[SOLVED] Jane Austen Close Readings

ENGLISH 128J
Jane Austen Close Readings
A close reading begins with a paraphrase of a short passage and complicates it. It is a coherent,
precise analysis of a passage from a literary text which acknowledges its primary obvious
meaning; its secondary, implicit meanings; and most importantly, considers how one arrives at
those meanings. A close reading tries to answer the questions: What is it like to read this
passage? How do I come to conclusions about what it means?
To answer these questions, it is essential to pay attention to the unique characteristics of the
passage’s language. How is the language organized? What imagery is used? What figures of
speech? What kind of diction? A close reading links such particulars of the reading experience
to the creation of primary and secondary meanings.
Finally, a good close reading can gesture toward how that passage fits into some larger theme
or issue addressed by the whole text from which it is taken. For all close readings, choose
passages NOT extensively discussed in class to avoid repetition of lecture material. If you’ve
submitted your close readings on time and addressed the criteria above satisfactorily, you will
automatically receive an A (95%) for these assignments. This is an adjustment that I’ve made
for our continuing struggle with the pandemic. Use this loosened grading scheme as an
opportunity to be bolder and more creative in your close readings.
Northanger Abbey Close Reading (500 words minimum, submitted to Canvas): 10%
Sense and Sensibility Close Reading (500 words minimum, submitted to Canvas): 10%
Pride and Prejudice Close Reading (500 words minimum, submitted to Canvas): 10%
Mansfield Park Close Reading (500 words minimum, submitted to Canvas): 10%
Emma Close Reading (500 words minimum, submitted to Canvas): 10%
Persuasion Close Reading (500 words minimum, submitted to Canvas): 10%
Class Lectures