american literature topics for research paper

mcgowanbooks.com

Best books for academic research.

mcgowanbooks.com

50 American Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas

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

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

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

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

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

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

american literature topics for research paper

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

  • 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

Illustration

  • Research Paper Guides
  • Research Paper Topics

Literature Research Paper Topics: 250 Top Ideas

  • Speech Topics
  • Basics of Essay Writing
  • Essay Topics
  • Other Essays
  • Main Academic Essays
  • 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

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

Literary_Research_Paper_Topics

Table of contents

Illustration

Use our free Readability checker

Are you looking for an engaging literary research paper topic? Whether you're writing a college-level essay or a master's thesis, the right literature research paper topics can make all the difference. They range from exploring particular genres or authors to examining the use of language in literary works. By researching these topics, you will gain a greater understanding of the ideas, improve your critical thinking skills, and learn to appreciate the nuances. This article will explore such literature topics for research and open up endless possibilities for analysis and interpretation, ranging from classic to modern-day texts. Are you ready to choose a trending topic and write a paper that will win your professor’s heart? 

What Are Literary Research Paper Topics?

Literary research paper topics focus on a particular literary work, such as a book, poem, novel, play, or story. They provide a great starting point for researching the specific aspect you're planning to explore for a better perception of the idea and help to eliminate any artificial facet. Literary research topics may analyze a single text, compare different writings by the same author, or contrast different authors' styles.  Common literature topics for research papers comprise symbolism, characterization, themes, plot structure, historical context, point-of-view analysis, biographical contexts, and intertextual connections. These research paper topics may also focus on how an author has been interpreted or evaluated over time, analyzing the critical reception of their works and examining any changes within literary canonization. Additionally, these topics can explore how literary works intersect with other disciplines, such as philosophy, psychology, sociology, politics, or economics.

Characteristics of Good Literature Research Paper Topics

Literary research paper topics are usually considered good when they are:

  • Relevant They should be engaging, thought-provoking, and appropriate to the academic work.
  • Specific Similarly, good literature research topics must have a narrow focus and not be overly broad.
  • Interesting They should pique your interest and encourage you to explore and aspire to know more about the literary work.
  • Challenging Deep analysis, thoughtful reflection, and creative thinking are also vital.
  • Unique They should be memorable and offer new insights into academic work.

With these important characteristics of literary topics for research papers in mind, you're ready to start writing!

How to Choose a Literature Research Paper Topic?

Choosing a literature research paper topic can be daunting, but with careful thought and planning, you're sure to find the perfect one. In order to do this, you need to complete the following:

  • Brainstorm: First, start by brainstorming topics that interest you. Think about the works you've been studying, authors and genres you enjoy reading, and themes that have resonated with you.
  • Narrow it down: Once you've identified a few research topics that intrigue you, narrow them down to one that is most relevant and specific.
  • Research: Explore if it is relevant. This will guarantee that you have enough material to work with.
  • Refine: Once you have researched, refine your topic to ensure it is specific and engaging. Consider the most interesting aspects and how they can be explored further.
  • Choose: Finally, choose the title that best reflects your interests and passions for an enjoyable research experience!

With these tips, you can find the perfect literary research paper topic! Don’t have time for reading piles of books? Get professional help with research paper writing from StudyCrumb and have your study completed by a real pro.

List of Literature Research Paper Topics

A list of literature topics for research offers a wide range of literary-related issues that can be explored and studied for your project. It includes ideas that could spark your creativity and help you choose the best title. Whether you're interested in exploring the works of Shakespeare or examining modern literature, this list of literary research paper topics has something for everyone!

  • Use of symbolism in romantic poetry.
  • Importance of technology within cyberpunk genres.
  • Impact of fantasy on contemporary culture.
  • Representation of male or female authors as represented by classic literary works.
  • Postmodernist views of time and space in literature.
  • Representation of race and ethnicity within contemporary fiction.
  • Representation of LGBTQ characters in literary works.
  • The role of mythology during the era of ancient works.
  • Social media impact on modern texts.
  • Classic and contemporary literary criticism.

Interesting Literary Research Paper Topics

If you are interested in classic books or modern trends, these ideas can be a fascinating starting point for your project. They include theories, criticism, comparison, and specific authors or genres. Besides providing an analysis of the work, a literary research paper topic could also comprise examining different themes. Explore the following interesting literature topics for your project:

  • Literary influences of Jane Austen's works.
  • Symbolism as represented by gothic texts.
  • Relevance of classic mythology within contemporary fiction.
  • The role of magic or fantasy in children's literature.
  • The role of women in Victorian literature.
  • Representation of race and ethnicity in early 20th-century literature.
  • Themes of love and loss in romantic poetry.
  • The use of horror genres in contemporary fiction.
  • Postcolonialism's impact on literary works.
  • Nature in 19th-century literature .
  • Representation of LGBTQ characters as represented by contemporary fiction.
  • Technology's impact on modern literary works.
  • Classic and contemporary interpretations of gothic texts.
  • The role of magic and fantasy in modern literary works.
  • Representation of death and loss in 20th-century works.

Great Literature Research Paper Topics

A list of great literature research topics provides a variety of ideas related to literary works. These research topics in literature can offer an exciting starting point for your English paper:

  • Rebellion themes in Shakespeare's tragedies.
  • Class and economic status in Victorian texts.
  • Symbolism in romantic poetry.
  • Impact of British imperialism on literary fiction worldwide.
  • Gender and sexuality representation in early 20th-century writings.
  • Postcolonialism in 19th-century fiction.
  • The literary influence of WWII on modern writings.
  • Vampires' role in gothic literary texts.
  • Use of fantasy in childhood writings.
  • Technology's impact on contemporary literary works.
  • Race and ethnicity as represented by postmodern fiction.
  • Religion in romantic poetry.
  • Themes of love and loss in 20th-century texts.
  • Horror genres in literary fiction.
  • Postmodernism's impact on contemporary literary works.

Unique Literature Research Paper Topics

Unique literature topics for research papers can help students explore new concepts and gain a deeper understanding of their subject. Below are rare literature paper topics for you to review:

  • The role of jealousy in 17th-century literary works.
  • Gender identity as represented by reformist fiction.
  • Mythological figures as portrayed by Greek and Roman poetry.
  • The relationship between gender and power in Shakespeare's plays.
  • Themes of isolation in 20th-century British poetry.
  • Metaphors in the works of Gabriel García Márquez .
  • Themes of rebellion and revolution in African American literary texts.
  • The role of women in medieval romance literature.
  • Poverty representation in Victorian novels.
  • Themes of oppression and freedom in colonial Latin American texts.
  • Use of metaphor and allegory in Dante's divine comedy.
  • Influence of industrialization on 19th-century fiction.
  • Dystopian settings within modern literature.
  • Religion in contemporary fiction.

Spotted any ideas for your literature research paper? Now it’s time to compose your study. Leave us ‘ do my research paper ’ notice and get a professional writer to work on your project. 

Controversial Literary Research Paper Topics

Controversial literary research topics can provide students with an opportunity to explore complex and sometimes contentious issues related to literary texts. Find below a controversial literary research paper topic for your dream English project!

  • Racial stereotypes during 19th-century English literature.
  • Themes of sexuality and desire in ancient Greek poetry.
  • The relationship between political power and language in Shakespeare's plays.
  • Conflict representation during 20th-century English fiction.
  • English role in colonial Indian literature.
  • Gender and racial representations within African American autobiographies.
  • Themes of justice and control in Victorian English novels.
  • Themes of oppression and resistance in feminist texts.
  • The role of English in modern Japanese fiction.
  • Themes of identity and belonging in postcolonial Indian literature.
  • Censorship, free speech, and social responsibility in 19th-century English novels.
  • Politics and power representations in Latin American poetry.
  • Gender, race, and class representations in English renaissance drama.
  • English as a tool for political ideology within the works of George Orwell.
  • Language used to defy authority during modern fiction writing.

Fresh Literature Research Paper Ideas

Coming up with fresh ideas for literature research topics can be daunting. Students may want to look at the works they have studied or venture outside the traditional reading list and explore different authors and genres. Some literature research paper ideas comprise studying how certain authors influenced the literary movement, analyzing how language has been used throughout history, or examining gender, race, and class representations from a literary text. Here is a perfect list of fresh ideas!

  • Aesthetics as presented by postmodern fiction.
  • The theme of loss as portrayed by African authors .
  • Use of language throughout history.
  • Identity and belonging representation in contemporary young adult fiction.
  • The intersection between art and literature in modern poetry.
  • Themes of authority, rebellion, and revolution in medieval epic poetry.
  • Role of fantasy in horror fiction.
  • Gender, race, and class representations within British romanticism.
  • American literary realism and naturalism.
  • Influence of symbolism on French modernist poetry.
  • Construction of memory within African American autobiographies.
  • Representation of narrative time in Latin American fiction.
  • Social injustice theme during early 20th-century American drama.
  • The relationship between social identity and language during postcolonial fiction.
  • Values and beliefs representations as presented by ancient Greek mythology.

Literature Research Paper Topics for Students

For students looking for research topics in literature for study, there is a wide variety of options available. Depending on the level and course, they might focus on analyzing particular authors, literary movements, or genres, exploring the use of language throughout history, or examining representations of gender, race, and class in books. You also need to study literary devices and their effects on readers when exploring literary topics for a research paper . Below are examples of literature topics for different students:

Literature Research Paper Topics for High School

These are literature topics to research, specifically tailored to high school students. They involve exploring the influence of literary work on culture, analyzing a single author's literary movement or genre, or investigating language use throughout history. This list of research topics in literature for high school provides an original starting point for your literary project!

  • Racism as presented during early 20th-century works.
  • Social criticism within contemporary dystopian young adult fiction.
  • Folklore's impact on contemporary poetry.
  • Representation of nature in modern literature.
  • Spirituality as portrayed by reformist literature.
  • Social class representation within postmodern novels.
  • The theme of environment in romantic works.
  • Colonialism representation during postcolonial works.
  • Effects of pop culture on modern fiction.
  • Mental illness representation during 19th-century poetry.
  • The role of music and art in early 20th-century literary texts.
  • Literature's influence on identity building in minority cultures.
  • Family dynamics in postmodern poetry.
  • Family and community representations during gothic fiction.
  • Literature as a tool for social change.

Literature Research Paper Topics for College Students

These titles entail more serious and in-depth scrutiny than a high school literary paper. A college-level literary research paper topic provides students with a broader range of analysis. It encompasses looking at literature as a form of political commentary to get its relationship with other art forms. Below are literature research paper topics for college students:

  • Identity construction during postmodern poetry.
  • Alienation themes within modern fiction.
  • Gender role representations in Shakespearean tragedies.
  • The relationship between narrative and memory within Holocaust literature.
  • Nature's role in contemporary American fiction.
  • Authority and subversion themes during the early 20th-century drama.
  • Race, class, and gender representation within African American autobiographies.
  • Social media influence the literary language.
  • The relationship between social identity and language in postcolonial fiction.
  • Values as presented by ancient Greek mythology .
  • Psychological distress during 20th-century war narratives.
  • Attitudes towards mental illness as portrayed by gothic texts.
  • The relationship between science and literary imagination.
  • Social hierarchy within Victorian novels.
  • Religion's role in southern American literature.

Literary Research Paper Topics by Categories

Research paper topics for literature by category offer an exclusive and stimulating perspective on literary analysis worldwide. They can be grouped into literary movements, authors, and genres, as well as topics related to language and history. If you are interested in European, American, and English literature topics, these ideas will help you find the perfect literary research paper topic for your project.

World Literature Research Paper Topics

Research paper topics for world literature allow students to explore literary works from any part of the world, including texts written in English, Spanish, and other languages. Below is a list that provides original world literature research topics for any project:

  • Impact of colonialism on native literary traditions.
  • Gender representation within French literature.
  • Religion's role within literary works from Latin America.
  • Symbolism in English poetry from the 19th century.
  • Themes of nationalism within modern Russian fiction.
  • Power and politics in Spanish plays.
  • Conflict as portrayed by African literature.
  • The role of folklore within Chinese fiction.
  • Themes of cultural identity in Japanese drama.
  • Family ties in Italian poetry.
  • Symbolism in Arabic literature.
  • Social class representation in Indian novels.
  • Impact of globalization on middle eastern fiction.
  • Human rights themes by contemporary Australian poets.
  • Western representations of other cultures in modern literature.

American Literature Research Paper Topics

In research paper topics for American literature, you examine the works of early American writers and poets, as well as those from later periods. Here is a list of American literature topics for your paper!

  • Attitudes towards race in early American novels.
  • Colonialism during 19th-century poetry.
  • Freedom and rebellion themes within revolutionary literature.
  • The emergence of gothic horror in American fiction.
  • Impact of transcendentalism on American writing.
  • Gender representation during pre-civil war literature .
  • Themes of morality in post-World War II American fiction.
  • Role of religion during 19th-century American novels.
  • Slavery and its abolition by American poets.
  • Social class representation during early American drama.
  • Themes of identity in postmodern American fiction.
  • Industrialization of 20th-century literature.
  • War and conflict representation by contemporary American playwrights.
  • Racism in 20th-century American novels.
  • Assimilation and immigration themes in post-World War II American literature.

British Literature Research Paper Topics

In British literature research topics, you explore works from early British writers to contemporary authors. Ideally, research topics for British literature should encompass works written by authors from all eras, including Medieval, Renaissance, and modern. 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.
  • Interpretations of classic British literary works.
  • Social class representations during 19th-century British fiction.
  • Themes of love and romance within Victorian literature.
  • Industrialization's impact on 20th-century British novels.
  • Patriotism and nationalism during post-World War II literary work.
  • Multiculturalism representations in postmodern British fiction.
  • Effects of censorship on British authors during the 20th century.
  • Mental health representation in modern British poetry.
  • Representation of historical events in British works throughout time.
  • Technological representations in 21st-century British Novels.
  • Intersectionality by contemporary British playwrights.

Did you know that you can generate a bunch of title ideas using our Research Paper Topic Generator ?

European Literary Research Paper Topics

European literature research paper topics offer an excellent opportunity to explore the works of European authors. They allow you to study and analyze the academic traditions and cultures of some of Europe's most influential writers. You can find such literary research paper topic ideas in the list below:

  • Representations of the European monarchy in classic novels.
  • Censorship effects on European authors during the 20th century.
  • Impact of World War II on European authors.
  • Gender representations within Victorian poetry.
  • Literary works from different countries and cultures in Europe.
  • Use of language, symbolism, and imagery to explore themes in European texts.
  • Themes of nature and environment within German short stories.
  • Technology representations in late Victorian poetry.
  • Popular culture's influence on European literary movements from the 20th century to modern times.
  • Impact of European literary works on people's perceptions of other cultures.
  • Use of supernatural elements within European gothic writings from the 18th to 19th centuries.
  • Identity representations in French social realism texts.
  • Technology's impact on contemporary European literary works.
  • Family and community representations during post-war theater.
  • Themes of justice and injustice within European dystopian texts.

Literature Research Paper Ideas by Periods

You may aspire to find literature topics for research papers from different historical periods. This involves studying literature from various cultures or eras, such as ancient, medieval, or modern ones. These ideas also cover the examination of themes and symbols used in writings and scrutinizing characters and their development through various works. Other topics include the exploration of texts from a political perspective in relation to their historical contexts. These ideas contain some literary research topics from various periods:

Ancient Literary Research Paper Topics

There are many exciting options to consider if you're looking for ancient literature research paper topics. They can be studied with regard to history, culture, art, and philosophy. To gain more insight, you could explore the works of Homer, Henry James, Virgil, and the Mahabharata, or old Egyptian writings, such as The Iliad and Odyssey . Below is a list of ancient literature topics for research you can choose from.

  • Gender representations in epic poetry.
  • Role of mythology and religion in ancient texts.
  • Influence of philosophy on ancient literature.
  • Power representations in Greek tragedy.
  • Heroism by early epic authors.
  • Love and marriage in ancient texts.
  • Ancient narratives of war and conflict.
  • Slavery representations in Roman poetry.
  • The role of music and art in classical literature.
  • Nature representations in ancient texts.
  • Politics' influence on Greek comedy.
  • Family and community representations in roman narratives.
  • Characters' representation in epic poetry.
  • The role of technology in early literary works.
  • Representations of the divine in ancient texts.
Read more: History Research Topics for Students 

Medieval Literature Research Paper Topics

The medieval literary study provides a unique opportunity to explore literature research topics of the Middle Ages. From Beowulf to The Canterbury Tales , these works offer insights into this era's cultural beliefs and values. Here are such literary topics for research papers to focus on:

  • Representations of medieval chivalry in literary works.
  • Religion's influence on medieval works.
  • Gender representation in medieval texts.
  • The role of magic in medieval narratives.
  • The impact of feudalism on medieval texts.
  • Honor and loyalty representations by chivalric texts.
  • The role of courtly love in medieval works.
  • Knights and warriors' representations in literary works.
  • Warfare representations in medieval texts.
  • The role of education and learning in medieval literature.

Renaissance Literary Research Paper Topics

The Renaissance literature research paper ideas explore works of literature during the Renaissance era, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th century. They focus on the themes, authors, and literature of this period to provide a better understanding of how literary works have evolved within this timeframe and their impact on our current literature. Some of the most influential figures who contributed immensely to writings during this era were William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. If you are interested in researching this period, you can consider a literature research paper topic from the list below:

  • Love and romance representations in Renaissance texts.
  • Science and technology in 16th-century literature.
  • Class and social status representations in Renaissance literary works.
  • Classical mythology in Renaissance poetry.
  • Representations of family and community in Renaissance narratives.
  • Effects of humanism on Renaissance literature in Europe.
  • Imagery role by William Shakespeare .
  • Representations of art, music, and theater in Renaissance texts.
  • Politics' role in 16th-century literary texts.
  • Nature representation by John Milton or Torquato Tasso.
  • Exploration influence on Renaissance narratives.
  • Influence of Renaissance literature on modern writing.
  • Women's representation in literary texts by Anne Bradstreet or Aphra Behn.
  • Magic and supernatural representations in literary works of Renaissance.
  • Humanism and individualism themes within Renaissance literature.

Romantic Literature Research Paper Ideas

Romantic literature emerged during the late 18th century and flourished throughout the early 19th century in Europe. It is characterized by its focus on emotion and depictions of nature. This movement had a lasting impact on literary works and has been highly influential. Research topics in literature can explore the writings of authors such as Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and William Wordsworth. Here are some ideas related to romanticism:

  • Nature representations in Romantic texts.
  • The role of emotion as depicted in 19th-century literature.
  • Influence of Romantic authors on modern literature and culture.
  • Women's representation in Romantic narratives.
  • Industrialization impact on 19th-century texts.
  • Influence of religion and superstition in early Romantic texts.
  • Use of technology to discuss themes in Romantic texts from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
  • The role of education as portrayed by Romantic narratives.
  • Character analysis and plot structure in gothic fiction.
  • Nationalism and patriotism as represented by post-Napoleonic war poems.

Modernist Literary Research Paper Topics

Modern literature emerged during the early 20th century until the end of World War II. It is characterized by a rejection of traditional conventions and focused on experimentation with form. This movement had an unprecedented impact on literature research topics and is highly influential today. If you are looking for literary topics for research papers that focus on modernism, consider exploring the following:

  • Nature representations by modern texts.
  • Social inequality in 21st-century novels.
  • Modernism's influence on current literature and culture.
  • Climate change within contemporary fiction.
  • Impact of social injustice on 20th-century literary works.
  • Urbanization representations by modern literary texts.
  • Education's influence on modernist narratives.
  • Wealth and power in early modernist texts.
  • Themes of urban life by Ezra Pound or Wallace Stevens.
  • Modernism's impact on classical literature.
  • Globalization themes within postmodern poetry.
  • Multiculturalism themes in contemporary literary works.
  • Mental health representations in modern British novels.
  • Global conflict representation in modern fiction.
  • The influence of psychoanalysis on modernist literature.

