The main characters in The Tin Flute and the most arresting character from among them

                                                                           

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

8. Who are the main characters in The Tin Flute? Who emerges as the most arresting character from among these?

The Tin Flute is a novel by Canadian author Gabrielle Roy, published in 1945. It tells the story of a working-class family in Montreal during the Great Depression. The novel focuses on the lives of the members of the Lacasse family, their struggles to survive, and their dreams for a better future. 

The main characters in the novel are Florentine, the mother; Azarius, the father; their children, Rose-Anna, Florentine, Jean-Marie, and Emmanuel; and their neighbours, including the Gagnon family, Mr. and Mrs. Desrochers, and others. Each of these characters has their own unique personality, strengths, and weaknesses. However, it is Rose-Anna, the eldest daughter, who emerges as the most arresting character in the novel.

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A critical assessment of “A Mother in India

                                                                          

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

7. Attempt a critical assessment of “A Mother in India”.

"A Mother in India" is a short story by the Canadian author, Katherine Mansfield. The story is known for its poignant and heartbreaking portrayal of the protagonist, a mother who discovers a devastating secret about her son's life. This essay will provide a critical assessment of the story, focusing on its themes, characterization, and symbolism. 

One of the central themes of the story is the tension between tradition and modernity. The mother is initially excited about her son's return from England, where he has been studying. She is proud of his accomplishments and excited to see how he has changed. However, as the story progresses, she begins to realize that her son has changed in ways that she cannot accept. He has rejected the traditional values and customs of their culture, and his behavior is considered scandalous and immoral by the community. The story explores the mother's

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Ways is The English Patient a modernist novel

                                                                         

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

6. In what ways is The English Patient a modernist novel? Discuss it.

Michael Ondaatje's novel "The English Patient" is often considered a modernist novel due to its unconventional narrative structure, themes of fragmentation and identity, and its use of experimental language and imagery. In this essay, we will explore these elements and how they contribute to the novel's modernist sensibility. 

One of the most notable features of the novel is its fragmented narrative structure. The story is told through multiple perspectives and timelines, and the reader must piece together the events of the novel through a non-linear and non-chronological narrative. This fragmentation reflects the modernist rejection of traditional narrative structures and linear storytelling. The novel also employs a stream-of-consciousness narrative style, which emphasizes the inner thoughts and perceptions of the characters and further contributes to the fragmented nature of the novel.

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Gabrielle Roy very realistically presents the lives of the people of Quebec in her novel The Tin Flute. Discuss it with examples from the novel.

                                                                        

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

5. Gabrielle Roy very realistically presents the lives of the people of Quebec in her novel The Tin Flute. Discuss it with examples from the novel.

Gabrielle Roy's novel "The Tin Flute" is a realistic portrayal of the lives of working-class families in Quebec during the Great Depression. The novel highlights the struggles of the impoverished Lacasse family and their neighbors, and the obstacles they face in their daily lives. Roy's vivid descriptions and attention to detail create a rich and vivid world that reflects the realities of Quebec society at the time. 

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is the sense of despair and hopelessness that pervades the characters' lives. The Lacasse family, in particular, is constantly struggling to make ends meet and to provide for their children. For example, when Rose-Anna Lacasse discovers she is pregnant with....

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A detailed note on the main character of the novel Surfacing

                                                                       

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

4. Write a detailed note on the main character of the novel Surfacing.

The novel "Surfacing" by Canadian author Margaret Atwood features a protagonist who is never named but is referred to as the "narrator" or "she". The novel is a first-person narrative, and the narrator is the central character around whom the story revolves. In this essay, we will explore the character of the narrator and her significance in the novel. 

The narrator is a young woman who has returned to her childhood home in rural Quebec with her boyfriend and a couple of friends. Her father disappeared from the area some years before, and she has come back to search for him. The narrator is a complex character who is struggling to come to terms with her past and her present. She is haunted by memories of her childhood and her parents' troubled relationship, and she is deeply ambivalent about her own identity and her place in the world.

