Coursework starter essay

Identify a coursework essay question focus for 'The History Boys'. Write about 300 words in response to this focus and hand it in by Tuesday 5 February. Make sure that you have an argument but don't worry if there is more than one argument or that it drifts. You will be advised on how to structure an essay from this preliminary attempt.

The History Boys

How is the comedy created in Act One of 'The History Boys'? Think about possible essay questions and shape your comments around them. You could consider the serious issues in the play and how characters and themes are developed to explore them. Post your comments on your blog by Tuesday 29 January.

Gatsby type (b) questions

Choose one of the following Section A type b questions, answer it and hand it in on Tuesday 22 January:

1. How far do you agree with Nick’s view that Gatsby is “worth the whole damn bunch put together”?

2. Some readers are irritated with Nick as a narrator. What is your view of Fitzgerald’s use of Nick Carroway as a narrator?

 

3. How do you respond to the view that it is very difficult for readers to feel anything other than contempt for Tom Buchanan?

4. How appropriate do you think it is to describe ‘The Great Gatsby’ as a tragedy?

 

5. What do you think about the view that there are no women in ‘The Great Gatsby’ with whom the reader can sympathise?

6. What do you think of the view that obsession with money and consumer culture dominates thinking and behaviour in ‘The Great Gatsby’?

7. “Illusory as it is, Gatsby’s dream gives meaning and value to human experience.” How do you respond to this view?

Gatsby questions

Write about how the story is told in a chapter of your choice from 'The Great Gatsby'. To be handed in on Tuesday 15 January.