Current Literature Research Paper Ideas

Current literature paper topics can look at the latest trends. They include exploring contemporary works such as Harry Potter by J.K Rowling and Stardust by Neil Gaiman. These topics may also involve analyzing social media's effects on literary writings. If you are looking for current literary topics for a research paper, consider the following:

  • Technological impact on literary works in the 21st century.
  • Art, music, and theater in modern texts.
  • Impact of conflict on recent literary works.
  • Social injustice in 21st-century narratives.
  • Racism, ethnicity, and slavery in contemporary texts.
  • Wealth and power in recent literary works.
  • Globalization themes in postmodern poetry.
  • Urbanization in modern writings.
  • Immigration within postmodern British novels.

In case you need more paper topics, feel free to browse our blog. We have a wide arsenal of ideas starting from philosophy research paper topics to education research paper topics .  

Bottom Line on Literature Research Paper Topics

Literature topics for research can explore a wide range of themes and works. Whether you are looking for visionary ideas about poetry, fiction, or books from different eras, there is no shortage of literature paper topics to choose from. To narrow down your focus and find the best idea for your project, consider researching literary movements, reading widely, and thinking about the areas that interest you most.  Literature topics for research papers should be chosen based on students' interests and areas of expertise. By conducting in-depth research, you will gain a greater appreciation for literary work and its impact on society. With this article as a guide, you can take the time to find a topic that speaks to you and create an engaging research paper.

Illustration

We would like to remind you that our professional writers are available 24/7 and will be glad to help you. StudyCrumb provides the best research paper writing service quickly and efficiently. Fill out the form on our website, and don't worry about anything else.

Joe_Eckel_1_ab59a03630.jpg

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

You may also like

Education Research Topics

StatAnalytica

Top 300 Engaging Literature Research Paper Topics

Literature Research Paper Topics

Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of literature? This guide is your passport to exploring fascinating literature research paper topics that will spark your curiosity and imagination. Whether you’re passionate about classic novels, modern poetry, or even graphic novels, there’s a topic here waiting to be discovered by you.

Uncover themes that echo across cultures, analyze the impact of influential authors, or even dive into the evolution of storytelling through the ages. From Shakespeare’s timeless works to contemporary masterpieces, this compilation offers a treasure of ideas that will make your research journey exciting and fulfilling.

Discover the power of words, uncover the mysteries behind beloved characters, and explore the socio-cultural contexts that shaped literary movements. Get ready to go on an intellectual adventure that will deepen your appreciation for the writings.

So, grab your notebook and pen, and let’s start this exciting literary exploration together. 

What Are The Key Elements Of A Good Research Paper?

Table of Contents

A good research paper should contain several key elements to ensure its effectiveness, credibility, and impact. When these elements come together effectively, they create a research paper that is rigid, insightful, and contributes meaningfully to its academic or professional domain. They are as:

  • Clear and Focused Topic: A well-defined and specific research question or topic that is relevant and interesting.
  • Thorough Literature Review: A complete review of existing literature to establish context, identify gaps, and support the research hypothesis or argument.
  • Solid Methodology: Clear explanation of the research methods employed, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods, ensuring they are appropriate for the research question.
  • Credible Sources: Reliance on credible and scholarly sources to support arguments and findings. This includes peer-reviewed journals, academic books, and reputable websites.
  • Strong Thesis Statement: A concise and arguable thesis statement that articulates the main argument or point of the paper.
  • Logical Structure: A well-organized structure with clear divisions containing introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
  • Critical Analysis: A critical evaluation of data or literature, providing insightful analysis and interpretation, not just summary.
  • Proper Citations and References: Accurate and consistent citation of sources following a specific citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).
  • Clarity and Precision: Clear, concise, and precise writing that is free from jargon or unnecessary complexity, ensuring accessibility to a wide audience.
  • Conclusion and Implications: A strong conclusion that summarizes key findings and discusses their implications, suggesting avenues for further research or application.
  • Editing and Proofreading: Thorough editing and proofreading to eliminate errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling, ensuring a polished final product.
  • Originality and Contribution: Demonstrating original thought, analysis, or contribution to the field, providing new insights or perspectives.

Now for your convenience, we have categorized the literature research topics under different categories, and they are as follows:

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Shakespearean Studies

  • Portrayal of Women in Shakespearean Plays
  • Exploration of Tragic Flaws in Shakespearean Characters
  • The Influence of Greek Tragedy on Shakespearean Drama
  • Shakespeare’s Sonnets: Themes and Analysis
  • Political Themes in Shakespearean Plays
  • The Role of Comedy in Shakespeare’s Works
  • Adaptations of Shakespearean Plays in Modern Media
  • Analysis of Shakespeare’s Historical Accuracy
  • Madness and Sanity in Shakespearean Characters
  • The Concept of Love and Relationships in Shakespeare’s Works
  • Shakespearean Villains: Motivations and Representations
  • Religious Elements in Shakespearean Plays
  • Comparative Study of Tragedies and Comedies in Shakespearean Literature
  • Gender Roles and Identity in Shakespearean Society
  • Shakespeare’s Influence on English Language and Literature
  • Exploration of Revenge in Shakespearean Plays
  • Psychological Depth in Shakespearean Characters
  • Theatrical Performance Techniques in Shakespearean Era
  • The Theme of Power and Authority in Shakespeare’s Works
  • Interpretation of Fate and Destiny in Shakespearean Plays

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Modernist Literature

  • Stream of Consciousness Narratives in Modernist Literature
  • The Role of Urban Settings in Modernist Novels
  • Fragmentation and Experimental Structures in Modernist Writing
  • Modernist Poetry: Innovation and Themes
  • Political and Social Critique in Modernist Literature
  • Modernist Women Writers and Their Impact
  • Influence of World War I on Modernist Literature
  • Change from Realism to Modernism in Literature
  • Modernist Literature and the Exploration of Identity
  • Modernist Short Stories: Techniques and Themes
  • Symbolism and Imagery in Modernist Novels
  • Streamlining Time and Narrative in Modernist Fiction
  • Transatlantic Modernism: Comparing American and European Movements
  • Modernist Plays and Theatrical Innovations
  • Modernist Literature and Psychoanalytic Theories
  • Interwar Period and Modernist Literature
  • Modernist Literature and the Cityscape
  • Religious and Spiritual Motifs in Modernist Works
  • Feminist Perspectives in Modernist Writing
  • Modernist Literature: Reactions to Industrialization and Modernity

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Post-Colonial Literature

  • Decolonization and Identity in Post-Colonial Literature
  • Subaltern Voices in Post-Colonial Texts
  • Effect of Colonialism on Cultural Hybridity in Literature
  • Post-Colonial Literature and Resistance Narratives
  • Colonial Trauma and Memory in Post-Colonial Writing
  • Post-Colonial Feminism in Literature
  • Nationalism and Post-Colonial Identity
  • Post-Colonialism and Language Politics in Literature
  • Indigenous Perspectives in Post-Colonial Texts
  • Diasporic Literature in Post-Colonial Contexts
  • Globalization and Post-Colonial Literary Discourse
  • Postcolonial Ecocriticism in Literature
  • Power Dynamics and Post-Colonial Representation
  • Post-Colonialism and Magical Realism in Literature
  • Postcolonialism and Postmodernism in Literary Works
  • Subversion of Colonial Stereotypes in Literature
  • Hybrid Identities in Post-Colonial Texts
  • Post-Colonial Literature and the Politics of Place
  • Post-Colonial Literature and Reimagining History
  • Post-Colonial Literature and the Legacy of Empire

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Feminist Perspectives in Literature

  • Representation of Women in Classic Literature: Challenges and Transformations
  • Feminist Critique of Patriarchal Norms in Literature
  • Intersectionality in Feminist Literature
  • Feminist Reinterpretation of Fairy Tales and Folklore
  • Female Bildungsroman in Literature
  • Ecofeminism and Environmental Concerns in Literature
  • Motherhood and Maternal Experience in Literature
  • Feminist Dystopian Literature: Power and Resistance
  • Body Politics and Feminist Discourse in Literary Works
  • Feminist Perspectives on Sexuality and Gender Identity in Literature
  • Feminist Satire and Irony in Literature
  • Women’s Writing and Feminist Literary Canon
  • Feminist Themes in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature
  • Feminist Perspectives on Women of Color in Literature
  • Feminist Manifestos and Essays in Literary Contexts
  • Feminist Revisioning of Mythology and Legends in Literature
  • Feminist Utopian Visions in Literary Works
  • Feminist Perspectives on Marriage and Relationships in Literature
  • Feminist Critique of Male Authors and their Representation of Women
  • Feminist Discourse in Contemporary Literature

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Literary Criticism and Theory

  • Structuralism and its Impact on Literary Criticism
  • Post-structuralist Perspectives in Literary Theory
  • New Criticism: Analysis of Textual Elements
  • Reader-response Theory and Interpretation in Literature
  • Formalism and its Influence on Literary Analysis
  • Marxist Literary Criticism: Class and Ideology in Texts
  • Psychoanalytic Literary Theory and Character Analysis
  • Feminist Literary Criticism: Gender and Power Dynamics
  • Deconstructionist Theory in Literary Analysis
  • Postcolonial Literary Criticism and its Applications
  • Queer Theory in Literary Interpretation
  • Ecocriticism and Environmental Literary Theory
  • Aestheticism and the Philosophy of Art in Literature
  • Cultural Studies and Literary Criticism
  • Critical Race Theory and Literature
  • Comparative Literature and Critical Theory
  • Reception Theory and its Impact on Literary Studies
  • Formalist Literary Theory and Russian Formalism
  • Semiotics and Significance in Literary Criticism
  • Narrative Theory and its Role in Analyzing Texts

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Comparative Literature

  • Comparative Analysis of Mythological Narratives across Cultures
  • Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Shakespearean Plays
  • Comparative Study of Fairy Tales from Different Regions
  • Multilingualism in Comparative Literature
  • Comparative Exploration of Epic Poetry
  • Cultural Exchange in Translated Literary Works
  • Comparative Analysis of Post-War Literature from Various Countries
  • Comparative Approaches to Folklore and Oral Traditions
  • Interdisciplinary Studies in Comparative Literature
  • Comparative Study of Contemporary Graphic Novels Worldwide
  • Comparative Analysis of Existential Themes in World Literature
  • Comparative Analysis of Literary Movements in Different Regions
  • Comparative Perspectives on Colonial and Post-Colonial Literature
  • Comparative Study of Detective Fiction across Cultures
  • Comparative Analysis of Tragic Drama in Different Cultures
  • Comparative Study of Bildungsroman Novels from Various Cultures
  • Comparative Analysis of Magical Realism in World Literature
  • Comparative Exploration of Science Fiction in Different Languages
  • Comparative Study of Feminist Literature Globally
  • Comparative Perspectives on Utopian and Dystopian Fiction

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On LGBTQ+ Themes in Literature

  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Classic Literature
  • Queer Theory and its Application in Literary Analysis
  • LGBTQ+ Coming-of-Age Narratives in Literature
  • Transgender Identities in Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Contemporary Poetry
  • LGBTQ+ Relationships in Historical Fiction
  • Homosexuality and Gender Fluidity in Mythological Texts
  • LGBTQ+ Memoirs and Autobiographies in Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Young Adult Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Voices in Science Fiction and Fantasy
  • LGBTQ+ Perspectives in Graphic Novels and Comics
  • LGBTQ+ Characters in Children’s Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Theater and Performance Arts
  • Intersectionality and LGBTQ+ Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Diasporic Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Activism and Representation in Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Mystery and Crime Fiction
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Non-Western Literary Traditions
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Postcolonial Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Speculative Fiction

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Science Fiction and Fantasy

  • Evolution of Science Fiction: From Pulp to Modern
  • Dystopian Futures in Science Fiction Literature
  • Hard Science Fiction: Exploring Scientific Accuracy in Sci-Fi
  • Cyberpunk Literature: Technology and Society
  • Feminist Themes in Science Fiction
  • Space Opera and Epic Science Fiction
  • Alternate Realities in Fantasy Literature
  • Magic Systems in Fantasy Worlds
  • Mythological Influences in Fantasy Literature
  • Time Travel in Science Fiction and Fantasy
  • Artificial Intelligence in Science Fiction
  • Alien Cultures and Intergalactic Politics in Sci-Fi
  • Folklore and Fairy Tales in Fantasy Writing
  • Steampunk: Victorian Era Reimagined in Literature
  • Post-Apocalyptic Narratives in Science Fiction
  • Superheroes and Supervillains in Comics and Novels
  • Evolution of Robots and Androids in Sci-Fi
  • Quests and Journeys in Fantasy Epics
  • Environmental Themes in Science Fiction
  • Multiverse Theory in Speculative Fiction

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On African American Literature

  • Harlem Renaissance and Its Literary Legacy
  • Slave Narratives in African American Literature
  • Civil Rights Movement in African American Writing
  • Oral Traditions in African American Literature
  • Folklore and Mythology in African American Stories
  • African American Women Writers: Their Contributions
  • Reconstruction Era Literature and its Significance
  • Jazz and Blues Influences in African American Writing
  • Contemporary Voices in African American Literature
  • Intersectionality and Identity in African American Writing
  • Symbolism of the African Diaspora in Literature
  • Afrofuturism in African American Literature
  • Urban Realism and African American Urban Experience
  • Religion and Spirituality in African American Writing
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in African American Literature
  • African American Children’s Literature
  • The Impact of Toni Morrison’s Literary Contributions
  • African American Poetry: Tradition and Innovation
  • Critique of Racism in African American Literature
  • African American Short Stories and Their Impact

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Environmental Literature

  • Ecocriticism: Exploring Nature in Literature
  • Environmental Activism in Literary Works
  • Wilderness and the American Imagination in Literature
  • Climate Change Narratives in Environmental Literature
  • Nature Writing and the Natural World in Literature
  • Urban Ecology in Literary Works
  • Indigenous Perspectives on Nature in Literature
  • Environmental Ethics in Literary Discourse
  • Flora and Fauna in Environmental Literature
  • Environmental Justice and Literature
  • Posthumanism and Nature in Literary Contexts
  • Landscapes and Identities in Environmental Writing
  • Ecolinguistics and Language in Environmental Literature
  • Sustainable Living in Literary Narratives
  • Environmental Catastrophe in Fiction and Non-Fiction
  • Evolution of the Environmental Movement in Literature
  • Biodiversity and Conservation in Literary Texts
  • Waterscapes and Maritime Literature in an Environmental Context
  • Rewilding and Restoration in Environmental Narratives
  • Rural vs. Urban Perspectives in Environmental Literature

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Mythology and Folklore in Literature

  • Comparative Analysis of Creation Myths Worldwide
  • Heroic Archetypes in Mythological Epics
  • Role of Trickster Figures in Folklore Narratives
  • Mythological Symbolism in Modern Literature
  • Goddesses and Feminine Archetypes in Mythology
  • Folklore and Oral Tradition Preservation in Literature
  • Supernatural Entities in Folklore Narratives
  • Mythological Influences on Fantasy Fiction
  • Mythical Creatures and Beasts in Literature
  • Cultural Significance of Mythological Heroes
  • Transformational Journeys in Mythological Tales
  • Sacred Texts and Mythological Interpretations
  • Shamanism and Mythology in Literature
  • Mythological Motifs in Children’s Literature
  • Folklore Rituals and Ceremonies in Literary Contexts
  • Mythological Retellings in Contemporary Fiction
  • Folklore Adaptations in Theater and Performance Arts
  • Archetypal Patterns in Mythological Stories
  • Mythological Elements in Poetry and Songs
  • Comparative Study of Mythical Lands in Literature

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Gothic Literature

  • Psychological Themes in Gothic Literature
  • Gothic Elements in Victorian Novels
  • The Supernatural in Gothic Fiction
  • Gothic Architecture and Settings in Literature
  • Female Gothic and Gender Dynamics
  • Gothic Literature and the Sublime
  • Madness and Mental Illness in Gothic Texts
  • Gothic Romanticism and Love Themes
  • Gothic Literature: Villains and Antiheroes
  • Death and Decay in Gothic Novels
  • Gothic Influence on Contemporary Horror
  • Gothic Revival in Modern Literature
  • Religion and the Occult in Gothic Stories
  • The Role of Nature in Gothic Fiction
  • Gothic Tropes in Mystery and Suspense
  • Gothic Literature: Fear and Terror
  • Gothic Elements in Graphic Novels
  • Gothic Symbolism and Imagery
  • Female Empowerment in Gothic Novels
  • Gothic Subculture and Its Literary Impact

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Children’s Literature

  • Evolution of Fairy Tales in Children’s Literature
  • Moral Lessons in Classic Children’s Stories
  • Representation of Gender Roles in Children’s Books
  • Picture Books and Visual Storytelling for Children
  • Diversity and Inclusion in Contemporary Children’s Literature
  • Coming-of-Age Themes in Young Adult Fiction
  • Education and Learning in Children’s Literature
  • Animal Characters in Children’s Stories
  • Adventure and Quests in Children’s Fantasy
  • Psychological Development in Children’s Books
  • Folklore and Folktales for Young Readers
  • Environmental Themes in Children’s Literature
  • Humor and Wit in Children’s Stories
  • Historical Fiction for Young Readers
  • Multicultural Perspectives in Children’s Literature
  • Friendship and Relationships in Kids’ Books
  • Empowerment and Resilience in Children’s Stories
  • Ethical Dilemmas and Decision-Making in Children’s Fiction
  • Fairy Tale Retellings in Contemporary Children’s Literature
  • Literary Adaptations for Children’s Theatre

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Literature of the Harlem Renaissance

  • Effect of the Harlem Renaissance on African American Literature
  • The Role of Jazz and Music in Harlem Renaissance Literature
  • Harlem Renaissance Poetry: Themes and Innovations
  • Political and Social Commentary in Harlem Renaissance Writing
  • Harlem Renaissance Novelists and their Contributions
  • The Influence of Langston Hughes in the Harlem Renaissance
  • Artistic Expression and Visual Arts in the Harlem Renaissance
  • Women Writers and Feminist Perspectives in the Harlem Renaissance
  • Harlem Renaissance and the Great Migration
  • Literary Magazines and Publications of the Harlem Renaissance
  • The Impact of Harlem Renaissance on American Culture
  • Harlem Renaissance Playwrights and Theater Productions
  • Harlem Renaissance and the Evolution of African American Identity
  • Folklore and Oral Traditions in Harlem Renaissance Literature
  • Critiques of Racial Injustice in Harlem Renaissance Texts
  • Harlem Renaissance Short Stories: Themes and Techniques
  • LGBTQ+ Themes and Identities in Harlem Renaissance Literature
  • Harlem Renaissance and the Birth of the New Negro Movement
  • Harlem Renaissance and the Exploration of African Heritage
  • Harlem Renaissance Legacy in Contemporary Literature

Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Asian Literature and Cultural Influences

  • Themes of Tradition and Modernity in Asian Literature
  • The Influence of Buddhism on Asian Literary Works
  • Confucianism and Its Impact on Asian Literature
  • Women’s Voices in Asian Literature
  • The Role of Nature in Asian Literary Traditions
  • Comparative Analysis of East Asian Literary Movements
  • The Impact of War on Asian Literary Narratives
  • Folklore and Mythological Influences in Asian Literature
  • Postcolonial Perspectives in Asian Literary Works
  • Representations of Cultural Identity in South Asian Literature
  • The Role of Family and Community in Asian Literary Texts
  • Diasporic Narratives in Asian Literature
  • Indigenous Perspectives in Asian Literary Traditions
  • Religious Syncretism in Asian Literary Themes
  • Urbanization and Changing Landscapes in Asian Literature
  • LGBTQ+ Themes in Contemporary Asian Literature
  • Magical Realism in Asian Literary Contexts
  • Exploring Colonial Legacies in Asian Literature
  • Environmental Concerns in Asian Literary Narratives
  • Asian Literature in Global Contexts

Exploring these diverse literature research paper topics offers a gateway to endless possibilities. Your journey through these themes and ideas isn’t just about writing papers it’s about discovering new worlds and perspectives. Take what you’ve learned and let it fuel your curiosity even further. Share your insights with others, start discussions, and inspire curiosity in those around you. 

