identify a symbol/image from Miguel Barnet Biography of a Runaway Slave and consider how it represents the “history, culture and perspective” of the culture that the text seeks to represent.
The applicant can select any symbol/image from the text, for example: an object, a scene, a character or event. The symbol/image can be central to the text or a seemingly minor aspect where meaning is derived.
Specifically, the essay should examine how the author represents and demonstrates value for that particular culture. The essay should consider how the symbol/image relates to the broader representation of this culture, using specific examples from the text. Finally, the essay should establish how this symbol/image can serve as a lens to help readers meaningfully connect to that culture.
Applicants should consider several methods to approach assignment:
Describe the symbol/image in detail and examine the language used to describe this symbol/image
Define the value of the symbol/image to the characters in the book
Compare how the symbol/image is represented in the text and the broader culture (local/national news, books, film/televisions shows, newspaper)
Find examples of how this symbol/image occurs in the text and the broader culture
Consider what questions the use of this symbol/image imposes on the reader
Reflect how this symbol/image might impact the understanding of this culture
Explain how this symbol/image creates or complicates the observers empathy and/or serves to humanize the participants in that particular culture
Length: 1000 words
Format: MLA