Literary Analysis Essay Writing

Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Cathy A.

Interesting Literary Analysis Essay Topics & Ideas

15 min read

literary analysis essay topics

On This Page

Good Literary Analysis Essay Topic Ideas

How to choose a literary analysis essay topic , tips to write a compelling literary analysis essay.

You’re a literature student, and you’ve been assigned to work on a literature analysis essay, but you’re not sure which topic to go for. It’s a tricky situation!

We understand that choosing a worthy topic for a literary analysis essay is never an easy task. But don’t you worry!

For literature students, we know the importance of drafting an excellent literary analysis essay . And for an exceptional essay, one needs a standout topic.

That’s why in this blog, we have gathered more than 200 exciting and interesting literary analysis essay ideas for you to get started. 

Read on! 

If you are a high school or a college student, and you’re having difficulty coming up with a good topic for your essay, choose from the topic list below.  

Literary Analysis Essay Topics Middle School

  • The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane 
  • Reservation Blues by Sherman Alexie
  • Harry Potter’s powers in the Harry Potter novels by J.K. Rowling 
  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee 
  • Allegory in Lord Byron’s Vision of Judgement 
  • Impact of Henry Miller and Gordon Byron’s life on their legacy 
  • Comparative analysis of Dickens VS Thackeray 
  • Canterbury Tales VS Decameron 
  • The irony in Jerome’s stories
  • Mood expressions in Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for High School

  • The representation of justice in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Analyze the theme of friendship in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men
  • Explore the theme of identity in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series
  • The role of nature in Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights
  • Discuss the concept of heroism in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings
  • The use of foreshadowing in George Orwell's Animal Farm
  • The representation of mental health in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar
  • The impact of war on individuals in Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried
  • The use of symbolism and allegory in Lois Lowry's The Giver
  • Discuss the role of cultural identity in Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club

Order Essay

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Literary Analysis Essay Topics For College

  • Literary devices used in The Night by Elie Wiesel 
  • The portrayal of the escape theme in Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer 
  • The evolution of Celie's character in 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker
  • Jane Austen's critique of social class and marriage in Pride and Prejudice
  • Shed light on the theme of chaos in Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Examine the historical events of World War II and their significance in Elie Wiesel's “Night.”
  • The power of love in The Princess Bride by William Goldman 
  • The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain 
  • Presentation of dreams in Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck 
  • The Rocking Horse Winner by D.H. Lawrence 

Literary Analysis Essay Prompts in Classics

  • The portrayal of fate in Romeo and Juliet 
  • The portrayal of love in Romeo and Juliet 
  • Concept of mortality in Shakespeare’s play Hamlet 
  • Misogyny in Hamlet 
  • Witchcraft in Shakespeare’s play Macbeth 
  • The tragic flaws and character development of King Lear in William Shakespeare's play
  • The philosophical underpinnings of justice and governance in Plato's 'The Republic
  • Exploring the theme of civil disobedience and consequences in Sophocles' 'Antigone’
  • Exploring the conflict between illusion and reality in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'
  • The complex character relationships and moral dilemmas in 'Montana' by Larry Watson

Social Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Social injustice in Oliver Twist 
  • Ethnicity in Burmese Days by Orwell
  • Torture and injustice in Night by Elie Wiesel
  • Vanity Fair - the culture of the 19th century according to Thackeray 
  • The portrayal of the Civil Western Society in Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
  • The role of women in society in the 18th Century according to Jane Austen 
  • Escape from society and its rules in Into the Wild by John Krakauer 
  • The place of women in the society in Hamlet 
  • Social status of women in the 17th century portrayed by Jane Austen in Emma 
  • The wrongs of the modern society in Fight Club by Palahniuk 

War and Peace Topics for Literary Analysis Essay

  • The portrayal of war and violence in the poems of Stephen Crane
  • Literary works during WWI
  • War setting in Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
  • The depiction of war in Homer’s plays
  • Toni Morrison’s views on the civil war
  • The war between demons and angels in Paradise Lost
  • War in the Mother Courage and Her Child by Bertolt Brecht
  • The portrayal of war and peace by George Orwell
  • Concept of war in A Fable by Faulkner
  • Steinbeck’s presentation of injustice in The Grapes of Wrath

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Movies

  • Comparison between the book and film “Sense and Sensibility.” 
  • The portrayal of women in the “Little Women.” 
  • Imitation of society and class in “The Great Gatsby.”
  • The ideas of love and trust in “Can You Ever Forgive Me?” 
  • The good and evil in “A Wrinkle in Time.” 
  • Feminity in Sense and Sensibility 
  • The role of Saruman and Gandalf 
  • Spirituality and religion in “Lord of the Flies.” 
  • Oskar’s struggle to find a sense of home in “The Tin Drum.”
  • Jealousy and male pride in “The Dead.” 

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for the Subject of Race

  • “Waiting for the Barbarians” by J.M. Coetzee
  • Race and Injustice in Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird
  • Race and fellowship in Melville’s Moby Dick
  • “Under The Feet Of Jesus”
  • Description of culture and tradition in “Girl” by Jamaica Kincaid
  • Interracial relationship in Back to Life by Wendy Coakley
  • Bridge of Scarlet Leaves by McMorris
  • The Art Of Love by Hong Ying
  • Multiculturalism in the Captain Underpants series by Dev Pilkey
  • Imitation of slavery in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

General Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Focalization techniques in When I Lay Dying
  • Historical background of Duma’s Novels
  • The use of imagery in Walt Whitman’s works
  • Male and female characters in Beowulf
  • Character analysis of Emmy in Vanity Fair
  • Character analysis of Rebeca in Vanity Fair
  • The complicated relationship between mother and daughter in Beloved
  • Beauty standards in The Bluest Eye
  • Comparison in the portrayal of death by Keats and Blake
  • The idea of death in Renaissance literature

1984 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Roles of genders in the novel
  • What role does the Ministry of Truth play in the story?
  • The theme of subversion of love in 1984
  • The importance of memory in 1984
  • Totalitarian society in George Orwell's 1984
  • Analyze the role O'Brien plays in Winston's life
  • An in-depth analysis of the novel 1984 by George Orwell
  • How is the historical background reflected in 1984?
  • Lack of privacy in 1984
  • Propaganda and totalitarianism in Orwell’s “1984”

Hamlet Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • A theme of revenge in Hamlet
  • Explore Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia
  • Explore Hamlet’s mental state
  • Discuss Hamlet's relationship with Gertrude
  • Ghost in Hamlet
  • Was Hamlet truly mad?
  • Is Hamlet a villain or a hero?
  • How does Shakespeare present the idea of madness in Hamlet?
  • Is Hamlet’s love for Ophelia genuine?
  • Tragedies in Hamlet VS Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Discuss the development of characters during the play
  • Examine the role of women in Romeo and Juliet.
  • What is the role of history in Romeo and Juliet?
  • Analyze the Romeo and Juliet play
  • Romeo and Juliet: Fate or Free Will?
  • Why did Juliet warn of danger?
  • Rosaline in Romeo and Juliet
  • The love language of Romeo and Juliet
  • A fate analysis essay on Romeo and Juliet
  • The death of Romeo and Juliet

Macbeth Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Macbeth’s mental state
  • The role of morality in the play “Macbeth”
  • Describe the use of figurative language in Macbeth
  • The symbolism of blood in Macbeth
  • Applying imagery in Macbeth to advance the story
  • Lady Macbeth character analysis
  • What role did social hierarchies play in the play?
  • Analysis of gender roles in Macbeth
  • Role of women in Macbeth by William Shakespeare
  • Is Lady Macbeth a dominant heroine?

Beowulf Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Why is Beowulf a work of Christian propaganda?
  • What is the main idea of the story?
  • The meaning of rings in Beowulf
  • Which of Beowulf's fights was most heroic?
  • How do Beowulf’s heroic qualities affect the story?
  • Discuss the digression's role in Beowulf
  • Analyze the significance of the mead hall in Beowulf.
  • The difference between Beowulf and Modern-Day Heroes
  • Beowulf’s personality traits in the epic story
  • Analysis of Beowulf's symbols and their importance

Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Analyze what fire is trying to symbolize.
  • Frankenstein: The theme of guilt
  • Discuss any romantic elements in “Frankenstein”
  • The family relationship in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
  • Who is more human, Frankenstein or the monster?
  • Romantic and gothic Frankenstein elements
  • Sacrifices for ambitions in the novel Frankenstein
  • Relationship between Victor and Frankenstein
  • Romanticism in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
  • Family Values and Frankenstein

The Great Gatsby Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Discuss the novel as a cautionary tale
  • The meaning of wealth in the novel
  • What is the novel’s title meaning?
  • Explain how the novel demonstrates the characteristics of modernism
  • Explore the symbolism of the “green light” in “The Great Gatsby”
  • Discuss the role of women in the 1920s society as portrayed in “The Great Gatsby”
  • Dreams are the main theme in “The Great Gatsby”
  • What makes The Great Gatsby great?
  • The Great Gatsby: Winter Thoughts
  • What role does money play in Fitzgerald’s novel?

The Crucible Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Relate the Crucible to modern society
  • Analyze the most important theme of 'The Crucible.'
  • What are the dynamics of puritanism?
  • Examine the importance of religion in 1953 in work
  • The use of fear tactics in “The Crucible”
  • John Hale in The Crucible
  • Morality and The Crucible
  • The Crucible Critical Lens
  • The sinful confessions in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible

Fahrenheit 451 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • History of the Fireman in Fahrenheit 451
  • Discuss the roles of both nature and technology play in Fahrenheit 451
  • The use of Parallelism in Fahrenheit 451
  • Analyze the three parts of Fahrenheit 451
  • Discuss the dual image of fire in the novel
  • How relevant is Fahrenheit 451 today?
  • The role of Clarisse McClellan in “Fahrenheit 451”
  • Analyze Mildred Montag
  • Discuss the usage of literary quotes in Fahrenheit 451
  • Examine the novel's main title

Literary Analysis Essay Topics For Othello

  • Examine the portrayal of women in ‘Othello’
  • A true reason for Othello's demise
  • Consider Othello’s suicide
  • The real motives of Iago in Othello
  • Women's roles in Shakespeare’s Othello and Hamlet
  • Gender roles and racism in “Othello”
  • Discuss Othello's relationship
  • Analysis of The Film “Othello” By Oliver Parker
  • Explore themes of love and betrayal within Shakespeare's work of literature, “Othello”
  • How was Emilia treated by the men in the play “Othello”?

Lord of The Flies Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • The symbolism of the conch shell and its significance in the novel
  • Analyze the themes of civilization versus savagery in “Lord of the Flies”
  • Explore the character development of Ralph and Jack in the story
  • Discuss the role of fear and the “beast” in the boys' descent into chaos
  • The portrayal of innate human nature and its consequences on the deserted island
  • Analyze the role of Piggy and his glasses as symbols of knowledge and reason
  • Analyze the use of irony in the story and its implications for the characters
  • Discuss the themes of power and leadership in the struggle for dominance
  • Examine the relationship between the boys' names and their personalities
  • The role of the island's setting in shaping the events and characters of the story

Literary Analysis Essay Topics For The Catcher In The Rye

  • Analyze the novel from the perspective of Bildungsroman
  • Analyze literary devices used in “The Catcher in the Rye”
  • Discuss the theme of death in the novel
  • Analyze the theme of self-discovery from the novel
  • Describe the story's topic of loneliness
  • Analyze growing up in the novel
  • Why does Holden love the Museum of Natural History?
  • The Role of Dialogue in The Catcher in the Rye
  • Describe the novel's portrayal of phoniness and naivety
  • Describe the character of Holden

Interesting Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • War, existentialism, and love in “A Farewell to Arms”
  • Sense of Sin in The Scarlet Letter 
  • Analyze the use of biblical allusions and religious symbolism in William Golding's novels
  • Analyze the symbolism of the “white whale” in Melville's work of literature, “Moby-Dick”
  • Lies and deceit in “The Godfather” 
  • Analyze the portrayal of fear and the human psyche in William Golding's novels
  • The symbols used to describe nature by William Wordsworth
  • Comparison between urban and rural settings of nature in the dystopia of Huxley
  • Decay and revival in post-apocalyptic novels
  • A religious and spiritual journey in “Jude the Obscure”

Now that you have the liberty to choose from a wide range of literary analysis example topics, you could use some help on how to opt for a good topic. 

To select a good and worthy topic for your literary analysis essay, follow the tips provided below:

  • Always go for an interesting topic for an engaging piece of paper
  • Look for an idea with available research material to support your analysis
  • Ensure your topic allows for an in-depth analysis rather than a surface-level summary
  • Choose an idea that challenges you to think critically and make meaningful connections
  • Avoid overly broad topics; instead, focus on a specific aspect or element of the work.
  • Choose an idea that best reflects your stance on the chosen work.
  • Analyze the topic deeply before you start writing about it
  • Balance personal interest with the potential appeal to your target audience
  • Make sure that the theme of the work is visible in your essay topic 

Here are some tips for you to pen down a compelling literary analysis essay!

Essay writing is an essential part of academics. Students always require some tips and tricks to draft perfect essays and score good grades.

To make your literary analysis essay impeccable, follow the tips provided below:

  • Thoroughly read the chosen literary work
  • Identify the main themes, settings, and characters
  • Understand the purpose of the work 
  • Pay attention to the tools and techniques used by the author to deliver the message
  • Pick an interesting literary analytical essay topic for your essay.
  • To write an analytical essay effectively, draft a perfect literary analysis essay outline
  • Develop a strong thesis statement 
  • Craft strong topic sentences to guide and structure your analysis effectively
  • Prove and support all your statements using phrases and quotes from work
  • Write your literary essay from the third-person perspective
  • Write in the present tense
  • Avoid writing a plot summary of the work
  • Use multiple literary terms to write your essay professionally
  • Always cite properly

Literary Analysis Essay Example

To sum it up , writing a literary analysis essay can be extremely daunting if your analyzing abilities are weak. From selecting the right literary analysis topic to writing a conclusion for your essay, the process is lengthy.

To score well in academics, get a professional’s help drafting your essays. MyPerfectWords.com is an expert essay writing service that provides top-level assistance and guidance to students. 

Our experienced and credible writers will deliver you a literary analysis essay while strictly sticking to your requirements. 

Just say " write my essays online " and let us help you ease your writing woes!

Cathy A.

Cathy has been been working as an author on our platform for over five years now. She has a Masters degree in mass communication and is well-versed in the art of writing. Cathy is a professional who takes her work seriously and is widely appreciated by clients for her excellent writing skills.

Get Help

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay - A Step-by-Step Guide

literary analysis essay writing

Literary Analysis Essay Outline - A Step By Step Guide

literary analysis essay outline

  • Write my thesis
  • Thesis writers
  • Buy thesis papers
  • Bachelor thesis
  • Master's thesis
  • Thesis editing services
  • Thesis proofreading services
  • Buy a thesis online
  • Write my dissertation
  • Dissertation proposal help
  • Pay for dissertation
  • Custom dissertation
  • Dissertation help online
  • Buy dissertation online
  • Cheap dissertation
  • Dissertation editing services
  • Write my research paper
  • Buy research paper online
  • Pay for research paper
  • Research paper help
  • Order research paper
  • Custom research paper
  • Cheap research paper
  • Research papers for sale
  • Thesis subjects
  • How It Works

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 .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

  • 120 Literary Essay Topics

Students may be assigned a literary analysis essay when taking an English, literature, or writing class. This essay aims to analyze a particular work or body of work within the context of literature.

Students giving this type of writing assignment often find that while they can understand the texts being studied, they have difficulty putting their thoughts about them into words. This can be frustrating because literary analysis requires both interpretation and evaluation, two skills that can be challenging to put on paper.

Fortunately, we’ve created an expert guide to help students write the best literary analysis essay possible. Additionally, we’ve included 120 literary analysis essay topics that offer a wide range of interesting options for students to choose from.

What Does Analysis Mean?

While students may have written essays with different purposes in the past, a literary analysis essay asks them to take a different approach. When students engage in literary analysis, they explore the text deeply and in detail. They are not simply summarizing the plot or retelling the story. Instead, they are looking at the how and why of the text, delving into its deeper meaning.

Students must learn how to go beyond simple surface-level analysis and move towards a more complex understanding of the text. This can be achieved by asking the right questions, such as:

  • How does the author use literary devices?
  • What is the author’s purpose in writing this text?
  • What are the underlying themes in the text?
  • What does the text reveal about the author’s point of view?

Answering these questions can help students move beyond simply understanding a text to being able to analyze it effectively.

Types of Literary Analysis Essays

There are three common types of literary analysis essays that students may be asked to write. Each has its own unique purpose and focus.

Character Analysis

In a character analysis, students are asked to analyze a character from a literary work. This could be a protagonist, an antagonist, or a minor character. This type of essay aims to help students understand the role that characters play in a work of literature. To do this effectively, students must pay close attention to how the author develops the character throughout the text.

For example, if a student were asked to write a character analysis of Jay Gatsby from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, they would need to consider how Gatsby is developed throughout the novel. This might involve looking at how Fitzgerald uses symbolism, narration, and dialogue to reveal things about Gatsby’s character.

Theme Analysis

A theme analysis essay focuses on a work of literature’s central theme. The purpose of this type of essay is to help students understand the theme’s role in the work as a whole. To do this effectively, students need to identify the work’s major themes and understand how they are developed throughout the course of the text.

For example, if students were asked to write a theme analysis of J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, they might identify the book’s central themes of teenage angst and rebellion. They would then need to examine how these themes are developed throughout the course of the novel.

Symbolism Analysis

A symbolism analysis essay focuses on how a work of literature uses symbols to represent ideas or themes. The purpose of this type of essay is to help students understand how symbols are used to convey ideas and messages in a work of literature. To do this effectively, students need to be able to identify the work’s major symbols and understand their significance.

For example, suppose a student was asked to write a symbolism analysis of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. In that case, they might examine the ways in which the green light, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, and the valley of ashes function as symbols in the novel.

How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay

When writing a literary analysis essay, it is important to be sure that you are clear about your thesis statement. Your thesis statement is the main point of your essay and should be concise and easy to understand. Some good examples of thesis statements for literary analysis essays include:

“In The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger uses symbols to represent the teenage experience.”

“Fitzgerald’s use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby reveals the theme of the corruption of the American dream.”

Once you have your thesis statement, you will need to support it with evidence from the text. This could be done through the use of quotes, examples, or other types of evidence. Be sure that you are clear on what your evidence is and how it supports your thesis.

Another important aspect of writing a literary analysis essay is organization. Your essay should be well-organized and flow smoothly from point to point. Each body paragraph should have a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph and supporting evidence to back it up. Be sure to transition smoothly between paragraphs to make your essay easy to follow.

Finally, the conclusion of your essay should sum up the main points of your argument and leave the reader with a clear understanding of your position. A good conclusion will also restate your thesis in different words than how it was stated in your introduction.

120 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Students stuck on a topic for their essay can use any of these 120 literary analysis essay topics to get inspired.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Symbolism

  • How does the author use symbols to represent ideas in the text?
  • What is the significance of the book’s title?
  • How do the book’s characters embody the themes of the text?
  • What objects or images appear throughout the book, and what do they symbolize?
  • How does the author use color to convey ideas in the text?
  • What is the significance of the book’s setting?
  • What does the narrator’s point of view reveal about the characters and events in the text?
  • How does the author use foreshadowing to build suspense in the story?
  • What motifs appear in the text, and what do they symbolize?
  • How does the author’s use of irony contribute to the text’s overall theme?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Theme

  • What is the book’s central theme? Why?
  • How does the author explore the book’s main theme?
  • What messages does the author convey about the book’s main theme?
  • How does the author develop the book’s secondary themes?
  • What messages does the author convey about the book’s secondary themes?
  • How does the author’s choice of words contribute to the development of the theme in the text?
  • What characters embody the book’s central themes, and how do they represent them?
  • How does the author’s use of figurative language contribute to developing a theme in the text?
  • What events in the book support the main theme, and how do they contribute to its development?
  • How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in the text?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Character

  • How do the book’s characters develop throughout the story?
  • How do the book’s characters contribute to the development of the plot?
  • How does the author use dialogue to reveal information about the book’s characters?
  • What physical traits do the book’s characters possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
  • What psychological traits do the book’s characters possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
  • How do the book’s characters interact with each other, and what does this reveal about them?
  • What motivates the book’s characters, and how does this contribute to the development of the plot?
  • How does the author’s use of point of view contribute to the development of the book’s characters?
  • What conflicts do the book’s characters face, and how do they resolve them?
  • How do the book’s characters change by the end of the story, and what does this reveal about them?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Plot

  • What is the book’s main plot?
  • How does the author develop the book’s main plot?
  • What messages does the author convey about the book’s main plot?
  • How does the author develop the book’s secondary plots?
  • What messages does the author convey about the book’s secondary plots?
  • How does the author’s choice of words contribute to the development of the book’s plot?
  • What events in the book support the main plot, and how do they contribute to its development?
  • How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the book’s plot?
  • How does the author’s use of figurative language contribute to the development of the book’s plot?
  • What characters embody the book’s main plot, and how do they represent it?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Setting

  • How would a different setting affect the book’s plot?
  • How does the book’s setting contribute to the development of its characters?
  • What messages does the author convey about the book’s setting?
  • How does the author use the book’s setting to develop the book’s mood?
  • How do events in the book make the setting more or less real?
  • How does the author’s use of description contribute to the development of the book’s setting?
  • What physical traits does the book’s setting possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
  • What psychological traits does the book’s setting possess, and how do they contribute to the story?
  • How does the author use the book’s setting to develop the book’s theme?
  • What symbols are present in the book’s setting, and what do they represent?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About American Classic Literature

  • Compare and contrast the American Dream as it is portrayed in The Great Gatsby and Death of a Salesman.
  • How does F. Scott Fitzgerald’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in The Great Gatsby?
  • What similarities and differences exist between the characters in The Catcher in the Rye and To Kill a Mockingbird?
  • In what ways does Harper Lee’s use of first-person point of view contribute to the development of Atticus Finch’s character?
  • How does J.D. Salinger’s use of figurative language contribute to the development of Holden Caulfield’s character?
  • What messages about society does Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman convey?
  • How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in All My Sons?
  • What messages about family does Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie convey?
  • What messages about love and relationships does Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf convey?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About British Literature

  • How does Shakespeare’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in Romeo and Juliet?
  • What messages about family does William Golding’s Lord of the Flies convey?
  • What messages about love and relationships does D.H. Lawrence’s Sons and Lovers convey?
  • How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in Women in Love?
  • What messages about society does George Orwell’s Animal Farm convey?

Literary Analysis Topics About Poetry

  • How does the author’s choice of words contribute to the development of the theme in a particular poem?
  • What messages about society does the poem convey?
  • How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in the poem?
  • What clues in the poem suggest the poet had a troubled life?
  • What physical traits does the poem’s speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the poem’s development?
  • What psychological traits does the poem’s speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the development of the poem?
  • How would a different choice of words contribute to the development of the poem’s theme?
  • What different images does the author use in the poem, and how do they contribute to its development?
  • Compare and contrast the author’s use of imagery in two different poems.
  • How does the author’s use of sound contribute to the development of the poem?

Literary Analysis Topics About Theater

  • Examine how the playwright’s use of stage directions contributes to character development in the play.
  • How does the playwright’s use of dialogue contribute to the development of the theme in the play?
  • What messages about love and relationships does the play convey?
  • How does the author’s use of symbolism contribute to the development of the theme in the play?
  • What messages about family does the playwright’s use of figurative language convey?
  • How does the author’s use of point of view contribute to the development of the play’s characters?
  • In what ways does the playwright’s use of setting contribute to the development of the play’s plot?
  • What messages about society does the play convey?
  • How would a change in the play’s setting contribute to its development?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About YA Novels

  • Explore the main differences between the book and its film adaptation.
  • What messages about love and relationships does the novel convey?
  • Examine the use of adolescent slang in the novel and its effects on the development of theme.
  • Argue for or against including a particular novel in high school curriculums.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Speeches

  • Compare and contrast Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech with Malcolm X’s “The Ballot or the Bullet
  • Explore the symbolism in Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address.”
  • Analyze the rhetoric in JFK’s “Moon Speech.”
  • What messages about society does Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I A Woman?” speech convey?
  • How does Frederick Douglass’s “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” speech contribute to his character development?
  • What physical traits does the speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the development of the speech?
  • What psychological traits does the speaker possess, and how do they contribute to the development of the speech?
  • How would a different choice of words contribute to the development of the speech’s theme?
  • What different images does the author use in the speech, and how do they contribute to its development?
  • Compare and contrast the author’s use of imagery in two different speeches.
  • Does the intensity of the rhetoric in the speech contribute to its effectiveness?
  • How does the author’s use of sound contribute to the development of the speech?

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Books Turned into Movies

  • Explore the themes of capitalism in Fight Club.
  • Discuss how The Catcher in the Rye is an autobiographical novel.
  • Analyze the character of Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye.
  • Compare and contrast the book and film versions of The Great Gatsby.
  • Examine the use of color in The Great Gatsby.
  • Explore the theme of betrayal in The Great Gatsby.
  • Analyze the character of Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby.
  • Compare and contrast the book and film versions of To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Examine the use of point of view in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Analyze the character of Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics About Non-Fiction Books

  • Compare and contrast two biographies of the same person.
  • Analyze a section of the US Constitution.
  • Compare and contrast two religious texts.
  • Analyze the historical effects of the writings of Niccolo Machiavelli.
  • Compare and contrast the ideas of Karl Marx and Adam Smith.
  • Analyze the thoughts of Rousseau on education.
  • Evaluate the methods used in a self-help book.
  • Review a political science text.
  • Compare and contrast the autobiographies of two different philosophers.
  • Compare and contrast the claims made in two history books.

With any of these 120 literary essay topics, you’ll be able to deep-dive into the world of literature and create an impressive essay on any text you’ve read.

Related Posts

  • 160 Process Analysis Essay Topics
  • 130 Problem Solution Essay Topics
  • 145 Classification Essay Topics
  • 50 Rogerian Essay Topics
  • 70 Casual Essay Topics

Categories:

  • Essay Samples
  • Essay Topics
  • Essay Writing Guides

Recent posts:

  • 170 Ethics Essay Topics
  • 160 Satire Essay Topics
  • 160 Rhetorical Essay Topics
  • 155 Criminal Justice Essay Topics
  • 150 Political Essay Topics
  • 140 Sociology Essay Topics
  • 140 Opinion Essay Topics
  • 140 Environmental Essay Topics
  • 135 Controversial Essay Topics
  • 125 Classification and Division Essay Topics
  • 100 Profile Essay Topics
  • 90 Heart of Darkness Essay Topics
  • 80 Holocaust Essay Topics

Testimonials

Group 6

435 Literary Analysis Essay Topics and Prompts [2024 Upd]

Literature courses are about two things: reading and writing about what you’ve read. For most students, it’s hard enough to understand great pieces of literature, never mind analyzing them. And with so many books and stories out there, choosing one to write about can be a chore.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

The picture says that literary analysis involves interpretation and evaluation.

But you’re in luck!

This article by our Custom Writing service experts presents a list of the most interesting and creative literary analysis topics. Additionally, you will find here:

  • helpful essay prompts;
  • a writing guide with simple tips;
  • a literary analysis example.

This comprehensive article can be helpful not only for university or college students but also to students of high and middle school.

  • 🔝 Top 10 Literature Topics for High School
  • 🔮 Top 10 Literary Topics for College
  • 📜 Topics from Different Eras
  • 🖋️ Poetry Analysis Topics
  • 🎭 Shakespeare Essay Topics
  • 📚 English Literature Topics: Different Authors
  • 💡 Non-Fiction Literature Topics
  • ⭐ Other Ideas
  • 🖊️ Literary Analysis Prompts
  • ✍️ Writing Guide
  • 📃 Essay Example

🔗 References

🔝 top 10 literature essay topics for high school.

