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Student Opinion

100-Plus Writing Prompts to Explore Common Themes in Literature and Life

By The Learning Network

Jan. 31, 2019

Update, Feb. 15, 2019: Learn more about how to use our 1000s of writing prompts by watching our free on-demand webinar: “ Give Them Something to Write About: Teach Across the Curriculum With New York Times-Inspired Daily Prompts. ”

Every day since 2009 we’ve been asking students a question inspired by an article, essay, video or feature in The New York Times.

Periodically, we sort those questions into lists to make finding what you need easier, like these previous lists of prompts for personal or narrative writing and for argumentative writing , or like this monster list of more than 1,000 prompts , all categorized by subject.

This time, however, we’re making a list to help your students more easily connect the literature they’re reading to the world around them — and to help teachers find great works of nonfiction that can echo common literary themes.

Below, we’ve chosen the best prompts — those that ask the most relevant questions and link to the richest Times materials — from our Student Opinion collection that address every stage of life, from coming-of-age and wrestling with one’s identity to understanding one’s role in a family; making friends; getting an education; falling in love; working; and experiencing old age. We hope they can provide jumping-off points for discussion and writing, and inspiration for further reading.

Most teachers know that our Student Opinion questions are free and outside The Times’s digital subscription service, but what you may not realize is that if you access the Times articles we link to from those questions via our site, the articles are also free. So in this list we hope we’re not just suggesting 100-plus interesting questions, we hope we’ve also helped you find 100-plus great works of nonfiction that can speak to the literature your students are reading.

So whether you’re taking on classic works like “The Catcher in the Rye,” “Romeo and Juliet” or “1984,” or whether you’re teaching more contemporary literature like “The Poet X,” “Speak,” “Refugee” or “There There,” we hope there are more than a few items on this list that will resonate.

Please note: All our recent questions, from late 2016 on, are still open to comment on our site. While questions published on an older version of The Learning Network are no longer open to comment, both the questions and the related Times materials are still available via the link.

I. Coming-of-Age

1. What Rites of Passage Mark the Transition to Adulthood in Your Community? 2. When Have You Reinvented Yourself? 3. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 4. Have You Ever Felt Pressured by Family or Others in Making an Important Decision About Your Future? 5. What Do Older Generations Misunderstand About Teenagers Today? 6. Are You Too Hard on Yourself? 7. What Childhood Rules Did You Break? 8. What Have You Learned in Your Teens? 9. Do You Think Anxiety Is a Serious Problem Among Young People? 10. Does Suffering Make Us Stronger and Lead to Success? 11. Do We Give Children Too Many Trophies? 12. Do You Have ‘Emerging Adult’ Skills? 13. Is Childhood Today Too Risk-Free? 14. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 15. What Are Your Secret Survival Strategies? 16. What Have You Learned From a Younger Person — and What Have You Taught an Older Person? 17. Do You Think Teenagers Can Make a Difference in the World?

II. Identity

1. Are You the Same Person on Social Media as You Are in Real Life? 2. How Much Does Your Neighborhood Define Who You Are? 3. Have You Ever Taken a Stand That Isolated You From Your Peers? 4. What’s the Story Behind Your Name? 5. Are You Being Raised to Pursue Your Dreams? 6. Have You Ever Been Told You Couldn’t Do Something Because of Your Gender? 7. Do You Feel Constricted by Gender Norms? 8. What Messages About Gender Have You Gotten From Music? 9. Why Is Race So Hard to Talk About? 10. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 11. What Is the Role of Religion or Spirituality in Your Life? 12. How Often Do You Start Conversations About Faith or Spirituality? 13. What Is Your Earliest Memory? 14. How Resilient Are You? 15. Are You a Patient Person? 16. What Role Does Envy Play in Your Life? 17. How Do You Handle Fear? 18. How Much Control Do You Think You Have Over Your Fate? 19. What Are You Grateful For? 20. How Often Do You Leave Your ‘Comfort Zone’? 21. When Was the Last Time You Did Something That Scared or Challenged You? 22. Does What You Wear Say Anything About You as a Person?

III. Being Part of a Family

1. Who Is Your Family? 2. How Are You and Your Parents Alike and Different? 3. How Much Freedom Have Your Parents Given You? 4. Will You Follow in Your Parents’ Footsteps? 5. How Much Do You Know About Your Family’s History? 6. How Often Do You Fight With Your Parents? 7. Do You Have Helicopter Parents? 8. Do Your Parents Spy on You? 9. Should Parents Track Their Teenager’s Location? 10. How Do You Make Parenting Difficult for Your Parents? 11. What Good Can Come From Disagreements? 12. What Advice Would You Give to Your Mom, Dad or Guardian on How to Be a Better Parent? 13. How Do You Get What You Want From Your Parents? 14. Should Parents Bribe Their Children? 15. Do Your Parents Yell at You? 16. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 17. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 18. Do the Adults in Your Life Follow You on Social Media? 19. What Advice Do You Have for Teenagers and Their Parents? 20. What Messages About Food and Eating Have You Learned From Your Family?

IV. Making Friends, IRL and Online

1. Do You Ever Feel Lonely? (video) 2. How Good a Friend Are You? 3. Do You Find It Easier to Make New Friends Online or in Person? 4. How Alike Are You and Your Friends? 5. Do You Have Any Unlikely Friendships? 6. What Does the World Need to Know About an Important Person in Your Life? 7. Does Technology Make Us More Alone? (video) 8. How Often Do You Spend One-on-One Time With Your Closest Friends? 9. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? (quiz) 10. Do You Spend Enough Time With Other People? 11. How Do You Feel About Introducing Friends From Different Parts of Your Life? 12. Do You Like Your Friends? 13. Do You Consider Your Siblings Friends? 14. How Have You Helped a Friend in a Time of Need? 15. Do You Take More Risks When You Are Around Your Friends? 16. Who Outside Your Family Has Made a Difference in Your Life? 17. Do You Ever Talk About Issues of Race and Class With Your Friends? 18. Is Your Online World Just a ‘Filter Bubble’ of People With the Same Opinions?

V. Getting an Education

1. What Do You Wish Your Teachers Knew About You? 2. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 3. Are You Stressed About School? 4. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 5. How Well Do Rewards and Incentives Work to Motivate You? 6. Are High School Students Being Worked Too Hard? 7. When Has a Teacher Inspired You? (video) 8. Has a Teacher Ever Changed Your Mind-Set? 9. Does Your Teacher’s Identity Affect Your Learning? 10. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 11. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 12. Have You Experienced Racism or Other Kinds of Discrimination in School? 13. Do Teachers Assign Too Much Homework? 14. How Should Schools Address Cyberbullying? (video) 15. Has a Novel Ever Helped You Understand Yourself or Your World Better? 16. Is Your School’s Dress Code Too Strict? 17. What Worries Do You Have About College? 18. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 19. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 20. Should Everyone Go to College? 21. How Prepared Are You for College? How Well Do You Think You’ll Do? 22. How Well Do You Think Standardized Tests Measure Your Abilities? 23. Can Students at Your School Talk Openly About Their Mental Health Issues? 24. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea?

VI. Learning About Love (and Sex)

1. Have You Ever Been in Love? 2. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 3. What Are the Basic ‘Rules’ for Handling Breakups? 4. What’s the Best Way to Heal a Broken Heart? 5. How Important Do You Think It Is to Marry Someone With the Same Religion? 6. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating? 7. Is Dating a Thing of the Past? 8. Is Hookup Culture Leaving Your Generation Unhappy and Unprepared for Love? 9. Could Following These Directions Make You Fall in Love With a Stranger? 10. What Constitutes Sexual Consent? 11. Do You Find It Hard to Say ‘I Love You’?

VII. Working and Finding Your Purpose

1. What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up? 2. Do You Think You Will Have a Career That You Love? 3. Would You Pursue a Career If You Knew You Likely Would Not Make Much Money? 4. Does Achieving Success Always Include Being Happy? 5. How Do You Express Yourself Creatively? 6. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Hustle Culture’? 7. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 8. Does Achieving Success Always Include Being Happy? 9. Do You Give Yourself Enough Credit for Your Own Successes? 10. How Important a Role Has Money, Work or Social Class Played in Your Life? 11. When Have You Failed? What Did You Learn From It? 12. What Challenges Have You Overcome? 13. What Are Your Expectations About Earning, Saving and Spending Money? 14. What Choices Do You Make About Money Every Day? 15. Do You Perform Better When You’re Competing or When You’re Collaborating? 16. What Activities Make You Feel Most Alive? 17. Where Do You Think You Will Live When You Are an Adult?

VIII. Experiencing Old Age and Confronting Death

1. Do You Look Forward to Old Age? 2. Would You Want to Live Forever? 3. What Do You Want to Be Known for After Your Death? 4. If the World Was Ending, What Would You Want to Say? 5. Would You Like to Be Cryogenically Preserved (Frozen!) Upon Your Death? 6. Do You Believe That Everything Happens for a Reason?

435 Literary Analysis Essay Topics and Prompts [2024 Upd]

Literature courses are about two things: reading and writing about what you’ve read. For most students, it’s hard enough to understand great pieces of literature, never mind analyzing them. And with so many books and stories out there, choosing one to write about can be a chore.

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The picture says that literary analysis involves interpretation and evaluation.

But you’re in luck!

This article by our Custom Writing service experts presents a list of the most interesting and creative literary analysis topics. Additionally, you will find here:

helpful essay prompts;
a writing guide with simple tips;
a literary analysis example.

This comprehensive article can be helpful not only for university or college students but also to students of high and middle school.

🔝 Top 10 Literature Topics for High School
🔮 Top 10 Literary Topics for College
📜 Topics from Different Eras
🖋️ Poetry Analysis Topics
🎭 Shakespeare Essay Topics
📚 English Literature Topics: Different Authors
💡 Non-Fiction Literature Topics
⭐ Other Ideas
🖊️ Literary Analysis Prompts
✍️ Writing Guide
📃 Essay Example

🔗 References

🔝 top 10 literature essay topics for high school.

The role of religion in King Lear  
Milk symbolism in Beloved  
Is there gender inequality in Iliad ? 
Social issues of The Little Match Girl  
Gender roles in The Great Gatsby  
Frankenstein : historical background 
How is loyalty presented in Beowulf ?
Flower symbolism in A Rose for Emily
Politics in Titus Andronicus  
The presentation of power in Ozymandias

🔮 Top 10 Literary Analysis Essay Topics for College

Nature symbolism in Young Goodman Brown  
Childhood trauma in God Help the Child  
The consequences of Macbeth’s ambition 
The historical context of The Scarlet Letter  
Presentation of misery in The Chimney Sweeper
The supernatural in The Fall of the House of Usher  
What does Dorian Gray’s portrait represent? 
How is the true inner self discovered in Demian ? 
Natural beauty in I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud  
Endurance as a theme of The Old Man and the Sea

📜 Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Different Eras

Topics in ancient greek & roman literature.

Works of literature from Ancient Greece have a timeless quality. This is why they are still taught in schools centuries later. After thousands of years, there is little that hasn’t already been written about these works. That’s why we’ve gathered the only most outstanding topics that you will definitely find interesting:

Justice in Plato’s The Republic . Plato is perhaps the most influential thinker in the Western World. Accordingly, writing about his powerful philosophical dialogs is a challenging task. Most teachers will assign only portions of The Republic . We suggest you write about the theme of justice, but you can choose to focus on any other aspect of the dialog.
Determination in Sophocles’ Antigone . Antigone is one of the masterworks of the Greek playwright Sophocles. In this tale of royal succession, key themes include civil disobedience, natural and human law, and faithfulness.
Odysseus as an atypical hero in The Odyssey . The Odyssey by Homer is considered one of the most important poems in Classic literature. Odysseus is a unique epic hero facing an unusual challenge: his goal is not to win battles but to reconnect with his family. He has to rely on his wit rather than sheer power to achieve it. In your essay, explain how Odysseus differs from other heroes in Greek mythology .
Ethical principles in Aesop’s Fables . Aesop’s Fables represent a unique example of Ancient Greek literature. The stories written by a slave have become a cultural phenomenon centuries later. Even today, the morals of his works stay relevant.
The influence of Greek tragedy on modern theater. Sophocles’ and Aeschylus ‘ plays can still be found in the repertoire of many theaters. Moreover, their works often serve as inspiration for contemporary playwrights.
The tragedy of Oedipus in Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex . Oedipus is one of the best-known classic tragic heroes. In killing his father and marrying his mother, he fulfilled the prophecy of the Oracle. Through this play, Sophocles explores the themes of destiny and human flaws.
The variety of genres in the Metamorphoses. Millennia after Ovid’s Metamorphoses were written, scholars still argue about the genre of this work. Ovid blended historical events with fiction and experimented with the tone and themes of the poem.
The role of gods in Homer’s epic poems. In Homer’s Iliad and The Odyssey , gods often determine the outcomes of major events and change heroes’ destinies. They can become powerful allies or dangerous enemies of humans. Explore how divine interventions change the course of the story in both poems. Focus on Athene, Apollo, Aphrodite, Hera, and Poseidon.
Cicero’s legacy in Western politics and philosophy. Cicero’s letters are widely recognized as some of the most influential works of Latin literature. John Locke , Voltaire, and Martin Luther are among the figures inspired by him. Cicero’s philosophy teaching also influenced revolutionary movements in France and America in the 17 th century.

Literary Essay Topics: 19th and 20th Century

Many great literary works in the English language were written in the golden era of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. These works, ranging from epic novels to short poems, provide insight into the themes that define the Anglophone world’s spirit.

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The conflict between good and evil in The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes . Sherlock Holmes—a character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle—is considered the most famous fictional detective of all time. The Adventure of the Speckled Band is the favorite Holmes story of both the author and readers. Accordingly, many students choose to analyze this short story, which explores the themes of chaos.
Lord of the Flies as an allegory of modern society. Students of all ages have read Lord of the Flies , the classic novella by William Golding that explores the dangers of groupthink, the conflicts between rationality and irrationality, and morality and immorality., the classic novella by William Golding that explores the dangers of groupthink, the conflicts between rationality and irrationality, and morality and immorality.
The arbitrary nature of time and history in The Princess Bride . William Goldman’s The Princess Bride is such an entertaining story that it was adapted into an even more popular film. The key theme explored in this book is the power of love to conquer all.
The theme of money and greed in The Rocking Horse Winner . D. H. Lawrence is one of the masters of 20 th -century English literature, and his short story The Rocking Horse Winner clearly demonstrates his skill. In this tale of a struggling family, the themes of money and greed are thoroughly explored as a young boy uses clairvoyance gained on a rocking horse to predict race outcomes.
Is Of Mice and Men a classic tale of struggle? The American writer John Steinbeck captured the hardships faced by ordinary people during the Great Depression . The main recurring theme among Of Mice and Men characters is striving after dreams, often futilely, as demonstrated by them all: from George and Lennie to Candy and Curley’s wife.
The themes of reality and fantasy in A Streetcar Named Desire . Tennessee Williams’s masterpiece A Streetcar Named Desire is perhaps the most famous American dramatic play of all time. The central theme explored in this provocative play is the contemporary dependence of women on men.
Comparison of Ivan and Alexei in The Brothers Karamazov. The conflict between faith and doubt is arguably the central topic of Dostoevsky’s work, and The Brothers Karamazov is a perfect example of it. Alexei is a devout Orthodox Christian who believes in miracles. His brother, Ivan, rejects the concept of divine transcendence and embraces atheism.
Charles Dickens’ ambivalent attitude towards the poor. Dickens is widely considered an advocate of the poor’s rights and social change. Indeed, many of his impoverished characters are likable. However, Dickens also believes that the poor can be dangerous to society. Some of the works you can discuss are Oliver Twist, A Tale of Two Cities , and Barnaby Rudge .
Magic realism in One Hundred Years of Solitude . Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s masterpiece, One Hundred Years of Solitude, is written in the genre of magical realism. Marquez tells a fictional story of the Buendia family, blending daily routine with extraordinary events, effectively blurring the line between reality and fiction.
The differences between dystopian worlds in 1984 and A Brave New World . George Orwell and Aldous Huxley wrote the two most famous dystopian novels of the 20 th century. In both of them, the government has complete control over society, which is obtained through different strategies. In your essay, you may compare the policies in 1984 and A Brave New World .
On the Road as the landmark novel of the Beat Generation. Jack Kerouac and other members of the Beat movement challenged the typical American middle-class lifestyle in their works. On the Road embodies the main principles of their philosophy. Some of the topics to explore are freedom, spontaneity, and nonconformity.
The role of the changing narrative in Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury . The Sound and the Fury is often praised for its experimental form. Four narrators tell the story from different perspectives and in contrasting tones. Explore how the changing narrative affects the overall perception of the novel.
Folklore, religion, and myth in Toni Morrison’s works. Toni Morrison is widely recognized as one of the most influential contemporary Black American writers. Her works are inspired mainly by her African heritage and Western mythology. Some of the novels to explore are Beloved and Song of Solo mon .
Expression of war experiences in American fiction. Wars in the 20 th century had a significant impact on American literature. Many writers participated in armed conflicts. Hemingway, Vonnegut, Salinger, and O’Brien are some of the authors who reflect on their war experiences in semi-autobiographic novels and short stories.

Contemporary Literature Essay Topics

Excellent books are still being written! Once in a while, your instructor may ask you to analyze a more recent work. Here are a few great books to consider for your next essay.

The theme of overcoming obstacles and poverty in Reservation Blues . Sherman Alexie’s novel Reservation Blues tells the story of a group of young men from the Spokane Indian reservation. They obtain the enchanted guitar of a legendary bluesman. Aside from overcoming obstacles, this book explores many other themes of Native American life.
Family obligations in Montana 1948 by Larry Watson . This novella is set in the Western American state of Montana, where a young man’s family struggles to survive. You may explore the theme of family obligations in conjunction with loyalty and justice.
The presentation of grief in The Lovely Bones . In Alice Sebold’s The Lovely Bones , the protagonist Susie dies violently. And then, her spirit proceeds to watch over the investigation of her disappearance and her family members’ lives.
Self-sacrifice as one of the central themes of Harry Potter . You may also want to write about any other theme of the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling. But remember: when you write about a book that was turned into a movie, make sure to actually read the book!
Cultural and religious references in Saunders’ Lincoln in the Bardo. One of the most acclaimed novels in recent years, Lincoln in the Bardo deals with the themes of death and the afterlife. A Tibetan concept of bardo inspires Saunders’ work, but the author also borrows ideas from other cultures and religions.
The theme of cultural assimilation in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Americanah. In her third novel, Adichie draws upon her personal experiences to tackle the issues African immigrants face when they move to the US. Explore the effects of immigration on the protagonist’s personality, views, and behavior.
Hypocrisy as the central theme of Ian McEwan’s Amsterdam. In Amsterdam , McEwan explores the contrast between public figures’ statements and their personal lives. None of the major characters in the novel act in accordance with their ethical standards. We suggest you focus on the figures of Clive, Vernon, and Julian.
Paul Beatty’s The Sellout : Satire on racial stereotypes. Beatty employs satire and irony to tackle some of the most pressing current issues in American society. The Sellout can be used as an encyclopedia of stereotypes associated with African Americans. Explore how the author uses literary devices to highlight their absurdity.
Cloning ethics in Kazuo Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go . In the dystopian world of Never Let Me Go , cloning is a common practice. However, clones are used only as organ donors; they are not perceived as human beings. Explain how Ishiguro uses the narrative to challenge this social norm. For example, his characters can make art and fall in love.
Comparison of the New and Old Gods in Neil Gaiman’s American Gods. In American Gods , the narrative is based on the idea that humans created deities. The Old Gods in mythology represent the forces of nature, and The New Gods represent technologies that shape modern society. Discuss the similarities and differences between these two groups.

🖋️ Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Poetry

Many of the great works of literature are poems. Writing about them requires a special approach. Here’s a tip: don’t be afraid to quote the poem heavily and give several alternative interpretations. But first, check out this list of excellent topics:

A real-life war experience in Crane’s War is Kind . An American poet and writer Stephen Crane wrote the acclaimed American Civil War novel The Red Badge of Courage . But not everyone knows that he also wrote a collection of poems entitled War is Kind . Through these poems, he delved deep into the themes of war and violence based on his experience in the Spanish–American and Greco–Turkish Wars.
The theme of religion in John Donne’s sonnets. At the opposite end of the poetry spectrum, you can find the Elizabethan-era Englishman, John Donne . His works were written mainly in the form of sonnets focused on the themes of love, social criticism, death, and religion.
Mysticism in William Butler Yeats’s poetry . The occult, spiritualism, and Irish mythology profoundly influenced Yeats’ work. Many of his poems are preoccupied with the Apocalypse, immortality of the human soul, and the spirit world. Start your research with The Second Coming and Sailing to Byzantium.
Allusions in Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven . The Raven is widely recognized as one of the most famous poems of all time. It contains numerous references and allusions to the Bible, folklore, and other literary works. Examine and quote Poe’s sources of inspiration.
The meaning of The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost . Robert Frost’s poetry is often praised for his rich metaphorical language. The Road Not Taken is a quintessential piece that’s often misunderstood. In your essay, you may explore its alternative interpretations.
The evolution of blank verse in English poetry. Blank verse emerged in English poetry in the 16 th century and has been used by some of the most influential poets since then. While its main features have remained largely unchanged, many prominent authors experimented with its form. For example, you can analyze the use of blank verse in the poetry of Shakespeare , Milton, and Wordsworth.
Main themes and features of Beat poetry. The Beat movement played a pivotal role in the cultural processes in the post-war US. Beat poetry is characterized by rebellion, transgression, and experiments with form. Some of the authors to check out are Allen Ginsberg , Gregory Corso, Lawrence Ferlinghetti , and Gary Snyder.
The narrator in Walt Whitman’s Song of Myself . Unlike many poets of his time, Whitman rejected the dichotomy of body and soul. In Song of Myself , the narrator represents the union of the “temporary” human body with the immortal soul. Consider exploring Whitman’s philosophy behind the notion of “self” in the poem.
William Blake’s influence on British and American poetry and culture. Blake’s contemporaries largely disregarded his poetry. However, his influence on the later generations is hard to overestimate. His values and ideas inspired the Pre-Raphaelites, the Beat Generation, and some of the prominent figures of the American music scene, including Bob Dylan and Jim Morrison. and Jim Morrison.

🎭 Literary Analysis: Shakespeare Essay Topics

Romeo and juliet essay topics.

How many Romeo and Juliet personal responses and analysis essays have already been written? There are too many of them to count, but there’s still room for more. Romeo and Juliet essay examples can help you find a unique topic for an essay about the play. Another option is to check out top Romeo and Juliet themes below:

How does fate affect the love plot in Romeo and Juliet ?
Concept of contrasts in the language of the play.
The significance of time in Romeo and Juliet
The tragic love theme of Romeo and Juliet as a cliché for romantic fatalism
Mercutio as a representation of loyalty
Montagues and Capulets: the conflict between generations
How is irony used in the play?
The role of the family in Romeo and Juliet
The social and historical context of the play
Nurse’s role in the death of Romeo and Juliet

Hamlet Essay Topics

Shakespeare’s Hamlet may be the most widely assigned play in the English courses. Here are the top Hamlet essay topics worth exploring.

The theme of disillusionment in Hamlet
Mistreatment of women in Hamlet as a representation of misogyny in Shakespeare’s times
How has the tragedy’s theme of madness affected modern literature?
What role does melancholy play in Hamlet ?
The connection between friendship and betrayal in the character of Laertes
Comedic elements in Hamlet
The impact of Gertrude and Claudius’ marriage on Hamlet’s revenge
What is the symbolism of The Mousetrap play?
The impact of introspection on Hamlet’s revenge
Analysis of the Denmark setting in Hamlet

Macbeth Essay Topics

Shakespeare’s Macbeth is the last (and shortest) of the three big Shakespearean plays every high school student reads before graduation. Like the rest of William Shakespeare’s tragedies, it is full of meaningful themes that can serve as topics for literary analysis essays.

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The corrupting influence of ambition in Macbeth
Supernatural elements in Macbeth
The impact of loyalty and betrayal on the plot
What does sleep symbolize in the play?
Why is Macbeth a victim of fate?
The role of darkness as a setting in Macbeth
Is blood a symbol of guilt in Macbeth ?
The causes of Macbeth’s mental deterioration
The impact of Macbeth’s hallucinations on his character development
Minor characters’ contributions to the play’s action

Lady Macbeths real name was Gruoch and Macbeth’s real name was Mac Bethad Mac Findlaich.

Shakespeare wrote many more plays beyond the big three listed above. Here are a few more topics and works that show the range of the Bard.

The theme of madness in King Lear . Shakespeare’s King Lear is one of the longest works by the Bard. Many actors feel that the title role is one of the most challenging available for an actor because of the character’s gradual descent into madness. Accordingly, “madness” is perhaps the best topic related to this play.
The presentation of love and adoration in Sonnet 18 . Shakespeare’s sonnets make excellent essay topics because they are so concise but rich in meaning. Love and devotion, which are expressed in Sonnet 18 and throughout his other sonnets, serve as great critical analysis essay topics.
The theme of the crown in Shakespeare’s Henry IV
Sexuality, sensuality, and spirituality in William Shakespeare’s sonnets
Ambition in Hamlet and Macbeth : choices of men and women characters
The use of disguise in The Twelfth Night
Different faces of love in Shakespeare’s sonnets and plays
Appearance as the most potent disguise in Shakespeare’s plays
The use of satire in William Shakespeare’s comedies and tragedies
The line between acting and real life in Hamlet
Parallels between Shakespeare’s King Lear and Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex
The use of allusion in The Tempest
The complexity of the female character in Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra
Archetypal female characters in Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets
William Shakespeare’s authorship: style, vocabulary, themes, and dates
The role of Shakespeare in the world of literature
How does William Shakespeare use the meter in his plays?
The depiction of the supernatural in Macbeth , The Tempest , and A Midsummer Night’s Dream
The theme of race and ethnicity in Othello
Personal identity in Hamlet and Henry IV

By the way, you can find all of Shakespeare’s works on our website for free.

