The first formal writing assignment of the year will be a literary analysis of Shakespeare’s Othello. You can choose one of the following three topics to write about:

1.) Explore the the use of imagery in Othello. How does Shakespeare use vivid imagery to provide richness to the drama?

2.) Examine Shakespeare’s use of dramatic irony in Othello. How does the dramatic irony shape the reader’s perceptions of the characters and the action?

3.) Analyze the use of foreshadowing in Othello? How does Shakespeare manipulate the readers expectations with the use of foreshadowing?

A rough draft will be due Thursday, October 4th (worth twenty points).
The final draft will be due on Tuesday, October 9th (worth 100 points).

The following rubric will be used to evaluate your essay:

• Depth of Analysis will evaluate the quality of your insight into the author’s use of the literary technique.
• Textual Evidence will evaluate the strength of the direct quotes that you use from the text to support your point.
• Organization will evaluate your ability to present your arguement in a clear and cogent manner.
• Mechanics will evaluate the proper use of spelling, grammar, and sentence structure.
• Vocabulary will evaluate your ability to use three (3) words from our vocabulary list in the essay.
  

Final Drafts not turned in on time will be assessed a ten point penalty per class period that they are late. Final Drafts will not be accepted for credit after five class periods. Rough Drafts will only be accepted for credit on the day they are due. Final drafts must be typed. Papers must be ready to be turned in at the beginning of class. Please note: technologocial mishaps (crashed computers, lost files, jammed printers, etc.) do not constitute a valid excuse for papers being turned in late.