English 201
English Composition 2
Spring 2002
Professor David A. Salomon (davidsalomon@bhsu.edu)
Essay #3

Choose ONE and only one of the following questions. Answer it in a complete and thoughtful essay. Your essay should be a well-developed, clear, logical and complete idea developed from a definite thesis statement. Use the text in all instances to support your answer, but do not merely summarize plot. Refer to specifics in the text. Your paper should be 4-6 pages in length.

Essays must be either typed on a typewriter or printed from a computer. This paper is due on Wednesday, April 17. Papers handed in late will receive a one grade deduction for each day/class late. I will be happy to look at drafts. In fact, I encourage you to come in with a draft and/or send e-mail with questions. If you have been doing poorly on essays, I urge you to visit my office with a draft well before the due date.

When you submit this paper, also submit the paper on a floppy disk (the paper should be the only file on the disk). The paper must be saved in either .doc or .rtf format. Clearly mark the disk with your name on it. Disks will be returned with papers.

Make sure you download the "Paper Checklist" on the class’ home page. Complete it and staple it to the front of your paper.

Read the questions carefully. Support all answers with examples from the text, but do not merely summarize plot–analyze!

1) The central theme throughout Beattie’s stories (at least those in this collection) concerns relationships, particularly as described from the female perspective. Choose three stories in The Burning House with which to conduct a discussion of relationships in Beattie’s stories. To what general conclusion can you come regarding the nature of relationships in the three stories you have selected?

2) Discuss the importance of hands (in "Learning to Fall") and feet (in "Girl Talk"). What do feet and hands represent, and why and how are they used in these two stories?

3) Write an analysis of "The Burning House," and discuss the themes in that story as they reflect the themes in the collection as a whole. Your analysis of the story itself should include discussion of theme, character, and symbolism but should avoid plot summary. Then discuss why and how the ideas in "The Burning House" reflect the ideas in The Burning House. Why do you think Beattie chose that story to title the entire collection?