Choose one of the following questions and answer in a thoughtfully constructed 2-3 page essay that makes specific textual references:

1. Consider the relationship between authority and power in both Watchmen and King Lear.
2. Discuss the role of symmetry in Watchmen, both in the content and the structure of the graphic novel.
3. Consider the ways that madness and sanity are presented in both Watchmen and King Lear.
4. Discuss a symbol or motif from each of the two texts we have studied that may be different but that fulfill the same function in their respective works.
5. In King Lear, how does Shakespeare portray Nature as reflecting the state of moral order (or disorder) in the play? [It would be helpful to remember our discussion of the Elizabethan world view.]
6. To what extent does Watchmen constitute a deconstruction of the genre of comic book super-heroes?

Outside research is not expected but you are free to consult other sources, either traditional or electronic, but be sure to cite them in a brief bibliography. Parenthetical footnotes or endnotes are fine. Citations from Watchmen should refer to chapter, page, and panel number and those from King Lear should include act, scene, and line number. If you are unsure about citations or any other aspect of this assignment, feel free to contact me. Don't forget to include "The Pledge."

The ONLY acceptable ways to submit papers in this course are: (a) hand it to me in class; (b) enclose it as an e-mail attachment--Microsoft Word or a text file, please; or (c) leave it with my secretary in the athletic department office. Do NOT put your paper in one of my mailboxes or slip it under the door of my office or my apartment.

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