Theme of Resurrection in A Tale of Two Cities

 For this final paper please analyze a theme (not necessarily military, if you don’t want it to be) in one of our last four texts (A Tale of Two Cities, HMS Pinafore, Doctor Wortle’s School, or any of Doyle’s works we read). Beyond pointing out the theme, make sure you make an argument about how the text presents and supports this theme, and what it means in a larger sense. You will need to use five outside sources to back up your argument, cited in-text when quoted or paraphrased as well as in a works cited page.

Please make sure to format the paper in MLA style. If it is under 1500 words (not including header, title, or works cited page), then your grade will have the percentage out of 1500 deducted. So a paper that is 1350 words will lost 10%.

How to Handle Theme of Resurrection in A Tale of Two Cities Thematic Analysis Paper

Here’s how to handle the final paper analyzing a theme in one of the assigned texts:

Choosing a Text and Theme:

1. Select a Text: Review the four texts you’ve read recently: A Tale of Two Cities, HMS Pinafore, Doctor Wortle’s School, and any of Doyle’s works.
2. Identify Themes: Reflect on the central ideas and recurring messages within your chosen text.
   • Consider themes like love and loss, social justice, the pursuit of knowledge, or the nature of good and evil.

Developing Your Argument:

1. Focus on a Single Theme: Pick one prominent theme from your chosen text for in-depth analysis.
2. Craft an Argument: Formulate a thesis statement that expresses your argument about how the text presents and supports this theme.
   • Example: “A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens explores the theme of redemption through sacrifice, showcasing how characters like Sydney Carton find meaning through selflessness despite societal struggles.”

Supporting Your Argument:

1. Textual Evidence: Gather specific examples from the text that illustrate how the chosen theme is presented.
   • Use quotes, plot points, character development, or symbolism to support your claims.
2. Outside Sources: Research five credible academic sources like scholarly articles, literary criticism, or historical analyses.
   • These sources should offer insights, interpretations, or context relevant to your chosen theme and text.
   • Use in-text citations (author, year) to acknowledge the sources when quoting or paraphrasing.

Writing and Formatting:

1. Structure: Organize your paper logically:
   • Introduction: Briefly introduce the text and theme, state your thesis statement.
   • Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one aspect of your argument, supported by textual evidence and analysis.
   • Integrate outside sources smoothly, explaining their relevance to your claims.
   • Conclusion: Summarize your key points and reiterate the significance of the theme within a larger context.
2. Formatting: Use MLA style for formatting your paper, including double-spacing, 12-point font, one-inch margins, and a separate Works Cited page listing all your sources in alphabetical order by the author’s last name.

Word Count:

• Aim for a minimum of 1500 words (excluding header, title, and Works Cited page) to avoid deductions in your grade.