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A detailed note on the genre of the Canadian long poem

                                                                      

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

3. Write a detailed note on the genre of the Canadian long poem.

The Canadian long poem is a genre of poetry that emerged in Canada in the mid-20th century. It is characterized by its length, its epic scope, and its engagement with Canadian themes and landscapes. In this essay, we will examine the genre of the Canadian long poem, its origins, and its significance in Canadian literature. 

The Canadian long poem emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, at a time when Canadian writers were beginning to assert their own identity and challenge the dominance of British and American literary traditions. The long poem was seen as a way for Canadian writers to explore the vastness and diversity of the Canadian landscape, to engage with Canadian history and culture, and to create a distinctively Canadian literary tradition.

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A detailed note on the contributions of Atwood and Ondaatje to recent Canadian poetry

                                                                     

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

2. Write a detailed note on the contributions of Atwood and Ondaatje to recent Canadian poetry.

Margaret Atwood and Michael Ondaatje are two of the most celebrated contemporary Canadian poets. Their contributions to Canadian poetry have been significant, as they have both explored a range of themes and forms, from the personal to the political, from traditional to experimental. In this essay, we will examine the contributions of Atwood and Ondaatje to recent Canadian poetry. 

Margaret Atwood is perhaps best known as a novelist, but she has also made significant contributions to Canadian poetry. Atwood's poetry is characterized by its clear, concise language and its exploration of themes such as feminism, ecology, and politics. Her early work, such as The Circle Game (1966) and The Animals in That Country (1968), was marked by a sense of nostalgia for the past and a concern for the environment. In her later work, such as The Journals of Susanna Moodie (1970) and Power Politics (1971), she focused more explicitly on politics and gender, exploring issues such as power dynamics, social justice, and the struggle for equality.

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Major concerns that dominate 20th century Canadian Literature

                                                                    

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-12)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-12 

1. What are some major concerns that dominate 20th century Canadian Literature? Give a reasoned answer.

Canadian Literature of the 20th century was marked by several key concerns, which revolved around issues of identity, culture, and language. These themes emerged as a result of the country's colonial history, its relationship with its southern neighbor, and its multicultural makeup. In this essay, we will explore some of the major concerns that dominated Canadian Literature in the 20th century and their significance. 

One of the most significant concerns of Canadian Literature in the 20th century was the exploration of identity. Canadian writers struggled with the question of what it meant to be Canadian, given the country's history of colonialism and its status as a multicultural society. In particular, they were concerned with defining a Canadian identity that was distinct from that of the United States, which had a dominant cultural influence on Canada. This concern can be seen in the works of Margaret Atwood, Alice Munro, and Robertson Davies, among others.

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The major themes and characters of the novel The Catcher in the Rye

                                                                   

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-11)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-11 

5. What are the major themes and characters of the novel The Catcher in the Rye.

"The Catcher in the Rye" is a novel written by J.D. Salinger and published in 1951. The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows the experiences of Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy who has been expelled from his prep school and is struggling to find his place in the world. 

Themes: 

Alienation and Loneliness - Holden Caulfield is a character who feels alienated from the rest of society and struggles to form meaningful connections with others. This sense of alienation and loneliness is a major theme throughout the novel.

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Theme, plot, narrative techniques and style of the novel Black Spring

                                                                  

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-11)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-11 

4. Discuss theme, plot, narrative techniques and style of the novel Black Spring.

"Black Spring" is a novel written by the Mexican author, Octavio Paz. The novel tells the story of the fictional town of San Rafael, located in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. The novel is divided into three sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of life in the town. 

Theme: The novel's central theme is the tension between tradition and modernity. The town of San Rafael is depicted as a place that is struggling to reconcile its traditional values and customs with the rapidly changing world around it. The novel also explores the themes of love, death, and the human experience.

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A critical analysis of the novel Light in August

                                                                 

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-11)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-11 

3. Attempt a critical analysis of the novel Light in August.

William Faulkner's novel "Light in August" is a complex and multi-layered work that explores themes of race, identity, and morality in the American South. The novel is set in the fictional Yoknapatawpha County and follows several characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. 