  • The role of religion in King Lear  
  • Milk symbolism in Beloved  
  • Is there gender inequality in Iliad ? 
  • Social issues of The Little Match Girl  
  • Gender roles in The Great Gatsby  
  • Frankenstein : historical background 
  • How is loyalty presented in Beowulf ?
  • Flower symbolism in A Rose for Emily
  • Politics in Titus Andronicus  
  • The presentation of power in Ozymandias   

🔮 Top 10 Literary Analysis Essay Topics for College

  • Nature symbolism in Young Goodman Brown  
  • Childhood trauma in God Help the Child  
  • The consequences of Macbeth’s ambition 
  • The historical context of The Scarlet Letter  
  • Presentation of misery in The Chimney Sweeper
  • The supernatural in The Fall of the House of Usher  
  • What does Dorian Gray’s portrait represent? 
  • How is the true inner self discovered in Demian ? 
  • Natural beauty in I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud  
  • Endurance as a theme of The Old Man and the Sea  

📜 Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Different Eras

Topics in ancient greek & roman literature.

Works of literature from Ancient Greece have a timeless quality. This is why they are still taught in schools centuries later. After thousands of years, there is little that hasn’t already been written about these works. That’s why we’ve gathered the only most outstanding topics that you will definitely find interesting:

  • Justice in Plato’s The Republic . Plato is perhaps the most influential thinker in the Western World. Accordingly, writing about his powerful philosophical dialogs is a challenging task. Most teachers will assign only portions of The Republic . We suggest you write about the theme of justice, but you can choose to focus on any other aspect of the dialog.
  • Determination in Sophocles’ Antigone . Antigone is one of the masterworks of the Greek playwright Sophocles. In this tale of royal succession, key themes include civil disobedience, natural and human law, and faithfulness.
  • Odysseus as an atypical hero in The Odyssey . The Odyssey by Homer is considered one of the most important poems in Classic literature. Odysseus is a unique epic hero facing an unusual challenge: his goal is not to win battles but to reconnect with his family. He has to rely on his wit rather than sheer power to achieve it. In your essay, explain how Odysseus differs from other heroes in Greek mythology .
  • Ethical principles in Aesop’s Fables . Aesop’s Fables represent a unique example of Ancient Greek literature. The stories written by a slave have become a cultural phenomenon centuries later. Even today, the morals of his works stay relevant.
  • The influence of Greek tragedy on modern theater. Sophocles’ and Aeschylus ‘ plays can still be found in the repertoire of many theaters. Moreover, their works often serve as inspiration for contemporary playwrights.
  • The tragedy of Oedipus in Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex . Oedipus is one of the best-known classic tragic heroes. In killing his father and marrying his mother, he fulfilled the prophecy of the Oracle. Through this play, Sophocles explores the themes of destiny and human flaws.
  • The variety of genres in the Metamorphoses. Millennia after Ovid’s Metamorphoses were written, scholars still argue about the genre of this work. Ovid blended historical events with fiction and experimented with the tone and themes of the poem.
  • The role of gods in Homer’s epic poems. In Homer’s Iliad and The Odyssey , gods often determine the outcomes of major events and change heroes’ destinies. They can become powerful allies or dangerous enemies of humans. Explore how divine interventions change the course of the story in both poems. Focus on Athene, Apollo, Aphrodite, Hera, and Poseidon.
  • Cicero’s legacy in Western politics and philosophy. Cicero’s letters are widely recognized as some of the most influential works of Latin literature. John Locke , Voltaire, and Martin Luther are among the figures inspired by him. Cicero’s philosophy teaching also influenced revolutionary movements in France and America in the 17 th century.

Literary Essay Topics: 19th and 20th Century

Many great literary works in the English language were written in the golden era of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. These works, ranging from epic novels to short poems, provide insight into the themes that define the Anglophone world’s spirit.

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

  • The conflict between good and evil in The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes . Sherlock Holmes—a character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle—is considered the most famous fictional detective of all time. The Adventure of the Speckled Band is the favorite Holmes story of both the author and readers. Accordingly, many students choose to analyze this short story, which explores the themes of chaos.
  • Lord of the Flies as an allegory of modern society. Students of all ages have read Lord of the Flies , the classic novella by William Golding that explores the dangers of groupthink, the conflicts between rationality and irrationality, and morality and immorality., the classic novella by William Golding that explores the dangers of groupthink, the conflicts between rationality and irrationality, and morality and immorality.
  • The arbitrary nature of time and history in The Princess Bride . William Goldman’s The Princess Bride is such an entertaining story that it was adapted into an even more popular film. The key theme explored in this book is the power of love to conquer all.
  • The theme of money and greed in The Rocking Horse Winner . D. H. Lawrence is one of the masters of 20 th -century English literature, and his short story The Rocking Horse Winner clearly demonstrates his skill. In this tale of a struggling family, the themes of money and greed are thoroughly explored as a young boy uses clairvoyance gained on a rocking horse to predict race outcomes.
  • Is Of Mice and Men a classic tale of struggle? The American writer John Steinbeck captured the hardships faced by ordinary people during the Great Depression . The main recurring theme among Of Mice and Men characters is striving after dreams, often futilely, as demonstrated by them all: from George and Lennie to Candy and Curley’s wife.
  • The themes of reality and fantasy in A Streetcar Named Desire . Tennessee Williams’s masterpiece A Streetcar Named Desire is perhaps the most famous American dramatic play of all time. The central theme explored in this provocative play is the contemporary dependence of women on men.
  • Comparison of Ivan and Alexei in The Brothers Karamazov. The conflict between faith and doubt is arguably the central topic of Dostoevsky’s work, and The Brothers Karamazov is a perfect example of it. Alexei is a devout Orthodox Christian who believes in miracles. His brother, Ivan, rejects the concept of divine transcendence and embraces atheism.
  • Charles Dickens’ ambivalent attitude towards the poor. Dickens is widely considered an advocate of the poor’s rights and social change. Indeed, many of his impoverished characters are likable. However, Dickens also believes that the poor can be dangerous to society. Some of the works you can discuss are Oliver Twist, A Tale of Two Cities , and Barnaby Rudge .
  • Magic realism in One Hundred Years of Solitude . Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s masterpiece, One Hundred Years of Solitude, is written in the genre of magical realism. Marquez tells a fictional story of the Buendia family, blending daily routine with extraordinary events, effectively blurring the line between reality and fiction.
  • The differences between dystopian worlds in 1984 and A Brave New World . George Orwell and Aldous Huxley wrote the two most famous dystopian novels of the 20 th century. In both of them, the government has complete control over society, which is obtained through different strategies. In your essay, you may compare the policies in 1984 and A Brave New World .
  • On the Road as the landmark novel of the Beat Generation. Jack Kerouac and other members of the Beat movement challenged the typical American middle-class lifestyle in their works. On the Road embodies the main principles of their philosophy. Some of the topics to explore are freedom, spontaneity, and nonconformity.
  • The role of the changing narrative in Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury . The Sound and the Fury is often praised for its experimental form. Four narrators tell the story from different perspectives and in contrasting tones. Explore how the changing narrative affects the overall perception of the novel.
  • Folklore, religion, and myth in Toni Morrison’s works. Toni Morrison is widely recognized as one of the most influential contemporary Black American writers. Her works are inspired mainly by her African heritage and Western mythology. Some of the novels to explore are Beloved and Song of Solo mon .
  • Expression of war experiences in American fiction. Wars in the 20 th century had a significant impact on American literature. Many writers participated in armed conflicts. Hemingway, Vonnegut, Salinger, and O’Brien are some of the authors who reflect on their war experiences in semi-autobiographic novels and short stories.

“My mother is a fish” quote.

Contemporary Literature Essay Topics

Excellent books are still being written! Once in a while, your instructor may ask you to analyze a more recent work. Here are a few great books to consider for your next essay.

  • The theme of overcoming obstacles and poverty in Reservation Blues . Sherman Alexie’s novel Reservation Blues tells the story of a group of young men from the Spokane Indian reservation. They obtain the enchanted guitar of a legendary bluesman. Aside from overcoming obstacles, this book explores many other themes of Native American life.
  • Family obligations in Montana 1948 by Larry Watson . This novella is set in the Western American state of Montana, where a young man’s family struggles to survive. You may explore the theme of family obligations in conjunction with loyalty and justice.
  • The presentation of grief in The Lovely Bones . In Alice Sebold’s The Lovely Bones , the protagonist Susie dies violently. And then, her spirit proceeds to watch over the investigation of her disappearance and her family members’ lives.
  • Self-sacrifice as one of the central themes of Harry Potter . You may also want to write about any other theme of the Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling. But remember: when you write about a book that was turned into a movie, make sure to actually read the book!
  • Cultural and religious references in Saunders’ Lincoln in the Bardo. One of the most acclaimed novels in recent years, Lincoln in the Bardo deals with the themes of death and the afterlife. A Tibetan concept of bardo inspires Saunders’ work, but the author also borrows ideas from other cultures and religions.
  • The theme of cultural assimilation in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Americanah. In her third novel, Adichie draws upon her personal experiences to tackle the issues African immigrants face when they move to the US. Explore the effects of immigration on the protagonist’s personality, views, and behavior.
  • Hypocrisy as the central theme of Ian McEwan’s Amsterdam. In Amsterdam , McEwan explores the contrast between public figures’ statements and their personal lives. None of the major characters in the novel act in accordance with their ethical standards. We suggest you focus on the figures of Clive, Vernon, and Julian.
  • Paul Beatty’s The Sellout : Satire on racial stereotypes. Beatty employs satire and irony to tackle some of the most pressing current issues in American society. The Sellout can be used as an encyclopedia of stereotypes associated with African Americans. Explore how the author uses literary devices to highlight their absurdity.
  • Cloning ethics in Kazuo Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go . In the dystopian world of Never Let Me Go , cloning is a common practice. However, clones are used only as organ donors; they are not perceived as human beings. Explain how Ishiguro uses the narrative to challenge this social norm. For example, his characters can make art and fall in love.
  • Comparison of the New and Old Gods in Neil Gaiman’s American Gods. In American Gods , the narrative is based on the idea that humans created deities. The Old Gods in mythology represent the forces of nature, and The New Gods represent technologies that shape modern society. Discuss the similarities and differences between these two groups.

🖋️ Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Poetry

Many of the great works of literature are poems. Writing about them requires a special approach. Here’s a tip: don’t be afraid to quote the poem heavily and give several alternative interpretations. But first, check out this list of excellent topics:

  • A real-life war experience in Crane’s War is Kind . An American poet and writer Stephen Crane wrote the acclaimed American Civil War novel The Red Badge of Courage . But not everyone knows that he also wrote a collection of poems entitled War is Kind . Through these poems, he delved deep into the themes of war and violence based on his experience in the Spanish–American and Greco–Turkish Wars.
  • The theme of religion in John Donne’s sonnets. At the opposite end of the poetry spectrum, you can find the Elizabethan-era Englishman, John Donne . His works were written mainly in the form of sonnets focused on the themes of love, social criticism, death, and religion.
  • Mysticism in William Butler Yeats’s poetry . The occult, spiritualism, and Irish mythology profoundly influenced Yeats’ work. Many of his poems are preoccupied with the Apocalypse, immortality of the human soul, and the spirit world. Start your research with The Second Coming and Sailing to Byzantium.
  • Allusions in Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven . The Raven is widely recognized as one of the most famous poems of all time. It contains numerous references and allusions to the Bible, folklore, and other literary works. Examine and quote Poe’s sources of inspiration.
  • The meaning of The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost . Robert Frost’s poetry is often praised for his rich metaphorical language. The Road Not Taken is a quintessential piece that’s often misunderstood. In your essay, you may explore its alternative interpretations.
  • The evolution of blank verse in English poetry. Blank verse emerged in English poetry in the 16 th century and has been used by some of the most influential poets since then. While its main features have remained largely unchanged, many prominent authors experimented with its form. For example, you can analyze the use of blank verse in the poetry of Shakespeare , Milton, and Wordsworth.
  • Main themes and features of Beat poetry. The Beat movement played a pivotal role in the cultural processes in the post-war US. Beat poetry is characterized by rebellion, transgression, and experiments with form. Some of the authors to check out are Allen Ginsberg , Gregory Corso, Lawrence Ferlinghetti , and Gary Snyder.
  • The narrator in Walt Whitman’s Song of Myself . Unlike many poets of his time, Whitman rejected the dichotomy of body and soul. In Song of Myself , the narrator represents the union of the “temporary” human body with the immortal soul. Consider exploring Whitman’s philosophy behind the notion of “self” in the poem.
  • William Blake’s influence on British and American poetry and culture. Blake’s contemporaries largely disregarded his poetry. However, his influence on the later generations is hard to overestimate. His values and ideas inspired the Pre-Raphaelites, the Beat Generation, and some of the prominent figures of the American music scene, including Bob Dylan and Jim Morrison. and Jim Morrison.

🎭 Literary Analysis: Shakespeare Essay Topics

Romeo and juliet essay topics.

How many Romeo and Juliet personal responses and analysis essays have already been written? There are too many of them to count, but there’s still room for more. Romeo and Juliet essay examples can help you find a unique topic for an essay about the play. Another option is to check out top Romeo and Juliet themes below:

  • How does fate affect the love plot in Romeo and Juliet ?
  • Concept of contrasts in the language of the play.
  • The significance of time in Romeo and Juliet
  • The tragic love theme of Romeo and Juliet as a cliché for romantic fatalism
  • Mercutio as a representation of loyalty
  • Montagues and Capulets: the conflict between generations
  • How is irony used in the play?
  • The role of the family in Romeo and Juliet
  • The social and historical context of the play
  • Nurse’s role in the death of Romeo and Juliet

Hamlet Essay Topics

Shakespeare’s Hamlet may be the most widely assigned play in the English courses. Here are the top Hamlet essay topics worth exploring.

  • The theme of disillusionment in Hamlet
  • Mistreatment of women in Hamlet as a representation of misogyny in Shakespeare’s times
  • How has the tragedy’s theme of madness affected modern literature?
  • What role does melancholy play in Hamlet ?
  • The connection between friendship and betrayal in the character of Laertes
  • Comedic elements in Hamlet
  • The impact of Gertrude and Claudius’ marriage on Hamlet’s revenge
  • What is the symbolism of The Mousetrap play?
  • The impact of introspection on Hamlet’s revenge
  • Analysis of the Denmark setting in Hamlet

Macbeth Essay Topics

Shakespeare’s Macbeth is the last (and shortest) of the three big Shakespearean plays every high school student reads before graduation. Like the rest of William Shakespeare’s tragedies, it is full of meaningful themes that can serve as topics for literary analysis essays.

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions. Cut 15% off your first order!

  • The corrupting influence of ambition in Macbeth
  • Supernatural elements in Macbeth
  • The impact of loyalty and betrayal on the plot
  • What does sleep symbolize in the play?
  • Why is Macbeth a victim of fate?
  • The role of darkness as a setting in Macbeth
  • Is blood a symbol of guilt in Macbeth ?
  • The causes of Macbeth’s mental deterioration
  • The impact of Macbeth’s hallucinations on his character development
  • Minor characters’ contributions to the play’s action

Lady Macbeths real name was Gruoch and Macbeth’s real name was Mac Bethad Mac Findlaich.

Shakespeare wrote many more plays beyond the big three listed above. Here are a few more topics and works that show the range of the Bard.

  • The theme of madness in King Lear . Shakespeare’s King Lear is one of the longest works by the Bard. Many actors feel that the title role is one of the most challenging available for an actor because of the character’s gradual descent into madness. Accordingly, “madness” is perhaps the best topic related to this play.
  • The presentation of love and adoration in Sonnet 18 . Shakespeare’s sonnets make excellent essay topics because they are so concise but rich in meaning. Love and devotion, which are expressed in Sonnet 18 and throughout his other sonnets, serve as great critical analysis essay topics.
  • The theme of the crown in Shakespeare’s Henry IV
  • Sexuality, sensuality, and spirituality in William Shakespeare’s sonnets
  • Ambition in Hamlet and Macbeth : choices of men and women characters
  • The use of disguise in The Twelfth Night
  • Different faces of love in Shakespeare’s sonnets and plays
  • Appearance as the most potent disguise in Shakespeare’s plays
  • The use of satire in William Shakespeare’s comedies and tragedies
  • The line between acting and real life in Hamlet
  • Parallels between Shakespeare’s King Lear and Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex
  • The use of allusion in The Tempest
  • The complexity of the female character in Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra
  • Archetypal female characters in Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets
  • William Shakespeare’s authorship: style, vocabulary, themes, and dates
  • The role of Shakespeare in the world of literature
  • How does William Shakespeare use the meter in his plays?
  • The depiction of the supernatural in Macbeth , The Tempest , and A Midsummer Night’s Dream
  • The theme of race and ethnicity in Othello
  • Personal identity in Hamlet and Henry IV

By the way, you can find all of Shakespeare’s works on our website for free.

📚 English Literature Essay Topics: Different Authors

Some can find it easier to focus on particular authors and their works. Are you one of them? Here are possible topics for those who like traditional approaches.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Geoffrey Chaucer

  • Chaucer’s works of the French and Italian periods
  • Primary themes and motifs in Troilus and Criseyde
  • Women’s virtues, as seen by Chaucer and his contemporaries
  • Gender: conventions and innovations in Geoffrey Chaucer’s works
  • Chaucer’s role in the development of a heroic couplet
  • Chaucer’s use of the vernacular language: nobility and nation
  • Religious morals in The Canterbury Tales
  • The roots of class conflict in The Canterbury Tales
  • Chaucer’s influence on modern English dialects
  • The critique of clergy in The Canterbury Tales
  • The influence of medieval Italian poetry on Chaucer’s work
  • Central themes in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Book of the Duchess
  • The comparison of Chaucer’s Troilus and Criseyde and Shakespeare’s Troilus and Cressida
  • Elements of comedy in The Canterbury Tales
  • Chaucer as a pioneer of rhyme royal in English poetry
  • Chaucer’s primary sources of inspiration in Roman poetry: Ovid and Virgil
  • The depiction of the middle class in The Canterbury Tales

Literary Essay Topics on John Keats

  • Different shapes of death in John Keats’s works
  • What was wrong with Keats’s Otho the Great ?
  • Byron’s influence on Keats’s style and themes
  • The uniqueness of John Keats’ imagery
  • Keats’s letters and their influence on the English literature
  • Greek classics as a source of inspiration for Keats
  • Keats’ stance on social and political issues of his time
  • The importance of nature in Keats’ odes
  • The themes of melancholy and isolation in Keats’ poetry
  • Keats’ perception of art and its role in Ode on a Grecian Urn
  • The polemics on Keats’ statement “Beauty is truth”
  • The values of Romanticism in Keats’ poetry
  • Keats’ concept of negative capability and its examples in his poetry
  • The differences between the Romantic poetry of Keats and Coleridge
  • Keats’ attitude towards Christianity and pagan mythology

Literature Essay Topics on Oscar Wilde

  • A perfect wife as depicted in An Ideal Husband
  • The Picture of Dorian Gray as the aesthete’s manifesto
  • Wilde’s essential inspirations and the development of his views
  • The Picture of Dorian Gray : will beauty save the world?
  • Oscar Wilde’s personal traits in his characters
  • The Picture of Dorian Gray : Lord Henry’s morality or immorality
  • Irony, sarcasm, and satire in Oscar Wilde’s works
  • The use of metaphors in The Ballad of Reading Gaol
  • The Picture of Dorian Gray : was the young man innocent?
  • Conventions and innovations in Oscar Wilde’s fairy stories
  • Oscar Wilde as the most celebrated master of paradox
  • Play on words in Oscar Wilde’s major works
  • Christian theme in De Profundis
  • The Importance of Being Earnest as the critique of Victorian society
  • The role of the Dance of the Seven Veils in Wilde’s Salome
  • Wilde’s aesthetic philosophy in his essay The Critic as Artist
  • The Soul of Man under Socialism : an expression of Wilde’s political views
  • Wilde as one of the key figures of the Decadent movement
  • Women characters in Oscar Wilde’s comedies
  • The theme of sacrifice in Wilde’s short stories
  • The dichotomy of body and soul in The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Fisherman and His Soul
  • The recurring motifs in Oscar Wilde’s comedies

George Orwell Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Orwell’s imagery in the depiction of totalitarian regimes
  • George Orwell’s background: inspirations for themes and symbols
  • Orwell’s views on the English language and literature
  • The historical context of 1984 and Animal Farm
  • The role of the media in Orwell’s characters’ lives
  • The character of the Big Brother in 1984
  • Naturalism and imagery in The Road to Wigan Pier
  • Why was Animal Farm regarded as controversial in the 1950s?
  • Orwell’s religious views in Lear, Tolstoy, and the Fool
  • Winston Smith’s journey to freedom in 1984

💡 Literary Analysis Topics in Non-Fiction

The world of literature goes far beyond William Shakespeare and fiction in general. Here is a bunch of more literary analysis paper topics for other great works of literature that deal with real-life events.

  • Religious faith and dehumanization in Night . Elie Wiesel’s classic memoir of the Holocaust is a difficult book for many students to read. And yet, you may need to write a Night by Elie Wiesel essay at some point. Religion and dehumanization are prominent themes that can serve as great topics.
  • The power of nature in Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild . The story chronicles the journey of 22-year-old Christopher McCandless from modern society into a 2-year trip in the wilderness of the western United States. This work of non-fiction explores the themes of escape, community, and the power of nature. (Warning: things do not end well for McCandless along the Stampede Trail of Alaska.)
  • Why We Can’t Wait by Martin Luther King as a source of inspiration for modern politicians and activists. Based on his Letter from Birmingham Jail , MLK’s Why We Can’t Wait is a study of the origins of the civil rights movement in the US. Analyze how activists and politicians can use ideas from this book in the 21 st century.
  • The themes of religion and technological progress in The Education of Henry Adams. In his autobiography, Henry Adams explores the influence of religion and technological progress on society. In the industrial world, technology has become a new religion. You may contrast and compare technological and religious societies in Adams’ work.
  • The banality of evil in Hannah Arendt’s Eichmann in Jerusalem. Hannah Arendt offers an original perspective on the nature of war crimes. According to her, ordinary people are capable of the most terrible deeds under specific circumstances. In your essay, explore Arendt’s concept of “the banality of evil.”
  • The role of photography in modern society, according to Susan Sontag. In her book On Photography , Susan Sontag explores how the role of this medium has been changing throughout the 20 th century. Analyze her arguments to establish the relationship between photography and political and social processes.
  • A Room of One’s Own as a manifesto of women’s literature. A Room of One’s Own reflects the women’s position in the literary scene. Woolf concludes that women’s writing capabilities match those of men. However, they often fail to reach their full potential because of the flawed structure of a male-dominated society.
  • Haruki Murakami’s Underground: a study of Japanese society. For Underground , Murakami conducted a series of interviews after the terrorist attack on the Tokyo subway. Rather than focusing on the act itself, the author uses this opportunity to explore the social issues that plague Japanese society.
  • T. S. Eliot’s literary criticism and views on poetry. T. S. Eliot is one of the most important literary critics and theorists of the early 20 th century. His theories and arguments have largely shaped the New Criticism movement in literature. Analyze the ideas expressed in Tradition and the Individual Talent and Hamlet and His Problems .

⭐ Literary Analysis Topics: Other Ideas

Literary essays don’t have to be devoted to analyzing a particular work. They may also include textual analysis essays, literary interpretations, critical response essays, and topic analyses. Here are some excellent options for you to consider:

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

  • Character development of various protagonists. You may write an analytical essay describing and interpreting changes in the central characters of different novels. Try to be precise, provide examples, and prove the significance of these changes. You can consider the development of Soames in The Forsyte Saga or the title character in David Copperfield .
  • Context analysis of a historical period. Your analysis paper can be devoted to the settings of the short story, play, poem, or novel. Make emphasis on the role of the context in explaining the characters and the key ideas. For example, you can explore the wartime setting in Gone with the Wind .
  • Analysis of genre conventions. Another good choice is to dwell upon the practices used by various authors belonging to the same literary genre. You can write a critical essay about a realistic, romantic, gothic , or any other kind of novel and the author’s ability to meet or challenge genre expectations.
  • The impact of an author’s life on their legacy. The background of a novelist, short-story writer, poet, or playwright may also be of great interest to the reader. However, it is not enough to narrate the author’s life: you must be able to connect it with their style and themes. The most demonstrative analysis examples may include Henry Miller, Ernest Hemingway , and Lord Byron.
  • Comparative analysis of two authors . It is also a good idea to compare several authors. A critical evaluation essay may estimate their impact on the development of their genre. If these authors come from different backgrounds, it is also possible to evaluate how the culture they belonged to made a difference. For example, write about Dickens vs. Thackeray or Joyce vs. Woolf.
  • Comparative analysis of two texts . If you don’t want to compare authors, you may try comparing two literary works on the same topic or belonging to the same epoch or genre. For example, try analyzing the similarities and differences between Canterbury Tales and Decameron .
  • Analysis of a literary work’s structure. Analysis topics may include the stream-of-consciousness technique, theater of the absurd, etc. The idea is to show how new expressive means transformed the traditional approach to plot building and character development.
  • The role of irony in short stories. If you are to analyze a short story, you may describe how the author uses irony to communicate their message. Show how it creates meaning and what underlies it. Numerous authors employ irony as the major tool in their short stories, including Jerome K. Jerome and Salinger.
  • Analyzing the climax in a novel. Describing how the author builds the plot to reach the culmination is a good option for a novel critical analysis essay. Track how the tension is created and how it is released when the climax is reached. For example, you can try analyzing the climax in To Kill a Mockingbird .
  • Mood expression in a novel of your choice. Your essay may investigate how the vocabulary and grammar chosen by an author contribute to the text’s atmosphere. You can consider analyzing Lolita or Sons and Lovers .
  • The role of dialogue in plays. Your critical paper may highlight what means the playwright uses to make the characters’ speech expressive. For example, examine Oscar Wilde’s plays or Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot .
  • Stage directions in plays. You may also want to pay attention to the importance of the author’s notes and scene directions in a play. They are particularly crucial in modern drama. Consider analyzing Beckett’s Waiting for Godot or Shaw’s Heartbreak House.
  • The use of allegory in poems. It’s an excellent topic for poem analysis. You can suggest your own literary interpretation of an allegory or consider why the author opted for this device. For example, consider analyzing the allegories in Vision of Judgement .
  • An open ending in a novel. Suppose the work under analysis doesn’t have a conflict resolution. In that case, your critical evaluation essay can give arguments for the author’s choice and interpret its meaning and possible continuation scenarios. For example, you may analyze an open ending in Joyce’s Finnegans Wake.
  • Comparison of critical opinions on a novel. If the piece you have read ranks among the best-known works in the world, it would be a good idea to compare literary criticism examples related to this work. You may select two different critics and juxtapose their views. For example, try comparing critical opinions on Mrs. Dalloway .
  • Analyzing side characters in literary works. If your task is to analyze a character, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should write about a protagonist. A more creative approach would be to pick a static character that doesn’t go through any transformations throughout the book and suggest why the author made them this way. One option is to write about side characters in Vanity Fair .
  • The narrative voice in novels. It can be challenging yet enjoyable to describe the narrative voice and focalization techniques that help the reader see the events in a certain way. It is especially complicated when a text has several points of view. For example, you may choose to analyze the narrative voice in Faulkner’s Absalom! Absalom! or As I Lay Dying .
  • The narrators in literature. The previous topic can be narrowed: you can take a work written from a first-person point of view and draw parallels between the author and the main character. For example, you can consider writing about the narrator in Moby Dick .
  • The cultural background of Dumas’ novels. In the case of historical novels, an analytical paragraph may be devoted to the historical and cultural background. Any of Alexandre Dumas’ novels, such as The Three Musketeers , may serve as perfect literature examples to write about.
  • Imagery used by various poets. You can analyze specific images that poets use in their works. For example, try analyzing how Walt Whitman uses industrial imagery in his works.

Alice Walker won Pulitzer prize.

Profound Literary Analysis Topics in Women’s Literature

Literary analysis on the topics of gender and women in society is critical to understanding the modern world. Here are a few powerful essay topics in this area.

