American Literature Research Paper Topics

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This article provides a comprehensive guide to American literature research paper topics , showcasing the depth and diversity of the literary landscape in the United States. From colonial beginnings to contemporary voices, American literature offers a rich tapestry of stories, themes, and perspectives. For students diving into this vast field, choosing the right topic is crucial. This guide not only lists an array of potential American literature research paper topics but also delves into the evolution of American literary movements, offers practical advice for topic selection, and gives tips on how to craft a compelling paper. Additionally, with iResearchNet’s expert writing services, students are equipped with professional resources to ensure their research endeavors are a success.

100 American Literature Research Paper Topics

American literature, a vast and diverse field, encompasses a range of themes, styles, and epochs. From the colonial tales of the early settlers to the modern narratives of the 21st century, the U.S. literary canvas is as broad as the country’s history. This comprehensive list offers a variety of American literature research paper topics divided into ten distinct categories, ensuring that every student can find a theme that resonates with their interests and academic goals.

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I. Colonial and Early American Literature

  • The religious undertones in the works of Anne Bradstreet.
  • Exploring captivity narratives: Mary Rowlandson’s “A Narrative of the Captivity.”
  • Jonathan Edwards and the rhetoric of the Great Awakening.
  • The role of nature in early American literature.
  • Benjamin Franklin’s “Autobiography”: A study in self-fashioning.
  • The evolution of the American Dream in early American writings.
  • The emergence of American Gothic: Charles Brockden Brown’s “Wieland.”
  • Slavery narratives: Comparing Frederick Douglass and Harriet Jacobs.
  • The role of women in colonial American literature.
  • Native American oral traditions and their influence on early colonial writings.

II. Romanticism and the American Renaissance

  • Washington Irving and the creation of American myths.
  • Edgar Allan Poe: The master of American Gothic.
  • Transcendentalism: The philosophies of Emerson and Thoreau.
  • Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick”: An exploration of good vs. evil.
  • Nathaniel Hawthorne’s exploration of Puritanical guilt in “The Scarlet Letter.”
  • Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass” and the birth of free verse.
  • Emily Dickinson: A recluse’s perspective on society and nature.
  • The frontier in James Fenimore Cooper’s Leatherstocking Tales.
  • Gothic elements in the works of Louisa May Alcott.
  • Dark romanticism: A comparative study of Poe, Hawthorne, and Melville.

III. Realism and Naturalism

  • Mark Twain and the critique of American society in “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”
  • Henry James and the art of psychological realism.
  • The portrayal of urban life in Stephen Crane’s works.
  • Edith Wharton’s critique of the Gilded Age in “The Age of Innocence.”
  • The conflict of man versus nature in Jack London’s writings.
  • The influence of Darwinism on American naturalist writers.
  • Kate Chopin and the awakening of female sexuality.
  • The immigrant experience in Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle.”
  • The rise of regionalism: Willa Cather and the American Midwest.
  • Theodore Dreiser’s “An American Tragedy” and the dark side of the American Dream.

IV. The Harlem Renaissance

  • Langston Hughes and the jazz poetry movement.
  • Zora Neale Hurston’s exploration of black folklore in “Their Eyes Were Watching God.”
  • Claude McKay and the politics of race in America.
  • Jean Toomer’s “Cane”: A mosaic of African American life.
  • The influence of jazz and blues on Harlem Renaissance literature.
  • The role of magazines and journals in promoting African American voices.
  • Nella Larsen’s exploration of racial identity in “Passing.”
  • Alain Locke’s “The New Negro” and the redefinition of African American identity.
  • Gender and sexuality in the works of Wallace Thurman.
  • The intersection of visual arts and literature during the Harlem Renaissance.

V. Modernism

  • F. Scott Fitzgerald and the disillusionment of the Jazz Age.
  • Ernest Hemingway’s narrative style and the “Lost Generation.”
  • Gertrude Stein and the avant-garde literary scene.
  • T.S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land” and the fragmentation of modern society.
  • The influence of World War I on American modernist writers.
  • John Dos Passos and the critique of capitalism in “The U.S.A. Trilogy.”
  • William Faulkner’s innovative narrative techniques.
  • The works of E.E. Cummings and the break from traditional poetic forms.
  • The influence of expatriation on American modernist literature.
  • Djuna Barnes and the exploration of sexuality in “Nightwood.”

VI. The Beat Generation

  • Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road”: Defining the Beat ethos.
  • Allen Ginsberg’s “Howl”: A protest against conformity and consumerism.
  • William S. Burroughs’ “Naked Lunch” and its critique of post-war America.
  • The role of jazz and drug culture in the Beat literary movement.
  • The Beat Generation and their relationship with Eastern spirituality.
  • Female voices in the Beat movement: Diane di Prima and Joanne Kyger.
  • The legacy of Neal Cassady: From muse to writer.
  • The impact of San Francisco Renaissance on the Beats.
  • The Beats and their dissection of the American Dream.
  • The global travels of the Beat Generation and their reflections in literature.

VII. Postmodernism

  • Thomas Pynchon and the entropic vision of “Gravity’s Rainbow.”
  • Kurt Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse-Five”: War, time, and metafiction.
  • Metafiction and historiographic metafiction in works by John Barth.
  • The detective novel reimagined: Paul Auster’s “City of Glass.”
  • Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” and the haunting of history.
  • Don DeLillo’s “White Noise” and the fear of death in postmodern society.
  • Paranoia and conspiracy in Robert Coover’s novels.
  • Postcolonial critique in Salman Rushdie’s “The Satanic Verses.”
  • The consumerist dystopia in Bret Easton Ellis’s “American Psycho.”
  • Maximalism in David Foster Wallace’s “Infinite Jest.”

VIII. Contemporary American Literature

  • Identity and multiculturalism in Jhumpa Lahiri’s “The Namesake.”
  • The post-9/11 American psyche in novels by Jonathan Safran Foer.
  • Magical realism and the immigrant experience in Junot Diaz’s “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao.”
  • The reimagining of the American West in Annie Proulx’s works.
  • Technology and isolation in Dave Eggers’ “The Circle.”
  • The deconstruction of the family narrative in Jonathan Franzen’s “The Corrections.”
  • The changing American South in the works of Jesmyn Ward.
  • Dystopian futures in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “The Testaments.”
  • Coming-of-age in the digital age: Sally Rooney’s novels.
  • The clash of cultures in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Americanah.”

IX. Literature of the American Frontier and West

  • The myth versus reality of the Wild West in Owen Wister’s “The Virginian.”
  • Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian” and the brutality of westward expansion.
  • The legacy of frontier humor in Mark Twain’s early works.
  • Women’s perspectives on the frontier: Willa Cather’s “O Pioneers!”
  • Native American voices and the frontier: N. Scott Momaday’s “House Made of Dawn.”
  • The environmental ethics of the American West in Edward Abbey’s “Desert Solitaire.”
  • Revisionist Westerns: Larry McMurtry’s “Lonesome Dove.”
  • Exploration of masculinity and the mythic West in Sam Shepard’s plays.
  • The Gold Rush in American literature: Joaquin Miller’s poetic works.
  • The Asian American experience in the Old West: Sui Sin Far’s stories.

X. Science Fiction and Dystopian Literature

  • The socio-political critiques in Philip K. Dick’s novels.
  • Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation” series and the fall of the American empire.
  • The fear of otherness in Robert A. Heinlein’s “Stranger in a Strange Land.”
  • Environmental collapse in Octavia E. Butler’s “Parable” series.
  • Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451” and the danger of censorship.
  • The commercialization of society in Frederik Pohl’s “The Space Merchants.”
  • Feminism and gender in Ursula K. Le Guin’s “The Left Hand of Darkness.”
  • The evolution of the post-apocalyptic narrative in American science fiction.
  • The role of technology and artificial intelligence in contemporary American science fiction.
  • The resurgence of dystopian literature in the 21st century: Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games” series.

American literature, shaped by history, society, and diverse voices, offers a plethora of research topics. Whether students wish to delve deep into a specific era or explore overarching themes across epochs, this list provides a starting point. Armed with these American literature research paper topics, scholars can embark on an enlightening journey through the annals of American literature, discovering insights that not only illuminate the texts but also reflect the nation’s evolving identity.