Remember, literature isn’t confined to books; it’s a reflection of our world, our history, and our dreams. So, as you conclude this exploration, consider how these topics have broadened your horizons and continue seeking the stories that resonate with you. Keep exploring, keep learning, and keep the magic of literature alive.

Related Posts

best way to finance car

Step by Step Guide on The Best Way to Finance Car

how to get fund for business

The Best Way on How to Get Fund For Business to Grow it Efficiently

275 Good Literature Research Paper Topics & Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

Literature research paper topics span a vast range of themes, diving deep Into diverse cultural expressions of humanity encapsulated in texts. They may include examining the role of gender, race, or class in seminal works, deconstructing narrative strategies used by specific literature authors, or probing historical and social contexts that influenced particular literary movements. Comparative literature studies offer fascinating insights by contrasting different authors, periods, or cultures. Literary theories, like postmodernism, feminism, or post-colonialism, provide additional lenses to interpret texts critically. On a more granular level, an analysis of symbols, motifs, or character development in a single literature work can yield rich discussions. The impact of digital media on literature is another progressive angle. With the vast scope and depth, literature research paper topics invite the exploration of multi-faceted dimensions.

Top Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Modern Interpretations of Shakespeare’s Female Characters
  • Comparative Analysis of Magic Realism in Latin American and African Literature
  • Gender Stereotypes in Classic “Fairy Tales”: A Feminist Reading
  • Postcolonial Discourses in Salman Rushdie’s Novels
  • The Portrayal of Mental Health Issues in Young Adult Dystopian Novels
  • Tragic Elements and Morality in Ancient Greek Drama
  • Medieval Literature: A Deep Dive Into Chivalric Codes
  • Depictions of Nature in Romantic Poetry: Keats and Wordsworth
  • Satire as a Political Tool in Jonathan Swift’s Works
  • Insights Into Victorian Society through Charles Dickens’s Novels
  • Analysis of Irony in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • Existential Themes in Albert Camus’s “The Stranger”
  • Reading Into Metaphysical Elements in John Donne’s Poetry
  • Gothic Tropes in Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights”
  • Exploration of Race Relations in Toni Morrison’s “Beloved”
  • Mapping Journey Motifs in Homer’s “Odyssey”
  • Postmodern Narrative Techniques in Kurt Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse-Five”
  • Elements of Surrealism in Gabriel García Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • Unraveling Childhood Innocence in J.D. Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye”
  • Deciphering Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”

Good Literature Research Paper Topics & Ideas

Simple Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Love Themes in “Romeo and Juliet”
  • “Pride and Prejudice”: A Study of Class Differences
  • Symbolism in Classics: “The Old Man and the Sea”
  • Epistolary Style in “Dracula”: Advantages and Limitations
  • Human Nature in “Lord of the Flies”
  • Nature Imagery in Wordsworth’s Poetry
  • Dualism in “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”
  • Portrayal of Women in “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • Morality in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Shakespeare’s Use of Soliloquy in “Hamlet”
  • Dystopian Elements in “1984”
  • Heroism in “Beowulf”: An Analysis
  • Innocence and Experience in Blake’s “Songs of Innocence and of Experience”
  • Significance of Dreams in Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”
  • Children’s Perspective in “The Secret Garden”
  • Comparing Bronte Sisters: Themes in “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights”
  • Post-War Reality in “The Catcher in the Rye”
  • Survival and Humanity in “The Road”
  • Animal Imagery in Orwell’s “Animal Farm”

Interesting Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Dystopian Projections in Margaret Atwood’s “Oryx and Crake”
  • Magical Elements in Salman Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children”
  • Challenging Class Systems in Dickens’s “Great Expectations”
  • Existential Concerns in Kafka’s “The Trial”
  • Depicting Childhood Trauma in Khaled Hosseini’s “The Kite Runner”
  • Exploitation Themes in Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle”
  • Steinbeck’s Critique of Capitalism in “Grapes of Wrath”
  • Illusion and Reality in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Cultural Collision in Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”
  • Decoding Ecofeminism in Barbara Kingsolver’s “Prodigal Summer”
  • The Symbolism of the Mississippi River in Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Questioning Morality in Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”
  • Loss and Regret in Ian McEwan’s “Atonement”
  • Feminist Undertones in Virginia Woolf’s “To the Lighthouse”
  • Violence and Rebellion in Anthony Burgess’s “A Clockwork Orange”
  • Exploring Oppression in George Orwell’s “1984”
  • Unveiling Transcendentalism in Thoreau’s “Walden”
  • Interpreting Paradox in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland”
  • Understanding Antiheroes in Bret Easton Ellis’s “American Psycho”
  • Power Dynamics in William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”

Literature Research Topics for High School

  • Tracing Gothic Themes in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
  • Unmasking Symbolism: Interpreting Imagery in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Exploring the Concept of Heroism in J.R.R Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings”
  • Feminist Perspectives in Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre”
  • Satirical Elements in Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Dystopian Societies: A Comparative Study of George Orwell’s “1984” and Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
  • Postmodernist Techniques in Kurt Vonnegut’s “Slaughterhouse-Five”
  • Southern Gothic and Memory in William Faulkner’s “A Rose for Emily”
  • Cultural Displacement and Identity in Amy Tan’s “The Joy Luck Club”
  • Manifestations of the American Dream in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Interpretation of Dreams and Reality in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland”
  • Analysis of Autobiographical Elements in Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”
  • Divergent Perspectives of Time in Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway”
  • Intersection of Art and Life in Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray”
  • Native American Mythology in Louise Erdrich’s “Tracks”
  • Human Morality and Ethics in Albert Camus’ “The Stranger”
  • Parallels Between War and Chess in Stefan Zweig’s “The Royal Game”
  • Cross-Cultural Relationships in Jhumpa Lahiri’s “The Namesake”
  • Stream of Consciousness Technique in James Joyce’s “Ulysses”
  • Understanding Death Through Emily Dickinson’s Poetry

Literature Research Topics for College Students

  • Examination of Heroic Archetypes in Homer’s “Odyssey”
  • Exploring Cultural Identity in Jhumpa Lahiri’s “The Namesake”
  • Decoding Magical Realism in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • Inquiries Into the Absurd in Albert Camus’s “The Stranger”
  • Dissection of Class Conflict in Charles Dickens’s “Hard Times”
  • Understanding Transcendentalism through Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Essays
  • Manifestations of Fate and Destiny in Thomas Hardy’s “Tess of the D’Urbervilles”
  • Delineation of Feminine Strength in Jane Austen’s “Persuasion”
  • Satire as a Societal Mirror in Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”
  • Unveiling Symbolism in Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Assessment of Postmodern Elements in Thomas Pynchon’s “The Crying of Lot 49”
  • Dissecting Racism in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Extrapolating Environmental Themes from Ernest Callenbach’s “Ecotopia”
  • Demystifying Magic Realism in Salman Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children”
  • Journey Motif in J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”
  • Analyzing Dual Personalities in Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”
  • Tragic Love in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”
  • Portraying Madness in Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper”
  • Uncovering Utopian Ideas in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm”

Literature Research Topics for University

  • Decoding Stream of Consciousness Technique in Virginia Woolf’s “To The Lighthouse”
  • Assessment of Existentialism in Jean-Paul Sartre’s “Nausea”
  • Deconstruction of Racism in Toni Morrison’s “Beloved”
  • Investigating Trauma in Tim O’Brien’s “The Things They Carried”
  • Dissection of Consumerism in Bret Easton Ellis’s “American Psycho”
  • Examining Gender Norms in Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women”
  • Inquiry Into Surrealism in Haruki Murakami’s “Kafka on the Shore”
  • Tracing Familial Ties in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • Interrogating Nihilism in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Notes from Underground”
  • Exploration of Spirituality in Hermann Hesse’s “Siddhartha”
  • Deconstructing Masculinity in Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises”
  • Deciphering Nature Imagery in William Wordsworth’s Poetry
  • Delineation of Social Status in Edith Wharton’s “The Age of Innocence”
  • Analysis of Post-Colonial Themes in Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”
  • Investigation of War Commentary in Joseph Heller’s “Catch-22”
  • Exploration of Existential Crisis in Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”
  • Dissecting Rebellion in George Orwell’s “1984”
  • Examination of Love and Loss in John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars”
  • Tragic Themes in Sophocles’s “Oedipus Rex”
  • Unveiling Modernism in James Joyce’s “Ulysses”

Literature Research Topics for Master’s and Ph.D.

  • Cultural Displacement Analysis in Salman Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children”
  • Nietzschean Perspectives in Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”
  • Autobiographical Influence in Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar”
  • Subversion of Gender Norms in Virginia Woolf’s “Orlando”
  • Psychoanalytic Reading of Edgar Allan Poe’s Short Stories
  • Investigation Into Metafiction in Italo Calvino’s “If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler”
  • Identity Negotiations in James Baldwin’s “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
  • Sartrean Existentialism in Albert Camus’s “The Stranger”
  • Deconstruction of Colonial Narratives in J.M Coetzee’s “Waiting for the Barbarians”
  • Utopian Idealism in Thomas More’s “Utopia”
  • Questioning Morality in Kazuo Ishiguro’s “Never Let Me Go”
  • Feminist Readings of Simone de Beauvoir’s “The Second Sex”
  • Analysis of Symbolism in William Faulkner’s “The Sound and the Fury”
  • Investigation of Absurdism in Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”
  • Dissecting Magical Realism in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude”
  • Tracing Mythological Allusions in Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy”
  • Comparative Study of Tragic Heroes in Shakespeare’s Tragedies
  • Exploration of Trauma in Art Spiegelman’s “Maus”
  • Conceptions of the Self in Marcel Proust’s “In Search of Lost Time”
  • Analyzing Paradox in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland”

English Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Cultural Criticism in Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales”
  • Deconstructionist Readings of John Milton’s “Paradise Lost”
  • Analyzing Gender Dynamics in Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights”
  • Colonial Discourse in Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness”
  • Comparative Study: Shakespeare’s Comedies vs. Tragedies
  • Psychoanalytical Interpretation of Characters in D.H. Lawrence’s “Sons and Lovers”
  • Religious Allusions in George Herbert’s Poetry
  • Depiction of Victorian Society in Thomas Hardy’s “Tess of the D’Urbervilles”
  • Exploration of Feminist Themes in George Eliot’s “Middlemarch”
  • Romanticism and the Sublime in William Wordsworth’s Poetry
  • Subversion of Gothic Conventions in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
  • Satirical Elements in Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”
  • Examining Narrative Structure in Laurence Sterne’s “Tristram Shandy”
  • Critiquing Imperialism in Rudyard Kipling’s “Kim”
  • Identity Politics in Zadie Smith’s “White Teeth”
  • Analyzing Trauma in Pat Barker’s “Regeneration”
  • Metaphysical Elements in John Donne’s Poetry
  • Modernism and Stream of Consciousness in Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway”
  • Inquiry Into Postmodernism in Salman Rushdie’s “The Satanic Verses”

World Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Comparative Analysis of Magical Realism in Gabriel García Márquez’s Work “One Hundred Years of Solitude” and Salman Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children”
  • The Interplay of Irony and Satire in Voltaire’s “Candide”: An In-Depth Study
  • Existentialism in Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment”: A Philosophical Inquiry
  • Politics of Gender in Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”
  • Power of Storytelling in “Arabian Nights”: A Narrative Examination
  • Tragic Elements in Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex”: A Dramatic Analysis
  • Influence of Historical Context in Dante’s “The Divine Comedy”
  • Modernist Themes in James Joyce’s “Ulysses”: An In-Depth Analysis
  • Postcolonial Perspectives in J. M. Coetzee’s “Disgrace”
  • Examination of Symbolism in Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”
  • Unraveling Surrealism in Federico García Lorca’s “Blood Wedding”
  • Quest for Identity in Wole Soyinka’s “Death and the King’s Horseman”
  • Peculiarities of Bildungsroman in Thomas Mann’s “The Magic Mountain”
  • Melodrama and Sentimentality in Leo Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina”
  • Postmodern Techniques in Italo Calvino’s “Invisible Cities”
  • Religious Motifs in Yukio Mishima’s “The Temple of the Golden Pavilion”
  • Deconstruction of the Hero Archetype in “Beowulf”: An Analytical Study
  • Decoding Mythology in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “Love in the Time of Cholera”
  • Gothic Elements in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • Semiotics of War in “The Iliad” by Homer: A Deeper Look

American Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter”: A Deeper Understanding
  • Modernist Elements in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Decoding the Racial Landscape in Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Examination of the Feminine Voice in Kate Chopin’s “The Awakening”
  • Nature and Wilderness in Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden”: A Thorough Analysis
  • Existential Themes in Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea”
  • Gothic Tropes in Edgar Allan Poe’s Short Stories: An Analytical Approach
  • Subversion of Romantic Ideals in Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick”
  • Postmodern Experimentation in Thomas Pynchon’s “The Crying of Lot 49”
  • Humanism and Individualism in Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass”: A Comprehensive Study
  • Interrogating Social Issues in John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath”
  • Absurdity and Alienation in Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire”
  • Motifs of Feminism in Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar”
  • Unraveling Magical Realism in Toni Morrison’s “Beloved”
  • Tracing Violence and American Dream in Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian”
  • Discourses of Power in Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible”
  • Investigating Racism and Injustice in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Exploration of Gender and Class in Edith Wharton’s “The House of Mirth”
  • Southern Gothic Elements in William Faulkner’s “A Rose for Emily”

Early American Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Revisiting Puritan Ideology in John Winthrop’s “A Model of Christian Charity”
  • Interrogating Witchcraft in Cotton Mather’s “Wonders of the Invisible World”
  • Colonial Discourse in John Smith’s “A Description of New England”
  • Unearthing Abolitionist Rhetoric in Phillis Wheatley’s “Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral”
  • Narrative Structures in Mary Rowlandson’s “The Sovereignty and Goodness of God”
  • The Dichotomy of Faith and Reason in Jonathan Edwards’ Work “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God”
  • Tales of Captivity: An Analysis of Olaudah Equiano’s “The Interesting Narrative”
  • Puritan Ethics in Anne Bradstreet’s “To My Dear and Loving Husband”
  • Exploration of Moralism and Feminism in “Charlotte Temple” by Susanna Rowson
  • Sentimentality and Revolution in Hannah Webster Foster’s “The Coquette”
  • Mourning and Memorial in Edward Taylor’s “Preparatory Meditations”
  • Decoding the Political in Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense”
  • Unraveling Utopia in Francis Bacon’s “New Atlantis”
  • Intersections of Religion and Ecology in William Bartram’s “Travels”
  • Slavery and Autobiography in “The History of Mary Prince”
  • Examining Native Representation in James Fenimore Cooper’s “The Last of the Mohicans”
  • Investigation of Transcendentalism in Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Self-Reliance”
  • Deconstruction of Gothic in Charles Brockden Brown’s “Wieland”
  • Manifest Destiny and Conquest in Washington Irving’s “A Tour on the Prairies”
  • The Interplay of Autobiography and Identity in Benjamin Franklin’s “The Autobiography”

Modernist Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Stream of Consciousness Portrayal in Virginia Woolf’s “To the Lighthouse”
  • Decoding Symbolism in T. S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land”
  • Mythical Allusions in James Joyce’s “Ulysses”
  • Questioning Identity in Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”
  • Exploration of Absurdism in Albert Camus’ “The Stranger”
  • Unraveling Dystopia in George Orwell’s “1984”
  • War Imagery in Ernest Hemingway’s “A Farewell to Arms”
  • Discourses of Power in Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World”
  • Interrogating Alienation in Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis”
  • Confronting Colonialism in Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness”
  • Critique of Consumerism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Religious Symbolism in William Faulkner’s “As I Lay Dying”
  • Time and Memory in Marcel Proust’s “In Search of Lost Time”
  • Revisiting Surrealism in André Breton’s “Manifestoes of Surrealism”
  • Constructing Feminine Voice in Djuna Barnes’ “Nightwood”
  • Melancholia and Desire in Thomas Mann’s “Death in Venice”
  • Tracing Revolution in John Dos Passos’ “The 42nd Parallel”
  • Racial Tensions in Richard Wright’s “Native Son”
  • Examination of Silence in Eugene O’Neill’s “Long Day’s Journey Into Night”

Renaissance Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Interrogating Love in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”
  • Humanism in Thomas More’s “Utopia”
  • Religious Symbolism in John Donne’s “Holy Sonnets”
  • Examining Power in Christopher Marlowe’s “Doctor Faustus”
  • Quest for Knowledge in Francis Bacon’s “The Advancement of Learning”
  • Nature and Desire in Andrew Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress”
  • Comparative Analysis of Metaphysical Poetry: John Donne and George Herbert
  • Petrarchan Influence in Edmund Spenser’s “The Faerie Queene”
  • Tragedy and Revenge in Thomas Kyd’s “The Spanish Tragedy”
  • Decoding Allegory in John Bunyan’s “The Pilgrim’s Progress”
  • Courtly Love in Sir Thomas Malory’s “Le Morte d’Arthur”
  • Exploration of Colonial Discourse in Richard Hakluyt’s “The Principal Navigations”
  • Interrogating Femininity in Aphra Behn’s “Oroonoko”
  • Carnival and Power in Rabelais’ “Gargantua and Pantagruel”
  • Satirical Elements in Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal”
  • Renaissance Humanism in Pico della Mirandola’s “Oration on the Dignity of Man”
  • Political Machinations in Niccolò Machiavelli’s “The Prince”
  • Deciphering Madness in Robert Burton’s “The Anatomy of Melancholy”
  • Rhetoric and Persuasion in Thomas Hobbes’ “Leviathan”
  • Imagery and Metaphor in Sir Philip Sidney’s “Astrophil and Stella”

Literature Review Research Paper Topics

  • Synthesis of Feminism in Contemporary Women’s Literature
  • Historical Contexts of Postcolonial Literature: A Critical Examination
  • Deconstruction in Postmodern Literature: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • Comparative Review of Magical Realism in Latin American Literature
  • Understanding Trauma Narratives in Holocaust Literature
  • Unveiling Dystopia in Contemporary Young Adult Fiction
  • Identity Politics in Post-Apartheid South African Literature
  • Power Dynamics in Dystopian Science Fiction Literature
  • Dialogues of Ecocriticism in Environmental Literature
  • Subversion of Narrative Structures in Experimental Literature
  • Poe’s Gothic Tradition: An Analysis Across Multiple Works
  • Discourse of Mental Illness in Modernist Literature
  • Comparative Analysis of Existentialism in European Literature
  • Review of Cyberpunk Tropes in Contemporary Literature
  • Revisiting Chivalry in Medieval Arthurian Literature
  • Metamodernism in 21 st -Century Literature: A Critical Review
  • Investigation of Spiritualism in Transcendentalist Literature
  • Tracking Satire in 18 th -Century British Literature
  • Review of Queer Themes in LGBT+ Literature
  • Understanding Cultural Hybridity in Diasporic Literature

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

314 education research paper topics & special ideas, 256 lgbtq+ research topics & paper ideas.

american literature topics for research paper

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 in 2023

image

Table of contents

  • 1 What is Literature Research?
  • 2 Tips on How to Select the Best Literature Research Paper Topic?
  • 3 Literary Research Topics for High School
  • 4 Literature Research Paper Topics for College Students
  • 5 Literacy Research Topics for Debate
  • 6 British Literary Research Topics
  • 7 American Literature Research Topics
  • 8 World Literature Research Paper Topics
  • 9 Modernist Literature Research Paper Topics

What is Literature Research?

Before choosing topics in literature, clarify the concept of literature research to understand the main purpose, structure, and features of writing this type of task.

Firstly, the student must consider the vision of the author of the work, the interpretation of his images, and their personification as the protagonists of the issues on the agenda of that time.

Next, the stylistic and semantic features of the work should be analyzed. Rhythm, speech style, and symbolic and compositional features are often difficult for inexperienced students. We recommend to buy literature review online to be sure of its quality, to get a high score, and have a sample for the future.

After that, the student must give his assessment of the text. Express your opinion about the main events in the book, their significance, and their impact on the further development of the plot.

Tips on How to Select the Best Literature Research Paper Topic?