📚 English Literature Essay Topics: Different Authors

Some can find it easier to focus on particular authors and their works. Are you one of them? Here are possible topics for those who like traditional approaches.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Geoffrey Chaucer

Chaucer’s works of the French and Italian periods
Primary themes and motifs in Troilus and Criseyde
Women’s virtues, as seen by Chaucer and his contemporaries
Gender: conventions and innovations in Geoffrey Chaucer’s works
Chaucer’s role in the development of a heroic couplet
Chaucer’s use of the vernacular language: nobility and nation
Religious morals in The Canterbury Tales
The roots of class conflict in The Canterbury Tales
Chaucer’s influence on modern English dialects
The critique of clergy in The Canterbury Tales
The influence of medieval Italian poetry on Chaucer’s work
Central themes in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Book of the Duchess
The comparison of Chaucer’s Troilus and Criseyde and Shakespeare’s Troilus and Cressida
Elements of comedy in The Canterbury Tales
Chaucer as a pioneer of rhyme royal in English poetry
Chaucer’s primary sources of inspiration in Roman poetry: Ovid and Virgil
The depiction of the middle class in The Canterbury Tales

Literary Essay Topics on John Keats

Different shapes of death in John Keats’s works
What was wrong with Keats’s Otho the Great ?
Byron’s influence on Keats’s style and themes
The uniqueness of John Keats’ imagery
Keats’s letters and their influence on the English literature
Greek classics as a source of inspiration for Keats
Keats’ stance on social and political issues of his time
The importance of nature in Keats’ odes
The themes of melancholy and isolation in Keats’ poetry
Keats’ perception of art and its role in Ode on a Grecian Urn
The polemics on Keats’ statement “Beauty is truth”
The values of Romanticism in Keats’ poetry
Keats’ concept of negative capability and its examples in his poetry
The differences between the Romantic poetry of Keats and Coleridge
Keats’ attitude towards Christianity and pagan mythology

Literature Essay Topics on Oscar Wilde

A perfect wife as depicted in An Ideal Husband
The Picture of Dorian Gray as the aesthete’s manifesto
Wilde’s essential inspirations and the development of his views
The Picture of Dorian Gray : will beauty save the world?
Oscar Wilde’s personal traits in his characters
The Picture of Dorian Gray : Lord Henry’s morality or immorality
Irony, sarcasm, and satire in Oscar Wilde’s works
The use of metaphors in The Ballad of Reading Gaol
The Picture of Dorian Gray : was the young man innocent?
Conventions and innovations in Oscar Wilde’s fairy stories
Oscar Wilde as the most celebrated master of paradox
Play on words in Oscar Wilde’s major works
Christian theme in De Profundis
The Importance of Being Earnest as the critique of Victorian society
The role of the Dance of the Seven Veils in Wilde’s Salome
Wilde’s aesthetic philosophy in his essay The Critic as Artist
The Soul of Man under Socialism : an expression of Wilde’s political views
Wilde as one of the key figures of the Decadent movement
Women characters in Oscar Wilde’s comedies
The theme of sacrifice in Wilde’s short stories
The dichotomy of body and soul in The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Fisherman and His Soul
The recurring motifs in Oscar Wilde’s comedies

George Orwell Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Orwell’s imagery in the depiction of totalitarian regimes
George Orwell’s background: inspirations for themes and symbols
Orwell’s views on the English language and literature
The historical context of 1984 and Animal Farm
The role of the media in Orwell’s characters’ lives
The character of the Big Brother in 1984
Naturalism and imagery in The Road to Wigan Pier
Why was Animal Farm regarded as controversial in the 1950s?
Orwell’s religious views in Lear, Tolstoy, and the Fool
Winston Smith’s journey to freedom in 1984

💡 Literary Analysis Topics in Non-Fiction

The world of literature goes far beyond William Shakespeare and fiction in general. Here is a bunch of more literary analysis paper topics for other great works of literature that deal with real-life events.

Religious faith and dehumanization in Night . Elie Wiesel’s classic memoir of the Holocaust is a difficult book for many students to read. And yet, you may need to write a Night by Elie Wiesel essay at some point. Religion and dehumanization are prominent themes that can serve as great topics.
The power of nature in Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild . The story chronicles the journey of 22-year-old Christopher McCandless from modern society into a 2-year trip in the wilderness of the western United States. This work of non-fiction explores the themes of escape, community, and the power of nature. (Warning: things do not end well for McCandless along the Stampede Trail of Alaska.)
Why We Can’t Wait by Martin Luther King as a source of inspiration for modern politicians and activists. Based on his Letter from Birmingham Jail , MLK’s Why We Can’t Wait is a study of the origins of the civil rights movement in the US. Analyze how activists and politicians can use ideas from this book in the 21 st century.
The themes of religion and technological progress in The Education of Henry Adams. In his autobiography, Henry Adams explores the influence of religion and technological progress on society. In the industrial world, technology has become a new religion. You may contrast and compare technological and religious societies in Adams’ work.
The banality of evil in Hannah Arendt’s Eichmann in Jerusalem. Hannah Arendt offers an original perspective on the nature of war crimes. According to her, ordinary people are capable of the most terrible deeds under specific circumstances. In your essay, explore Arendt’s concept of “the banality of evil.”
The role of photography in modern society, according to Susan Sontag. In her book On Photography , Susan Sontag explores how the role of this medium has been changing throughout the 20 th century. Analyze her arguments to establish the relationship between photography and political and social processes.
A Room of One’s Own as a manifesto of women’s literature. A Room of One’s Own reflects the women’s position in the literary scene. Woolf concludes that women’s writing capabilities match those of men. However, they often fail to reach their full potential because of the flawed structure of a male-dominated society.
Haruki Murakami’s Underground: a study of Japanese society. For Underground , Murakami conducted a series of interviews after the terrorist attack on the Tokyo subway. Rather than focusing on the act itself, the author uses this opportunity to explore the social issues that plague Japanese society.
T. S. Eliot’s literary criticism and views on poetry. T. S. Eliot is one of the most important literary critics and theorists of the early 20 th century. His theories and arguments have largely shaped the New Criticism movement in literature. Analyze the ideas expressed in Tradition and the Individual Talent and Hamlet and His Problems .

⭐ Literary Analysis Topics: Other Ideas

Literary essays don’t have to be devoted to analyzing a particular work. They may also include textual analysis essays, literary interpretations, critical response essays, and topic analyses. Here are some excellent options for you to consider:

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Character development of various protagonists. You may write an analytical essay describing and interpreting changes in the central characters of different novels. Try to be precise, provide examples, and prove the significance of these changes. You can consider the development of Soames in The Forsyte Saga or the title character in David Copperfield .
Context analysis of a historical period. Your analysis paper can be devoted to the settings of the short story, play, poem, or novel. Make emphasis on the role of the context in explaining the characters and the key ideas. For example, you can explore the wartime setting in Gone with the Wind .
Analysis of genre conventions. Another good choice is to dwell upon the practices used by various authors belonging to the same literary genre. You can write a critical essay about a realistic, romantic, gothic , or any other kind of novel and the author’s ability to meet or challenge genre expectations.
The impact of an author’s life on their legacy. The background of a novelist, short-story writer, poet, or playwright may also be of great interest to the reader. However, it is not enough to narrate the author’s life: you must be able to connect it with their style and themes. The most demonstrative analysis examples may include Henry Miller, Ernest Hemingway , and Lord Byron.
Comparative analysis of two authors . It is also a good idea to compare several authors. A critical evaluation essay may estimate their impact on the development of their genre. If these authors come from different backgrounds, it is also possible to evaluate how the culture they belonged to made a difference. For example, write about Dickens vs. Thackeray or Joyce vs. Woolf.
Comparative analysis of two texts . If you don’t want to compare authors, you may try comparing two literary works on the same topic or belonging to the same epoch or genre. For example, try analyzing the similarities and differences between Canterbury Tales and Decameron .
Analysis of a literary work’s structure. Analysis topics may include the stream-of-consciousness technique, theater of the absurd, etc. The idea is to show how new expressive means transformed the traditional approach to plot building and character development.
The role of irony in short stories. If you are to analyze a short story, you may describe how the author uses irony to communicate their message. Show how it creates meaning and what underlies it. Numerous authors employ irony as the major tool in their short stories, including Jerome K. Jerome and Salinger.
Analyzing the climax in a novel. Describing how the author builds the plot to reach the culmination is a good option for a novel critical analysis essay. Track how the tension is created and how it is released when the climax is reached. For example, you can try analyzing the climax in To Kill a Mockingbird .
Mood expression in a novel of your choice. Your essay may investigate how the vocabulary and grammar chosen by an author contribute to the text’s atmosphere. You can consider analyzing Lolita or Sons and Lovers .
The role of dialogue in plays. Your critical paper may highlight what means the playwright uses to make the characters’ speech expressive. For example, examine Oscar Wilde’s plays or Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot .
Stage directions in plays. You may also want to pay attention to the importance of the author’s notes and scene directions in a play. They are particularly crucial in modern drama. Consider analyzing Beckett’s Waiting for Godot or Shaw’s Heartbreak House.
The use of allegory in poems. It’s an excellent topic for poem analysis. You can suggest your own literary interpretation of an allegory or consider why the author opted for this device. For example, consider analyzing the allegories in Vision of Judgement .
An open ending in a novel. Suppose the work under analysis doesn’t have a conflict resolution. In that case, your critical evaluation essay can give arguments for the author’s choice and interpret its meaning and possible continuation scenarios. For example, you may analyze an open ending in Joyce’s Finnegans Wake.
Comparison of critical opinions on a novel. If the piece you have read ranks among the best-known works in the world, it would be a good idea to compare literary criticism examples related to this work. You may select two different critics and juxtapose their views. For example, try comparing critical opinions on Mrs. Dalloway .
Analyzing side characters in literary works. If your task is to analyze a character, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should write about a protagonist. A more creative approach would be to pick a static character that doesn’t go through any transformations throughout the book and suggest why the author made them this way. One option is to write about side characters in Vanity Fair .
The narrative voice in novels. It can be challenging yet enjoyable to describe the narrative voice and focalization techniques that help the reader see the events in a certain way. It is especially complicated when a text has several points of view. For example, you may choose to analyze the narrative voice in Faulkner’s Absalom! Absalom! or As I Lay Dying .
The narrators in literature. The previous topic can be narrowed: you can take a work written from a first-person point of view and draw parallels between the author and the main character. For example, you can consider writing about the narrator in Moby Dick .
The cultural background of Dumas’ novels. In the case of historical novels, an analytical paragraph may be devoted to the historical and cultural background. Any of Alexandre Dumas’ novels, such as The Three Musketeers , may serve as perfect literature examples to write about.
Imagery used by various poets. You can analyze specific images that poets use in their works. For example, try analyzing how Walt Whitman uses industrial imagery in his works.

Profound Literary Analysis Topics in Women’s Literature

Literary analysis on the topics of gender and women in society is critical to understanding the modern world. Here are a few powerful essay topics in this area.

The disruption of traditional gender roles in The Color Purple . According to New Republic, this National Book Award-winning work is considered a cultural touchstone for African American women . It features many heavy themes, such as sexism and racism. Keep in mind that this book is not for the faint of heart.
The themes of family and generational differences in Alice Walker’s short story Everyday Use . The short story is about heirloom possessions passed down from one generation of women to another.
Social standing and wealth as the two key themes in Pride and Prejudice . The protagonist of this book, Elizabeth Bennet, must choose between two suitors. One is an amiable man. The other is better established in society but has a colder personality.
Marriage and social status in Emma . Emma is the tale of a young woman less interested in securing her own marriage than her sisters. You can analyze the constraints placed upon women in 17 th -century society as reflected in this book.
Women’s role in society and gender roles according to The Great Lawsuit . The Great Lawsuit is often considered one of the most important early feminist works. The author, Margaret Fuller, argues that gender equality is a crucial aspect of a progressive society. She describes an ideal relationship between a man and a woman as an intellectual companionship.
Dystopia and feminism in A Handmaid’s Tale . In A Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood describes a world where women’s societal role is reduced to producing children. This work largely follows the traditions of classic dystopian novels written by Orwell and Huxley. Explore how the presence of the feminist discourse makes Atwood’s work stand out.
Gertrude Stein’s experiments with form and style. Gertrude Stein’s work is notable for her distinctive avant-garde style. Stein was an avid art collector, and trends in visual arts influenced her writings. Her narratives are characterized by the original use of tenses, repetitions, and archaisms.
The stream of consciousness in Virginia Woolf’s work . Virginia Woolf was one of the first writers to systematically use the stream of consciousness in her works. The narratives of her novels, such as Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse, are rooted in the descriptions of characters’ emotions and thoughts.
Political writings of Mercy Otis Warren. Mercy Otis Warren is famous for her political poems and plays written during the American Revolution. Explain how she used political satire to criticize the British rule. Start your research with the plays The Adulateur, The Defeat, and The Group .
Gender inequality in Jane Eyre . Widely recognized as one of the most successful works of women’s literature, Jane Eyre was a revolutionary novel for its time. It depicts the struggles of women in their fight for independence and equality in patriarchal Victorian society .
The blend of fiction and reality in The Yellow Wallpaper. Charlotte Perkins Gilman wrote The Yellow Wallpaper to document the trauma and stress she had experienced due to “rest therapy” prescribed to her by a psychiatrist. Back then, women suffering from depression were discouraged from any intellectual activity, as it was thought that “domestic life” would benefit them. In Gilman’s story, this treatment ultimately drives the protagonist to insanity.
Cleopatra in literature: from Geoffrey Chaucer to Margaret George
The depiction of Eve in Milton’s Paradise Lost
Archetypical female and male characters in Beowulf
Emmy’s submissiveness and Rebecca’s quick-wittedness in Vanity Fair
William Makepeace Thackeray’s Becky Sharp as an antihero
Becky Sharp as seen by Thackeray’s contemporaries and modern readers
Women empowerment and independence in Jane Austen’s novels
Women’s love and death: Shakespeare’s Ophelia and Wilde’s Sibyl
A Room of One’s Own : a woman’s manifesto still relevant now
First female voices in the Middle Ages: Aelia Eudocia Augusta
The Brontë sisters: Lady writers who broke the rules
Gender roles as depicted by Maugham in Theatre
This is the woman’s world: feminist utopias and dystopias
Female writers: themes explored in the 1910s vs. 2010s
Women characters’ virtues and vices in the 19th century
Women of color: themes of violence, discrimination, and empowerment
A Doll’s House as seen by Ibsen’s contemporaries
Is Ibsen’s A Doll’s House still relevant today?
Beauty standards as women’s oppression in The Bluest Eye
The complexity of the mother-daughter relationship in Tony Morrison’s Beloved
The evolvement of masculinity from medieval to postmodern literature
Masculinity in The Garden of Eden by Ernest Hemingway
Masculinity, identity, and queerness in Tennessee Williams’s works
Gender roles in utopias and dystopias: More and Huxley
Sexuality and gender stereotypes in Williams’s A Streetcar Named Desire
Charles Dickens’s depiction of aging men and women
Fairy tales as sources of gender stereotypes

Powerful Literary Analysis Topics within the Subject of Race

Colonialism in J. M. Coetzee’s Waiting for the Barbarians . A short Waiting for the Barbarians summary should capture the narrative of the escalation of tensions between a fictional colonial town and its surrounding indigenous population. When the protagonist helps a native woman, he begins to doubt the humanity of colonialism.
The portrayal of racism in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness . Heart of Darkness is the chilling tale of young Marlow’s voyage up the Congo River. There he meets the wicked ivory trader Kurtz. The book explores the themes of imperialism and racism. It also questions the civility of Western society over supposedly “savage” indigenous people.
The conflict between man and nature in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn . Mark Twain is one of the greatest American writers and satirists. But his masterpiece The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn delved into themes that would make some of the most serious literary analysis essay topics, such as the theme of freedom vs. slavery.
The theme of prejudice in To Kill a Mockingbird . Harper Lee’s novel was an instant classic upon release. To Kill a Mockingbird is set in the American South, and, like many books by Southern authors, it explores the themes of race and justice.
Anti-slavery narrative and racist stereotypes in Uncle Tom’s Cabin . Uncle Tom’s Cabin was one of the first universally acclaimed novels to tackle slavery. However, it is often criticized for its stereotypical portrayal of Black characters. Hence, it remains one of the most controversial pieces of American literature.
De Bois’ The Souls of Black Folk as the precursor of the Civil Rights movement. De Bois’ essays have largely laid the groundwork for the campaigns for racial equality in the 20 th century. He argued that African Americans deserved fundamental rights the White population had: voting, getting a higher education, and being treated fairly according to the law.
The notion of Black pride in A Raisin in the Sun . Lorraine Hansberry’s famous play touches upon topics of racial identity and pride inspired by real events. A Black family wants to purchase a house in a White neighborhood, but they are dissuaded from buying it. Eventually, they refuse to accept the buyout offer and move to their new place as planned.
Jefferson as a folk hero in A Lesson Before Dying . In A Lesson Before Dying , Ernest J. Gaines tells a story of a young Black man wrongfully accused of murder. Treated by White people as a sub-human, Jefferson completely loses his self-esteem at some point. However, with the help of a local Black teacher, he regains his pride and meets death with dignity. Explain how Jefferson’s transformation makes him a folk hero.
The impact of discriminatory laws on the life of African Americans in Fences. August Wilson’s Fences explores how discriminatory laws and attitudes defined the life of African Americans before the Civil Rights Movement. The protagonist, Troy Maxson, is a talented baseball player whose life is ruined because he didn’t get a chance to play in the professional league due to racial restrictions.
Internalized racism in Morrison’s Song of Solomon . In her book Song of Solomon , Toni Morrison explores the issue of internalized racism. Hagar and Macon Dead are the characters to study. Macon Dead, a Black entrepreneur, hates people of color and wants to leave his community. Hagar envies women with a lighter skin tone, as she sees them as superior to her.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings : A story of hatred and trauma. Maya Angelou is renowned for her autobiographical novels dealing with challenging topics like racism, trauma, and violence. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings addresses the issues she faced growing up as a Black child in a White neighborhood.

Death-Related Literature Essay Topics

Death in works of dying writers: Keats and Blake
Death in Milton’s poetry: imagery and symbols
Emily Dickinson’s fascination with decay, degradation, and death
John Keats’s and William Shakespeare’s depictions of death
Views on death in the Renaissance literature
Murder and suicide in Shakespeare’s tragedies Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet
Depictions of death in Postmodernist literature
Aging as seen in medieval , Renaissance, and Postmodernist literature
Death and decay in Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray
Love, life, and death in Huxley’s dystopian society
Murder in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men
Herman Melville’s Moby Dick : The concepts of life and death
Simon’s death in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
Kate Chopin’s ironic take on death in The Story of an Hour
Seneca’s life and philosophy: Death as liberation
The role of death in existentialism
The theme of death in Ernest Hemingway’s works
The depiction of heaven and hell in Richard Matheson’s What Dreams May Come
The concept of free death in Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy
Gothic writers’ fascination with death
Hades : The realm of the dead in Greek mythology

Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Man and Nature

Dehumanizing nature: Robinson Crusoe and Lord of the Flies
Struggles with nature: Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe and Paulsen’s Hatchet
Nature’s wonders and dangers in Emily Dickenson’s works
Natural forces: from Homer to H. G. Wells
Power of natural forces in William Shakespeare’s The Tempest
The depiction of nature in Fears in Solitude by Coleridge
William Wordsworth’s poetic language and symbols used to describe nature
Nature in Brave New World : urban and rural settings
Nature in post-apocalyptic novels: decay and revival
The role of nature in Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings
The conflict between man and nature in Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea
Post-apocalyptic fiction as the critique of industrial society
Environmentalism in Ursula Le Guin’s works
Personal life and climate change in Barbara Kingsolver’s Flight Behavior
The role of nature in John Steinbeck’s East of Eden
The emergence of eco-fiction—a new genre in world literature
Nature in Romanticism: Comparison of Shelley’s, Wordsworth’s, and Keats’ poetry
Natty Bumppo’s and Judge Temple’s conflicting views on nature in James Fenimore Cooper’s The Pioneers
The impact of country life on the character development in Cormac McCarthy’s All the Pretty Horses

Literary Essay Topics on Religion

Religious influences: biblical themes and allusions in Beowulf
Religion as another burden in The Bluest Eye
Views on religious conventions in Milton’s Paradise Lost
Jonathan Swift’s satirical view of religions in Gulliver’s Travels
The role of religion in Charles Dickens’s works
The evolvement of religious beliefs in John Dryden’s works
Religious controversies as depicted in John Milton’s Paradise Lost
A spiritual journey in Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure
Biblical references in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick
Alternative narrative of the Biblical events in Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita
The meaning of Friedrich Nietzsche’s statement “God is Dead”
Billy’s Christian values in Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five
The figure of Moses in Biblical and Quranic narratives
Influence of The Pilgrim’s Progress on British and American literature
Buddhist and Hindu motives in Herman Hesse’s Siddhartha
Immanuel Kant’s critique of the arguments for the existence of God and his discussion of morality
Søren Kierkegaard’s critique of Christianity
Christian narratives and metaphors in C.S. Lewis’ works

Literary Analysis Topics: Justice and Judgment

The Hunchback of Notre Dame : who was the monster?
Justice and judgment in To Kill a Mockingbird
The role of judgment in Jane Austen’s novels
Judgment in Toni Morrison’s God Help the Child
A view of justice in John Milton’s Paradise Lost
Justice in dystopian novels: works of Orwell and Huxley
Judgment and guilt in Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter
The difference between justice and revenge in Aeschylus Oresteia
The genre of legal thriller in American literature
The themes of guilt, responsibility, and punishment in Bernhard Schlink’s The Reader
Justice and judgment in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment
Courtroom drama in American and British literature
Behavior modification experiment as an alternative to a prison sentence in Anthony Burgess’ A Clockwork Orange
Jeremy Bentham’s concept of panopticon prison and its critique in the works of other authors
Michel Foucault’s critique of the Western penal system
The role of the judgment of Paris in the Trojan War according to Greek mythology
Depiction of racial injustice in the works of African American authors

Literature Essay Topics on Good & Evil

A dichotomy of good and evil in the Middle Ages
Monsters and heroes in Beowulf : Beowulf, Hrothgar, Grendel
Wilde’s aesthetics: ugly is worse than evil
John Milton’s Satan : the good, the bad, and the beautiful
Victorian literary tradition: societal norms and personal happiness
Villains in the 19 th – and 20 th -century literary works
The good and the bad: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Evil forces of death in The Fall of the House of Usher
Presentation of good and evil in The Tempest characters
The contrast between Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights
Young Goodman Brown : a conflict between morality and temptation
The Creature and the humans in Frankenstein

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on War & Peace

Depiction of war in Shakespeare’s plays
The war between archangels and demons in Paradise Lost
War in Brecht’s Mother Courage and Her Children
War and peace in George Orwell’s 1984
Margaret Mitchell’s and Toni Morrison’s views on the Civil War
War as a part of human nature in Faulkner’s A Fable
Steinbeck’s exploration of injustice in The Grapes of Wrath
Wrongs of the modern society in Palahniuk’s Fight Club
The themes of war and nationality in Michael Ondaatje’s The English Patient
The Civil War as the background for Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women
Main themes in Erich Maria Remarque’s All Quiet on the Western Front
Depiction of war in Alexandre Dumas’ historical novels
The Cold War in John Le Carre’s novels
The political context of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible : The Cold War and McCarthyism
Depiction of war in children’s fiction
Leo Tolstoy’s views on history in War and Peace
Anti-militarism in Ernest Hemingway’s Farewell to Arms
Literature as a tool of cultural influence during the Cold War: The case of Boris Pasternak’s Doctor Zhivago

Literary Essay Topics on Vices on the Society

Thackeray: the culture of the 19th century as Vanity Fair
Dickens’s perspectives concerning social injustice in Oliver Twist
Ethnicity, discrimination, and identity in Orwell’s Burmese Days
Vices of totalitarian societies in George Orwell’s 1984
Injustice, torture, and dehumanization in Elie Wiesel’s Night
Vices of society in Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
J’Accuse: Emile Zola’s letter as critique of antisemitism and corruption
The emergence of transgressive fiction as a protest against conventional society
Critique of consumer society in Aldous Huxley’s A Brave New World
Social satire and political commentary in Harold Pinter’s later plays
Ray Bradbury’s science fiction as a means of social criticism
The emergence of dystopia: Evgeny Zamyatin’s We
Arthur Koestler’s Darkness at Noon as a critique of the totalitarian society
Claudius as an embodiment of human vices in Robert Graves’ I, Claudius
Geoffrey Chaucer’s critique of the wrongs of society in The Canterbury Tales

Interesting Literature Topics to Analyze: Literary Influences

Percy Bysshe Shelley’s interpretation of the Prometheus myth
William Shakespeare’s borrowings from ancient Greek writings and myths
Myths as a source of inspiration for Byron and Keats
Virginia Wolf’s fascination with Greek literature and Hellenism
James Joyce’s interpretation and use of Homer’s The Odyssey
Salome : Oscar Wilde’s retelling of a biblical story
John Milton’s exploration and interpretation of a biblical story
The influence of Keats’ Ode to a Nightingale on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s works
Biblical motifs in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
Don Quixote as an inspiration for Dostoyevsky’s The Idiot
Beowulf ’s impact on J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit
Shakespearean myths in Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

Literature Essay Topics: Various Genres

The evolution of horror fiction: from Mary Shelley to Stephen King
The place of fantasy in the modern literature
Why have fantasy novels gained such popularity today?
Fantasy novels by Tolkien and Martin: styles, imagery, themes
Major elements of modern fantasy novels and stories
The origins of fantasy fiction: the earliest works
The evolution of adventure fiction: from Homer to Fleming
Horror fiction: Stoker’s Dracula vs. Shelley’s Frankenstein
Theologus Autodidactus as an example of science fiction
Merging scientific and poetic elements in science fiction poetry
Comparing tragicomedies of Ancient Greece and 20th-century Europe
Significant features of a tragicomedy in postmodernist and metamodernist writings
Primary components of a coming-of-age novel: female and male perspectives
Elements of the coming-of-age novel in London’s Martin Eden
Satire in contemporary British and American literature
Satire or cynical humor: exploring Bierce’s The Devil’s Dictionary
Literary devices in naturalistic writing: Emile Zola’s approach
Elements of an antinovel in Laurence Sterne’s Tristram Shandy
Early examples of short stories: Charles Dickens’s style
Timeframes and symbols in Jonathan Nolan’s Memento Mori
Dystopian fiction in the 20th and 21st centuries
Coming-of-age novel or American dream novel: The Great Gatsby
The role of education and the media in dystopias
Crime fiction: is it pulp reading or high literature?
The suspense in Agatha Christies’ and Arthur Conan Doyle’s writings
The vampire in the 19th-century and 21st-century literature

Literary Topics: Uncommon Themes in Literature

Allegory and choice of animals in Orwell’s Animal Farm
Allegories in Faulkner’s A Rose for Emily
Multiculturalism and allusions in Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon
Faulkner’s metaphors in The Sound and the Fury
Imagery in Edgar Allan Poe’s famous poem The Raven
Music and enigma in The Raven
The role of personification in William Blake’s poetry
Comparing Ancient Greek and William Shakespeare’s iambic pentameter
The function of trochaic meter in Shakespeare’s works
Symbolism and imagery in William Blake’s poem Ah Sunflower
Symbols and metaphors in The Picture of Dorian Gray
Flower symbolism in D.H. Lawrence Odour of Chrysanthemums
Color as a symbol of Morrison’s God Help the Child
Symbolism in Le Guin’s The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas
Satire in Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden
Jane Austen’s personal traits in the narrator of Persuasion
Early forms of the stream of consciousness: Jane Austen’s style
Epistolary novels: works of Bram Stocker and Mary Shelley
Slave’s narrative in Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon
Peculiarities of addressing the reader in Shakespeare’s sonnets
Virginia Wolf’s stream of consciousness: narration or confession?
The narrator in Somerset Maugham’s Of Human Bondage
Authorial intrusion as a way to entice readers

🖊️ Literary Analysis Prompts: Top 21

We’ve gathered a total of 21 excellent literary analysis prompts for you. They cover a wide variety of genres and epochs, so you’ll surely find something that suits your needs. Check them out to gain inspiration for your assignment or project!