American Literature and the Range of Topics It Offers

American literature, as vast and varied as the landscape of the country itself, encapsulates the spirit, dreams, and dilemmas of its people over centuries. From the indigenous narratives of pre-colonial America to the postmodernist critiques of the late 20th century, the literary output of the United States mirrors the sociopolitical changes, cultural shifts, and individual narratives that have shaped its history.

Colonial and Early American literature, for instance, grapple with themes of discovery, colonization, and the quest for identity in a new world. Authors like Anne Bradstreet and Jonathan Edwards exemplify this era’s struggles and spiritual yearnings. Their works lay the foundation for the Romantic period that followed, characterized by the writings of Edgar Allan Poe, Washington Irving, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. These authors delved deep into the human psyche, often highlighting the dualities of human nature and the looming American wilderness.

The transcendentalist movement, spearheaded by figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, presented a unique take on individuality, nature, and spirituality. Their perspectives provided a stark contrast to the realist and naturalist writers of the late 19th century, who, influenced by Darwinism and the Industrial Revolution, presented a grittier, more deterministic view of the human experience.

The 20th century ushered in a literary renaissance, with the Harlem Renaissance leading the charge. This era, defined by writers like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Claude McKay, not only redefined African American literature but also laid the groundwork for successive generations of writers to explore themes of racial identity, inequality, and heritage.

American literature’s vast scope is further broadened by the Beat Generation, Postmodernists, and contemporary writers, each adding layers of complexity and depth to this already multifaceted literary tradition. The Beats, with their unorthodox lifestyles and candid explorations of sexuality, spirituality, and societal rebellion, paved the way for postmodernists to break literary conventions and question the very nature of narrative and authorship.

In the contemporary realm, the literary landscape is even more diverse, with authors from various backgrounds addressing issues such as immigration, gender identity, technology, and globalization.

Considering the vastness and depth of American literature, the range of potential American literature research paper topics is immense. Whether analyzing a specific author’s style, comparing literary movements, or delving into the socio-political implications of a particular work, students have a plethora of avenues to explore. The beauty of American literature lies not just in its rich tapestry of stories but also in the endless academic inquiries it sparks.

The American literary canon, forever expanding and evolving, stands as an open invitation for scholars, students, and readers alike to delve in, explore, and contribute to the ongoing conversation. The American literature research paper topics presented earlier merely scratch the surface of what’s possible, offering a starting point for those eager to embark on their own literary journey through the annals of American literature.

How to Choose an American Literature Research Paper Topic

The process of selecting American literature research paper topics can be both exciting and daunting. The vast expanse of literary works, spanning from the earliest colonial narratives to the contemporary experimental pieces, offers a plethora of subjects to dive into. However, choosing the right topic is crucial not only for academic success but also for maintaining personal interest throughout the research process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you in making an informed choice:

  • Start with Personal Interest: Your enthusiasm for a particular era, author, or theme can drive the quality of your research. Always consider what genuinely intrigues you about American literature. Is it the Harlem Renaissance, the transcendentalist movement, or the postmodern era?
  • Read Widely: Before settling on a topic, immerse yourself in a variety of texts. By exploring a wide range of works, you might discover a previously unconsidered area of interest or identify gaps in existing research.
  • Historical Context Matters: The socio-political backdrop against which a literary work was produced often deeply influences its content and themes. Understanding this context can provide richer layers of meaning to your research.
  • Consider Genre and Form: Instead of focusing solely on an author or era, consider diving into specific literary forms – poetry, short stories, novels, plays – or genres like Gothic, mystery, or magical realism within American literature.
  • Check Availability of Resources: It’s essential to ensure that adequate resources – primary texts, scholarly articles, critiques – are available on your chosen topic. Conduct preliminary research to gauge this.
  • Consult Professors or Mentors: Engage in discussions with your professors or academic mentors. Their insights, based on years of experience and study, can guide you toward a promising research area or warn you about potential pitfalls.
  • Evaluate Scope: Ensure that your chosen topic is neither too broad nor too narrow. A topic that’s too expansive can be overwhelming, while an overly specific subject might lack substantial content for a comprehensive paper.
  • Interdisciplinary Approaches: Consider merging literary analysis with insights from fields like sociology, psychology, or history. For instance, you could study the portrayal of mental illness in American literature through both a literary and psychological lens.
  • Stay Updated with Recent Scholarship: Literary interpretations evolve over time. Ensure you’re familiar with the latest scholarly discussions surrounding your topic. This can help refine your thesis and approach.
  • Relevance and Contribution: Ask yourself how your research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Aiming for a fresh perspective or a unique interpretation can make your work stand out.

Choosing a topic for a research paper in American literature is a journey of discovery. It’s about finding the right balance between personal interest, academic relevance, and the potential contribution to the field. Remember, the process of research and writing should be as rewarding as the final product. By carefully selecting your topic, you set the stage for a fulfilling academic endeavor.

How to Write an American Literature Research Paper

Delving into the world of American literature is like embarking on a thrilling journey across time, cultures, and ideologies. From the early Native American oral traditions to the cutting-edge contemporary narratives, the literary landscape of America offers a vast terrain to explore and analyze. Writing a research paper on such a subject is not just about summarizing texts, but about adding to the discourse. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft a compelling and insightful research paper on American literature:

Your research paper journey begins with a strong introduction. This is your chance to captivate your reader’s interest, provide some background on your topic, and present your thesis statement.

  • Choose a Strong Thesis: A clear, concise, and debatable thesis is the backbone of your research paper. Ensure it provides a fresh perspective or a unique angle on your chosen topic.
  • Research Thoroughly: Dive deep into primary sources (novels, poems, plays, etc.) and secondary sources (critiques, essays, and scholarly papers). Libraries, academic databases, and online literary journals are invaluable resources.
  • Develop a Structured Outline: Before diving into writing, chalk out an outline. This ensures a logical flow to your arguments and helps in organizing your thoughts systematically.
  • Maintain a Critical Perspective: While it’s essential to understand various interpretations, always maintain a critical lens. Challenge existing viewpoints, draw your conclusions, and support them with evidence.
  • Incorporate Quotes Wisely: Direct quotes from literary works can bolster your arguments. However, use them judiciously. Ensure they serve a purpose in your narrative and always provide proper citations.
  • Understand Literary Devices: Having a firm grasp of literary devices like allegory, symbolism, or irony will enhance your analysis. Highlight where authors have employed these tools and discuss their significance.
  • Historical and Cultural Context: American literature cannot be detached from its historical and cultural backdrop. Embed your analysis within this context, offering a richer and more nuanced understanding.
  • Stay Objective: While personal interpretations are vital, ensure your arguments remain objective. Avoid overly emotional or biased language.
  • Revise and Edit: Once your initial draft is ready, take a break before revising. Fresh eyes can spot inconsistencies, redundancies, or errors. Check for clarity, coherence, and overall flow. Grammar, punctuation, and syntax should be impeccable.
  • Properly Format and Cite: Adhere to the specified format, whether it’s APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard. Properly cite all your sources to avoid plagiarism. Utilize tools or software that can help streamline this process.

Wrap up your research paper by reiterating your main arguments and thesis. Highlight the significance of your findings and hint at potential areas for future research. Writing an American literature research paper is a rigorous but rewarding process. It demands diligence, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the literary arts. Remember, it’s not just about presenting facts but weaving a story that adds value to the existing body of knowledge. With dedication and passion, you’ll not only craft an impactful research paper but also deepen your connection with the rich tapestry of American literature.

iResearchNet Writing Services

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  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers: With a dedicated team of writers who not only hold advanced degrees but also have a deep passion for American literature, iResearchNet ensures that your research paper is both academically rigorous and creatively engaging.
  • Custom Written Works: Every student is unique, and so is their perspective. iResearchNet prides itself on delivering 100% original content, tailor-made to resonate with your unique viewpoint and academic requirements.
  • In-Depth Research: The cornerstone of an impactful research paper is exhaustive research. Our team delves deep into countless primary and secondary sources to ensure a comprehensive and insightful exploration of your chosen topic.
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Navigating the world of American literature is a daunting task, but with iResearchNet by your side, it becomes an enriching experience. Offering a perfect blend of academic rigor and creative flair, our services ensure that your research paper stands out, reflecting not just the vastness of American literature but also your unique perspective. Join hands with iResearchNet and transform your academic journey into a memorable literary adventure.