After reading a text, you often get overwhelmed with impressions and thoughts and need help choosing literature topics for research papers. That is why we offer the following plan for students to select the best literature research topics for their paper:

Abstract from the main idea of the work and try to find topics that are not obvious at first glance. This advice will be especially useful for older students who, in addition to technically correct paper writing, want to stand out from their peers. This question often arises when writing dissertations or theses. If you thought: “How to write a good literature review for a dissertation with an engaging topic?” keep reading.

Select 3-4 topics that seem most interesting literature topics to you. Writing top research papers often takes several weeks. So make sure that during the whole time, you will desire to return to this task.

Choose a topic in which you will feel confident. Each of us has stronger and weaker areas of knowledge. Use your advantage and choose a topic you will understand better than others.

Literary Research Topics for High School

If you are a high school or university student and need to complete an assignment but still don’t know how to do it or lack time, we recommend you to buy college research paper from professionals to stay on the safe side. And for those, who want to see literature topics for research paper examples, we’ve listed 10 of them below:

  • Self-Sacrifice as a Manifestation of Cowardice or Courage: Examples in Medieval Ballads
  • Social Identity in Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes: the Madness of the Main Character as a Prototype of Humanistic Views
  • The Plot of “Painful Love” in William Shakespeare Plays as an Example of an Ideal Experience of Feelings
  • Lady Macbeth and Its Historical Prototype: Similarities and Differences
  • The Image of the Catholic Church in Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy”
  • Why are Hemingway’s Works Still Important for the Development of Modern Society?
  • How Aztec Mythology Influenced the Literary Customs of American Prose
  • Contribution of African Americans to the Image of the “White Invader” in Books of the 20th and 21st Centuries
  • Viking Beliefs and their Echoes in European Literature: Examples from Renaissance Literature
  • Is it Possible to Create a Universal Artificial Language? How will it Affect Literature?

Literature Research Paper Topics for College Students

Students need to stand out from their groups when studying in college with unique and engaging papers. If you want to impress your classmates and teacher with an outstanding paper, check the list of these exciting literature topics.

  • How do Authors Describe Madness in Literature?
  • Victorian Literature and Its Peculiarities: Structural, Compositional and Stylistic Features
  • The Contribution of the Arabic Verse System to World Poetics: Beyts, Rudakis, Rubai Poems
  • Protagonists Character Analysis of Moliere’s Play “The Nobleman”: the Main Features Inherent in the Heroes of Classical Works
  • The History of the Development of Speech and its Influence on the Works of Renaissance Authors
  • The Influence of the Catholic Church on Literature and Writing in the Middle Ages
  • Indian Literature Discuss – Structural and Compositional Design of Works, Stylistic Features and Metaphorical Images
  • West VS East: Comparative Description of the Main Characters’ System of Images & Behavior Patterns Using Examples of Modern Works (Optional)
  • The Policy of Imperialism and its Influence on Literary Variability in the Countries of North America
  • The Main Challenges in Studying Literary Discourse for Students. How to Deal with Them? Personal View

If you are struggling to come up with good literature research paper topics, PapersOwl can do a literature review for you and help you come up with ideas and new information. Our team of expert writers will research and find the most relevant topics and provide you with research material to get you going.

Literacy Research Topics for Debate

It is hard to find essay topics when everything is analyzed and researched many times. Moreover, students must remember that they should develop their literature to discuss subjects from the beginning of the introduction till the very last word of conclusion of research paper . We’ve prepared a list of engaging for the audience and interesting to explore for you literary topics for research papers.

  • Religion and Literature – Exploring the Similarity and Differences
  • Psychology and Literature. Do Authors of Psychology Books Aim to Help Society? Is it a Financial Plan?
  • War and Peace – Ideas of Hedonism even During Dark Times or Idealization of Violence by Giving Humanity to the Main Characters?
  • Screen Adaptations VS Printed Books: Eternal Confrontation of Preferences or Rejection of Modern Reality?
  • The Role of the Theory of Literary Studies in Applied Approaches to the Study and Processing of Medieval Novels
  • Can Ancient Writings on Tablets, Cave Walls or Papyrus be Considered Ancestors of Modern Literature? For and Against
  • The Culture of Mass Consumption and its Influence on Reducing the Circulation Interval of Books: is there a Direct Connection?
  • Postmodern Poetics: Main Rules and Canons. Do they Exist?
  • Can Prose Compete with Poetics in Lyricism: Examples of Francesco Petrarca Works
  • Do Mythological Knowledge and Ancient Legends Influence Modern Literature? Proving by Examples.

British Literary Research Topics

English literature has a great variety of themes to explore. That is why it is confusing for many students to come up with interesting British literary research topics. Thus, our team offers you unique and engaging English literature research paper ideas which you can use directly for writing or inspiration:

  • Ancient Literature in Britain: Connection and Influence of the Roman Literary Canon
  • Literature of the Knights Templar: Myth or Truth?
  • British Literature During the Reign of King Henry VIII: How was the Change of Religion Reflected in Literature?
  • Dirk Bogard – Biography and Contribution to the Literary Heritage of the United Kingdom
  • William Shakespeare’s Tragedies as a Consequence of the Era or the Playwright’s Misogynistic Views?
  • British Nobel Laureate in Literature: Rudyard Kipling. Author’s Creative Path and Outstanding Works
  • “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde as the Legalization of the “Low” Desires of Mankind
  • Byronism and its Influence on George Byron’s European Contemporaries-Colleagues
  • Why were Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Plays and Poems Overshadowed by his Detective Novels?
  • European Realistic Novel. The role of Daniel Dafoe in the Creation of this Genre.
  • Free unlimited checks
  • All common file formats
  • Accurate results
  • Intuitive interface

American Literature Research Topics

Often, teachers ask students to research a particular piece of American literature. This is a tricky task because a huge number of different directions, currents, and authors might seem confusing. Our team has prepared the top 10 American literature research paper topics that you can use to write an essay that will impress your teacher.

  • The Role of African American Literature Pieces in Modern Written Heritage
  • Early American Literature. Was there a Literature Culture among the Native Peoples of America?
  • The Uniqueness of the American Literary Style in the World Picture of Literary Heritage
  • Regional Features of the Use of Stylistic Means in the USA
  • Benjamin Franklin and his Address to the European Theme: Analysis of a Selected Piece
  • Rhetorical Heritage of the Puritans and its use in Works Based on the “Founding Myths of the United States”
  • The American Renaissance: What New Appeared in the Literature of American Authors in this Period?
  • Feminist Influence on the Number of Women Writers in Contemporary American Literature
  • Top 10 Masterpieces of American Literature that Never Became World Famous
  • The Influence of Printed Media on American Literature in the 80s of the Last Century.

World Literature Research Paper Topics

Choosing one subject of interest from world literature is the same as finding a perfectly-shaped grain of sand on the beach. We’ve selected the best ideas for your literary research paper to simplify your life.

  • The Spirit of Duende in Spanish-Language Literature
  • Postindependence Indian Literature – Comparative Characteristics with the Past
  • Influence of Japanese Literature on Modern Asian and European Literature
  • Western Literature in Comparison to Eastern Literature: Analysis of the Main Ideological Values and their Implementation in Plots
  • Social Stratification and Self-Identification of Indian people on the Example of the Novel “Shantaram” by Gregory David Roberts
  • Contemporary Literature of Mexico: Main Features Borrowed from American Literature
  • Highlighting the Problem of Violence in the Works of Modern Authors in American Literature
  • Why Mass Literature Displaces “Underground” Authors: Can We Stop this Process?
  • Literary Discourse of the Arab World: the Influence of Poetics on Prose
  • Agatha Christie and the Murder on the Orient Express: Was Hercule Poirot Contused rather than Genious?

Modernist Literature Research Paper Topics

The era of modernism affected every sphere of human life: the political organization of countries, changes in labor law, music, visual arts, and literature. This period is one of the most confusing and, at the same time, the most intriguing in the field of literature. That is why our team has prepared for students the 10 best research topics of the modernist era.

  • Tiffany Style: Detailed Overview of Features and Specific Details
  • Liberty Style in Italy: Theoretical Aspect of Emergence
  • P. Ranson and the Art Nouveau Style: Compositional Characteristics of Novels
  • “Stream of Consciousness” and the Depiction of New Forms of the Human Psyche by Modernists
  • Universalization of Artistic Techniques in the P.Bonner Works
  • “Jugend-Shtil”: Special Details of Trivial Everyday Life
  • “Philosophy of Order” in the Utopian Idea of the Way of Life in American Literature
  • Research the Subject’s Internal Individual Freedom at a Deeper Level of his Internal Isolation
  • Advantage of Creative Intuition over Classical Canons: Contemporary American Literature
  • Metalanguage and Myth-Making: Creation of a New Genre in Literature

Looking for interesting literature research paper topics? Look no further! If you’re having trouble finding inspiring ideas for your paper, PapersOwl writing service can provide you with the help you need. With its vast database of resources and experienced writers, PapersOwl can offer fresh and innovative topics to make your paper stand out.

All in all, literature discussion papers are challenging for many students. You need to dive into a text, analyze all its peculiarities, and give your own opinion. We hope our study research topics will simplify your task and will come in handy. Just remember to select the topic you are interested in and, of course, use our tips to write an outstanding paper. Good luck!

Readers also enjoyed

Legal Essay Topics for Student

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

american literature topics for research paper

My Paper Done

  • Services Paper editing services Paper proofreading Business papers Philosophy papers Write my paper Term papers for sale Term paper help Academic term papers Buy research papers College writing services Paper writing help Student papers Original term papers Research paper help Nursing papers for sale Psychology papers Economics papers Medical papers Blog

american literature topics for research paper

75 Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas For You!

Literature Research Paper Topic

Through the exceptional examples we intent on sharing below, you will know how to stay on topic writing a research literature paper with ease. Stay with me.

English British Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas

  • A review of the character of Lady Macbeth in the works of William Shakespeare
  • Typical characters dominant in World War 1 and II books
  • How did Charles Dickens picture Victorian England in his works?
  • How Greek and Roman influenced Western literature
  • The role of the three Medieval Centuries of Literature in Britain
  • The construction of social identity through British English literature
  • How the natural world is represented in English British literature
  • Discuss the Anglo-Saxon oral poet myth

What is a Good Research Paper Topic For Early American Literature?

  • Major historical characters during the colonial period in America
  • How the revolutionary period of 1765 to 1789 defines freedom for America
  • The role of James Fennimore Cooper in enhancing nationalism
  • Moral ambiguity lessons during the American renaissance period
  • African Influence and Realism in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s book
  • Social perception of contemporary American literature
  • The place of women in early American literature
  • Historical and cultural considerations of early American literature

Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas For High School

  • Discuss why ‘Harry Potter’ is still dominant
  • What is the difference between Utopian and dystopian literature?
  • How to distinguish fan fiction from other genres of literature
  • The significant contributions of the works of Shakespeare
  • Describe how literature enhances male chauvinism
  • Why are sex and romance the most read genre in literature?
  • The pros and cons of literature to society
  • How religion coincides with literature

Literature Research Paper Topics For University Degree Students

  • The impact of digitization on the dissemination and consumption of literature material
  • Interrelations and patterns existing between fables and human stories
  • The role of reading behaviors on the growth of literature
  • The shared elements of oral and written literature
  • How to make literature more interactive and human-centered
  • Evaluating the challenges facing the publishing industry
  • The impact of digital media on old literary forms
  • Is it possible to attain intellectually oriented people through reading?

Latest British Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Pertinent issues lacking in the British literature
  • Myths and facts on the gender issue in British literary materials
  • Why some books are considered literary classics?
  • A view of men in the works of William Shakespeare
  • What is the reception of modern literary works in Britain?
  • The theme of destiny and free will in the works of William Shakespeare
  • How the Victorian period impacted British literature
  • The variation between love presented in the books and the physical

Argumentative American Literature Research Paper Topics

  • Can books portray a fake reality from that which exists?
  • Are there realistic features in fiction stories?
  • Can the media complement the existing literary materials effectively?
  • Is the American literature a catalyst of violence
  • Are book reviews able to be without bias?
  • Is human dependence on technology harmful to print materials?
  • Has the coronavirus lockdown had an impact on American literature?
  • Is the government to blame for poor reading habits among citizens?

Hot Literature Topics For Research Paper

  • How are poets coping in the innovative era?
  • Which novels have withstood the test of time to now, and why?
  • Are countries losing their cultures as a result of ignoring literature?
  • Latest forms of copyright in the technology era
  • How racism is portrayed in novels in the 21st century
  • What is the place of literature in shaping a society’s morals?
  • How does culture affect literature in the American context?
  • An examination of how religion and literature collide

Controversial Literature Research Paper Topics

  • How to handle the topic of abortion in literature
  • Is literature promoting old cultural values that have been overtaken by events?
  • An analysis of the portrayal of sex in literary materials
  • Were Romeo and Juliet a mere fantasy story?
  • How far is too far for comedy in oral literature?
  • Feminism issues raised in the existing literary materials
  • The portrayal of ethnicity through literature
  • Who should censor literary materials used by students?

World Literature Research Paper Topics

  • The relationship between old and contemporary American literature
  • What role does gender play in any form of literature?
  • Compare and contrast the American and British works of the middle and early ages
  • The role of the works of Muslim philosophers to new inventions
  • How have publication intervals fallen out of fashion?
  • Distinguish between performance and narration in literature
  • The role of the supernatural and spirituality in literature
  • Why cultural values differentiate different works

High-Quality Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas

  • The role of female writers in the literature
  • Why do individual books get banned?
  • Problems facing the practical study of literature
  • The use of images in written literature
  • Early modern American works
  • Cross-cultural literary books
  • Functions of literature
  • Central themes in early British literature

Many students find writing a research paper challenging. Do not feel disappointed if you didn’t find a topic of your choice. You can still try our research paper writing services to get an affordable, customized literature research paper. You can still seek assistance from our writing help from experts on any section of your research paper today. Give it a try. Contact us with a “ do my research paper ” request and get a top grade. 

theology research paper topics

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.

Terms & Conditions Loyalty Program Privacy Policy Money-Back Policy

Copyright © 2013-2024 MyPaperDone.com

  • Paper writing help
  • Buy an Essay
  • Pay for essay
  • Buy Research Paper
  • Write My Research Paper
  • Research Paper Help
  • Custom Research Paper
  • Custom Dissertation
  • Dissertation Help
  • Buy Dissertation
  • Dissertation Writer
  • Write my Dissertation
  • How it works

Top 150 Literature Research Paper Topics For A Brilliant Essay

Choosing the best literature research paper topic is not an easy task for many learners. In case you are looking for some tips on how to choose a perfect topic for your essay, this post is right for you. Discover the hottest prompts on picking up the best topic for your academic paper, as well as explore the most popular ideas for creating an essay on literature.

How To Choose The Literary Topic For An Essay

There are several ways on how to pick up an idea for a successful academic paper. Feel free to choose the most fitting alternative from the list below.

  • Select a literature style as a topic for your paper. This is one of the most common ways to pick up an idea for your essay. You will need to determine the basic features of a chosen literature style, choose the masterpieces you are going to describe, and classify the literature works. However, it might be a bit difficult since there are many controversial literature examples that are not easy to analyze.
  • Choose an author as a topic for your academic paper. This way, you will describe the main ideas, concepts, and innovations created by a particular writer, as well as the impact of this personality on literature as a whole. Still, avoid turning your research paper into a biography.
  • Pick up a certain book as an essay topic. It is a good idea but it might appear to be difficult to add something new to the chosen field.

Top Literature Research Topics: Heroes And Characters

Many students believe that it is easier to write an essay about a certain person or character rather than a particular trend in literature. By the way, creating an academic paper about a hero requires being precise and sticking to the chosen topic.

  • Oedipus: An Essay Outline
  • The Tragic Hero In The World Literature
  • Reflection On Hamlet
  • Emma By Jane Austen: The Destiny Of The Main Heroine
  • The Bright Personality Of The Old Man And The Sea
  • The Classic Hero In Literature
  • The Features Of The Epic Hero
  • The Willing And Unwilling Heroes: The Main Differences
  • The Basic Concepts Of The Antihero
  • Stylistic Devices And Rhetorical Strategies In Literature
  • Beowulf: An Example Of The Scandinavian Hero
  • Pierre Beaumarchais: Figaro
  • For Whom the Bell Tolls: The Character of Robert Jordan
  • Abraham van Helsing from Dracula by Bram Stoker
  • Atticus Finch from To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Wilhelm Tell by Friedrich Schiller: The Legend
  • The Character Of Heathcliff From Wuthering Heights
  • Alice From The Alice In Wonderland
  • The Three Musketeers
  • King Arthur
  • Sherlock Holmes
  • Romeo And Juliet
  • Harry Potter
  • Sinbad The Sailor
  • Don Quixote

Literature Topics For Research Papers: Women In Literature

The role of women in society has been changing over time. The topics below will help you understand the basic issues a common woman faced in different centuries, as well as discover the most impressive literature masterpieces created by female writers.

  • The Aged Mother: Criticism Essay
  • The Story Of An Hour By Kate Chopin: Response Paper
  • La Estrategia De Chochueca by Rita Indiana Hernández: The Summary
  • Women And Children In Modern Literature
  • The Pride and Prejudice By Jane Austen
  • Charlotte Bronte And Her Role In The World History
  • J.K.Rowling As A Bright Example Of A Successful Female Writer
  • Harper Lee: To Kill A Mockingbird Summary
  • The Stories Of Virginia Woolf
  • Inspiring Female Writers And The Lessons They Teach Us
  • Gender Roles In Literature

The World Literature Research Paper Topics

There is nothing new that world literature research topics remain popular among students for years. These topics allow you to improve the knowledge of the global trends in literature, discover the masterpieces of the world literature, and understand the cultural processes in various countries in different centuries.

  • Barn Burning By William Faulkner: Loyalty And Blood Themes
  • Cliches In The Modern Literature
  • Critical Issues In Literature
  • The Social Issues In The Literature Of 20th Century
  • Modern Trends In Literature
  • The Difference Of Literature In Various Countries
  • The Influence Of Literature On The Society
  • Masterpieces In The Literature Of 18th Century
  • Masterpieces In The Literature Of 19h Century
  • Masterpieces In The Literature Of 20th Century
  • Reading Literature As A Modern Way Of Self-education
  • Greek Mythology And Its Role In The World Literature
  • The Impact Of Literature On Modern Culture
  • Literature Periods
  • The Role Of Comedies In The World Literature
  • The Role Of Tragedies In The World Literature
  • Psychological Trends In World Literature
  • Politics In The World Literature
  • Romance In Literature

The Best Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Literary analysis is one of the most common solutions for choosing easy-to-write research paper topics. The fact is that analysis is one of the inevitable steps of understanding the basic concepts of literature. Therefore, the analysis topics might become a perfect option for beginners in the world of literature. Moreover, you don’t need to be exceptionally creative when composing essays on analysis.

  • Car Crash While Hitchhiking: The Analysis Of The Literary Fiction Story
  • The Ethics Of Belief by Clifford: An Advanced Summary And Analysis
  • The Lesson By Toni Cade Bambara: Analysis And Summary
  • An Advanced Analysis Of Tree And Culinary Lesson
  • Mcwp 6-11 Leading Marines: The Analysis
  • My Native Land, My Home by Claude Mckay: In-Depth Analysis
  • Analysis Of Salvation By Langston Hughes
  • Preventive Corrective And Detective Controls
  • A Black Man Talks Of Reaping Analysis
  • Servant Leadership And Diverse Context
  • The Impact Of Literature Nowadays

Satire Topics Ideas For A Successful Essay

Satire has been the main trend in literature for years. But how did it change over time? What is the difference between satire and irony? What are the satire’s basic features? Writing an essay on these topics might be an excellent idea.

  • Ancient And Modern Satire
  • Trends In The Modern Satire
  • Literature Techniques In Writing Satire
  • Satires Of Rome
  • Satires Of Ancient Greece
  • Satire In Political Poems
  • Satire And Comedy: Common Features And Differences
  • English Satire
  • Satire In The 18th Century
  • Satire In The 19th Century
  • Shakespeare's Satire
  • World Famous Satirists
  • The Difference Between Anecdotes And Satire
  • The Motivation Of Satirists
  • Satire And History
  • Satire And Irony: The Main Differences
  • Humor And Satire In The Modern Literature
  • The Origins Of Satire
  • Radicalism And Satire
  • Black Humor And Satire

Controversial Topics In Literature Of All Times

In case you are looking for something contradictory to write about, the controversial literary research paper topic might be a nice option for your needs. The conflict of generations, formalism, and Franz Kafka are no longer the only alternatives to write about.

