Analytical Essay Prompts: Latin American Novels
As practice for the AP Literature exam, write a timed essay about your Latin American novel that explores an
advanced concept of literature supported by textual evidence.
Read over the prompts and select one that fits the writing style or themes explored in the novel you read. You
may take some time to think about the prompt and brainstorm, but do not research your response.
When you’re ready to write, copy down the prompt at the top of a sheet of paper, then set a timer for 40
minutes and craft your response. Yep – it’s the HONOR SYSTEM.
Prompt options:
 Some of the most successful works of magical realism question Western rationality and “interrogate a
social reality dictated by racism and patriarchy” (Wilson). Analyze the use of magical realism in your
novel. Is it a device of subversion, a means of escapism, or just a reflection of a rich and colorful
culture?

How is the novel a reflection of the culture in which it is written? Choose one aspect of Latin American
culture or history (i.e. colonization, a stark division of socioeconomic classes, Catholicism, mixture of
races, industrialization, oppression of indigenous peoples) and trace the impact of this cultural aspect in
your novel.

It has often been said that what we value can be determined only by what we sacrifice. Consider how
this statement applies to a character from a novel or play. Select a character that has deliberately
sacrificed, surrendered, or forfeited something in a way that highlights that character’s values. Then
write a well-organized essay in which you analyze how the particular sacrifice illuminates the
character’s values and provides a deeper understanding of the meaning of the work as a whole.

“And, after all, our surroundings influence our lives and characters as much as fate, destiny or any
supernatural agency.” Pauline Hopkins, Contending Forces Choose a novel or play in which cultural,
physical, or geographical surroundings shape psychological or moral traits in a character. Then write a
well-organized essay in which you analyze how surroundings affect this character and illuminate the
meaning of the work as a whole.

One of the strongest human drives seems to be a desire for power. Write an essay in which you discuss
how a character in a novel or a drama struggles to free himself or herself from the power of others or
seeks to gain power over others. Be sure to demonstrate in your essay how the author uses this power
struggle to enhance the meaning of the work.

Create your own prompt based on a symbol or motif that is connected to one of the themes of your
novel. Consider this template: How is_________________ symbolic of the idea that _______________?
If you select this option, write your prompt in the space below:
Regardless of the topic you select, assessment will focus on the following:







An effective thesis statement focused on method and meaning.
Clear topic sentences which support the thesis and are elaborated by carefully-chosen text support
Wide-ranging vocabulary used with denotative accuracy and connotative resourcefulness
A variety of sentence structures, including appropriate use of dependent/independent clauses
A logical organization, enhanced by specific techniques of coherence such as transition, elaboration, and
emphasis
A balance of generalization with specific illustrative detail (carefully selected direct quotations!)
An effective use of rhetoric, including controlling tone and consistent voice