ENG1517 ASSIGNMENT 2
[COMPLETE ANSWERS] SEMESTER
2 2024
1. Literary Analysis
Question: Analyze the use of symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird." How does the author use
symbols to enhance the themes of the novel?
Answer: In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Harper Lee uses various symbols to deepen the novel's
themes. The mockingbird, for instance, represents innocence and the idea of doing no harm.
Characters like Atticus Finch and Tom Robinson symbolize the mockingbird, as they embody
moral integrity and are wrongfully harmed by society. This symbolism highlights themes of racial
injustice and moral growth.
2. Comparative Analysis
Question: Compare and contrast the themes of love and ambition in Shakespeare's "Macbeth"
and Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."
Answer: In "Macbeth," love and ambition are intertwined with destructive consequences.
Macbeth's ambition drives him to murder and tyranny, impacting his relationship with Lady
Macbeth and leading to their downfall. Conversely, in "Pride and Prejudice," love is portrayed as
a virtue that can overcome social barriers. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's love evolves from
initial misunderstandings to mutual respect, ultimately leading to a positive resolution. The
contrast lies in how ambition leads to tragedy in "Macbeth" while love leads to personal growth
and happiness in "Pride and Prejudice."
3. Character Analysis
Question: Discuss the development of the protagonist in "The Great Gatsby." How does
Gatsby's background influence his character and actions throughout the novel?
Answer: Jay Gatsby's background significantly influences his character. Born into poverty,
Gatsby reinvents himself to achieve wealth and social status, driven by his desire to win back
Daisy Buchanan. His mysterious past and obsessive pursuit of the American Dream shape his
actions and relationships. Gatsby’s character is marked by a sense of idealism and
disillusionment, ultimately leading to his tragic end. His background highlights the themes of
social mobility and the corruption of the American Dream.
4. Essay Writing
Question: Write a persuasive essay on the importance of literary education in understanding
cultural and historical contexts.
[COMPLETE ANSWERS] SEMESTER
2 2024
1. Literary Analysis
Question: Analyze the use of symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird." How does the author use
symbols to enhance the themes of the novel?
Answer: In "To Kill a Mockingbird," Harper Lee uses various symbols to deepen the novel's
themes. The mockingbird, for instance, represents innocence and the idea of doing no harm.
Characters like Atticus Finch and Tom Robinson symbolize the mockingbird, as they embody
moral integrity and are wrongfully harmed by society. This symbolism highlights themes of racial
injustice and moral growth.
2. Comparative Analysis
Question: Compare and contrast the themes of love and ambition in Shakespeare's "Macbeth"
and Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."
Answer: In "Macbeth," love and ambition are intertwined with destructive consequences.
Macbeth's ambition drives him to murder and tyranny, impacting his relationship with Lady
Macbeth and leading to their downfall. Conversely, in "Pride and Prejudice," love is portrayed as
a virtue that can overcome social barriers. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's love evolves from
initial misunderstandings to mutual respect, ultimately leading to a positive resolution. The
contrast lies in how ambition leads to tragedy in "Macbeth" while love leads to personal growth
and happiness in "Pride and Prejudice."
3. Character Analysis
Question: Discuss the development of the protagonist in "The Great Gatsby." How does
Gatsby's background influence his character and actions throughout the novel?
Answer: Jay Gatsby's background significantly influences his character. Born into poverty,
Gatsby reinvents himself to achieve wealth and social status, driven by his desire to win back
Daisy Buchanan. His mysterious past and obsessive pursuit of the American Dream shape his
actions and relationships. Gatsby’s character is marked by a sense of idealism and
disillusionment, ultimately leading to his tragic end. His background highlights the themes of
social mobility and the corruption of the American Dream.
4. Essay Writing
Question: Write a persuasive essay on the importance of literary education in understanding
cultural and historical contexts.