One of the central characters of the novel is Joe Christmas, a young man who is unsure of his racial identity and struggles to find a sense of belonging in the world. As a child, Joe was abandoned by his mother and raised in an orphanage run by white people. He later discovers that he has a black grandfather, which leads him to reject his white identity and embrace a life of crime and violence.

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The common themes in the novels of Theodore Dreiser

                                                                

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-11)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-11 

2. Discuss the common themes in the novels of Theodore Dreiser. Answer with suitable examples.

Theodore Dreiser was an American novelist and journalist who is known for his works that explore the darker side of human nature and the struggles of the working class. His novels often deal with themes of social inequality, individualism, and the corrupting influence of wealth and power. Some of the common themes found in his works are: 

Ambition and success: Dreiser's novels often depict characters who are driven by ambition and the desire for success. However, the pursuit of success can lead to moral compromise and ethical dilemmas. In his novel "An American Tragedy," the protagonist Clyde Griffiths desires to rise up the social ladder, but his ambition ultimately leads to his downfall.

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The background and qualities of Romanticism as reflected in 19th Century American novel

                                                               

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-11)

AMERICAN NOVEL

ASSIGNMENT 

(For July, 2022 and January, 2023 Session)

Course Code: MEG-11 

1. Discuss the background and qualities of Romanticism as reflected in 19th Century American novel.

Romanticism was an artistic and intellectual movement that originated in Europe in the late 18th century and spread to America in the 19th century. It was a reaction against the rationalism and scientific thinking of the Enlightenment and emphasized emotions, imagination, and individualism. Romanticism also placed a high value on nature, the past, and the supernatural. 

In American literature, Romanticism was reflected in the novels of the 19th century, which were characterized by a focus on emotion, imagination, and individualism. Some of the most prominent writers of this era include Nathaniel Hawthorne, Herman Melville, and Edgar Allan Poe.

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Examine Said’s definition of Orientalism. Do you find any flaws, or loop holes, in his argument?

                                                              

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-10)

ENGLISH STUDIES IN INDIA

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-10 

5. Examine Said’s definition of Orientalism. Do you find any flaws, or loop holes, in his argument? Discuss.

Orientalism is a concept developed by Edward Said in his book, "Orientalism," published in 1978. Said defines Orientalism as the Western portrayal and representation of the East, specifically the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. He argues that the West has constructed a false and exoticized image of the East, which is used to justify colonialism and imperialism. However, there are some potential flaws and loopholes in Said's argument. 

One potential flaw in Said's argument is that it is overly simplistic and generalizes the entire Western perspective on the East. Said's argument suggests that all Western representations of the East are negative and oppressive, which is not entirely accurate. There are instances where Western writers and scholars have portrayed the East in a positive light, celebrating its culture and traditions. Furthermore, Said's argument often does not account for the differences between the various Western countries and their approaches to Orientalism.

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The importance of a Dalit Consciousness' in Dalit writings

                                                             

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-10)

ENGLISH STUDIES IN INDIA

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-10 

4. What is the importance of a Dalit Consciousness' in Dalit writings? Explain with examples.

Dalit consciousness is the awareness and understanding of the systemic oppression and discrimination faced by Dalits, who are considered to be the lowest rung in the Hindu caste system. Dalit writings, therefore, reflect this consciousness, aiming to expose the injustices and inequality faced by Dalits while also providing a platform for their voices to be heard. 

The importance of Dalit consciousness in Dalit writings can be seen in the way it has helped to create a unique literary tradition that not only represents the experiences of Dalits but also challenges the dominant narrative perpetuated by upper-caste writers. Dalit literature emerged as a form of resistance against the caste system and aimed to create a space for Dalit voices to be heard. It highlights the experiences of Dalits, which are often ignored or misrepresented in mainstream literature.

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Explain the term 'exploding the canonˊ

                                                            

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-10)

ENGLISH STUDIES IN INDIA

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-10 

3. Explain the term 'exploding the canonˊ. Critically analyse what the term means.

The term 'exploding the canon' refers to a critical movement that challenges the traditional Western literary canon, which is dominated by works by white, male authors. The movement seeks to expand the literary canon by including works by authors from diverse backgrounds, including women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and writers from non-Western cultures. 

