James Lasdun Final Essay: It’s Beginning to Hurt
In your first paragraph, your introduction, write an extended definition of the chimera and its connection to the Dionysian force in humankind. Then contrast that with metacognition and its connection to Apollonian force in human consciousness. This paragraph must show a clear understanding of extended definition.
In your second paragraph, your thesis paragraph, write a thesis that supports, defends, or complicates the assertion that in James Lasdun’s short stories the characters’ demise is the result of a juggernaut-like chimera obliterating their powers of metacognition. Follow your thesis with supporting paragraphs, including two paragraphs that show counterargument and rebuttal as modeled after the Toulmin argument. You must refer to no fewer than three of the assigned stories from Lasdun’s collection.
Your conclusion should be a restatement of your thesis in more powerful rhetorical form. You should end your paper with an MLA Works Cited page with a minimum of three credible sources. A week before your research paper is due, you will need to turn in an annotated bibliography with 5 sources (even though you don’t have to use all 5 sources, just 3).
Some Arguments Against the Above Thesis
The chimera is not necessarily a destructive agent. It can bring purpose to our lives.
We need Dionysian outlets to restore and rejuvenate our tired psyches.
By placing too much emphasize on chimeras, we paint people as victims rather than holding them morally responsible for their actions.
One. "The Half Sister"
Two. "The Natural Order"
Three. "An Anxious Man"
Four. "The Incalculable Life Gesture"
Five. "Peter Kahn's Third Wife" and "It's Beginning to Hurt"
Six. "Cleanness" and "Caterpillars"
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