  • The disruption of traditional gender roles in The Color Purple . According to New Republic, this National Book Award-winning work is considered a cultural touchstone for African American women . It features many heavy themes, such as sexism and racism. Keep in mind that this book is not for the faint of heart.
  • The themes of family and generational differences in Alice Walker’s short story Everyday Use . The short story is about heirloom possessions passed down from one generation of women to another.
  • Social standing and wealth as the two key themes in Pride and Prejudice . The protagonist of this book, Elizabeth Bennet, must choose between two suitors. One is an amiable man. The other is better established in society but has a colder personality.
  • Marriage and social status in Emma . Emma is the tale of a young woman less interested in securing her own marriage than her sisters. You can analyze the constraints placed upon women in 17 th -century society as reflected in this book.
  • Women’s role in society and gender roles according to The Great Lawsuit . The Great Lawsuit is often considered one of the most important early feminist works. The author, Margaret Fuller, argues that gender equality is a crucial aspect of a progressive society. She describes an ideal relationship between a man and a woman as an intellectual companionship.
  • Dystopia and feminism in A Handmaid’s Tale . In A Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood describes a world where women’s societal role is reduced to producing children. This work largely follows the traditions of classic dystopian novels written by Orwell and Huxley. Explore how the presence of the feminist discourse makes Atwood’s work stand out.
  • Gertrude Stein’s experiments with form and style. Gertrude Stein’s work is notable for her distinctive avant-garde style. Stein was an avid art collector, and trends in visual arts influenced her writings. Her narratives are characterized by the original use of tenses, repetitions, and archaisms.
  • The stream of consciousness in Virginia Woolf’s work . Virginia Woolf was one of the first writers to systematically use the stream of consciousness in her works. The narratives of her novels, such as Mrs. Dalloway and To the Lighthouse, are rooted in the descriptions of characters’ emotions and thoughts.
  • Political writings of Mercy Otis Warren. Mercy Otis Warren is famous for her political poems and plays written during the American Revolution. Explain how she used political satire to criticize the British rule. Start your research with the plays The Adulateur, The Defeat, and The Group .
  • Gender inequality in Jane Eyre . Widely recognized as one of the most successful works of women’s literature, Jane Eyre was a revolutionary novel for its time. It depicts the struggles of women in their fight for independence and equality in patriarchal Victorian society .
  • The blend of fiction and reality in The Yellow Wallpaper. Charlotte Perkins Gilman wrote The Yellow Wallpaper to document the trauma and stress she had experienced due to “rest therapy” prescribed to her by a psychiatrist. Back then, women suffering from depression were discouraged from any intellectual activity, as it was thought that “domestic life” would benefit them. In Gilman’s story, this treatment ultimately drives the protagonist to insanity.
  • Cleopatra in literature: from Geoffrey Chaucer to Margaret George
  • The depiction of Eve in Milton’s Paradise Lost
  • Archetypical female and male characters in Beowulf
  • Emmy’s submissiveness and Rebecca’s quick-wittedness in Vanity Fair
  • William Makepeace Thackeray’s Becky Sharp as an antihero
  • Becky Sharp as seen by Thackeray’s contemporaries and modern readers
  • Women empowerment and independence in Jane Austen’s novels
  • Women’s love and death: Shakespeare’s Ophelia and Wilde’s Sibyl
  • A Room of One’s Own : a woman’s manifesto still relevant now
  • First female voices in the Middle Ages: Aelia Eudocia Augusta
  • The Brontë sisters: Lady writers who broke the rules
  • Gender roles as depicted by Maugham in Theatre
  • This is the woman’s world: feminist utopias and dystopias
  • Female writers: themes explored in the 1910s vs. 2010s
  • Women characters’ virtues and vices in the 19th century
  • Women of color: themes of violence, discrimination, and empowerment
  • A Doll’s House as seen by Ibsen’s contemporaries
  • Is Ibsen’s A Doll’s House still relevant today?
  • Beauty standards as women’s oppression in The Bluest Eye
  • The complexity of the mother-daughter relationship in Tony Morrison’s Beloved
  • The evolvement of masculinity from medieval to postmodern literature
  • Masculinity in The Garden of Eden by Ernest Hemingway
  • Masculinity, identity, and queerness in Tennessee Williams’s works
  • Gender roles in utopias and dystopias: More and Huxley
  • Sexuality and gender stereotypes in Williams’s A Streetcar Named Desire
  • Charles Dickens’s depiction of aging men and women
  • Fairy tales as sources of gender stereotypes

Powerful Literary Analysis Topics within the Subject of Race

  • Colonialism in J. M. Coetzee’s Waiting for the Barbarians . A short Waiting for the Barbarians summary should capture the narrative of the escalation of tensions between a fictional colonial town and its surrounding indigenous population. When the protagonist helps a native woman, he begins to doubt the humanity of colonialism.
  • The portrayal of racism in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness . Heart of Darkness is the chilling tale of young Marlow’s voyage up the Congo River. There he meets the wicked ivory trader Kurtz. The book explores the themes of imperialism and racism. It also questions the civility of Western society over supposedly “savage” indigenous people.
  • The conflict between man and nature in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn . Mark Twain is one of the greatest American writers and satirists. But his masterpiece The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn delved into themes that would make some of the most serious literary analysis essay topics, such as the theme of freedom vs. slavery.
  • The theme of prejudice in To Kill a Mockingbird . Harper Lee’s novel was an instant classic upon release. To Kill a Mockingbird is set in the American South, and, like many books by Southern authors, it explores the themes of race and justice.
  • Anti-slavery narrative and racist stereotypes in Uncle Tom’s Cabin . Uncle Tom’s Cabin was one of the first universally acclaimed novels to tackle slavery. However, it is often criticized for its stereotypical portrayal of Black characters. Hence, it remains one of the most controversial pieces of American literature.
  • De Bois’ The Souls of Black Folk as the precursor of the Civil Rights movement. De Bois’ essays have largely laid the groundwork for the campaigns for racial equality in the 20 th century. He argued that African Americans deserved fundamental rights the White population had: voting, getting a higher education, and being treated fairly according to the law.
  • The notion of Black pride in A Raisin in the Sun . Lorraine Hansberry’s famous play touches upon topics of racial identity and pride inspired by real events. A Black family wants to purchase a house in a White neighborhood, but they are dissuaded from buying it. Eventually, they refuse to accept the buyout offer and move to their new place as planned.
  • Jefferson as a folk hero in A Lesson Before Dying . In A Lesson Before Dying , Ernest J. Gaines tells a story of a young Black man wrongfully accused of murder. Treated by White people as a sub-human, Jefferson completely loses his self-esteem at some point. However, with the help of a local Black teacher, he regains his pride and meets death with dignity. Explain how Jefferson’s transformation makes him a folk hero.
  • The impact of discriminatory laws on the life of African Americans in Fences. August Wilson’s Fences explores how discriminatory laws and attitudes defined the life of African Americans before the Civil Rights Movement. The protagonist, Troy Maxson, is a talented baseball player whose life is ruined because he didn’t get a chance to play in the professional league due to racial restrictions.
  • Internalized racism in Morrison’s Song of Solomon . In her book Song of Solomon , Toni Morrison explores the issue of internalized racism. Hagar and Macon Dead are the characters to study. Macon Dead, a Black entrepreneur, hates people of color and wants to leave his community. Hagar envies women with a lighter skin tone, as she sees them as superior to her.
  • I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings : A story of hatred and trauma. Maya Angelou is renowned for her autobiographical novels dealing with challenging topics like racism, trauma, and violence. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings addresses the issues she faced growing up as a Black child in a White neighborhood.

Death-Related Literature Essay Topics

  • Death in works of dying writers: Keats and Blake
  • Death in Milton’s poetry: imagery and symbols
  • Emily Dickinson’s fascination with decay, degradation, and death
  • John Keats’s and William Shakespeare’s depictions of death
  • Views on death in the Renaissance literature
  • Murder and suicide in Shakespeare’s tragedies Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet
  • Depictions of death in Postmodernist literature
  • Aging as seen in medieval , Renaissance, and Postmodernist literature
  • Death and decay in Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray
  • Love, life, and death in Huxley’s dystopian society
  • Murder in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men
  • Herman Melville’s Moby Dick : The concepts of life and death
  • Simon’s death in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
  • Kate Chopin’s ironic take on death in The Story of an Hour
  • Seneca’s life and philosophy: Death as liberation
  • The role of death in existentialism
  • The theme of death in Ernest Hemingway’s works
  • The depiction of heaven and hell in Richard Matheson’s What Dreams May Come
  • The concept of free death in Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy
  • Gothic writers’ fascination with death
  • Hades : The realm of the dead in Greek mythology

Literary Analysis Essay Topics: Man and Nature

  • Dehumanizing nature: Robinson Crusoe and Lord of the Flies
  • Struggles with nature: Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe and Paulsen’s Hatchet
  • Nature’s wonders and dangers in Emily Dickenson’s works
  • Natural forces: from Homer to H. G. Wells
  • Power of natural forces in William Shakespeare’s The Tempest
  • The depiction of nature in Fears in Solitude by Coleridge
  • William Wordsworth’s poetic language and symbols used to describe nature
  • Nature in Brave New World : urban and rural settings
  • Nature in post-apocalyptic novels: decay and revival
  • The role of nature in Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings
  • The conflict between man and nature in Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea
  • Post-apocalyptic fiction as the critique of industrial society
  • Environmentalism in Ursula Le Guin’s works
  • Personal life and climate change in Barbara Kingsolver’s Flight Behavior
  • The role of nature in John Steinbeck’s East of Eden
  • The emergence of eco-fiction—a new genre in world literature
  • Nature in Romanticism: Comparison of Shelley’s, Wordsworth’s, and Keats’ poetry
  • Natty Bumppo’s and Judge Temple’s conflicting views on nature in James Fenimore Cooper’s The Pioneers
  • The impact of country life on the character development in Cormac McCarthy’s All the Pretty Horses

Literary Essay Topics on Religion

  • Religious influences: biblical themes and allusions in Beowulf
  • Religion as another burden in The Bluest Eye
  • Views on religious conventions in Milton’s Paradise Lost
  • Jonathan Swift’s satirical view of religions in Gulliver’s Travels
  • The role of religion in Charles Dickens’s works
  • The evolvement of religious beliefs in John Dryden’s works
  • Religious controversies as depicted in John Milton’s Paradise Lost
  • A spiritual journey in Thomas Hardy’s Jude the Obscure
  • Biblical references in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick
  • Alternative narrative of the Biblical events in Mikhail Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita
  • The meaning of Friedrich Nietzsche’s statement “God is Dead”
  • Billy’s Christian values in Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five
  • The figure of Moses in Biblical and Quranic narratives
  • Influence of The Pilgrim’s Progress on British and American literature
  • Buddhist and Hindu motives in Herman Hesse’s Siddhartha
  • Immanuel Kant’s critique of the arguments for the existence of God and his discussion of morality
  • Søren Kierkegaard’s critique of Christianity
  • Christian narratives and metaphors in C.S. Lewis’ works

Literary Analysis Topics: Justice and Judgment

  • The Hunchback of Notre Dame : who was the monster?
  • Justice and judgment in To Kill a Mockingbird
  • The role of judgment in Jane Austen’s novels
  • Judgment in Toni Morrison’s God Help the Child
  • A view of justice in John Milton’s Paradise Lost
  • Justice in dystopian novels: works of Orwell and Huxley
  • Judgment and guilt in Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter
  • The difference between justice and revenge in Aeschylus Oresteia
  • The genre of legal thriller in American literature
  • The themes of guilt, responsibility, and punishment in Bernhard Schlink’s The Reader
  • Justice and judgment in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment
  • Courtroom drama in American and British literature
  • Behavior modification experiment as an alternative to a prison sentence in Anthony Burgess’ A Clockwork Orange
  • Jeremy Bentham’s concept of panopticon prison and its critique in the works of other authors
  • Michel Foucault’s critique of the Western penal system
  • The role of the judgment of Paris in the Trojan War according to Greek mythology
  • Depiction of racial injustice in the works of African American authors

Literature Essay Topics on Good & Evil

  • A dichotomy of good and evil in the Middle Ages
  • Monsters and heroes in Beowulf : Beowulf, Hrothgar, Grendel
  • Wilde’s aesthetics: ugly is worse than evil
  • John Milton’s Satan : the good, the bad, and the beautiful
  • Victorian literary tradition: societal norms and personal happiness
  • Villains in the 19 th – and 20 th -century literary works
  • The good and the bad: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
  • Evil forces of death in The Fall of the House of Usher
  • Presentation of good and evil in The Tempest characters
  • The contrast between Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights
  • Young Goodman Brown : a conflict between morality and temptation
  • The Creature and the humans in Frankenstein

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on War & Peace

  • Depiction of war in Shakespeare’s plays
  • The war between archangels and demons in Paradise Lost
  • War in Brecht’s Mother Courage and Her Children
  • War and peace in George Orwell’s 1984
  • Margaret Mitchell’s and Toni Morrison’s views on the Civil War
  • War as a part of human nature in Faulkner’s A Fable
  • Steinbeck’s exploration of injustice in The Grapes of Wrath
  • Wrongs of the modern society in Palahniuk’s Fight Club
  • The themes of war and nationality in Michael Ondaatje’s The English Patient
  • The Civil War as the background for Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women
  • Main themes in Erich Maria Remarque’s All Quiet on the Western Front
  • Depiction of war in Alexandre Dumas’ historical novels
  • The Cold War in John Le Carre’s novels
  • The political context of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible : The Cold War and McCarthyism
  • Depiction of war in children’s fiction
  • Leo Tolstoy’s views on history in War and Peace
  • Anti-militarism in Ernest Hemingway’s Farewell to Arms
  • Literature as a tool of cultural influence during the Cold War: The case of Boris Pasternak’s Doctor Zhivago

Literary Essay Topics on Vices on the Society

  • Thackeray: the culture of the 19th century as Vanity Fair
  • Dickens’s perspectives concerning social injustice in Oliver Twist
  • Ethnicity, discrimination, and identity in Orwell’s Burmese Days
  • Vices of totalitarian societies in George Orwell’s 1984
  • Injustice, torture, and dehumanization in Elie Wiesel’s Night
  • Vices of society in Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
  • J’Accuse: Emile Zola’s letter as critique of antisemitism and corruption
  • The emergence of transgressive fiction as a protest against conventional society
  • Critique of consumer society in Aldous Huxley’s A Brave New World
  • Social satire and political commentary in Harold Pinter’s later plays
  • Ray Bradbury’s science fiction as a means of social criticism
  • The emergence of dystopia: Evgeny Zamyatin’s We
  • Arthur Koestler’s Darkness at Noon as a critique of the totalitarian society
  • Claudius as an embodiment of human vices in Robert Graves’ I, Claudius
  • Geoffrey Chaucer’s critique of the wrongs of society in The Canterbury Tales

Interesting Literature Topics to Analyze: Literary Influences

  • Percy Bysshe Shelley’s interpretation of the Prometheus myth
  • William Shakespeare’s borrowings from ancient Greek writings and myths
  • Myths as a source of inspiration for Byron and Keats
  • Virginia Wolf’s fascination with Greek literature and Hellenism
  • James Joyce’s interpretation and use of Homer’s The Odyssey
  • Salome : Oscar Wilde’s retelling of a biblical story
  • John Milton’s exploration and interpretation of a biblical story
  • The influence of Keats’ Ode to a Nightingale on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s works
  • Biblical motifs in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
  • Don Quixote as an inspiration for Dostoyevsky’s The Idiot
  • Beowulf ’s impact on J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit
  • Shakespearean myths in Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

Literature Essay Topics: Various Genres

  • The evolution of horror fiction: from Mary Shelley to Stephen King
  • The place of fantasy in the modern literature
  • Why have fantasy novels gained such popularity today?
  • Fantasy novels by Tolkien and Martin: styles, imagery, themes
  • Major elements of modern fantasy novels and stories
  • The origins of fantasy fiction: the earliest works
  • The evolution of adventure fiction: from Homer to Fleming
  • Horror fiction: Stoker’s Dracula vs. Shelley’s Frankenstein
  • Theologus Autodidactus as an example of science fiction
  • Merging scientific and poetic elements in science fiction poetry
  • Comparing tragicomedies of Ancient Greece and 20th-century Europe
  • Significant features of a tragicomedy in postmodernist and metamodernist writings
  • Primary components of a coming-of-age novel: female and male perspectives
  • Elements of the coming-of-age novel in London’s Martin Eden
  • Satire in contemporary British and American literature
  • Satire or cynical humor: exploring Bierce’s The Devil’s Dictionary
  • Literary devices in naturalistic writing: Emile Zola’s approach
  • Elements of an antinovel in Laurence Sterne’s Tristram Shandy
  • Early examples of short stories: Charles Dickens’s style
  • Timeframes and symbols in Jonathan Nolan’s Memento Mori
  • Dystopian fiction in the 20th and 21st centuries
  • Coming-of-age novel or American dream novel: The Great Gatsby
  • The role of education and the media in dystopias
  • Crime fiction: is it pulp reading or high literature?
  • The suspense in Agatha Christies’ and Arthur Conan Doyle’s writings
  • The vampire in the 19th-century and 21st-century literature

Literary Topics: Uncommon Themes in Literature

  • Allegory and choice of animals in Orwell’s Animal Farm
  • Allegories in Faulkner’s A Rose for Emily
  • Multiculturalism and allusions in Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon
  • Faulkner’s metaphors in The Sound and the Fury
  • Imagery in Edgar Allan Poe’s famous poem The Raven
  • Music and enigma in The Raven
  • The role of personification in William Blake’s poetry
  • Comparing Ancient Greek and William Shakespeare’s iambic pentameter
  • The function of trochaic meter in Shakespeare’s works
  • Symbolism and imagery in William Blake’s poem Ah Sunflower
  • Symbols and metaphors in The Picture of Dorian Gray
  • Flower symbolism in D.H. Lawrence Odour of Chrysanthemums
  • Color as a symbol of Morrison’s God Help the Child
  • Symbolism in Le Guin’s The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas
  • Satire in Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden
  • Jane Austen’s personal traits in the narrator of Persuasion
  • Early forms of the stream of consciousness: Jane Austen’s style
  • Epistolary novels: works of Bram Stocker and Mary Shelley
  • Slave’s narrative in Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon
  • Peculiarities of addressing the reader in Shakespeare’s sonnets
  • Virginia Wolf’s stream of consciousness: narration or confession?
  • The narrator in Somerset Maugham’s Of Human Bondage
  • Authorial intrusion as a way to entice readers

🖊️ Literary Analysis Prompts: Top 21

We’ve gathered a total of 21 excellent literary analysis prompts for you. They cover a wide variety of genres and epochs, so you’ll surely find something that suits your needs. Check them out to gain inspiration for your assignment or project!

The Cask of Amontillado Literary Analysis Prompt

  • The central theme of The Cask of Amontillado is revenge. In your essay, you can analyze how suspense contributes to the revenge plot.
  • You may also explore the story’s tone and how it helps to build tension.
  • Alternatively, you can focus on the Gothic elements and their impact on the story’s atmosphere.

A Rose for Emily Literary Analysis Prompt

  • There are several important symbols in A Rose for Emily , such as a strand of hair, Emily’s house, or the ticking watch. You can dive deeper into their meaning and significance.
  • You may also focus on the story’s themes. They include death and conflict between generations.
  • Try analyzing literary devices Faulkner uses, including metaphors, irony, and personification. How do they contribute to the story’s mood?

The Story of an Hour Literary Analysis Prompt

  • One of the central themes featured in The Story of an Hour is freedom. Analyze what kind of freedom is discussed and how free the main character really is.
  • You may also explore Kate Chopin’s writing style. For example, focus on how irony complements the story’s plot and tone.
  • Another aspect that you can focus on is symbolism . Notable examples include time, death, and heart trouble.

Tell-Tale Heart Literary Analysis Prompt

  • Analyze why Edgar Allan Poe chose to tell the story in the first person. How does it contribute to the gloomy tone?
  • Or, you may focus on the story’s themes : guilt, confinement, and mental health. How are they represented?
  • Finally, you can examine the symbols in Tell-Tale Heart , such as the house, the bed, the bedroom, and the eye. Try to find out the meaning behind them.

Fahrenheit 451 Literary Analysis Prompt

  • Explore the use of animal imagery and the lack of nature descriptions in the novel.
  • You can also focus on the harmful effect of technology and its contribution to the dystopian world of Fahrenheit 451 .
  • The story’s central theme is censorship vs. freedom of speech. You may explore this conflict in your essay.

Prompt for a Literary Analysis of The Canterbury Tales

  • Analyze the themes of The Canterbury Tales . These include deceit, the church’s corruption, and the importance of company.
  • Focus on examining the writing style. Try to find out how it contributes to the tales’ tone and atmosphere.
  • You may also explore the symbols, such as clothing, appearance, and spring. If you’re curious about this literary work, check out our article on the symbols in The Canterbury Tales .

Prompt for a Literary Analysis of Barn Burning

  • Consider examining the conflict between loyalty to one’s family and obedience to the law.
  • Focus on analyzing the symbols of Barn Burning , such as the soiled egg and fire.
  • You can also explore the role of darkness in the story. Dive deeper into its contribution to the tone of Barn Burning .

Make sure to check out our Barn Burning study guide to learn more facts about the story.

Death of a Salesman Literary Analysis Prompt

  • Examine how the author covers the American dream theme in Death of a Salesman . What is the characters’ interpretation of the American dream?
  • You can also try analyzing the symbols in the play, such as diamonds, seeds, the rubber hose, and Linda’s stockings.
  • You may also focus on exploring the mythological figures connected with the story. Dive deeper into the comparisons to the Greek gods, such as Hercules and Adonis.

Want to know more? Check out our Death of a Salesman study guide .

Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

  • In your essay, you can focus on the symbols of Frankenstein , such as darkness and fire. Why are they important?
  • Another aspect you can concentrate on is the point of view. Mary Shelley writes from the perspective of 3 different characters. What does it help to achieve?
  • You can also explore the novel’s themes: sublime nature, family, creation, and dangerous knowledge. Check out our article on the themes in Frankenstein to learn more about them.

Hamlet Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

  • There are numerous themes in Hamlet that you can examine in your essay, including revenge, the supernatural, death, corruption, and politics.
  • You can also focus on the symbols of the story and their significance. They include Hamlet’s dark clothes, the skull , and the weather.
  • One of the motifs in Hamlet is misogyny. You can analyze its representation in the play.

To understand the play better, check out our Hamlet study guide .

Hamlet has been translated into Klingon.

Prompt for a Literary Analysis of Night by Elie Wiesel

  • One of the themes of Night is silence. You can explore why it is important and what it represents.
  • You can also focus on the symbolism of night and fire . Try to find out the meaning behind them.
  • Consider analyzing the characters in the novel and their actions in dramatic situations. Check out our article on characters in Night to learn more.

Othello Literary Analysis Prompt

  • One of the central themes of Othello is isolation and its dangers. Examine how it is portrayed.
  • Another theme you can analyze is that of justice. Try focusing on how the characters are driven by the desire to do always the right thing.
  • Consider exploring the famous metaphors from the play, such as jealousy being a “green-eyed monster.”

If you want to understand this literary work better, make sure to check out our Othello study guide .

Pride and Prejudice Literary Analysis Prompt

  • When it comes to the themes in Pride and Prejudice , you can focus on integrity, love, family, gender, class, and reputation.
  • Another central theme of the novel is marriage. Discuss the importance of marriage and its connection to social status and money.
  • In your essay, you can elaborate on the symbolism of dancing and its significance.

Don’t forget to check out our study guide on Pride and Prejudice to learn more about the novel’s elements.

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Literary Analysis Prompt

  • Consider analyzing the motifs of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight : games, the color green, and the seasons.
  • Apart from the motifs, you can also examine the themes of nature, chivalry, Christianity, courtesy, and truth. To learn more about them, check out our article on the themes of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight .
  • Finally, you may explore the symbolism of the green girdle. It’s an essential element of the poem and deserves special attention.

The Great Gatsby Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

  • One of the most popular symbols of The Great Gatsby is the green light. You can focus on exploring its iconic status in world literature.
  • One of the central themes of The Great Gatsby is the American dream . Analyze how it is portrayed and the author’s attitude to it.
  • Another idea for an essay is to write about the novel’s characters: Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, the Buchanans, and others. Make sure to read our article on The Great Gatsby characters to understand them better.

The Lottery Literary Analysis Prompt

  • What role do family ties play in The Lottery ? You can dive deeper into this motif and analyze its meaning and importance.
  • Another central theme of The Lottery is tradition. Your essay can focus on how dangerous it is to follow conventional practices blindly.
  • There are several symbols in the story, but the lottery itself is the key one. You can explore what it represents. And don’t forget to check out our analysis of The Lottery to learn more.

Kafka’s Metamorphosis Literary Analysis Prompt

  • One of the major themes of Metamorphosis is psychological distance. You can analyze how the main character’s transformation leads to his alienation.
  • Explore the story’s recurring symbols, such as food, the father’s uniform , and the portrait of a woman wearing furs.
  • Another point that you can focus on is the motifs of the story. They include transformation and sleep.

You’re welcome to read our The Metamorphosis study guide to learn more about the story.

The Necklace Literary Analysis Prompt

  • Consider analyzing the story’s themes. Some examples are greed, the deceptiveness of appearances, and vanity. Check out our article on The Necklace’s themes to learn all about them.
  • You can also focus on exploring the symbolism of the necklace . Try to dive deeper into how a piece of jewelry is connected to high status and wealth.
  • Explore how the class conflict is presented in The Necklace . You can also analyze the author’s attitude to it.

The Odyssey Literary Analysis Prompt

  • In your essay, focus on the epic’s main themes: vengeance, hospitality, and loyalty.
  • Homer uses many epithets in The Odyssey to describe the sea, such as “wine-dark.” Look into what they may represent.
  • Another good point for discussion is the symbolism. Consider discussing the significance of the wedding bed, the sea, eagles, and food.

To understand the poem better, check out our The Odyssey study guide .

The Yellow Wallpaper Literary Analysis Essay Prompt

  • The wallpaper is the central symbol of the story. In your essay, try to uncover its significance and how it affects the main character.
  • You can also analyze how Charlotte Perkins Gilman uses different types of irony in the story. Examples include dramatic, verbal, and situational irony.
  • You can also focus on The Yellow Wallpaper’s themes. Some of them are self-expression, mental illness, gender roles, miscommunication, and the role of women in marriage.

Don’t forget to check out our study guide if you want to know more.

Wuthering Heights Literary Analysis Prompt

  • Explore the symbolism of moors, nature, and ghosts. Emily Bronte uses these symbols to represent not only abstract ideas but also characters’ personalities.
  • You can also examine the central themes of Wuthering Heights. Some of them are love and passion, class conflict, revenge, and the supernatural.
  • Another point worth writing about is nature imagery and how the author uses it to represent the characters’ personalities. To learn about it, make sure to check out our Wuthering Heights analysis .

✍️ Writing a Literary Analysis: Step by Step

Now, after you’ve decided on your topic, it is time to write your analysis.

Don’t know where to start? Well, we got your back! Here are some steps for you to write a great literary essay.

Plagiarism definition.

If you wish to learn more, you can check out our guide on how to write a literary analysis.

Best Tips for Writing a Literary Analysis

There are many things to keep in mind when writing about literature. But there’s no need to worry: we are here to help you. Here are the four components that will help to make sure you get an excellent grade on your essay:

  • Make sure you refer to the literature you write about in the proper format. For example, the titles of plays and full-length books should be italicized, while poems and short stories should be in quotation marks. You may consult Purdue University’s excellent citation guides to be on the safe side.
  • Ensure that the quotes are properly attributed with the correct page numbers.
  • Avoid directly quoting or borrowing arguments from previously published literary analysis samples. Using the same forms of argument and language is a form of plagiarism.
  • Remember that you need a brief introduction with a clear thesis statement, distinct body paragraphs, and a cohesive conclusion. If you find it hard to write concisely, feel free to use our essay shortener to save time.

📃 Literary Analysis Example for Free

Looking for a fully-formatted literary analysis example? Look no further! Download our excellent sample in PDF format below.

