Final Research Paper
English 1C: Critical Thinking and Composition
Essay #5 Final Research Paper
Overview: In Salvador Plascencia’s The People of Paper (2005), the reader is introduced to not only the harrowing story of father and daughter as they cross the U.S. Mexico border for better opportunities, but a mosaic of characters and stories entrenched in a world of magical realism. Thus, the novel gives substantial opportunities and avenues for the engagement of critical thought and analysis.
For our final essay, you will use your critical thinking intellectual apparatus and everything we have learned is on the table to utilize (rhetorical analysis, various claims, inductive/deductive reasoning, fallacies) and create a final research paper using Plascencia’s The People of Paper as your primary source. All of our critical thinking strategies are not required, but as a critical scholar, determine what is best for you and the assignment in creating a sound research paper.
Writing Prompt:
Utilizing multiple critical approaches learned in this course, create a unique critical claim (or set of claims) based on a thorough understanding of The People of Paper and at least three credible secondary sources.
While discussion and peer collaboration can sharpen your understanding of the novel, having a unique critical claim backed by substantial and valid textual support, will produce a sharper final product.
The essay should be at least 6-7 pages, have proper MLA citation, proper formatting and a complete Works Cited page.
Possible avenues to explore (these are not exclusive):
The use and effect of Magical Realism
Systemic Oppression
The power of Myth and Culture (Religion)
Cultural Assimilation and Integration
Poverty and Community
Metafiction
Worker’s Rights/ Capitalism
Women Empowerment
Misogyny and Toxic Masculinity
Use of Narration
“Traditional” Novel and Storytelling
Keep in mind, some of these will intersect.