  • Is Modern Youth More Self Centred Than The Other Generations
  • Common Theme Between Xla And Faat Kine
  • Franz Kafka And His Role In The Literature
  • Formalism In Literature
  • Structuralism In Literature
  • The Parents And Children In Literature
  • Documentary In Literature
  • War And Peace Topics
  • The Role Of Family In The Modern Literature
  • The Conflict Of Generations

Western Literature Topics For A Brilliant Research Paper

Western literature holds a special place in the history of world literature. Wars, conflicts, riots, totalitarianism, technical progress, and other topics are all common for western literature.

  • Witches Loaves By O'Henry: The Lessons The Story Teach Us
  • Ernest Hemingway And The “Lost Generation”
  • Mark Twain And His Most Brilliant Characters
  • Welsh Literature
  • Latin American Literature Masterpieces
  • Oscar Wilde And His Impact On Literature
  • Trends In Celtic Literature
  • Trends In Icelandic Literature
  • American Dream In Literature
  • Death In Western Literature
  • Identity In Literature
  • Imperialism In Literature
  • Race Issues In Literature
  • Travel In Western Literature
  • Utopian Literature

Most Popular European Literature Topics

The literature of the Renaissance and the Middle Ages has lots of masterpieces many students admire. The development of the culture can be also easily studied by creating an essay on the European literature research paper topic.

  • The Use Of Setting And Atmosphere In Dracula By B Stoker
  • Theme Of Power In Othello By William Shakespeare
  • French Literature
  • German Literature
  • Spanish Literature
  • Finnish Modern Literature
  • Danish Modern Literature
  • Polish Modern Literature
  • Latvian Modern Literature
  • Renaissance Literature
  • Medieval Literature
  • Realism And Symbolism Trends
  • Political Poems And The Role In The World History
  • Postmodernism Trends
  • Latin Literature Trends
  • The literature of the 17th century

Eastern Literature Research Paper Topics For Diligent College Students

Eastern literature covers lots of periods and countries. You can write about Japan, China, Egypt, Ancient East, or Mesopotamia, as well as explore the cultural trends in different countries.

  • Turkish Literature
  • Arabic Literature
  • Sanskrit Literature
  • Famous Arabic Poets
  • Persian Literature
  • The Main Trends In Modern Chinese Literature
  • The Main Trends In Modern Japanese Literature
  • Confucianism
  • Famous Chinese Fiction
  • The Topic Of Death In Eastern Literature
  • The Topic Of Honor In The Eastern Literature
  • The Issues In The Eastern Literature
  • Saint Pachomius
  • Khalil Gibran
  • Anthony Of Egypt
  • Philosophy In Ancient Chinese Literature
  • Metaphor In Japanese Literature
  • Masculinity In Arab Literature
  • War In Persian Literature
  • Wisdom In Eastern Literature

How To Create A Brilliant Paper On Literature Topic

Choosing a suitable and easy-to-write topic for your essay is only half of the job you need to do. The most challenging thing is to create a concise, precise, fresh, and understandable academic paper with no mistakes. So, here is what you need to do to get the highest score for your essay:

  • Create an attractive and catchy introduction
  • Pick up the most interesting ideas for your paper
  • Create an outline
  • Point out the most important facts in the body of your essay
  • Choose only reliable and up-to-date sources
  • Create a paper in a proper voice and tone
  • Complete the paper with a fitting conclusion
  • Make your paper look solid
  • Avoid any grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes, as well as typos
  • Use proper formatting

As far as you can see, creating a successful paper is not as easy as it might seem from first glance. In case you feel this task is unaffordable for you, you can get professional help with creating a winning academic paper according to your needs for a reasonable cost. Buying an essay is as simple as 1-2-3, while the entire job of creating an academic paper will be done by professional writers.

REFERENCES:

  • Research tips for students
  • Basic facts about literature
  • The literature of ancient China
  • The literature of ancient Rome
  • Shakespeare's Life and World
  • The benefits of reading literature
  • Classic literature study guides

PrepScholar

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

author image

General Education

feature_pencilpaper

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

  • Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
  • Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
  • How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
  • How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
  • How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
  • How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

music-277279_640

Current Events

  • What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
  • How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
  • How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
  • Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
  • What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
  • What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
  • How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
  • How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
  • How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
  • What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
  • What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
  • What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
  • Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies  (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
  • Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
  • Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
  • Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
  • Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
  • Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
  • How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
  • Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
  • What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
  • How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
  • What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
  • Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
  • Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
  • Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
  • How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
  • Should graduate students be able to form unions?

body_highschoolsc

  • What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
  • How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
  • Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
  • Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
  • How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
  • How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
  • Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
  • Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
  • Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
  • Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
  • Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
  • Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
  • Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
  • Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
  • Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
  • How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
  • How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
  • What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
  • What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
  • Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
  • What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
  • What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
  • Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
  • Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
  • How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
  • Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
  • What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
  • How does stress affect the body?
  • Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
  • What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
  • Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
  • How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
  • What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
  • What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
  • Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
  • What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
  • What were the causes of the Civil War?
  • How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
  • Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
  • What caused Hitler's rise to power?
  • Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
  • What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
  • How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
  • What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

main_lincoln

  • Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
  • Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
  • How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
  • How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
  • What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
  • What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
  • How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

  • How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
  • How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
  • Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
  • Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
  • How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
  • How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
  • What are the pros and cons of fracking?
  • What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
  • What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
  • How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
  • Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
  • Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
  • What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
  • What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
  • How are black holes created?
  • Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
  • How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
  • Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
  • How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
  • Has social media made people more or less connected?
  • What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
  • Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
  • What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
  • How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
  • When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
  • Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

body_iphone2

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

Thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners have one of the fastest growing careers in the country, and we have all the information you need to know about what to expect from nurse practitioner school .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

author image

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Join the Conversation

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

  • For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

american literature topics for research paper

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”
  • How to Cite
  • Language & Lit
  • Rhyme & Rhythm
  • The Rewrite
  • Search Glass

Research Paper Topics for American Literature

Research paper topics for American literature are assignments by English professors and high school teachers. English instructors require students to explore an author's work by focusing on the author's views and literary philosophies. Authors create an opportunity for students because they write from an historical perspective and provide a visual landscape of their societies as they experienced it. Research paper topics often center on a particular period in American literary history.

Colonial Period

The colonial period is set between 1607 and 1765. Mmajor historical characters of the period include Jonathan Edwards, William Bradford, Anne Bradstreet, Cotton Mather and Benjamin Franklin. Research paper topics can center on plantation life and the influence of Puritan self-government in colonial America. Students can focus their writings on the education and instructional advice each author promotes within the works produced during this time.

Revolutionary Period

The revolutionary period of 1765 to 1789 is steeped in American ideology on the definition of freedom. Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" is arguably the most explored work by American literature students. English professors often assign academic papers that require students to compare the views and ideals expressed within Paine's work with that of the ideals of the "Declaration of Independence." Students also can choose to write papers on the works of Phillis Wheatley, George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.

Nationalism and Romanticism

The American citizenry began to adopt a sense of nationalism between 1789 and 1830. Students in American literature classes read about James Fenimore Cooper's "The Last of the Mohicans" and the works of Washington Irving and William Cullen Bryant. Research paper topics can center on transcendentalism, and students can explore man's struggle with colonial ideals as a wilderness motif within their papers. The subject of how Bryant's work influenced Abraham Lincoln's "Emancipation Proclamation" is another common assignment.

American Renaissance

The American Renaissance is a period in literary history -- set between 1830 and 1870 -- in which Oliver Wendell Holmes, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Ralph Waldo Emerson are major characters. Research paper topics for American literature often provide opportunities for instructors to assign papers on Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter." Students can write papers on symbolism, moral ambiguity and views of attitudes toward women of the period, or they can compare Thoreau's "Civil Disobedience" with Martin Luther King's "A Letter from Birmingham Jail."

African Influence and Realism

The Africans' struggle with colonial ideals is expressed by popular literary characters such as Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth. The Rise of Realism is an American literature period set between 1870 and 1914. Douglass arouses the reader's sympathy as he promotes humanitarianism in his work "My Bondage and My Freedom." English students can choose paper topics on the impact of the Underground Railroad in the United States, as well as woman's suffrage and African American spirituals or Harriet Beecher Stowe's book, "Uncle Tom's Cabin."

Contemporary American Literature

The Contemporary American Literature period is set between 1914 and the present. Robert Frost, Carl Sandburg, William Carlos Williams and Langston Hughes are major literary characters that English instructors use to explore the period. Research paper topics for American literature can explore the lives of common people and social perception in poetic forms. Students have the option of exploring how poets perceive God, creation and life by focusing on a literary work's tone, imagery and choice of language. Writers can also explore the short works of William Faulkner.

I am currently an Adjunct English Instructor (vendor). I teach English, ESL, and writing (composition). My blog focuses on helping students use margin comments as tools for revising their essays. I have published a full textbook version of the glossary and mini glossaries. The book has been approved and adopted by two major universities.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Literature Topics and Research

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.

What kinds of topics are good ones?

The best topics are ones that originate out of your own reading of a work of literature, but here are some common approaches to consider:

  • A discussion of a work's characters: are they realistic, symbolic, historically-based?
  • A comparison/contrast of the choices different authors or characters make in a work
  • A reading of a work based on an outside philosophical perspective (Ex. how would a Freudian read Hamlet ?)
  • A study of the sources or historical events that occasioned a particular work (Ex. comparing G.B. Shaw's Pygmalion with the original Greek myth of Pygmalion)
  • An analysis of a specific image occurring in several works (Ex. the use of moon imagery in certain plays, poems, novels)
  • A "deconstruction" of a particular work (Ex. unfolding an underlying racist worldview in Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness )
  • A reading from a political perspective (Ex. how would a Marxist read William Blake's "London"?)
  • A study of the social, political, or economic context in which a work was written — how does the context influence the work?

How do I start research?

Once you have decided on an interesting topic and work (or works), the best place to start is probably the Internet. Here you can usually find basic biographical data on authors, brief summaries of works, possibly some rudimentary analyses, and even bibliographies of sources related to your topic.

The Internet, however, rarely offers serious direct scholarship; you will have to use sources found in the library, sources like journal articles and scholarly books, to get information that you can use to build your own scholarship-your literary paper. Consult the library's on-line catalog and the MLA Periodical Index. Avoid citing dictionary or encyclopedic sources in your final paper.

How do I use the information I find?

The secondary sources you find are only to be used as an aid. Your thoughts should make up most of the essay. As you develop your thesis, you will bring in the ideas of the scholars to back up what you have already said.

For example, say you are arguing that Huck Finn is a Christ figure ; that's your basic thesis. You give evidence from the novel that allows this reading, and then, at the right place, you might say the following, a paraphrase:

According to Susan Thomas, Huck sacrifices himself because he wants to set Jim free (129).

If the scholar states an important idea in a memorable way, use a direct quote.

"Huck's altruism and feelings of compassion for Jim force him to surrender to the danger" (Thomas 129).

Either way, you will then link that idea to your thesis.

200 Compelling Literary Research Paper Topics to Explore

blog image

Literary research holds the key to unlocking the power of knowledge and education. But what makes a research paper truly impactful? It all starts with selecting a fascinating topic. This blog post presents 300 handpicked Literary research paper topics that will ignite your scholarly pursuits. From cutting-edge trends to unexplored territories, these topics promise to fuel your intellectual curiosity and make you write like a professional  writing services  provider. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Comprehensive Lists of Impressive Literary Research Paper Topics

Be it anything you want to research related to Literary, our comprehensive lists of topics have you covered. So, without further ado, let’s begin with our first list.

American Literature Topics for Research

Picking up a topic from this list will allow you to uncover hidden narratives, analyze iconic works, and more. Here you go with the list.

  • A Study of Domestic Gothic and postwar architectural culture in Shirley Jackson’s House Trilogy
  • Anti-racism Resistance in American Literature
  • Political and ideological agendas are reflected in American Literature
  • American Literature from a feminist point of View
  • Leonard Cohen’s Psalms or the demons of Tradition: the Book of Mercy and the Psalms of Leonard Cohen
  • An Overview of Spanish Literature Written in the United States
  • Correlations and contrasts between postmodernism and American Literature: A study of their relationship
  • Poetic Hybridity in American Poetry: existing and Resisting through Its Hybridity
  • Bram Stoker’s Dracula depicts vampires in what can be considered a realistic fashion
  • Comparison between Stephanie Meyer’s vampires vs. L.J. Smith’s vampires
  • How Bram Stoker’s Dracula differs from William Polidori’s The Vampire
  • Anne Rice vs. Stephanie Meyers: Different Approaches to writing supernatural Literature
  • Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: Evolution of the Character with Time in Literature and Movies
  • Illustrations of Nosferatu, the first vampire character to appear on a screen in Literature
  • The relation between intertextuality and social space
  • Depiction of La Lorna and other supernatural elements in American Literature
  • Contemporary literary figures of Orality: ruptures and Continuity
  • What is the fascination with supernatural imagery in American Literature and popular culture?
  • Writings in English about refugee camps in Contemporary Literature
  • Taking a comparative look at contemporary theater stages
  • Comparing The Crucible with the actual Salem witch trials

Literary Research Paper Topics Related to English Literature

Pick a topic from this list and brace yourself for an awe-inspiring journey, illuminating the profound impacts of English literature on our hearts. Here’s the list.

  • What is Shakespeare’s contribution to classic English Literature?
  • Comparison and contrast of Shakespeare and Marlowe
  • Shakespeare and Marlowe: busting myths
  • Historical and Political Analysis of English Literature during the Middle Ages
  • The Elizabethan Era and English Literature
  • An Understanding of Victorian Literature from a political perspective
  • Comparing Edwardian Literature with its predecessors, what makes it unique?
  • English Literature at its Zenith
  • Greek Influence on English Literature: the history of English Literature
  • Comparing women’s Literature to classical English literature in terms of literary and social issues
  • An Overview of British Fiction from the 19th Century
  • Women in Classic English Literature: their portrayal and Characterization
  • Arab civilizations influenced Literature in the early English period
  • A collective analysis of English Poetry from the 19th to the 20th Century
  • The Impact of Modernism on English Poetry
  • The Social and political history of Victorian England as Portrayed through English Literature
  • Literary explorations of British colonial slavery during the 18th and 19th centuries
  • Adaptation to postcolonial cultures, neo-Victorian Culture, and Postcolonial Literature
  • Literature of the postcolonial period versus Literature of the British period
  • The history of books and publishing in the 20th-21st Century in British fiction
  • Emotional expression and perception, semantics, lexical semantics
  • A History of Ideas and Literature from the 18th Century
  • An overview of the history of publishing and books
  • Aspects of Race and Ethnicity, popular culture, and Politics
  • Britain’s Revolutions and the Rise of Socialism: Literature that influenced them
  • Actors of Shakespeare’s time, the role of the Elizabethan theater
  • Literature’s contribution to understanding British politics and society today

Postcolonial Literary Research Paper Topics

Dig into stories that question the effects of colonialism and look into issues of identity, resistance, and decolonization. Get inspired by the captivating stories that are reshaping the history of colonialism with these topics.

  • A Study of Heart of The Darkness from an analytical perspective
  • Heart of the Darkness: Conrad’s Treatment of Africans in the Story
  • Achebe’s stance against the design of Heart of Darkness
  • Heart of Darkness vs. Things Fall Apart: Comparisons and Contrasts
  • A Look at the Treatment of Africans in Things Fall Apart
  • Concept of native society in Things Fall Apart
  • A Study of the indigenous culture of Africa in Light of Things Fall Apart
  • Postcolonial Literature Compared to British Literature
  • Literature is written in the French language dealing with postcolonialism
  • The Analysis of Postcolonial Literature Written in India after the End of Colonialism
  • Ahmed Ali’s Works as Part of the postcolonial movement: a critical analysis
  • An Analysis of Twilight in Delhi as a postcolonial novel through the Lens of critical theory
  • Depiction of the colonized races in British Literature
  • Conrad’s treatment of negros and the accusation of racism
  • A Critique of Orientalism from the Perspective of Edward Said
  • Elements of Postcolonialism Twilight in Delhi
  • The elements belonging to the narrative framework of the postcolonial theory
  • Understanding Postcolonialism with Edward Said’s Orientalism
  • An Introduction to Postcolonial Theory: Concepts and Definitions
  • The Evolution of the Woman within Postcolonial Literature
  • An Overview of Algerian Postcolonial Literature
  • British Literature, with its treatment of African nations
  • Postcolonial and Feminine Resistance in Algerian and Sahrawi States
  • Postcolonialism: An Effort to search its history
  • Identity, alterity, and Hybridity in postcolonial states
  • Introduction to postcolonial theory

Arabic Topics in Literature

Discover the fascinating world of Arabic Literature and explore its cultural heritage, poetic stories, and social dynamics. Here you go with the list.

  • Literature of the Arab World and its Influence on French Literature
  • The Influence of Arab Culture on Middle Ages Literature
  • Hayy Bin Yaqzan is the first novel by modern criteria
  • A collection of poetry by Shafi’i and historical, literary Analysis
  • A Study of Religious Literature in Arabian Civilization
  • Islamic Golden Ages were characterized by more significant progress in theological Literature
  • Poetry from the Arab world is the foundation of modern global poetry
  • Literature related to Mahdism in Islam
  • Arab-Islamic culture is significant in the Literature written in Arabic
  • The Evolution of Arabic Poetry and Literature
  • The Poetry of the Arab Diaspora and Nature’s Aesthetics
  • Ghazali’s literary works and acknowledgment of divine essence
  • A study of the relationship between Arabic poetry and music and song
  • Al-Gazzal’s two doors of knowledge through the heart
  • Iberian expansion as a cause of Islamic culture’s influence on Western Literature
  • Music and poetry from the pre-Islamic period in Arabic
  • Arab Literature and social criticism in the modern era
  • Aristotelian Philosophy and Greek Mythology in Modern Arab Literature
  • The culture and civilization of the Ottoman Empire were influenced by Arabic poetry and music
  • Arabic Literature’s Depiction of Morality and Politics
  • A Study of Arab Literature by Christian Authors
  • The philosophy of Islam is expressed and explained through Arabic culture
  • An Introduction to the History and Literature of Islam

Existentialist Literary Research Topics

Dig into the deep thinking, self-examination, and emotions of uncertainty that come with exploring the works of important writers trying to figure out life, independence, and more. Here’s the list.

  • The post-war emergence of existentialism
  • War-torn human characters reflect existentialist Literature.
  • What is the character of Godot in Waiting For Godot? How does Beckett explain what he is saying?
  • Existentialist Drama into 21st-Century of Western Literature
  • How does Beckett become an existential absurdist?
  • Samuel Becket’s Life from a contemporary perspective
  • The Reasons and inspirations behind Sartre’s Existentialism
  • Waiting For Godot is interpreted in real time and real life.
  • Considering Jean-Paul Sartre’s works from different perspectives.
  • The Existentialist Literature: a critical analysis
  • Horrors of War and Existentialist Literature After and About the Vietnam War
  • A Comparison of Absurdism and Existentialism in Western Literature
  • Theater of absurdity representation of existentialism
  • A 21st-century Take on absurdist theater as a significant part of British Literature
  • Existentialism: Is it Here to Stay? Getting rid of absurdity in a changing world
  • Does the search for meaning transcend modern man?
  • Existentialism in British Literature
  • “There is infinite hope in the universe, not for us.” How do you see Kafka as an existentialist? How does he differ from the philosophers of his field?

Literary Research Topics Related to Poetry

Check out our great research paper topics and how powerful poems can be!

