ENG3U – Mr. Campbell
The Other Side of the Bridge – Essay Assignment
As discussed in class, you may answer the written response prompt from the unit test on The Other Side of the Bridge when writing your essay on the novel. That prompt is as follows:
Why is the title The Other Side of the Bridge appropriate for Mary Lawson’s latest novel? How is this title reflective of and/or related to characters within the novel, and how does it reflect and/or relate to a major theme within the novel?
Some of you may wish to explore other topics. You may also write an essay based on one of the following prompts.
1. Adversity is the most important factor in shaping character and/or identity. Assess the validity of this statement with reference to a character or characters in The Other Side of the Bridge.
2. Show how Mary Lawson’s use of imagery and/or symbolism reveals significant aspects of a central character’s personality.
3. Assess to what extent setting shapes or influences a central character in The Other Side of the Bridge.
4. To what extent do relationships contribute to a central character’s ultimate understanding of himself/herself in The Other Side of the Bridge?
5. The theme topics “perception vs. reality” and “duty vs. self-fulfillment” are prevalent in the novel The Other Side of the Bridge. Explain how one of these topics is used to develop a prominent theme within the novel.
Guide lines:
- Approx. 2000 words (Remember: Quality over Quantity)
- Title page with title that explains what your paper is about.
EXAMPLE:
“Facing Adversity: Ian Christopherson’s Transition from Adolescence to
Adulthood in The Other Side of the Bridge”
NOT:
“The Other Side of the Bridge: Essay”
OR
“English Essay: The Other Side of the Bridge”
- You must use quotations from the novel to support the points you are making
- Use footnotes to cite where your quotations come from
- Double spaced, typed, and maximum 12 pt.