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ISSN : 0950-4125

Article publication date: 10 August 2010

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White, S. (2010), "PAL: Perspectives in American Literature: A Research and Reference Guide", Reference Reviews , Vol. 24 No. 6, pp. 27-28. https://doi.org/10.1108/09504121011067094

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50 American Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas

The most defining aspect of your American literature research paper is the topic. It determines the books you will read and the perspective you take in the discussion. The topic also invites readers or will repel them. The topic plays a huge role during grading. Above all, it will determine the perception with which readers approach your paper.

There are many research paper topics American literature you can consider in your writing. When asked to pick a topic for your paper, here are a few considerations to make.

  • Freshness – are you discussing the same old American literature research topics that your professor explored decades ago? No one will pick your paper from the shelves. Choose the most recent and forward-looking ideas. The oldest professor in your department will be looking for fresh ideas in your work. You would better provide that.
  • Unique – look for unique American literature research paper ideas to discuss in your paper. Avoid perspectives that every student would discuss in their paper. Choose a topic that immediately captures the attention of the vetting panel because it is original and unique.
  • Specific – what do you want to discuss about American literature? The area is so wide that it cannot fit into one research paper. Choose a specific idea that creates boundaries for your paper. The person reading the paper should have a clear idea of what to expect based on the topic.
  • Researchable – can you get reference materials for your literature research paper topic? Choose a strong and researchable topic, especially one that is relevant to the unit you are studying. It must be within the scope of American literature to make sense to a reader. Avoid shallow topics that deny you the opportunity to express your ideas. At the same time, the topic should not be too demanding that you fail to make a comprehensible argument.

Here are the best American literature topics to consider for your paper:

  • American dream in literature
  • Labor movement depiction in writing
  • Cross-generational American authors
  • Most influential American literature
  • American literature and social media
  • Contribution of American writers to the world
  • American literature and the Nobel price
  • Religion in the American literature
  • American book topics ideas across races
  • Racism depiction in American books
  • Politics and the growth of the American literary scene
  • The tradition of the theater and its influence on American literature
  • Modern American poets
  • Literature of the American Civil War
  • Depiction of the indigenous people in American literature
  • The language of American writing
  • The place of film in American writing
  • Authors who have influenced American writing
  • Sports and literature
  • The opera and literature
  • Immigrants writers
  • American wars and their influence on literature
  • Capitalism captured in American writing
  • Influence of foreign languages
  • Impact of the school system on American writing
  • The gender divide in literature
  • Mark Twain influence
  • Literature and age
  • Samuel Clemens
  • Technology and impact on literature
  • Literature out of quarantine
  • Gender-based violence in literature
  • LGBTQ in literature
  • Sign language and literature
  • Human rights
  • The international community in American Literature
  • American legends
  • Mythology in American writing
  • Fiction in American writing
  • WWI literature
  • Bibliographies and autobiographies
  • Literature and propaganda
  • Literature of the city
  • Feminism in writing
  • Social identity
  • Evolution of American literature
  • Interracial love
  • American performed literature
  • Liberty in American Novels
  • Black poets

There are many topics you can explore in your American literature research papers. Choose a topic that allows you to exercise your mind and deliver the most insightful discussion. You may also hire a professional writer to assist you with the paper.

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100 Best Literature Research Paper Topics For Students

literary research paper topics

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.

Top Literary topics for Research Paper

Some topics for literary analysis stand out among students. These are topics that educators recommend for students across the study levels.

  • How is literature an aspect of modern culture?
  • Explain how feminism has influenced modern literature
  • How is psychology utilized in literature?
  • Explain the major social issues that have been exposed by literary works
  • Explain the philosophical tradition of Daoism in the Chinese literature
  • Explain the roles played by death and honor in Japanese literature in the 20th century
  • Explain how the European culture influences the Mid-West literature
  • How has European culture affected modern literature?
  • Analyze the personality of Don Quixote
  • Explain how literature differs between countries.
  • Discuss poetry in the innovative ear of the 21st century
  • Examine racism in the novels of the 1960s and 1970s
  • Explain the exile’s perception in literature
  • Literature and culture? Which one affects the other?
  • How has literature addressed homosexuality?

These can also be great literary debate topics. That’s because learners can have varying opinions about them.

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 .

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Digital Humanities at Tufts & Beyond

American literature, english and irish language & literature, postcolonial studies.

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Digital Projects & Peer Review

  • Advanced Research Consortium (ARC) The Advanced Research Consortium (ARC) is composed of a number of period-specific nodes and thematic nodes that each maintain their own specific datasets and web sites. These act as outlets and finding aids for cultural artifacts and peer-reviewed digital resources.

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You'll find on this page exemplary open access Digital Humanities projects focused on English language and literature. If you know of an excellent project that isn't included here, please let us know . And remember to visit Tufts Digital Humanities to discover more about the topic, get support for projects, and much more! 