  • Pioneers of European Literature in the realm of poetry
  • Inspiration for John Keats’ poetry by Fanny Brawne
  • The difference between Keats and his contemporaries
  • Analyzing John Keats’ Works from a historical perspective
  • The poetry of social protest in the early Renaissance
  • What makes the poetry of the Renaissance the most outstanding?
  • An early role played by Midland poets in the development of English poetry
  • Literature of the Highlands and its Contribution to English cultural development
  • The challenges of the development of English poetry
  • Geoffrey Chaucer, the father of English poetry
  • Poetry as a Pillar of Modern Literature
  • The Importance of legal vocabulary in a poetic context
  • Thinking about poetry as a critique from the Renaissance era
  • The genre and meaning of Auden’s poem
  • Poetry of Robert Frost: A study
  • Research on the poetry of William Shakespeare
  • Wordsworth as a pioneer of modern Literature
  • Poetry of Alfred Lord Tennyson: a historical analysis
  • A general study of the Poetry of Samuel Taylor Coleridge
  • A Look and Study of the Aubreys of Innocence by William Blake
  • Prose versus poetry in the early Renaissance
  • Story of Love and Death, by Edgar Allan Poe.
  • Emily Dickinson is one of America’s most famous poets
  • Maya Angelo’s struggle for civil rights and using poetry as a vector of fight

Literary Research Topics Related to Novel

Go deep into the story, getting to know the characters and thinking about the themes to unlock the timeless charm of this popular type of writing. Here’s the list.

  • A Study of the Gothic Novel in the British Isles
  • Publishing Literature the modern novel: conditions and Sources of Innovation
  • History and Fiction in African-American Women’s Literature
  • Toni Morrison is one of the pioneers of the American novel
  • Covenant: An American Novel of South African History
  • James Michener’s works in novels and different aspects of modern American society
  • Modern Literature in the Film and tv industry
  • Novels of Thomas Hardy, a critical analysis
  • What is the significance of Jane Austen as a pioneer of English literature? What are your thoughts on this?
  • A Comparison and Contrast of American dystopian novels
  • Supernatural novelists of English literature, between William Polidori and Bram Stoker
  • Frankenstein by Mary Shelley is the first supernatural novel in the history of English literature
  • Children’s Literature written in British territories
  • Postcolonial novels from a 21st-century perspective
  • The Vampire Diaries, the pioneering novel for gen-z supernatural fascinations
  • Anne Rice vs. Stephanie Meyers: what is different and what is similar
  • Knowledge, Power, and Authority in Contemporary Fantasy
  • Tensions and Expression in the Modern American Novel
  • Political Depiction of Christianity in American Novels and Movies

Literary Research Topics Related to Drama

Check out these cool topics to write an amazing research paper your teacher is expecting of you. 

  • Shakespearean Drama from historical practices
  • Plagiarism allegations about Shakespeare
  • William Shakespeare vs. Christopher Marlowe: Contrasts and Comparisons
  • An overview of Shakespeare’s plays and how they formed modern theater and cinema
  • Waiting For Godot by Beckett, from a directorial and cinematic perspective
  • Elizabethan vs. Jacobean Drama: What makes them different?
  • Oscar Wilde as a playwright, from a modern perspective
  • Shakespeare as a pioneer of the European literature boom
  • Role of Queen Elizabeth I in the Promotion of English Drama and Theater
  • Stages of Transformation: at the Crossroads of Theater and abolitionist movements
  • Role of Drama in European Literature
  • The Drama of the 21st Century and how it differs from the Classics
  • Greek tragedy compared to Shakespearean tragedy
  • Greek Tragedy vs. Classical English Drama
  • Modern vs. Classical tragedy, essential comparative elements
  • Was European Literature initially focused on Drama? Why or why not?
  • The Importance of Being Earnest is one of the most beloved plays. Why?
  • Oscar Wild as a dramatist
  • Literature formed Freudianism, a psychoanalytical analysis of the plays that inspired Sigmund Freud
  • Mourning Becomes Electra and Oedipus Rex, how two tragedies formed the Basis of modern psychology
  • Literary Analysis of the Supernatural in the Plays of Marlowe
  • Classic vs. Modern Literature in the Area of Tragedy and Drama
  • Edward Bond, a playwright of hope or despair?
  • When does British Literature portray elements of World war
  • Literary devices used in early British literary works and Renaissance literature
  • Language diversity in historical novels in the Victorian literature era
  • European culture depicted in early American Literature
  • American literature contribution to Studies on Classical Literature
  • Literary Argument on literary works of the Renaissance in Comparison with Indian Literature

Interesting Literature Topics

These literary research topics can spark your interest, challenge your views, and help you appreciate Literature even more.

  • Travel writing for college students living the American dream
  • Use of poetic language and literary devices in Japanese literary works
  • Social identity in dystopian Literature that World War II inspired
  • Male and female characters in African American Literature
  • Literary novels in the genre of young adult literature
  • Literature paper on Japanese Literature depicting Post World War II modern culture
  • Literary Analysis of artificial language in Utopian and Dystopian Literature
  • The modern culture depicted in American and Asian culture
  • Literary Analysis of Harry Potter and novel writing for university students
  • Harry Potter is a significant literature contribution opening new doors to literary research.
  • Comparative Literary Analysis of travel writing vs. literary journalism
  • Literary Analysis of travel writing in Indian Literature
  • African literary responses to American Literature on world war in the Twentieth Century
  • How American Literature Differs from Modern Chinese Literature: Form and evaluate literature response on Written Literature

Hopefully, these lists of good topics for research papers have helped you pick a suitable subject and make a real difference in literary research. Remember that a good topic always plays a pivotal role in the paper’s success. If you are still trying to figure out how to proceed with your assignment , count on the professional expertise of  our writers .

Order Original Papers & Essays

Your First Custom Paper Sample is on Us!

timely deliveries

Timely Deliveries

premium quality

No Plagiarism & AI

unlimited revisions

100% Refund

Try Our Free Paper Writing Service

Related blogs.

blog-img

Connections with Writers and support

safe service

Privacy and Confidentiality Guarantee

quality-score

Average Quality Score

Thesis Helpers

american literature topics for research paper

Find the best tips and advice to improve your writing. Or, have a top expert write your paper.

221 Awesome Literary Research Paper Topics To Choose From

literary research paper topics

Are you looking for the best literary research paper topic or wondering how to choose a topic for a literary research paper? You are at the right place. The hardest part of doing research is getting an ideal topic. Once, you get a great topic you are good to go.

We have a great number of best-rated expert writers that can provide well-done professional papers. As students in college, we understand that high payment rates can be frustrating, that’s why we offer cheap prices for high-quality work. We offer the best help with research papers to get top grades. Browse through this variety of topics to find the best fit for you.

Literature Research Topics

Getting an ideal literature research paper topic can consume a lot of time. In this category, you will get some of the best literature research topics.

  • Discuss the American dream in literature.
  • How do religion and literature correlate?
  • Discuss the “stream of consciousness” style of literature.
  • Examine artificial languages in literature.
  • How is mythology termed in literature?
  • Discuss why Harry Potter became that popular.
  • Is it advisable for literature to be gendered?
  • Evaluate between utopian and dystopian literature.
  • Discuss the work of Shakespeare.
  • How can you rate the feminist literature – does it have a ground?
  • Evaluate the impact of the work of Shakespeare.
  • Can fan fiction be considered an independent part of literature?
  • How do clichés work in literature
  • How are the Byronic characters in literature?
  • Discuss the good and evil of studying literature.
  • The literary work during WWI
  • Evaluate the portrayal of war and peace by George Orwell.

Interesting Literature Topics

Did you know that there are interesting literature topics? They deal with the evolution of literature and how it has grown till the present time. Thinking of literature topics for research paper is challenging, so here are some more options.

  • How can you term irony and sarcasm in literature?
  • How can literature be termed as an instrument of propaganda?
  • Discuss madness in literature.
  • The influence of trickster characters in literature.
  • Discuss travel writing in the 20 th century.
  • Evaluate narrative nature and verse since 1900.
  • How has city living changed since 1900?
  • Evaluate literature as part of modern culture.
  • How are social issues exposed in literature?
  • The relation between literature and psychology.
  • The influence of European culture in the Midwest literature.
  • The differences between the literature of different countries.
  • The effect of European culture on modern literature.
  • The impact of feminism on modern culture.
  • Evaluate Japanese literature in the 20 th century.

Literature Topics for a Research Paper

In this category, you will get a wide variety of literature topics that you can use for your research. A well-written research paper will help you get top grades.

  • What can you term as the cultural production of Latina writers?
  • Discuss the representation of Ethics in literature.
  • Evaluate the famous work of Ernest Hemingway.
  • Expound on the invented languages in literature.
  • Why do you think “Harry Potter” has become so popular?
  • How is the Image of death represented as a character in literature?
  • The impact of literature on kids.
  • Is there an appropriate gender in literature?
  • Evaluate the Victorian literature.
  • Elaborate on the complete work of William Shakespeare.
  • Discuss whether fanfiction is independent literature.
  • Which are the Byronic characters in literature.
  • Elaborate irony versus sarcasm in literature.
  • How can literature be used as an instrument of propaganda?

Literature Research Paper Topics

In this category of research paper topics, you get to relate one phenomenon with the other. They are also based on some well-known novels. When thinking of literary topics for research paper, consider your scope of knowledge and interest in the topic.

  • The correlation between psychology and literature.
  • How is the construction of social identity?
  • How can you describe the settler nationhood and the wilderness in North American poetry?
  • Why does place matters to a poet?
  • Evaluate travel writing in the 20 th century and 21 st century.
  • The influence of animals in children’s literature.
  • Evaluate the importance of humor in children’s literature.
  • Discuss the best children’s novels from 1900.
  • How does young adult literature represent disability?
  • How to read to under five years old children to develop relationships and imaginations?
  • Evaluate the modern novel and psychology.
  • Define the cross-disciplinary boundaries between archaeology and English literature.
  • Evaluate the 19 th -century novel and science.
  • Evaluate how history is important in deciphering modern literature.
  • How is philosophy important to literature.

English Literature Research Paper Topics

In English literature, it focuses on how various novels, classics, or books are written to explain a certain phenomenon. Here are some literature topics that you can start with:

  • Evaluate the methods of teaching English literature.
  • Investigate modern Indian literature in English translation.
  • Evaluate women writers and the survey of English literature.
  • Investigate the impact of the Bible on English literature.
  • Evaluate the impact of the Classics on Literature.
  • Define the scope of English literature in Educating people.
  • Explain the influence of Darwin on Literature.
  • Explain medieval English literature.
  • Examine Women studies and Feminism in India.
  • Evaluate the short history of the Norton Anthology of the English language.
  • Evaluate the English Renaissance study.
  • Investigate medieval feminism in middle English Studies.
  • Evaluate women in Indian English Literature.
  • Discuss feminism and modern Indian literature.
  • Discuss the evolution of English in North America.

Topics in Literature

Literature requires full concentration to get to the bottom of a certain phenomenon. We have simplified the topics to make it easier for you to do your assignment in college.

  • Discuss Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet based on Male melodrama.
  • How as black lives matter movement influenced black literature?
  • Evaluate the contemporary refuge literature.
  • Investigate post-colonialism and climate change in literature.
  • Discuss tradition and modernity through the lens of Tagore Gora.
  • Investigate the relation between pre-independence and post-independence in Indian literature.
  • The role of African literary responses to Racism.
  • The literature on homosexuality.
  • The significance of Literature in the modern world.
  • Feminism growth in the twentieth century.
  • The effects of fairy tales perceptions in the modern era.
  • Correlation between pre-independence and post-independence Indian literature.
  • Discuss the novel, “To kill a Mockingbird from 1960”.
  • The significance of Shakespeare in the world of Literature.
  • How did the artistry of writing novels start?
  • The character analysis of Emy and Rebecca in Vanity Fair.
  • The Depiction of vampires in the 19 th and 21 st -century literature.

Research Topics in English Literature

In this category, there are comparison topics that you can analyze for your research. These are based on well-known books and novels in English.

  • Evaluate the diversity of Chaucer’s genres in tales of Canterbury.
  • The accuracy of historical novels in the document happenings.
  • How has the role of a woman changed in twentieth-century literature?
  • What effect does Milton’s paradise lost have on 17 th -century literature?
  • How have James Joyce and William Burroughs done their novels?
  • What is our modern perspective about 19 th -century novels and the general public and similar perspectives when they were first published?
  • Evaluate the less-known work of well-known writers.
  • Examine why adults find Lord of the Rings appealing.
  • How does the work of Maya Angelou play a role in African literary responses to racism?
  • Recognizing the unconscious in modernist literature.
  • Evaluate the representation of Hindu and Buddhist thought in Modern Literature.
  • The representation of abortion in British Literature.
  • Profess poetry in terms of style and faith in Hopkins.
  • Evaluate the evolution of literature in the twentieth century.
  • Describe the writing nature in the age of chemical countryside.

Literature Topics for Research Papers

These are some of the best literature topics for research papers. They require minimal effort to submit a well-written research paper.

  • The roles of gender in modern literature.
  • The importance of having animals in children’s literature.
  • Analysis of the first world war.
  • How accurate is History as described in historical novels?
  • The difference between literature in the US and Great Britain.
  • Analyze the 19 th -century poetic imagination.
  • Examine the 19 th -century poetic imagination based on astronomy.
  • How is quantum physics applied in literature?
  • What is the most important work written by William Shakespeare?
  • The Female masculinities in old English Literature.
  • The difference between modernism and realism.
  • Critical analysis of First World War poetry.
  • The analysis of the meaning of fairy tales in literature.
  • The influence on literature during the renaissance era.
  • The historical analysis of children’s literature.
  • The idea of death in Renaissance literature.
  • The historical background of Duma’s novels.

Literary Topics for a Research Paper

Literary topics are diverse. This can make it hectic to choose an appropriate one for your research paper.

  • Discuss the most important work of Shakespeare.
  • Describe the gothic novel’s gender representation.
  • The effect of social media language on learners.
  • The travails of the African woman.
  • The utilization of language activities in teaching and learning of English Language.
  • Discuss women in nation-building and influence on literature.
  • The relevance of folktale in the learning of literature.
  • The significance of drama and poetry in literature.
  • Factors affecting the choice of language in a multilingual society.
  • Comparative study of morphological processes in English.
  • Comparative study of Achebe’s “Things fall apart”.
  • The significance of proverbs in literature.
  • The influence of politics in the building of literary texts.
  • The analysis of speech in literature.
  • The analysis of threat in literature.

Research Topics in Literature

These research topics are based on various societal aspects and impacts on the world. They also deal with people’s emotions and behaviors in different contexts.

  • The nativization of English in African literary texts.
  • An analysis of the Asian theatre and influence on modern literature.
  • The examination of leadership in literature.
  • The relevance of literature in the world.
  • What is the need to study literature?
  • Evaluate the evolution of literature from the start till now.
  • Analyze the methods used in creating styles in the literature.
  • What are some of the feminist criticism of some selected Feminist works?
  • The importance of fiction in literature.
  • The relevance of emotion and narration in novel writing in literature.
  • Discuss how conflicts are brought out in literary novels.
  • What is the effect of language diversity on the development of a country?
  • Discuss the relevance of music and revolution.
  • The challenges of language on national development.
  • What is the communication medium used in literature?

Literature Paper Topics

Here are some of the best literature paper topics that you can use for your research. As long as you narrow down the research topic, getting relevant information will be easy.

  • The difference between linguistic and grammatical theories.
  • The problems related to tenses in literature.
  • The evaluation of word formation in literature.
  • The significance of poems in literature.
  • The evolution and levels of modern literature.
  • The personal happiness versus societal norms in Victorian literature.
  • The sentence structure of English literature.
  • Does the native language of a person influence adoption of a second language?
  • An analysis of problems associated with learning a second language.
  • The manifestation of non-standard usage of English among University Students.
  • The influence of rituals, music, songs, and dances in literature.
  • The poetic language and influence on the expression.
  • How can literature be termed as the vehicle for social change?
  • The syntactic problems associated with English usage.
  • The influence of society on students’ performance in literature.
  • Teaching and learning strengths in literature.

American Literature Research Paper Topics

Finding an ideal research paper topic in America’s context can consume a lot of time. Here you will find simplified topics for your research paper.

  • Discuss contemporary American Literature.
  • The African Realism and influence in Literature.
  • How did colonization influence modern literature?
  • Define 20 th -century Latin American literature.
  • Evaluate African Americans and their fight for equality in American Literature.
  • Define realism, naturalism, and modernism in African American literature.
  • Evaluate Allen Ginsberg and American Protest literature.
  • Examine American literature and society.
  • Analyze American literature in Post-World War II.
  • American Literature in the 20 th and 21 st century.
  • American literature and religious ideologies.
  • Anne Bradstreet’s contribution to American Literature.
  • The influence of Asian American literature.
  • Evaluate the color interpretations in the great Gatsby.
  • The common themes in American Literature.

Literature Research Paper Topics for College Students

Are you a college student looking for an ideal literature research paper? Here are some topics for you!

  • Provide your understanding of censorship in American Literature.
  • Evaluate black American women writers and their influence on the world.
  • Architectural imagery in 20 th century African American literature.
  • How do characters lose their innocence in literature?
  • The different modes of communication in literature.
  • The conversation of American Sign Language in literature.
  • How are dialects and death shown in literature?
  • How does Literature portray American culture?
  • How does self-verification occur in African American Literature?
  • The generational divide and impact on modern literature.
  • The establishment of traditional excellence.
  • Explore the modern literature.
  • How can you define masculinity in literature?
  • The impact of World War I on American literature.
  • The significance of African American literature addressing the black experience.
  • The male and female characters in Beowulf.
  • The relationship between mother and daughter in Beloved.

Literature Review Topics Examples

Do you know how to do a literature review on various topics? Try any of this and see your proficiency in the sector.

  • A literature review on rational and rationality.
  • A literature review on dependence and development.
  • A literature review on resource scarcity in the modern world.
  • A literature review on pop culture.
  • A literature review on Feminist international relations.
  • A literature review on complex organizations and regimes.
  • A literature review on censorship in TV shows.
  • A literature review on global warming and its influence on mankind.
  • Literature review on why children’s books are popular.
  • A literature review on how authors choose writing styles.
  • The use of artificial language in literature.
  • How education affects literature per era.
  • The most effective villains in literature.
  • How does Shakespeare inspire modern authors?
  • Propaganda and literature in the modern world.
  • Toni Morrison’s views on the civil way
  • The concept of war in the book; a fable by Faulkner.

Don’t Want To Spend Time Writing a Literary Paper?

Are you looking for the best research paper writing service online? We are here for you! We can even provide samples of previously done work for reference. You may want to get research paper help because of your tight schedule and we understand that. The prices are affordable for college and university students, and you get the best rated, high quality help with research paper there is! Explore through the wide variety of topics to see which suits you best and we will do the work for you.

annotated bibliography topics

Make PhD experience your own

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Custom Essay, Term Paper & Research paper writing services

  • testimonials

Toll Free: +1 (888) 354-4744

Email: [email protected]

Writing custom essays & research papers since 2008

100 best literary research paper topics for 2023.

literary research paper topics

Did you know that your professor will most likely award you bonus points simply because you came up with the most literary research paper topics? Or that writing essays on the best literary research paper topics is quicker than writing about other topics? Our list of literary analysis topics, literary analysis research paper topics and English literature topics is exactly what you need. All the topics are completely free to use and entirely original. We are working hard to update the list periodically to make sure we can help as many students as possible.

The Ultimate Literary Research Paper Topics List

Stop searching all over the Internet for excellent literary essay topics. Take a look at our list of literary topics and pick the one you like right now. We have plenty of topics for literary analysis split into different categories, so high school and college students can easily find what they are looking for, not matter if it’s rhetorical analysis essay or a paper related to specific period in literature. In addition, our literature topics are fresh. In other words, they are a great option in 2023. Get the best topics in literature in mere minutes right here (literary debate topics included).

Top 10 Literature Topics

Take a look at our list of the best 10 literary analysis essay topics ever and select the one you like. Remember, all these topics are original (at the time of writing):

  • Describe literature as a part of the modern culture.
  • Daoism in modern Chinese literature.
  • Feminism in contemporary literature.
  • Don Quixote’s most important personality traits.
  • How did literature help advance human culture?
  • 21st century poetry.
  • Charles Dickens and picture in the Victorian period.
  • Gender issues in European literature.
  • Difference between villains and antiheroes in modern literature.
  • Psychology and its link to literature.

