Mrs. Murray
English IV
Quest Literature Literary Analysis
Writing Prompt: After reading several examples of quest literature, you need to write a four
(4) to six (6) page literary comparison of the novel with another story that we reviewed in class.
In your thesis statement, answer the following question:
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How do quests help provide the reader with insight into human nature?
The following elements should also be included in your literary comparison:
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You should have an introduction paragraph that introduces your topic of discussion,
contains a thesis statement, and highlights the main points you plan to discuss.
Near the beginning of your paper, explain to your audience what a quest is according to
our class discussion and Thomas C. Foster’s article “Every Trip Is a Quest (Except When
It’s Not)”.
Choose one of the literary works below and compare and contrast how two characters,
one from one of the texts below and one from your literature circles novel, undergo a
quest that reveals a common message about human nature.
o “Her First Elk” by Rick Bass
o “A&P” by John Updike
o “Clothes” by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
o Beowulf by the Beowulf Poet
o “The Wife of Bath’s Tale” by Geoffrey Chaucer
o “The Pardoner’s Tale” by Geoffrey Chaucer
o “Federigo’s Falcon” by Boccaccio
Come up with a clear thesis focused on the theme, or message, about a particular aspect
of human nature and use this to focus your analysis of the two quests.
Use one of the critical perspectives to develop your analysis of each story.
When making your comparison, work on presenting a structured criticism that is clear
and concise. Focus each paragraph on a clear idea that helps support your thesis, and
completely analyze elements from one text before you shift your focus to the other.
You must include at least three quotes from each piece of literature. The quotes can be
no longer than 3 lines on Microsoft Word. Make sure you utilize parenthetical
references and have a works cited page.
Remember, focus on how the quests reveal insights into human nature. Don’t give a
summary of the texts, but highlight the quest elements in the texts that reveal a
particular theme about human nature.
Finally, have a conclusion that revisits the thesis statement and main points. Leave the
reader with something that is impressionable.
First Draft Due-12/15/14
Final Draft Due- 12/18/14