Very often an author's life experiences have a profound influence on the content of his or her writing. Carson McCullers' body of writing is not large, but it is remarkable for its treatment of those who existed outside of "normal" society in a variety of different ways. Carson McCullers' own lifestyle was considered both controversial and unorthodox, and her feelings of loneliness and spiritual isolation permeate the portrayals of many of her characters.
You will read several selections about and by Carson McCullers that reveal various details of her life, her feelings and her philosophies. In addition, you will read critical articles on The Heart is a Lonely Hunter as well as synopses of and critical articles on her other works. After compiling notes on this data, you will write a short research essay on Carson McCullers as a "lonely hunter."
Step 1
- Copy and paste the Carson McCullers Research Guide into a Word document. Then find the answers by researching the links below. When you find information to answer a question, simply copy and paste the passage into the appropriate space.
- After the passage, include the title of the article and/or web page, the author and the URL, and any other information necessary for correct MLA Style Documentation and Works Cited.
- When you have completed this phase, save and then print your document.
Biography
- Carson McCullers: A Life of Confusion: a fairly traditional biography
- The Voice of the Maimed: a fairly non-traditional biography
Autobiography
Other Works/Literary Criticism
Step 2
- Read article on plagiarism.
- Copy and paste the Carson McCullers Research Guide into a Word document. Using your research data from Step 1, answer the questions in your own words. Be certain to include parenthetical documentation wherever necessary to avoid plagiarizing.
- When you have completed this phase, save and then print your document.
Step 3
Based upon your research, write a 300 word essay on Carson McCullers as a "lonely hunter." Discuss how her experiences are reflected in the characters and events of her novel The Heart is a Lonely Hunter.
You must use parenthetical documentation whenever you use a direct quote or paraphrase another person's idea or ideas. At the end of your essay you must include a Works Cited section. Use proper MLA Style for electronic resources for your parenthetical documentation and works cited. Note: If you are still uncertain of the proper method, this is a more comprehensive guide for citing resources using MLA Style.
- You will receive a homework grade for your research notes. These notes must include your "copy and paste" work as well as the notes written in your own words.
- You will receive a writing grade for your essay. The grade will be calculated based on the following points rubric:
Content = 50
- Your essay must give the details of Carson McCuller's life that are relevant to the essay topic of the writer as a lonely hunter.
- Your essay must show how these biographical details are apparent in The Heart is a Lonely Hunter as well as her other works.
Form = 25
- You must use proper parenthetical documentation.
- You must include a Works Cited page.
Grammar/Spelling/Mechanics = 25
- Follow all conventions of Standard Written English
- Standard 1 : Students will read, write, listen and speak for information and understanding.
- Standard 2 : Students will read write, listen and speak for literary response and expression.
- Standard 3: Students will read, write, listen and speak for critical analysis and evaluation.