LITERARY ANALYSIS

LITERARY ANALYSIS (INDIVIDUAL)

1. A literary analysis is, in essence, an essay that delves deeper into a work of literature; examining and evaluating the various plot twists, character traits, events and setting in hopes of gaining a better insight into the message the author intended to deliver.
2. Although you are expected to carry out a thorough analysis of the selected works, you may choose one specific areas to be discussed.
3. Some ideas to get you started:
   1. The novel Salina by A. Samad Said is said to be the microcosm of Singaporean society at the time it was written.
   2. Foreshadowing elements in Rome and Juliet that lead to the tragic end.
   3. The portrayal of the American Dream through The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald.
4. The length of the analysis must be not less than 2000 words each, typed (font Times New Roman, size 12, double-spacing).

5. Literary analysis 1 (20%): DUE DATE: 26 MARCH 2020 (WEEK 7)
   1. Students are required to analyse ONE literary text that is not used in the course.
   2. It could be one of your favourite novels or plays – it could be old literature or modern literature.
   3. The length of your chosen novel/play must not be less than 100 pages, written either in Malay or English.
   4. Compilation of poems, like those by Hafiz, Rumi, Edgar Allan Poe, T.S. Elliot, or Shakespeare’s Sonnets, are also acceptable for this assignment. (Note: compilation of modern contemporary poems, like those by Lang Leav is not acceptable)
   5. Before you start your analysis, the selected literary work MUST BE APPROVED BY DR. K

6. Literary analysis 2 (20%): DUE DATE: 21 MAY 2020 (WEEK 14)

Students are required to analyse ONE of the literary texts used in this course:

1. Frankenstein; or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley
2. Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
3. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
4. Beloved by Toni Morrison
5. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
6. An Area of Darkness by V.S Naipaul
7. The Sinking of the van der Wijck by Hamka
8. Salina by A. Samad Said
9. Arabian Nights by Husain Haddawy and Muhsin Mahdi (http://read.gov/books/pageturner/2003juv28132/#page/2/mode/2up)

7. Tips for extra marks:
   1. Excellent comparison to today’s situation (wherever relevant).
   2. Relevant citations from related academic studies (published journal papers).
   3. Deep understanding of the issues discussed, and make connection to one’s life (self-reflection).
8. Resources:
   1. https://www.aresearchguide.com/write-literary-analysis.html
   2. https://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/macbeth/how-to-write-literary-analysis/

SCRIPT WRITING 20% (GROUP WORK) DUE DATE: 26 MARCH 2020 (WEEK 7)

1. In groups, students are required to write a script for a drama of about 30 minutes in length.
2. The group must consist of a maximum of THREE (3) students, or a minimum of TWO (2) students. No more than 3 students, not less than 2 students.
3. The script must be based on one of the literary texts used in the course, but not merely adaptation of the texts in form of a script – the script’s storyline could be a response to the selected text, or a parody/satire, or an adaptation of Islamic and/or Malaysian values, or a realistic adaption into today’s time.
4. The script must show the application of literary elements, interesting plots, compelling characters, sustained/aroused interests, relevant intro-conflict-resolution storyline, and able to make reader/audience feel connected to the story/plots.
5. The best script will be used for the Drama/Play assignment.
6. Tips:
   1. The story must not be boring and predictable.
   2. The plots must not be too complicated that leads to confusion.
   3. The themes must be consistent and shown throughout the script/play.
7. Resources:
   1. https://www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom/writers-lab/scriptwriting-essentials
   2. https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-dramatic-screenplay#aristotles-6-elements-of-drama
   3. https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/drama/

DRAMA/PLAY 40% (WHOLE CLASS ASSIGNMENT): DUE DATE: 14 MAY 2020 (Week 13)

1. Using the selected best drama script, the students are required to participate and act in the play.
2. Selected script will be announced on 5 April 2020 (Week 8), and students are expected to start working on the production straightaway.
3. The play is to be recorded and will be screened during KLM Drama Night (Date TBD) at the end of the semester.
4. The group must elect a Director, Costume Manager, Stage Manager, Audio/Electric Supervisor, etc. and decide who will act the characters in the play.
5. Every student is expected to get involved actively, be it on screen or off screen.
6. The assignment will be divided into:
   1. Participation (20%)
   2. Peer assessment (5%)
   3. Audience score (5%)
   4. Reflection Writing (10%)
7. During the screening of the play, the audience will score the play, and the mark will be based average score.
8. After the screening of the play, each student is to write an essay of more than 1000 words reflecting on the production process, and what they have learnt from the process.
9. At the end of Week 14, every student will assess each other, and the average score will contribute for the 5% of the peer assessment.
10. Resources:
    1. https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2012/nov/28/how-to-act-acting-tips
    2. http://www.bbbpress.com/2016/02/putting-on-a-show-10-steps-to-lay-groundwork-for-a-successful-production/