The Cask of Amontillado Literary Analysis Prompt

The central theme of The Cask of Amontillado is revenge. In your essay, you can analyze how suspense contributes to the revenge plot.
You may also explore the story’s tone and how it helps to build tension.
Alternatively, you can focus on the Gothic elements and their impact on the story’s atmosphere.

A Rose for Emily Literary Analysis Prompt

There are several important symbols in A Rose for Emily , such as a strand of hair, Emily’s house, or the ticking watch. You can dive deeper into their meaning and significance.
You may also focus on the story’s themes. They include death and conflict between generations.
Try analyzing literary devices Faulkner uses, including metaphors, irony, and personification. How do they contribute to the story’s mood?

The Story of an Hour Literary Analysis Prompt

One of the central themes featured in The Story of an Hour is freedom. Analyze what kind of freedom is discussed and how free the main character really is.
You may also explore Kate Chopin’s writing style. For example, focus on how irony complements the story’s plot and tone.
Another aspect that you can focus on is symbolism . Notable examples include time, death, and heart trouble.

Tell-Tale Heart Literary Analysis Prompt

Analyze why Edgar Allan Poe chose to tell the story in the first person. How does it contribute to the gloomy tone?
Or, you may focus on the story’s themes : guilt, confinement, and mental health. How are they represented?
Finally, you can examine the symbols in Tell-Tale Heart , such as the house, the bed, the bedroom, and the eye. Try to find out the meaning behind them.

Fahrenheit 451 Literary Analysis Prompt

Explore the use of animal imagery and the lack of nature descriptions in the novel.
You can also focus on the harmful effect of technology and its contribution to the dystopian world of Fahrenheit 451 .
The story’s central theme is censorship vs. freedom of speech. You may explore this conflict in your essay.

Prompt for a Literary Analysis of The Canterbury Tales

Analyze the themes of The Canterbury Tales . These include deceit, the church’s corruption, and the importance of company.
Focus on examining the writing style. Try to find out how it contributes to the tales’ tone and atmosphere.
You may also explore the symbols, such as clothing, appearance, and spring. If you’re curious about this literary work, check out our article on the symbols in The Canterbury Tales .

Prompt for a Literary Analysis of Barn Burning

Consider examining the conflict between loyalty to one’s family and obedience to the law.
Focus on analyzing the symbols of Barn Burning , such as the soiled egg and fire.
You can also explore the role of darkness in the story. Dive deeper into its contribution to the tone of Barn Burning .

Make sure to check out our Barn Burning study guide to learn more facts about the story.

Death of a Salesman Literary Analysis Prompt

Examine how the author covers the American dream theme in Death of a Salesman . What is the characters’ interpretation of the American dream?
You can also try analyzing the symbols in the play, such as diamonds, seeds, the rubber hose, and Linda’s stockings.
You may also focus on exploring the mythological figures connected with the story. Dive deeper into the comparisons to the Greek gods, such as Hercules and Adonis.

Want to know more? Check out our Death of a Salesman study guide .

Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

In your essay, you can focus on the symbols of Frankenstein , such as darkness and fire. Why are they important?
Another aspect you can concentrate on is the point of view. Mary Shelley writes from the perspective of 3 different characters. What does it help to achieve?
You can also explore the novel’s themes: sublime nature, family, creation, and dangerous knowledge. Check out our article on the themes in Frankenstein to learn more about them.

Hamlet Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

There are numerous themes in Hamlet that you can examine in your essay, including revenge, the supernatural, death, corruption, and politics.
You can also focus on the symbols of the story and their significance. They include Hamlet’s dark clothes, the skull , and the weather.
One of the motifs in Hamlet is misogyny. You can analyze its representation in the play.

To understand the play better, check out our Hamlet study guide .

Hamlet has been translated into Klingon.

Prompt for a Literary Analysis of Night by Elie Wiesel

One of the themes of Night is silence. You can explore why it is important and what it represents.
You can also focus on the symbolism of night and fire . Try to find out the meaning behind them.
Consider analyzing the characters in the novel and their actions in dramatic situations. Check out our article on characters in Night to learn more.

Othello Literary Analysis Prompt

One of the central themes of Othello is isolation and its dangers. Examine how it is portrayed.
Another theme you can analyze is that of justice. Try focusing on how the characters are driven by the desire to do always the right thing.
Consider exploring the famous metaphors from the play, such as jealousy being a “green-eyed monster.”

If you want to understand this literary work better, make sure to check out our Othello study guide .

Pride and Prejudice Literary Analysis Prompt

When it comes to the themes in Pride and Prejudice , you can focus on integrity, love, family, gender, class, and reputation.
Another central theme of the novel is marriage. Discuss the importance of marriage and its connection to social status and money.
In your essay, you can elaborate on the symbolism of dancing and its significance.

Don’t forget to check out our study guide on Pride and Prejudice to learn more about the novel’s elements.

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Literary Analysis Prompt

Consider analyzing the motifs of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight : games, the color green, and the seasons.
Apart from the motifs, you can also examine the themes of nature, chivalry, Christianity, courtesy, and truth. To learn more about them, check out our article on the themes of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight .
Finally, you may explore the symbolism of the green girdle. It’s an essential element of the poem and deserves special attention.

The Great Gatsby Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

One of the most popular symbols of The Great Gatsby is the green light. You can focus on exploring its iconic status in world literature.
One of the central themes of The Great Gatsby is the American dream . Analyze how it is portrayed and the author’s attitude to it.
Another idea for an essay is to write about the novel’s characters: Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, the Buchanans, and others. Make sure to read our article on The Great Gatsby characters to understand them better.

The Lottery Literary Analysis Prompt

What role do family ties play in The Lottery ? You can dive deeper into this motif and analyze its meaning and importance.
Another central theme of The Lottery is tradition. Your essay can focus on how dangerous it is to follow conventional practices blindly.
There are several symbols in the story, but the lottery itself is the key one. You can explore what it represents. And don’t forget to check out our analysis of The Lottery to learn more.

Kafka’s Metamorphosis Literary Analysis Prompt

One of the major themes of Metamorphosis is psychological distance. You can analyze how the main character’s transformation leads to his alienation.
Explore the story’s recurring symbols, such as food, the father’s uniform , and the portrait of a woman wearing furs.
Another point that you can focus on is the motifs of the story. They include transformation and sleep.

You’re welcome to read our The Metamorphosis study guide to learn more about the story.

The Necklace Literary Analysis Prompt

Consider analyzing the story’s themes. Some examples are greed, the deceptiveness of appearances, and vanity. Check out our article on The Necklace’s themes to learn all about them.
You can also focus on exploring the symbolism of the necklace . Try to dive deeper into how a piece of jewelry is connected to high status and wealth.
Explore how the class conflict is presented in The Necklace . You can also analyze the author’s attitude to it.

The Odyssey Literary Analysis Prompt

In your essay, focus on the epic’s main themes: vengeance, hospitality, and loyalty.
Homer uses many epithets in The Odyssey to describe the sea, such as “wine-dark.” Look into what they may represent.
Another good point for discussion is the symbolism. Consider discussing the significance of the wedding bed, the sea, eagles, and food.

To understand the poem better, check out our The Odyssey study guide .

The Yellow Wallpaper Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

The wallpaper is the central symbol of the story. In your essay, try to uncover its significance and how it affects the main character.
You can also analyze how Charlotte Perkins Gilman uses different types of irony in the story. Examples include dramatic, verbal, and situational irony.
You can also focus on The Yellow Wallpaper’s themes. Some of them are self-expression, mental illness, gender roles, miscommunication, and the role of women in marriage.

Don’t forget to check out our study guide if you want to know more.

Wuthering Heights Literary Analysis Prompt

Explore the symbolism of moors, nature, and ghosts. Emily Bronte uses these symbols to represent not only abstract ideas but also characters’ personalities.
You can also examine the central themes of Wuthering Heights. Some of them are love and passion, class conflict, revenge, and the supernatural.
Another point worth writing about is nature imagery and how the author uses it to represent the characters’ personalities. To learn about it, make sure to check out our Wuthering Heights analysis .

✍️ Writing a Literary Analysis: Step by Step

Now, after you’ve decided on your topic, it is time to write your analysis.

Don’t know where to start? Well, we got your back! Here are some steps for you to write a great literary essay.

If you wish to learn more, you can check out our guide on how to write a literary analysis.

Best Tips for Writing a Literary Analysis

There are many things to keep in mind when writing about literature. But there’s no need to worry: we are here to help you. Here are the four components that will help to make sure you get an excellent grade on your essay:

Make sure you refer to the literature you write about in the proper format. For example, the titles of plays and full-length books should be italicized, while poems and short stories should be in quotation marks. You may consult Purdue University’s excellent citation guides to be on the safe side.
Ensure that the quotes are properly attributed with the correct page numbers.
Avoid directly quoting or borrowing arguments from previously published literary analysis samples. Using the same forms of argument and language is a form of plagiarism.
Remember that you need a brief introduction with a clear thesis statement, distinct body paragraphs, and a cohesive conclusion. If you find it hard to write concisely, feel free to use our essay shortener to save time.

📃 Literary Analysis Example for Free

Looking for a fully-formatted literary analysis example? Look no further! Download our excellent sample in PDF format below.

The Little Match Girl is a short story by Hans Christian Andersen. It’s a touching tale about a poor girl who spends New Year’s Eve working on the streets, dreaming of a better life, and warming herself by lighting matches she failed to sell. Some of the main themes include loneliness, struggle, and cruelty.

We hope that you found some inspiration to take your essay on the next level. Let us know what literary studies topic you like the most and other literary analysis ideas you have!

❓ Literary Analysis Essay FAQs

If you’re writing a literary analysis, make sure you don’t summarize the text you are analyzing. Instead, focus on your thesis and the supporting evidence. You should also avoid using phrases such as “in my opinion.”

A literary analysis should always include information on the text’s components. They include plot, setting, themes, motifs, imagery, tone, and character analysis. Don’t forget to write about the way the author uses these elements and how they contribute to the overall work.

The introductory part of your literary analysis should include a thesis statement that conveys the structure of your essay. Don’t forget to mention the author and provide background information about the text. Remember to start your body paragraphs with a topic sentence.

A literary analysis is usually 5-paragraphs long. The introduction and conclusion consist of one paragraph each, while the main body has three.

A literary analysis is a type of writing assignment containing an analysis of a literary piece. In a literary analysis, you should evaluate and interpret the work by analyzing its plot, setting, motifs, themes, characters, and style.

Interesting Literary Analysis Essay Topics & Ideas

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Good Literary Analysis Essay Topic Ideas

How to choose a literary analysis essay topic , tips to write a compelling literary analysis essay.

You’re a literature student, and you’ve been assigned to work on a literature analysis essay, but you’re not sure which topic to go for. It’s a tricky situation!

We understand that choosing a worthy topic for a literary analysis essay is never an easy task. But don’t you worry!

For literature students, we know the importance of drafting an excellent literary analysis essay . And for an exceptional essay, one needs a standout topic.

That’s why in this blog, we have gathered more than 200 exciting and interesting literary analysis essay ideas for you to get started.

Read on!

If you are a high school or a college student, and you’re having difficulty coming up with a good topic for your essay, choose from the topic list below.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics Middle School

The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane
Reservation Blues by Sherman Alexie
Harry Potter’s powers in the Harry Potter novels by J.K. Rowling
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Allegory in Lord Byron’s Vision of Judgement
Impact of Henry Miller and Gordon Byron’s life on their legacy
Comparative analysis of Dickens VS Thackeray
Canterbury Tales VS Decameron
The irony in Jerome’s stories
Mood expressions in Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for High School

The representation of justice in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird
Analyze the theme of friendship in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men
Explore the theme of identity in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series
The role of nature in Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights
Discuss the concept of heroism in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings
The use of foreshadowing in George Orwell's Animal Farm
The representation of mental health in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar
The impact of war on individuals in Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried
The use of symbolism and allegory in Lois Lowry's The Giver
Discuss the role of cultural identity in Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club

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Literary Analysis Essay Topics For College

Literary devices used in The Night by Elie Wiesel
The portrayal of the escape theme in Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer
The evolution of Celie's character in 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker
Jane Austen's critique of social class and marriage in Pride and Prejudice
Shed light on the theme of chaos in Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Examine the historical events of World War II and their significance in Elie Wiesel's “Night.”
The power of love in The Princess Bride by William Goldman
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Presentation of dreams in Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
The Rocking Horse Winner by D.H. Lawrence

Literary Analysis Essay Prompts in Classics

The portrayal of fate in Romeo and Juliet
The portrayal of love in Romeo and Juliet
Concept of mortality in Shakespeare’s play Hamlet
Misogyny in Hamlet
Witchcraft in Shakespeare’s play Macbeth
The tragic flaws and character development of King Lear in William Shakespeare's play
The philosophical underpinnings of justice and governance in Plato's 'The Republic
Exploring the theme of civil disobedience and consequences in Sophocles' 'Antigone’
Exploring the conflict between illusion and reality in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'
The complex character relationships and moral dilemmas in 'Montana' by Larry Watson

Social Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Social injustice in Oliver Twist
Ethnicity in Burmese Days by Orwell
Torture and injustice in Night by Elie Wiesel
Vanity Fair - the culture of the 19th century according to Thackeray
The portrayal of the Civil Western Society in Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
The role of women in society in the 18th Century according to Jane Austen
Escape from society and its rules in Into the Wild by John Krakauer
The place of women in the society in Hamlet
Social status of women in the 17th century portrayed by Jane Austen in Emma
The wrongs of the modern society in Fight Club by Palahniuk

War and Peace Topics for Literary Analysis Essay

The portrayal of war and violence in the poems of Stephen Crane
Literary works during WWI
War setting in Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
The depiction of war in Homer’s plays
Toni Morrison’s views on the civil war
The war between demons and angels in Paradise Lost
War in the Mother Courage and Her Child by Bertolt Brecht
The portrayal of war and peace by George Orwell
Concept of war in A Fable by Faulkner
Steinbeck’s presentation of injustice in The Grapes of Wrath

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Movies

Comparison between the book and film “Sense and Sensibility.”
The portrayal of women in the “Little Women.”
Imitation of society and class in “The Great Gatsby.”
The ideas of love and trust in “Can You Ever Forgive Me?”
The good and evil in “A Wrinkle in Time.”
Feminity in Sense and Sensibility
The role of Saruman and Gandalf
Spirituality and religion in “Lord of the Flies.”
Oskar’s struggle to find a sense of home in “The Tin Drum.”
Jealousy and male pride in “The Dead.”

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for the Subject of Race

“Waiting for the Barbarians” by J.M. Coetzee
Race and Injustice in Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird
Race and fellowship in Melville’s Moby Dick
“Under The Feet Of Jesus”
Description of culture and tradition in “Girl” by Jamaica Kincaid
Interracial relationship in Back to Life by Wendy Coakley
Bridge of Scarlet Leaves by McMorris
The Art Of Love by Hong Ying
Multiculturalism in the Captain Underpants series by Dev Pilkey
Imitation of slavery in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

General Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Focalization techniques in When I Lay Dying
Historical background of Duma’s Novels
The use of imagery in Walt Whitman’s works
Male and female characters in Beowulf
Character analysis of Emmy in Vanity Fair
Character analysis of Rebeca in Vanity Fair
The complicated relationship between mother and daughter in Beloved
Beauty standards in The Bluest Eye
Comparison in the portrayal of death by Keats and Blake
The idea of death in Renaissance literature

1984 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Roles of genders in the novel
What role does the Ministry of Truth play in the story?
The theme of subversion of love in 1984
The importance of memory in 1984
Totalitarian society in George Orwell's 1984
Analyze the role O'Brien plays in Winston's life
An in-depth analysis of the novel 1984 by George Orwell
How is the historical background reflected in 1984?
Lack of privacy in 1984
Propaganda and totalitarianism in Orwell’s “1984”

Hamlet Literary Analysis Essay Topics

A theme of revenge in Hamlet
Explore Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia
Explore Hamlet’s mental state
Discuss Hamlet's relationship with Gertrude
Ghost in Hamlet
Was Hamlet truly mad?
Is Hamlet a villain or a hero?
How does Shakespeare present the idea of madness in Hamlet?
Is Hamlet’s love for Ophelia genuine?
Tragedies in Hamlet VS Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Discuss the development of characters during the play
Examine the role of women in Romeo and Juliet.
What is the role of history in Romeo and Juliet?
Analyze the Romeo and Juliet play
Romeo and Juliet: Fate or Free Will?
Why did Juliet warn of danger?
Rosaline in Romeo and Juliet
The love language of Romeo and Juliet
A fate analysis essay on Romeo and Juliet
The death of Romeo and Juliet

Macbeth Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Macbeth’s mental state
The role of morality in the play “Macbeth”
Describe the use of figurative language in Macbeth
The symbolism of blood in Macbeth
Applying imagery in Macbeth to advance the story
Lady Macbeth character analysis
What role did social hierarchies play in the play?
Analysis of gender roles in Macbeth
Role of women in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Is Lady Macbeth a dominant heroine?

Beowulf Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Why is Beowulf a work of Christian propaganda?
What is the main idea of the story?
The meaning of rings in Beowulf
Which of Beowulf's fights was most heroic?
How do Beowulf’s heroic qualities affect the story?
Discuss the digression's role in Beowulf
Analyze the significance of the mead hall in Beowulf.
The difference between Beowulf and Modern-Day Heroes
Beowulf’s personality traits in the epic story
Analysis of Beowulf's symbols and their importance

Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Analyze what fire is trying to symbolize.
Frankenstein: The theme of guilt
Discuss any romantic elements in “Frankenstein”
The family relationship in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Who is more human, Frankenstein or the monster?
Romantic and gothic Frankenstein elements
Sacrifices for ambitions in the novel Frankenstein
Relationship between Victor and Frankenstein
Romanticism in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
Family Values and Frankenstein

The Great Gatsby Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Discuss the novel as a cautionary tale
The meaning of wealth in the novel
What is the novel’s title meaning?
Explain how the novel demonstrates the characteristics of modernism
Explore the symbolism of the “green light” in “The Great Gatsby”
Discuss the role of women in the 1920s society as portrayed in “The Great Gatsby”
Dreams are the main theme in “The Great Gatsby”
What makes The Great Gatsby great?
The Great Gatsby: Winter Thoughts
What role does money play in Fitzgerald’s novel?

The Crucible Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Relate the Crucible to modern society
Analyze the most important theme of 'The Crucible.'
What are the dynamics of puritanism?
Examine the importance of religion in 1953 in work
The use of fear tactics in “The Crucible”
John Hale in The Crucible
Morality and The Crucible
The Crucible Critical Lens
The sinful confessions in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible

Fahrenheit 451 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

History of the Fireman in Fahrenheit 451
Discuss the roles of both nature and technology play in Fahrenheit 451
The use of Parallelism in Fahrenheit 451
Analyze the three parts of Fahrenheit 451
Discuss the dual image of fire in the novel
How relevant is Fahrenheit 451 today?
The role of Clarisse McClellan in “Fahrenheit 451”
Analyze Mildred Montag
Discuss the usage of literary quotes in Fahrenheit 451
Examine the novel's main title

Literary Analysis Essay Topics For Othello

Examine the portrayal of women in ‘Othello’
A true reason for Othello's demise
Consider Othello’s suicide
The real motives of Iago in Othello
Women's roles in Shakespeare’s Othello and Hamlet
Gender roles and racism in “Othello”
Discuss Othello's relationship
Analysis of The Film “Othello” By Oliver Parker
Explore themes of love and betrayal within Shakespeare's work of literature, “Othello”
How was Emilia treated by the men in the play “Othello”?

Lord of The Flies Literary Analysis Essay Topics

The symbolism of the conch shell and its significance in the novel
Analyze the themes of civilization versus savagery in “Lord of the Flies”
Explore the character development of Ralph and Jack in the story
Discuss the role of fear and the “beast” in the boys' descent into chaos
The portrayal of innate human nature and its consequences on the deserted island
Analyze the role of Piggy and his glasses as symbols of knowledge and reason
Analyze the use of irony in the story and its implications for the characters
Discuss the themes of power and leadership in the struggle for dominance
Examine the relationship between the boys' names and their personalities
The role of the island's setting in shaping the events and characters of the story

Literary Analysis Essay Topics For The Catcher In The Rye

Analyze the novel from the perspective of Bildungsroman
Analyze literary devices used in “The Catcher in the Rye”
Discuss the theme of death in the novel
Analyze the theme of self-discovery from the novel
Describe the story's topic of loneliness
Analyze growing up in the novel
Why does Holden love the Museum of Natural History?
The Role of Dialogue in The Catcher in the Rye
Describe the novel's portrayal of phoniness and naivety
Describe the character of Holden

Interesting Literary Analysis Essay Topics

War, existentialism, and love in “A Farewell to Arms”
Sense of Sin in The Scarlet Letter
Analyze the use of biblical allusions and religious symbolism in William Golding's novels
Analyze the symbolism of the “white whale” in Melville's work of literature, “Moby-Dick”
Lies and deceit in “The Godfather”
Analyze the portrayal of fear and the human psyche in William Golding's novels
The symbols used to describe nature by William Wordsworth
Comparison between urban and rural settings of nature in the dystopia of Huxley
Decay and revival in post-apocalyptic novels
A religious and spiritual journey in “Jude the Obscure”

Now that you have the liberty to choose from a wide range of literary analysis example topics, you could use some help on how to opt for a good topic.

To select a good and worthy topic for your literary analysis essay, follow the tips provided below:

Always go for an interesting topic for an engaging piece of paper
Look for an idea with available research material to support your analysis
Ensure your topic allows for an in-depth analysis rather than a surface-level summary
Choose an idea that challenges you to think critically and make meaningful connections
Avoid overly broad topics; instead, focus on a specific aspect or element of the work.
Choose an idea that best reflects your stance on the chosen work.
Analyze the topic deeply before you start writing about it
Balance personal interest with the potential appeal to your target audience
Make sure that the theme of the work is visible in your essay topic

Here are some tips for you to pen down a compelling literary analysis essay!

Essay writing is an essential part of academics. Students always require some tips and tricks to draft perfect essays and score good grades.

To make your literary analysis essay impeccable, follow the tips provided below:

Thoroughly read the chosen literary work
Identify the main themes, settings, and characters
Understand the purpose of the work
Pay attention to the tools and techniques used by the author to deliver the message
Pick an interesting literary analytical essay topic for your essay.
To write an analytical essay effectively, draft a perfect literary analysis essay outline
Develop a strong thesis statement
Craft strong topic sentences to guide and structure your analysis effectively
Prove and support all your statements using phrases and quotes from work
Write your literary essay from the third-person perspective
Write in the present tense
Avoid writing a plot summary of the work
Use multiple literary terms to write your essay professionally
Always cite properly

Literary Analysis Essay Example

To sum it up , writing a literary analysis essay can be extremely daunting if your analyzing abilities are weak. From selecting the right literary analysis topic to writing a conclusion for your essay, the process is lengthy.

To score well in academics, get a professional’s help drafting your essays. MyPerfectWords.com is an expert essay writing service that provides top-level assistance and guidance to students.

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450+ Literary Analysis Topics Ideas & Title Examples for Inspiration

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Finding that ideal literary analysis topic can be as complex as the literature you're studying. But fear not! Backed by our experience, we’ve gathered some good literary analysis essay topics worth your attention.

In this blog article, we will tell you how to choose a great title and drop inspirational ideas for your literature analysis. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the best literary analysis topics.

What Are Literary Analysis Topics?

Literary analysis topics are the types of analytical essay topics that deal with examining any work of literature. It might be a novel, a short story, or even literary criticism. You can select any of these topics to write a literary analysis on.

Topics for literary analysis might focus on various elements of the literature you are supposed to study. For instance, you may explore the following things:

Literary devices
Structure and style

Essentially, your task is to unleash the hidden meanings and interpret the messages conveyed in the literary works.

>> Learn more: How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay

Features of Good Literary Analysis Topics

Before we move on to the literature essay topics, let’s talk about what makes a title stand out. Good literary analysis topics should:

Be related to the literature
Provide an opportunity for further exploration of the work as a whole.
Raise interesting questions and allow for different interpretations.
Inspire readers to think about the topic in more detail.

Choosing the right topic is very important. If you need extra help from experts, rely on our team of academic professionals. Say ‘ do my essay for me ’ and get an authentic essay crafted in line with your needs.