  • Faulkner at Virginia: An Audio Archive Professor Stephen Railton, with assistance from the Scholars’ Lab, created the Faulkner at Virginia archive. Here you can listen in on William Faulkner’s sessions with audiences at the University of Virginia in 1957 and 1958, during his two terms as UVA’s first Writer-in-Residence.
  • Mark Twain Project Online A project of the University of California and California Digital Library, the Mark Twain Project Online applies innovative technology to more than four decades' worth of archival research by expert editors at the Mark Twain Project. It offers unfettered, intuitive access to reliable texts, accurate and exhaustive notes, and the most recently discovered letters and documents.
  • Melville Electronic Library A project of Hofstra University, the Melville Electronic Library is committed to making reliable texts of all versions of Melville’s works available to all readers in an interactive and collaborative environment.
  • The Walt Whitman Archive The Walt Whitman Archive endeavors to make Whitman's vast work freely and conveniently accessible to scholars, students, and general readers. Drawing on the resources of libraries and collections from around the world, the Whitman Archive is the most comprehensive record of works by and about Whitman—and continues to grow. The Archive is directed by Kenneth M. Price (University of Nebraska–Lincoln) and Ed Folsom (University of Iowa), with ongoing contributions from many other editor-scholars, students, information professionals, and technologists.
  • Who Speaks for the Negro? Who Speaks for the Negro? is a digital archive of materials related to the book of the same name published by Robert Penn Warren in 1965. The archive consists of digitized versions of the original reel-to-reel recordings that Warren compiled for each of his interviewees as well as print materials related to the project. All of the print materials appear on the website in two versions: an image of the original document which is not searchable and a re-transcribed document which is searchable. These interviews were conducted with leading figures in both literature and the Civil Rights movement, including James Baldwin, Martin Luther King, Jr., Clarie Collins Harvey, Malcolm X, Ralph Ellison, and many, many others.
  • 18th Century Connect A product of the Initiative for Digital Humanities, Media, & Culture at Texas A&M University, 18th Century Connect is a search portal (access via plain-text searching to open access and proprietary and digital archives including EEBO and ECCO, even if their institutions are unable to afford those resources;) a peer-reviewing organization, and an online community.
  • The Carlyle Letters Online A project of Duke University Press, The Carlyle Letters Online is a digital archive based on the Duke-Edinburgh edition of The Collected Letters of Thomas and Jane Welsh Carlyle. Browse thousands of their collected letters by date, by recipient, by subject, and by volume. We invite you to experience a correspondence that features some of the most influential writers and thinkers of the day.
  • Dickens Journals Online University of Buckingham: Complete online edition of Dickens's weekly magazines, Household Words and All the Year Round. In their day, these were phenomenally popular journals, which not only carried installments of such well known novels as Great Expectations, Hard Times, North and South, and The Woman in White, but also poetry, investigative journalism, travel writing, popular science, history, and political comment. Readers have access to high-quality facsimile downloads of each weekly number, which show a fully searchable transcript of the text of each page.
  • Digital Mitford: The Mary Russell Mitford Archive A project of the Mary Russell Mitford Society, Digital Mitford has two main purposes: to produce the first comprehensive scholarly edition of the works and letters of Mary Russell Mitford; and to share knowledge of TEI XML and other related humanities computing practices with all serious scholars interested in contributing to the project.
  • The Grinnell Beowulf From Grinnell College, this is a student-faculty collaboration that created a digital, fully searchable, annotated, translated edition of Beowulf.
  • The John Milton Reading Room Thomas H. Luxon, General Editor, Dartmouth College: The John Milton Reading Room: the complete poetry and selected prose of John Milton, with introductions, research guides, and hyperlinked annotations.
  • Mapping Metaphor with the Historical Thesaurus University of Glasgow: The Metaphor Map of English shows the metaphorical links which have been identified between different areas of meaning. These links can be from the Anglo-Saxon period right up to the present day so the map covers 1300 years of the English language. This allows us the opportunity to track metaphorical ways of thinking and expressing ourselves over more than a millennium.
  • The Middle English Texts Series The Middle English Texts Series is a long-running academic publishing project based out of the University of Rochester’s Robbins Library. The goal of this project is to make relatively unknown or unread medieval texts available to scholars, teachers, and students who may otherwise struggle to find them in the commercial market. These digital editions, which are free for anyone to view and print, embody this ideal of making ‘fringe’ medieval literature accessible to as many people as possible.
  • Milton Revealed University of California, Berkeley: Milton Revealed is a collaborative project to collect audio-visual materials related to John Milton and his work, to re-examine his relation to theatricality, and to develop teaching approaches to Milton that use performance across a variety of media.
  • The Mind is a Metaphor Authored by Brad Pasanek, Assistant Professor of English, University of Virginia, The Mind is a Metaphor is an evolving work of reference, an ever more interactive, more solidly constructed collection of mental metaphorics. This collection of eighteenth-century metaphors of mind serves as the basis for a scholarly study of the metaphors and root-images appealed to by the novelists, poets, dramatists, essayists, philosophers, belle-lettrists, preachers, and pamphleteers of the long eighteenth century.
  • Network Visualization: Mapping Shakespeare’s Tragedies Martin Grandjean, Université de Lausanne: Narration, even fictional, contains a network of interacting characters. Constituting a well defined corpus, the eleven Shakespearean tragedies can easily be compared: We propose here a network visualization in which each character is represented by a node connected with the characters that appear in the same scenes.
  • Princeton Prosody Archive Princeton University: The Princeton Prosody Archive (PPA) is an incomplete, yet full-text searchable database of thousands of digitized prosodic works published between 1569 and 1923. The PPA began as a collection of texts about versification. Now it covers the study of poetry, grammar, literary history, and speech. We understand the PPA collections to be necessarily incomplete – a starting point for new scholarship in historical poetics and historical linguistics. As such, we intend the words “prosody” and “archive” in their broadest possible senses.
  • Rossetti Archive Developed as part of the NINES project (Networked Infrastructure for Nineteenth-century Electronic Scholarship), the Rossetti Archive facilitates the scholarly study of Dante Gabriel Rossetti, the painter, designer, writer, and translator. This resource provides students and scholars with access to all of DGR's pictorial and textual works and to a large contextual corpus of materials. All documents are encoded for structured search and analysis.
  • Shakespeare's Staging University of California, Berkeley: "Shakespeare's Staging explores the history of Shakespeare performance through images, videos, essays and bibliographies. The site is designed to be a resource for teachers and students of Shakespeare as well as for performers and directors of the plays."
  • Shelley-Godwin Archive The Shelley-Godwin Archive will provide the digitized manuscripts of Percy Bysshe Shelley, Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, William Godwin, and Mary Wollstonecraft, bringing together online for the first time ever the widely dispersed handwritten legacy of this uniquely gifted family of writers. The result of a partnership between the New York Public Library and the Maryland Institute for Technology in the Humanities, in cooperation with Oxford’s Bodleian Library, the S-GA also includes key contributions from the Huntington Library, the British Library, and the Houghton Library. In total, these partner libraries contain over 90% of all known relevant manuscripts.
  • Songs of the Victorians Joanna (Annie) Swafford, currently Digital Humanities Specialist at Tufts University: Songs of the Victorians is an archive of parlor and art song settings of Victorian poems, and also a scholarly tool to facilitate interdisciplinary music and poetry scholarship. It contains four songs: Michael William Balfe's "Come into the Garden, Maud" and Sir Arthur Somervell's "Come into the Garden, Maud" (both based on Alfred Lord Tennyson's monodrama, Maud), Sir Arthur Sullivan's version of Adelaide Procter's "A Lost Chord," and Caroline Norton's "Juanita."
  • Augmented Notes Joanna (Annie) Swafford, Digital Humanities Specialist at Tufts University: A tool for producing interdisciplinary music and text scholarship, Augmented Notes integrates scores and audio files to produce interactive multimedia websites in which measures of the score are highlighted in time with music.
  • The William Blake Archive The William Blake Archive is a contemporary response to the needs of this dispersed and various audience of readers and viewers and to the corresponding needs of the collections where Blake's original works are currently held. Advanced principles of design allow the Blake Archive to integrate editions, catalogues, databases, and scholarly tools into one electronic archival resource. We supply reproductions that are more accurate in color, detail, and scale than the finest commercially published photomechanical reproductions and texts that are more faithful to Blake's own than any collected edition has provided. The Archive site is made possible by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Rochester.
  • The Stockton Postcolonial Studies Project From Stockton University, the Stockton Postcolonial Studies Project is an ongoing digital research project that explores different theoretical arenas within postcolonial studies. The Project is an effort to document recent trends in the history of postcolonial studies across a variety of fields and disciplines.
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For forty years, American Literary Realism has brought readers critical essays on American literature from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The whole panorama of great authors from this key transition period in American literary history, including Henry James, Edith Wharton, Mark Twain, and many others, is discussed in articles, book reviews, critical essays, bibliographies, documents, and notes on all related topics. Each issue is also a valuable bibliographic resource.

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Teaching American Literature: My Units & Favorite Lessons

Teaching american literature.

american literature research project

But I know how it feels to be completely overwhelmed with the thought of American literature because there are so many texts, themes, options, and approaches. I also know how helpful it is to merely glance at another teacher’s ideas and plans, so I decided to spread the American Lit love by offering you a glimpse into how I teach my class.  At my school, this course is offered at the 11th grade level, and it is the standard English class for students who are not taking AP.

This blog post is not a comprehensive curriculum map, but rather, an outline with a few of my favorite activities for each unit and some thoughts on what I plan on changing this year. I do plan on writing blog posts for each unit that I mention below, so you can look forward to those for even more information. Also, this is just a look at Semester I, so stay tuned for another post of Semester II.

Happy planning!

UNIT 1: American Perspectives & the American dream

This is a mini-unit that serves as the foundation for my year-long American literature course. In the past, we’ve specifically focused on the American dream, but this year we are taking an approach to incorporate more unique voices from diverse writers. Inevitably, we will discuss the American dream from the perspective of different individuals, but we aren’t locking ourselves into the “dream.” This mini-unit is a way to expose students to key ideas, questions, and themes that we will encounter throughout the year. Additionally, this unit allows us to preview essential skills and obtain some writing samples that will help inform our instruction.

That being said, my two favorite activities do involve the American dream, but both of these are great ways to introduce different perspectives and voices.The first activity is actually a genius (not my own idea) simulation that introduces students to the concepts of privilege and social mobility, and thus, the American dream. You can read more about it here , but essentially, you put a trash can at the front of the room and instruct students to create a paper ball. Students must stay in their seats, and they get only one chance to make the basket. Students in the back quickly get frustrated and voice their complaints, while the few privileged students in the front often make the shot.

When I do this activity, I hype it up and don’t provide any context, because I want my students to discover the purpose of this simulation on their own. After everyone has a shot and I reward the winners with candy, I ask the students: “Why do you think we just did this activity?” and we discuss the symbolism of the trash can as the American dream. This simulation really opens up students’ eyes to the reality of the American dream. Many of the students in the back of the room don’t even have a clear view of the trash can (the dream), because there are so many people (obstacles, inequalities, etc.) in their way. After we discuss the game as a class, I facilitate reflective writing. I ask students to consider how this game influenced their thinking and what they would like to learn more about as we progress through the unit.

My other favorite activity involves analyzing political cartoons that comment on the American dream. I have this as a  freebie in my TPT store! I actually do this lesson in the learning stations format, so each cartoon is a different station. A quick Google search will gives you lots of options for cartoons.

Like I said, I am tweaking this unit a bit this year, so stay tuned to my Instagram and this blog because I hope to share the new things I do.

