Directions: Write a formal essay based on the outline in the section below. Ensure that the essay:

Contains five paragraphs;
Addresses three of the course texts to support the argumentation;
Follows proper essay structure;

Contains an effective introduction and conclusion paragraph;

Is written in formal writing;
Includes quotations that are properly cited as per MLA;

Includes a Works Cited at the end of the essay; 

Is evident of editing and revision as per proper English language conventions. 

 

 

Paragraph 1: Introduction (Introduction of topic and thesis statement): 

In this essay, I will analyze the role of identity in Margaret Atwood's "The Moment" and three other literary works: "Once More to the Lake," "Secret Path," "The Lonely Death of Chanie Wenjack," and "Carlos Can't Remember." Through these texts, we can see that identity is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses both personal and cultural aspects. The exploration of identity in these works reveals the importance of understanding one's heritage and connection to place, as well as the impact of societal expectations and historical trauma on individual identity.

 

Paragraph 2: (Point 1 with explanation, supporting details/examples from texts):

In "The Moment," Atwood explores the concept of personal identity through the speaker's realization that they do not truly own anything. The speaker reflects on their possessions, from their house to their country, and comes to understand that they were merely a visitor passing through. This realization highlights the importance of understanding one's place in the world and recognizing that everything is connected. Similarly, in "Once More to the Lake," Alfred Bingham reflects on his childhood memories of a lake in Ontario, Canada. As an adult, Bingham returns to the lake and realizes that it has changed significantly over time. This experience prompts Bingham to reflect on his own identity, as he recognizes that his memories are not necessarily a true reflection of reality. In both cases, the speakers come to understand that their personal identity is shaped by their relationship with the world around them.

 

Paragraph 3: (Point 1 with explanation, supporting details/examples from texts): 

In addition to personal identity, these texts also explore cultural identity. In "Secret Path," Gord Downie tells the story of Chanie Wenjack, a young Indigenous boy who died while attempting to escape from a residential school. Through this story, Downie highlights the impact of colonialism on Indigenous culture and identity. The residential school system forcibly removed Indigenous children from their families and communities, with the goal of assimilating them into Western culture. This experience had a profound impact on Indigenous identity, as many children lost touch with their heritage and culture. In "Carlos Can't Remember," Carlos Fuentes explores his own cultural identity as a Mexican writer living in exile in Spain. Fuentes reflects on his own heritage and culture, recognizing both its beauty and its flaws. He also acknowledges the impact of historical trauma on Mexican identity, as he reflects on the country's history of political instability and violence. In both cases, the speakers come to understand that their cultural identity is shaped by their relationship with their community and history.

 

Paragraph 4: (Point 3 with explanation, supporting details/examples from texts):

Another theme that emerges from these texts is historical trauma. In "The Lonely Death of Chanie Wenjack," Downie highlights the impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities through his retelling of Chanie Wenjack's story. The residential school system was part of a larger colonial project aimed at erasing Indigenous culture and replacing it with Western values. This experience had a profound impact on Indigenous communities, leading to intergenerational trauma and cultural loss. Similarly, in "Carlos Can't Remember," Fuentes reflects on Mexico's history of political instability and violence, recognizing its impact on Mexican identity. Fuentes acknowledges both the beauty and flaws of Mexican culture, recognizing that historical trauma has left its mark on Mexican society. In both cases, the speakers come to understand that their cultural identity is shaped by both positive and negative experiences from history.

 

Paragraph 5: Conclusion (restatement of thesis and conclusion of essay):

In conclusion, through the exploration of identity in Margaret Atwood's "The Moment" and three other literary works - "Once More to the Lake," "Secret Path," and "Carlos Can't Remember" - we can see that identity is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses both personal and cultural aspects. These texts highlight the importance of understanding one's heritage and connection to place, as well as the impact of societal expectations and historical trauma on individual identity. 

By recognizing these factors, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society that values all forms of identity. Understanding personal and cultural identities can lead to greater empathy for others who may have different experiences or perspectives than our own. It can also help us recognize our own privilege or disadvantage based on our identities, which can lead us to work towards greater social justice for all individuals regardless of their identities or backgrounds.

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Identity is a multifaceted concept encompassing personal experiences cultural heritage and societal influences Through the examination of Margaret Atwoods The Moment alongside other literary works suc... View the full answer