How to Choose a Literary Analysis Topic?

Are you staring at a blank page and don’t even know what literary analysis essay topic to choose? We know that feeling. It can be as challenging as finding a perfect rhyme in a sonnet, but no worries! Below we've got some easy steps to help you select a great literary analysis topic:

Read and reflect Start by immersing yourself in the text. As you read, keep an eye on themes, characters, and symbols that catch your attention.
Ask questions This is where your inner Sherlock should come out! Question everything about the book. Why does a character behave a certain way? What's the significance of that recurring symbol? These queries are the seeds of your literary analysis.
Find connections Look for links in the text – between characters, themes, or even the historical context. These connections often make for a compelling literary analysis essay title example.
Keep it focused Remember, you're writing an essay , not a book! So, zoom in. Instead of tackling a broad topic like "Imagery in To Kill a Mockingbird," focus on something more specific, like "The use of bird imagery in To Kill a Mockingbird."
Find a new angle If you're choosing a popular book, find a fresh angle. Instead of going with the crowd, create your own path. A unique perspective will make your analysis stand out.

Powered up by these guidelines, you are sure to find an excellent literary analysis essay idea. Now, let’s see what literary analysis titles and writing prompts we have prepared for you.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics List

If you are not sure how to get started, look at the list of essay titles below. Here, we’ve selected top literary essay topics and prompts to kickstart your journey into literature. Let’s begin with some basic themes and literary elements:

Symbolism in Emily Dickinson's poetry.
Women’s portrayal in Pride and Prejudice.
Orwell's use of dystopia in 1984.
Time in Slaughterhouse-Five.
Death's representation in Edgar Allan Poe’s works.
Mystery and suspense in Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series.
Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye.
Portrayal of masculinity in Hemingway's Old Man and the Sea.
Handling of grief in Joan Didion's The Year of Magical Thinking.
Solitude in Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude.
Role of supernatural elements in Macbeth.
American Dream in Fitzgerald's Great Gatsby.
Postcolonial themes in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart.
The role of setting in A Tale of Two Cities.
Juxtaposition of civilization and savagery in Golding's Lord of the Flies.

Good Literary Analysis Essay Topics

If you're searching for that spark of inspiration, look no further. Choose a title idea from the collection of literary analysis essay prompts we added below:

Jane Austen's social satire in Sense and Sensibility.
Use of stream-of-consciousness in Virginia Woolf's Mrs Dalloway.
Survival in Yann Martel's Life of Pi.
Love in Gustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary.
Illusion versus reality in Tennessee Williams' A Streetcar Named Desire.
Ambition's consequences in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
Power in George Orwell's Animal Farm.
Role of nature in Jack London's Call of the Wild.
Innocence in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.
J.D. Salinger's use of first-person narrative in Catcher in the Rye.
Conflict of individual versus society in Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451.
Isolation in Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis.
Friendship in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men.
Social class in Charles Dickens' Great Expectations.
Gender roles in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women.

Interesting Literary Analysis Topics

Are you looking for something more mind-blowing? Consider these interesting literary analysis essay topics ideas to shake things up a bit:

Irony in Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Satire in Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels.
Perspective shifts in William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying.
Justice in Harper Lee's Go Set a Watchman .
Power dynamics in Robert Penn Warren's All the King's Men.
Fear in Stephen King's The Shining.
Identity crisis in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar.
Spiritual growth in Hermann Hesse's Siddhartha.
Betrayal in Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go.
Symbolism in Toni Morrison's Beloved.
Freedom in Aldous Huxley's Brave New World.
Class struggle in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
Portrayal of war in Joseph Heller's Catch-22.
Obsession in Oscar Wilde's Picture of Dorian Gray .
Romanticism in J.M Barrie's Peter Pan.

Unique Literary Analysis Essay Topics

When it comes to a literary analysis paper, standing out from the crowd can make all the difference. If you're looking to bring a touch of uniqueness to your writing, consider one of these these distinctive literary analysis prompts:

Magical realism in Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude.
Portrayal of rebellion in Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 .
Maternal relationships in Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club.
Existentialism in Albert Camus' The Stranger.
Deceit in Arthur Miller's The Crucible.
Quest for identity in Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man.
Treatment of time in Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five.
Pride in Sophocles' Antigone.
Role of memory in Toni Morrison's Beloved.
Perspective and truth in Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner.
Portrayal of destiny in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
Madness in Charlotte Perkins Gilman's The Yellow Wallpaper.
Courage and survival in Markus Zusak's The Book Thief.
Role of society in George Orwell's 1984 .
Youth and age in J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye .

Best Literature Essay Topics

Are you ready to take your analysis to the next level? Take a look at these top-notch literary topics for essays, each one carefully crafted for an A+ analysis essay :

Challenging societal norms in Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House.
Portrayal of love in Pablo Neruda's poetry.
Loss and grief in Joan Didion's The Year of Magical Thinking.
Paradox in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest.
Representation of animals in Jack London's The Call of the Wild.
Disillusionment in F. Scott Fitzgerald's Tender is the Night.
Trauma and healing in Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns.
Use of language in James Joyce's Ulysses.
Quest for identity in Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God.
Portrayal of family in August Wilson's Fences.
Loyalty in Homer's Iliad .
Portrayal of survival in Cormac McCarthy's The Road.
Duality in Robert Louis Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Isolation in Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot.
Influence of society in Jane Austen's Mansfield Park.

Easy Literary Analysis Title Examples

If you are a novice or prefer simple literary analysis essay ideas, this list is for you.

Uncovering themes in To Kill a Mockingbird.
The symbolism in Lord of the Flies.
Understanding character development in Great Expectations.
Love and relationships in Pride and Prejudice.
The role of setting in Wuthering Heights.
Morality in Moby Dick.
Exploring imagery in The Great Gatsby .
Power dynamics in Animal Farm.
Social critique in Brave New World.
Conflict in Romeo and Juliet .
Identity and culture in The Namesake.
Supernatural elements in Macbeth .
The quest for freedom in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Aging and time in The Old Man and the Sea.
Survival in Life of Pi.

Topics for Literary Analysis in Different Genre

Exploring different genres can add a whole new dimension to your literary analysis. Whether it's the captivating world-building of fantasy or the futuristic visions of science fiction, each genre offers a bunch of literary analysis ideas for any taste. Check out the following literary analysis essay topics sorted by genre:

Utopian ideals in H.G. Wells' The Time Machine.
Symbols and motifs in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.
Suspense in Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None.
Love in Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook.
Representation of war in Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth.
Humanity in Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
Courage in C.S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Justice in Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series.
Conflict in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
Time in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series.
Portrayal of technology in William Gibson's Neuromancer.
Good versus evil in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
Clues in Edgar Allan Poe's The Murders in the Rue Morgue.
Portrayal of passion in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.
Use of historical detail in Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall.

American Literature Essay Topics

American literature has produced some of the most iconic works in history. Take a glance at these essay topics for American literature analysis essay topics to get motivated:

Racial tensions in Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Transcendentalism in Walden.
Role of women in The Scarlet Letter .
Slavery and freedom in Beloved.
The meaning of home in Langston Hughes' poetry.
Masculinity and honor in Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises.
Individualism in On the Road.
Illusion versus reality in Death of a Salesman.
Navigating adolescence in The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
Tragic hero in A Streetcar Named Desire.
Consequences of power in The Crucible .
Love and loss in The Fault in Our Stars.
Identity in Invisible Man.
Nature and the self in Leaves of Grass.
Religion and faith in The Poisonwood Bible.

English Literature Essay Topics

If you are a British literature enthusiast, don’t skip this list. Below, we have collected the most trending literary analysis title examples in English literature:

Class struggle in Dickens' Oliver Twist.
Mysticism in Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes.
Misogyny in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles.
Role of weather in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.
Satire of Victorian Era in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest.
Subversion of romance in Jane Austen's Emma.
Landscape and memory in Thomas Hardy's Far from the Madding Crowd.
War and its effects in Erich Maria Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front.
Power and corruption in George Orwell's Animal Farm.
Maturation in Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre .
Religious doubt in Graham Greene's The End of the Affair.
Time and consciousness in Virginia Woolf's To the Lighthouse.
Subconscious in D.H. Lawrence's Sons and Lovers.
Rebellion against society in Anthony Burgess' A Clockwork Orange.

Literary Analysis Topics for Students

We've carefully curated literary analysis essay topics suitable for students at different levels of education. From high school to college, there's something for everyone. We've categorized these topics for a literary analysis essay according to academic level to help you find what fits your needs best. Are you ready to dive in? Get prepared to discover literary analysis title ideas that will make your writing process an absolute pleasure.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Middle School Students

Understanding friendship in The Outsiders.
Lessons about tolerance in Wonder.
Courage and bravery in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
The importance of individuality in A Wrinkle in Time.
Family and identity in The Giver.
The theme of adventure in Treasure Island.
Life lessons in Charlotte’s Web.
Overcoming obstacles in Bridge to Terabithia.
The impact of rumors in The Watsons Go to Birmingham.
Symbolism in Tuck Everlasting.
The significance of heritage in Esperanza Rising.
Power of persistence in Hatchet.
Examining the hero's journey in Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief.
Struggles with fairness in The Westing Game.
The role of honesty in The Secret Garden.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for High School Students

Tragic love in Romeo and Juliet.
Prejudice and racism in To Kill a Mockingbird.
The dangers of ambition in Macbeth.
The importance of friendship in The Outsiders.
Symbolism in The Great Gatsby.
Coming of age in The Catcher in the Rye.
Man versus nature in Moby Dick.
Power and corruption in Animal Farm.
Morality in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
The impact of war in All Quiet on the Western Front.
Human nature in Lord of the Flies.
The role of the American dream in Death of a Salesman.
Heroism in Beowulf.
Innocence and experience in Catch-22.
Dystopian society in Fahrenheit 451.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

Irony and satire in Pride and Prejudice.
Freedom in A Doll's House.
Role of madness in Hamlet.
Colonialism and its impacts in Heart of Darkness.
Alienation and isolation in The Metamorphosis.
Tragedy and fate in Oedipus Rex.
Exploring human consciousness in Mrs. Dalloway.
Modernism in Ulysses.
Language and power in 1984.
Identity and society in Invisible Man.
Existentialism in Waiting for Godot.
Feminism and gender roles in The Yellow Wallpaper.
Justice and judgment in Crime and Punishment.
The influence of society on individuals in A Streetcar Named Desire.
Role of memory in Remembrance of Things Past.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics in Poetry

Poetry has a unique way of touching our hearts and minds. Poem analysis can reveal hidden meanings behind the verses. If you're searching for literary analysis essay topics with a focus on poetry, check out some pointers in the sections below.

Romeo and Juliet Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Fate and destiny in Romeo and Juliet.
Masculinity and its influence on the characters' actions.
The impact of family feuds on individual choices in Romeo and Juliet.
Concept of time in Romeo and Juliet.
Understanding love at first sight through Romeo and Juliet.
The juxtaposition of love and violence in the play.
Secret identities and deception in Romeo and Juliet.
The influence of peer pressure on the events of Romeo and Juliet.
Contrasting views of love: Exploring the perspectives of Romeo, Juliet, and other characters.
Dreams and omens in Romeo and Juliet.

Hamlet Literary Analysis Essay Topics Ideas

Hamlet's madness: Genuine condition or clever ruse?
Revenge and its destructive consequences.
Role of women: Analyzing the characters of Gertrude and Ophelia.
Appearance versus reality: The dichotomy of disguise and deceit.
Hamlet's soliloquies: A window into his psyche and moral dilemmas.
The tragic flaw of Hamlet.
The ghost of King Hamlet: Its role and significance.
Corruption and decay in Hamlet's kingdom.
Father-son relationships in Hamlet.
Morality and ethical decision-making in Hamlet.

Macbeth Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Supernatural elements in Macbeth.
Moral decline of Macbeth throughout the play.
Lady Macbeth's role in Macbeth's ambition and actions.
Guilt and its consequences in Macbeth.
The power of prophecy and its impact on Macbeth's decisions.
Role of sleep and sleeplessness in the play.
The symbolism of blood in Macbeth.
Disorder and chaos in Macbeth.
The transformation of Lady Macbeth's character over the course of the play.
The portrayal of kingship and tyranny in Macbeth.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics Ideas & Prompts

Still can’t find a topic? Scroll down to spot more fantastic literary analysis writing prompts and ideas, categorized by popular works. Whether you're analyzing character development, theme, or narrative style, you will definitely recognize some good literary analysis topics ideas.

Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Role of nature in shaping the characters of Frankenstein.
Dangers of unchecked ambition in Frankenstein.
Impact of isolation on Victor Frankenstein and his creature.
Women in Frankenstein's world.
Creator and creation in Frankenstein.
Creature’s desire for companionship.
Frankenstein as a critique of enlightenment ideals.
Concept of 'otherness' in Frankenstein.
Knowledge and ignorance in Frankenstein.
Comparing Victor Frankenstein and his creature.

Beowulf Literary Analysis Essay Prompts

Christian and pagan elements in Beowulf.
Lineage and ancestry in Beowulf.
The symbolism of monsters in Beowulf.
The representation of kingship in Beowulf.
Fame and reputation.
Treasure and gift-giving in Beowulf.
Loyalty in the world of Beowulf.
Good versus evil in Beowulf.
Beowulf's three battles: A comparative analysis.

The Great Gatsby Literary Analysis Topics

Destructive power of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby.
Social classes in The Great Gatsby.
Motif of the 'green light' in The Great Gatsby.
Illusion versus reality in The Great Gatsby.
Time and the past in The Great Gatsby.
The role of geography and setting.
The portrayal of love and desire.
Significance of Gatsby's parties in the novel.
Symbolism of the 'Valley of Ashes' in The Great Gatsby.
Nick Carraway as an unreliable narrator.

Fahrenheit 451 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Censorship and its impact on society in Fahrenheit 451.
Technology in Fahrenheit 451's dystopian society.
Symbolism of fire.
Motif of mirrors in Fahrenheit 451.
Individuality versus conformity in Fahrenheit 451.
Portrayal of reading and books in Fahrenheit 451.
Mechanical hound and its role.
The impact of isolation and disconnection in Fahrenheit 451.
Happiness and fulfillment represented in the book.
Symbolism of the phoenix in Fahrenheit 451.

Othello Literary Analysis Essay Topics

The impact of jealousy on the characters of Othello.
Race and racism in Othello.
Manipulation and its role in this play.
Representation of women in Othello.
Appearance versus reality in Othello.
Reputation and honor in this play.
Impact of insecurities on the character of Othello.
Role Desdemona's handkerchief plays.
Motif of animals in Othello.
Friendship and betrayal as represented in this play.

The Catcher In The Rye Literary Analysis Topics

How does Salinger represent teen angst in Catcher in the Rye?
Role of Phoebe in Holden Caulfield's life.
Analysis of Holden's perception of adulthood.
Symbolic meaning of the Museum of Natural History.
Red hunting hat as a symbol of isolation.
Salinger's portrayal of mental illness through Holden.
Relevance of the carrousel scene at the end of this novel.
Language and narrative style in Catcher in the Rye.
Understanding Holden's relationships with other characters.
How does this title relate to Holden's personality and actions?

The Crucible Literary Analysis Topics

Fear and hysteria as represented in The Crucible.
Power dynamics in Salem's society.
John Proctor's character development throughout this play.
Abigail Williams' motivations.
Analysis of Arthur Miller's use of historical events.
Symbolism of the witch trials.
Religion and how it is represented in The Crucible.
Comparing the characters: Elizabeth Proctor vs. Abigail Williams.
Suspicion and paranoia in this play.
Relevance of The Crucible in today's society.

1984 Literary Essay Topics

George Orwell's depiction of totalitarianism.
Concept of Newspeak.
Surveillance and control in 1984.
Winston's rebellion against the Party.
Symbolism of the glass paperweight.
Analysis of the Party's manipulation of history.
Role of Big Brother in this novel.
ulia's character and her contrast to Winston.
Significance of Room 101.
Doublethink and its influence on citizens' mentality.

The Story of an Hour Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Mrs. Mallard's freedom and confinement.
Irony in The Story of an Hour.
Theme of time in this short story.
Heart and it symbolism.
Portrayal of marriage in The Story of an Hour.
Significance of the open window.
Railroad and its role in this story.
How does Mrs. Mallard's reaction reflect societal norms?
Analysis of Louise's transformation.
Representation of life and death.

The Cask of Amontillado Literary Analysis Ideas

Revenge in The Cask of Amontillado.
Significance of setting in this story.
Symbolism of the cask.
Montresor as an unreliable narrator.
Concept of pride in this story.
Foreshadowing in The Cask of Amontillado.
Contrast between Montresor and Fortunato.
Motif of disguise and deception.
Exploring the concept of madness.
How does the catacomb setting contribute to the story's tone?

Pride and Prejudice Literary Analysis Prompts

First impressions in Pride and Prejudice.
Jane Austen's portrayal of marriage and social status.
The theme of pride in this novel.
Understanding the character of Mr. Darcy.
Significance of the title in understanding this novel.
Contrasting characters of Elizabeth and Jane.
Letters and their role in Pride and Prejudice.
Social hierarchy and class in this novel.
Theme of family in Pride and Prejudice.
Lydia and her impact on the plot.

Kafka’s Metamorphosis Literary Analysis Title Examples

Exploring Gregor Samsa's transformation.
Kafka’s portrayal of family relationships.
Symbolism of the apple in Metamorphosis.
How does Kafka depict the human condition?
Understanding Grete's role in this story.
Kafka's commentary on work and responsibility.
Gregor's room as a symbol of his inner state.
Role of dehumanization in Metamorphosis.
Kafka's style in conveying existentialist themes.
Understanding the character of Mr. Samsa.

Topics for Literary Analysis of The Odyssey

Role of hospitality in ancient Greek society.
Examination of Odysseus as a hero.
Vengeance in The Odyssey.
Significance of the Underworld.
Role of gods and goddesses in the plot.
Women characters in The Odyssey.
Understanding Telemachus' character arc.
Significance of Ithaca in Odysseus’ journey.
Analysis of deception.
Circe: Character analysis .

The Old Man and the Sea Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Perseverance in Hemingway's novel.
Analyzing Santiago's relationship with the sea.
Significance of Santiago's dreams about lions.
Hemingway's portrayal of friendship and camaraderie.
Symbolism of the marlin.
The sea and its significance in Santiago's journey.
Heroism as depicted in this novel.
Role of nature and its depiction.
Santiago's hand injury and its symbolic meaning.
Defeat and its role in shaping Santiago’s character.

Jane Eyre Literary Analysis Topics

Gothic elements in Jane Eyre.
Concept of the madwoman in the attic.
Religion in Jane's life and development.
Portrayal of women's independence in the novel.
Significance of Thornfield Hall.
Motif of fire and ice in Jane Eyre.
Examining the character of Mr. Rochester.
Understanding the role of Adele in this novel.
Analyzing forgiveness.
Jane’s quest for self-identity and belonging.

The Scarlet Letter Literary Topics for Essays

Sin and guilt and how they are depicted.
Symbolism of the scarlet letter 'A'.
Understanding Hester Prynne's character development.
Role of Pearl as a symbol.
Exploration of hypocrisy.
Examination of the Puritan society.
Roger Chillingworth as a character.
Role of secrets and hidden identities.
Significance of the forest and the town.
Portrayal of women in The Scarlet Letter.

Of Mice and Men Literary Analysis Essay Ideas

Lennie's dream and its impact on this story.
How does Steinbeck present George and Lennie's friendship?
Decoding symbolism in Of Mice and Men.
Loneliness in this novel.
Analyzing Steinbeck's portrayal of the American Dream.
Unraveling Curley's wife's character.
A critical look at attitudes towards women.
Analysis of power dynamics in Of Mice and Men.
Steinbeck’s depiction of life during the Great Depression.
Understanding the tragic end: Was there an alternative?

Lord of the Flies Literary Analysis Titles

Loss of innocence in Lord of the Flies.
Power struggle: Analyzing leadership styles of Jack and Ralph.
Deconstructing the symbol of 'beast' in the novel.
Golding’s portrayal of the thin veneer of civilization.
Survival instincts in Lord of the Flies.
Motif of the conch shell in this novel.
Exploring fear and its implications.
Golding's view on human nature.
A critical look at the novel's ending.
Understanding the novel’s allegorical elements.

To Kill a Mockingbird Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Racial injustice in this novel.
How does Scout's perspective shape the narrative?
Harper Lee's portrayal of small-town life in the South.
Moral education in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Understanding Boo Radley's impact on this story.
Symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Analysis of Atticus Finch's parenting style.
Class structure in Maycomb County.
Gender roles in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Bravery in To Kill a Mockingbird.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics & Title Ideas by Themes

Are you interested in how the good is represented in literature. Or, want to explore the dark side of human nature? No matter what theme you’re analyzing, these literary analysis topics will surely help you get your gears turning.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on Education

Exploring education's impact in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Jane Eyre's education and its effects on her life.
Learning and wisdom in J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye.
Views on education in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
Education’s role in the development of Huck Finn.
Value of practical knowledge in Moby-Dick.
Understanding Malvolio’s wisdom in Twelfth Night.
How The Great Gatsby criticizes education in the 1920s.
Education as liberation in Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.
Women's education in Pride and Prejudice.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on Religion

Understanding religious allegory in Lord of the Flies.
Christian symbolism in The Chronicles of Narnia.
Religion’s impact on communities in The Poisonwood Bible.
Religious imagery in William Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience.
Criticism of the church in The Canterbury Tales.
Dystopian views of religion in Brave New World.
How The Scarlet Letter deals with religion and sin.
Portrayal of religious hypocrisy in Huckleberry Finn.
Religious aspects in Paradise Lost.
Comparing religious symbolism in Moby Dick and Billy Budd.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on Race

Discussing racial prejudices in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Understanding racial disparities in The Color Purple.
Representation of race in Othello.
Racial discrimination in Nella Larsen's Passing.
Concept of race in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Racial dynamics in Go Set a Watchman.
Racial identity in The Bluest Eye.
Race and identity in Invisible Man.
Racial politics in James Baldwin's Go Tell It On The Mountain.
Racial tensions in Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun.

War and Peace Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Understanding war's impact in All Quiet on the Western Front.
Depiction of warfare in War and Peace.
Post-war society in The Sun Also Rises.
Effects of war on Mrs. Dalloway.
Concept of peace in A Separate Peace.
Interpreting war in Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls.
Post-war life in The Catcher in the Rye.
Pacifist messages in Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five.
Consequences of war in A Farewell to Arms.
Portrayal of war in The Red Badge of Courage.

Literary Analysis Topics on Justice and Judgment

Concept of justice in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird.
Justice and injustice in Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations.
Judgment in Jane Austen’s Emma.
Analyzing justice in George Orwell's 1984.
Exploring judgment in Pride and Prejudice.
Justice in A Tale of Two Cities.
Critique of justice in William Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure.
Judgment in Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter.
Justice in Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables.
Portrayal of justice in The Merchant of Venice.

Literary Analysis Ideas About Good and Evil

Good and evil in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Good vs evil in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
Struggle between good and evil in Moby-Dick.
Dichotomy of good and evil in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Conflict of good and evil in The Lord of the Rings.
Good and evil in Golding's Lord of the Flies.
Representation of good and evil in Heart of Darkness.
Exploration of good and evil in The Picture of Dorian Gray.
How Bram Stoker’s Dracula deals with good and evil.
Examining the balance of good and evil in Macbeth.

Bottom Line on Literary Analysis Essay Topics

When you're dealing with a literary analysis paper, it can be overwhelming to come up with unique topics. The trick is finding the perfect topic that you will be excited to work with. These literary analysis ideas should help get you started in the right direction. From time-tested classics to more modern works, we focused on different themes so you can pick the one you like.

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What Does Analysis Mean?

While students may have written essays with different purposes in the past, a literary analysis essay asks them to take a different approach. When students engage in literary analysis, they explore the text deeply and in detail. They are not simply summarizing the plot or retelling the story. Instead, they are looking at the how and why of the text, delving into its deeper meaning.

Students must learn how to go beyond simple surface-level analysis and move towards a more complex understanding of the text. This can be achieved by asking the right questions, such as:

How does the author use literary devices?
What is the author’s purpose in writing this text?
What are the underlying themes in the text?
What does the text reveal about the author’s point of view?

Answering these questions can help students move beyond simply understanding a text to being able to analyze it effectively.

Types of Literary Analysis Essays

There are three common types of literary analysis essays that students may be asked to write. Each has its own unique purpose and focus.

Character Analysis

In a character analysis, students are asked to analyze a character from a literary work. This could be a protagonist, an antagonist, or a minor character. This type of essay aims to help students understand the role that characters play in a work of literature. To do this effectively, students must pay close attention to how the author develops the character throughout the text.

For example, if a student were asked to write a character analysis of Jay Gatsby from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, they would need to consider how Gatsby is developed throughout the novel. This might involve looking at how Fitzgerald uses symbolism, narration, and dialogue to reveal things about Gatsby’s character.

Theme Analysis

A theme analysis essay focuses on a work of literature’s central theme. The purpose of this type of essay is to help students understand the theme’s role in the work as a whole. To do this effectively, students need to identify the work’s major themes and understand how they are developed throughout the course of the text.

For example, if students were asked to write a theme analysis of J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, they might identify the book’s central themes of teenage angst and rebellion. They would then need to examine how these themes are developed throughout the course of the novel.

Symbolism Analysis

A symbolism analysis essay focuses on how a work of literature uses symbols to represent ideas or themes. The purpose of this type of essay is to help students understand how symbols are used to convey ideas and messages in a work of literature. To do this effectively, students need to be able to identify the work’s major symbols and understand their significance.

For example, suppose a student was asked to write a symbolism analysis of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. In that case, they might examine the ways in which the green light, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, and the valley of ashes function as symbols in the novel.

How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay

When writing a literary analysis essay, it is important to be sure that you are clear about your thesis statement. Your thesis statement is the main point of your essay and should be concise and easy to understand. Some good examples of thesis statements for literary analysis essays include:

“In The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger uses symbols to represent the teenage experience.”

“Fitzgerald’s use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby reveals the theme of the corruption of the American dream.”

Once you have your thesis statement, you will need to support it with evidence from the text. This could be done through the use of quotes, examples, or other types of evidence. Be sure that you are clear on what your evidence is and how it supports your thesis.