The Little Match Girl is a short story by Hans Christian Andersen. It’s a touching tale about a poor girl who spends New Year’s Eve working on the streets, dreaming of a better life, and warming herself by lighting matches she failed to sell. Some of the main themes include loneliness, struggle, and cruelty.

We hope that you found some inspiration to take your essay on the next level. Let us know what literary studies topic you like the most and other literary analysis ideas you have!

❓ Literary Analysis Essay FAQs

If you’re writing a literary analysis, make sure you don’t summarize the text you are analyzing. Instead, focus on your thesis and the supporting evidence. You should also avoid using phrases such as “in my opinion.”

A literary analysis should always include information on the text’s components. They include plot, setting, themes, motifs, imagery, tone, and character analysis. Don’t forget to write about the way the author uses these elements and how they contribute to the overall work.

The introductory part of your literary analysis should include a thesis statement that conveys the structure of your essay. Don’t forget to mention the author and provide background information about the text. Remember to start your body paragraphs with a topic sentence.

A literary analysis is usually 5-paragraphs long. The introduction and conclusion consist of one paragraph each, while the main body has three.

A literary analysis is a type of writing assignment containing an analysis of a literary piece. In a literary analysis, you should evaluate and interpret the work by analyzing its plot, setting, motifs, themes, characters, and style.

Further reading:

  • Case Study Analysis Example + How-to Guide
  • How to Write a Film Analysis Essay
  • Short Story Analysis: Step by Step How-to Guide
  • How to Write a 5-Paragraph Essay: Outline, Examples, & Writing Steps
  • Literature Review Outline: Examples, Approaches, & Templates
  • Find a Topic Idea: Questia
  • A CS Research Topic Generator: Purdue University
  • 50 Critical Analysis Paper Topics: Owlcation
  • Variations on a Theme: Common Types of Literary Analysis Papers: UVM Writing Center
  • How do I find literary analysis essay topics? Baker Library
  • Literary Terms: Purdue O.W.L.
  • Literary Terms: Stanford University
  • How To Write A Literary Analysis Essay: Bucks College
  • Writing Critical Essays about Literature: Gallaudet University
  • Literature (Fiction): UNC Writing Center
  • Literary criticism: Britannica
  • Fiction vs Non-Fiction – English Literature’s Made-Up Divide: The Guardian
  • Feminist Literary Criticism: ThoughtCo
  • Feminist Criticism: Washington State University
  • A Short Guide to Close Reading for Literary Analysis: UW Madison
  • William Shakespeare Biography: Shakespeare Birthplace Trust
  • William Shakespeare: Poets.org
  • Hamlet Topic Overview: Gale
  • Macbeth – Themes: BBC
  • From Plato to Platonism: Cornell University Press
  • Sophocles: World History Encyclopedia
  • Charles Dickens, 1812-1870: University Of California
  • Heroes and the Homeric Iliad: University of Houston
  • Historical Context of Song of Solomon: Columbia College
  • The Red Badge of Courage: University of South Florida
  • William Blake: University of Delaware
  • William Butler Yeats: Yale University
  • Chaucer’s Influences: University of Glasgow
  • John Keats: King’s College London
  • UVA Commemoration Looks at King’s ‘Why We Can’t Wait’ in Light of Today’s Issues: University of Virginia
  • Alice Walker: National Museum of African American History & Culture
  • Virginia Woolf: University of London
  • Harper Lee: Encyclopedia of Alabama
  • A Rose for Emily by William Faulkner: Baruch College
  • Death of a Salesman and Death of a Salesman: The Swollen Legacy of Arthur Miller: Columbia University
  • Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: The Ohio State University
  • Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: Boston College
  • Themes In Wuthering Heights: Brooklyn College
  • The Metamorphosis: Grossman School of Medicine
  • Gothic and the Female Voice: Examining Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper”: Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute
  • The Literature Review: University of Southern California
  • Cicero (106—43 BCE): Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
  • Analyzing Novels & Short Stories: TAMU Writing Center
  • Literature Analysis: PLU Writing Center
  • What Is Analysis?: Austin Community College
  • Writing Your Literary Analysis: University of Hawaii
  • Literary Analysis Paper: Western Michigan University
  • Share to Facebook
  • Share to Twitter
  • Share to LinkedIn
  • Share to email

A List of 580 Interesting Research Topics [2024 Edition]

In school and college, you will be required to write research papers. Yes — papers in the plural. And that’s the first reason you may want to turn to Custom Writing and seek help with research projects. When assigned a paper, the very first undertaking is to choose from a...

335 Unique Essay Topics for College Students [2024 Update]

The success of any college essay depends on the topic choice. If you want to impress your instructors, your essay needs to be interesting and unique. Don’t know what to write about? We are here to help you! In this article by our Custom-Writing.org team, you will find 335 interesting...

147 Social Studies Topics for Your Research Project

Social studies is an integrated research field. It includes a range of topics on social science and humanities, such as history, culture, geography, sociology, education, etc. A social studies essay might be assigned to any middle school, high school, or college student. It might seem like a daunting task, but...

626 Dissertation Topics for Ph.D. and Thesis Ideas for Master Students

If you are about to go into the world of graduate school, then one of the first things you need to do is choose from all the possible dissertation topics available to you. This is no small task. You are likely to spend many years researching your Master’s or Ph.D....

192 Free Ideas for Argumentative or Persuasive Essay Topics

Looking for a good argumentative essay topic? In need of a persuasive idea for a research paper? You’ve found the right page! Academic writing is never easy, whether it is for middle school or college. That’s why there are numerous educational materials on composing an argumentative and persuasive essay, for...

209 Sports Topics: Argumentative Essay & Persuasive Speech Ideas

Persuasive speech is the art of convincing the audience to understand and trust your opinion. Are you ready to persuade someone in your view? Our list of sports persuasive speech topics will help you find a position to take and defend. If you need more options quick, apart from contents...

Top 100 Research Topics & Titles about Food & TVL

When you look for a good research paper topic, you can easily become the severest critic of any proposed idea. Some topics do not interest you at the very least, while others might shock your teachers. Where is the golden mean? Check out this list of top 100 research paper...

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics: Best Ideas for 2024

Can there possibly be anything fun about academic writing? It seems there is – what are all those fun persuasive speech topics then for, after all? However, creating a bunch of good topics might seem hard the first time around. No need to worry though – there’s always plenty of...

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics: 285 Simple Ideas for 2024

A persuasive speech on any topic is a performance designed to convince people about something and prove your point. Choosing a suitable topic is crucial for your speech’s success. Do you need some help with finding easy topics for a persuasive speech? Then check these fantastic and easy ideas from...

Good Informative Speech Topics: How to Get Thunders of Applause

Do you know the secret place where people go to get their good informative speech topics? Looking for an interesting topic for speech? Congratulations, because you’ve just found it! So, if you’re ready to get some really good topics for an informative speech, all you need to do is to...

348 Interesting Proposal Essay Topics and Ideas for 2024

A proposal argument is an essay in which you describe a specific issue that needs fixing. It focuses on problem solutions. Are you interested in writing high-quality proposal essays? Or maybe you’re wondering what can make your writing truly outstanding? Here you will find answers to these questions as well...

217 Motivational & Inspirational Essay Topics

Sometimes you just wish there was a marketplace with vendors shouting, “Topics for argument essays! Who wants inspirational topics to write about?” Well, you are lucky enough: you’ll find plenty of inspiring things here! Coming up with some argument essay topics is quite easy! In this article, you’ll find some...

Thank you so much! That gave me a great start!

assignment topics for english literature

100 Best Literary Research Topics – Fresh Perspectives on Literature Pieces

Selecting the right literature topics for a research paper work can be challenging due to the wealth of literary works and themes available. To find the perfect topic, focus on your personal character interests, the scope of your assignment, and the availability of resources or requirements of American universities. Reflect on the literary periods, authors, or themes that captivate you, and investigate potential questions or ideas related to them. Seeking guidance from your instructor or peers can also be beneficial, as can browsing academic journals, literary critiques, or scholarly databases to discover trending literature research paper topics or ongoing debates in the literary and cultural field.

How to Understand If a Topic Is Good?

Choose literary topics for research paper works that genuinely interest you ensure there is a sufficient amount of primary and secondary sources, and contribute to the existing body of knowledge. You need to determine if literary research topics in history are suitable for your literary research paper, consider the factors: interest and engagement with the literary research topic, the scope and maintenance of the subject.

Test it with an Outline

You need to create a preliminary outline for your paper, organizing your ideas and potential arguments logically. Together with our research paper writing service , you gain the success results. In another way, you can concentrate on the text`s main points and reveal the literary research topics intricacy, pertinence, and scope.

Write a Thesis Statement

Craft a premise statement that encapsulates your central argument and offers a fresh perspective on your chosen literature research paper ideas to ensure it is neither overly broad. An effective premise statement should be clear, concise, and debatable, sparking further discussion and analysis, and if you feel troubled with managing this task our website writes for you any essay .

List of Literature Research Topics

When choosing literary research topics, consider exploring various spheres of interest that offer diverse subjects for examination. For instance, focus on the works of specific authors, the characteristics of a particular literary period, or the themes and poetry that recur across different eras. Delve into the representation of historical and social issues in literary research topics, such as gender roles, race, or mental health, and investigate how to make the list of the best research paper topics . By examining American literature research topics, you can find literature topics for research that resonates with your interests and contributes to the existing body of literary knowledge. Additionally, you may explore genres like science fiction or magical poetry, examining their impact on society and culture. Investigating the relationship between literature and other disciplines, such as philosophy, psychology, or history, can also yield fascinating American or British lit research paper topics.

British Literature Research Paper Topics

You can investigate captivating elements of literary research paper topics through an array of research work topics. By scrutinizing distinct themes, genres, and historical eras, you can profoundly comprehend the multifaceted and diverse landscape of English literary research subjects and their impact on American authors. This exploration allows you to broaden your knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a genuine appreciation for the creative and intellectual contributions within the field of English literature research topics.

  • Gender Roles in Shakespeare’s Plays.
  • Power Representation in Jane Austen’s Novels.
  • Love and Marriage in John Donne’s Poetry.
  • Gothic literature’s influence on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
  • Imperialism in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness.
  • Symbolism in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies.
  • Nature’s Role in William Wordsworth’s Poetry.
  • Social Class in George Eliot’s Middlemarch.
  • Supernatural Elements in Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
  • World War I’s Impact on Early 20th-Century Literature.

American Literature Topics

From iconic novels to influential authors, these literary research topics encompass the essence of American identity, history, and culture. Unravel the complexities of this vast literary landscape as you delve into themes of race, ethnicity, the American Dream, and more, uncovering the unique perspectives and voices that have shaped and defined American literature throughout the centuries.

  • The American Identity in Toni Morrison’s Beloved.
  • The American Dream in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby.
  • The American Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter.
  • Race and ethnicity in James Baldwin’s Go Tell It on the Mountain.
  • The American Slavery in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
  • Road Trip in Jack Kerouac’s On the Road.
  • Magical Realism in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude.
  • The American Civil Rights Movement’s Impact on 1960s American Literature.
  • The American Religion in Flannery O’Connor’s works.
  • The American West in Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian.

Science Fiction Literary Research Essay Topics

With these topics, you can delve into a myriad of literary research topics that explore the depths of futuristic societies, alternate realities, and advanced technology. Unearth the themes, symbolism, and socio-political commentary embedded within these stories, fostering a deeper appreciation for the power and allure of sci-fi literary research topics.

  • Artificial Intelligence in Asimov’s “I, Robot” and Dick’s “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”
  • Dystopia in Orwell’s “1984” and Huxley’s “Brave New World.”
  • Alienation in Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451” and Vonnegut’s “Cat’s Cradle.”
  • Time Travel in Wells’ “The Time Machine” and L’Engle’s “A Wrinkle in Time.”
  • Genetic Engineering in Huxley’s “Brave New World” and Atwood’s “Oryx and Crake.”
  • Environmentalism in Herbert’s “Dune” and Butler’s “Parable of the Sower.”
  • Virtual Reality in Gibson’s “Neuromancer” and Stephenson’s “Snow Crash.”
  • Post-apocalyptic settings in McCarthy’s “The Road” and Mandel’s “Station Eleven.”
  • Identity in Le Guin’s “The Left Hand of Darkness” and Delany’s “Dhalgren.”
  • Extraterrestrial Life in Clarke’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” and Lem’s “Solaris.”

High School Literary Research Essay Topics

These subjects should be carefully selected for their relevance and appeal, they provide the perfect foundation for developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and a love for literature. Discover thought-provoking issues relevant to high school readers with these high school literary research topics. By delving into contemporary literary research topics that resonate with teenage audiences, you can foster a greater appreciation for literature and its impact on young minds.

  • Mental Illness in Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye” and Plath’s “The Bell Jar.”
  • Symbolism in Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter” and its relevance today.
  • Identity and Self-Discovery in Baldwin’s “Go Tell It on the Mountain” and Walker’s “The Color Purple.”
  • Racism and inequality in Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” and Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye.”
  • Nature and Symbolism in Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights” and Frost’s works.
  • Isolation and Loneliness in Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men” and Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
  • Gender Roles in Bronte’s “Jane Eyre” and Chopin’s “The Awakening.”
  • Magical Realism in Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude” and Allende’s “The House of the Spirits.”
  • War and its effects in Hemingway’s “A Farewell to Arms” and Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse-Five.”
  • The American Dream in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and Miller’s “Death of a Salesman.”

Modernist Literature Research Paper Topics

Discover interesting literature topics of self-discovery, rebellion, and experimental styles that resonate with teenagers, while gaining an understanding of the cultural and historical influences that fuelled this revolutionary movement. Fell the groundbreaking literary movements in these modernist research topics in literature and chose the best one for you.

  • Fragmentation in Modernist Literature: Joyce’s Ulysses and Eliot’s The Waste Land.
  • Modernist Literature and Trauma: Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway and Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises.
  • World War I’s Influence on Modernist Literature: Owen’s Works and Ford’s Parade’s End.
  • Time in Modernist Literature: Proust’s In Search of Lost Time and Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury.
  • Women’s Role in Modernist Literature: Barnes’ Nightwood and Rhys’ Wide Sargasso Sea.
  • Identity in Modernist Literature: Baldwin’s Go Tell It on the Mountain and Ellison’s Invisible Man.
  • Stream of Consciousness in Modernist Literature: Mansfield’s “Bliss” and Woolf’s To the Lighthouse.
  • Modernist Literature and the City: Pound’s “In a Station of the Metro” and Eliot’s “Preludes.”
  • Modernist Literature and the Movement: Pound’s The Cantos and H.D.’s Trilogy.
  • The “Lost Generation” in Modernist Literature: Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises and Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby.

Renaissance Literature Research Paper Topics

The era, characterized by a remarkable resurgence in culture, art, and intellectual pursuits, has impacted the trajectory of human civilization. Uncover the rich tapestry of the revival literary research topics for your literary research paper.

  • Love in Shakespeare’s Sonnets
  • Women in Twelfth Night and the Duchess of Malfi
  • Humanism in Utopia and Petrarch’s Sonnets
  • Fate in Romeo and Juliet and Doctor Faustus
  • Courtly Love in the Faerie Queene and Astrophil and Stella
  • Classical Themes in Julius Caesar and Dido, Queen of Carthage
  • Reformation in Paradise Lost and the Temple
  • Power in Macbeth and The Revenger’s Tragedy
  • Revival Influence on Hamlet and the Spanish Tragedy
  • Kingship between Richard II and Edward II

Controversial Literature Research Paper Topics

Debate and analyze character issues in literature with these controversial literature literary research topics. These subjects allow you to explore literary research topics, ethical dilemmas, and social commentaries within literary works, providing an opportunity for intellectual growth and open dialogue.

  • Mental Illness Portrayal in Literature: Helpful or Harmful?
  • Cultural Appropriation in Literature Ethics.
  • Racial Slurs Use in Literature Controversy.
  • Trigger Warnings in Literature and Free Speech Impact.
  • Censorship Effects on Literature and Society.
  • Authorial Intent Ethics in Literary Interpretation.
  • Sexuality Representation in Literature Controversy.
  • Violence against Women’s Portrayal in Literature and Society’s Impact.
  • Cancel Culture’s Impact on Literature and Publishing.
  • Literary Classics Value Debate in Modern Society.

World Literature Research Topics

Embark on a literary journey around the globe with these World literary research topics.

  • War Depiction in Global Literature
  • Novel Evolution in Different Cultures
  • Immigration and Diaspora in Literature
  • Love and Relationships in Global Literature
  • Colonialism’s Impact on Global Literature
  • Mythology in Global Literature
  • Cultural Identity in International Literature
  •  Political Oppression and Resistance Themes
  • Eastern Philosophy’s Influence on Western Literature
  • Spirituality and Religion in Global Literature

Literature Research Paper Topics for Students

These literary research topics are designed to challenge students’ critical thinking and analytical skills while fostering a deeper appreciation for literature.

  • Technology’s Impact on Contemporary Literature.
  • LGBTQ+ Community Portrayal in Literature.
  • Mental Health Representation in Young Adult Literature.
  • Feminism’s Role in Shaping Contemporary Literature.
  • Globalization’s Impact on Literature and Culture.
  • Social Justice and Activism Themes in Modern Literature.
  • Race and Ethnicity in Contemporary Literature.
  • Postmodernism’s Influence on Contemporary Literature.
  • Environment and Climate Change Representation in Literature.
  • Science Fiction’s Role in Reflecting and Shaping Contemporary Society.

Modern Literature Research Paper Topics

Analyze the intricacies of modern literary research topics masterpieces for university students.

  • Magic Realism in Garcia Marquez’s Works
  • Morrison and Baldwin’s Literary Techniques
  • Feminism in Alice Munro’s Short Stories
  • Postmodernism in Don Delillo’s Novels
  • Mental Illness in the Bell Jar and the Yellow Wallpaper
  • Identity in Adichie and Lahiri’s Works
  • Colonialism’s Impact on Achebe and Ngugi WA Thiong’O
  • Stream of Consciousness in Mrs. Dalloway and Ulysses
  • Masculinity in Hemingway’s Novels
  • Memory Role in Kazuo Ishiguro’s Novels

Ancient Literature Research Topics

Delve into the origins of storytelling and literary research topics for your literary research paper. These literary research topics will allow you to investigate various themes, genres, and styles across different time periods, ultimately enhancing your appreciation for the transformative power of storytelling. 

  • Women in Greek Tragedies
  • Mythology in Homer & Virgil Epic
  • Poetry: Greece vs Rome
  • Prophecy in Greek Tragedies
  • Fate in Oedipus Rex & Macbeth
  • Dreams in Egyptian Literature
  • Gods in Mesopotamian Literature
  • Love Poetry: India & China
  • Oral Tradition in African Literature
  • Karma in Mahabharata 

In conclusion, selecting literary research topics is an essential step in the writing process, as it sets the foundation for your entire paper. Explore various subjects within English, American, or global literature, and consider literary research topics such as gender roles, power representation, or the impact of historical events on literature discuss. Remember to choose literary research topics that genuinely interest you, as this will make the literature discussion and writing process more enjoyable and engaging. Test your literary research topics with an outline and a premise statement to ensure it is focused, specific, and manageable.

You May Also Be Interested In

Qualitative exploration is valuable for understanding human behavior, beliefs, and experiences. This article will explore…

Social work research paper topics help improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities by…

Always Ready to Help

Running out of time.

Type to search

Literature Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing Service

This page provides a comprehensive guide to literature research paper topics , offering an extensive list divided into twenty categories, each with ten unique topics. Students can navigate the immense landscape of literature, including classical, contemporary, and multicultural dimensions, literary theory, specific authors’ studies, genre analyses, and historical contexts. From understanding how to choose the right topic to crafting an insightful literature research paper, this guide serves as a one-stop resource. Furthermore, iResearchNet’s writing services are presented, providing students with the opportunity to order a custom literature research paper with a range of impressive features, including expert writers, in-depth research, top-quality work, and guaranteed satisfaction. By exploring this page, students can find invaluable assistance and inspiration to embark on their literature research journey.

200 Literature Research Paper Topics

Literature is an expansive field that encompasses a multitude of subcategories. Below, we offer 200 literature research paper topics, neatly divided into twenty categories. Each of these themes presents a rich array of options to inspire your next research paper.

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

  • The representation of heroism in Homer’s “Iliad”
  • The concept of fate in ancient Greek tragedies
  • Female characters in Sophocles’ plays
  • The importance of dialogue in Plato’s philosophical works
  • The depiction of Gods in “The Odyssey”
  • Tragic love in Virgil’s “Aeneid”
  • Prophecy and divination in ancient Greek literature
  • Wisdom in the works of Socrates
  • The portrayal of Athens in Aristophanes’ comedies
  • Stoicism in Seneca’s letters and essays
  • Christian symbolism in Dante’s “Divine Comedy”
  • The depiction of women in “The Canterbury Tales”
  • Heroism in “Beowulf”
  • The significance of dreams in medieval literature
  • Religious conflict in “The Song of Roland”
  • The concept of courtly love in “Tristan and Isolde”
  • The role of magic in Arthurian literature
  • The representation of chivalry in “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight”
  • Life and death in “The Book of the Dead”
  • The theme of rebellion in “The Decameron”
  • The influence of humanism in Shakespeare’s plays
  • Love and beauty in Petrarch’s sonnets
  • The representation of monarchy in “The Faerie Queene”
  • The depiction of the New World in “Utopia”
  • The power of speech in “Othello”
  • Metaphysical poetry and John Donne
  • Tragedy and revenge in “Hamlet”
  • Women in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
  • The concept of the ideal ruler in Machiavelli’s “The Prince”
  • Religion and superstition in “Macbeth”
  • The use of satire in Jonathan Swift’s works
  • Romantic love in “Pride and Prejudice”
  • The depiction of the bourgeoisie in “Candide”
  • The role of women in “Moll Flanders”
  • The critique of society in “Gulliver’s Travels”
  • The supernatural in “The Castle of Otranto”
  • Enlightenment principles in “Persuasion”
  • The concept of sensibility in “Sense and Sensibility”
  • The epistolary form in “Dangerous Liaisons”
  • The critique of colonialism in “Oroonoko”
  • Romanticism in the works of Wordsworth and Coleridge
  • The depiction of the working class in Dickens’ novels
  • The portrayal of women in the Brontë sisters’ works
  • The theme of isolation in “Frankenstein”
  • The symbolism in Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter”
  • The role of nature in Thoreau’s “Walden”
  • The representation of Paris in Hugo’s “Les Misérables”
  • The conflict between passion and reason in “Anna Karenina”
  • The exploration of the American South in Twain’s works
  • The representation of the Industrial Revolution in literature
  • The stream of consciousness technique in Joyce’s “Ulysses”
  • The fragmentation of identity in Eliot’s “The Waste Land”
  • The depiction of war in Hemingway’s works
  • The influence of psychoanalysis on Woolf’s novels
  • The depiction of the Lost Generation in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • The role of time in Faulkner’s “The Sound and the Fury”
  • The absurd in Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”
  • The theme of alienation in Hesse’s “Steppenwolf”
  • The exploration of gender in Barnes’ “Nightwood”
  • The use of free indirect discourse in Flaubert’s “Madame Bovary”
  • Metafiction in Calvino’s “If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler”
  • The interplay of history and fiction in Pynchon’s “Gravity’s Rainbow”
  • The critique of consumer culture in DeLillo’s “White Noise”
  • The use of magic realism in Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • The postcolonial perspective in Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children”
  • The exploration of language in Barth’s “The Sot-Weed Factor”
  • The representation of postmodern society in Wallace’s “Infinite Jest”
  • The theme of power in Foucault’s works
  • The concept of the author in Barthes’ “The Death of the Author”
  • The fragmentation of narrative in Auster’s “New York Trilogy”
  • The theme of the American Dream in Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath”
  • The use of dialect in Morrison’s “Beloved”
  • The influence of transcendentalism on Emerson’s essays
  • The theme of identity in Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”
  • The depiction of the Great Depression in Steinbeck’s works
  • The conflict between individualism and society in Miller’s “Death of a Salesman”
  • The representation of the South in O’Connor’s stories
  • The influence of race and class in Baldwin’s “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
  • The exploration of freedom in Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye”
  • The theme of disillusionment in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • The role of the supernatural in Shakespeare’s plays
  • The depiction of Victorian society in Austen’s novels
  • The exploration of morality in Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”
  • The theme of madness in Stoker’s “Dracula”
  • The influence of the Romantic Movement on Wordsworth’s poetry
  • The representation of London in Dickens’ novels
  • The critique of colonialism in Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness”
  • The exploration of the human condition in Woolf’s “To the Lighthouse”
  • The theme of social class in Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights”
  • The use of symbolism in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”
  • The exploration of existentialism in Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”
  • The theme of love and jealousy in Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina”
  • The representation of the Russian Revolution in Bulgakov’s “The Master and Margarita”
  • The use of magical realism in Gogol’s “The Nose”
  • The depiction of war in Tolstoy’s “War and Peace”
  • The role of faith in Dostoevsky’s “The Brothers Karamazov”
  • The exploration of freedom in Solzhenitsyn’s “One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich”
  • The theme of rebellion in Turgenev’s “Fathers and Sons”
  • The representation of Siberia in Chekhov’s “Sakhalin Island”
  • The use of satire in Ilf and Petrov’s “The Twelve Chairs”
  • The portrayal of post-colonial society in Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”
  • The theme of identity in Coetzee’s “Disgrace”
  • The exploration of gender roles in Aidoo’s “Anowa”
  • The representation of apartheid in Gordimer’s “July’s People”
  • The use of folklore in Tutuola’s “The Palm-Wine Drinkard”
  • The depiction of urban life in Mwangi’s “Going Down River Road”
  • The theme of corruption in Soyinka’s “King Baabu”
  • The portrayal of women in Dangarembga’s “Nervous Conditions”
  • The influence of Islam in Salih’s “Season of Migration to the North”
  • The exploration of freedom in Ngugi’s “A Grain of Wheat”
  • The portrayal of family dynamics in Tan’s “The Joy Luck Club”
  • The exploration of historical memory in Ishiguro’s “Never Let Me Go”
  • The theme of spirituality in Tagore’s “Gitanjali”
  • The influence of political change in Ha Jin’s “Waiting”
  • The depiction of society in Murakami’s “Norwegian Wood”
  • The exploration of gender in Adichie’s “Purple Hibiscus”
  • The theme of alienation in Lahiri’s “The Namesake”
  • The representation of war in Hosseini’s “The Kite Runner”
  • The portrayal of tradition and change in Roy’s “The God of Small Things”
  • The exploration of culture and identity in Jin’s “A Free Life”
  • The use of magical realism in Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • The exploration of totalitarianism in Carpentier’s “The Lost Steps”
  • The theme of death in Rulfo’s “Pedro Paramo”
  • The influence of indigenous culture in Arguedas’ “Deep Rivers”
  • The depiction of urban life in Bolaño’s “The Savage Detectives”
  • The theme of revolution in Cortázar’s “Hopscotch”
  • The representation of family dynamics in Allende’s “The House of the Spirits”
  • The portrayal of political struggle in Neruda’s “Canto General”
  • The exploration of time and memory in Borges’ “Ficciones”
  • The influence of magical realism in Garcia Marquez’s “Love in the Time of Cholera”
  • The exploration of gender roles in Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • The theme of independence in Bronte’s “Jane Eyre”
  • The influence of society on women in Woolf’s “A Room of One’s Own”
  • The depiction of family in Morrison’s “Beloved”
  • The representation of women’s rights in Chopin’s “The Awakening”
  • The portrayal of female resilience in Alcott’s “Little Women”
  • The exploration of women’s psyche in Plath’s “The Bell Jar”
  • The influence of feminism in Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • The depiction of womanhood in Walker’s “The Color Purple”
  • The portrayal of female friendships in Wharton’s “The Age of Innocence”
  • The exploration of consciousness in Joyce’s “Ulysses”
  • The influence of war on society in Hemingway’s “A Farewell to Arms”
  • The representation of fragmented identity in Eliot’s “The Waste Land”
  • The influence of industrialization in Lawrence’s “Sons and Lovers”
  • The depiction of sexuality in Miller’s “Tropic of Cancer”
  • The exploration of existentialism in Kafka’s “The Trial”
  • The theme of individualism in Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway”
  • The portrayal of colonialism in Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness”
  • The exploration of language in Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”
  • Marxist criticism in “The Grapes of Wrath”
  • Psychoanalytic criticism in “Hamlet”
  • Feminist criticism in “The Yellow Wallpaper”
  • Postcolonial criticism in “Wide Sargasso Sea”
  • New Criticism and “The Road Not Taken”
  • Queer Theory and “Giovanni’s Room”
  • Structuralist criticism and “To the Lighthouse”
  • Reader-Response criticism and “Don Quixote”
  • Ecocriticism and “The Lorax”
  • Postmodern criticism and “Infinite Jest”
  • Existentialism in Camus’s “The Stranger”
  • Utilitarianism in Dickens’s “Hard Times”
  • Transcendentalism in Thoreau’s “Walden”
  • Stoicism in Aurelius’s “Meditations”
  • Nihilism in Dostoevsky’s “Notes from Underground”
  • Absurdism in Ionesco’s “Rhinoceros”
  • Idealism in Plato’s “The Republic”
  • Empiricism in Locke’s “An Essay Concerning Human Understanding”
  • Pragmatism in James’s “Pragmatism”
  • Objectivism in Rand’s “Atlas Shrugged”
  • The reflection of Victorian society in Dickens’s “Great Expectations”
  • Critique of American Dream in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Race relations in Morrison’s “Beloved”
  • Exploration of societal norms in Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • Portrayal of post-war society in Heller’s “Catch-22”
  • Examination of social class in Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights”
  • The influence of societal change in Orwell’s “1984”
  • Depiction of colonial society in Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”
  • Examination of gender roles in Chopin’s “The Awakening”
  • Exploration of rural life in Hardy’s “Far From The Madding Crowd”
  • The evolution of the fantasy genre in Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”
  • The elements of mystery in Doyle’s “Sherlock Holmes”
  • The origins of science fiction in Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
  • The use of horror elements in King’s “The Shining”
  • The definition of modern romance in Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • The impact of dystopian genre in Orwell’s “1984”
  • The use of symbolism in the magical realism genre in Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • The elements of satire in Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”
  • The exploration of tragedy in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”
  • The structure of classic comedy in Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest”
  • The use of symbolism in works by Virginia Woolf
  • Examination of themes across the novels of Toni Morrison
  • Influence of historical context on the works of Charles Dickens
  • Exploration of narrative style in the works of Ernest Hemingway
  • Examination of William Shakespeare’s contribution to English literature
  • The influence of personal life on the works of Sylvia Plath
  • Comparison of themes across the poetry of Emily Dickinson
  • Analysis of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s exploration of human psychology
  • Examination of J.R.R. Tolkien’s creation and expansion of the fantasy genre
  • The influence of postmodernism on the works of Thomas Pynchon

With this comprehensive list of topics across 20 different categories, students can find an array of literature research paper topics that align with their interests and academic objectives.