UNIT 2: Hysteria and “The Crucible”

Our first full-length unit is anchored in a study of hysteria through Arthur Miller’s tragedy, “The Crucible.” We analyze the play as an allegory for McCarythism/the Red Scare and focus on Miller’s purpose in writing. 

american literature research project

My other favorite lesson that I do for pre-reading is actually a different simulation called the Dot Activity. Once again, I did not create this, but it’s seriously the BEST way to show students how hysteria unfolds and how individuals were targeted during the Salem Witch Trials and the Red Scare. You can read more about the Dot Activity  here,  but here’s a breakdown: You give students index cards; most are blank, but a few have red dots, and the goal of the game is for students to form groups that are dot-free. You let the students run wild for 5-10 minutes and watch the madness as students quickly begin accusing others. At the end of the time period, the group with the largest number of non-dots wins. If a dot has infiltrated a group, that group is disqualified. Students will get SO into this game, so beware.  Last year, my students got so loud that a neighboring teacher let me know we could be heard beyond the four walls of my room. Whoops!

I have a few changes in the works for this unit, because I am cutting down the time I spend on it in order to make room for some more writing in other units. To accomplish this, I am going to teach “The Crucible” as a literary analysis/film analysis hybrid unit. We will likely watch all of Act 3 and parts of Act 4, pulling in excerpts to supplement the film. I’m a firm believer in the power of film analysis as a tool to scaffold literary analysis. I actually wrote a bit about how I facilitate film analysis in this post about students who  struggle with reading.

UNIT 3: Revolutionary Rhetoric

To study persuasion and argumentation, we analyze the texts and speeches of the American Revolution, as well as more modern texts. Then, students select relevant topics for 1:1 Lincoln-Douglas debates. This year, I am going to incorporate more student choice by providing other options beyond the traditional debate. I’m thinking some kind of multimedia project where students create a website, podcast, PSA, letter to a legislator, etc. Formal debates will still be an option, but I don’t want to force students to debate when they can demonstrate their mastery of the standards in their own unique way that suits their individual learning styles.

My favorite part of this unit is actually my favorite lesson OF ALL TIME:  Speed Debating!  I am not exaggerating when I say this! This is a lesson that gets every single student engaged, which is a rare feat when you teach high school English. It is so student-directed and engaging that you can just float around the room and “watch the magic happen,” as I like to say. 🙂 During this activity, students participate in mini impromptu debates over various topics, some silly and some serious…but all guaranteed to spark some friendly controversy! Students are challenged to use as many rhetorical appeals and devices as possible, and they track their opponents’ use of these strategies as well. If you want more information on speed debating, check out my blog post  here.

Another fun lesson is my Rhetorical Devices Question Trail , an engaging, kinesthetic activity that gets students moving around the room to identify examples of rhetorical devices in songs. A question trail is an activity comprised of different multiple choice “stations” or “spots.” These questions are posted throughout the classroom. At each station, students answer a multiple choice question. Each answer (a, b, c, or d) will send the students to a different station. If students answer each question correctly, they will travel to each station and complete a full circuit. If students answer a question incorrectly, they will eventually find themselves at a station they’ve already completed, which tells them that they need to backtrack. This gives you clear, immediate feedback. You will quickly see who is getting it (“on the trail”) vs. who is not (“off the trail”).

UNIT 4: The Pursuit of Happiness & Transcendentalism

In this unit, we study the traditional Transcendental texts of Emerson and Thoreau before reading Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild . I hook students with another fun “How Transcendental Are You?” Quiz and use learning stations to preview key tenets of Transcendentalism. I also like to show the movie trailer for Into the Wild and ask students to make predictions about the text. I’ve found that Into the Wild is a gem of book that engages some of my most reluctant male readers, especially the outdoorsy types! If you teach Transcendentalism, it’s worth checking out, even if you only use excerpts from the text.  You can check out all of my Transcendentalism products  here and my Into the Wild resources  here.

american literature research project

That wraps up my first semester of teaching American literature. Because this blog post is already long, I will continue with Semester II in a second post. If you’re already planning and want to get a sneak peek at at the rest of my year, here’s a Semester II outline with links to some of my resources:

UNIT 5:  Romanticism

UNIT 6: Synthesis Writing

UNIT 7:  Harlem Renaissance

UNIT 8:  The Great Gatsby

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10 activities for any dystopian novel, 20 comments.

american literature research project

This is awesome! Thank you!

How many weeks would you say you spend on each of these units during first semester?

american literature research project

Hi Abby, I love following you and your work. I will be teaching a course this fall which is the only course we really teach American Lit at the school, but we call it Lang and Lit. We get 1 semester with our 10th graders to cram as much as we can in, then the second semester they move to our Composition class which basically prepares them to write a research paper. Our school’s student project, which is also a graduation requirement, is that they write a research paper during their 11th-grade year on their own using what they learned in the class. They pick a topic complete the paper and give a speech. I have taught this class a couple of times and neither time have I been completely happy about it. Just wondering if you had only a semester to teach what would you do from all of your American Lit curricula. I haven’t really done Gatsby before because the AP teacher likes to do it with her AP students. Just looking for some input from others on their ideas. I loved teaching the Crucible and the Puritan work, a Raisin in the Sun and some of the Civil Rights, I have loved teaching of Mice and Men and To Kill a Mockingbird, but then I feel bad I never get to the poetry and they often miss all of the great American Poets. Any ideas or input would be so appreciated!

american literature research project

I love the idea of the dot game! I’m starting the year with Crucible, so I’ll definitely have to give that a shot.

What is your pacing for the units? About how long do you spend on each one?

american literature research project

These ideas sound awesome.

american literature research project

Thank you so much for sharing this! I’m teaching American Literature for the first time this year, and I’m so excited with your ideas!

american literature research project

You are welcome! Good luck teaching it 🙂

american literature research project

This is SO helpful for me, as I’m about to teach American Lit for the first time. How long do you spend on each unit? Also, how can I see what you do for the last four units?

Pacing varies each year, but usually 3-4 weeks for the American Dream, 5-6 weeks for The Crucible, 4-5 weeks for Revolutionary Rhetoric, and another 4-5 weeks for Transcendentalism/Into the Wild. I hope this helps! All of my American Lit curriculum is available here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Literature-Growing-Bundle-Stations-Activities-Escape-Rooms-MORE-5219425 .

Unfortunately, I haven’t finished the second blog post but I will work on it. 🙂

american literature research project

Thanks for this! I am teaching American Lit for the second time this year and I know I have a LOT to revamp to make it better. I just put together that I bought your Harlem Renaissance bundle last year and really enjoyed using it. Thank you for sharing what you do!

You are so welcome! I am glad to hear that it has helped. 🙂

american literature research project

Hi! Are the political cartoons no longer a freebie? Thanks!!

american literature research project

This is great! I am starting over at a new school this year – teaching 10th and 11th grade. Thank you for sharing. I’m wondering if you have resources for 10th grade as well? Also, what is the pacing for this 11th grade American Literature course?

I don’t have materials specifically designed for 10th grade, but I do have a variety of resources that work with any text. 🙂

american literature research project

Where is your curriculum for a Semester 2 American Lit?

I am still working on that blog post – LOL! I bit off more than I could chew with this. Until it’s ready, you can check out all of my American Lit resources here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Literature-Growing-Bundle-Stations-Activities-Escape-Rooms-MORE-5219425 .

american literature research project

When I found this, I was so relieved. I am going on my 4th year of teaching, but I’m starting at a new school in August and teaching 10th and 11th grade for the first time (I’ve only ever taught 9th). For some reason, I was somewhat intimidated with 11th grade American Lit, but reading this post made me feel excited about the content and I feel inspired to use some of your fun lesson ideas. Thanks so much!!!

Yay! This makes me so happy. I hope everything is going well for you. 🙂

american literature research project

Really curious about your pacing. Sad to see you have not responded to anyone else so I am guessing I will not find out about it! HA. Fingers crossed

Hi there! It’s really difficult to keep up with comments on WordPress because 95% of the comments I receive are spam. They push down all of the regular comments, so I don’t always see them…sorry! Pacing varies each year, but usually 3-4 weeks for the American Dream, 5-6 weeks for The Crucible, 4-5 weeks for Revolutionary Rhetoric, and another 4-5 weeks for Transcendentalism/Into the Wild. I hope this helps! All of my American Lit curriculum is available here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/American-Literature-Growing-Bundle-Stations-Activities-Escape-Rooms-MORE-5219425 .

