ASSIGNMENT
Use this source only: https://uerjundergradslit.files.wordpress.com/2020/09/the-norton-anthology-of-american-literature-9th-edition-volumes-a-b
Read Pages 1511-1568
1. Respond to the prompt below in 250 words:
I. There are three main theories concerning Melville’s Benito Cereno. They are, in chronological order:
i. The Moral Theory – this theory avoids any discussion of race in favor of an investigation into the novella’s moral (God vs Devil) elements.
ii. The Abolitionist Theory – assumes that the novella is an indictment of slavery.
iii. The Interpretation Theory – while acknowledging the historical context for the story, this theory sidelines political motifs in favor of a focus on the novella as about reading and writing.
II. Choose one of these three interpretative tracks to create your essay. As you read, look for direct evidence that seems to fit with your chosen theory.
i. Write a short paragraph (2-3 sentences) explaining why you chose that theory.
ii. Find and cite a passage from Benito Cereno that you think addresses your theory.
iii. Perform a close reading (no more than 200 words) on that passage. That means that you paraphrase the passage in your own words, then you explain why you think that passage is important.
Finally, draw a conclusion about Benito Cereno’s themes. What is it saying about “evil,” “slavery,” “ambiguity,” “reading and writing,” “the Gothic” or whichever best fits your chosen theory.
Bonus: Connect some facet of Benito Cereno to “The Fall of the House of Usher” (pages 629-642). You can compare or contrast, be specific and include interesting connections.