Another important aspect of writing a literary analysis essay is organization. Your essay should be well-organized and flow smoothly from point to point. Each body paragraph should have a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph and supporting evidence to back it up. Be sure to transition smoothly between paragraphs to make your essay easy to follow.

Finally, the conclusion of your essay should sum up the main points of your argument and leave the reader with a clear understanding of your position. A good conclusion will also restate your thesis in different words than how it was stated in your introduction.

120 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Students stuck on a topic for their essay can use any of these 120 literary analysis essay topics to get inspired.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Symbolism

How does the author use symbols to represent ideas in the text?
What is the significance of the book’s title?
How do the book’s characters embody the themes of the text?
What objects or images appear throughout the book, and what do they symbolize?
How does the author use color to convey ideas in the text?
What is the significance of the book’s setting?
What does the narrator’s point of view reveal about the characters and events in the text?
How does the author use foreshadowing to build suspense in the story?
What motifs appear in the text, and what do they symbolize?
How does the author’s use of irony contribute to the text’s overall theme?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Theme

What is the book’s central theme? Why?
How does the author explore the book’s main theme?
What messages does the author convey about the book’s main theme?
How does the author develop the book’s secondary themes?
What messages does the author convey about the book’s secondary themes?
How does the author’s choice of words contribute to the development of the theme in the text?
What characters embody the book’s central themes, and how do they represent them?
How does the author’s use of figurative language contribute to developing a theme in the text?
What events in the book support the main theme, and how do they contribute to its development?
How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in the text?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Character

How do the book’s characters develop throughout the story?
How do the book’s characters contribute to the development of the plot?
How does the author use dialogue to reveal information about the book’s characters?
What physical traits do the book’s characters possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
What psychological traits do the book’s characters possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
How do the book’s characters interact with each other, and what does this reveal about them?
What motivates the book’s characters, and how does this contribute to the development of the plot?
How does the author’s use of point of view contribute to the development of the book’s characters?
What conflicts do the book’s characters face, and how do they resolve them?
How do the book’s characters change by the end of the story, and what does this reveal about them?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Plot

What is the book’s main plot?
How does the author develop the book’s main plot?
What messages does the author convey about the book’s main plot?
How does the author develop the book’s secondary plots?
What messages does the author convey about the book’s secondary plots?
How does the author’s choice of words contribute to the development of the book’s plot?
What events in the book support the main plot, and how do they contribute to its development?
How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the book’s plot?
How does the author’s use of figurative language contribute to the development of the book’s plot?
What characters embody the book’s main plot, and how do they represent it?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Setting

How would a different setting affect the book’s plot?
How does the book’s setting contribute to the development of its characters?
What messages does the author convey about the book’s setting?
How does the author use the book’s setting to develop the book’s mood?
How do events in the book make the setting more or less real?
How does the author’s use of description contribute to the development of the book’s setting?
What physical traits does the book’s setting possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
What psychological traits does the book’s setting possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
How does the author use the book’s setting to develop the book’s theme?
What symbols are present in the book’s setting, and what do they represent?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About American Classic Literature

Compare and contrast the American Dream as it is portrayed in The Great Gatsby and Death of a Salesman.
How does F. Scott Fitzgerald’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in The Great Gatsby?
What similarities and differences exist between the characters in The Catcher in the Rye and To Kill a Mockingbird?
In what ways does Harper Lee’s use of first-person point of view contribute to the development of Atticus Finch’s character?
How does J.D. Salinger’s use of figurative language contribute to the development of Holden Caulfield’s character?
What messages about society does Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman convey?
How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in All My Sons?
What messages about family does Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie convey?
What messages about love and relationships does Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf convey?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About British Literature

How does Shakespeare’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in Romeo and Juliet?
What messages about family does William Golding’s Lord of the Flies convey?
What messages about love and relationships does D.H. Lawrence’s Sons and Lovers convey?
How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in Women in Love?
What messages about society does George Orwell’s Animal Farm convey?

Literary Analysis Topics About Poetry

How does the author’s choice of words contribute to the development of the theme in a particular poem?
What messages about society does the poem convey?
How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in the poem?
What clues in the poem suggest the poet had a troubled life?
What physical traits does the poem’s speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the poem’s development?
What psychological traits does the poem’s speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the development of the poem?
How would a different choice of words contribute to the development of the poem’s theme?
What different images does the author use in the poem, and how do they contribute to its development?
Compare and contrast the author’s use of imagery in two different poems.
How does the author’s use of sound contribute to the development of the poem?

Literary Analysis Topics About Theater

Examine how the playwright’s use of stage directions contributes to character development in the play.
How does the playwright’s use of dialogue contribute to the development of the theme in the play?
What messages about love and relationships does the play convey?
How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in the play?
What messages about family does the playwright’s use of figurative language convey?
How does the author’s use of point of view contribute to the development of the play’s characters?
In what ways does the playwright’s use of setting contribute to the development of the play’s plot?
What messages about society does the play convey?
How would a change in the play’s setting contribute to its development?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About YA Novels

Explore the main differences between the book and its film adaptation.
What messages about love and relationships does the novel convey?
Examine the use of adolescent slang in the novel and its effects on the development of theme.
Argue for or against including a particular novel in high school curriculums.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Speeches

Compare and contrast Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech with Malcolm X’s “The Ballot or the Bullet
Explore the symbolism in Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address.”
Analyze the rhetoric in JFK’s “Moon Speech.”
What messages about society does Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I A Woman?” speech convey?
How does Frederick Douglass’s “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” speech contribute to his character development?
What physical traits does the speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the development of the speech?
What psychological traits does the speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the development of the speech?
How would a different choice of words contribute to the development of the speech’s theme?
What different images does the author use in the speech, and how do they contribute to its development?
Compare and contrast the author’s use of imagery in two different speeches.
Does the intensity of the rhetoric in the speech contribute to its effectiveness?
How does the author’s use of sound contribute to the development of the speech?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Books Turned into Movies

Explore the themes of capitalism in Fight Club.
Discuss how The Catcher in the Rye is an autobiographical novel.
Analyze the character of Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye.
Compare and contrast the book and film versions of The Great Gatsby.
Examine the use of color in The Great Gatsby.
Explore the theme of betrayal in The Great Gatsby.
Analyze the character of Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby.
Compare and contrast the book and film versions of To Kill a Mockingbird.
Examine the use of point of view in To Kill a Mockingbird.
Analyze the character of Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Non-Fiction Books

Compare and contrast two biographies of the same person.
Analyze a section of the US Constitution.
Compare and contrast two religious texts.
Analyze the historical effects of the writings of Niccolo Machiavelli.
Compare and contrast the ideas of Karl Marx and Adam Smith.
Analyze the thoughts of Rousseau on education.
Evaluate the methods used in a self-help book.
Review a political science text.
Compare and contrast the autobiographies of two different philosophers.
Compare and contrast the claims made in two history books.

With any of these 120 literary essay topics, you’ll be able to deep-dive into the world of literature and create an impressive essay on any text you’ve read.

70 “How To” Essay Topics
130 Problem Solution Essay Topics
100 Profile Essay Topics
90 Concept Essay Topics
150 Comparison Essay Topics

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Literature Essay Examples and Topics

Essays on literature and languages usually follow stricter structural requirements than their equivalents in other disciplines. You have to show that you are a capable writer that knows the English language well and can create engaging passages.

At the very least, your essay should consist of three parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Each of these blocks has to follow exact requirements with regards to contents.

For example, the conclusion cannot add new information to the essay. You should learn and understand the basic structural guidelines if you want to submit an excellent paper.

The introduction is where you describe the topic to the reader to provide some context. As was mentioned above, you should establish the position you are going to promote.

This part ends in a thesis statement, which explicitly describes the specific idea you are going to discuss. All of your arguments should be contained in the next part, the body. In the conclusion, you will sum up your ideas and make a closing statement that finishes your thought.

Here are some tips for writing literary essays:

You should be brief in your writing without leaving information out.
Nobody likes to read text that does not add anything of value!
The introduction and conclusion should both be one paragraph long. The body’s length may vary according to your needs.
You should begin your writing process by formulating a thesis. Each point you make has to connect to it directly.
Do not be afraid to write a lot in a literary analysis! The investigations of characters, ideas, plot, themes, and other essential components of a work can be long.

You can find language and literature extended essay topics, English literature introduction examples, literature essay examples, and other valuable samples for your essay at IvyPanda.

8984 Best Essay Examples on Literature

Beach description essay.

Subjects: Plays

The Story of an Hour Critical Analysis Essay

Subjects: American Literature
Words: 1467

Dust of Snow: Analysis & Critical Appreciation

Subjects: Poems

Pablo Neruda’s “United Fruit Company”: Poem Analysis and Summary Essay

Subjects: World Literature

The Gift of the Magi Essay: Summary & Analysis

Words: 1118

The Relationship Between Eliezer and His Father Essay

Subjects: Dramatic Literature

William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18 Analysis: Tone, Imagery, Symbolism, and More

Doctor faustus as a tragic hero essay.

Words: 1468

Imperialism in Shooting an Elephant: Symbolism & Themes

Subjects: British Literature
Words: 2481

The Necklace Literary Analysis Essay

Subjects: World Philosophy Literature
Words: 2185

Review on a Short Story “Marriage is a Private Affair”, by Chinua Achebe

Words: 1424

Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery”: Elements of the Story

Hamlet’s relationship with his mother (gertrude) – attitude towards her.

Words: 1522

W.B. Yeats: Writing Style & Poetry

“joyas voladoras” by brian doyle. summary and symbolism analysis, guy de maupassant’s “the jewelry”: summary, literary elements, and character analysis essay, “borders” short story by thomas king analysis: conflict, themes, and more, guy de maupassant: “the necklace” essay, willy loman as a tragic hero: character analysis essay, betrayal in shakespeare’s “macbeth”, “hell heaven” summary & analysis essay, moral of “the necklace” by guy de maupassant, the lottery literary analysis – summary & analytical essay.

Words: 1017

Misery – Anton Chekhov. Analysis of Summary and Themes

Mark twain’s “the lowest animal” analysis, “half a day” by naguib mahfouz, “am i blue” by alice walker: analysis & summary, feminism in “a doll’s house” by henrik ibsen.

Subjects: Family Drama
Words: 1270

William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar”

The tell-tale heart psychological analysis & critique.

Words: 2828

“Two Way to Belong in America” by Bharati Mukherjee

Words: 1128

A Critical Analysis of Hamlet’s Constant Procrastination in Shakespeare’s Hamlet

Words: 1219

“The Tiger” and “The Lamb” by William Blake Literature Analysis

Words: 1671

Satire in Parts 3-4 of Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”

Words: 1961

A Good Man Is Hard to Find: Literary Critical Analysis Essay

Subjects: Concepts in American Novels
Words: 1263

William Shakespeare and the Renaissance Period

Words: 1140

Dramatic Irony in Macbeth Essay

Words: 2013

No Name Woman Analysis – Maxine Hong Kingston’s Short Story

Words: 1055

“Realism and the Novel Form” by Ian Watt, Summary

“the fate of a cockroach” by tawfiq al-hakim, how does keats explore the theme of life and art in ode on a grecian urn, essay on pride and prejudice by jane austen.

Words: 1204

King Lear Themes, Characters, & Analysis Essay

Words: 1124

The Handmaid’s Tale Literary Analysis

Words: 2158

“Popular Mechanics” by Raymond Carver Review

Victorian poetry and its characteristics.

Words: 1102

Marxist Criticism on The Lottery by Shirley Jackson Essay

Themes and symbolism in things fall apart: symbols & examples of imagery.

Words: 1618

The Importance of Literacy Essay (Critical Writing)

Tennyson’s ulysses poem essay.

Words: 1144

Robert Frost’s Writing Style Essay

Words: 1216

Dr Frankenstein & His Monster: Compare & Contrast

Words: 1465

A Doll’s House Stage Design: Set & Costumes Analysis

Words: 1880

George Orwell’s 1984: Winston and Julia’s Relationship Essay

Hamlet, laertes, fortinbras: revenge for the deaths of their fathers.

Subjects: Comparative Literature

Symbolism in the “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller

“ozymandias” by percy bysshe shelley: decay of political power, “the stronger” in the august strindberg’s play, stories of immigrants: “hard to say” by sharon morse.

Subjects: Themes in American Novels

Stanley and Blanche Relationship in A Streetcar Named Desire

Words: 1234

The Couter by Salman Rushdie

The parable of the sower analysis: themes & environment.

Words: 1331

The Cask of Amontillado

Words: 1693

Tom Ramsey in Maugham’s “The Ant and the Grasshopper”

Words: 1127

Theme and Characters of Twain’s “Advice to Youth”

August wilson’s “fences” play vs. movie comparison, “the hunchback of notre dame” by victor hugo: new historicism approach.

Words: 3887

What Is American Literature Essay

Subjects: Aspects of American Novels
Words: 1248

“Parsley” by Rita Dove. Analysis of the Poem

Exploring relationship in raymond carver’s “why don’t you dance”, critical analysis of the metamorphosis by franz kafka.

Words: 1754

Boyne’s “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” Book and Film Comparison

Subjects: Historical Literature

Symbolism and Imagery in O Captain! My Captain!

Subjects: Historical Fiction Comparison
Words: 1110

Nature in the Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Daisy buchanan: “i did love him once, but i loved you, too”.

Subjects: American Novels Writing Style
Words: 1077

Main Themes in the “Girl” by Jamaica Kincaid

Words: 1957

Symbolic Elements in Poe’s “Cask of Amontillado”

Words: 1917

Tom and Gatsby: Compare and Contrast Essay

Matsuo basho haiku analysis: the narrow road to the interior as the reflection of searching for the harmony, magical realism of “a very old man with enormous wings” by garcia marquez, the yellow wallpaper.

Words: 1720

Why Should Shakespeare Be Taught in School Essay

Words: 1068

“The Swamp Dwellers” by Wole Soyinka

Words: 1123

Tuck Everlasting: Differences Between the Book and the Film

Words: 1137

“The Cold War: A New History” by John Lewis Gaddis

Words: 1767

Blake’s The Little Girl Found and The Little Girl Lost: Analysis and Comparison

Words: 1087

Chivalry in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight – Examples & Quotes

Duffy’s the world’s wife’s take on power dynamics.

Words: 2839

“Goodbye to All That” by Joan Didion

Feminist perspective on “the yellow wallpaper”.

Words: 1099

The Downfall of Othello

Words: 1687

Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”: The Use of Allusion and Metaphors

The great gatsby reflection paper, “shame” by dick gregory: what does gregory mean by shame.

Words: 1448

The Clock as a Symbol in “The Great Gatsby”

Words: 1187

Angel in House in Woolf’s Professions for Women

This is what it means to say phoenix, arizona.

Words: 1129

Marriage in the Importance of Being Earnest: Analysis

“my mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun (sonnet 130)” the poem by william shakespeare, gertrude’s character in “hamlet” by william shakespeare.

Words: 1905

O’Connor’s “A Good Man Is Hard to Find”: Foreshadowing Analysis

Capitol and district 12 in “the hunger games” by collins.

Words: 1024

“The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin: Reading Response

Different types of love portrayed in shakespeare’s romeo and juliet term paper.

Words: 3076

Historical Parallels Between George Orwell’s 1984 and Today

Words: 3364

A Doll’s House Modernism Theme

Words: 1729

Shakespeare: Hamlet

Words: 1446

Blanche’s Lies in “A Streetcar Named Desire” by Tennessee Williams

The use of hands as a motif in shakespeare’s “macbeth”, “fiesta” a short story by junot diaz.

Words: 1171

Modernism in Eliot’s “The Hollow Men” Poem

Subjects: Modernist Literature

“Faith is a Fine Invention” by Emily Dickinson

“doctor faustus” by christopher marlowe, women, friendships, marriage in lynn nottage’s “poof”.

Subjects: Gender in Literature

Hemingway’s Code Hero in The Old Man and the Sea. Traits & Definition

Words: 1008

Elements of Modern Fiction

Eveline james joyce analysis essay, naturalism in “the open boat” by stephen crane.

Words: 1177

Gabriel Conroy’s Epiphany in “The Dead” by James Joyce

Subjects: American Novels Influences

“How to Talk to Girls at Parties” by Neil Gaiman

Essay Topics: 450+ Awesome Picks

Ever wondered about the magic behind an essay that grabs your attention and won't let go? Let's spice up your writing journey with some cool topics! Imagine exploring time travel, digging into the stories of your favorite characters, or debating the future of tech. How about pouring your heart into a letter to your dream destination or uncovering the mysteries of history? Excited to make your essays stand out? Come along as we dive into these college essay topic ideas and take your writing to the next level!

Struggling to find the perfect essay topic? EssayPro offers a plethora of choices to spark your creativity. From academic to personal, we have topics that will ignite your writing passion and help you produce exceptional essays.

How to Choose a Topic for an Essay

Selecting the right topic is like the secret sauce to crafting a standout essay, and it's surprising how many students breeze past this crucial step. Your essay's quality often hinges on the topic you choose, making it the make-or-break moment in your writing journey. Fear not, though! Our college paper writing service is here to make this process a breeze, offering some pro tips to ensure your essay topics are as remarkable as your writing.

Tap into Current Affairs: Keep your finger on the pulse of current events. Choose a topic that relates to contemporary issues or ongoing debates. Not only does this make your essay timely and relevant, but it also showcases your awareness of the world around you.
Seek Unconventional Angles: Don't be afraid to approach common topics from unconventional angles. Look for fresh perspectives or unique aspects that haven't been explored extensively. It's the unexpected twists that can turn a standard essay into something extraordinary.
Consider Personal Experiences: Reflect on your own experiences and observations. Is there a personal story or moment that connects with your essay's theme? Sharing your perspective can add authenticity and depth to your writing, making it more relatable for your audience.
Connect with Your Audience: Think about your target audience and what matters to them. Choosing a topic that resonates with your readers creates an immediate connection. Whether it's a shared interest, concern, or passion, this connection enhances the impact of your essay.
Test the Waters: Before committing to a topic, test it out. Write a brief outline or a paragraph to see how comfortable and excited you are about exploring it further. This preliminary step helps you gauge your interest and ensures you have enough material to develop a compelling essay.

Ideas for Essay by Category

In the diverse landscape of academic writing, your study area might throw various essay types your way. However, let's zero in on four common categories that could very well become your writing companions, especially as you navigate through your undergraduate coursework.

Persuasive Writing

Imagine you're on a mission to persuade others. That's the essence of persuasive essays. Here, the goal is crystal clear—to sway your reader. It's a challenge that demands not just compelling arguments but also a touch of reason. Unlike expository essays, where facts reign supreme, persuasive essay topics thrive on opinion-based writing, allowing you to craft a narrative that hinges less on specific facts and more on convincing rhetoric.

Expository Writing

Switch gears to expository essays, where facts take the lead. These essays ask you to dig into research, analyze a topic, and present a position based on factual data without adding your personal opinions. Expository essay topics become a platform for showcasing your logical thinking and navigating through scientific articles.

Descriptive Writing

Now, picture yourself creating a vivid image with words. That's what descriptive writing is all about. When working on descriptive essay topics, you'll dive into your subject, using lots of descriptive words. It could be a person, a place, an event, or even a feeling – your goal is to vividly convey it without using first-person language.

Narrative Writing

For those drawn to the allure of storytelling, narrative essays beckon. These essays aim not just to inform but to captivate by weaving a tale spun from personal experiences. Following the standard essay structure of introduction, body, and conclusion, narrative essay topics introduce characters, describe actions, and always have a central theme.

Now that we've covered these essay types, get ready for a bunch of cool essay topic ideas coming your way to spark inspiration for your next writing assignment.

Topics for Technology Essay

In today's environment, technology is the driving force. Both cultural changes and technological improvements have significantly influenced the growth of human civilization. Thus, picking good essay topics about technology will provide you with plenty of material to draw on. Let's explore some effective essay topics recommended by our custom essay writing service.

The Ethical Implications of Quantum Computing: A New Era in Information Security.
Neuromorphic Engineering: Mimicking the Human Brain in Silicon.
The Role of 5G in Revolutionizing Telemedicine and Remote Healthcare.
The Environmental Impact of Cryptocurrency Mining: Beyond Energy Consumption.
Bioinformatics and the Future of Personalized Medicine.
Blockchain and the Decentralization of Social Media Platforms.
The Potential of Swarm Robotics in Disaster Relief and Search & Rescue.
Human Augmentation and the Ethical Dilemmas of Cyborg Technology.
Advancements in Brain-Computer Interfaces: Bridging the Gap Between Mind and Machine.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting and Preventing Wildfires.
3D Printing Organs: A Revolution in Transplant Medicine.
Quantum Internet: Unbreakable Security and the Future of Communication.
The Dark Side of Smart Cities: Privacy Concerns in the Age of IoT.
Space Debris: Challenges and Solutions for Managing Earth's Orbital Junkyard.
The Intersection of Virtual Reality and Therapy: Healing Through Immersion.
The Rise of Drone Swarms: Applications and Ethical Concerns.
The Impact of 3D Holography in Education and Training.
Bioluminescent Technology: Illuminating the Path to Sustainable Lighting.
The Evolution of Self-Replicating Nanobots in Medicine and Industry.
Innovations in Sound Technology: From Bone Conduction to Sonic Weapons.
Quantum Cryptography: Unhackable Communication for the Digital Age.
The Future of Food Tech: Lab-Grown Meat and Sustainable Agriculture.
Machine Learning in Judicial Systems: Bias, Fairness, and Accountability.
Cryonics and Digital Immortality: Freezing Bodies and Uploading Consciousness.
The Holographic Universe Theory: Exploring the Nature of Reality through Technology.

Cause and Effect Essay Ideas

To write on cause and effect essay topics, you should primarily identify a situation in which an action has effects or consequences. The next step is for you to describe what happened. If you're having trouble coming up with interesting essay topics, have a look through this list.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness: How Small Acts Can Create Lasting Changes.
Silent Killers of the Ocean: The Causes and Effects of Ocean Acidification.
Echo Chambers in the Digital Age: How Online Algorithms Shape Our Beliefs and Behaviors.
From Pixels to Insomnia: How Screen Blue Light Affects Sleep Patterns.
The 'IKEA Effect': Psychological Causes and Economic Consequences of DIY Furniture Assembly.
Antibiotic Overuse: Creating Resistant Superbugs and Impacts on Human Health.
Lost in Light: How Light Pollution Affects Astronomy and Biodiversity.
The Influence of Social Media on Political Polarization: Causes and Effects.
Urban Sprawl: Causes, Consequences, and the Decline of Green Spaces.
The Domino Effect of Misinformation: From Social Media to Real-World Consequences.
The Butterfly Effect of Climate Change: Small Actions with Global Consequences.
The Psychology of Color in Marketing: How Hues Impact Consumer Choices.
The 'Joy of Missing Out' (JOMO): Causes and Effects in the Age of FOMO.
The 'Viral' Effect of Social Media Challenges: Causes and Impacts on Youth Behavior.
The High Cost of Cheap Fashion: Environmental and Ethical Consequences.
Overparenting: Causes and Effects on Child Development and Independence.
The Power of Habit: How Routines Shape Our Lives and Goals.
The 'Gig Economy' Phenomenon: Causes and Effects on Job Security.
The Paradox of Choice: How an Abundance of Options Impacts Decision-Making.
Digital Nomads: Causes and Consequences of a Remote Work Lifestyle.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Causes and Effects on Mental Well-Being.
'Helicopter Parenting': Its Origins and Effects on Children's Independence.
The Psychological Impact of Personalized Advertising: Causes and Consequences.
The Decline of Bookstores: Digitalization's Effects on Reading Habits.
The Influence of Food Advertising on Childhood Obesity: Causes and Consequences.
Perfectionism in the Digital Age: Causes and Impacts on Mental Health.
The 'Selfie Culture': Its Origins and Effects on Self-Esteem.
The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function: Causes and Consequences.
The Psychology of Hoarding: Causes and Effects on Mental Health and Relationships.
'Cancel Culture': Causes and Impacts on Free Speech and Public Figures.

Problem Solution Essay Topics

One of their strongest features is that the problem-solution essay topic has a very obvious format. You must state the issue, discuss its significance, outline your proposed fix, and justify why it is the best option. Our essay writer will help you in your writing endeavors by compiling a list of things to write about.

Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic in the Digital Age: Strategies for Connection.
Combating Fake News: Solutions for Media Literacy and Information Verification.
Overcoming the Mental Health Stigma: Promoting Open Conversations and Resources.
Sustainable Transportation: Solving the Urban Congestion and Emissions Problem.
Closing the Gender Pay Gap: Policy Reforms and Corporate Initiatives.
Reshaping Education for a Digital World: Integrating Technology and Reducing Disparities.
Tackling Youth Unemployment: Job Training and Apprenticeship Programs.
Combating Childhood Obesity: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles in Schools and Communities.
Revitalizing Dying Rural Communities: Strategies for Economic Growth and Well-Being.
Solving the Plastic Pollution Crisis: Alternatives and Recycling Initiatives.
Reducing Food Waste: Strategies for Sustainable Consumption and Distribution.
Addressing Cybersecurity Threats: Strengthening Online Privacy and Defenses.
Bridging the Digital Divide: Expanding Internet Access to Underserved Communities.
Fighting Corruption: Promoting Transparency and Accountability in Government.
Climate Change Mitigation: Implementing Green Energy Solutions and Policies.
Curbing the Opioid Epidemic: Comprehensive Approaches to Addiction and Recovery.
Ensuring Affordable Healthcare: Reforms to Make Medical Treatment Accessible to All.
Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting Organic Farming and Reducing Pesticides.
Preventing Bullying in Schools: Anti-Bullying Programs and Supportive Environments.
Enhancing Water Conservation: Solutions to Address Scarcity and Pollution.
Promoting Renewable Energy: Encouraging Solar, Wind, and Hydroelectric Power.
Curbing Gun Violence: Gun Control Measures and Mental Health Initiatives.
Affordable Housing Solutions: Addressing the Housing Crisis in Urban Areas.
Improving Air Quality: Measures to Reduce Pollution in Urban Environments.
Reducing Prescription Drug Costs: Strategies for Affordable Medication.
Revamping the Criminal Justice System: Addressing Mass Incarceration and Rehabilitation.
Combating Human Trafficking: Support Services and Legal Reforms.
Solving the Global Water Crisis: Access to Clean Water and Sanitation.
Curbing Drunk Driving: Promoting Responsible Alcohol Consumption and Transportation Alternatives.
Addressing Elderly Isolation: Community Support and Inclusion Programs.