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Library Databases with Biographies of Writers

  • American National Biography (ANB) This link opens in a new window American National Biography (ANB) contains biographical essays and topical articles on the lives of noteworthy deceased Americans to the present. More information less... There are specially selected collections covering American Indian Heritage, Asian Pacific American Heritage, Black History, Hispanic Heritage, Women's History.
  • Biography in Context This link opens in a new window Online biographical reference database in the fields of literature, science, business, entertainment, politics, sports, history, current events and the arts.Biographical information on over one million people throughout history, around the world.
  • Biography Reference Bank This link opens in a new window Current Biography contains biographical information on approximately half a million people, from antiquity to the present. Dates of coverage: Ancient Times to present.
  • Dictionary of Irish Biography This link opens in a new window The Dictionary of Irish Biography, a collaborative project between Cambridge University Press and the Royal Irish Academy, contains over 9,000 signed biographical articles which describe and assess the careers of subjects in all fields of endeavor, including politics, law, religion, literature, journalism, architecture, painting, music, the stage, science, medicine, engineering, entertainment and sport.
  • Literature Online (LION) This link opens in a new window Literature Online includes full text of literary works in English from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century. It also includes the Annual Bibliography of English Language and Literature, together with biographic and bibliographic reference materials for each author. More information less... A fully searchable library of more than 350,000 works of English and American poetry, drama and prose. LION is the single most extensive and wide-ranging online collection of English and American literature.Resources included in this resource are: Bibliographies Biographies Columbia Companion to the 20th Century American Short Story Columbia Dictionary of Modern European Literature Columbia Dictionary of Modern Literary and Cultural Criticism Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature Concise Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms Encyclopedia of African Literature Encyclopedia of American Poetry: The Nineteenth Century Encyclopedia of Latin American and Caribbean Literature, 1900-2003 Encyclopedia of Linguistics (2 vols.) Encyclopedia of the Novel Handbook of African American Literature New Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry and Poetics Oxford Companion to Irish Literature Penguin Classics Introductions Routledge Encyclopedia of Narrative Theory Routledge Encyclopedia of Post-Colonial Literatures in English (2nd Edition)
  • Literature Resource Center This link opens in a new window Literature Resource Center offers biographical and other background information for research on literary topics, authors, and their works. Its coverage includes all genres and disciplines, all time periods, and all regions of the world. Literature Resource Center's content comes from the Dictionary of Literary Biography, Contemporary Authors, Contemporary Literary Criticism, and more, including full text of selected poems, plays, and short stories.
  • Oxford Dictionary of National Biography This link opens in a new window It is a collection of more than 56,600 specially written biographies, which describe the lives of people who shaped the history of the British Isles and beyond.
  • Twayne's Author Series This link opens in a new window Twayne’s Authors Series offers in-depth introductions to the lives and works of writers, the history and influence of literary movements, and the development of literary genres. The online version of Twayne's Authors Series includes content from six print series, including U.S. Authors, English Writers, and World Authors.

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Literature Dissertation Topics

Published by Carmen Troy at January 9th, 2023 , Revised On February 7, 2023

Introduction

A literature dissertation aims to contextualise themes, ideas, and interests that have grabbed a reader’s interest and attention, giving them a more profound meaning through the movement of time within and outside cultures.

Literature is a comprehensive knowledge of other writers’ views, and to understand them, a student must perform extensive reading and research. A writer coveys their thoughts and ideas through their literary works, including the views and opinions of writers ranging from topics on philosophy , religious preferences, sociology , academics, and psychology .

To help you get started with brainstorming for literature topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest topics that can be used for writing your literature dissertation.

These topics have been developed by PhD qualified writers of our team , so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting  a brief research proposal  from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an  introduction  to the topic,  research question ,  aim and objectives ,  literature review  along with the proposed  methodology  of research to be conducted.  Let us know  if you need any help in getting started.

Check our  dissertation examples  to get an idea of  how to structure your dissertation .

Review the full list of  dissertation topics for 2022 here.

2022 Literature Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: impact of the second language barrier on the social integration of immigrants- a case of chinese nationals migrating to the uk.

Research Aim: This research purposes an analysis to show the impact of the second language barrier on the social integration of Chinese immigrants in the UK. It will analyze how this barrier affects various segments of their lives by limiting their social interactions. Moreover, it will identify ways (language courses, communal support, financial support, etc.) through which government and civil society help these immigrants to overcome this barrier to make them feel inclusive in the UK and play a part in the economy.

Topic 2: The Power of the Writer’s Imagination- A Study Finding the Role of Writer Imagination in the Social Revolution in 19th-Century Europe

Research Aim: This study intends to identify the role of the writer’s imagination in the social revolution in 19 th century Europe. It will show how writers’ imagination is reflected in their writings and how it affects ordinary individuals’ mindsets. It will assess the writings of various authors during the 19 th -century social revolution when Europe replaced the monarchy with democracy. It will show the language used by the authors and its effect on the individuals’ will to achieve democracy.

Topic 3: How does an Accent Develop? An Exploratory Analysis Finding Factors Shaped Various English Accents in the World- A Case of America, Australia, and India

Research Aim: This research will analyze how an accent develops when a language is imported from one region to the other. It will identify how various factors such as culture, norms, politics, religion, etc., affect accent development. And to show this effect, this research will show how the English accent changed when it came to America, Australia, and India. Moreover, it will indicate whether social resistance in these areas affected the accent or was readily accepted.

Topic 4: “Gender Pronouns and their Usage” a New Debate in the Social Linguistics Literature- A Systematic Review of the Past and Present Debates

Research Aim: This study sheds light on a relatively new debate in politics, sociology, and linguistics, which is how to correctly use gender pronouns in all of these contexts. Therefore, this study will explore these areas, but the main focus will be on linguistics. It will review various theories and frameworks in linguistics to show multiple old and new debates on the subject matter. Moreover, a systematic review will determine the correct usage of gender pronouns.

Topic 5: Are Men Portrayed Better in the English Literature? A Feminist Critique of the Old English Literature

Research Aim: This research will analyze whether men are portrayed better in English literature through a feminist lens. It will assess a different kind of English literature, such as poems, essays, novels, etc., to show whether men are portrayed better than women in various contexts. Moreover, it will analyze multiple classical and modern-day writers to see how they use different male and female characters in their literature. Lastly, it will add a feminist perspective on the subject matter by introducing the feminist theory and its portrayal of men and women.

Covid-19 Literature Research Topics

Topic 1: the scientific literature of coronavirus pandemic.

Research Aim: This study will review the scientific literature of Coronavirus pandemic

Topic 2: Literature and the future world after Coronavirus.

Research Aim: This study will reveal the world’s literature predictions after the pandemic.

Topic 3: Coronavirus is a trending topic among the media, writers, and publishers

Research Aim: Covid-19 has disrupted every sector’s health care system and economy. Apart from this, the topic of the Coronavirus has become trending everywhere. This study will highlight whether the information provided about COVID-19 by all the sources is authentic? What kind of misleading information is presented?

Literature Dissertation Topics for 2021

Topic 1: dependence of humans on computers.

Research Aim: This research aims to study the dependence of humans on the computer, its advantages and disadvantages.

Topic 2: Whether or not the death penalty is effective in the current era?

Research Aim: This research aims to identify whether the death penalty is effective in the current era.

Topic 3: Fashion Industry and its impact on people's upward and downward social perception

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the impact on people’s upward and downward social perception

Topic 4: Communication gaps in families due to the emergence of social media

Research Aim: This research aims to address the communication gaps in families due to the emergence of social media and suggest possible ways to overcome them.

Topic 5: Employment and overtime working hours- a comparative study

Research Aim: This research aims to measure the disadvantages of overtime working hours of employees.

Topic 6: Machine translators Vs. human translators

Research Aim: This research aims to conduct a comparative study of machine translators and human translators

Topic 7: Freelancing Vs 9 to 5 jobs- a comparative study

Research Aim: This research aims to compare freelancing jobs with 9 to 5 jobs.

Literature Dissertation Topics for 2020

Topic 1: the effects of everyday use of digital media on youth in the uk..

Research Aim: Digital media is a normal part of a person’s life. In this research, the aim is to examine and analyse; how young people between the ages of 15-25 in the UK engage with digital media. The study includes the amount of time interaction occurs and the role of time-space, time elasticities, and online/offline intersections.

Topic 2: Critical analysis of the teenager protagonist in “The Room on the Roof” written by Ruskin Bond.