Browse More Literature Research Paper Topics:

  • 1984 Research Paper Topics
  • A Raisin in the Sun Research Paper Topics
  • A Rose for Emily Research Paper Topics
  • African Literature Research Paper Topics
  • African American Literature Research Paper Topics
  • American Literature Research Paper Topics
  • Brave New World Research Paper Topics
  • British Literature Research Paper Topics
  • Death of a Salesman Research Paper Topics
  • Edgar Allan Poe Research Paper Topics
  • English Literature Research Paper Topics
  • Fahrenheit 451 Research Paper Topics
  • Frankenstein Research Paper Topics
  • French Literature Research Paper Topics
  • The Grapes of Wrath Research Paper Topics
  • Great Expectations Research Paper Topics
  • Hamlet Research Paper Topics
  • Heart of Darkness Research Paper Topics
  • Julius Caesar Research Paper Topics
  • Kite Runner Research Paper Topics
  • Macbeth Research Paper Topics
  • Life of Pi Research Paper Topics
  • Literary Analysis Research Paper Topics
  • Literature and Film Research Paper Topics
  • One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Research Paper Topics
  • Pride and Prejudice Research Paper Topics
  • Shakespeare Research Paper Topics
  • The Bluest Eye Research Paper Topics
  • The Color Purple Research Paper Topics
  • The Crucible Research Paper Topics
  • The Great Gatsby Research Paper Topics
  • The Metamorphosis Research Paper Topics
  • The Scarlet Letter Research Paper Topics
  • Things Fall Apart Research Paper Topics
  • To Kill a Mockingbird Research Paper Topics
  • World Literature Research Paper Topics

Literature and the Range of Research Paper Topics It Offers

Literature is an art form that has the power to convey emotions, evoke feelings, and bring about a change in society. This dynamic nature makes it an ideal subject for research as it encompasses an expansive array of genres, periods, themes, and techniques. In a literature research paper, one can delve into numerous facets of this intricate art form, leading to an extensive range of topics for exploration.

Literature comes in various forms, including novels, short stories, plays, and poems. Each of these forms has unique characteristics, providing ample research paper topics. For instance, one can study the evolution of the novel, the structures and styles of different kinds of poetry, or the distinct elements of drama. Moreover, one can analyze specific works or authors, examining the usage of literary devices, narrative techniques, or character development.

Furthermore, literature is closely tied to culture and history. As a result, it serves as a rich source of information about the societies in which it was created. A literature research paper can explore how different periods in history influenced the literature of the time. Topics in this category can encompass the exploration of themes in specific literary periods such as Romanticism, the Victorian Era, Modernism, or Postmodernism.

Literature also plays a pivotal role in shaping and reflecting societal norms, values, and beliefs. Therefore, one can conduct research on how literature addresses various social issues such as gender, race, class, or power dynamics. For instance, feminist readings of literature, analyses of postcolonial literature, or studies on representation in literature could all make excellent research paper topics.

Moreover, literature is a global phenomenon. Each region has its unique literary traditions, styles, and themes, leading to a wealth of research paper topics. For example, students might choose to study African American literature, Latin American literature, European literature, or Asian literature. They could examine how different cultures and societies influence the narrative structures, themes, and characters in these texts.

Another exciting aspect of literature is its ability to experiment with language and form. Avant-garde movements, such as surrealism or postmodernism, often push the boundaries of what literature can do. In this regard, one could study the evolution of literary styles, the use of innovative narrative structures, or the role of intertextuality in literature.

Not to forget, literature does not operate in isolation. It often interacts with other forms of art and media. For example, research could focus on the adaptation of novels into films, the influence of visual arts on poetry, or the intersection of literature and music.

Finally, theoretical approaches to literature offer a plethora of research paper topics. From structuralism, psychoanalysis, and deconstruction, to reader-response theory, feminist theory, and queer theory, these lenses provide different ways to interpret and understand literature.

In conclusion, the study of literature is vast, spanning across time, geography, forms, and themes. Whether one is interested in specific literary works, authors, themes, periods, or theoretical approaches, literature provides a wide array of research paper topics. Each topic is a gateway to understanding not just the text itself, but also the wider world around us. The study of literature, therefore, is not only an exploration of the text, but also an investigation into human nature, societal structures, and cultural phenomena.

How to Choose Literature Research Paper Topics

Choosing a literature research paper topic can be as intriguing as the study of literature itself. However, with such a vast array of options, it might also seem overwhelming. Here are some tips to guide you through the process of selecting the ideal topic that aligns with your interests and academic requirements.

  • Identify Your Area of Interest : Begin by identifying the aspect of literature that fascinates you the most. It could be a specific genre, literary period, author, literary technique, theme, or theoretical approach. Having an interest in your chosen area will fuel your curiosity, making the research process more enjoyable and engaging.
  • Familiarity with the Subject : Choose a topic that you are familiar with or willing to learn about. If you select a subject you know little about, make sure you’re ready to spend time understanding its intricacies before you start your research.
  • Scope of the Topic : Keep in mind the breadth and depth of the potential topic. While it should be narrow enough to manage within the constraints of your research paper, it should also be broad enough to provide ample material for research.
  • Check the Available Resources : Before finalizing the topic, ensure there are enough scholarly resources available for your research. This includes academic articles, books, critical essays, and other primary and secondary sources.
  • Relevance to Coursework : Your topic should align with the objectives of your coursework. It’s wise to reflect on what you have learned in your literature classes and try to incorporate that knowledge into your research.
  • Unique Perspective : The best research papers offer a fresh perspective or new insight into a text or topic. Try to formulate a topic that allows you to explore an unconventional viewpoint or an understudied aspect of the text.
  • Consider the Audience : Keep your audience in mind while choosing your topic. The level of complexity and the angle of your topic might vary depending on whether your audience comprises of your classmates, a panel of professors, or a broader academic community.
  • Adaptability : Your topic should be flexible enough to adapt as you delve deeper into your research. It’s common to refine or reframe your research question as you discover new information.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach : Consider topics that allow for an interdisciplinary approach. Literature frequently intersects with history, philosophy, psychology, and other disciplines, and these intersections often lead to enriching research.
  • Consult with Your Advisor : Always consult with your academic advisor or professor before finalizing your topic. They can provide valuable feedback, guide you towards useful resources, and help you refine your research question.

In conclusion, choosing a literature research paper topic is a thoughtful process that involves introspection, preliminary research, and consultation. Remember, the journey of research is just as important as the destination. The process of choosing your topic, thus, should ignite curiosity and prepare you for the intellectual adventure that is to come. With careful consideration and planning, you can choose a literature research paper topic that is engaging, manageable, and academically rewarding.

How to Write a Literature Research Paper

The journey of crafting a literature research paper is a significant part of a student’s academic voyage. It involves the exploration of themes, characters, contexts, and literary techniques that make up the literary world. Here are ten tips to help you navigate the process of writing a literature research paper:

  • Understanding the Assignment : Begin by thoroughly understanding your assignment. Note down the specific requirements regarding the length, format, citation style, and deadline. Make sure you understand the objective of the research paper and what is expected of you.
  • Choosing the Topic : As mentioned in the previous section, choosing the right topic is crucial. Make sure your topic aligns with your interest, has ample scholarly resources, and fits the scope of your assignment.
  • Preliminary Research and Thesis Statement : Conduct preliminary research to familiarize yourself with your topic. Based on your research, create a clear, concise, and arguable thesis statement. This will act as the backbone of your research paper, guiding your arguments and analysis.
  • Creating an Outline : An outline will help you organize your thoughts and arguments systematically. It typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs for each argument or point of analysis, and a conclusion.
  • In-Depth Research : Dig deeper into the topic, using a mix of primary and secondary sources. Primary sources in literature often refer to the text(s) you are analyzing, while secondary sources include scholarly articles, essays, and books that comment on these texts.
  • Close Reading and Analysis : Engage in a close reading of the primary text(s). Look for symbols, motifs, themes, character development, plot structure, and literary devices. Your analysis of these elements should support your thesis statement.
  • Writing the Draft : Start writing your paper based on the outline. Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and that your arguments are well-supported with evidence from the text(s). Use quotes sparingly and always explain their significance to your argument.
  • Citations and Formatting : Follow the citation style specified in your assignment. Properly citing your sources avoids plagiarism and gives credit to the scholars whose work you are building upon. Be consistent with formatting rules related to margins, font size, headers, and footnotes.
  • Revising and Editing : Always leave enough time for revising and editing. Revising involves looking at the overall structure, flow, clarity, and strength of your arguments. Editing involves fixing grammatical errors, punctuation, and spelling.
  • Peer Review and Feedback : Have a classmate, friend, or mentor review your paper. They can provide fresh insights, point out unnoticed errors, and suggest improvements.

In conclusion, writing a literature research paper is a process that requires patience, diligence, and creativity. While the process may seem daunting, it offers an opportunity to delve deeper into the realm of literature, strengthening your analytical skills and understanding of the text. Remember, writing is a process of exploration and discovery, and every step brings you closer to a rewarding academic achievement.

iResearchNet Writing Services

For custom literature research paper.

Writing a literature research paper can be a challenging task. You may have other academic commitments, or you may be struggling to find a way to navigate through the immense sea of literary resources. In such situations, you might want a dependable partner to aid you, and this is where iResearchNet comes in. iResearchNet offers an extensive range of writing services that cater to students like you who need assistance with their literature research papers.

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers : iResearchNet prides itself on its team of professional writers who hold advanced degrees in literature and related fields. These writers have a profound understanding of both classic and contemporary literature and are proficient in various literary analysis techniques.
  • Custom Written Works : iResearchNet believes in originality. Each literature research paper is crafted from scratch based on the specific requirements and guidelines provided by you.
  • In-depth Research : The writers at iResearchNet conduct thorough and meticulous research. They explore a variety of sources to gather relevant and up-to-date information to build a strong foundation for your paper.
  • Custom Formatting : Formatting is a significant aspect of a research paper that cannot be overlooked. iResearchNet’s writers are proficient in various formatting styles, including APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, and Harvard.
  • Top Quality : Quality is the topmost priority for iResearchNet. The company adheres to strict quality control measures to ensure that every paper maintains high academic standards.
  • Customized Solutions : iResearchNet understands that each student has unique needs. Hence, they provide tailored solutions that align with your academic level, course requirements, and personal preferences.
  • Flexible Pricing : iResearchNet offers a flexible pricing model that caters to students with varying budget constraints. They aim to provide high-quality services that are affordable for every student.
  • Short Deadlines : Do you need a literature research paper in a hurry? iResearchNet has got you covered with short deadlines up to 3 hours.
  • Timely Delivery : iResearchNet values your time and understands the importance of submitting assignments on time. They ensure that your paper is delivered to you well before the deadline.
  • 24/7 Support : iResearchNet provides round-the-clock support. Whether you have a query or need assistance at any stage of your order, their support team is always available to help.
  • Absolute Privacy : Your privacy is of utmost importance to iResearchNet. They guarantee absolute confidentiality and do not share your personal information with third parties.
  • Easy Order Tracking : iResearchNet’s user-friendly interface allows you to easily track your order’s progress. You can also communicate with the writer handling your paper for updates or clarifications.
  • Money-Back Guarantee : iResearchNet strives for customer satisfaction. If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with the service, we offer a money-back guarantee.

In conclusion, iResearchNet offers comprehensive and reliable writing services for your literature research paper needs. With our expert guidance, you can navigate the path of literary exploration with ease and confidence, knowing that your academic success is our prime concern. Trust iResearchNet to help you explore the depths of literature, synthesizing your insights into a stellar research paper.

Craft Your Outstanding Literature Research Paper with iResearchNet

Are you ready to take the plunge into the deep, enriching waters of literature? Do you yearn to craft an impactful literature research paper that leaves a lasting impression? Look no further, for iResearchNet is here to guide you every step of the way!

At iResearchNet, we truly believe in the transformative power of literature and its capacity to provoke thought, inspire action, and illuminate the human condition. When you choose us, you’re not simply selecting a writing service. You’re opting for a partnership, a collaboration, an intellectual journey in which we’ll be there for you at every bend and turn.

With us, you get more than a written paper. You get a comprehensive exploration of your chosen topic, peppered with original insights and backed by robust research. But more importantly, you get the assurance of high-quality work, timely delivery, and constant support. So, why wait? Let’s embark on this literary adventure together.

The process is quite simple. Just select your preferred topic from the extensive list of literature research paper topics, share your specific requirements and guidelines, and leave the rest to us. Rest assured, your assignment will be in capable, expert hands.

Remember, the perfect literature research paper isn’t merely about presenting information. It’s about crafting a narrative, weaving a tapestry of ideas that resonate with your readers. It’s about taking a deep dive into the world of words and emerging with pearls of wisdom. That’s the kind of experience iResearchNet offers you. So, why settle for anything less?

Let’s elevate your academic journey together. Trust iResearchNet to turn your literary vision into a tangible, impactful reality. Order your custom literature research paper today and unleash your academic potential!

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

assignment topics for english literature

Illustration

  • Essay Guides
  • Essay Topics
  • 450+ Literary Analysis Topics Ideas & Title Examples for Inspiration
  • Speech Topics
  • Basics of Essay Writing
  • Other Essays
  • Main Academic Essays
  • Research Paper Topics
  • Basics of Research Paper Writing
  • Miscellaneous
  • Chicago/ Turabian
  • Data & Statistics
  • Methodology
  • Admission Writing Tips
  • Admission Advice
  • Other Guides
  • Student Life
  • Studying Tips
  • Understanding Plagiarism
  • Academic Writing Tips
  • Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

Illustration

  • Research Paper Guides
  • Formatting Guides
  • Basics of Research Process
  • Admission Guides
  • Dissertation & Thesis Guides

450+ Literary Analysis Topics Ideas & Title Examples for Inspiration

Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Table of contents

Illustration

Use our free Readability checker

Finding that ideal literary analysis topic can be as complex as the literature you're studying. But fear not! Backed by our experience, we’ve gathered some good literary analysis essay topics worth your attention. 

In this blog article, we will tell you how to choose a great title and drop inspirational ideas for your literature analysis. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the best literary analysis topics.

What Are Literary Analysis Topics?

Literary analysis topics are the types of analytical essay topics that deal with examining any work of literature. It might be a novel, a short story, or even literary criticism. You can select any of these topics to write a literary analysis on. 

Topics for literary analysis might focus on various elements of the literature you are supposed to study. For instance, you may explore the following things:

  • Literary devices
  • Structure and style

Essentially, your task is to unleash the hidden meanings and interpret the messages conveyed in the literary works.

>> Learn more: How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay

Features of Good Literary Analysis Topics

Before we move on to the literature essay topics, let’s talk about what makes a title stand out. Good literary analysis topics should:

  • Be related to the literature
  • Provide an opportunity for further exploration of the work as a whole.
  • Raise interesting questions and allow for different interpretations.
  • Inspire readers to think about the topic in more detail.

Choosing the right topic is very important. If you need extra help from experts, rely on our team of academic professionals. Say ‘ do my essay for me ’ and get an authentic essay crafted in line with your needs.

How to Choose a Literary Analysis Topic?

Are you staring at a blank page and don’t even know what literary analysis essay topic to choose? We know that feeling. It can be as challenging as finding a perfect rhyme in a sonnet, but no worries! Below we've got some easy steps to help you select a great literary analysis topic:

  • Read and reflect Start by immersing yourself in the text. As you read, keep an eye on themes, characters, and symbols that catch your attention.
  • Ask questions This is where your inner Sherlock should come out! Question everything about the book. Why does a character behave a certain way? What's the significance of that recurring symbol? These queries are the seeds of your literary analysis.
  • Find connections Look for links in the text – between characters, themes, or even the historical context. These connections often make for a compelling literary analysis essay title example.
  • Keep it focused Remember, you're writing an essay , not a book! So, zoom in. Instead of tackling a broad topic like "Imagery in To Kill a Mockingbird," focus on something more specific, like "The use of bird imagery in To Kill a Mockingbird."
  • Find a new angle If you're choosing a popular book, find a fresh angle. Instead of going with the crowd, create your own path. A unique perspective will make your analysis stand out.

Powered up by these guidelines, you are sure to find an excellent literary analysis essay idea. Now, let’s see what literary analysis titles and writing prompts we have prepared for you.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics List

If you are not sure how to get started, look at the list of essay titles below. Here, we’ve selected top literary essay topics and prompts to kickstart your journey into literature. Let’s begin with some basic themes and literary elements:

  • Symbolism in Emily Dickinson's poetry.
  • Women’s portrayal in Pride and Prejudice.
  • Orwell's use of dystopia in 1984.
  • Time in Slaughterhouse-Five.
  • Death's representation in Edgar Allan Poe’s works.
  • Mystery and suspense in Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series.
  • Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye.
  • Portrayal of masculinity in Hemingway's Old Man and the Sea.
  • Handling of grief in Joan Didion's The Year of Magical Thinking.
  • Solitude in Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude.
  • Role of supernatural elements in Macbeth.
  • American Dream in Fitzgerald's Great Gatsby.
  • Postcolonial themes in Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart.
  • The role of setting in A Tale of Two Cities.
  • Juxtaposition of civilization and savagery in Golding's Lord of the Flies.

Good Literary Analysis Essay Topics

If you're searching for that spark of inspiration, look no further. Choose a title idea from the collection of literary analysis essay prompts we added below:

  • Jane Austen's social satire in Sense and Sensibility.
  • Use of stream-of-consciousness in Virginia Woolf's Mrs Dalloway.
  • Survival in Yann Martel's Life of Pi.
  • Love in Gustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary.
  • Illusion versus reality in Tennessee Williams' A Streetcar Named Desire.
  • Ambition's consequences in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
  • Power in George Orwell's Animal Farm.
  • Role of nature in Jack London's Call of the Wild.
  • Innocence in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • J.D. Salinger's use of first-person narrative in Catcher in the Rye.
  • Conflict of individual versus society in Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451.
  • Isolation in Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis.
  • Friendship in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men.
  • Social class in Charles Dickens' Great Expectations.
  • Gender roles in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women.

Interesting Literary Analysis Topics

Are you looking for something more mind-blowing? Consider these interesting literary analysis essay topics ideas to shake things up a bit:

  • Irony in Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
  • Satire in Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels.
  • Perspective shifts in William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying.
  • Justice in Harper Lee's Go Set a Watchman .
  • Power dynamics in Robert Penn Warren's All the King's Men.
  • Fear in Stephen King's The Shining.
  • Identity crisis in Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar.
  • Spiritual growth in Hermann Hesse's Siddhartha.
  • Betrayal in Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go.
  • Symbolism in Toni Morrison's Beloved.
  • Freedom in Aldous Huxley's Brave New World.
  • Class struggle in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
  • Portrayal of war in Joseph Heller's Catch-22.
  • Obsession in Oscar Wilde's Picture of Dorian Gray .
  • Romanticism in J.M Barrie's Peter Pan.

Unique Literary Analysis Essay Topics

When it comes to a literary analysis paper, standing out from the crowd can make all the difference. If you're looking to bring a touch of uniqueness to your writing, consider one of these these distinctive literary analysis prompts:

  • Magical realism in Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude.
  • Portrayal of rebellion in Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 .
  • Maternal relationships in Amy Tan's The Joy Luck Club.
  • Existentialism in Albert Camus' The Stranger.
  • Deceit in Arthur Miller's The Crucible.
  • Quest for identity in Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man.
  • Treatment of time in Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five.
  • Pride in Sophocles' Antigone.
  • Role of memory in Toni Morrison's Beloved.
  • Perspective and truth in Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner.
  • Portrayal of destiny in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the d'Urbervilles.
  • Madness in Charlotte Perkins Gilman's The Yellow Wallpaper.
  • Courage and survival in Markus Zusak's The Book Thief.
  • Role of society in George Orwell's 1984 .
  • Youth and age in J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye .

Best Literature Essay Topics

Are you ready to take your analysis to the next level? Take a look at these top-notch literary topics for essays, each one carefully crafted for an A+ analysis essay :

  • Challenging societal norms in Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House.
  • Portrayal of love in Pablo Neruda's poetry.
  • Loss and grief in Joan Didion's The Year of Magical Thinking.
  • Paradox in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest.
  • Representation of animals in Jack London's The Call of the Wild.
  • Disillusionment in F. Scott Fitzgerald's Tender is the Night.
  • Trauma and healing in Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns.
  • Use of language in James Joyce's Ulysses.
  • Quest for identity in Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God.
  • Portrayal of family in August Wilson's Fences.
  • Loyalty in Homer's Iliad .
  • Portrayal of survival in Cormac McCarthy's The Road.
  • Duality in Robert Louis Stevenson's Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
  • Isolation in Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot.
  • Influence of society in Jane Austen's Mansfield Park.

Easy Literary Analysis Title Examples

If you are a novice or prefer simple literary analysis essay ideas, this list is for you.

  • Uncovering themes in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • The symbolism in Lord of the Flies.
  • Understanding character development in Great Expectations.
  • Love and relationships in Pride and Prejudice.
  • The role of setting in Wuthering Heights.
  • Morality in Moby Dick.
  • Exploring imagery in The Great Gatsby .
  • Power dynamics in Animal Farm.
  • Social critique in Brave New World.
  • Conflict in Romeo and Juliet .
  • Identity and culture in The Namesake.
  • Supernatural elements in Macbeth .
  • The quest for freedom in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
  • Aging and time in The Old Man and the Sea.
  • Survival in Life of Pi.

Topics for Literary Analysis in Different Genre

Exploring different genres can add a whole new dimension to your literary analysis. Whether it's the captivating world-building of fantasy or the futuristic visions of science fiction, each genre offers a bunch of literary analysis ideas for any taste. Check out the following literary analysis essay topics sorted by genre:

  • Utopian ideals in H.G. Wells' The Time Machine.
  • Symbols and motifs in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.
  • Suspense in Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None.
  • Love in Nicholas Sparks' The Notebook.
  • Representation of war in Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth.
  • Humanity in Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
  • Courage in C.S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
  • Justice in Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series.
  • Conflict in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
  • Time in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series.
  • Portrayal of technology in William Gibson's Neuromancer.
  • Good versus evil in J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
  • Clues in Edgar Allan Poe's The Murders in the Rue Morgue.
  • Portrayal of passion in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.
  • Use of historical detail in Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall.

American Literature Essay Topics

American literature has produced some of the most iconic works in history. Take a glance at these essay topics for American literature analysis essay topics to get motivated:

  • Racial tensions in Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin.
  • Transcendentalism in Walden.
  • Role of women in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Slavery and freedom in Beloved.
  • The meaning of home in Langston Hughes' poetry.
  • Masculinity and honor in Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises.
  • Individualism in On the Road.
  • Illusion versus reality in Death of a Salesman.
  • Navigating adolescence in The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
  • Tragic hero in A Streetcar Named Desire.
  • Consequences of power in The Crucible .
  • Love and loss in The Fault in Our Stars.
  • Identity in Invisible Man.
  • Nature and the self in Leaves of Grass.
  • Religion and faith in The Poisonwood Bible.

English Literature Essay Topics

If you are a British literature enthusiast, don’t skip this list. Below, we have collected the most trending literary analysis title examples in English literature:

  • Class struggle in Dickens' Oliver Twist.
  • Mysticism in Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes.
  • Misogyny in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles.
  • Role of weather in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.
  • Satire of Victorian Era in Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest.
  • Subversion of romance in Jane Austen's Emma.
  • Landscape and memory in Thomas Hardy's Far from the Madding Crowd.
  • War and its effects in Erich Maria Remarque's All Quiet on the Western Front.
  • Power and corruption in George Orwell's Animal Farm.
  • Maturation in Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre .
  • Religious doubt in Graham Greene's The End of the Affair.
  • Time and consciousness in Virginia Woolf's To the Lighthouse.
  • Subconscious in D.H. Lawrence's Sons and Lovers.
  • Rebellion against society in Anthony Burgess' A Clockwork Orange.

