophistication of ideas and argument) |
25 pts. |
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Quality of writing (organization; spelling, grammar, diction, punctuation) |
5 pts. |
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45 pts. |
Because of the size of the class, I cannot read rough drafts of papers, but I would be happy to discuss ideas with you before you submit your paper. Please understand that I cannot allow re-writes; rather, I will help make your paper as good as it can be before you submit it. I therefore encourage you to begin early. Visit the consultants in the Writing Center!
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