Short Literature set writing task- 'The Last Leaf'
Students will write a literary analysis that demonstrates their understanding of the selected text, focusing on themes, character analysis, and the use of literary devices.
Group 1
Instructions:
- Read the Text: Read the short story "The Last Leaf."
- Craft a Thesis Statement: Develop a clear thesis statement that presents your interpretation of the main theme or message of the text.
- Writing Requirements:
- Introduction: Introduce the text and provide background information. End with your thesis statement.
- Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your analysis:
- Character Analysis: Discuss the main characters. What are their motivations? How do they contribute to the overall theme?
- Theme Exploration: Identify and analyze at least two major themes. Use specific evidence from the text to support your claims.
- Literary Devices: Examine the author's use of literary devices (e.g., symbolism, imagery, metaphor). How do these devices enhance the reader’s understanding of the text?
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in a new way. Reflect on the significance of the text within a broader literary context.
"The Last Leaf" In a small artists' colony in Greenwich Village, two young women, Sue and Johnsy, live together. Johnsy falls seriously ill with pneumonia and becomes despondent, believing she will die when the last leaf falls from a nearby vine. Despite Sue's attempts to cheer her up, Johnsy remains fixated on the leaves.
One night, an elderly artist named Behrman, who has always dreamed of painting a masterpiece, learns of Johnsy's condition. Inspired by her plight, he decides to help her regain her will to live. During a stormy night, Behrman goes outside and, despite his age and poor health, paints a perfect leaf on the wall where the vine grows.
The next morning, Johnsy awakens to find the last leaf still clinging to the vine, and she feels a renewed sense of hope. She eventually recovers, but it is revealed that Behrman caught pneumonia himself while painting the leaf and died shortly after. His act of selflessness becomes his masterpiece, saving Johnsy's life.
Question 1a
Write a literary analysis of 'The Last Leaf' focusing on themes, character analysis, and the use of literary devices.
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