Literary Analysis Topics for Students

We've carefully curated literary analysis essay topics suitable for students at different levels of education. From high school to college, there's something for everyone. We've categorized these topics for a literary analysis essay according to academic level to help you find what fits your needs best. Are you ready to dive in? Get prepared to discover literary analysis title ideas that will make your writing process an absolute pleasure.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Middle School Students 

  • Understanding friendship in The Outsiders.
  • Lessons about tolerance in Wonder.
  • Courage and bravery in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
  • The importance of individuality in A Wrinkle in Time.
  • Family and identity in The Giver.
  • The theme of adventure in Treasure Island.
  • Life lessons in Charlotte’s Web.
  • Overcoming obstacles in Bridge to Terabithia.
  • The impact of rumors in The Watsons Go to Birmingham.
  • Symbolism in Tuck Everlasting.
  • The significance of heritage in Esperanza Rising.
  • Power of persistence in Hatchet.
  • Examining the hero's journey in Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief.
  • Struggles with fairness in The Westing Game.
  • The role of honesty in The Secret Garden.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for High School Students

  • Tragic love in Romeo and Juliet.
  • Prejudice and racism in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • The dangers of ambition in Macbeth.
  • The importance of friendship in The Outsiders.
  • Symbolism in The Great Gatsby.
  • Coming of age in The Catcher in the Rye.
  • Man versus nature in Moby Dick.
  • Power and corruption in Animal Farm.
  • Morality in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
  • The impact of war in All Quiet on the Western Front.
  • Human nature in Lord of the Flies.
  • The role of the American dream in Death of a Salesman.
  • Heroism in Beowulf.
  • Innocence and experience in Catch-22.
  • Dystopian society in Fahrenheit 451.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

  • Irony and satire in Pride and Prejudice.
  • Freedom in A Doll's House.
  • Role of madness in Hamlet.
  • Colonialism and its impacts in Heart of Darkness.
  • Alienation and isolation in The Metamorphosis.
  • Tragedy and fate in Oedipus Rex.
  • Exploring human consciousness in Mrs. Dalloway.
  • Modernism in Ulysses.
  • Language and power in 1984.
  • Identity and society in Invisible Man.
  • Existentialism in Waiting for Godot.
  • Feminism and gender roles in The Yellow Wallpaper.
  • Justice and judgment in Crime and Punishment.
  • The influence of society on individuals in A Streetcar Named Desire.
  • Role of memory in Remembrance of Things Past.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics in Poetry

Poetry has a unique way of touching our hearts and minds. Poem analysis can reveal hidden meanings behind the verses. If you're searching for literary analysis essay topics with a focus on poetry, check out some pointers in the sections below.

Romeo and Juliet Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Fate and destiny in Romeo and Juliet.
  • Masculinity and its influence on the characters' actions.
  • The impact of family feuds on individual choices in Romeo and Juliet.
  • Concept of time in Romeo and Juliet.
  • Understanding love at first sight through Romeo and Juliet.
  • The juxtaposition of love and violence in the play.
  • Secret identities and deception in Romeo and Juliet.
  • The influence of peer pressure on the events of Romeo and Juliet.
  • Contrasting views of love: Exploring the perspectives of Romeo, Juliet, and other characters.
  • Dreams and omens in Romeo and Juliet.

Hamlet Literary Analysis Essay Topics Ideas

  • Hamlet's madness: Genuine condition or clever ruse?
  • Revenge and its destructive consequences.
  • Role of women: Analyzing the characters of Gertrude and Ophelia.
  • Appearance versus reality: The dichotomy of disguise and deceit.
  • Hamlet's soliloquies: A window into his psyche and moral dilemmas.
  • The tragic flaw of Hamlet.
  • The ghost of King Hamlet: Its role and significance.
  • Corruption and decay in Hamlet's kingdom.
  • Father-son relationships in Hamlet.
  • Morality and ethical decision-making in Hamlet.

Macbeth Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Supernatural elements in Macbeth.
  • Moral decline of Macbeth throughout the play.
  • Lady Macbeth's role in Macbeth's ambition and actions.
  • Guilt and its consequences in Macbeth.
  • The power of prophecy and its impact on Macbeth's decisions.
  • Role of sleep and sleeplessness in the play.
  • The symbolism of blood in Macbeth.
  • Disorder and chaos in Macbeth.
  • The transformation of Lady Macbeth's character over the course of the play.
  • The portrayal of kingship and tyranny in Macbeth.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics Ideas & Prompts

Still can’t find a topic? Scroll down to spot more fantastic literary analysis writing prompts and ideas, categorized by popular works. Whether you're analyzing character development, theme, or narrative style, you will definitely recognize some good literary analysis topics ideas.

Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Role of nature in shaping the characters of Frankenstein.
  • Dangers of unchecked ambition in Frankenstein.
  • Impact of isolation on Victor Frankenstein and his creature.
  • Women in Frankenstein's world.
  • Creator and creation in Frankenstein.
  • Creature’s desire for companionship.
  • Frankenstein as a critique of enlightenment ideals.
  • Concept of 'otherness' in Frankenstein.
  • Knowledge and ignorance in Frankenstein.
  • Comparing Victor Frankenstein and his creature.

Beowulf Literary Analysis Essay Prompts

  • Christian and pagan elements in Beowulf.
  • Lineage and ancestry in Beowulf.
  • The symbolism of monsters in Beowulf.
  • The representation of kingship in Beowulf.
  • Fame and reputation.
  • Treasure and gift-giving in Beowulf.
  • Loyalty in the world of Beowulf.
  • Good versus evil in Beowulf.
  • Beowulf's three battles: A comparative analysis.

The Great Gatsby Literary Analysis Topics

  • Destructive power of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby.
  • Social classes in The Great Gatsby.
  • Motif of the 'green light' in The Great Gatsby.
  • Illusion versus reality in The Great Gatsby.
  • Time and the past in The Great Gatsby.
  • The role of geography and setting.
  • The portrayal of love and desire.
  • Significance of Gatsby's parties in the novel.
  • Symbolism of the 'Valley of Ashes' in The Great Gatsby.
  • Nick Carraway as an unreliable narrator.

Fahrenheit 451 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Censorship and its impact on society in Fahrenheit 451.
  • Technology in Fahrenheit 451's dystopian society.
  • Symbolism of fire.
  • Motif of mirrors in Fahrenheit 451.
  • Individuality versus conformity in Fahrenheit 451.
  • Portrayal of reading and books in Fahrenheit 451.
  • Mechanical hound and its role.
  • The impact of isolation and disconnection in Fahrenheit 451.
  • Happiness and fulfillment represented in the book.
  • Symbolism of the phoenix in Fahrenheit 451.

Othello Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • The impact of jealousy on the characters of Othello.
  • Race and racism in Othello.
  • Manipulation and its role in this play.
  • Representation of women in Othello.
  • Appearance versus reality in Othello.
  • Reputation and honor in this play.
  • Impact of insecurities on the character of Othello.
  • Role Desdemona's handkerchief plays.
  • Motif of animals in Othello.
  • Friendship and betrayal as represented in this play.

The Catcher In The Rye Literary Analysis Topics

  • How does Salinger represent teen angst in Catcher in the Rye?
  • Role of Phoebe in Holden Caulfield's life.
  • Analysis of Holden's perception of adulthood.
  • Symbolic meaning of the Museum of Natural History.
  • Red hunting hat as a symbol of isolation.
  • Salinger's portrayal of mental illness through Holden.
  • Relevance of the carrousel scene at the end of this novel.
  • Language and narrative style in Catcher in the Rye.
  • Understanding Holden's relationships with other characters.
  • How does this title relate to Holden's personality and actions?

The Crucible Literary Analysis Topics

  • Fear and hysteria as represented in The Crucible.
  • Power dynamics in Salem's society.
  • John Proctor's character development throughout this play.
  • Abigail Williams' motivations.
  • Analysis of Arthur Miller's use of historical events.
  • Symbolism of the witch trials.
  • Religion and how it is represented in The Crucible.
  • Comparing the characters: Elizabeth Proctor vs. Abigail Williams.
  • Suspicion and paranoia in this play.
  • Relevance of The Crucible in today's society.

1984 Literary Essay Topics

  • George Orwell's depiction of totalitarianism.
  • Concept of Newspeak.
  • Surveillance and control in 1984.
  • Winston's rebellion against the Party.
  • Symbolism of the glass paperweight.
  • Analysis of the Party's manipulation of history.
  • Role of Big Brother in this novel.
  • ulia's character and her contrast to Winston.
  • Significance of Room 101.
  • Doublethink and its influence on citizens' mentality.

The Story of an Hour Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Mrs. Mallard's freedom and confinement.
  • Irony in The Story of an Hour.
  • Theme of time in this short story.
  • Heart and it symbolism.
  • Portrayal of marriage in The Story of an Hour.
  • Significance of the open window.
  • Railroad and its role in this story.
  • How does Mrs. Mallard's reaction reflect societal norms?
  • Analysis of Louise's transformation.
  • Representation of life and death.

The Cask of Amontillado Literary Analysis Ideas

  • Revenge in The Cask of Amontillado.
  • Significance of setting in this story.
  • Symbolism of the cask.
  • Montresor as an unreliable narrator.
  • Concept of pride in this story.
  • Foreshadowing in The Cask of Amontillado.
  • Contrast between Montresor and Fortunato.
  • Motif of disguise and deception.
  • Exploring the concept of madness.
  • How does the catacomb setting contribute to the story's tone?

Pride and Prejudice Literary Analysis Prompts

  • First impressions in Pride and Prejudice.
  • Jane Austen's portrayal of marriage and social status.
  • The theme of pride in this novel.
  • Understanding the character of Mr. Darcy.
  • Significance of the title in understanding this novel.
  • Contrasting characters of Elizabeth and Jane.
  • Letters and their role in Pride and Prejudice.
  • Social hierarchy and class in this novel.
  • Theme of family in Pride and Prejudice.
  • Lydia and her impact on the plot.

Kafka’s Metamorphosis Literary Analysis Title Examples

  • Exploring Gregor Samsa's transformation.
  • Kafka’s portrayal of family relationships.
  • Symbolism of the apple in Metamorphosis.
  • How does Kafka depict the human condition?
  • Understanding Grete's role in this story.
  • Kafka's commentary on work and responsibility.
  • Gregor's room as a symbol of his inner state.
  • Role of dehumanization in Metamorphosis.
  • Kafka's style in conveying existentialist themes.
  • Understanding the character of Mr. Samsa.

Topics for Literary Analysis of The Odyssey

  • Role of hospitality in ancient Greek society.
  • Examination of Odysseus as a hero.
  • Vengeance in The Odyssey.
  • Significance of the Underworld.
  • Role of gods and goddesses in the plot.
  • Women characters in The Odyssey.
  • Understanding Telemachus' character arc.
  • Significance of Ithaca in Odysseus’ journey.
  • Analysis of deception.
  • Circe: Character analysis .

The Old Man and the Sea Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Perseverance in Hemingway's novel.
  • Analyzing Santiago's relationship with the sea.
  • Significance of Santiago's dreams about lions.
  • Hemingway's portrayal of friendship and camaraderie.
  • Symbolism of the marlin.
  • The sea and its significance in Santiago's journey.
  • Heroism as depicted in this novel.
  • Role of nature and its depiction.
  • Santiago's hand injury and its symbolic meaning.
  • Defeat and its role in shaping Santiago’s character.

Jane Eyre Literary Analysis Topics

  • Gothic elements in Jane Eyre.
  • Concept of the madwoman in the attic.
  • Religion in Jane's life and development.
  • Portrayal of women's independence in the novel.
  • Significance of Thornfield Hall.
  • Motif of fire and ice in Jane Eyre.
  • Examining the character of Mr. Rochester.
  • Understanding the role of Adele in this novel.
  • Analyzing forgiveness.
  • Jane’s quest for self-identity and belonging.

The Scarlet Letter Literary Topics for Essays

  • Sin and guilt and how they are depicted.
  • Symbolism of the scarlet letter 'A'.
  • Understanding Hester Prynne's character development.
  • Role of Pearl as a symbol.
  • Exploration of hypocrisy.
  • Examination of the Puritan society.
  • Roger Chillingworth as a character.
  • Role of secrets and hidden identities.
  • Significance of the forest and the town.
  • Portrayal of women in The Scarlet Letter.

Of Mice and Men Literary Analysis Essay Ideas

  • Lennie's dream and its impact on this story.
  • How does Steinbeck present George and Lennie's friendship?
  • Decoding symbolism in Of Mice and Men.
  • Loneliness in this novel.
  • Analyzing Steinbeck's portrayal of the American Dream.
  • Unraveling Curley's wife's character.
  • A critical look at attitudes towards women.
  • Analysis of power dynamics in Of Mice and Men.
  • Steinbeck’s depiction of life during the Great Depression.
  • Understanding the tragic end: Was there an alternative?

Lord of the Flies Literary Analysis Titles

  • Loss of innocence in Lord of the Flies.
  • Power struggle: Analyzing leadership styles of Jack and Ralph.
  • Deconstructing the symbol of 'beast' in the novel.
  • Golding’s portrayal of the thin veneer of civilization.
  • Survival instincts in Lord of the Flies.
  • Motif of the conch shell in this novel.
  • Exploring fear and its implications.
  • Golding's view on human nature.
  • A critical look at the novel's ending.
  • Understanding the novel’s allegorical elements.

To Kill a Mockingbird Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Racial injustice in this novel.
  • How does Scout's perspective shape the narrative?
  • Harper Lee's portrayal of small-town life in the South.
  • Moral education in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Understanding Boo Radley's impact on this story.
  • Symbolism in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Analysis of Atticus Finch's parenting style.
  • Class structure in Maycomb County.
  • Gender roles in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Bravery in To Kill a Mockingbird.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics & Title Ideas by Themes

Are you interested in how the good is represented in literature. Or, want to explore the dark side of human nature? No matter what theme you’re analyzing, these literary analysis topics will surely help you get your gears turning.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on Education

  • Exploring education's impact in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Jane Eyre's education and its effects on her life.
  • Learning and wisdom in J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye.
  • Views on education in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
  • Education’s role in the development of Huck Finn.
  • Value of practical knowledge in Moby-Dick.
  • Understanding Malvolio’s wisdom in Twelfth Night.
  • How The Great Gatsby criticizes education in the 1920s.
  • Education as liberation in Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.
  • Women's education in Pride and Prejudice.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on Religion 

  • Understanding religious allegory in Lord of the Flies.
  • Christian symbolism in The Chronicles of Narnia.
  • Religion’s impact on communities in The Poisonwood Bible.
  • Religious imagery in William Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience.
  • Criticism of the church in The Canterbury Tales.
  • Dystopian views of religion in Brave New World.
  • How The Scarlet Letter deals with religion and sin.
  • Portrayal of religious hypocrisy in Huckleberry Finn.
  • Religious aspects in Paradise Lost.
  • Comparing religious symbolism in Moby Dick and Billy Budd.

Literary Analysis Essay Topics on Race

  • Discussing racial prejudices in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Understanding racial disparities in The Color Purple.
  • Representation of race in Othello.
  • Racial discrimination in Nella Larsen's Passing.
  • Concept of race in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
  • Racial dynamics in Go Set a Watchman.
  • Racial identity in The Bluest Eye.
  • Race and identity in Invisible Man.
  • Racial politics in James Baldwin's Go Tell It On The Mountain.
  • Racial tensions in Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun.

War and Peace Literary Analysis Essay Topics

  • Understanding war's impact in All Quiet on the Western Front.
  • Depiction of warfare in War and Peace.
  • Post-war society in The Sun Also Rises.
  • Effects of war on Mrs. Dalloway.
  • Concept of peace in A Separate Peace.
  • Interpreting war in Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls.
  • Post-war life in The Catcher in the Rye.
  • Pacifist messages in Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five.
  • Consequences of war in A Farewell to Arms.
  • Portrayal of war in The Red Badge of Courage.

Literary Analysis Topics on Justice and Judgment

  • Concept of justice in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Justice and injustice in Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations.
  • Judgment in Jane Austen’s Emma.
  • Analyzing justice in George Orwell's 1984.
  • Exploring judgment in Pride and Prejudice.
  • Justice in A Tale of Two Cities.
  • Critique of justice in William Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure.
  • Judgment in Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter.
  • Justice in Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables.
  • Portrayal of justice in The Merchant of Venice.

Literary Analysis Ideas About Good and Evil

  • Good and evil in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
  • Good vs evil in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
  • Struggle between good and evil in Moby-Dick.
  • Dichotomy of good and evil in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Conflict of good and evil in The Lord of the Rings.
  • Good and evil in Golding's Lord of the Flies.
  • Representation of good and evil in Heart of Darkness.
  • Exploration of good and evil in The Picture of Dorian Gray.
  • How Bram Stoker’s Dracula deals with good and evil.
  • Examining the balance of good and evil in Macbeth.

Bottom Line on Literary Analysis Essay Topics

When you're dealing with a literary analysis paper, it can be overwhelming to come up with unique topics. The trick is finding the perfect topic that you will be excited to work with. These literary analysis ideas should help get you started in the right direction. From time-tested classics to more modern works, we focused on different themes so you can pick the one you like.

Remember, in academics, there's always room for some expert advice and help. Why not lean on seasoned professionals to guide your way? Our team at StudyCrumb is here to assist you, providing expert-level guidance for your writing.

Illustration

Our proficient writers can provide a unique, high-quality essay tailored just for you. Don't let the ticking clock stress you out! Buy college essay now and receive an original writing piece that surpasses your expectations.

Daniel_Howard_1_1_2da08f03b5.jpg

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

You may also like

How to Write a Literary Analysis

logo

180 Engaging Literary Research Topics to Focus On

Table of Contents

Are you a literature student worried about what topic to choose for your literary research paper? If yes, then this blog post is for you. We basically know how difficult it is to search and find the right topic for academic writing from a vast subject like literature. Therefore, to make the literary research paper topic selection process easier for you, here, we have compiled a list of the best 150+ literary research topics and ideas.

Go through the entire blog and pick any topic that matches with your interest. Also, before finalizing your topic, check whether it syncs with your university guidelines or not, so that you can compose a detailed research paper deserving of an A+ grade.

Literary Research Topics

List of Top Literary Research Topics

The following are some of the best literary topics that you can consider for writing your research paper.

Interesting Literary Research Topics

  • Evaluate the importance of the Fringes of Literature and Digital Media.
  • New digital media standing large: Discuss the future of electronic literature.
  • The supreme practice of  Literature that Will Make You Smarter.
  • Focus on Winning Either Hearts or Minds by reading a novel.
  • Why does smartphone Sabotages students’ Literary tendencies?
  • The Impact of Social Media on the Apprehension of Learning Behavior.
  • Identify Publishing Industry Challenges & Opportunities In this Era.
  • Literature helps in behavioral and Social-Emotional development.
  • Discuss the value of Children’s Literature for building ethics & values.
  • Why the importance of reading literature is necessary for literacy-building?
  • The importance of digital media in students’ learning and development
  • How does literature help students to develop creative writing ability?
  • Importance of literary works
  • Impact of literature on the Students’ thought process and Perception
  • The Role of Advisors to the Leader then and now: in Oedipus and in modern politics
  • The Truth Teller and the Leader: Speaking Truth to Power in Oedipus and in modern politics
  • The importance of James Fennimore Cooper in improving Nationalism.
  • How to identify and use sarcasm in your literature
  • Why does literature need psychological writing?
  • How can literature contribute to the understanding of the literature?
  • Discuss the introduction to the free writing style in poetry.
  • How does travel writing influence the specific explorer in the age of globalization?

Literary Research Topics

Unique Literary Research Ideas

  • Discuss the American Dream in the Twentieth Century.
  • How does religion play in English literature?
  • Discuss Literature and the Evolution of Religious Discourse.
  • Examine the relationship Between Mythology and Literature.
  • Discuss why Harry Potter books are so influential all around the world.
  • Why is Shakespeare’s story, and poetry still so prevalent in the 21st Century?
  • What Is Literary Fiction?
  • Is Fanfiction has a Logical Form Of Literature?
  • What Is Literary Fiction & What Establish in Literary?
  • What purpose does cliché make for writers and writing?
  • Discuss Byronic Heroes in Nineteenth-Century Women’s Writing.
  • Analysis of William Shakespeare’s Plays -And his Literary Theory.
  • Demarginalizing the Intersection of Race and Sex: Women flourishes literature.
  • An Overview of Feminism in the Victorian Period – Discuss American literature.
  • Discuss the life and works of William Shakespeare.
  • Analyze a critical reflection on the necessity of hope in the Dystopian Times.
  • How is gender momentous while studying literature?
  • Does gender in literature matter?
  • How is myth turned into literature?
  • Discuss the relationship between Theoretical linguistics and artificial languages in Literature.

Captivating Literary Research Paper Topics

  • Discuss “How to Master Stream of Consciousness in Literature?”
  • What We Can Learn From The Work of Literature?
  • Discuss a theme of dualism.
  • British Art and Literature During WWI.
  • Writing the War: The Literary Effects of World War One.
  • Literary Effects of World War II
  • How do literary works develop wisdom in students?
  • Why do students need to study literature?
  • Use of literature in developing sensitivity to life’s values
  • Advantages of literature for students
  • How did the literary works of William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens influence students?
  • How literature helps learners to develop critical thinking skills?
  • Why Uncle Tom’s Cabin(1852) by Harriet Beecher Stowe is considered one of the greatest American novels?
  • How American literature differs from British literature?
  • Discuss the social perception of the contemporary American literature
  • How are the roles of men and women portrayed in the novel?
  • Comparisons between genres. How does each genre tell its story?
  • The role of women in Early American literature.
  • History and culture of American literature.
  • The colonial period of America- Significant historical characters.

Read more: Literary Techniques | Improve Your Writing Skills to Gain Good Grades

William Shakespeare Literary Research Topics

  • Do you think that Shakespeare believed in inequality?
  • Fate and Free Will in Shakespeare’s Drama. – DISCUSS
  • How can make a book a classic piece of literature?
  • Difference Between Love and Lust. – It’s defined in Literary.
  • What are the efforts in writing a review of related literature?
  • Significant about William Shakespeare’s writing
  • What are the greatest works of William Shakespeare?
  • We know what we are, but know not what we may be – Discuss
  • Life lessons to learn from Macbeth?
  • Influence of William Shakespeare and his literary works on world literature
  • Moral Lessons from Julius Caesar
  • Why does William Shakespeare consider the greatest dramatist of all time?

Excellent Literary Research Topics

  • How to Identify and Use Sarcasm in your literature?
  • Classic works of literature still have a place in today’s culture.
  • Why does Literature Need Psychological writing?
  • Can Psychology and Literature as Inter-Dependent Domains?
  • Using Literature to Confront the Social Stigma.- Discuss.
  • How does literature reflect social issues?
  • How Can Literature Contribute to an Understanding of Literature?
  • The First Measured Century: Timeline after 1900.
  • “The reception of Alfred Tennyson in Europe”- Influence on European culture and literature.
  • Children’s Literature in Iconic Poster.-Discuss.
  • Discuss the Introduction to Free Writing style in Poetry.
  • How Does Travel Writing Influence the Explorer in the Age of Globalization?
  • Discuss postcolonial travel writing in the Twentieth Century.
  • Literary tricksters in American literature.
  • Figuring Madness in Nineteenth-Century Fiction. Discuss.
  • How can you differentiate Between Irony, Sarcasm, and Satire in literature?
  • How does the Midwestern literary culture influence others?
  • Identify the Difference Between English Literature and American Literature.
  • Why You Should Read Literature From Around The World?
  • Periods of American Literature influence the cultural and religious development of the country. – Discuss.
  • Literature and Domination of European Culture all over the world.
  • How democratic culture brought feminism beyond the motion of equality.
  • Flourishing Japanese literature in the Shōwa period. – Discuss.
  • Significance of Asian literary works?
  • Revolution in world literature
  • What is Third-World literature?
  • Relation between nationalism and literature
  • The popularity of Harry Potter among the youngsters
  • Influence of literature on male chauvinism.
  • How British Literature Portrays elements of romanticism

British Literary Research Topics

  • Character Analysis Of Lady Macbeth By William Shakespeare.- Illustrate.
  • The Influences of Greek and Roman mythology on Western literature.
  • Understanding Beowulf: Oral Verse influenced many authors to write.
  • How significant was the medieval period to compose literature?
  • Shadow of Ancient Rome in the Modern World.- Discuss.
  • Literature as a Social Tool & influence of British literature.
  • The influence of popular culture on the social identity of young writers.
  • Works of literature – Medieval period- The Literature & Liberty.

Ancient American Literature Research Topics

  • Discuss The life, contribution, and works of Herman Melville in American Literature.
  • What Writing Style Is “Civil Disobedience?”
  • Is Thoreau’s writing style formal or informal?
  • Nathaniel Hawthorne – American Literature. His contribution to short story writing and romance novelist.
  • Discuss the contribution of Ralph Waldo Emerson on American poetry.
  • How was James Fenimore Cooper’s contribution to American literature?
  • American literature – Literary and social sagacities.
  • The Involvement of American Women Writers and Readers.
  • Understand The Liberal Arts and Influence of Women’s Literature.
  • history of American literature and culture of the first world war.
  • How great war revive American Literature and Culture?
  • How did World History influence American Literature?
  • Influence of the American Revolution on American Literature
  • Contribution of American Writers on the literature culture of Ancient America
  • How was American literature influenced by Science, Arts, and Fiction?

Awesome Literary Research Topics

  • How can you define Latino Literature and social influence? |
  • How Children’s literature is essential to promote students’ mental development.
  • Why Do Kids more prone to illusional story Books?
  • George Orwell and the Use of Literature as Propaganda.- Discuss.
  • Story influence! The impact of children’s literature.
  • When carrying the Idea of a “Grim Reaper” how come from?
  • How is death portrayed in literature?
  • The Ethical Value of Narrative timeframe on literature.
  • Ethics of Representation within Literature.- discuss.
  • What do we learn from “Latino” literature in a period of the Nineteenth Century?
  • What do we learn from American and British literature?
  • Impact of literature on children’s mental and ethical development
  • How do literary works contribute to the development of a child’s life?
  • Difference between American Literature and English Literature

Outstanding Literature Research Paper Topics

  • How do psychologists use literature?
  • How significant is humor in children’s literature?
  • The Wonderful Adventures of Nils- How much enjoyment do children feel in their textbooks?
  • The influence of funny stories in kid’s books.
  • Discuss- anthropomorphism In children’s Literature.
  • Why are there so many Animals character in Children’s Literature?
  • The Story that Tempts American Poetry.
  • Social Construction and Racial Identities relate to literature.
  • Poet Clint Smith quotas his wisdom in “Place matters”.
  • Discuss the oldest famous children’s story enjoyed by children periods.
  • 18th Century and the emergence of English literature.
  • Why Is History Important And How Can It help us to narrate literature?
  • Past Importance and Present Necessitate in Literary History as Storytelling.
  • Evaluate Literature and Science in the Nineteenth Century.
  • Define interdisciplinary study of archaeology and English literature.
  • In what sentience is Mrs. Dalloway a modern ‘psychological’ storyteller?
  • Cognitive and Social skills are developed from story readings.
  • Evaluate the essence of a philosophical approach to the Psychological Novel.
  • What is the moral story of King Arthur?
  • Evaluate the role of children’s literature play in developing to understand disabilities.

Top Literary Research Ideas

  • Why do we need a new philosophy of literature in the 21st century?
  • Why is the relation between Philosophy and Literature of Significance for the Doctrine of Education?
  • Things to Learn from the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
  • What message George Orwell has conveyed through his novel ‘Nineteen Eighty-Four’?
  • How one can develop verbal and non-verbal communication skills from literary works?
  • Discuss how can literary works help improve mental and emotional health and well-being
  • Develop a detailed analysis of the seven tragedies of Ancient Greece
  • The Plague of Thebes: Punishing the city to punish the King – Discuss how it operates in Oedipus and perhaps in the Bible or in citizens’ lives today
  • Misogyny in Organized Religion – using a poem of your choice, analyze how religion has or has not contributed to women’s oppression over the centuries
  • Analyze the concept of the wandering uterus that originated in ancient Greek medicine and persisted into the 19th century
  • Explore the Mexican Legend of La Llorona and what it says about the public perception of women and marriage
  • How does the metaphor of the bonsai tree work to explain how patriarchal society has historically treated women?
  • Explore the typical life and story of the American wives of late 1800

Impressive Literary Research Topics

  • Write about classic and contemporary literary criticism.
  • Analyze how male or female authors are represented by classic literary works.
  • Explain the importance of technology within cyberpunk genres.
  • Examine the themes of love and loss in romantic poetry.
  • Explain the role of magic and fantasy in modern literary works.
  • Analyze the use of horror genres in contemporary fiction.
  • Explain the role of magic and fantasy in children’s literature.
  • Analyze how religion is portrayed in romantic poetry.
  • Discuss the relationship between gender and power in Shakespeare’s plays.
  • Explain how poverty is represented in Victorian novels.

Out of the 150+ different literary research topics suggested in this blog, choose any topic that is convenient for you to analyze and write about. In case, you are unsure what topic to choose for your literary research paper or if you are confused about how to write a detailed literary thesis, then reach out to us immediately.

assignment topics for english literature

Related Post

Spell for Students and Adults

110 Hard Words to Spell for Students and Adults

Avoid Passive Voice

Learn How to Avoid Passive Voice in 3 Simple Steps

Greek Mythology Essay Topic

117 Best Greek Mythology Essay Topics For Students

About author.

