“She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me; I am in no humor at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men. You had better return to your partner and enjoy her smiles, for you are wasting your time with me.” (Mr. Darcy to Mr. Bingley about Elizabeth Bennet; Ch. 3) A perfect portrayal of ego and pride… Pride and Prejudice – the name speaks volumes about the classic novel – the title and theme of your thesis…. Don’t have time to read the whole novel again? Here is what you should do… Your choice of title for your literature based dissertations is outstanding, I must say. There are so many aspects of this novel that you can discuss in your extended essay. I am suggesting a few questions for your study and research: • What is significant about the title? • What are the main conflicts you noticed in this novel? • How does Jane Austin portray her characters? • What is the theme of the story and how does it relate to its plot? • How did Jane Austen develop the character of Elizabeth Bennet, and what is so consistent about her? • What were your expectations of the novel’s endings? • What is the purpose of the novel? Is it meaningful? Your extended essay can contain an individual chapter on every aspect of the novel. Some chapters are suggested below: Chapter # 1: The Plot and the Characters This chapter can contain the plot of the novel which mainly revolves around the situation of the Bennet family.
You can also give the descriptions of the main characters of the novel and
the parts they play throughout. You should also contain your personal feelings towards each character. Chapter # 2: The Critics The novel did not only earn praise, but also some criticism. The criticism was mainly about the title of Pride and Prejudice. Explain the critics’ views of the novel and tell the reader why the critic might have had this point of view. Give your personal opinion about the criticism, whether you think the criticism was justified or not. Chapter # 3: The Publication History and Reception The title of the novel was changed by Jane Austen from ‘First Impression’ to ‘Pride and Prejudice’. Explain why Jane Austen might have done this, and why was it necessary at that time. You can also acknowledge the readers by telling them Jane’s inspiration for the title. Discuss the publication history of the novel in detail telling the reader when the first copy of the novel was published, and how did the audience receive it. The novel got a well reception, and received three reviews in the month of the publication. Chapter # 4: Transformation The novel was later on converted into various other media. Films were produced on the story, and the theme was adapted by many other writers. It became an inspiration to many writers and film producers. The theme of your extended essay will be one of the best English literature dissertation ideas. With perfect construction of words and thoughts, your extended essay can take the form of a book to be published later. It can boost your career in the field.
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by Donna Santos