Informative Essay Topics

You may demonstrate your knowledge by writing informative essays. They all focus on educating the reader without attempting to convince or express an opinion. Let's look at some good essay topics catering to all age groups and preferences.

The Surprising World of Mycorrhizal Fungi: Underground Networks in Nature.
The Art of Bonsai: Cultivating Miniature Trees and Their History.
Hidden Gems of the Deep Sea: Bioluminescent Creatures and Their Adaptations.
The Lost City of Atlantis: Myth, Legend, and Scientific Exploration.
The Forgotten Languages: Exploring Endangered and Undocumented Dialects.
The History of Cartography: How Maps Have Shaped Human Understanding.
The Science of Laughter: Why We Laugh and How It Benefits Us.
Mysterious Crop Circles: Unraveling the Enigma of Their Origins.
The Wonders of Tardigrades: Microscopic Creatures that Can Survive Extreme Conditions.
The Art of Japanese Tea Ceremony: Tradition, Ritual, and Philosophy.
The Enigma of Stonehenge: Ancient Megaliths and Their Purpose.
The World of Competitive Lock Picking: Skills, Strategies, and Ethics.
The Secret Language of Flowers: Symbolism and Communication Through Floriography.
The Mystery of D.B. Cooper: The Unsolved Disappearance and Aerial Heist.
The Science of Dreams: Understanding Sleep and Unconscious Mind Processes.
The Art of Forensic Odontology: Solving Crimes through Dental Records.
The Ingenious World of Rube Goldberg Machines: Complex Simplicity in Action.
The Unusual World of Extreme Ironing: Ironing in the Most Unexpected Places.
The Enigmatic Voynich Manuscript: A Book of Untranslatable Symbols and Plants.
The Cultural Significance of Masquerade and Carnival Celebrations Worldwide.
The Origins of Mythical Creatures: Dragons, Griffins, and the Imagination.
The Art and Science of Glassblowing: Crafting Beautiful and Functional Glass Objects.
The History and Cultural Significance of Hieroglyphics in Ancient Egypt.
The Beauty of Bioluminescent Algae: Natural Light Shows in Oceans and Lakes.
The Science of Taste: Exploring the Complexities of Flavor and Palate.
The World of Competitive Whistling: Techniques, Styles, and Competitions.
The Ancient Art of Origami: Paper Folding as a Cultural and Mathematical Practice.
The Fascinating World of Coral Reefs: Ecosystems, Threats, and Conservation.
The Art of Archery: Historical Development and Modern Sporting Aspects.
The Psychology of Superstitions: Origins, Beliefs, and Cultural Variations.

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Research Essay Topics

You may not be aware of the sheer volume of responsibilities you will likely have throughout college. When it comes to delivering research papers on time, it could leave you feeling overloaded and drained. Thankfully, our dissertation writing help provided you with excellent research essay topics.

The Impact of Microplastics on Human Health: A Comprehensive Study.
Quantum Entanglement and Its Implications for Secure Communication.
The Origins and Implications of Fermi Paradox in Astrophysics.
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Mental Health and Cognitive Function.
The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories: Motivations and Spread.
The Intersection of Art and Artificial Intelligence: Creative Machines.
Dark Matter: Unraveling the Mysterious Cosmic Enigma.
The Anthropocene Era: Human Impact on Earth's Geological History.
Memory Manipulation Techniques: Ethical Considerations and Applications.
The Mystery of the Voynich Manuscript: A Multidisciplinary Approach.
The Origins of the Universe: Big Bang Theory and Alternatives.
The Cognitive Science of Language Evolution: How Did Language Begin?
AI in Healthcare: Diagnosing Diseases and Predicting Outcomes.
Quantum Computing and Cryptography: The Threats and Safeguards.
The Ecology of Urban Rooftop Gardens: Benefits and Sustainability.
Deep Learning in Autonomous Vehicles: Challenges and Innovations.
The Pale Blue Dot: Prospects for Human Colonization of Mars.
The Psychology of Decision-Making: Cognitive Biases and Rationality.
The Interplay of Music and Memory: How Does Music Affect Recall?
The Connection Between Sleep and Memory Consolidation: Neurological Insights.
Synthetic Biology and the Creation of Artificial Life Forms.
The Socioeconomic Impact of Universal Basic Income: Case Studies.
Digital Privacy in the Age of Social Media: Risks and Protections.
The Archaeology of Shipwrecks: Discoveries, Preservation, and Insights.
The Evolution of Human Consciousness: Theories and Neuroscientific Findings.
The Use of CRISPR Technology in Gene Editing: Ethical and Legal Issues.
Predictive Policing and Crime Prevention: Efficacy and Ethical Concerns.
The Mathematics of Fractals: Application in Natural Phenomena.
The Global Impact of Rare Earth Elements: Mining and Sustainability.
Brain-Computer Interfaces and the Future of Human-Machine Interaction.

Education Essay Topics

Certain themes always seem to come up while writing an essay on education. Some people find the constant discussion about education and schools to be a bit much, and when you're engaged in a topic, it may be challenging to come up with the ideal essay topic. Yet, to assist you in your quest for knowledge, we have compiled a list of ideas because of the importance of educational essay writing.

Good College Essay Topics

The Art of Resilience: How Overcoming Challenges Shaped My Perspective.
My Curious Connection with Quantum Physics: A Journey of Discovery.
Embracing the Imperfections: Lessons from a Quirky Hobby.
Exploring Hidden Histories: Uncovering Forgotten Voices in Local Archives.
Discovering Cultural Identity: Navigating My Heritage in a Global World.
Dive into the Underwater World: Lessons from My Scuba Adventures.
Through the Lens of a Microscope: My Fascination with the Minuscule.
The Puzzle of Language: How Learning Mandarin Opened Doors.
Lost in Translation: Navigating Cross-Cultural Misunderstandings.
Journey of Empathy: My Experiences Volunteering with Refugees.
Living off the Grid: A Year of Sustainability and Self-Reliance.
The Soundtrack of My Life: How Music Has Shaped My Identity.
Finding Beauty in the Mundane: Photography as a Personal Journey.
The Science of Gastronomy: Exploring Food as a Cultural Experience.
The Written Universe: My Love Affair with Literature and Storytelling.

Essay On School

Fostering Critical Thinking: How Schools Can Encourage Independent Thought.
Beyond Grades: Rethinking Assessment Methods in Modern Education.
The Influence of School Architecture on Learning and Creativity.
The Psychology of Bullying: Understanding and Preventing School Bullying.
Cultivating Digital Citizenship: Teaching Responsibility in the Internet Age.

Student Life Essay

Exploring the Impact of Student-Teacher Relationships on Academic Success.
The Art of Time Management: Balancing Study, Work, and Social Life.
Navigating Campus Diversity: Building Bridges and Fostering Inclusivity.
The Power of Mentorship: How Student Mentorship Programs Shape Futures.
The Digital Student: How Technology Is Reshaping Learning and Socializing.
Facing the Freshman Fears: Overcoming Anxiety and Adjusting to College Life.
Living Off-Campus: The Pros and Cons of Commuting vs. On-Campus Housing.
Student Activism: Channeling Passion into Social and Political Change.
Learning Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Student Clubs and Organizations.
The Art of Self-Care: Prioritizing Mental and Physical Well-Being in Student Life.

Personal essay topics explore your lifestyle, ideas, and encounters. Readers will gain insight into your most private life events and thoughts from this kind of paper. The secret to success is to try to merge viewpoints and storytelling. The ideas listed below might serve as inspiration for you.

Essay About YourselfEssay About Yourself

The Unexpected Influences: People and Experiences That Shaped My Identity.
The Art of Self-Reflection: Discovering My Strengths and Weaknesses.
Beyond the Comfort Zone: How Challenging Experiences Define Me.
My Multifaceted Passions: Exploring the Diverse Hobbies That Make Me Who I Am.
My Personal Growth Journey: Transformative Moments and Lessons Learned.
My Cultural Mosaic: How My Background and Heritage Influence My Life.
The Soundtrack of My Life: Songs and Lyrics That Speak to My Soul.
My Creative Universe: Exploring My Artistic Expression and Inspirations.
From Words to Worlds: How Writing Has Shaped My Thoughts and Perspective.
The Road Less Traveled: My Unique Travel Experiences and Their Impact.

My Hobby Essay

Exploring the Art of Watercolor Painting: A Creative Escape.
Percussion Passion: How Drum Circles Became My Rhythm of Life.
History Unearthed: Metal Detecting for Hidden Treasures and Stories.
Wild at Heart: Bird Watching and the World of Ornithology.
The Zen of Bonsai: Cultivating Miniature Trees as a Relaxing Hobby.
Culinary Adventures: The Joy of Experimental Cooking and Food Exploration.
My Green Sanctuary: Urban Gardening and Cultivating a Miniature Oasis.
The Dance of Words: How Poetry Became My Expressive Outlet.
Beyond the Lens: Capturing Moments and Emotions Through Photography.
Riding the Waves: Surfing as a Lifestyle and Connection with Nature.

Childhood Memories

The Magic of My Childhood Hideaway: Exploring My Secret Garden.
Through the Lens of Nostalgia: A Photo Journey of My Early Years.
The Treasure Box of Childhood: Forgotten Trinkets and Their Stories.
From Chalk to Chalkboard: A Walk Down Memory Lane in My First School.
Ice Cream Truck Melodies: A Sweet Soundtrack to My Summer Memories.
Games We Played: Recreating the Fun and Friendships of My Youth.
Sunday Morning Cartoon Rituals: Exploring My Weekend Escape.
When Dinosaurs Roamed: My Fascination with Prehistoric Childhood Adventures.
Blanket Forts and Imaginary Worlds: The Power of Childhood Creativity.
Grandma's Kitchen: The Aromas, Tastes, and Lessons of My Early Years.

My Best Friend Essay

A Lifelong Friendship: The Story of My Best Friend and Me.
Kindred Spirits: How My Best Friend and I Found Each Other.
Through Thick and Thin: The Unbreakable Bond with My Best Friend.
Adventures with My Partner in Crime: Tales from My Best Friend.
A Friendship Forged in Childhood: Growing Up with My Best Friend.
The Soundtrack of Our Friendship: Songs, Memories, and Shared Moments.
Beyond Words: How My Best Friend Understands Me Like No One Else.
Travel Companions: Exploring the World with My Best Friend by My Side.
Challenges and Triumphs: How My Best Friend and I Overcame Obstacles Together.
Lessons in Friendship: What My Best Friend Has Taught Me About Life.

Personal Essay Topics

Essay about yourself, ideas for an opinion essay.

You may think of topics for an opinion essay as types of sentences that sum up the entire piece. The same holds true for any piece of writing that expresses a viewpoint. Excellent discussion topics should relate to the core subjects and the student's strongest competencies. A good opinion essay poses an issue, formulates a question, and then makes a statement. Below are some inspirational opinion topic examples for essay writing.

The Impact of AI on Human Creativity: Friend or Foe?
The Role of Humor in Political Satire: Effectiveness and Boundaries.
The Future of Space Exploration: Public vs. Private Initiatives.
The Influence of Social Media on Democracy: A Blessing or a Curse?
Exploring the Appeal of Dystopian Fiction: Insights into Our Society.
The Ethics of Gene Editing: Should We Play with Our DNA?
The Future of Remote Work: Balancing Flexibility and Human Connection.
The Necessity of Renewable Energy: Is Fossil Fuel a Thing of the Past?
Cryptocurrency and Traditional Banking: Can They Coexist or Compete?
The Influence of Pop Culture on Body Image: The Power of Media.
The Debate on Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Income Inequality?
The Role of Art in Times of Crisis: Expression, Reflection, or Protest?
The Paradox of Internet Privacy: Convenience vs. Surveillance.
The Changing Landscape of Education: Traditional vs. Online Learning.
Cultural Appropriation in Fashion: Where Do We Draw the Line?
The Impact of Virtual Reality on Empathy and Desensitization.
The Controversy of Fast Fashion: Environmental Consequences and Alternatives.
The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research: Necessity or Cruelty?
The Value of Philosophy in the Modern World: Pragmatism or Idealism?
The Future of Work: Automation, Job Displacement, and the Human Touch.

Ideas for Nature Essay

Nature essay topics may examine how human activity affects the environment or how nature affects people. There are several directions that nature essays might go in. Ones that describe how beautiful nature is might motivate readers. On the other hand, an essay on pollution can be thought-provoking and encourage one to act. You may also use an informative essay on environmental pollution to explain how people harm the environment. Let's explore the next areas of nature essay ideas for more details.

Environment Essay

Eco-Anxiety and Climate Change: Navigating the Psychological Impact.
Rewilding Urban Landscapes: Restoring Biodiversity in the Concrete Jungle.
The Ecological Importance of Bees: Beyond Honey Production.
The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Sustainable Environmental Management.
The Sounds of Nature: How Noise Pollution Affects Ecosystems and Wildlife.
Marine Permaculture: Seaweed Farming and Carbon Sequestration.
Biomimicry in Design: Learning from Nature to Solve Environmental Problems.
Waste-to-Energy Innovations: Turning Trash into Renewable Resources.
Mycorrhizal Networks: The Wood Wide Web and Its Impact on Forest Health.
Eco-Friendly Funeral Practices: Sustainable Farewell to Loved Ones.
The Art of Upcycling: Transforming Trash into Treasure in the Circular Economy.
The Silence of the Night: Light Pollution's Effects on Nocturnal Environments.
Vanishing Water Bodies: Investigating the Disappearing Lakes and Rivers.
The Secret Lives of Trees: How Forests Communicate and Support Each Other.
Food Forests: Nourishing Communities Through Permaculture.
Silent Spring Revisited: Pesticides, Wildlife, and Ecosystem Resilience.
The Plight of Pollinators: Bee Decline and Impacts on Food Security.
E-Waste Recycling Challenges: Addressing the Electronic Waste Problem.
Desertification and Land Degradation: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions.
The Environmental Impact of Space Exploration: Beyond the Stars and Back to Earth.

Essay on Deforestation

Deforestation's Ripple Effect: Impact on Global Climate Patterns.
The Role of Indigenous Communities in Combating Deforestation.
Deforestation in the Amazon: Implications for Biodiversity and Indigenous Rights.
Deforestation and Food Security: The Link Between Forest Loss and Agriculture.
Urbanization and Deforestation: The Unseen Consequences of Rapid Development.
The Timber Trade: Addressing the Drivers of Illegal Logging and Deforestation.
Deforestation in Southeast Asia: Palm Oil Production and Its Environmental Costs.
Deforestation and Water Resources: How Forests Play a Critical Role in Watershed Protection.
Reversing Deforestation: Reforestation Initiatives and their Potential.
Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Forest Management: Lessons from Traditional Practices.

Pollution Essay

Air Pollution in Urban Environments: Impacts on Health and Well-Being.
Plastic Pollution in Oceans: The Silent Threat to Marine Life.
Noise Pollution: Unheard Consequences on Human Health and Wildlife.
Soil Contamination: The Effects of Pollutants on Agriculture and Ecosystems.
Light Pollution: Its Impact on Astronomy, Wildlife, and Human Circadian Rhythms.
Radioactive Pollution: Chornobyl, Fukushima, and the Long-Term Consequences.
Microplastics in the Food Chain: How Pollution Enters Our Diets.
Industrial Pollution: Case Studies of Notable Environmental Disasters.
E-Waste and Electronic Pollution: The Global Challenge of Discarded Electronics.
Emerging Pollutants: Exploring the Environmental Impact of Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals.

Water Pollution Essay

The Impact of Industrial Effluents on Water Quality and Aquatic Life.
From Source to Sea: Tracing the Path of Water Pollution in Rivers.
The Role of Agriculture in Water Pollution: Pesticides, Runoff, and Sustainable Practices.
Water Pollution in Developing Nations: Access, Contamination, and Health Impacts.
The Dead Zones: Causes and Consequences of Oxygen-Depleted Waters in Oceans.
Water Pollution and Endocrine Disruptors: Understanding the Hormonal Effects.
Groundwater Pollution: Sources, Contamination, and Remediation Efforts.
The Flint Water Crisis: Lessons in Drinking Water Contamination and Public Health.
Microplastics in Water: Tiny Pollutants, Big Environmental Concerns.
Innovative Technologies for Water Pollution Control and Treatment.

My Favorite Season

The Season of Blossoms: Why Spring Holds a Special Place in My Heart.
Embracing the Heat: Summer's Sun, Fun, and Adventures.
Fall's Fiery Colors: The Beauty of Autumn's Changing Leaves.
Cozy Winter Days: Celebrating the Chilly Season with Warmth and Comfort.
Seasonal Sensations: A Journey Through My Favorite Time of the Year.
My Ideal Season: Exploring the Allure of My Chosen Season.
Seasonal Delights: Savoring the Flavors and Culinary Traditions of My Favorite Time of the Year.
Nature's Beauty Unveiled: Capturing the Essence of My Beloved Season.
Seasonal Hobbies and Pastimes: The Activities That Define My Favorite Season.
A Season of Memories: Recollections and Experiences That Make It My Favorite.

A Raining Day Essay

The Serenity of Rainy Days: A Mood-Enhancing Experience.
Rain-Soaked Moments: Finding Beauty in Wet Weather.
A Day for Cozy Comfort: Embracing Rainy Weather as an Opportunity.
Rainy Day Adventures: Making the Most of Indoor Activities.
Refreshing Rain: Exploring the Positive Aspects of a Wet Day.

Psychology Topics for Essay

The Power of Human Memory: How We Remember and Forget.
Nature vs. Nurture: The Debate on Genetic and Environmental Influences.
Cognitive Development in Children: Piaget's Stages of Learning.
The Mind-Body Connection: Understanding the Impact of Mental Health on Physical Health.
Abnormal Behavior: Exploring Mental Disorders and Treatment Approaches.
Attachment Theory and Relationships: The Impact of Early Bonds on Adulthood.
The Halo Effect: How Physical Attractiveness Influences Perception.
The Placebo Effect: Unraveling the Mind's Role in Healing.
Emotional Intelligence: How Understanding and Managing Emotions Impacts Success.
The Obedience Experiments: Milgram's Shocking Insights into Human Behavior.
Positive Psychology: The Science of Well-Being and Happiness.
The Social-Cognitive Theory: How Observational Learning Shapes Behavior.
The Power of Self-Fulfilling Prophecies: How Expectations Influence Outcomes.
Understanding Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Factors.
Cognitive Dissonance: Exploring the Tension Between Belief and Action.
Personality Theories: Freud, Jung, and the Complexities of Individual Differences.
The Role of Mirror Neurons in Empathy and Social Understanding.
Coping Mechanisms: How Individuals Adapt to Stress and Adversity.
The Stages of Grief: Kubler-Ross's Model of Emotional Response to Loss.
The Influence of Color on Emotions and Behavior.
Groupthink: The Dangers of Conformity in Decision-Making.
The Effect of Music on Mood and Cognitive Performance.
Understanding Sleep Disorders: From Insomnia to Sleep Apnea.
Parenting Styles: How Different Approaches Impact Child Development.
The Dark Triad of Personality: Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and Psychopathy.
The Role of Dopamine in Reward and Addiction.
The Zone of Proximal Development: Vygotsky's Theory of Learning.
The Power of Cognitive Biases: How Mental Shortcuts Affect Decision-Making.
The Uncanny Valley: The Intersection of Robots, Humanoids, and Human Emotion.
Sports Psychology: The Mental Aspects of Athletic Performance and Competition.

As psychology has several subfields, you must be aware of which ones to focus on while writing a strong essay. If you need ideas, have a look at the following psychological topics for essay:

Gender Equality Essay

There are many different concerns in the field of gender studies. Nonetheless, you must select an original gender equality essay topic from among them, such as the salary gap, the bias against women in the classroom, women empowerment essay topics, etc. Here are a few pointers that may help you choose an excellent topic.

Gender Equality in STEM Fields: Overcoming the Gender Gap.
Women in Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Corporate America.
The Impact of Gender Equality on Economic Growth and Development.
Men and Mental Health: Destigmatizing Vulnerability and Seeking Help.
Gender Equality in Sports: Equal Pay, Opportunities, and Recognition.
The Intersection of Gender and Race: Understanding and Addressing Double Discrimination.
Parental Leave Policies: Supporting Both Genders in Balancing Work and Family.
Gender Equality in Education: Encouraging Girls to Pursue STEM and Boys to Embrace the Arts.
Gender-Neutral Language: Promoting Inclusive Communication and Representation.
LGBTQ+ Rights and Gender Identity: A Fight for Inclusivity and Acceptance.
Women's Rights in Conflict Zones: Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Displacement.
The Role of Men as Allies in the Fight for Gender Equality.
Gender Equality and the Aging Workforce: Challenging Ageism and Sexism.
Gender Equality and Technology: Bridging the Digital Gender Divide.
Gendered Marketing and Consumer Culture: Promoting Fair Representation.
Gender Stereotypes in Media: How Entertainment Shapes Perceptions.
Maternal Health and Gender Equality: Ensuring Safe Motherhood Worldwide.
Gender Equality and Aging: Examining Retirement Disparities and Social Support.
Gender and Environmental Sustainability: Women's Roles in Climate Change Mitigation.
Transgender Rights: Advocating for Legal Protections and Social Inclusion.

Proposal Essay Topics

Proposals can be prepared for a scholarly audience like your teacher or students or a broader audience like a government entity or corporation. Everyone studying in high school or college will find our list of proposal essay topics helpful; if you find one you like, feel free to take it and begin researching.

Implementing a Universal Basic Income: Addressing Income Inequality.
Creating Inclusive Curriculum: Promoting Diversity in Education.
A Sustainable Fashion Initiative: Reducing the Environmental Impact of Clothing.
Expanding Mental Health Services in Schools: Fostering Student Well-Being.
Promoting Green Transportation: Incentives for Electric and Sustainable Vehicles.
Combatting Food Deserts: Strategies for Accessible and Affordable Nutrition.
Enhancing Cybersecurity in Small Businesses: Protecting Against Digital Threats.
Restorative Justice Programs in Schools: Reducing Disciplinary Measures.
Encouraging Community Gardening: Promoting Urban Agriculture and Sustainability.
Implementing a Four-Day Workweek: Balancing Productivity and Employee Well-Being.
Developing Sustainable Housing Solutions for Homeless Individuals.
The Adoption of Renewable Energy in Public Buildings: Lowering Carbon Emissions.
Establishing a Plastic Tax: Reducing Single-Use Plastic Consumption.
Expanding Telemedicine Services: Increasing Access to Healthcare in Remote Areas.
Promoting Financial Literacy in Schools: Equipping Students for Financial Success.
Enhancing Disaster Preparedness at the Community Level: A Call for Resilience.
A Zero-Waste Policy for Restaurants: Reducing Food and Packaging Waste.
Promoting Civic Engagement Among Youth: Strategies for Active Participation.
Encouraging Companies to Invest in Employee Well-Being Programs.
The Implementation of Green Roofs: Improving Urban Sustainability and Cooling.

Process Analysis Essay Topics

Outstanding process analysis essay topics are necessary for crafting a decent paper. Process essay topics allow you to format your piece effectively and offer your ideas to the target audience in a way they can grasp. Let's go through the list for inspiration:

Mastering the Art of Sourdough Bread Baking: A Step-by-Step Guide.
From Coffee Beans to Espresso: Crafting the Perfect Cup of Coffee.
DIY Home Brewing: Creating Your Signature Craft Beer.
The Process of Composting: Turning Food Scraps into Nutrient-Rich Soil.
Becoming a Minimalist: Simplifying Your Life, One Step at a Time.
Mastering the Art of Public Speaking: Overcoming Stage Fright and Captivating Your Audience.
From Sketch to Canvas: Creating a Stunning Oil Painting.
Starting Your Own Podcast: A Step-by-Step Guide to Podcast Production.
The Journey of Creating a Homemade Candle: Aromatic Creations at Home.
The Science of Chocolate Making: From Cacao Bean to Mouthwatering Bar.
Upcycling Old Furniture: Transforming Trash into Treasure.
The Art of Time Management: Strategies for Boosting Productivity and Efficiency.
Perfecting Your Yoga Practice: Aligning Mind, Body, and Breath.
Mastering the Art of Sushi Rolling: Crafting Delicious Japanese Cuisine at Home.
From Idea to Published Book: Navigating the Writing and Publishing Process.
Learning the Basics of Photography: Capturing Stunning Moments with Your Camera.
A Beginner's Guide to Gardening: Growing Your Own Vegetables and Herbs.
The Process of Making Homemade Ice Cream: Delicious Flavors in Your Kitchen.
Creating a Stunning Flower Arrangement: Designing Floral Beauty.
The Journey to a Digital Detox: Unplugging and Finding Balance in the Digital Age.

Essay Ideas on Stereotypes

Because stereotypes are such a pervasive societal problem, educators often encourage students to reflect on them. The only way to create stereotype topics for essays is to identify the societal and daily thought patterns, trace their links, and record them in writing. After learning how to create a stereotype essay, you can look for the ideal topic examples for essay. So, let's explore them together:

Stereotyping in the Workplace: Challenges and Solutions.
Cultural Stereotypes: Impact on Cross-Cultural Communication.
Media Portrayal of Villains: Unraveling the Stereotypical Archetypes.
Gender Stereotypes in Children's Toys and Their Consequences.
The Stereotype Threat: How Prejudice Affects Performance.
The Role of Education in Breaking Stereotypes: Curriculum and Beyond.
The Impact of Stereotypes on Mental Health: Addressing Stigma.
Breaking Racial Stereotypes: Stories of Resilience and Change.
Deconstructing the 'Lazy' Stereotype: Understanding the Socioeconomic Factors.
The Role of Language in Reinforcing Stereotypes: Linguistic Discrimination.
Disability Stereotypes: Shifting Perspectives on Abilities and Inclusion.
Stereotypes and the Elderly: Challenging Ageism in Society.
The Unseen Stereotypes of the LGBTQ+ Community: Hidden Biases and Myths.
The Role of Stereotypes in Political Discourse: Influences on Public Opinion.
Religious Stereotypes: Impact on Tolerance, Acceptance, and Interfaith Dialogue.
Beyond Beauty: The Stereotyping of Physical Appearance and Self-Esteem.
Counter Stereotyping: Strategies for Change and Empowerment.
Stereotypes in Literature and Pop Culture: Analyzing Subversion and Reinforcement.
The Role of Social Media in Perpetuating or Debunking Stereotypes.
Stereotypes in the Digital Age: The Consequences of Online Prejudice.