' src=

Jacob Smith

I am an Academic Writer and have affection to share my knowledge through posts’. I do not feel tiredness while research and analyzing the things. Sometime, I write down hundred of research topics as per the students requirements. I want to share solution oriented content to the students.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

  • Featured Posts

140 Unique Geology Research Topics to Focus On

200+ outstanding world history topics and ideas 2023, 190 excellent ap research topics and ideas, 150+ trending group discussion topics and ideas, 170 funny speech topics to blow the minds of audience, who invented exams learn the history of examination, how to focus on reading 15 effective tips for better concentration, what is a rhetorical analysis essay and how to write it, primary school teacher in australia- eligibility, job role, career options, and salary, 4 steps to build a flawless business letter format, get help instantly.

Raise Your Grades with Assignment Help Pro

Book Your Assignment Now and get 15% Off Only Valid For May   Contact US

  • Google Meet
  • Mobile Dialer

assignment topics for english literature

Resent Search

image

Management Assignment Writing

image

Technical Assignment Writing

image

Finance Assignment Writing

image

Medical Nursing Writing

image

Resume Writing

image

Civil engineering writing

image

Mathematics and Statistics Projects

image

CV Writing Service

image

Essay Writing Service

image

Online Dissertation Help

image

Thesis Writing Help

image

RESEARCH PAPER WRITING SERVICE

image

Case Study Writing Service

image

Electrical Engineering Assignment Help

image

IT Assignment Help

image

Mechanical Engineering Assignment Help

image

Homework Writing Help

image

Science Assignment Writing

image

Arts Architecture Assignment Help

image

Chemical Engineering Assignment Help

image

Computer Network Assignment Help

image

Arts Assignment Help

image

Coursework Writing Help

image

Custom Paper Writing Services

image

Personal Statement Writing

image

Biotechnology Assignment Help

image

C Programming Assignment Help

image

MBA Assignment Help

image

English Essay Writing

image

MATLAB Assignment Help

image

Narrative Writing Help

image

Report Writing Help

image

Get Top Quality Assignment Assistance

image

Online Exam Help

image

Macroeconomics Homework Help

image

Change Management Assignment Help

image

Operation management Assignment Help

image

Strategy Assignment Help

image

Human Resource Management Assignment Help

image

Psychology Assignment Writing Help

image

Algebra Homework Help

image

Best Assignment Writing Tips

image

Statistics Homework Help

image

CDR Writing Services

image

TAFE Assignment Help

image

Auditing Assignment Help

image

Literature Essay Help

image

Online University Assignment Writing

image

Economics Assignment Help

image

Programming Language Assignment Help

image

Political Science Assignment Help

image

Marketing Assignment Help

image

Project Management Assignment Help

image

Geography Assignment Help

image

Do My Assignment For Me

image

Business Ethics Assignment Help

image

Pricing Strategy Assignment Help

image

The Best Taxation Assignment Help

image

Finance Planning Assignment Help

image

Solve My Accounting Paper Online

image

Market Analysis Assignment

image

4p Marketing Assignment Help

image

Corporate Strategy Assignment Help

image

Project Risk Management Assignment Help

image

Environmental Law Assignment Help

image

History Assignment Help

image

Geometry Assignment Help

image

Physics Assignment Help

image

Clinical Reasoning Cycle

image

Forex Assignment Help

image

Python Assignment Help

image

Behavioural Finance Assignment Help

image

PHP Assignment Help

image

Social Science Assignment Help

image

Capital Budgeting Assignment Help

image

Trigonometry Assignment Help

image

Java Programming Assignment Help

image

Corporate Finance Planning Help

image

Sports Science Assignment Help

image

Accounting For Financial Statements Assignment Help

image

Robotics Assignment Help

image

Cost Accounting Assignment Help

image

Business Accounting Assignment Help

image

Activity Based Accounting Assignment Help

image

Econometrics Assignment Help

image

Managerial Accounting Assignment Help

image

R Studio Assignment Help

image

Cookery Assignment Help

image

Solidworks assignment Help

image

UML Diagram Assignment Help

image

Data Flow Diagram Assignment Help

image

Employment Law Assignment Help

image

Calculus Assignment Help

image

Arithmetic Assignment Help

image

Write My Assignment

image

Business Intelligence Assignment Help

image

Database Assignment Help

image

Fluid Mechanics Assignment Help

image

Web Design Assignment Help

image

Student Assignment Help

image

Online CPM Homework Help

image

Chemistry Assignment Help

image

Biology Assignment Help

image

Corporate Governance Law Assignment Help

image

Auto CAD Assignment Help

image

Public Relations Assignment Help

image

Bioinformatics Assignment Help

image

Engineering Assignment Help

image

Computer Science Assignment Help

image

C++ Programming Assignment Help

image

Aerospace Engineering Assignment Help

image

Agroecology Assignment Help

image

Finance Assignment Help

image

Conflict Management Assignment Help

image

Paleontology Assignment Help

image

Commercial Law Assignment Help

image

Criminal Law Assignment Help

image

Anthropology Assignment Help

image

Biochemistry Assignment Help

image

Get the best cheap assignment Help

image

Online Pharmacology Course Help

image

Urgent Assignment Help

image

Paying For Assignment Help

image

HND Assignment Help

image

Legitimate Essay Writing Help

image

Best Online Proofreading Services

image

Need Help With Your Academic Assignment

image

Assignment Writing Help In Canada

image

Assignment Writing Help In UAE

image

Online Assignment Writing Help in the USA

image

Assignment Writing Help In Australia

image

Assignment Writing Help In the UK

image

Scholarship Essay Writing Help

image

University of Huddersfield Assignment Help

image

Ph.D. Assignment Writing Help

image

Law Assignment Writing Help

image

Website Design and Development Assignment Help

image

University of Greenwich Assignment Assistance in the UK

assignment topics for english literature

190 Research Topics in English Literature

Are you searching for the most suitable topic for your literary research paper or thinking about the best topic for your Literary research article? You're in the right spot. The toughest part of doing research is deciding on the right subject. When you've found an ideal topic, you're in good shape.

We have an abundance of highly-rated expert writers who are able to write professional and well-written papers. As college students, We understand the fact that paying for high-priced papers can be a hassle, which is why we offer low rates for top-quality writing. We can provide you with the top assistance in the form of research papers that will help you earn the highest grades. Explore this selection of subjects to discover the perfect match for your needs.

Literature Research Topics

Finding the perfect literature research paper topic could take up a lot of your time. In this section, you'll find some of the most popular Literature research topic ideas.

  • Examine what you think of as the American dream in Literature.
  • What is the relationship between Literature and religion? Are related?
  • Examine the "stream of conscious" literary style.
  • Study the use of artificial languages in literary works.
  • How does mythology get its name in Literature?
  • Does it make sense for the writing to be gendered?
  • Examine the difference between dystopian and utopian Literature.
  • Examine Shakespeare's work. Shakespeare.
  • How do you evaluate feminist Literature? Does it have a foundation?
  • Assess the impact of Shakespeare's work. Of Shakespeare.
  • Can fan fiction be considered an autonomous part of Literature?
  • How can cliches be used to enhance the world of Literature?
  • What is the role of Byronic characters in the Literature described?
  • Discuss the benefits and disadvantages of reading Literature.
  • The work of Literature during WWI
  • Examine the depiction of peace and war by George Orwell.

Interesting Literature Topics

Do you realise how many intriguing literary topics there are? They cover the evolution of Literature and its growth of it to the present day. Finding topics to write about in a literary research paper is difficult, So here are a few other options.

  • How do you define humour and sarcasm in Literature?
  • What can Literature be described as a tool for propaganda?
  • Talk about the madness of Literature.
  • The impact of literary characters who play pranks on readers.
  • Examine travel writing in the 20th century.
  • Examine the characteristics of poetry and storytelling after 1900.
  • What has changed in the city's lifestyle since 1900?
  • Examine the role of Literature in contemporary culture.
  • What are the social issues that are discussed in literary works?
  • The relationship between psychology and Literature.
  • A significant influence from European culture on Midwest literature.
  • The Literature of different countries is diverse of different nations.
  • The influence of European culture on contemporary Literature.
  • The influence of feminism on contemporary culture.
  • Analyze Japanese Literature during the 20th century.

Literature Topics for a Research Paper

In this section, you'll find many literary topics that you could utilize to research. A well-written research essay will aid you in achieving top grades.

  • What do you think of as the production of culture by Latina writers?
  • Examine the depiction of Ethics in literary works.
  • Examine your thoughts on the American dream in the Literature.
  • Review the famous writings by Ernest Hemingway.
  • Examine the literary languages that were invented.
  • What makes "Harry Potter" so wildly popular?
  • What is the representation of Death depicted in the form of a character in literary works?
  • The effect of reading on children.
  • Does there exist a gender-neutral representation in literary works?
  • Examine the Victorian Literature of the Victorian period.
  • Define the whole writings by William Shakespeare.
  • Examine whether fanfiction is independent literary.
  • What literary figures do you consider to be Byronic?
  • Irony is a way to express emotion in Literature.
  • What can Literature do as a tool for propaganda?

Literature Research Paper Topics

In this section of research paper topics, you can connect one event to another. They also draw inspiration from the most famous novels. When considering literary research topics, be aware of your understanding and your interest in the subject.

  • The connection between Literature and psychology.
  • What is the process of constructing the social identity of a person?
  • What can you say about settlement nationhood and nature through North American poetry?
  • Why is it that place is important to poets?
  • Examine travel writing from the 20th and 21st centuries.
  • The role of animals in the Literature for children.
  • Examine the role of humour in children's books.
  • Discuss the best children's fiction dating back to 1900.
  • How does the young adult literature depict disabilities?
  • How do you read to five-year-olds to help them develop friendships and their imagination?
  • Review the contemporary novel and the psychology.
  • Define the inter-disciplinary boundaries of archaeology and English Literature.
  • Examine the novel of the 19th century and science.
  • Examine the importance of History in interpreting modern Literature.
  • How important is philosophy to Literature?

English Literature Research Paper Topics

When it comes to English Literature, the focus is on the way in which classics, novels or books are composed to describe a specific phenomenon. Here are some literary topics to begin with:

  • Assess the methods of teaching English Literature.
  • Explore the latest Indian literary works with English translations.
  • Examine women's writing as well as the review of English Literature.
  • Examine the influence of the Bible on English Literature. Bible upon English literature.
  • Examine the influence of the Classics on Literature.
  • Define the role of English Literature in educating people.
  • Define the influence of Darwin on Literature.
  • Explain medieval English Literature.
  • Study Women Studies and Feminism in India.
  • Review the brief background of Norton Anthology of the English language.
  • Review your understanding of the English Renaissance study.
  • Investigate medieval feminism in middle English Studies.
  • Examine women's roles within Indian English Literature.
  • Examine feminism and contemporary Indian Literature.
  • Examine the development of English in North America.

Topics in Literature

Literature requires complete concentration in order to get to the core of a specific phenomenon.

  • Discussion of the play by Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet, which is based on Male Melodrama.
  • How has black lives matter influenced Literature written by black writers?
  • Examine the current refuge literature.
  • Examine postcolonialism along with climate change in the Literature.
  • Explore modernity and tradition by using the lens of Tagore Gora.
  • Examine the relationship between post-independence as well as pre-independence Indian writing.
  • The importance of the role of African Literature in responding to racism.
  • The research on homosexuality.
  • The importance of Literature in the present day.
  • The growth of feminists in the 20th century.
  • The impact of fairy tales on perceptions in the contemporary era.
  • Correlation between post-independence and pre-independence Indian Literature.
  • Talk about the novel "To Kill A Mockingbird in 1960".
  • The importance of Shakespeare in the realm of Literature.
  • How did the art of writing novels begin?
  • Analyzing the character from Emy as well as Rebecca from Vanity Fair.
  • The depiction of Vampires in 19th and 21st-century Literature.

Research Topics in English Literature

Within this category, you will find the subjects of comparison to research. They are based on well-known novels and also books written in English.

  • Study the range of Chaucer's literary genres that are featured in his stories of Canterbury.
  • The authenticity of historical books when it comes to documenting historical events.
  • What is the significance of women changed in the twentieth century of the world of Literature?
  • What impact did Milton's dream disappearance influence the writing that was published in 17th-century England?
  • What inspired James Joyce and William Burroughs to create their works?
  • What are our thoughts about our current perspective on 19th-century novels and the general population and similar views the first time they appeared?
  • Examine the work of less well-known writers.
  • Discover why adults find Lord of the Rings appealing.
  • What does the work of Maya Angelou play a role in the African responses to the issue of racism in the world of Literature?
  • Consciousness is frequently referred to as "unconsciousness" in modern literature.
  • Examine the representations found in the literary works that are based on Hindu as well as Buddhist beliefs in Modern Literature.
  • Abortion is depicted in a variety of ways as a subject in British Literature.
  • Poetry that is based on the faith of style and fashion in Hopkins.
  • Explore the development of Literature in the 20th century.
  • Define the nature of writing in the chemical landscape.

Literature Topics for Research Papers

They can be among the top sought-after subjects for literature research. They don't require much effort to write a well-written research paper.

  • The role of gender in the contemporary literary world.
  • Important to incorporate animals in children's books.
  • Examining the conflict that began in the first world war.
  • The accuracy and precision of History as written in novels dealing with historical incidents?
  • The differences in the Literature that comes from America in comparison to Great Britain. The US in the United States and Great Britain.
  • Explore the poetic imagination of the 19th century.
  • Explore the imaginative images of the 19th century, which were inspired by the scientific study of Astronomy.
  • What are the possible applications of quantum physics in Literature?
  • What is your most memorable piece of work written by William Shakespeare?
  • The masculine female in more recent English Literature.
  • The difference between modernism and realists.
  • Analyzing the key elements in First World War poetry.
  • The study of the significance of fairy tales in literary works.
  • The impact of Literature in the Renaissance period.
  • An investigation of the historical roots of the Literature of children's books.

Literary Topics for a Research Paper

Literary topics can be diverse. This makes it challenging to select the most appropriate subject for your research paper.

  • Discuss the most important work written by Shakespeare.
  • Determine the gender-based representation in the genre.
  • Impact of the language on social media on children.
  • The hardships of an African woman.
  • Language activities are utilized to teach and learn processes of the English Language.
  • Study the role played by women in nation-building and the impact their work has in the field of Literature.
  • Folklore is a crucial aspect in the classroom of Literature.
  • Drama as well as poetry within the realm of Literature.
  • Factors that influence the selection of an appropriate language in an internationalized world.
  • Study of morphological shifts in English.
  • The study of Achebe, "Things are falling apart".
  • Proverbs make up a large portion of the literary world.
  • The impact of political influence on the creation of textual texts in Literature.
  • Study of the literary language.
  • The study of threats is a topic in Literature.

Research Topics in Literature

The subjects of the research have their roots in a range of elements that impact society and the entire world. They also study people's emotions and behaviour in various situations.

  • English Nativization within African literary texts
  • An examination of the Asian theatre and its influence on modern Literature.
  • Leadership studies are part of the Literature.
  • Literature's importance in the world.
  • Why is it necessary to read books?
  • Examine the development of Literature, starting from the beginning until the present.
  • Learn about the methods used to develop styles in the Literature.
  • Which feminist critiques have you seen of particular Feminist works?
  • The importance of the genre fiction in the literature field.
  • The importance of narration as well as emotion in the creation novel in the realm of Literature.
  • Examine how conflict is portrayed in literary fiction.
  • What are the consequences of the impact of the different languages on the development of an entire nation?
  • Learn about the importance of music and revolution.
  • The impact of language on the growth of the nation.
  • What is the mode of communication in writing?

Literature Paper Topics

Here are some of the most requested themes for your literature essays which you can use to do your own research. If you are able to narrow down your research topic to the correct topic and find the relevant details are easy.

  • The difference between linguistics theorists and theories of grammar.
  • Tenses and tenses pose problems in the Literature.
  • The analysis of the word's development in the Literature.
  • Poetry is an integral element of Literature.
  • The development and growth of modern Literature.
  • The happiness of individuals and societal standards are discussed in Victorian writing.
  • The structure of the sentences of English Literature.
  • Can the spoken language of an individual impact the person's decision to choose another language?
  • A look at the challenges that arise from studying the language of a different.
  • The evidence for non-standard usage of English among University Students.
  • The significance of rituals, dances and music in the world of Literature.
  • Poetic language and the impact of poetry on language.
  • What could Literature possibly be presented as means to change the social order?
  • The syntactic problems that arise from English usage.
  • The influence of society's influence on the performance of students writing.

Literature Research Paper Topics for College Students

Do you have a child in college looking for the ideal research paper on Literature? Here are some ideas to think about!

  • Discuss your understanding of the concept of censorship within American Literature.
  • Study the African-American writer women and the American writers and study their impact on the world.
  • Architectural imagery in the twentieth century. African American Literature.
  • What is the fate of characters after they are stale in the literary world?
  • The different ways of communicating through the written word.
  • Dialogue is an aspect of American Sign Language in Literature.
  • What is the manner in which dialects and Death are represented in Literature?
  • What are the ways that Literature portrays American culture?
  • What is the method by which self-verification might be found throughout African American Literature?
  • Generational divisions and their impact on modern Literature.
  • The creation of excellence is based on tradition.
  • Explore the current literary world.
  • What is masculinity? in the realm of Literature?
  • The effect of the effects on American writing from World War I on American Literature.
  • Important African American Literature addresses the black experience.

Literature Review Topics Examples

Do you have the ability to conduct an analysis of the Literature in various fields? Check out these subjects and test your knowledge of them subject.

  • An overview of the studies on rationality and the rational.
  • A study of the Literature on the development of dependence and dependence.
  • A review of the Literature regarding the scarcity of resources in our current world.
  • A brief review of the Literature that concerns pop culture.
  • An overview of the Literature on Feminist global relationships.
  • A review of the Literature on the complexity of organizations and their policies.
  • A brief review of the Literature on censorship as well as television shows.
  • An overview of the research on global climate change and its impact on humankind.
  • A review of the Literature about the reasons behind why children's books are so well-known.
  • An analysis of the Literature regarding how writers decide on how they write.
  • Artificial language is utilized in Literature.
  • How education affects Literature per era.
  • The most formidable villains of Literature.
  • What are the factors that make Shakespeare a major influencer on modern authors?
  • The Literature and the propaganda of the present.

Frequently asked questions

What are some good english research topics , what are the research topics in literature .

  • What roles are women and men depicted in throughout the book? Are they distinct?
  • How do different genres tell their own story?
  • Who is "the author," and what is their backstory?
  • What are the issues in politics this novel attempts to address? Discrimination? Rights? Equality?
  • What is the significance of this novel in terms of religion? What beliefs is it advocating or rebutting?

Which topic is best for PhD in English literature ?

  • Examine what you think of as the American dream in the literature.
  • How do literature and religion have a relationship?
  • Examine your thoughts on the "stream of consciousness" style of literature.
  • How does mythology get its name in literary works?

What are the best literature research topics in 2023 ?

  • What can you say about the literary genres of sarcasm and irony?
  • What can literature be described as a means of propagandizing?
  • Examine the literary madness.
  • The influence of characters who are tricksters in the world of literature.

What is research in English literature ?

Which is the hardest subject for phd , what is the best literature topic for students in research .

  • What do you think of as the cultural output of Latina writers?
  • Examine the depiction of Ethics in the literature.
  • Review the famed writings by Ernest Hemingway.
  • Explore the languages of literature that have been invented.

How do you choose a thesis for English literature ?

How do i find new research topics .

Methods for Identifying New Research Topics

  • Seek out colleagues from a variety of disciplines.
  • Take part in related workshops.
  • Reading to learn about new topics and modern technologies.
  • Determine a broad area of interest or ideas you already have.

What is a good literature research title ?

  • Examine the teaching methods used to teach English literature.
  • Examine contemporary Indian writing with English translation.
  • Review women's writers and the study of English literature.
  • Study the impact of the Bible on English literature. Bible upon English literature.
  • Assess the influence of Classics on literature.

What is research problem in English literature ?

What is basic research in english , what are the types of research in english language .

Students can conduct research in language studies using four different research methodologies:

i) Experimental research,

ii) quasi or pre-experimental research,

iii) ethnography, and

iv) case study.

What is a good thesis for a literature review ?

What is research paper in literature .

assignment topics for english literature

Top 10 Best Universities Ranking list in India 2022

Generic Conventions: Assignment Help

Generic Conventions: Assignment Help Services

Research Paper Topics For Medical | AHECounselling

Research Paper Topics For Medical

Top 5 Resources for Writing Excellent Academic Assignmentsb

Top 5 Resources for Writing Excellent Academic Assignments

How to Write a Literature Review for Academic Purposes

How to Write a Literature Review for Academic Purposes

assignment topics for english literature

Tips for Writing a killer introduction to your assignment

How To Write A Compelling Conclusion For Your University Assignment

How To Write A Compelling Conclusion For Your University Assignment

Social Science, research ideas

Research Papers Topics For Social Science

Best 150 New Research Paper Ideas For Students

Best 150 New Research Paper Ideas For Students

7 Best Plagiarism Checkers for Students And Teachers in 2024

7 Best Plagiarism Checkers for Students And Teachers in 2024

Enquiry form.

Trending Post : 12 Powerful Discussion Strategies to Engage Students

Reading and Writing Haven

10 of the Best Literary Analysis Activities to Elevate Thinking

Inside this Post: Ready to elevate your literary analysis lessons? This post is full of engaging and effective activities to help students master literary analysis topics.

Literary analysis has become the beating heart of English classes around the world. When students read a text, we want them to peel back the layers one by one, appreciating the deeper meaning that lies within each sentence. As English teachers, many of us connect with texts easily and persevere through complex literature naturally. For our students, this process is not always as enjoyable.

In this post, you’ll find suggestions for elevating thinking with middle and high school students. These ideas can be used with paired or individual texts and can be differentiated to reach a variety of learners.

Engaging and Effective Literary Analysis Activities

Literary analysis elements are best when they are engaging and elevate thinking without frustrating students. I’ve played around with different approaches, and these are the key elements that resonate most with students.

Model literary analysis for middle and high school students with think alouds #MiddleSchoolELA #HighSchoolELA #LiteraryAnalysis

1. Thinking Aloud

One of the best feelings as a teacher is knowing you have an entire class full of teenagers engaged. It’s amazing how every single student in a classroom is in tune with think alouds. Something about making thinking transparent challenges students of all readiness levels. With literary analysis lessons, I love providing think alouds with the whole class. Whether we do this via face to face instruction or by creating a short video for virtual classrooms, we have to model our thinking.

Here’s an example with “All the world’s a stage” from William Shakespeare’s As You Like It …

This speech, at first, seems complicated. But, Shakespeare is talking about the world being a stage, and I think there is something deeper to what he is saying. Let’s go back again and look for clues. The men and women are players on the stage. He writes that they have their exits and entrances. I’m trying to visualize that in my head now. The world is a stage, the people are actors, and when they walk on and off the stage, that is their theatrical entrance and exit. Now that I understand he is using this speech as an extended metaphor, I wonder why would Shakespeare is choosing to compare these two things?

When modeling literary analysis, we can break down our thought process. If we write a written response, we can scaffold by color coding our thoughts in order to highlight the necessary critical thinking steps.

  • First, acknowledge what is confusing or uncertain about the text. What might we be missing as readers?
  • Second, make observations.
  • Third, apply reading strategies (in this case, I used visualizing).
  • Last, teach students to ask questions that probe at the deeper meaning and reason for the writing.

2. Graphic Organizers

Graphic organizers are one of my go-to strategies for elevating thinking . We can use them to differentiate and to guide students as we work in small groups. I like to keep a variety of literary analysis graphic organizers for any text on hand so that I can be responsive. If students show a need to work on analyzing a specific literary element – characterization, plot, theme, conflict, etcetera – I use a graphic organizer as we read a text or excerpt together, modeling my thinking. Then, students can practice using the same organizer in small groups, partners, or independently.

Literary analysis consists of asking a bunch of questions to lead students to deeper thinking, and graphic organizers are a bridge that walks students down that path of purposeful questioning.

Grab this print and digital literary analysis graphic organizer for analyzing song lyrics – one of secondary students’ favorite texts to pick apart!

Nothing grabs a student’s attention like an image! Visuals are amazing tools for introducing literary analysis skills. I always begin my literary analysis unit with pictures. Using an image, we can quickly show students how to differentiate between summarizing and analyzing . Then, we can walk them through the steps of acknowledging what we might be missing, making observations, applying reading strategies, and questioning for deeper meaning.

Consider using images from a variety of sources. We can try historical images, political cartoons, famous paintings, graphic novels, wordless picture books, advertisements, or even just regular photographs.

I even work this type of analytical thinking into my vocabulary activities ! Students get used to interpreting photos and using textual evidence to support their thinking.

Use one pagers as an engaging way to analyze literature #OnePagers #LiteraryAnalysis #MiddleSchoolELA

4. One Pagers

One pagers are one of my favorite literary analysis activities. In order to make them meaningful, I incorporate scaffolding . So, students have access to standards-aligned goals and questions that prompt their responses to the text. Choice helps as well. We can allow students to choose digital or traditional , response angles, and even texts.

In terms of literary analysis benefits, we can really focus on asking students to cite textual evidence to track a universal theme. While doing so, students can draw conclusions about how literary elements work together or how they provide tension to impact a reader’s overall takeaway.

5. Colorful Charts

Mood and tone can be tricky for students to analyze. So that they can understand the difference between them but also so that they see how mood and tone work in tandem, I began using an equalizer metaphor . Students can use color and amplification to analyze how mood and tone change throughout a literary work. By creating a visual representation, there’s a direct connection between the mood and the storyline.

How does setting impact mood , and how does mood impact the conflict in the story?

For instance, the quiet beauty of the Capulet garden sets the stage for a romantic balcony scene, but the noisy bustle of the lewd fighting in the Verona streets helps to define the conflict and tension between the two feuding families.

With tone , how does the author’s word choice and sentence structure in each section convey his or her attitude in the work?

As we study the amplification of tone in the play Romeo and Juliet , we see a consistent change from light-hearted comedy to an intensely poetic and tragic seriousness. Over the course of the play, one might say that Shakespeare’s juxtaposition creates an overall sympathetic tone toward the star-crossed lovers.

Movement in ELA; sticky note activity for literary analysis #LiteraryAnalysis #MovementinClassroom #SecondaryELA

6. Get Moving

One of the issues when it comes to citing evidence in a literary analysis essay is finding relevant support. Sometimes, it seems like the lines students select from literature are completely disconnected from what they are writing. That may be because they don’t truly understand how their thesis connects to their main points or how their main points connect to the evidence. For some students, there are too many degrees of separation!

A kinesthetic option to address this issue involves Post-Its (or colored text boxes if you are doing this digitally) and a t-chart. At the top of the paper (use big paper or a white board if you can do this together in the classroom!), write the analytical point. What conclusion can students draw about characters, setting, or another literary element that would support their thesis statement?

Under that, label the T-Chart as “Relevant” and “Off Topic.” Then, you have some options.

BASIC: You identify support for students in advance and have them sort the support based on its relevance. Could they use it to analyze the text, or is it off topic?

ADVANCE: Ask students to find examples of relevant and off-topic lines from the text.

A MIXTURE:   Provide students with a handful of lines they can sort into relevant and off-topic categories, and then ask them to find a couple more examples on their own.

To increase the engagement factor, use some washi tape on the floor in the shape of whatever makes the most sense – a character outline for analyzing character, a house for analyzing setting, a circle for analyzing a universal theme. Then, have students stick their Post-It notes inside or outside of the shape. Inside indicates that the evidence is relevant, and outside means it’s off-topic.

7. Children’s Books

We don’t always think to use picture books with older students , but they are one of my absolute favorite ways to scaffold literary analysis! Because picture books are short, we can cover an entire (and often complex) story in a short period of time. And, we can continually refer back to that text throughout the school year. Because picture books are accessible for all students, they will remember sharing the story together, and you can really make significant strides with whole-class discussions and small group lessons.

