I have to do a research paper on Elizabeth Barrett Browning and her works (Sonnet 43 & 14). I understand the poems but I do not have a clue on what to write about. I have no topic other than E.B. Browning and Sonnets 14 & 43. Any suggestions? I appreciate any and everything!

Sonnet 14-If Thou Must Love Me, Let It Be For Nought
Sonnet 43-How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count The Ways

P.S. The paper must be 8-10 typed pages, 12 font, 2 weeks till due date! I need a lot of information!

Candice, you can use up a couple pages by describing what a sonnet is and how these two fine examples illustrate the best in that genre. From there you should start by using an outline such as this one:


Decide on the theme of your essay first, after having read both poems and knowing what they both say. The statement of your theme should be in the introduction of your essay. You might say something such as this: " Both of these poems deal with the subject of love..." Then go on to tell the reader what topics you will discuss. Divide the essay into several different topics. For instance:

1. Subject matter
2. Rhyme pattern/or lack of same
3. Language (common, superior, inferior, )
4. Tone (serious, jovial, friendly, respectful)
5. Connotation/meaning (both real and suggested)
6. Effect on the reader (emotions triggered by the poems)




Use examples from each of the poems to illustrate how they compare/or contrast on each of these points. Be specific, quote lines from the poem(s) to give the reader a better idea of what you're talking about. The more specific you are in giving examples, the easier it will be to write a specified number of words for the assignment. Because these poems are by the same author, style should be covered in the introduction, especially if you decide to follow my suggestion of describing to your reader what a sonnet is. Good luck with your assignment. Let us know how it turns out.


Les

ok I will let you know how it turns out. Thanks so much for the information! That really helps me in figuring out what I will write about! I don't know what I would have done without you Les! Thank you so much! I believe your info. will work!!!!