The concept of the literary canon has been a subject of debate in literary criticism for decades. The literary canon refers to a set of works that are considered to be the most important and influential in a particular culture or society. The traditional Western canon includes works by authors such as

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Why do you think Michael Madhusudan Dutt stopped writing in English and started writing in Bengali midway through his career as a writer?

                                                           

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-10)

ENGLISH STUDIES IN INDIA

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-10 

2. Why do you think Michael Madhusudan Dutt stopped writing in English and started writing in Bengali midway through his career as a writer?

Michael Madhusudan Dutt was a prominent Bengali poet and playwright of the nineteenth century who is known for his contribution to Bengali literature. Dutt began his literary career writing in English and gained recognition for his works such as 'The Captive Ladie' and 'The Fall of Delhi.' However, midway through his career, Dutt shifted to writing in Bengali, which raises the question of why he made this transition. This essay will explore the reasons behind Michael Madhusudan Dutt's shift from English to Bengali in his writing. 

One of the main reasons for Dutt's transition from English to Bengali writing was his desire to connect with his Bengali roots and express himself in his mother tongue. Despite being born into a Bengali family, Dutt was educated in English and was more comfortable writing in English initially. However, as he grew older, Dutt became increasingly aware of his cultural identity and the need to express himself in Bengali. He saw himself as a Bengali poet and wanted to contribute to the development of Bengali literature, which was then in its infancy.

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Would you agree that the social reform movements in India contributed to the institutionalisation of English studies?

                                                          

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-10)

ENGLISH STUDIES IN INDIA

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-10 

1.Would you agree that the social reform movements in India contributed to the institutionalisation of English studies? Discuss.

India has a rich history of social reform movements that have contributed to significant changes in various spheres of society, including education. The institutionalisation of English studies in India can be traced back to the efforts of social reformers who advocated for the introduction of English as a means of empowering the masses and promoting social mobility. This essay will explore the role of social reform movements in the institutionalisation of English studies in India. 

The social reform movements in India emerged in the nineteenth century as a response to the colonial rule of the British Empire. The colonial government imposed a Western-style education system that aimed to produce a class of Indians who would serve as intermediaries between the colonial rulers and the rest of the population. The education system was primarily focused on teaching English and subjects related to Western culture and civilization, while ignoring the local languages and traditions of India.

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The way Patrick White structures time in Voss

                                                         

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-9)

AUSTRALIAN LITERATURE

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-09 

5. Elaborate on the way Patrick White structures time in Voss.

Patrick White's "Voss" is a multi-layered work that uses a complex narrative structure to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. One of the key ways in which White structures time in the novel is through the use of multiple narrators and perspectives, which allows him to explore different facets of the story and to delve into the inner lives of his characters. 

At the center of the novel is the character of Voss, an enigmatic explorer who has come to Australia in search of adventure and meaning. Throughout the novel, we see Voss from multiple perspectives, as different characters reflect on his actions and try to understand his motivations. Through this fragmented and multi-perspectival narrative structure, White is able to explore the complexities of human experience and to challenge conventional notions of identity and selfhood.

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Gig Ryan’s work in the context of the notion of Australian ‘mateship’

                                                        

MASTER’S DEGREE IN ENGLISH (MEG-9)

AUSTRALIAN LITERATURE

ASSIGNMENT 

July 2022 and January 2023 Session

Course Code: MEG-09 

4. Discuss Gig Ryan’s work in the context of the notion of Australian ‘mateship’.

Gig Ryan is a prominent Australian poet known for her distinctive voice and unique style. Her work explores a wide range of themes and subjects, including love, loss, memory, and identity. One of the key themes in Ryan's work is the idea of Australian 'mateship', a concept that has played a central role in Australian culture and literature. 

The notion of mateship is deeply ingrained in the Australian psyche, and has been a central theme in Australian literature for centuries. Mateship is a concept that celebrates the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that exist between people, particularly between men. It is often associated with the idea of the 'Aussie larrikin', a character who is tough, independent, and unafraid to speak his mind.

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