Try using picture books to teach Notice and Note signposts, language, aesthetics, and theme . One of my favorite ways to use picture books is teaching students to analyze how dialogue impacts decisions, propels action, and develops characters. For example, in the book Elbow Grease , the protagonist is motivated to participate in a race for which he is the underdog simply because some crass comments from his friends make him angry. This really is the turning point in the story, which makes it convenient to analyze how dialogue can lead to decisions and actions that change the course of a storyline.

8. Short Films

For a thousand and one reasons, I adore short films. They’re short (obvious, I know), which makes them ideal for modeling and mini lessons. Plus, they are visually captivating and apply to a wide age range. And, generally, they hold quite a bit of depth and leave room for a variety of interpretations.

During first quarter with ninth graders, I built in a yearly routine of watching short films during our literary analysis unit and having students complete their first full analytical essay. It’s fun. I can model using a short film I enjoy. Then, I get to read a wide range of responses from students who choose different texts. To scaffold for struggling writers, I suggest a few short films I am very familiar with; this way, I can guide them if they get stuck or confused.

You can also build in short films by using them with poetry for paired text analysis .

Reading strategy activities for middle and high school ELA #ReadingStrategies #LiteraryAnalysis

9. Reading Strategies

One of the building blocks of literary analysis is having a good foundation in apply reading strategies. It’s fun to model what readers do. We can show students how analyzing texts and re-reading for deeper meaning helps us with writing and then ask students to practice those skills.

For instance, when students begin to understand that authors have a purposeful craft that impacts their reading experience, it empowers them to pick that craft apart, studying the nuances of what makes it work. And, it gives them an advantage as authors themselves. They may think,  I remember how the author’s purposeful use of short, staccato sentences and onomatopoeias increased the suspense during that scene. Maybe I should use those techniques in this part of my story to add an emotional element for my readers.

These are some of the graphic organizers I’ve used to scaffold reading strategy work with the whole class, and then students can transfer those skills to small group or independent practice, using the same organizer if necessary.

10. Social Media Activities

Social media is everywhere. We might as well use it as a relevant option for analyzing literature! One of my favorites is booksnaps , and I tie in Snapchat by having them take a photo of part of the text they want to analyze. Then, they add interpretations, images, and text as well as a caption with a more detailed analysis. I call these Snap-a-Books.  I also created a Spot-a-Book analysis option, reminiscent of Spotify playlists. Students can create playlists relevant to character analysis, setting analysis, conflict analysis, and more!

And, that’s ten! I hope you’ve found some meaningful literary analysis activities to spark creative, critical thinking in your classroom.

Engaging and effective literary analysis lessons and activities for middle and high school ELA #LiteraryAnalysis #MiddleSchoolELA #HighSchoolELA

Get the latest in your inbox!

50 Dissertation Topic Ideas in English Literature

50 Dissertation Topic Ideas in English Literature

Young people who strive to obtain a master's degree face a need to write a dissertation in their chosen major. It's considered the most important paper they need to deliver during their academic career. Besides, it represents a wonderful chance to demonstrate advanced writing and analytical skills, critical thinking, and knowledge they've gained during the curriculum. Furthermore, such an assignment provides an opportunity to affect an academic environment positively and pamper your ego a bit. So, if you want to graduate with an outstanding result, you should do your best to deliver a high-grade-worthy paper. Your way to success will start with examining potentially suitable dissertation topic ideas, so it is not worth underestimating its importance. Therefore, we'll go deep down this question to make sure you have something to think about when it comes to working on your paper..

How to Work on Research Topics in English Literature

The very name of its assignment suggests that you will not do without proper research, so you should make enough room in your schedule for this stage. You will have to present a report about your findings and discuss the results provided. Bear in mind that writing a dissertation involves a completely different level of responsibility, diligence, and work than similar assignments you got in the past. It stands out from other academic papers with its complexity since it requires more reading, studying, and writing as well.

If you are new to this type of work, it is worth searching for guidelines on the internet, examining decent ready-made papers, and doing background research to understand what theme is more suitable for you. Allocate enough time to look through all thesis topics in English literature that seem appealing to you. It is a complex and multifaceted field of study, so you will hardly do everything properly if you proceed to write when the deadline is already around the corner. The best thing you can do is to choose a theme from your current field of interest. Thus, you will have enough motivation and inspiration to stay on track with research and writing. Pay attention to the following moments:

  • Your dissertation should be based on high-quality research, so you can show your understanding of the subject you work on.
  • You should demonstrate your analytical skills, choosing only relevant literature on your theme.
  • You should develop a research question and address it in your paper, ensuring your dissertation possesses a clear focus.

Research Proposal Ideas

You will have to write a dissertation proposal and present it to your professor or committee to ensure it is suitable and up to date. Don't postpone this task for too long since time is your biggest enemy when it comes to working on such an assignment. Your research process will spin around literary texts, so you will hardly do without visiting a library. A note-taking process is crucial for developing decent ideas and the research process itself. If you don't know what categories it would be interesting to try, pay attention to the following options:

  • cultural diversity;
  • translated texts;
  • genre studies;
  • historical development;
  • cinematography and literature.

How to Choose a Dissertation Topic in English Literature

If your professor hasn't provided you with a specific theme, it is up to you to decide what you want to write about. Your field of interest should become the main benchmark in picking up the right topic. Reflect on the books or literature aspects that you liked most of all while studying. The research process involves a lot of routine tasks, and if you are not interested in the subject, it will be much harder to stay focused. It is one of the reasons why experts suggest doing background research to ensure that you will not face issues with finding enough trustworthy information to back up your ideas. You can examine some critical literature to determine the most valuable perspectives to take as well as the gaps that you can potentially address in your dissertation. It will not be superfluous to create a well-crafted outline, so you have the required points in front of your eyes.

If you have selected a topic but are not sure about the exact title for your paper, you can come up with several working options. They may have a bit different focus but stay within one theme. In this case, you should keep both of them in mind when doing your research. Thus, it will be easy to make the right final choice. Even though there is no strict rule on how many primary texts a student must include in their dissertation, utilize at least two of them to make your arguments look more powerful. It is worth considering the cultural, historical, and theoretical background of a text to make sure it's reasonable and manageable for such a paper. Finally, you should develop a proper research question since it will guide the research and writing process. Keep it in mind all the time, so your paper can provide robust evidence of its significance.

Literature Topics for a Research Paper

Everyone who proceeds to work on a dissertation has tremendous experience under the belt in writing different papers. Thus, they know that choosing a broad theme is a road to nowhere since it's hard to devote enough attention to all key aspects and preserve the focus. It's worth resorting to special techniques aimed at helping you to narrow down the theme. Most of them suggest free writing within the subject, so you can define which one sounds the best. If you cannot opt for a theme, consider the following options:

  • Correlation between English literature of the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • How did the Renaissance affect English literature?
  • Key differences between English literature in the USA and the UK.
  • Fundamental writing methods of female writers of the 18th century.
  • What are the most popular writers in the detective genre nowadays?
  • What was the most important work of Jane Austen?
  • Impact of the digital revolution on English literature.
  • In-depth analysis of poetry from the Second World War.
  • Feminism's growth in twentieth-century literature.
  • Peculiarities of post-colonialism literature.
  • Female heroes in English Literature.
  • Correlation between famous Shakespeare's sonnets.
  • Gender roles in classic English literature.
  • Medieval traditions depicted in Geoffrey Chaucer's works.
  • Ambiguous issues presented in Thomas More's Utopia.
  • Development of suspense in famous English literary works.
  • John Donne: A comparison of sermons and metaphysical love poems. 
  • Impact of Jane Austen's novels on modern women.
  • Key differences between books and film adaptations of Joanne Rowling's Harry Potter.
  • How Elizabeth Gaskell depicted society and family in her works.
  • The most famous feminist works and their influence on modern society.
  • Peculiarities and depth of Thomas Hardy's poems 1913.
  • Religious doubts depicted by George Eliot.
  • Main inspiration sources of Shakespeare.
  • Peculiarities of rustic writing in the nineteenth century.
  • Role of costumes in Dickens's famous works.
  • Correlation between sex and violence in modern English literature.
  • How politics affected English literature in the nineteenth century.
  • The special role of water in Virginia Woolf's works.
  • Gender stereotyping and patriarchy in The Chronicles of Narnia.
  • Correlation between modernism and postmodernism.
  • The negative influence of postmodernism on the novel.
  • Travel writing in the twenty-first century.
  • The crucial role of philosophy in English literature of the twentieth century.
  • Depiction of architecture in Thomas Hardy's works.
  • The effect Milton's Paradise Lost had on seventeenth-century literature.
  • How science affected nineteenth-century novels.
  • Development of modern literature with the help of high technologies.
  • Psychological tools used in writing modern novels.
  • Self-searching with the help of literature works.
  • Poststructuralist views of language in contemporary poetry.
  • Popular literature genres among representatives of Z generation.
  • Why did Joanne Rowling choose a male alias for working in a detective genre?
  • Can a graphic novel be considered a literature work?
  • Most successful film adaptations of the last decade.
  • The accuracy of history presented in historical novels.
  • An analysis of homosexuality in modern English literature.
  • Influence of LGBT movement on the development of modern English literature.
  • The key appealing features of Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.
  • Could literature do well without Shakespeare?

How to Structure Your Literature Dissertation

When you decide on the most appealing dissertation topic in English literature, you can proceed to create the first draft of an outline. The latter will help you keep in mind all the crucial moments you should consider when writing your paper. In addition, most professors pay special attention to the structure of dissertations provided by students, so if you want to get the highest grade for your paper, don't forget to involve the following things:

  • title page;
  • acknowledgments;
  • declaration;
  • list of contents;
  • introduction: you should present background information, project value, main research purposes and objectives, and the research question;
  • literature review : presentation of relevant theories and analysis of literary works within the chosen theme to address the research question;
  • methodology: presentation of data and analysis methods and tools utilized;
  • findings and analysis: presentation of the crucial research results in detail with the help of visual tools like charts, tables, graphs, etc.;
  • discussion and conclusion: presentation of personal interpretation of findings, demonstration of the connection between the results and arguments taken from the literature, highlighting of the research significance, and summarizing of the whole research, recommendations on the further development of the theme;
  • references;
  • bibliography;
  • appendices: presentation of some additional pieces of information, graphs, diagrams utilized to complete your paper that stay beyond its body paragraphs. The main aim of this part is to broaden some data and provide additional explanations.

In fact, your professor should specify all the requirements for your dissertation, but if they have skipped some moments, it is better to clarify everything that stays unclear to you beforehand. Don't leave such things unattended since the final grade will affect only your academic performance and further career development.

Kennesaw State University

  • Writing Center
  • Current Students
  • Online Only Students
  • Faculty & Staff
  • Parents & Family
  • Alumni & Friends
  • Community & Business
  • Student Life
  • Video Introduction
  • Become a Writing Assistant
  • All Writers
  • Graduate Students
  • ELL Students
  • Campus and Community
  • Testimonials
  • Encouraging Writing Center Use
  • Incentives and Requirements
  • Open Educational Resources
  • How We Help
  • Get to Know Us
  • Conversation Partners Program
  • Workshop Series
  • Professors Talk Writing
  • Computer Lab
  • Starting a Writing Center
  • A Note to Instructors
  • Annotated Bibliography
  • Literature Review
  • Research Proposal
  • Argument Essay
  • Rhetorical Analysis

Literature Review Assignment

facebook

Note to instructors: This literature review assignment may be used as part of an ongoing research project, or it may be used as a stand-alone project. You are encouraged to adopt, adapt, or remix these guidelines to suit your goals for your class.

Rough Draft:

Peer Review:

Final Draft:

This assignment will help you become aware of how writers and researchers consider previous work on a topic before they begin additional research. 

  • Locate a variety of scholarly print and digital sources that represent multiple perspectives on a topic.
  • Analyze sources by critically reading, annotating, engaging, comparing, and drawing implications.
  • Methods of gathering and determining the credibility of sources
  • Strategies for identifying and discussing multiple perspectives in research

A literature review provides context and establishes the need for new research. In your literature review, you will summarize and analyze published research on your topic by identifying strengths, weaknesses, commonalities, and disagreements among your sources.

For this assignment, you will conduct research on your topic and then compose a thoughtful, well-organized literature review that reflects your own analysis of at least five scholarly sources and their contributions to your topic. (Note that a literature review differs from an annotated bibliography, which simply lists sources and summaries one-by-one. A literature review also differs from a research paper because it does not include new arguments or unpublished primary research.)

Your literature review should have three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

Introduction

In the introduction, identify your research topic and provide appropriate background information to clarify the context in which you will be reviewing the sources. You should also identify commonalities, conflicts, and/or gaps in published research. Finally, you should explain the criteria you’ve used to analyze, compare, and contrast sources.

In the body, discuss your sources. Organize your discussion of sources based on a common characteristic such as authors’ purposes, findings, or conclusions; research methodologies; or chronology. Briefly summarize each source and describe the strengths and weaknesses of each source. Identify and analyze each source’s contribution to the topic and address differing viewpoints. Integrate source information effectively using lead-in phrases and citations. 

In the conclusion, discuss the ways your sources have contributed to greater knowledge and understanding of the topic and address shortcomings in the existing research. Answer the following questions: What has your review of the sources revealed or demonstrated about the topic? What new questions that have been raised? What areas need further study? 

Formatting requirements

Follow MLA format. Use black Calibri or Times New Roman font in size 12. Double-space the entire document. Use 1-inch margins on all sides.

Criteria for success

General criteria:.

  • The writing is clear and coherent/makes sense. 
  • The tone and language are appropriate for the audience.
  • The writing adheres to grammar and punctuation rules.
  • All sources are cited properly, both within the literature review and on the Works Cited page. 

In the introduction, you should . . .

  • Identify the general topic or issue you have researched.
  • Provide appropriate background information to clarify the context in which you will be reviewing sources. 
  • Identify overall trends conflicts, and/or gaps in research and scholarship; and/or identify a single problem or new perspective. 
  • Explain the criteria you’ve used to analyze, compare, and contrast sources.
  • When necessary, state why certain sources are, or are not, included. 

In the body, you should . . .

  • Include at least five scholarly sources.
  • Organize discussion of sources logically according to a common characteristic (E.g.: authors’ purposes, findings, or conclusions; research methodologies; or chronology)
  • Briefly summarize individual sources.
  • Describe strengths of each source.
  • Describe weaknesses of each source.
  • Identify and analyze each source’s contribution to the topic. 
  • Address differing viewpoints.
  • Integrate source information effectively using lead-in phrases and citations.

In the conclusion, you should . . .

  • Discuss the ways your sources have contributed to greater knowledge and understanding of the topic.
  • Address shortcomings in the existing research. 
  • Note new information or understanding the literature review has revealed about the topic. 
  • Note new questions that have been raised.
  • Note areas where further study is needed.

The literature review should adhere to all formatting criteria:

  • Follow MLA format throughout the literature review and on the Works Cited page.
  • The entire document should be double-spaced. 
  • The font should be Calibri or Times New Roman in size 12.
  • The margins should be one inch on all sides.

logo

This material was developed by the COMPSS team and is licensed under a  Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License . All materials created by the COMPSS team are free to use and can be adopted, adapted, and/or shared as long as the materials are attributed. Please keep this information on materials you adopt, adapt, and/or share. 

Contact Info

Kennesaw Campus 1000 Chastain Road Kennesaw, GA 30144

Marietta Campus 1100 South Marietta Pkwy Marietta, GA 30060

Campus Maps

Phone 470-KSU-INFO (470-578-4636)

kennesaw.edu/info

Media Resources

Resources For

Related Links

  • Financial Aid
  • Degrees, Majors & Programs
  • Job Opportunities
  • Campus Security
  • Global Education
  • Sustainability
  • Accessibility

470-KSU-INFO (470-578-4636)

© 2024 Kennesaw State University. All Rights Reserved.

  • Privacy Statement
  • Accreditation
  • Emergency Information
  • Report a Concern
  • Open Records
  • Human Trafficking Notice

Walking by the Way

the road to inspired learning

40 Fantastic Literature Fair Project Ideas

March 4, 2019 by ami Leave a Comment

assignment topics for english literature

This past year we participated in a literature fair for homeschool students in our county. It was a wonderful night of learning and inspiration; students are already choosing their books for next spring!

Simon chose The Hobbit , and he couldn’t wait to talk to people about his book.

assignment topics for english literature

Since my Geography Fair Project Ideas post has been helpful to my readers, I decided to create this Literature Fair Project Ideas post, too.

These literature fair project ideas are divided into setting, characters, plot, author, and other ideas. If you don’t know where to start, encourage your student to choose one idea from each section.

Draw a map of the setting.

Paint a picture of the setting.

Build a model of the main character’s home (you could even use LEGO bricks). This would be a blast for a book like Swiss Family Robinson !

assignment topics for english literature

Make a salt dough map based on the setting of the story.

Print a map of the setting and add it to your display.

assignment topics for english literature

Create a map for the story and label the main character’s journey .

Complete a country lapbook (if the story is set in a certain country).

If your story has a historical setting, research the time period and add historical facts and artifacts to your display.

assignment topics for english literature

Create character trading cards .

Draw the main characters and add them to your display board or make a booklet.

Make copies of character images from the book and color the characters for your display.

assignment topics for english literature

Sculpt the characters out of clay.

If your book includes animal characters, display stuffed animals to represent the characters in the book.

Dress in costume as one of the main characters.

assignment topics for english literature

Create a PowerPoint presentation that includes the main characters.

If your book has related characters, add a family tree to your display.

Use props to help a character come to life.

assignment topics for english literature

Construct a diorama based on a favorite scene in the story.

assignment topics for english literature

Sketch or paint your favorite scene from the story.

Design a plot diagram   and add it to your display.

Create a simple game based on your book’s plot (or another aspect of your book) and let guests play.

assignment topics for english literature

Generate a video (like a movie trailer) for the book, and play it for guests to view.

Make a stop motion video based on the plot, and play it for guests to view.

Research the author and write a biographical paragraph about his or her life.

assignment topics for english literature

Design a PowerPoint presentation about the author and add it to your display.

Create a short movie about the author’s life and play it (on a laptop) for guests.

Highlight the  author’s other famous works and include them as part of your display.

Publish a timeline showing when the author was born, when your book was published, and what other famous world events were happening at the same time.

Other Literature Fair Display Ideas

Serve food that is relevant to the story and offer it to the guests at the fair.

assignment topics for english literature

Design a bookmark . Make copies to hand-out at the fair.

Make a Best Quotes booklet using the great quotes from the story.

Many books include symbolism. Display various symbolic props with brief explanations.

Display other important objects from the story (a sword, pocket watch, umbrella, instrument, etc.). Could you craft the item?

assignment topics for english literature

Use a triarama to help display setting, a scene, characters, or animals mentioned in the story.

Research plants or animals included in your book and add interesting information to your display.

Create a short trivia quiz for fair guests to complete (make sure to have pencils handy!).

Construct an electric quiz board with questions and answers based on your book.

Encourage questions . Put an object in your display and add a note such as: “Ask me why this is here!” or “Ask me how this works!”

Offer prizes for correct answers to random trivia questions.

assignment topics for english literature

What interests and talents do you have? Do you sew, knit, paint? Do you like carpentry, pottery, or music? How can you include your talents with your display ?

assignment topics for english literature

Design a scrapbook based on your story.

Don’t forget to display your book !

assignment topics for english literature

If you have additional literature fair project ideas, please leave a comment, and I will get your ideas added to the list.

Happy Reading!

assignment topics for english literature

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

OWL logo

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Online Writing Lab at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

A Message From the Assistant Director of Content Development 

The Purdue OWL® is committed to supporting  students, instructors, and writers by offering a wide range of resources that are developed and revised with them in mind. To do this, the OWL team is always exploring possibilties for a better design, allowing accessibility and user experience to guide our process. As the OWL undergoes some changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions by email at any time.

Please don't hesitate to contact us via our contact page  if you have any questions or comments.

All the best,

Social Media

Facebook twitter.

Quick links

  • Make a Gift
  • Directories

UW Press celebrates Shawn Wong's Aiiieeeee! and a 50-year legacy of Asian American Literature

Aiiieeeee

The UW Alumni Magazine, Viewpoint , published an article about the 50th anniversary of Shawn Wong's anthology, Aiiieeeee! along with 50 years of UW Press publishing Asian American writing, mentioning many English Deptment graduates who published books as well. To read the article click here: Finding the Words: UW Press Celebrates "Aiiieeeee!" and a 50 year legacy of Asian American Literature .

  •   Facebook
  •   Instagram
  •   Twitter
  •   Newsletter

IMAGES

  1. 🐈 Literature review topics. 221 Literary Research Paper Topics To

    assignment topics for english literature

  2. 😱 Literature review assignment example. Literature review assignment

    assignment topics for english literature

  3. 100+ Topics for Your Perfect English Literature Paper

    assignment topics for english literature

  4. AP English Literature Summer Assignment

    assignment topics for english literature

  5. Essay Topics For Grade 5

    assignment topics for english literature

  6. English Assignment Topics to Consider for Writing Well

    assignment topics for english literature

VIDEO

  1. ICSE English Literature 2024: Most Important Stories & Poems for Board Exam

  2. Important Essay Topics

  3. Literature Review tutorial part 1.mp4

  4. English Subject #8 Descriptive Text

  5. 10 Marketing Assignment Topics For Creating a Stellar Essay

  6. Popular Assignment Topics on Tourism and Hospitality Management

COMMENTS

  1. English Literature Research Paper Topics

    This guide, centered on English literature research paper topics, serves as a comprehensive resource for students seeking to delve deep into the diverse epochs, authors, and themes that have shaped English literary tradition.Navigating the intricate tapestry of English literature offers scholars a multitude of avenues for exploration.

  2. 220 Best Literary Analysis Essay Topics for Students

    Literary Analysis Essay Topics for the Subject of Race. "Waiting for the Barbarians" by J.M. Coetzee. Race and Injustice in Harper Lee's To Kill A Mockingbird. Race and fellowship in Melville's Moby Dick. "Under The Feet Of Jesus". Description of culture and tradition in "Girl" by Jamaica Kincaid.

  3. 100+ Excellent 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.

  4. 120 Literary Essay Topics

    Students may be assigned a literary analysis essay when taking an English, literature, or writing class. This essay aims to analyze a particular work or body of work within the context of literature. Students giving this type of writing assignment often find that while they can understand the texts being studied, they have difficulty putting …

  5. 250 Literature Research Paper Topic: Literary Ideas for You

    Here is a list of English literature research paper topics for your perfect essay! Gender representation during medieval English literature. Colonialism's effects on British literary works during the 18th century. Influence of British writers on modern literature. The role of nature in 18th-century British novels.

  6. Research Topics in English Literature

    Ideas for Writing English Papers. Research topics on English literature initially start off broad and then narrow down and you come up with your thesis. Using any of the research topics listed (gender, comparisons, historical background, politics, and religion) can take you almost anywhere. Choose your general topic based on the literature ...

  7. 435 Literary Analysis Essay Topics and Prompts [2024 Upd]

    Mark Twain is one of the greatest American writers and satirists. But his masterpiece The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn delved into themes that would make some of the most serious literary analysis essay topics, such as the theme of freedom vs. slavery. The theme of prejudice in To Kill a Mockingbird.

  8. 100 Best Literature Research Topics- Fresh Perspectives on Literature

    Gothic literature's influence on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Imperialism in Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. Symbolism in William Golding's Lord of the Flies. Nature's Role in William Wordsworth's Poetry. Social Class in George Eliot's Middlemarch. Supernatural Elements in Bram Stoker's Dracula.

  9. Literature Research Paper Topics

    In a literature research paper, one can delve into numerous facets of this intricate art form, leading to an extensive range of topics for exploration. Literature comes in various forms, including novels, short stories, plays, and poems. Each of these forms has unique characteristics, providing ample research paper topics.

  10. 450+ Literary Analysis Essay Topics & Prompt Ideas in 2023

    English Literature Essay Topics. If you are a British literature enthusiast, don't skip this list. Below, we have collected the most trending literary analysis title examples in English literature: Class struggle in Dickens' Oliver Twist. Mysticism in Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes. Misogyny in Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles.

  11. 180 Engaging Literary Research Topics to Focus On

    Impressive Literary Research Topics. Write about classic and contemporary literary criticism. Analyze how male or female authors are represented by classic literary works. Explain the importance of technology within cyberpunk genres. Examine the themes of love and loss in romantic poetry.

  12. 190+ Research Topics in English Literature

    Research Topics in English Literature. Within this category, you will find the subjects of comparison to research. They are based on well-known novels and also books written in English. Study the range of Chaucer's literary genres that are featured in his stories of Canterbury.

  13. 10 of the Best Literary Analysis Activities to Elevate Thinking

    2. Graphic Organizers. Graphic organizers are one of my go-to strategies for elevating thinking. We can use them to differentiate and to guide students as we work in small groups. I like to keep a variety of literary analysis graphic organizers for any text on hand so that I can be responsive.

  14. Romantic Literature Essay Topics and Thesis Ideas

    Romantic novels you might be familiar with are Frankenstein (Mary Shelley), Ivanhoe (Sir Walter Scott), Nightmare Abbey (Thomas Love Peacock), and Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, both by Jane Austen. If you've been assigned to write an essay pertaining to English romanticism, I'm offering you some romantic literature essay topics ...

  15. AP English Literature and Composition

    Topics may include: Interpreting the role of character in fiction. Identifying and interpreting setting. Understanding how a story's structure affects interpretations. Understanding and interpreting a narrator's perspective. Reading texts literally and figuratively. The basics of literary analysis.

  16. 50 Dissertation Topic Ideas in English Literature

    Your dissertation should be based on high-quality research, so you can show your understanding of the subject you work on. You should demonstrate your analytical skills, choosing only relevant literature on your theme. You should develop a research question and address it in your paper, ensuring your dissertation possesses a clear focus.

  17. Introduction to Literature Assignments

    Length of assignment: 250-350 words. Assignment: Select a poem from the list below. Read it several times to determine the "voice" or "speaker" of the poem. Write a 250-350 journal in which you explain how the poet intentionally creates a distinct speaker or voice in the poem, separate from that of the poet.

  18. Literature Review Assignment

    Purpose. This assignment will help you become aware of how writers and researchers consider previous work on a topic before they begin additional research. Locate a variety of scholarly print and digital sources that represent multiple perspectives on a topic. Analyze sources by critically reading, annotating, engaging, comparing, and drawing ...

  19. English 101

    English 101 - Assignment 1: Setting in English Literature. Instructor Svitlana Kostenko. Cite this lesson. If you have a Study.com College Saver membership and are seeking college credit for this ...

  20. 7 Most Popular English Literature Dissertation Topics You Need to Know

    3. Research. This is one of the best part that a student conduct while choosing the dissertation topics in english literature. During the time of researching your topic you need to be ensure that you are choosing the right subject or field for you in order to write the long piece of academic work. 4.

  21. 40 Fantastic Literature Fair Project Ideas

    Setting. Draw a map of the setting. Paint a picture of the setting. Build a model of the main character's home (you could even use LEGO bricks). This would be a blast for a book like Swiss Family Robinson! Log Cabin Model Home for Laura Ingalls Wilder Display. Make a salt dough map based on the setting of the story.

  22. English Assignment Topics to Consider for Writing Well

    We have presented the best topics for English assignment writing on literature: The heritage of William Shakespeare and his take on time and love. The tragic portrayal of poverty in the writing of Charles Dickens. The Biblical motives in the writing of C.S. Lewis.

  23. Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

    Mission. The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives.

  24. UW Press celebrates Shawn Wong's

    The UW Alumni Magazine, Viewpoint, published an article about the 50th anniversary of Shawn Wong's anthology, Aiiieeeee! along with 50 years of UW Press publishing Asian American writing, mentioning many English Deptment graduates who published books as well. To read the article click here: Finding the Words: UW Press Celebrates "Aiiieeeee!"and a 50 year legacy of Asian American Literature.