Ideas on Essay about COVID-19

The Coronavirus has overrun the planet, which has kept us indoors. Life, as we know it, has transformed. As a result, leaving us with far more questions than solutions. As the epidemic has affected practically every aspect of our lives, it is crucial to comprehend it by composing interesting essay topics on this matter:

The 'Infodemic': Analyzing the Impact of Misinformation during the Pandemic.
The Psychological Toll of Lockdowns: Examining Mental Health Challenges.
COVID-19 and the Global Economy: Economic Consequences and Recovery Strategies.
Pandemic Parenting: Balancing Work, Childcare, and Remote Learning.
The Vaccine Rollout: Successes, Challenges, and Equity Issues.
The Ethical Dilemmas of Vaccine Passports: Balancing Privacy and Public Health.
The Role of Telemedicine in Pandemic Healthcare: Opportunities and Limitations.
The Influence of COVID-19 on Climate Change: Lessons in Environmental Resilience.
COVID-19's Impact on Education: The Digital Divide and Future Learning Trends.
The Role of NGOs and Volunteerism in Pandemic Relief Efforts.
Pandemic-Induced Tech Acceleration: The Long-Term Effects on Digital Transformation.
Healthcare Disparities Exposed: Examining COVID-19's Impact on Vulnerable Communities.
Contact Tracing and Privacy Concerns: Balancing Surveillance and Public Health.
The Role of Artists in Documenting and Responding to the Pandemic.
COVID-19 Long Haulers: Exploring the Experiences of Prolonged Symptoms.
The Pandemic and Democracy: Lessons in Governance, Transparency, and Trust.
The Cultural Shifts Triggered by the Pandemic: Changes in Social Norms and Behavior.
The Future of Work: Remote Work, Hybrid Models, and Office Spaces Post-Pandemic.
COVID-19 and Global Travel: Balancing Tourism and Public Health.
The Ethical and Legal Implications of Pandemic Response: Balancing Civil Liberties and Public Safety.

Topics for Essay Based on Proverbs

Proverbs are a powerful tool for writing that may increase the impact of your points and assist your readers in believing you when you employ them. Let's examine some sayings that will make powerful topics for essays:

The Power of Actions: Examining the Real-Life Significance of 'Actions Speak Louder Than Words.'
The Art of Financial Decision-Making: A Deep Dive into 'Penny Wise, Pound Foolish.'
Risk and Reward: Exploring 'Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket' in Modern Investment Strategies.
Silver Linings in Hard Times: How 'Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining' Applies to Resilience.
Causality and Consequences: Analyzing 'You Reap What You Sow' in Various Aspects of Life.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Identifying and evaluating the distinctions and patterns between two subjects that fall under the same category is the focus of a compare and contrast essay. If you've been assigned to write such a paper, you should seek engaging comparative essay topics. So, take a look at some related essay questions examples created by our essay help platform:

The Surrealist Art of Salvador Dali vs. the Abstract Expressionism of Jackson Pollock.
The Novels of Jane Austen vs. the Novels of the Brontë Sisters: Themes and Characters.
The Harlem Renaissance vs. the Civil Rights Movement: Cultural and Political Impact.
Hinduism vs. Buddhism: Philosophical Differences and Spiritual Practices.
The French Revolution vs. the American Revolution: Causes and Outcomes.
Impressionist Painting vs. Pointillism: Techniques and Artistic Movements.
The Poetry of Langston Hughes vs. Maya Angelou: Themes and Styles.
The Victorian Era vs. the Edwardian Era: Social Norms and Fashion.
Realism in Literature vs. Magical Realism: Narrative Approaches and Themes.
The Films of Alfred Hitchcock vs. Stanley Kubrick: Cinematic Styles and Techniques.
Greek Mythology vs. Roman Mythology: Gods, Stories, and Cultural Influence.
Renewable Energy vs. Nuclear Energy: Environmental Impact and Sustainability.
Classical Music vs. Jazz: Origins, Instruments, and Musical Composition.
The Leadership Styles of Mahatma Gandhi vs. Nelson Mandela: Methods and Impact.
The Symbolism in William Faulkner's Works vs. Toni Morrison's Novels: Literary Analysis.
Gothic Architecture vs. Art Deco Architecture: Aesthetic Characteristics and Historical Context.
The Italian Renaissance vs. the Northern Renaissance: Artistic Techniques and Influences.
The Philosophies of Friedrich Nietzsche vs. Jean-Paul Sartre: Existentialism and Morality.
The Writings of Edgar Allan Poe vs. H.P. Lovecraft: Horror Genre and Literary Themes.
The Classical Ballet vs. Contemporary Dance: Choreography and Expression.

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Essays About Literature: Top 6 Examples and 8 Prompts

Society and culture are formed around literature. If you are writing essays about literature, you can use the essay examples and prompts featured in our guide.

It has been said that language holds the key to all human activities, and literature is the expression of language. It teaches new words and phrases, allows us to better our communication skills, and helps us learn more about ourselves.

Whether you are reading poems or novels, we often see parts of ourselves in the characters and themes presented by the authors. Literature gives us ideas and helps us determine what to say, while language gives form and structure to our ideas, helping us convey them.

6 Helpful Essay Examples

1. importance of literature by william anderson, 2. philippine literature by jean hodges, 3. african literature by morris marshall.

4. Nine Questions From Children’s Literature That Every Person Should Answer by Shaunta Grimes

5. Exploring tyranny and power in Macbeth by Tom Davey

6. guide to the classics: homer’s odyssey by jo adetunji, 1. the importance of literature, 2. comparing and contrasting two works of literature , 3. the use of literary devices, 4. popular adaptations of literature, 5. gender roles in literature, 6. analysis of your chosen literary work, 7. fiction vs. non-fiction, 8. literature as an art form.

“Life before literature was practical and predictable, but in the present-day, literature has expanded into countless libraries and into the minds of many as the gateway for comprehension and curiosity of the human mind and the world around them. Literature is of great importance and is studied upon as it provides the ability to connect human relationships and define what is right and what is wrong.”

Anderson writes about why an understanding of literature is crucial. It allows us to see different perspectives of people from different periods, countries, and cultures: we are given the ability to see the world from an entirely new lens. As a result, we obtain a better judgment of situations. In a world where anything can happen, literature gives us the key to enacting change for ourselves and others. You might also be interested in these essays about Beowulf .

“So successful were the efforts of colonists to blot out the memory of the country’s largely oral past that present-day Filipino writers, artists and journalists are trying to correct this inequity by recognizing the country’s wealth of ethnic traditions and disseminating them in schools through mass media. The rise of nationalistic pride in the 1960s and 1970s also helped bring about this change of attitude among a new breed of Filipinos concerned about the “Filipino identity.””

In her essay, Hodges writes about the history of Philippine literature. Unfortunately, much of Philippine literary history has been obscured by Spanish colonization, as the written works of the Spanish largely replaced the oral tradition of the native Filipinos. A heightened sense of nationalism has recently led to a resurgence in Filipino tradition, including ancient Philippine literature.

“In fact, the common denominator of the cultures of the African continent is undoubtedly the oral tradition. Writing on black Africa started in the middle Ages with the introduction of the Arabic language and later, in the nineteenth century with introduction of the Latin alphabet. Since 1934, with the birth of the “Negritude.” African authors began to write in French or in English.”

Marshall explores the history of African literature, particularly the languages it was written over time. It was initially written in Arabic and native languages; however, with the “Negritude” movement, writers began composing their works in French or English. This movement allowed African writers to spread their work and gain notoriety. Marshall gives examples of African literature, shedding light on their lyrical content.

4. Nine Questions From Children’s Literature That Every Person Should Answer by Shaunta Grimes

“ They asked me questions — questions about who I am, what I value, and where I’m headed — and pushed me to think about the answers. At some point in our lives, we decide we know everything we need to know. We stop asking questions. To remember what’s important, it sometimes helps to return to that place of childlike curiosity and wonder.”

Grimes’ essay is a testament to how much we can learn from literature, even as simple as children’s stories. She explains how different works of children’s literature, such as Charlotte’s Web and Little Women, can inspire us, help us maximize our imagination, and remind us of the fleeting nature of life. Most importantly, however, they remind us that the future is uncertain, and maximizing it is up to us.

“This is a world where the moral bar has been lowered; a world which ‘sinks beneath the yoke’. In the Macbeths, we see just how terribly the human soul can be corrupted. However, this struggle is played out within other characters too. Perhaps we’re left wondering: in such a dog-eat-dog world, how would we fare?”

The corruption that power can lead to is genuine; Davey explains how this theme is present in Shakespeare’s Macbeth . Even after being honored, Macbeth still wishes to be king and commits heinous acts of violence to achieve his goals. Violence is prevalent throughout the play, but Macbeth and Lady Macbeth exemplify the vicious cycle of bloodshed through their ambition and power.

“Polyphemus is blinded but survives the attack and curses the voyage home of the Ithacans. All of Odysseus’s men are eventually killed, and he alone survives his return home, mostly because of his versatility and cleverness. There is a strong element of the trickster figure about Homer’s Odysseus.”

Adetunji also exposes a notable work of literature, in this case, Homer’s Odyssey . She goes over the epic poem and its historical context and discusses Odysseus’ most important traits: cleverness and courage. As the story progresses, he displays great courage and bravery in his exploits, using his cunning and wit to outsmart his foes. Finally, Adetunji references modern interpretations of the Odyssey in film, literature, and other media.

8 Prompts for Essays About Literature

In your essay, write about the importance of literature; explain why we need to study literature and how it can help us in the future. Then, give examples of literary works that teach important moral lessons as evidence.

For your essay, choose two works of literature with similar themes. Then, discuss their similarities and differences in plot, theme, and characters. For example, these themes could include death, grief, love and hate, or relationships. You can also discuss which of the two pieces of literature presents your chosen theme better.

Essays about literature: The use of literary devices

Writers use literary devices to enhance their literary works and emphasize important points. Literary devices include personification, similes, metaphors, and more. You can write about the effectiveness of literary devices and the reasoning behind their usage. Research and give examples of instances where authors use literary devices effectively to enhance their message.

Literature has been adapted into cinema, television, and other media time and again, with series such as Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter turning into blockbuster franchises. Explore how these adaptations diverge from their source material yet retain the key themes the writer composed the work with in mind. If this seems confusing, research first and read some essay examples.

Literature reflects the ideas of the period it is from; for example, ancient Greek literature, such as Antigone, depicts the ideal woman as largely obedient and subservient, to an extent. For your essay, you can write about how gender roles have evolved in literature throughout the years, specifically about women. Be sure to give examples to support your points.

Choose a work of literature that interests you and analyze it in your essay. You can use your favorite novel, book, or screenplay, explain the key themes and characters and summarize the plot. Analyze the key messages in your chosen piece of literature, and discuss how the themes are enhanced through the author’s writing techniques.

Essays about literature: Fiction Vs. Non-Fiction

Literature can be divided into two categories: fiction, from the writer’s imagination, and non-fiction, written about actual events. Explore their similarities and differences, and give your opinion on which is better. For a strong argument, provide ample supporting details and cite credible sources.

Literature is an art form that uses language, so do you believe it is more effective in conveying its message? Write about how literature compares to other art forms such as painting and sculpture; state your argument and defend it adequately.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

For help picking your next essay topic, check out the best essay topics about social media .

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

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Essay Writing Guide

Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

Essay Topics: 100+ Best Essay Topics for your Guidance

By: Nova A.

13 min read

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Jan 29, 2019

Let’s face it, essay writing can be tedious and boring. Spending hours to write a good essay is difficult, and brainstorming essay topic ideas can be even more confusing.

This is what makes writing essays difficult and time-consuming. Luckily, you can learn essay writing with practice and by following some good examples. But before that, you should know how to choose a good and engaging topic for your essay.

To help you get started, we have categorized a list of a number of different types of essay topic lists.

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics

An argumentative essay investigates a topic in great detail, forms an argument over it, and defends it using supporting data.

Below are some good argumentative essay topic ideas to help you draft winning essays.

School students should be allowed to curate their high school curriculum.
The role of physical education in the school system.
Should the death sentence be implemented globally?
It should be illegal to use certain types of animals for experiments and other research purposes.
Should the government do more to improve accessibility for people with physical disabilities?
Do people learn the art of becoming a politician, or are they born with it?
Social media platform owners should monitor and block comments containing hateful language.
Does technology play a role in making people feel more isolated?
Will there ever be a time when there will be no further technological advancements?
It should be illegal to produce and sell tobacco.
Girls should be motivated to take part in sports.
Rape victims should abort their unborn children.
Fathers should get equal paternity leave.
Do teenagers get into trouble because they are bored?
Individuals who have failed at parenting should be punished.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes.
Covid-19 vaccination has more cons than pros.
Social media is the real cause of teenage depression.
Is the American education system perfect for society?
Recycling should be made compulsory.

Choosing a strong topic is key to writing a great essay. Have a look at our blog to select good argumentative essay topics to impress the audience.

Persuasive Essay Topics

A persuasive essay is similar to an argumentative paper. However, in it, the writer wants to convince the readers of their point of view. Simple essay topics would make better essays as they help the students stay focused.

Below is a list of some good persuasive essay topics for you:

Energy drinks should be banned in schools and colleges.
Gambling should be banned in the United States.
Should abortions be banned worldwide?
Hunting is an immoral act.
Is it okay to use animals in a circus?
Harmful dogs should be euthanized.
Cell phones should not be allowed in schools.
Teachers should pass a professional exam, just like students.
Schools should reduce the workload on students.
Sex education should be mandatory in high schools.
Vlogging isn’t an actual profession.
Is LinkedIn helpful for finding a job?
Social media has played a big role in increasing business opportunities.
Is Java becoming obsolete?
Should employers go through the candidate’s social media profiles?
Animal testing should be banned.
Violent video games should be banned.
Parents with mental disabilities should not be allowed to adopt children.
Alcohol consumption should be legalized in Muslim countries.
Every person should get Covid-19 vaccination.

For your help, we have gathered a wide range of persuasive essay topics . Give it a read.

Descriptive Essay Topics

A descriptive essay describes a specific thing by using sensory data. It is done to engage the reader’s five senses (taste, touch, smell, hearing, sight).

The following is a list of descriptive essay topic ideas for the students.

The person who is responsible for making a difference in my life.
Describe a smartphone and its benefits to someone from the ‘60s.
The most interesting piece of art I have ever seen.
Describe the experience of falling in love.
What does a place that only exists in your imagination look like?
Describe meeting a famous person.
Describe yourself and your personality to a stranger.
What will life be like in 2050?
An experience that changed my life forever.
Your idea of the perfect day.
My first trip abroad.
The most significant event in American History.
A popular book series that disappointed you.
A look into my daily life.
A day in the life of an ER doctor.
A trip to the museum.
The most interesting movie I watched during my summer vacation.
My favorite childhood memory.
An incident that changed my life.
An incident that restored my faith in humanity.

Here are some more descriptive essay topics to help you find a good idea for your essay.

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Narrative Essay Topics

In a narrative essay, your goal is to share a personal experience by telling a story. This creative form of writing depends on how strong and exciting the theme is. The article topics for students given here are carefully curated and would help the students do good in their essays.

Some examples and topics of narrative topic ideas are presented below.

The experience that taught me how looks could be deceiving.
A week without internet and technology.
The impact your first love had on your life.
How much did your teachers contribute to making you the person you are today?
An experience that made you realize your parents were or weren’t always right.
A moment when someone you didn’t like surprised you with kindness.
The influence technology has had on your hobbies and life.
An achievement outside of academic life?
Which school lesson had the biggest influence on your life?
A day when you fought procrastination.
The time you faced rejection.
The time when you stood against your parents.
An experience that left you helpless.
The time you prayed to be an only child.
An act of kindness you can never forget.
Death of a loved one.
Your biggest pet peeve.
Your definition of a perfect weekend.
The things you regret most in life.
Your first experience of an air trip.

Choosing interesting narrative essay topics is essential to make the content compelling for the readers.

Research Essay Topics

While writing a research essay, the most crucial step is choosing a topic for your essay. Select a topic that is broad enough to compose an entire research essay on it.

Below are some of the best topics for your research essay.

Effects of violent cartoons on children.
Should universities provide accommodations to disabled students?
Events and experiences I agree are causing the increase in terrorism.
How do technology and gadgets affect the studies of children?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school?
Universities are becoming business-driven.
Does college debt affect the future lives of students?
Why has the divorce rate changed in the past decade?
Schools should allow the use of smartphones in school.
Effective ways to decrease depression among our youth.
Analyze the relationship between the United States of America and North Korea.
Why did the UK decide to leave the EU?
Is it true that students learn better in a same-sex school?
How does giving kids different gadgets affect their studies?
Compare the immigration policies of two different countries.
Events that lead to World War I.
Pros and cons of studying abroad.
How has Covid-19 influenced the education system of the world?
Individual acts that lead to Global Warming.
Effectiveness of the policies made to control Covid-19.

Looking for more? We have an extensive range of research essay topics to make the audience fall in love with your work.

Expository Essay Topics

While writing an expository essay, you have to explain and clarify your topic clearly to the readers.

Below is a list of expository essay topics:

Why do teenagers commit suicide?
What is the impact of music on our youth?
What are the consequences of skipping school?
Why do teenagers use drugs?
How can pets make you happy and improve your life?
Consequences of having alcoholic drinks within a school campus.
How does drug use affect relationships?
Is global warming a cause of skin cancer?
Is sodium bad for your health?
What is the line between being overweight and being obese?
Why do you want to pursue your desired career?
Explain how advancements in science improve the quality of life for humans.
What are some unconventional ways of relieving stress?
If you could swap your lives with someone, who would it be and why?
What are some major stress factors in a teenager’s life?
Why is getting a degree important for job life?
Pros and cons of getting financial aid.
How emotional support animals help in treating mental conditions.
How does prostitution influence society?
The environmental causes of smoking.

5StarEssays.com has gathered an additional and extensive list of expository essay topics .

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Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

In a compare and contrast essay, you evaluate and analyze the similarities and differences between the two subjects. Your reader must be able to form an opinion after weighing the pros and cons you have set forth.

Below are some topics for you to choose for your compare and contrast paper:

Extroverts and introverts.
Generation Y Vs. Generation Z.
Traditional Helicopters Vs. Lifesize Drones.
Unemployed students Vs. students with a part-time job.
SAT and TOEFL.
Persuasive and argumentative essays - How are they similar?
How were the causes of World War I different from the causes of World War II?
Education vs. professional career: what is more difficult?
Real-life or spending your time daydreaming.
Consequences of earthquake and tsunami: what’s worse?
Being popular in high school or alone?
Part-time work or studying for a higher degree?
Getting married at an old age or a young age?
Fashion today Vs. twenty years ago.
Donald Trump Vs. Hillary Clinton.
Democracy Vs. Dictatorship
Vietnam War Vs. War on Terror.
Benefits of drinking tea Vs. coffee.
Greek and Roman methodologies - Similarities and differences.
Traditional Vs. distant learning.

Get more interesting compare and contrast essay topics at 5StarEssays.com to impress your instructors.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

The cause and effect essay explains why something happens and what happens as a result of those happenings. A cause and effect essay is a type of expository essay.

Here are a few topics for your cause and effect essay:

What are the causes of eating disorders?
Effects of climate change and global warming.
The effects of the Feminism movement.
What are the causes of increasing depression among teenagers?
What are the causes of suicidal thoughts?
Is keeping a pet effective in calming your mind?
How does divorce affects children?
Why are men afraid of commitment?
Effects of social media on youth.
Has social media affected relationships among families?
Discuss the effects of homeschooling on children.
Causes of heart diseases.
Causes of sibling rivalry.
Cramming doesn't help improve test scores.
Cause and effect of depression in the workplace.
How do abusive parents influence the mental stability of a child?
Causes and effects of bullying.
Causes of obesity in teenagers.
Effects of taking a balanced diet on health?
Causes and effects of insomnia.

To get more ideas, visit our cause and effect essay topics that are remarkable and well-suited for a great essay.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics are quite popular assignments in universities. If you are a student searching for a captivating argumentative essay topic, here is a list of ideas you can consider.

Third world war should be prevented by the Russian and US governments.
Political policies and practices affecting students.
Is gun control effective in reducing crime?
Same-sex marriage and constitutional law.
Is society over-regulated?
Are leaders born or made?
No one should be above the law.
Monarchy: pros and cons.
Rules on Political Activities by Federal Employees.
The most corrupt countries in the world.
Mercy killing should be legalized in all countries of the world.
Death penalties should be abolished.
Third-world countries should be provided with education plans by the developed countries.
Muslims should not be labeled as terrorists.
Illegal immigrants should be given equal rights.
Abortions should be legalized.
Live-in relationships should be encouraged.
Professional athletes should be allowed to consume steroids.
Should physical punishments be given to children?
Smoking in public should be an offensive crime.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

Are you looking for some funny argumentative essay topics for your essay? If so, choose a topic from the following list.

Why do people like watching funny videos?
What your cat is really thinking.
Why spam emails should be your favorite type of email.
Why wearing braces is fun.
School dropouts are the best in our society.
Why I don't like country music.
Types of dates.
A better way to get things done.
What organic food really is.
Things guys do that girls hate.
How to annoy your friend.
Why do women pretend that they enjoy sports?
Things preventing you from completing your homework in time.
Funny things we see in wedding ceremonies.
Why are spam emails more interesting?
Why does Starbucks coffee taste better?
Why are backbenchers smarter than other students?
Clowns are scarier than funny.
Should we be maintaining social distancing even after Covid-19?
Why is watching movies better than reading books?

Informative Essay Topics for Students

Essay writing requires depth. However, you don’t have to choose a complex topic in middle school, high school, or college.

Here is a list of interesting essay topics for middle school, high school, and college students.

Essay Topics for College Students

Virtual classes cannot replace the traditional class system.
Advantages and disadvantages of online classes.
Is there a need to reform the college education system?
Assault weapons should not be legal.
People with a history of mental illness should not be allowed to purchase firearms.
The taxation system needs to be changed around the globe.
Kids should not be the target audience in advertising.
The number of calories should be mentioned with every meal.
Feminists have effectively improved the workforce for women.
Is the death penalty effective?
How to identify fake news?
How to maintain a healthy life?
How to treat PTSD naturally?
Should people be judged on their appearance?
How is technology influencing the work performance of people?
Private Vs. public schools
How to choose majors in high school?
Impact of legalizing drugs on society.
Significance of learning social values.
How to prevent bullying on campus?

Essay Topics for High School

The choice to join the armed forces should be an individual decision.
Listening to music can increase work efficiency.
Being honest has more cons than pros.
People who have been in an accident value life more than others.
Embarrassing moments help boost your confidence.
Kindness is the most valuable personal trait.
Spontaneity can improve your life.
Can hobbies help improve the richness of one’s life?
Dressing properly in the office improves work efficiency
Being organized can help in school as well as the office.
Impact of homosexuality on society.
What is feminism?
How to overcome fears and phobias?
Significance of having leadership skills in job life?
Causes and treatments for bipolar disorder.
Side effects of consuming antidepressants.
How important is mental health in succeeding professionally?
How do teaching methods influence learning abilities?
Should specially-abled people be allowed to work in offices?
Discrimination and racism in the US.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Essay Topics for Middle School

Every child should have chores at home.
There should not be any summer classes.
Should students continue studying during summer vacation?
Parents should pay attention to the amount of time their children spend watching television.
Favorite family summer vacation.
Sports should be mandatory in every school.
Processed foods should not be part of private and public school lunch.
Do students still use newspapers for research?
Every individual should spend a year doing community service.
The weekend should be 3 days long.

Still need help choosing an essay topic? 5StarEssays is a professional essay writing service that helps you get a high quality essay. We have a team of essay writers who are professionals and can do your essay .

We also have an AI-powered paper writer for you to help you generate an essay in seconds to use as a reference!

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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What is Essay? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples

Essay definition.

An essay (ES-ey) is a nonfiction composition that explores a concept, argument, idea, or opinion from the personal perspective of the writer. Essays are usually a few pages, but they can also be book-length. Unlike other forms of nonfiction writing, like textbooks or biographies, an essay doesn’t inherently require research. Literary essayists are conveying ideas in a more informal way.

The word essay comes from the Late Latin exigere , meaning “ascertain or weigh,” which later became essayer in Old French. The late-15th-century version came to mean “test the quality of.” It’s this latter derivation that French philosopher Michel de Montaigne first used to describe a composition.

History of the Essay

Michel de Montaigne first coined the term essayer to describe Plutarch’s Oeuvres Morales , which is now widely considered to be a collection of essays. Under the new term, Montaigne wrote the first official collection of essays, Essais , in 1580. Montaigne’s goal was to pen his personal ideas in prose . In 1597, a collection of Francis Bacon’s work appeared as the first essay collection written in English. The term essayist was first used by English playwright Ben Jonson in 1609.

