Beloved Essay Assignment
Length: 3-4 pages, double-spaced
Due to turnitin.com by OCTOBER 8 by 11:59 p.m. Bring in a typed physical copy of your essay on
OCTOBER 9.
Choose one of the following:
A) CHARACTER PAIR: Choose any two characters in the novel and analyze their relationship. What brings
them together—either literally, as part of the plot, or figuratively, through a symbolic parallel? How does
Morrison develop the dynamics of their interactions, or the meaningful connections between them, over
the course of the story? How does their pairing contribute to the novel’s overall structure or significance?
B) SUPPORTING CHARACTER: Although Morrison centers her story on the present-day family at 124
(Sethe, Denver, Paul D, and Beloved), we also encounter a large cast of supporting characters. Choose any
one of these supporting characters and discuss how that character contributes to the novel’s overall
development. What is his/her role or significance in the story? How does s/he add to or enhance our
understanding of the text as a whole, the literary symbolism within the text, or the four main
protagonists?
C) TAKE A STAND: Select one character and take a stand on his or her “guilt” or “innocence.” For example,
is Sethe guilty or innocent, especially after committing her act of infanticide? Is Paul D. guilty or innocent,
especially in relation to Sethe, Baby Suggs, and possibly Halle? How about Stamp Paid? Beloved? The
people of the community?
D) ANALYZE A THEME: Argue for the novel’s treatment of one of the following: Love, Motherhood,
Freedom, Memory, History, Selfhood, Slavery, Stories, Womanhood, Loneliness, Pride, Ownership,
Masculinity, Religion, Family.
Your essay should be centered on a clear and opinion based thesis. Avoid plot summary. In arguing your
point, be sure to include specific references to the text as examples, including citations and a Works Cited
page. You are welcome to support your ideas with outside resources that should also be included in your
Works Cited.