British Literature Research Paper Topics

Are you interested in writing something interesting about British literature? If so, you may be interested in some of our amazing British literature research paper topics:

  • Cultures influenced by British literature.
  • Describe the peculiarities of the Orphans theme.
  • Compare two characters from 2 British literary works.
  • Utopian civilization in British literature.
  • Gender issues in British literary works.
  • What makes a book a classic?
  • Lake Poets and the Romantic Movement in British literature.
  • Oliver Twist: individualism and collectivism.

Interesting Literature Topics

Did you know that if you manage to surprise or impress your professor, you will most often get some bonus points? To achieve this, just choose one of these interesting literature topics:

  • Macbeth and the supernatural theme.
  • Social issues in modern literature.
  • Describe two masterpieces of contemporary literature.
  • Ethnicity in modem literature.
  • What is formalism in literature?
  • An in-depth Solomon Northrup biography.

Easy British Literature Essay Topics

We know, you want to write an interesting essay about British literature but don’t want to spend 4 days on it. Here are some easy British literature essay topics you will surely appreciate:

  • Discuss the Harry Potter books.
  • The loss of innocence motif (Lord of the Flies by William Golding)
  • Detective novels and their rise in popularity.
  • Analyze the three witches in Macbeth.
  • Describe the theme of class demarcation.
  • World War I: the use of violent imagery in novels.

Research Topics in English Literature

Do you want some of the best research topics in English literature on the Internet? You are in luck. We have some fresh topics that would work great in 2023:

  • Compare two of your favorite classis books.
  • What makes your favorite book so interesting?
  • Describe your favorite character in a book.
  • The best 5 authors in modern times.
  • Why has Harry Potter became so important?
  • Describe your favorite poet.

Western Literature Topics

Writing about Western literature can be a thrilling experience. Here are some topic ideas to choose from:

  • Compare and contrast 3 literary devices.
  • Artificial language in The Lord of the Rings.
  • The Bildungsroman genre: what is it?
  • Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner: Top 3 themes
  • Discuss the novel Tom Jones by Henry Fielding.
  • Paradise Lost’s influence on the modern novel

Literary Argument Topics

If you want to write a literary argument but don’t know where to start, we recommend you select one of these easy literary argument topics and start writing the paper today:

  • The Genesis myth in literature of the 17th century.
  • Analyze the poems by Thomas Hardy and identify the love and loss motifs.
  • Describe the peculiarities of rustic writing.
  • Gender in gothic novels.
  • Space age in literature of the 21st century.
  • Effects of mass print on Renaissance literature.

American Literature Research Paper Topics

Don’t postpone writing the American literature essay. We know you don’t know where to start, so we have put together a list of awesome American literature research paper topics just for you:

  • In-depth analysis of Colonial-period literature.
  • Puritan themes in Jonathan Edwards’ sermons.
  • Analyze Edith Wharton’s The Age of Innocence.
  • I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings: The power of education.
  • Ernest Hemingway’s Old Man and the Sea: unbreakable spirit
  • James Weldon Johnson’s The Creation: God’s humanity

Easy American Literature Topics

In case you want to write an essay about American literature but don’t want to spend too much time on it, we have some very interest and very easy American literature topics for students:

  • Discuss Latin American literature.
  • Top three literary devices in Moby Dick.
  • Discuss the main theme in Hamlet.
  • Eastern and Western literature: Similarities and differences
  • Discuss the contemporary literary theory.
  • Peculiarities of the personality of Don Quixote

Literary Analysis Paper Topics

Let’s face it: writing literary analysis essay can be a very difficult thing to do, especially if you don’t have academic writing experience. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of original literary analysis paper topics:

  • Analyze your favorite book.
  • Contrast two characters in your favorite literary work.
  • Analyze the historical context of your favorite book.
  • Analyze the main idea of a literary work of your choice.
  • An in-depth analysis of the cultural context of a book.
  • She significance of Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy.

European Literature

Are you interested in European literature? Don’t worry, we have some excellent topic ideas you can choose from right now:

  • Discuss Henrik Ibsen.
  • The peculiarities of Medieval European literature.
  • Analyze major divisions in literature in Europe.
  • The impact of European literature on modern literature.
  • Discuss The Epic of Gilgamesh
  • Discuss symbolism in European literature.

American Literature Research Topics for College

College students should pick more complex topics to write their essays about. Our skilled writers managed to create a list of American literature research topics for college students that are entirely original:

  • Compare American and European literature.
  • Compare American and Asian literature.
  • Women in American literature.
  • Critical issues in American literature.
  • Comedy in American literature.
  • War and peace in American literature.

Literary Journalism Topics

Interested in writing about literary journalism? We will make things as easy as possible for you. Just select one of these unique literary journalism topics and start working on your paper in minutes:

  • Adventure as a form of creative nonfiction.
  • Write a story about a famous crime.
  • Write the biography of your favorite writer.
  • Write a sporting story.
  • Discuss a political event.
  • Write about the history of an important invention.

World Literature Research Topics

It can be pretty tough to write a great essay on one of the many world literature research topics. Fortunately for you, we have some interesting ideas that don’t require extensive research:

  • Compare Chinese and Japanese literary works.
  • The differences between European and Chinese literature.
  • Similarities between Iliad and Odyssey,
  • Compare two Indian anti-British literary works.
  • How did Marx and Engels influence European literature?
  • Supernatural and spirituality in American literature.

Poetry Topics

Do you like poetry? If you do, you are most likely interested in writing an essay about it. Here are some great ideas that will get you started (all poetry topics are 100% original):

  • Discuss Sylvia Plath’s poems.
  • The Flowers of Evil by Charles Baudelaire
  • What is prose poetry?
  • Interesting features of the Sonnets (Shakespeare)
  • Allen Ginsberg’s influence on poetry
  • Allusions in modern poetry.

Eastern Literature

Eastern literature has some unique traits that you won’t find anywhere else. If you are intrigued about this and want to write about Eastern literature, pick one of the topics below:

  • A biography of Khalil Gibran.
  • Discuss peculiarities of Jewish literature.
  • Turkish literary devices.
  • Motifs in Aladdin.
  • Daoism philosophy in Chinese works.
  • Compare Arabic and Chinese poetry.

Need More Help?

We know that some students want even more interesting topics. Or perhaps you want some complex topics that will surprise your professor. Our writers are here to help you with anything you need. We can send you another list of literary research paper topics in no time. Each and every topic will be original, so you can safely use any of them without having to worry about plagiarizing anything.

In addition to literature research topics, we can help you with all sorts of writing, editing and proofreading services. Our experienced academic paper writers have written thousands of academic papers in any format and on any topic you can imagine. We have the skills and the experience to help you find complex literary topics for research paper and write an essay that will get you the A+ you need.

conflict and compromise in history topics

Literary Analysis: Essay Prompts, Outline, & American Literature Topics

  • 📚 Literary Analysis Definition

🧩 Elements of a Literary Analysis

  • 📝 Literary Analysis Outline
  • 💡 Literary Analysis Prompts
  • 🤔 Topics for Literary Analysis
  • 🗽 American Literature Topics
  • ☘️ British & Irish Literature Topics

🌐 Classic European Literature Topics

🗺️ world literature essay topics.

It’s high time to discuss everything about literary analysis in detail!

📚 What Is Literary Analysis?

Literary analysis (literary criticism) is the process of interpreting a piece of literature. It implies a critical look at a text to understand the author’s message.

In this assignment, you trace tiny symbols and puzzles left by the author. As a reward, you get to the main idea. It is essential to differentiate a literary analysis from a summary where you just restate ideas from a text. Here, you need to dig into them and interpret them. Here are the main steps of a literary criticism process:

  • Interpretation

What Is the Purpose of a Literary Analysis Essay?

Literary analysis has several purposes. Here are some of them:

  • Understanding and interpreting the author’s point of view.
  • Looking deeper into the literary work canvas and finding new meanings in it.
  • Making up an opinion about the book.
  • Estimating a book in general, its strong and weak sides.

The proper literary analysis includes many details. You should provide not a summary but an interpretation . In the end, it can be considered a separate work.

Brainstorming and observing the following aspects makes writing more manageable.

📝 Literary Analysis Essay Outline – 3 Parts

We want to present you with a complete literary analysis outline. The parts from the section below will navigate you through writing your work.

Introduction of a Literary Analysis Essay

When writing a literary analysis, you examine the whole text and its components. So we recommend starting from the primary constituents. Here’s what you can include in your literary analysis essay intro :

  • In many cases, there’s already a lot said in the title – look at it more precisely.
  • Don’t forget to mention the author and give a piece of information about them.
  • Get the reader’s attention with a good hook . It will make the audience interested in your writing.
  • Give some background information about the book. For example, you can mention the context of when and where it was created.

Body of a Literary Analysis Essay

The body is the “fleshiest” part of your paper. Let’s see how to make it complete and exciting.

  • Introduce the contents of the section in a topic sentence .
  • Provide the reader with the evidence you’ve collected. It can be quotations, specific details from the book, or summarized sentences . Mind that you have to give your interpretations.
  • Smoothen the transition to the next paragraph with a closing sentence .

Conclusion of a Literary Analysis Essay

To wrap up your analysis, you will need a proper conclusion . Let’s look at its components:

  • A paraphrased thesis statement – reformulate your thesis preserving its main idea.
  • A summary of your work – give a quick review of the most significant points.
  • Only the information you already gave – don’t introduce any new facts.

💡5 Literary Analysis Prompts

The section below gives you clues on building an excellent literary analysis. You can choose any of them to focus your work on something specific.

1. Analyze a Character’s Behavior, Choices, and Motifs

First, you have to choose a character who resonates with you. In that case, your analysis will be more profound. You will enjoy writing it. Use the following or similar questions to perform it:

2. Compare Internal Conflict Vs. External Conflict

There is often a conflict or several in a literary work. It is something that makes a story engaging. Try to find it and put it to the test. For example, answer these questions:

3. Focus on a Specific Sentence

An author can put a lot of significance even into one sentence. If you manage to find it, you’ll get the key to understanding the whole point of the work. Try to find a sentence or several that got your attention and made you reflect on them.

4. Evaluate the Role of Setting

The setting often plays a significant role in a storyline. Look for the descriptions that may resonate with the characters’ state and the atmosphere.

5. Research the Background and Its Meaning

The majority of literary pieces resonate with historical or cultural contexts. You can use it for the analysis.

🤔 307 Literary Analysis Essay Topics

Consider the topics below for deep analysis. You’ll find titles to any taste, including American, British, and European literature.

Try our remarkable research title generator if these 300+ topics are not enough. It’s free and easy to use!

🗽 American Literature Essay Topics

  • The language and narrative in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald .
  • Analyze themes of the American Revolutionary period in literature.
  • Devil’s presence in “Young Goodman Brown” by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
  • Reunion of Daisy and Gatsby in The Great Gatsby novel by Francis Scott Fitzgerald .
  • Is “The Power of Sympathy” the first American Novel?
  • “A Ghetto Takes Shape: Black Cleveland” by Kusmer .
  • Vietnam War in The Things They Carried novel by Tim O’Brien .
  • The moral education of early America in “The Power of Sympathy.”
  • A disease of Marriage in “The Story of an Hour” by Chopin.
  • Religion and public life in American Grace by Putnam .
  • The friendship in Moby Dick: should it be an example for others?
  • “A Rose for Emily”: Analysis of a short story by William Faulkner .
  • The language and themes in the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost .
  • Elaborate on race and enslavement topics pictured in Moby Dick.
  • Kate Chopin’s background in “Story of an Hour.”
  • Racism experiences in the Black Like Me book by John Griffin .
  • Research the anti-slavery narratives in early American literature.
  • Gender struggles in To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf .
  • Composition of “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien .
  • Moby Dick: How did the sermon that Ishmael heard affect him?
  • Marriage in “The Awakening” Novel by Kate Chopin.
  • Behind a Convict’s Eyes by K. C. Carceral: Book review .
  • How does Walter Whitman use symbols in “Leaves of Grass”?
  • American Grace : A book by Robert Putnam and David Campbell .
  • Walt Whitman poetry: how to read and understand it?
  • Civil War history: “A Year in the South” by Ash .
  • Symbolism in “A Wall of Fire Rising” by Edwidge Danticat .
  • Walter Whitman: what are the controversial themes in “Leaves of Grass”?
  • Plot analysis of “Hills Like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway.
  • What is the deistic influence in Walter Whitman’s poetry?
  • Religion in American Grace by Putnam and Campbell .
  • Harlem Renaissance in “The New Negro” by Alain Locke .
  • What does “athletic friendship” mean in Walter Whitman’s poetry?
  • An Eye For An I: Critical Analysis of Poe’s “Tell-Tale Heart.”
  • Grief in the novel The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold .
  • Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain: a racist or anti-racist novel?
  • Cultural heritage in “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker .
  • Lessons learned from “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” short story by Flannery O’Connor .
  • Compare and contrast two characters of Mark Twain: Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer.
  • How to describe the American society in Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn?”
  • The concepts of good and evil in Young Lions by Irwin Shaw.
  • Black women in Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs .
  • Female characters in Death of a Salesman by A. Miller .
  • Compare and contrast three main characters of Irwin Shaw’s “Young Lions.”
  • “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” vs. “Smooth Talk”: Connie’s character.
  • How do Holden’s relationships with people differ in “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger?
  • Analysis of different works by Edgar Allan Poe .
  • The Crucible by Arthur Miller: Parallels with McCarthyism .
  • Analyze the imagery, structure, and syntax in Emily Dickinson’s poetry.
  • Chinese and American Women in Joy Luck Club novel and film.
  • The American decadence themes in Grapes of Wrath by J. Steinbeck.
  • Time in “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner .
  • The theme of consequences in “The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe .
  • Crime and punishment in Theodor Dreiser’s “American Tragedy.”
  • How is the process of growing up reflected in “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger?
  • Can we see James Joyce’s influence in William Faulkner’s novels?
  • The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain: Injustice of slavery and racism .
  • Hidden symbols in “The Storm” by Kate Chopin .
  • To Kill a Mockingbird: the metamorphoses of Jem and Scout in the novel.
  • “The Glass Menagerie” by Tennessee Williams character review.
  • All the Colors We Are : Children’s anti-bias book by Kissinger .
  • What do Clyde Griffiths and Frank Cowperwood of Theodor Dreiser’s novels have in common?
  • Rhetoric in “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor .
  • The Financier: can Frank Cowperwood be a role model for young and ambitious people?
  • “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Steve Covey: book concepts.
  • The Sound and the Fury: how do four different perspectives of narrative help understand the novel?
  • Analysis of the play Fences by August Wilson .
  • Fate in “A Good Man is Hard to Find” by F. O’Connor .
  • To Kill a Mockingbird: is Atticus a role model of a parent and a decent person?
  • “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller: Willy Loman Character Analysis.
  • Elaborate on the wide range of racist issues in the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
  • Women’s struggles in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin .
  • How is American Dream depicted in “American Tragedy”?
  • Symbolism in Williams’ “The Glass Menagerie.”
  • Signs of feminism in “The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
  • Comparison of “The Storm” and “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin .
  • American ideology in Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense.”
  • The American dream in the play “Death of a Salesman.”
  • How does Margaret Mitchell show the war tragedy in Gone with the Wind?
  • Blindness in “Cathedral” by Raymond Carver .
  • Gender roles in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin .
  • Vanity Fair by William Thackeray: does the book’s structure allow us to call it “a novel”?
  • The importance of “The Making of a Quagmire” by David Halberstam.
  • Explore transcendentalism topic in James Fenimore Cooper’s “The Last of the Mohicans.”
  • “We Wear the Mask” and “The Negro Speaks of Rivers” analysis .
  • The importance of learning in “Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave” by Frederick Douglass .
  • Does The Song of Hiawatha by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow have one main idea?
  • “Daddy” by Sylvia Plath: Review .
  • The Song of Hiawatha: the struggle between vice and virtue.
  • Gender relations on the example of “Trifle” by Glaspell.
  • Real life in “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer .
  • The Song of Hiawatha: the gap between reality and the ideal.
  • Cabico’s “Check One” poem: Motif-based analysis .
  • Moral ambiguity in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter.”
  • “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost: The poem as a metaphor .
  • Innocence vs. guilt in “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe .
  • The horrors of war in Ernest Hemingway’s novel “Farewell to Arms.”
  • Dave’s character in “The Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright.
  • The oppression of women in “Woman Hollering Creek” by Sandra Cisneros .
  • How does Harriette Stowe show the slavery horrors in “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”?
  • “A Rose for Emily” literary analysis .
  • Fallacies in “Boxing, Doctors – Round Two” by Cohn .
  • What are the symbols and settings that make Poe’s works recognizable?
  • Analysis of «Cod» by Mark Kurlansky .
  • The hypocrisy of the civilized society in “ The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn .”
  • “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair: the dark alleys of capitalism.
  • Analysis of “Roman Fever” by Edith Wharton .
  • Autobiographical motives in Jack London’s “Martin Eden.”
  • Analysis of “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker .
  • Nietzschean individualism versus socialism in Jack London’s “Martin Eden.”
  • Comparison of “The Cask of Amontillado” and “Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe .
  • Illusory of the distorted American ideals in Theodor Dreiser’s “Sister Carrie.”
  • “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker: plot analysis.
  • “American Tragedy” – a story about urbanization, modernization, and alienation.
  • “Daddy Issues” by Sandra Tsing Loh: The rhetorical analysis .
  • What is the idea of the “average” American way of life depicted in Sinclair Lewis’ “Babbitt”?
  • Dreams and hopes in A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry .
  • Comparison of “Barn Burning” and “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner .
  • How does Sinclair Lewis accomplish to create drama with the details?
  • The life of black people in Nella Larsen’s ‘Passing.’
  • What is the devastating cost of success in “The Great Gatsby” by F. S. Fitzgerald?
  • “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin: Review .
  • Religiousness in “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by O’Connor .
  • Southern families issues in “The Sound and The Fury” by W. Faulkner.
  • “Who Moved My Cheese” by Spencer Johnson: description of the book and its relation to business.
  • “Light in August”: Complex and violent relations between men and women.
  • The Lottery by Shirley Jackson: Literary analysis .
  • Imagery and symbolism in “The Open Boat” by Stephen Crane .
  • “The Sound and the Fury: are there innocent characters in the Compson family?
  • Analysis of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain .
  • The rise and decline of the Southern aristocracy in “The Snopes trilogy.”
  • “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner: the role of point of view.
  • Symbolism in the short story “Hills Like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway .
  • How are the themes of struggle, pride, and death revealed in “The Old Man and the Sea”?
  • Emily Grierson in “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner .
  • “In Cold Blood”: the context for the crime created in society.
  • Gender roles in the play The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams .
  • The theme of mental health in “The Yellow Wallpaper” story by Charlotte Gilman .
  • What Southern Gothic signs can we find in Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood”?
  • The Boy Who Would Be a Helicopter analysis .
  • “Because I Could Not Stop for Death” poem by Emily Dickinson .
  • Explore the unique style of Kurt Vonnegut in “Slaughter House Five.”
  • Cultural identity in “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker .
  • The influence of “The Cask of Amontillado” on Bierce’s work .
  • Lieutenant Jimmy Cross in “The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien.
  • Ethical problems in John Updike’s novel “The Centaur.”
  • Rubber hose in Death of a Salesman by Miller .