Types of Essays

There are many ways to categorize essays. Aldous Huxley, a leading essayist, determined that there are three major groups: personal and autobiographical, objective and factual, and abstract and universal. Within these groups, several other types can exist, including the following:

Academic Essays : Educators frequently assign essays to encourage students to think deeply about a given subject and to assess the student’s knowledge. As such, an academic essay employs a formal language and tone, and it may include references and a bibliography. It’s objective and factual, and it typically uses a five-paragraph model of an introduction, two or more body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Several other essay types, like descriptive, argumentative, and expository, can fall under the umbrella of an academic essay.
Analytical Essays : An analytical essay breaks down and interprets something, like an event, piece of literature, or artwork. This type of essay combines abstraction and personal viewpoints. Professional reviews of movies, TV shows, and albums are likely the most common form of analytical essays that people encounter in everyday life.
Argumentative/Persuasive Essays : In an argumentative or persuasive essay, the essayist offers their opinion on a debatable topic and refutes opposing views. Their goal is to get the reader to agree with them. Argumentative/persuasive essays can be personal, factual, and even both at the same time. They can also be humorous or satirical; Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal is a satirical essay arguing that the best way for Irish people to get out of poverty is to sell their children to rich people as a food source.
Descriptive Essays : In a descriptive essay, the essayist describes something, someone, or an event in great detail. The essay’s subject can be something concrete, meaning it can be experienced with any or all of the five senses, or abstract, meaning it can’t be interacted with in a physical sense.
Expository Essay : An expository essay is a factual piece of writing that explains a particular concept or issue. Investigative journalists often write expository essays in their beat, and things like manuals or how-to guides are also written in an expository style.
Narrative/Personal : In a narrative or personal essay, the essayist tells a story, which is usually a recounting of a personal event. Narrative and personal essays may attempt to support a moral or lesson. People are often most familiar with this category as many writers and celebrities frequently publish essay collections.

Notable Essayists

James Baldwin, “ Notes of a Native Son ”
Joan Didion, “ Goodbye To All That ”
George Orwell, “ Shooting an Elephant ”
Ralph Waldo Emerson, “ Self-Reliance ”
Virginia Woolf, " Three Guineas "

Examples of Literary Essays

1. Michel De Montaigne, “Of Presumption”

De Montaigne’s essay explores multiple topics, including his reasons for writing essays, his dissatisfaction with contemporary education, and his own victories and failings. As the father of the essay, Montaigne details characteristics of what he thinks an essay should be. His writing has a stream-of-consciousness organization that doesn’t follow a structure, and he expresses the importance of looking inward at oneself, pointing to the essay’s personal nature.

2. Virginia Woolf, “A Room of One’s Own”

Woolf’s feminist essay, written from the perspective of an unknown, fictional woman, argues that sexism keeps women from fully realizing their potential. Woolf posits that a woman needs only an income and a room of her own to express her creativity. The fictional persona Woolf uses is meant to teach the reader a greater truth: making both literal and metaphorical space for women in the world is integral to their success and wellbeing.

3. James Baldwin, “Everybody’s Protest Novel”

In this essay, Baldwin argues that Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin doesn’t serve the black community the way his contemporaries thought it did. He points out that it equates “goodness” with how well-assimilated the black characters are in white culture:

Uncle Tom’s Cabin is a very bad novel, having, in its self-righteous, virtuous sentimentality, much in common with Little Women. Sentimentality […] is the mark of dishonesty, the inability to feel; […] and it is always, therefore, the signal of secret and violent inhumanity, the mask of cruelty.

This essay is both analytical and argumentative. Baldwin analyzes the novel and argues against those who champion it.

Further Resources on Essays

Top Writing Tips offers an in-depth history of the essay.

The Harvard Writing Center offers tips on outlining an essay.

We at SuperSummary have an excellent essay writing resource guide .

Related Terms

Academic Essay
Argumentative Essay
Expository Essay
Narrative Essay
Persuasive Essay

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100 Best Literature Research Paper Topics For Students

Literary research paper topics are among the most interesting to write about. Books are the best teachers for most learners. And, students love reading interesting literature books. But, when asked to write research papers, most students have difficulties choosing their topics. That’s because many issues can be investigated and written about.

For instance, literary topics can be about characters’ personalities in certain works. They can also be about particular characteristics of specific literary genres. Learners can also choose literary analysis topics that focus on the life story of famous writers or poets. But, regardless of what a learner opts to write about, they should choose interesting topics.

What are Interesting Literary Research Paper Topics?

Several factors make a topic interesting to write about. A topic for a research paper or a graduate thesis should generally be definite, specific, and innovative. Also, it should be interesting to research and write about. Here’s how to select interesting literature topics:

Think about something. Explore the idea to select a topic for which you can find sufficient research data from credible sources. Narrow down your subject if you find it too broad.

English literature topics can be classified into different categories. Here some of these categories and topics can be considered in each category.

Great World Literature Research Topics

Perhaps, you’ve been asked to write a literature research paper with a global perspective. Here are some of the literary analysis research paper topics that you can consider.

Explain how the supernatural and spirituality help in furthering the development of the plot in the Latin American literature of the early 20th century.
What themes are common in the Japanese poems of the early 20th century? How do they differ from those of the early 19th century?
Compare the early Chinese literary works and European literary works of the middle ages. How different or alike are they?
How were European literary works in the early 20th century shaped by the revolutionary works of Engels and Marx? What examples can demonstrate this influence?
Explain how the Muslim philosophers’ work of the 15th century led to new ideas and inventions across the globe.
Compare and contrast different anti-British works that originated in India in the 19th century with pro-colonialist works that came from England at the same time.
How did the nightmarish utopian future ideas of Aldous Huxley influence modern-day science fiction writers across the world?
Explain how the Antigone play by Sophocles deals with the conflict between the central characters while relating to the state laws and individual conscience.
How are the sentiments of the authors reflected in Animal Farm by George Orwell and concerns about the October Revolution?
Explain some of the examples of literary fiction pieces that have shaped cultures in the world. Have historic, societal, and cultural factors played some roles in shaping these literature pieces?
Being a prolific writer in the early and mid-19th century, Charles Dickens’s works were published in serialized forms. How and why has this approach become less fashionable?
Compare and contrast the early Japanese literature works and the early Chinese literature works. How do they differ in terms of values and culture?
Explain how comedy differs in literature across cultures. What comedy appeared in the early theatrical performances and it’s still present in modern literature?
Analyze chivalry and honor critically in the Green Knight and Sir Gawain. What are the qualities of these works from a similar period?
Compare and contrast the Odyssey and Iliad by Homer the Ancient Greek. Explain how cultures across the world have adapted the themes presented in the poem.

British Literature Research Paper Topics

Students have many topics to choose from when it comes to British literature essay topics. Here are some of the best literature topics from the works of British authors.

Discuss Victorian England’s picture with the works of Charles Dickens in mind
Discuss the theme of Orphans with the Oliver Twist character in mind
Explain how British Literature has influenced different cultures
Explain how British literature has addressed gender issues
Explain how King Lear highlights the differences between anti-heroes and villains
Explain William Shakespeare’s personality- Highlight facts and myths
Choose two famous British novels and then compare the characters in them
Explain the viewpoint of different writers about the Utopian civilization idea
With Harry Potter books in mind, explain why some literature books are considered classics
Explain how love and romantic love are presented in Charlotte Bronte’s works
Explain how modern literary works have been affected by the Victorian period works
Discuss the adultery theme in Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Who are the main characters in Lake Poets’ works?
Explain how violent imagery was used in World War I poetry
Explain talent as a theme in Milton’s on His Blindness
Explain innocence loss in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
Explain the theme of individualism versus collectivism in Oliver Twist
Explain why the popularity of detective novels increased in the XIX century
What role did the supernatural play in Macbeth: a case study of three witches
Class demarcation in XVII century- The vengeance theme

American Literature Topics

Some teachers ask students to choose American literature research topics for certain reasons. If asked to write on such topics, here are some of the American literature research paper topics to consider.

Analyze key aspects of American ideology, particularly in the literature written before the 20th century.
Determine thematic concerns and literary styles of the major historical period of American literature between the colonial period and post-modernism.
Show the American identity uniqueness of texts
Propose connections between the American literature concerns and themes in the larger historical development and social issues that face the present world
Examine major concerns and themes that reappear across the American literature
Highlight the major themes in Absalom, Absalom by William Faulkner
Explain the African American Experience with female authors like Alice Walker, Zora Neal Hurston, and Toni Morrison
Explain the predominant theme in The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
Explain how Jonathan Edwards epitomizes Puritan definitions in his sermons
Explain the use of historical personalities and events by Washington Irving as the background for his works
The Crucible demonstrates how a community can be torn apart by hysteria. Explain
Explain how Sylvia Plath demonstrates the social pressure faced by women in the 1960s in the Bell Jar.
Explain how John Knowles demonstrates the impact of war on everyone
Explain the strong belief in the education power by Maya Angelou as depicted in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Explain how Thornton Wilder conveys life as a gift in Our Town
Discuss the themes of anger and pity in the Grapes of Wrath
Explain how Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck portrays the Great Depression struggles
Discuss the portrayal of the unconquerable spirit in Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway.
Plays by Eugene O’Neil are tragically realistic. Explain
God is humanized in The Creation poem by James Weldon Johnson. Explain

Some of the ideas here are great poetry topics. Nevertheless, they require careful research and analysis to write about.

High School Literary Essay Topics

Some topics in literature are ideal for high school essays. Here are examples of literary analysis paper topics for high school students.

Compare and contrast the major characters in your preferred book
Choose your favorite character in a book and explain your reasons for liking it
Please explain why the quality of a literature book is not determined by its length
Highlight the similarities of your favorite books
Discuss the top 4 authors in horror books
Explain why reading some books is more difficult than reading others
Explain what it takes to write a high-quality poem
Who is your favorite poet and why?
Explain what makes your favorite book interesting
Who is your favorite character in literary works and why?
What makes some literature books difficult to read?
Who are your favorite top 5 authors and why?
Should the age of readers be restricted to some books?
What is your favorite literary genre?
Explain why the author determines the quality of a book more than the story
Discuss the literary works of your favorite authors
Why is it important to captivate readers with the introductory chapter of a book?
Which book genre makes great movies?
Why is the work of Harry Potter so popular?
Explain why your favorite horror book is scary

Unique Research Topics in English Literature

Some literature research topics are unique and can be written about by learners at different study levels. Here are examples of such topics.

Analyze the use of literary devices in novels
Discuss the author’s autobiography
Analyze literary genres and the role played by an artist in them
Compare the works of a similar genre
Highlight the gender roles of characters in literary works
Social stratification and Harry Potter- Discuss
With Charles Dickens’ work in mind, explain the peculiarity of the bildungsroman genre.
Explain how The Lord of the Rings uses artificial language
Explain how the Sherlock Holmes image influences the world of detective fiction
Explain the war theme in the world literature

These are also great literary journalism topics. Nevertheless, they require extensive research to write about.

In a nutshell, students have many literary argument topics to consider. The most important thing is to choose an interesting topic that you can find sufficient data to write about. Also, don’t hesitate to check our history topics .

Essay Topics – List of 500+ Essay Writing Topics and Ideas

List of 500+ essay writing topics and ideas.

Essay topics in English can be difficult to come up with. While writing essays , many college and high school students face writer’s block and have a hard time to think about topics and ideas for an essay. In this article, we will list out many good essay topics from different categories like argumentative essays, essays on technology, environment essays for students from 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th grades. Following list of essay topics are for all – from kids to college students. We have the largest collection of essays. An essay is nothing but a piece of content which is written from the perception of writer or author. Essays are similar to a story, pamphlet, thesis, etc. The best thing about Essay is you can use any type of language – formal or informal. It can biography, the autobiography of anyone. Following is a great list of 100 essay topics. We will be adding 400 more soon!

But Before that you may wanna read some awesome Essay Writing Tips here .

500+ essay topics for students and children

Get the Huge list of 100+ Speech Topics here

Argumentative Essay Topics

Should plastic be banned?
Pollution due to Urbanization
Education should be free
Should Students get limited access to the Internet?
Selling Tobacco should be banned
Smoking in public places should be banned
Facebook should be banned
Students should not be allowed to play PUBG

Essay Topics on Technology

Wonder Of Science
Mobile Phone

Essay Topics on Festivals on Events

Independence Day (15 August)
Teachers Day
Summer Vacation
Children’s Day
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
Janmashtami
Republic Day

Essay Topics on Education

Education Essay
Importance of Education
Contribution of Technology in Education

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

Mahatma Gandhi
APJ Abdul Kalam
Jawaharlal Nehru
Swami Vivekananda
Mother Teresa
Rabindranath Tagore
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Subhash Chandra Bose
Abraham Lincoln
Martin Luther King
Lal Bahadur Shashtri

Essay Topics on Animals and Birds

My Favorite Animal

Essays Topics About Yourself

My Best Friend
My Favourite Teacher
My Aim In Life
My Favourite Game – Badminton
My Favourite Game – Essay
My Favourite Book
My Ambition
How I Spent My Summer Vacation
India of My Dreams
My School Life
I Love My Family
My Favourite Subject
My Favourite Game Badminton
My Father My Hero
My School Library
My Favourite Author
My plans for summer vacation

Essay Topics Based on Environment and Nature

Global Warming
Environment
Air Pollution
Environmental Pollution
Water Pollution
Rainy Season
Climate Change
Importance Of Trees
Winter Season
Deforestation
Natural Disasters
Save Environment
Summer Season
Trees Our Best Friend Essay In English

Essay Topics Based on Proverbs

Health Is Wealth
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
An Apple a Day Keeps Doctor Away
Where there is a will, there is way
Time and Tide wait for none

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Essay Topics for Students from 6th, 7th, 8th Grade

Noise Pollution
Environment Pollution
Women Empowerment
Time and Tide Wait for none
Science and Technology
Importance of Sports
Sports and Games
Time Management
Cleanliness is next to Godliness
Cleanliness
Rome was not Built in a Day
Unemployment
Clean India
Cow Essay In English
Describe Yourself
Festivals Of India
Ganesh Chaturthi
Healthy Food
Importance Of Water
Plastic Pollution
Value of Time
Honesty is the Best Policy
Gandhi Jayanti
Human Rights
Knowledge Is Power
Same Sex Marriage
Childhood Memories
Cyber Crime
Kalpana Chawla
Punctuality
Rani Lakshmi Bai
Spring Season
Unity In Diversity
Artificial Intelligence
Online Shopping
Indian Culture
Healthy Lifestyle
Indian Education System
Disaster Management
Environmental Issues
Freedom Fighters
Grandparents
Save Fuel For Better Environment
Importance Of Newspaper
Lal Bahadur Shastri
Raksha Bandhan
World Environment Day
Narendra Modi
What Is Religion
Charity Begins at Home
A Journey by Train
Ideal student
Save Water Save Earth
Indian Farmer
Safety of Women in India
Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Capital Punishment
College Life
Natural Resources
Peer Pressure
Nature Vs Nurture
Romeo And Juliet
Generation Gap
Makar Sankranti
Constitution of India
Girl Education
Importance of Family
Importance of Independence Day
Brain Drain
A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed
Action Speaks Louder Than Words
All That Glitters Is Not Gold
Bhagat Singh
Demonetization
Agriculture
Importance of Discipline
Population Explosion
Poverty in India
Uses Of Mobile Phones
Water Scarcity
Train Journey
Land Pollution
Environment Protection
Indian Army
Uses of Internet
All that Glitters is not Gold
Balanced Diet
Blood Donation
Digital India
Dussehra Essay
Energy Conservation
National Integration
Railway Station
Sachin Tendulkar
Health And Hygiene
Importance Of Forest
Indira Gandhi
Laughter Is The Best Medicine
Career Goals
Mental Health
Save Water Save Life
International Yoga Day
Winter Vacation
Soil Pollution
Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining
Indian Culture And Tradition
Unity Is Strength
Unity is Diversity
Wildlife Conservation
Cruelty To Animals
Nelson Mandela
Of Mice And Men
Organ Donation
Life in a Big City
Democracy in India
Waste Management
Biodiversity
Afforestation
Female Foeticide
Harmful Effects Of Junk Food
Rain Water Harvesting
Save Electricity
Social Media
Social Networking Sites
Sound Pollution
Procrastination
Life in an Indian Village
Life in Big City
Population Growth
World Population Day
Greenhouse Effect
Statue of Unity
Traffic Jam
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
Importance of Good Manners
Good Manners
Cyber Security
Green Revolution
Health And Fitness
Incredible India
Make In India
Surgical Strike
Triple Talaq
A Good Friend
Importance of Friends in our Life
Should Plastic be Banned
Nationalism
Traffic Rules
Effects of Global Warming
Fundamental Rights
Solar System
National Constitution Day
Good Mother
Importance of Trees in our Life
City Life Vs Village Life
Importance of Communication
Conservation of Nature
Man vs. Machine
Indian Economy
Mothers Love
Importance of National Integration
Black Money
Greenhouse effect
Untouchability
Self Discipline
Global Terrorism
Conservation of Biodiversity
Newspaper and Its Uses
World Health Day
Conservation of Natural Resources
A Picnic with Family
Indian Heritage
Status of Women in India
Child is Father of the Man
Reading is Good Habit
Plastic Bag
Terrorism in India
Library and Its Uses
Life on Mars
Urbanization
Pollution Due to Diwali
National Flag of India
Vocational Education
Importance of Tree Plantation
Summer Camp
Vehicle Pollution
Women Education in India
Seasons in India
Freedom of the Press
Caste System
Environment and Human Health
Mountain Climbing
Depletion of Natural Resources
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
Health Education
Effects of Deforestation
Life after School
Starvation in India
Jan Dhan Yojana
Impact of Privatization
Election Commission of India
Election and Democracy
Prevention of Global Warming
Impact of Cinema in Life
Subhas Chandra Bose
Dowry System
Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
Role of Science in Making India
Impact of Global Warming on Oceans
Pollution due to Festivals
Ambedkar Jayanti
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
Family Planning in India
Democracy vs Dictatorship
National Festivals of India
Sri Aurobindo
Casteism in India
Organ trafficking
Consequences of Global Warming
Role of Human Activities in Global Warming
Issues and Problems faced by Women in India
Role of Judiciary in the Country Today
Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
PUBG Mobile Game Addiction
Role of Youths in Nation Building
Value of Oxygen and Water in Life/Earth
Farmer Suicides in India
Start-up India
Pollution Due to Firecrackers
Life of Soldiers
Child Labour
Save Girl Child
Morning Walk
My School Fete
Essay on Financial Literacy
Essay On Sustainable Development
Essay On Punjab
Essay On Travel
My Home Essay
Child Marriage Essay
Importance Of English Language Essay
Essay On Mass Media
Essay On Horse
Essay On Police
Essay On Eid
Essay On Solar Energy
Animal Essay
Essay On Mango
Gender Discrimination Essay
Essay On Advertisement
My First Day At School Essay
My Neighborhood Essay
True Friendship Essay
Work Is Worship Essay
Essay On Self Confidence
Essay On Superstition
Essay On Bangalore
Sex Vs Gender Essay
Essay On Social Issues
Time Is Money Essay
Essay About Grandmothers
Essay On Hard Work
First Day Of School Essay
Flowers Essay
My Favorite Food Essay
Essay on Birds
Essay on Humanity
Essay on Sun
Essay on Kargil War
Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining Essay
Francis Bacon Essays
Importance of Cleanliness Essay
My Sister Essay
Self Introduction Essay
Solar Energy Essay
Sports Day Essa
Value Of Education Essay
Essay On Isro
Essay On Balance Is Beneficial
Essay On Reservation In India
Essay On Water Management
Essay On Smoking
Essay On Stress Management
Essay On William Shakespeare
Essay on Apple
Essay On Albert Einstein
Essay On Feminism
Essay On Kindness
Essay On Domestic Violence
Essay on English as a Global Language
Essay On Co-Education
Importance Of Exercise Essay
Overpopulation Essay
Smartphone Essay
Essay on River
Essay on Cyclone
Essay On Facebook
Essay On Science In Everyday Life
Essay On Women Rights
Essay On Right To Education
Essay on Quotes
Essay On Peace
Essay On Drawing
Essay On Bicycle
Essay On Sexual Harassment
Essay On Hospital
Essay On Srinivasa Ramanujan
Essay On Golden Temple
Essay On Art
Essay On Ruskin Bond
Essay On Moon
Birthday Essay
Dont Judge A Book By Its Cover Essay
Draught Essay
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Indian Politics Essay
Who am I Essay
Essay on Positive Thinking
Essay on Dance
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My parents essay
Our country essay
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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

Argumentative Essay Topics
Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
Descriptive Essay Topics
Expository and Informative Essay Topics
Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
Personal Essay Topics
Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
The best country in the world is …
Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

WeAreTeachers

Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
Does social media do more harm than good?
Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

How does playing sports affect people?
What are the effects of loving to read?
Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

Public and private schools
Capitalism vs. communism
Monarchy or democracy
Dogs vs. cats as pets

Paper books or e-books
Two political candidates in a current race
Going to college vs. starting work full-time
Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
iPhone or Android
Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

Who is the funniest person you know?
What is your happiest memory?
Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
Write about your favorite place.
When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
What is your earliest memory?

What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
Describe your favorite pet.
What is the most important item in the world to you?
Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

What makes a good leader?
Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
Describe how the internet changed the world.
What does it mean to be a good teacher?

Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience, so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
What animal makes the best pet?
Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

Is democracy the best form of government?
Is capitalism the best form of economy?
Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
Should schools have dress codes?
If I could change one school rule, it would be …
Is year-round school a good idea?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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How has the role of women in the workplace changed in the last hundred years?

70+ Fascinating Informative Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Tell them what you know. Continue Reading

50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo.

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started. Then you need to take a position, do some research, and present your viewpoint convincingly.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject. Otherwise, you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. You don't need to know everything, though; part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives.

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure you get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay , opinions matter, and controversy is based on opinions. Just make sure your opinions are backed up by facts in the essay. If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics as well.

Is global climate change caused by humans?
Is the death penalty effective?
Is the U.S. election process fair?
Is torture ever acceptable?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Are school uniforms beneficial?
Does the U.S. have a fair tax system?
Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
Is cheating out of control?
Are we too dependent on computers?
Should animals be used for research?
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
Are cell phones dangerous?
Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
Do we have a throwaway society ?
Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
Should companies market to children?
Should the government have a say in our diets?
Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
Should members of Congress have term limits?
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Are CEOs paid too much?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
Should creationism be taught in public schools?
Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
Should English be the official language of the United States?
Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
Should the alcohol-drinking age be increased or decreased?
Should everyone be required to recycle?
Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
Should same-sex marriage be legalized in more countries?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
Does boredom lead to trouble?
Should schools be in session year-round ?
Does religion cause war?
Should the government provide health care?
Should abortion be illegal?
Should more companies expand their reproductive health benefits for employees?
Is homework harmful or helpful?
Is the cost of college too high?
Is college admission too competitive?
Should euthanasia be illegal?
Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
Is affirmative action fair?
Is public prayer okay in schools?
Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
Is greater gun control a good idea?

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

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The Symbolism of White in Literature and Culture

This essay about the symbolism of white explores how this color conveys purity, innocence, and transcendence across various cultural and literary contexts. It examines white’s representation in mythology, religion, literature, art, architecture, fashion, and film, highlighting its multifaceted meanings from historical, cultural, and personal perspectives. The text demonstrates how white can symbolize both the highest ideals and complex themes, influencing human expression and interpretation deeply.

How it works

In the vast tapestry of human expression, color often serves as a powerful conduit for symbolism, conveying profound meanings that transcend linguistic barriers. Among these hues, white stands out as a beacon of purity, innocence, and transcendence, resonating deeply within literature and culture. Its symbolism is multifaceted, embodying a spectrum of interpretations shaped by historical, cultural, and personal contexts.

In literature, the symbolism of white is as diverse as the narratives it inhabits. From ancient myths to contemporary novels, authors have woven its significance into the fabric of their stories, infusing them with layers of meaning.

In classical mythology, white is often associated with divine beings and purity. The Greek goddess Athena, for instance, is frequently depicted wearing a white robe, symbolizing her wisdom and purity of spirit.

In religious texts, white holds sacred connotations across various traditions. In Christianity, it represents the purity of the soul and the divine light of God. White garments feature prominently in ceremonies such as baptisms and weddings, signifying spiritual rebirth and union. Similarly, in Hinduism, white is associated with purity and transcendence, often worn during rituals and ceremonies to symbolize spiritual enlightenment.

Within the realm of literature, white is a potent symbol of innocence and goodness, but its meaning can also be subverted to convey darker themes. In Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick,” the eponymous white whale embodies both the allure of the sublime and the destructive power of nature. Its whiteness is not merely a symbol of purity but also of enigmatic otherness, challenging the protagonist’s quest for meaning and revenge.

In contemporary literature, authors continue to explore the complexities of white symbolism in nuanced ways. In Toni Morrison’s “Beloved,” the haunting presence of a ghostly white dress serves as a potent reminder of the protagonist’s traumatic past and the legacy of slavery. The dress symbolizes both the innocence stolen from the enslaved and the haunting specter of history that continues to exert its influence on the present.

Beyond literature, white symbolism permeates various aspects of culture, from art and architecture to fashion and film. In visual arts, white is often used to evoke a sense of purity, simplicity, and transcendence. The minimalist aesthetics of artists like Kazimir Malevich and Agnes Martin rely on the purity of white space to create a sense of spiritual depth and contemplation.

In architecture, white has long been associated with notions of purity and perfection. From the pristine marble facades of ancient Greek temples to the modernist simplicity of Bauhaus design, white buildings evoke a sense of timeless elegance and harmony with the natural world. In religious architecture, white is often used to symbolize the divine presence, as seen in the gleaming domes of mosques and the spires of cathedrals reaching towards the heavens.

In fashion, white is both a timeless classic and a symbol of modernity and sophistication. The iconic little white dress, like its counterpart the little black dress, epitomizes elegance and versatility, transcending trends and seasons. In bridal wear, white symbolizes purity and innocence, tradition and new beginnings, as brides embark on a journey into married life.

In film, white symbolism can evoke a wide range of emotions and themes, from innocence and purity to emptiness and despair. In Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey,” the monolithic white form of the alien artifact represents the unknown and the transcendent, inviting viewers to ponder the mysteries of the universe. In contrast, the stark white interiors of Lars von Trier’s “Dogville” serve as a metaphor for the hypocrisy and cruelty lurking beneath the surface of small-town America.

Ultimately, the symbolism of white in literature and culture is as complex and multifaceted as the human experience itself. It encompasses a spectrum of meanings, from purity and innocence to transcendence and the unknown. Across time and space, white continues to captivate our imaginations and invite us to explore the deeper mysteries of existence.

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Mission. The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives.
The Symbolism of White in Literature and Culture
Similarly, in Hinduism, white is associated with purity and transcendence, often worn during rituals and ceremonies to symbolize spiritual enlightenment. Within the realm of literature, white is a potent symbol of innocence and goodness, but its meaning can also be subverted to convey darker themes. In Herman Melville's "Moby-Dick," the ...