Essay Topics

Essays should be typed in 12 pt standard font, double spaced and use parenthetical references.  

1. A theme is a central idea that unifies an entire literary work.  A motif is a recurring object, concept, or structure.  In a literary analysis essay, use a motif in American Wings; Iranian Roots to discuss a theme.
2. The moral structure of a character includes his or her dedication to certain core values.  Moral structure can be examined by a character’s interaction with other characters, actions, dialogue, and (if applicable) inner thoughts.  In a literary analysis essay, discuss the moral structure of a major character in American Wings; Iranian Roots.
3. *In a literary analysis essay, examine three significant moments/conflicts in the life of a character in American Wings; Iranian Roots. Discuss how each moment/conflict contributes to character or thematic development.
4. Throughout American Wings; Iranian Roots Reza wrestles with a variety of internal and external conflicts.  Compare and contrast the internal and external conflicts he wrestles and he responds to those conflicts.
5. The socio-political climate in Iran during the time frame of the story has a tremendous impact.  In a comparison-contrast essay, explore the Iranian society under the rule of The Shah, under Ayatollah Khomeini and the effect(s) on one or more characters in the story.
6. *In a comparison-contrast essay, analyze the change in the relationship of either Reza and Soraya, Reza and Ardeshir or Reza and Hassan.  Compare and contrast the dynamics of the relationship at the three significant moments.
7. Examine the laws imposed by Ayatollah Khomeini or the reforms of the Shah’s government.  In an expository essay explain the ideologies reflected in the laws/reforms, the effect on the population, and the impact in the Middle East.
8. In an expository essay, examine the root causes of the 1979 Iranian Revolution.  Consider analysis through the comparison of other revolutions, the history of the region and the role of religion.
9. *In an expository essay, examine the role of Mr. Mehdian, Farid and Kahn as it relates to disseminating historical facts to both Reza and the reader.
10. To stereotype is to judge a person or a group of people based on generalities often framed in prejudice rather than facts.  In a persuasive essay, using examples from American Wings; Iranian Roots and other sources, develop an argument supporting or refuting the value of studying multi-cultural literature in an educational setting.
11. The American ideology of the separation of church and state is a topic of continual discussion, redefinition and debate.  In a persuasive essay, using examples from American Wings; Iranian Roots and other sources, development an argument supporting or refuting the value of the separation of church and state.
12. *In a persuasive essay, choose a significant character and develop an argument that he or she reflected three specific heroic qualities more so than any other character in the story.

Against the dramatic landscape of world altering events, Reza’s heroric journey unfolds.

Curriculum