Violence & Freedom
Many of the texts on our syllabus contain scenes of graphic and often abrupt and brutal violence. The prevalence
and frequency of these scenes beg consideration of the function of violence in the American literary tradition.
Observing the requirements outlined above, write an essay in which you explore the relationship
between violence and freedom in the American literary context. Do these scenes of violence problematize idealistic
notions of freedom? Do some writers conflate freedom with violence, and if so, why? It may be useful to distinguish
between different kinds of violence (i.e. racial, sexual, legislative, etc.) to help support your argument
-essay should articulate an identifiable thesis statement, which you should support with detailed analyses of each
of your primary texts.
-the texts are The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, Kindred by Octavia Butler and The Negro Speaks of
Rivers by Langston Hughes
-please reference to scenes in the texts and analyze thoroughly
– this is an english american literature essay
-underline thesis