Research Aim: Many Indian writers and children’s book authors regard Ruskin Bond as an icon. This research will systematically study the alienated teenage protagonist in Ruskin’s “The Room on the Roof” and how Ruskin evolved the character gradually throughout the novel. The way Ruskin used this protagonist to reflect his feelings and convey them to the reader.

Topic 3: Promotion of women empowerment through mass media in Nepal.

Research Aim: The primary purpose of this study is to analyse the role of mass media, including audio, print, and audio-visual, in the empowerment of women in the Nepal region. It also discusses the development of mass media in Nepal and spreading awareness of women’s empowerment.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service , which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service !

Seventeenth and Eighteenth-Century Literature Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: eighteenth-century british literature..

Research Aim: This study aims to study the evolution of modern British literature compared to eighteenth-century literature. This research will focus on the genre of comedy only. The research will discuss the causes of laughter in the eighteenth century compared to things that cause laughter in modern times.

Topic 5: A systematic study of Chaucer’s Miller’s tale.

Research Aim: This research aims to take a closer look at Chaucer’s heavily censored story, “The Miller’s Tale.” It seeks to look at why “The Miller’s Tale” is criticised and categorised as obscene and unfit for a general read. The study will analyse the writer’s writing style, language, and method for the research paper.

Topic 3: Understanding 17th-century English culture using a model of Francis Bacon’s idea.

Research Aim: This research aims to take a more in-depth look into Francis Bacon’s idea of modern economic development. To conduct the study, machine learning processes will be implemented to examine Francis’s ideas and their implementations in contemporary times.

Topic 4: The relation between early 18th-century English plays and The emerging financial market.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the relationship between eighteenth-century plays and a flourishing financial market. Most theatrical plays were written and performed in the middle of the 1720s, but writing carried out contributed to the financial market.

Topic 5: Issues of climate change used in early English literature: Shakespeare’s View of the sky.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse climate change’s impact on early English writings. Climatic issues were faced even in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, providing writers with another topic to add to their published work. This research will focus on the work of Shakespeare, in which he included the specifics of climate change.

Also Read: Medicine and Nursing Dissertation Topics Free

Nineteenth-Century Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: impact of nineteenth-century gothic vampire literature on female members of the gothic subculture..

Research Aim: This research will look at the introduction of gothic vampire literature and its impact on female members of the gothic subculture. It includes a complete analysis of writing style and the impression it left of the female readers’.

Topic 2: Women theatre managers and the theatre in the late nineteenth century.

Research Aim: This research aims to view the impact on theatres under the management of women theatre managers. The improvement to theatre shows, along with the hardships faced by some managers, is discussed. The proposed study analyses the categories of theatre plays.

Topic 3: The history of American literature.

Research Aim: This research aims to give a brief history of American literature’s development and evolution throughout the centuries. The timeline begins from the early 15th century to the late 19th century. Word variations, sentence structures, grammar, and written impressions will be analysed.

Topic 4: “New women” concept in the novels of Victorian age English writers.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse women’s position in the early nineteenth and how later Victorian writers used their work to give women a new identity. The method employed by these writers who wrote from a feminist point of view will also be discussed.

Topic 5: Discussing the role of the writer in their own story.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the form in which the writer reveals their presence to the reader. The methods can be achieved directly or use the characters to replace themselves in the narrative. The study observes the phrases, vocabulary, and situations the writer uses to narrate.

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Twentieth Century Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: effect of gender association in modern literature..

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the issue of gender association in twentieth-century literature. Currently, male characters are described in a more masculine term than before in comparison to female counterparts. This research will also explore the possible approach of the possible characterisation of the two genders.

Topic 2: Feminism and literature.

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse the impacts of feminism on modern English literature quality. The study will look into the ideology of feminism and how feminist thoughts impact the readers’ view.

Topic 3: Modern literature based on climate change and eco-themes.

Research Aim: This research will study the various works of writers who tackled climate change and other eco-themes in their work. The study discusses the way they portrayed the item along with their views on preventing climate change. Modern work is compared to the work of previous writers who wrote about climate change.

Topic 4: How are fathers portrayed in modern literature?

Research Aim: This research will study the role of fathers in modern literature. The way the father character is portrayed in recent times has changed compared to writing in the early centuries. This research will look into the evolution of the father figure over time.

Topic 5: Literature for Asian American children.

Research Aim: This research will examine the fusion of classic American literature and Asian literature for children. The different genera’s that are produced and the style of writing will be analysed.

Also Read: Free Law Dissertation Topics

Children’s Literature Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: the influence of the intersection of race and bullying in children’s books..

Research Aim: This research will analyse the literature made for children from 2015 to 2019 in which the intersection between race and bullying is made. The study will evaluate the impact of literature read by a child in which there is bullying. Various picture books are analysed to observe the influence of racism on bullying.

Topic 2: Diversity of culture in children’s literature.

Research Aim: This research will observe the influence of the various cultural aspects of children’s books. The study will analyse the impact of mixed cultures on literature in a community and how it affects children’s mindsets from a young age.

Topic 3: The use of literature to shape a child's mind.

Research Aim: This research will analyse the effects of literature on a child’s mind. Behaviour, intelligence, and interactions between children and their age fellows are to be observed. A child’s behaviour with adults will also be analysed.

Topic 4: Evolution of children's literature.

Research Aim: This research will explore the change in children’s literature trends. This research will compare the literary work from the mid-nineteen century with modern-day children’s books. Differences in vocabulary, sentence structure, and mode of storytelling will be examined.

Topic 5: Racial discrimination in “the cat in the hat” impacts children’s racial views.

Research Aim: This research will take an in-depth analysis of the children’s story, “The Cat in the Hat,” to observe if it has any racial remarks which cause an increase in racism among children. The words used and the pictures found on the page will be thoroughly analysed, and their impact on the children reading it.

Topic 6: Measuring the nature of a child’s early composing.

Research Aim: This research will analyse the development of a child’s writing skills based on the type of books they read. The book’s genera, vocabulary, and the writing style of the child’s preferred book will be considered.

Topic 7: Use of a classroom to incorporate multicultural children’s literature.

Research Aim: This research will reflect on the potential use of a school classroom to promote multicultural literature for children. Since a classroom is filled with children of different cultural backgrounds, it becomes easier to introduce multicultural literature. The difficulties and the advantages to society in the incorporation of multicultural literature in classrooms are discussed.

Important Notes:

As literature looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment with existing literature theories – i.e., to add value and interest to your research topic.

The literature field is vast and interrelated to many other academic disciplines like linguistics , English literature and more. That is why creating a literature dissertation topic that is particular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field is imperative.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic based on your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, and there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation , as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best literature dissertation topics that fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample literature dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Literature Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

  • A Title Page
  • Acknowledgements
  • Declaration
  • Abstract: A summary of the research completed
  • Table of Contents
  • Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
  • Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths whilst identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic and key terms that can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
  • Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter, which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and data analysis strategy .
  • Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs, charts, and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
  • Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section of the paper is to link the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
  • References : Your University’s requirements should complete this
  • Bibliography
  • Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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Native American and Chicano Literature - Assignment Details

Native American and Chicano Literature                                                              Majerus

Spring 2015                                                                                                               

Research Project

Your first major assignment is a research project that will take one of two forms. Your options:

Write a historical research paper that illuminates some aspect of Native-American and/or Mexican-American history and culture. Your essay should take a position on a significant issue related to the topic or make a connection to literature and/or the arts.

Create a multi-media project that explores some aspect of Native American or Chicano history and/or culture. Find an aspect of Native American or Chicano history/culture that you’re interested in, research it, become an expert, and then present your newfound expertise in a format that educates others and makes a connection to the arts.

For option 1 , you’ll need to offer your readers a clear, coherent introduction to your topic and make us familiar with the information, ideas, issues, and complexities most crucial to understanding the topic’s significance. You should draw your information from at least five different credible sources (either print, online, or multimedia), quoting from all of them and drawing extensively on at least three . You can choose to either take some position in relation to your topic (for example, if you’re looking at the history of Native American mascots in sports, it would make sense to express your informed opinion on their recent decline and/or continued existence in American sports), or make a connection to literature or the arts (for example, if you’ve researched Dia de los Muertos traditions in Mexico and the US, you might explore how Day of the Dead iconography has influenced particular Mexican-American artists, writers, etc.)

Option 2 will revolve around writing and will require you to use all the skills that writing requires – brainstorming, organizing, thinking, processing, thinking some more, composing, rearranging, and revising – but the final project may or may not be a piece of writing per se. You should present your findings, observations, and arguments in the form of a vehicle for public education . One strategy for educating the public is to appeal to the senses as well as the intellect. As such, you should offer information in at least two different forms (some possible forms would be ideas and arguments expressed in writing, ideas and arguments expressed in graphic form, ideas or examples in the form of film images, illustrations in the form of still images, ideas and arguments expressed in sound, and information or examples in the form of music).

To put it more simply, your project should be presented in the form of both words (presented either in written or audio form) and images or illustrations (presented with still images, moving images, graphics, and/or music). Your final product could take the form of any public education genre or tool that you can think of or imagine, including but not limited to: A pamphlet, an informational web site, an informational poster, a wiki, a blog, a brief documentary film, a brief radio documentary, a teacher’s resource guide, a children’s non-fiction book, or an essay supplemented by visual and/or auditory illustrations. You should draw from at least five different credible sources in creating this final product, incorporating information and/or images from all of them in some way.

What form you choose to present your findings in will depend in part on your technical expertise and interests. You need not have your own personal audio-visual equipment; you may draw on resources we have at Uni if you’re interested in creating an audio or audio-visual project. In terms of topics, the field is quite open. You may pursue information on any aspect of Native American or Mexican-American culture, history, or identity that connects to the arts or that could inform the study of Native American or Chicano art, literature, or music. Here are a few ideas, (some of which you’d want to refine into a more focused area of research once you began to learn more):

The American Indian Movement

The Native American Literary Renaissance

Indian Boarding Schools and their legacies in twentieth- and twenty-first-century Indian culture and life

Indian languages – the history, current state, and cultural import of one, several, or many indigenous languages of North America and/or efforts to save languages

The history of powwows and their cultural significance in modern American Indian life

Representations of Indians in children’s books

Fraudulent “Indian” authors and the phenomenon of non-Indians claiming fictitious Indian ancestry or identity

Indian mascots and controversies regarding the use of Indian names, symbols, and/or caricatures for the names or symbols of sports teams

Native music and instrumentation; or, Indian artists in contemporary popular music

Connections and/or collaborations between Indian and Chicano people, communities, artists, and/or activists

The Chicano Movement

Some possible topics within or related to the Chicano Movement:

Political activism

The role of students in Chicano activism

The Chicano Arts Movement (possibly including a specific focus on mural painting or graffiti art)

The history and significance of Chicano studies in higher education

The history of the term “Chicano” and the significance of its embrace and/or rejection by Mexican-American people

The Virgin of Guadalupe as a religious and cultural icon

Chicano rock and/or rap

Bilingual education

Chicano culinary culture – the evolution of Mexican-American food, its regional subcultures, and its cultural significance

Chicano fashion (e.g. the Zoot suit, pachuco/a style), its cultural &/or political significance

Chicano labor struggles (as a whole or in relation to specific unions such as the United Farm Workers, Justice for Janitors/Service Employees International Union, and/or the International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union)

Whatever form your project for option 2 ends up taking, it should offer the following: 1. Information on your topic and a general introduction to the most important ideas, issues, people, and/or events related to the topic.  2. An argument or implicit argument relating to the cultural and/or historical context of the information you’re presenting.  3. Some connection to one or more art forms (literature, visual art, dance, film, storytelling, music).

For both option 1 and option 2 , you need to choose and commit (provisionally) to a topic for your project by Wednesday, February 4. Your rough draft (or some significant report on your work-in-progress, depending on your genre) is due for peer workshopping (or work-in-progress feedback) on Tuesday, February 24. Your final project is due on Tuesday, March 3 .

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Literature Research and Passion Project Ideas for High School Students

Jin Chow with Tree Background

By Jin Chow

Co-founder of Polygence, Forbes 30 Under 30 for Education

5 minute read

Are you the type of person who is fascinated by literary texts? If you absorb yourself into different writings to gain a better understanding of that time period, or if you enjoy researching things to find new information to share with the world, you’re well on your way to becoming a literary scholar!

Consider taking your love for literature to the next level by using your passion to create something tangible!

10 Creative Project Ideas for Literature

1. art interpreting art: where one medium meets another.

They say that there is a relationship between all things creative. What is the connection between music and literature? Explore the concept behind the combination of these two different art forms and how they go hand in hand.  

Idea by English and literature mentor R.J.

2. Who's the real hero of the Odyssey?

For this project, you will start by reading Homer's Odyssey before taking a deeper dive into your findings of that specific time period. Compare the definition of what a “hero” is today versus what a “hero” was in the eyes of the Ancient Greeks. Re-evaluate the gods within the story and decide for yourself who the actual hero is! 

Idea by English and literature mentor Sydnie

3. At the crossroads of literature and anthropology

Visit a museum and choose any collection that stands out to you the most! Once chosen, research the history behind the collection. When was the time period? What is the story behind the collection? Who was involved? You can add your research to the museum’s archives, write a paper, or whatever else you’d like to do using your findings! 

Idea by English and literature mentor Will

4. Literature, violence, trauma    

Create your own literature course that revolves around a major historical event. The course will allow you to take a deeper dive into a mass shooting, a war, 9/11, or whatever event you would like to choose. 

Idea by English and literature mentor Anne-Marie

Explore the Fine Arts through research

Polygence pairs you with an expert mentor in your area of passion: literature, drama, film making, theatre, writing, poetry. Together, you create a high quality research project that is uniquely your own. We also offer options to explore multiple topics, or to showcase your final product!

5. Literary magazine concept design

Are you a fan of literary magazines? If so, why not create one yourself?! To begin, gain a deeper understanding of the foundation needed to create your magazine by analyzing others! Do some digging and take note of the funding required, writings found within the overall design, and other important aspects revolving around magazine creation. Once you have a better understanding of how the process works, get to work on your own. 

Idea by English and literature mentor Margarita  

6. What is "Asian American" literature?

Does Asian American literature need to revolve around Asian American characters? Does the piece actually need to be written by an Asian American author? The question at hand is, what distinguishes “Asian American” literature from literature? Read through writings that are categorized as Asian American literature to gain an understanding of what they all have in common. Write a research paper on your findings. 

Idea by English and literature mentor Jennifer

7. Women in the Hebrew Bible

Choose a few stories from the Hebrew Bible that revolve around women. Analyze these stories to determine the type of women portrayed in each. For example, did the women at hand value being mothers?, cheat on their husbands?, save the day?, receive neglect? Using your findings, describe what the Hebrew Bible tells us about a woman’s place in these times. How does that compare to today?

Idea by English and literature mentor Danielle

8. Literary analysis

Analyze a text of your choice! Slowly work your way through the text to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning, characters, setting, etc. The goal of this project is to write an analytical essay to submit to essay contests, academic journals, and more! 

Idea by English and literature mentor Caitlin 

9. What difference does translation make?

Is literary translation still valuable today? Because we live in a time of instant translation, it could seem irrelevant but let’s put this to the test! Choose a text that you would like to analyze and compare both instant and published translations. Compare the two to determine if the human interpretation takes the lead! 

Idea by English and literature mentor Hector  

10. The ins and outs of literary analysis

Analyze an author of your choice in order to create your own analytical piece. While reading through your author’s work, take note of themes, narrative style, and more in order to depict both similarities and differences within their work. This project will leave you with a thorough understanding of how a literary scholar thinks! 

Idea by English and literature mentor Jin 

Partner With Polygence on Your Literature Passion Project

If any of these projects in literature pique your interest, or you have an idea on which topic you’d like to explore further, sign up with Polygence to get matched with a mentor and start working on your project!

Work with an expert mentor to explore your passion

At Polygence, we precisely match you with a mentor in your area of interest. Together, you can explore and deepen your passions.

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Get Matched with a Mentor

Interested in doing one of these exciting research projects? Click below to get matched with one of our expert mentors!

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  10. PAL: Perspectives in American Literature: A Research and Reference

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    Polygence pairs you with an expert mentor in your area of passion: literature, drama, film making, theatre, writing, poetry. Together, you create a high quality research project that is uniquely your own. We also offer options to explore multiple topics, or to showcase your final product! Explore the program. 5. Literary magazine concept design.