☘️ British & Irish Literature Essay Topics

  • What makes “Canterbury tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer a great piece of literature?
  • Analysis of the Hamlet play by William Shakespeare .
  • What figures of speech does G. Chaucer use to create a humorous narrative in “Canterbury Tales”?
  • The image of clergy in “Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer.
  • Satire by Jonathan Swift in “A Modest Proposal” essay.
  • If the “Faerie Queene” is a great “national” epic, what idea of the English nation does the poem create?
  • The idea of dreaming in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare .
  • Beowulf: is it a “perfect” hero from the Christian perspective ?
  • A separate individual and societal system in Dickens’ novel “Little Dorrit.”
  • The Character of Leggatt in “The Secret Sharer” by Joseph Conrad.
  • Why did Edmund Spencer invent a poetic diction for his poem, and does that language work?
  • The play Hamlet as a tragedy .
  • Are Romeo and Juliet a play about revenge? Why?
  • What racism issues are presented in “Othello”?
  • Describe Othello as a tragic hero in Shakespeare’s play.
  • Explore the imagery in John Milton’s “Paradise Lost.”
  • Feminism in “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman” by M. Wollstonecraft .
  • Female characters in the novel “David Copperfield” by C. Dickens.
  • Is the poem “Paradise Lost” morally conflicted? Why?
  • Themes in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”
  • The images of fairies and elves in Shakespeare’s comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
  • A system of moral standards in Robin Hood’s cycle of stories.
  • Victor in “Frankenstein,” the novel by Mary Shelley.
  • The hero and author images in P. Sidney’s “Astrophil and Stella.”
  • Explore the imagery in John Milton’s “Paradise Lost.”
  • Themes in Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad .
  • Thomas Heywood “A Woman Killed with Kindness”: family drama genre.
  • Romeo and Juliet: the problem of love and freedom.
  • Impact of gender in Shakespeare’s Othello.
  • The image of the villain in Shakespeare’s “Othello.”
  • Society criticism in “Careless Lovers” by Edward Ravenscroft .
  • What functions do the supernatural powers perform in “Macbeth”?
  • The Merchant of Venice: the topics of justice and mercy in the play.
  • Review of “The Victorian Internet,” the book by Tom Standage.
  • The peculiarities of the author’s irony in John Donne’s “Songs and sonnets.”
  • The character of Victor in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley .
  • The symbolic images of dreams and thunderstorms in John Donne’s poetry.
  • Arcadian motives in Andrew Marvel’s lyrics.
  • “Othello” by William Shakespeare: racism problem.
  • How is the image of Satan presented in J. Milton’s poetry?
  • Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelly .
  • Compare the image of the lost innocence in Milton’s and Dante’s poetry.
  • “The Alchemist” by Ben Jonson: the problems of style.
  • Ophelia’s Character in Shakespeare’s Play “Hamlet.”
  • The genre and method in the play “Volpone” by Ben Johnson.
  • Analysis of “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” by Samuel Coleridge .
  • What unique features of the composition does the play “The Changeling” by T. Middleton include?
  • “Perkin Warbeck” by John Ford: theatrical satire genre uniqueness.
  • How is madness portrayed in William Shakespeare’s “Play King Lear”?
  • The traveling theme in D. Defoe’s “The Life and Strange Surprising Adventures of Robinson Crusoe.”
  • The message in the poem “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night” by D. Thomas .
  • J. Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”: utopia and dystopia in the novel.
  • The satire in J. Swift’s pamphlet “A Tale of a Tub.”
  • Different nations in “Gulliver’s Travels” by Jonathan Swift.
  • A. Pope’s “Windsor-Forest”: specifics of the arcadian motives and plot.
  • Satan, Adam, and Eve in “Paradise Lost” Poem by John Milton .
  • The primary functions of the “Don Quixote mask” in G. Fielding’s “Don Quixote in England.”
  • “Middlemarch” by G. Eliot: the problem of cognition in the novel.
  • Women in Shakespeare’s and Chaucer’s works.
  • Ideals and symbols in “The Corsair” by Byron.
  • Gender in “The Taming of the Shrew” by William Shakespeare .
  • The themes of literature and writing in the novel “The Black Prince” by I. Murdoch.
  • Symbols in the novel “David Copperfield” by C. Dickens.
  • Shakespearean Hamlet’s character analysis.
  • “The Quiet American” by G. Greene: love and duty motives.
  • Costumes, mood, and tone in the play “Macbeth” by Shakespeare .
  • The specifics of the sentimentalism in R. Burn’s poetry.
  • English romanticism traditions in “The Wuthering Heights.”
  • Romeo from “Romeo and Juliet” by Shakespeare.
  • The themes of unity and alienation in “The Wuthering Heights” by E. Bronte.
  • The inner and outer beauty in Ch. Bronte’s “Jane Air.”
  • “To Be or Not to Be”: Prominent Phrase Analysis.
  • Egoism and altruism in “Oliver Twist” by C. Dickens.
  • Themes in “Goodbye to Berlin” by Christopher Isherwood .
  • Social problematics in the novel “Bleak House” by C. Dickens.
  • The themes of the ambitions and happiness in the novel “Big Expectations” by Charles Dickens.
  • “Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens: characters, themes, and stylistic choices.
  • Gender issues in the novel “Big Expectations” by Charles Dickens.
  • The issues of female emancipation in the novel “The Mill on the Floss” by G. Eliot.
  • The role of the Bible in “Paradise Lost” by John Milton .
  • The narrator’s role in the novel “The Code of the Woosters” by P. Woodhouse.
  • The role of the detective storyline in G. Greene’s “Brighton Rock.”
  • Gender and Sexuality in William Shakespeare’s plays.
  • Tradition and personality in the novel “1984” by G. Orwell.
  • H. Hesse “Steppenwolf”: the spiritual quest of the characters.
  • Existential searching in the novel “The Glass Bead Game” by H. Hesse.
  • Candide and Pangloss characters and relationship analysis .
  • Umberto Eco’s “The Name of the Rose” as a historical novel of a peculiar style.
  • The meaning of laughter in Umberto Eco’s “The Name of the Rose.”
  • Is Umberto Eco’s “The Name of the Rose” a detective novel?
  • The problematics of the book “Foucault’s Pendulum” by U. Eco.
  • The image of Beatrice in Dante’s “Divine Comedy.”
  • Oedipus: Sophocles’ character.
  • Dante’s “Divine Comedy”: the system of characters and level of perception.
  • The specifics of narrative style in M. Proust’s “In Search of Lost Time.”
  • The problematic characters in the novel “The End of the Night” by F. Mauriac.
  • Therese Desqueyroux by François Mauriac: the image of family as a cage.
  • “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles: fate versus character.
  • The rebel against injustice in Albert Camus’ “The Myth of Sisyphus.”
  • The theme of alienation in Albert Camus’ “The Stranger.”
  • The motives of doom of time and man in Gottfried Benn’s poetry.
  • How does Thomas Mann show the decay of the burgher’s social class in “Buddenbrooks”?
  • The genre of a family saga in Thomas Mann’s “Buddenbrooks.”
  • Prophecy and fate. “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles.
  • The creativity collapse in “Doctor Faustus” by T. Mann.
  • The tragedy of the genius in B. Brecht’s “The Life of Galileo.”
  • B. Brecht’s “The Life of Galileo”: the moral dilemma between genius and villainy.
  • The theme of metamorphosis in the novel “The Trial” by F. Kafka.
  • Autobiographical family drama in the novel “Metamorphosis” by F. Kafka.
  • The themes of alienation and loneliness in Franz Kafka’s novel “Metamorphosis.”
  • An individual in the society in the novel “A Man without qualities” by Robert Musil.
  • Jaroslav Hashek’s “The Fate of the Good Soldier Švejk During the World War”: the denial of war and perception of it as madness.
  • The symbol of the sick people in The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka .
  • The corruptive influence of the army in Jaroslav Hashek’s “The Fate of the Good Soldier Švejk During the World War.”
  • Pacifistic motives in Karel Chapek’s work “Salamander War.”
  • The prophecy of historical events in Karel Capek’s novel “Salamander War.”
  • The theme of history in the poetry of Antonio Machado: Fields of Castile.
  • Federico Lorca’s Poet in New York: the problematics and style.
  • Federico Lorca’s Poet in New York: the image of New York and American reality.
  • The Thousand & One Nights: folk collection overview.
  • “Waiting for Godot” by Samuel Becket: autobiographical experience of occupied France.
  • “Waiting for Godot” by Samuel Becket: the peculiarities of language, speech, and dialogues .
  • Allegorical presentation of society in the play “Rhinoceros” by E. Ionesco.
  • “In the Labyrinth” by Alain Robbe-Grillet: what meaning does the detailed description of things have?
  • The features of anti-novel in the “Golden Fruits” by Natali Sarot.
  • “Oedipus the King” by Sophocles .
  • Patrick Suskind’s “Perfume” as a perfect example of a postmodernist novel.
  • The levels of the novel “Perfume” by Patrick Suskind.
  • Reflections on friendship and love in the novel “Hello Sadness” by Françoise Sagan.
  • The tragedy of disunity and loneliness in “The Time of Indifference” by Alberto Moravia.
  • Analysis of important quotations from A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen .
  • “The Time of Indifference” by Alberto Moravia: why do the characters remain static?
  • The image of Rome in the story cycle “Roman Tales” by A. Moravia.
  • Magic realism in the novel “100 Years of Solitude” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
  • “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Servantes: the “insanity” of the main character.
  • “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy: the concepts of love and duty.
  • The peculiarities of women characters in “The Trial” by Franz Kafka .
  • The theme of love in “Madame Bovary” by Gustave Flaubert.
  • “The Dog in the Manger” by Lope De Vega: the specifics of Italian comedy.
  • Voltaire’s “Candid” : forming of individual personality .
  • The concept of the Enlightenment person in Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s “Emile, or On Education.”
  • Goethe’s “Faust”: biblical references.
  • The peculiarities and imagery of F. Schiller’s poetry.
  • The ideological and artistic uniqueness of H. Heine’s poetry .
  • The genuineness of historical figures in “Danton’s Death” by George Buchner.
  • The theme of love in “All Quiet on the Western Front” by Erich Maria Remarque.
  • The lost generation theme in “All Quiet on the Western Front” by Erich Maria Remarque.
  • Identity formation in “Persepolis” by Satrapi .
  • Analysis of Things Fall Apart , a novel by Chinua Achebe .
  • Comfort Woman by Nora Okja Keller: Summary & themes .
  • Cultural clash in “Dead Men’s Path” by Chinua Achebe .
  • Igbo society in Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe .
  • The theme of virtue in “The Tale of Kieu” by Nguyen Du .
  • Women’s struggles in “Three Daughters of China” by Jung Chang .
  • The character of Okonkwo in Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe .
  • The Ramayana of Valmiki , translated by Ralph T. H. Griffith .
  • Personal mythology based on “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe .
  • The theme of love in the Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini .
  • Vietnam War in Last Night I Dreamed of Peace by Dang Thuy Tram .
  • “The Remains of the Day” by Kazuo Ishiguro .

🔗 References

  • How to write a literary analysis essay | Bucks County Community College
  • A short guide to close reading for literary analysis; The Writing Center; UW – Madison
  • University Writing Center – Literary Analysis
  • How to write literary analysis – Sparknotes
  • University Writing Center (UWC) – Analyzing Novels & Short Stories
  • Writing Prompts for Analyzing Fiction // Purdue Writing Lab
  • Summary vs. Analysis | UAGC Writing Center
  • Teaching Literary Analysis | Edutopia
  • Writing a Literary Analysis – English Resources – Resources by Subject at C. G. O’Kelly Library

414 Proposal Essay Topics for Projects, Research, & Proposal Arguments

725 research proposal topics & title ideas in education, psychology, business, & more.

African American Literature Research Paper Topics

Academic Writing Service

This article provides a comprehensive guide to African American literature research paper topics , highlighting the depth and richness of this vibrant literary tradition. From historical narratives of slavery and the Harlem Renaissance to modern themes and the future of Black literature, the piece offers a structured approach for students seeking research directions. In addition to topic suggestions, it offers insights into selecting the perfect topic, crafting a compelling research paper, and the invaluable services provided by iResearchNet. Whether a novice or an expert, this article serves as a definitive resource for delving into the heart of African American literary discourse.

100 African American Literature Research Paper Topics

African American literature, with its rich tapestry of experiences, histories, cultural shifts, and iconic personalities, provides fertile ground for research. As students and scholars navigate this field, the potential for discovering nuanced arguments and insights is boundless. Here is a comprehensive list divided into ten categories, each boasting ten intriguing African American literature research paper topics that could shape your next research paper:

Academic Writing, Editing, Proofreading, And Problem Solving Services

Get 10% off with 24start discount code.

1. Historical Contexts:

  • The Evolution of African American Literature from the 18th to the 21st Century.
  • Literature of the Slavery Era: Voices of the Enslaved.
  • The Harlem Renaissance: A Golden Age of Black Artistry.
  • African American Literature during the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Black Arts Movement: Literature as a Form of Protest.
  • Depictions of Jim Crow Laws in African American Fiction.
  • The Great Migration and its Influence on Black Writers.
  • The Impact of the Reconstruction Era on African American Narratives.
  • Literature of the Black Power Movement.
  • WWII and the Portrayal of African American Soldiers in Literature.

2. Iconic Writers and their Works:

  • The Universal Themes in Langston Hughes’ Poetry.
  • Zora Neale Hurston’s Ethnographic Approach in “Their Eyes Were Watching God”.
  • The Dual Consciousness in W.E.B. Du Bois’ Literary Works.
  • Maya Angelou: Literature as a Tool for Healing and Empowerment.
  • The Metaphorical Landscape of Toni Morrison’s “Beloved”.
  • Ralph Ellison’s “Invisible Man”: An Exploration of Identity and Culture.
  • James Baldwin’s Commentary on Race and Sexuality.
  • Richard Wright’s Realistic Portrayal of Black Life.
  • The Influence of African Culture in the Works of Chinua Achebe.
  • August Wilson’s Ten-Play Series: A Chronicle of the Black Experience in America.

3. Genres and Styles:

  • African American Science Fiction and Speculative Fiction.
  • Jazz and Blues Influences in African American Poetry.
  • The Rise of African American Autobiographical Literature.
  • Black Drama and Theater: From the Page to the Stage.
  • African American Romance Novels: Love in a Complex Social Setting.
  • The Importance of Folktales and Myths in African American Short Stories.
  • The Evolution of the African American Novel.
  • Black Detective Fiction: Exploring Crime in the Inner City.
  • The Role of Spirituality in African American Literary Fiction.
  • African American Children’s Literature: Shaping Young Minds.

4. Themes and Motifs:

  • The Quest for Identity in African American Literature.
  • Love, Pain, and Resilience: Common Themes in Black Literature.
  • The Role of Religion and Spirituality in African American Narratives.
  • The Motif of the Tragic Mulatto in African American Literature.
  • The Role of Nature in African American Poetry.
  • The Intersection of Race and Gender in Black Women’s Literature.
  • The Concept of ‘Home’ and ‘Exile’ in African American Literature.
  • Literature’s Depiction of Black Masculinity and Femininity.
  • Economic Inequality in African American Fiction.
  • The African American Family Dynamic in Literature.

5. Modern and Contemporary Works:

  • Hip Hop Culture and its Influence on Modern Black Literature.
  • Contemporary African American Literature in the Digital Age.
  • The Role of Literature in the Black Lives Matter Movement.
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Modern African American Literature.
  • The Influence of African American Literature on Modern Pop Culture.
  • Black Literature in the Post-Obama Era.
  • African American Literature’s Response to Police Brutality.
  • The Influence of Social Media on African American Poetry.
  • African American Literature in the Age of Globalization.
  • The Future Trajectories of African American Literature.

6. Comparative Literature:

  • African vs. African American Literature: Themes and Differences.
  • African American Literature in relation to Latin American Literary Movements.
  • The Shared Themes of Oppression in Black and Indigenous Literatures.
  • Comparative Analysis of Black Literature from Different Continents.
  • African American and Asian American Literature: Intersections of Race and Identity.
  • Parallels between African American Literature and South African Apartheid Literature.
  • The Influence of British Literature on African American Writers.
  • Themes of Resistance: African American and Palestinian Literatures.
  • African American Literature and the Caribbean Literary Tradition.
  • Shared Struggles: African American and Irish Literature.

7. Adaptations and Influence:

  • The Impact of African American Literature on Hollywood.
  • Stage Adaptations of Iconic African American Literary Works.
  • The Influence of Black Literature on Music, especially Hip Hop and R&B.
  • How African American Literature Shaped Modern Fashion Trends.
  • African American Literature’s Influence on Visual Arts.
  • The Role of African American Literature in Academic Curricula.
  • The Adaptation of African American Novels into Graphic Novels and Comics.
  • Television Series Inspired by African American Literary Classics.
  • The Global Impact of African American Literature.
  • African American Literature in Multimedia: From Video Games to Virtual Reality.

8. Critical Theories and African American Literature:

  • Postcolonial Readings of African American Texts.
  • Feminist Approaches to Black Women’s Literature.
  • Queer Theory and African American Literary Criticism.
  • Marxist Interpretations of African American Literature.
  • Applying Psychoanalytic Theory to Black Literary Works.
  • Deconstructing Race: Structuralism and African American Texts.
  • African American Literature through the Lens of Critical Race Theory.
  • The Eco-critical Reading of African American Nature Poetry.
  • Posthumanism and African American Science Fiction.
  • African American Literature and the Postmodernist Approach.

9. Literature and Activism:

  • Literature as a Tool for Social Change in the Civil Rights Era.
  • The Black Arts Movement: Artistry and Activism Hand in Hand.
  • Writers as Activists: The Dual Roles of Iconic African American Authors.
  • The Role of Journals and Magazines in Promoting Black Literary Activism.
  • African American Literature and Environmental Activism.
  • Black Literature’s Response to the Prison Industrial Complex.
  • African American Literature’s Role in Feminist Movements.
  • Literature’s Response to Racial Health Disparities.
  • African American Literature and Economic Justice Activism.
  • The Influence of Black Literary Societies in Advocating for Equality.

10. Pedagogical Approaches:

  • Teaching African American Literature in High School: Benefits and Challenges.
  • Incorporating Black Literature into a Diverse College Curriculum.
  • The Role of African American Literature in Promoting Critical Thinking.
  • Strategies for Making African American Texts Relatable to Non-Black Students.
  • The Importance of Context when Teaching Historical African American Texts.
  • Interactive Methods for Teaching African American Poetry.
  • Utilizing Multimedia Tools in Teaching Contemporary Black Literature.
  • Addressing Controversial Topics in African American Literature in the Classroom.
  • The Role of African American Literature in Promoting Empathy and Cultural Awareness.
  • Evaluative Techniques for Assessing Understanding of African American Literary Themes.

This list, while comprehensive, is but a starting point. The expansive nature of African American literature ensures that scholars and students alike can find a topic that resonates deeply with their interests and academic pursuits. Whether you’re delving into historical narratives, analyzing literary techniques, or examining the socio-cultural impacts of certain works, African American literature offers a profound journey of discovery.

African American Literature

And the range of research paper topics it offers.

African American literature, rooted deeply in the history and experiences of a people who faced extreme adversity, has evolved into a potent voice of resilience, creativity, and resistance. This vast literary field mirrors the collective struggle for identity, civil rights, and cultural acknowledgment, echoing centuries of pain, hopes, dreams, and triumphs.

The genesis of African American literature lies in the evocative spirituals, work songs, and oral traditions passed through generations. These were more than just rhythmic tunes or recounted tales; they were resonant chronicles of anguish, desire for freedom, and an indomitable spirit. The oral traditions of storytelling, tracing back to African roots, relayed stories of ancestors, imparted wisdom, and offered hope in times of despair. With the transition from the African continent to the Americas due to the brutalities of the transatlantic slave trade, these stories underwent a metamorphosis, reflecting the new harrowing realities of life in chains.

As the nation approached and then moved past the Emancipation Proclamation, written narratives began to emerge. Autobiographies and firsthand accounts of life under the yoke of slavery became a literary weapon. Works such as Frederick Douglass’s “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave” and Harriet Jacobs’ “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl” provided chilling glimpses into the inhumanity of slavery. These narratives, while highlighting the horrors, also emphasized the resilience and determination of those who resisted and survived.

The dawn of the 20th century saw the emergence of the Harlem Renaissance, a glorious epoch where African American culture, especially literature, blossomed in full splendor. This was not merely a literary movement; it was a cultural reawakening. Writers like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Claude McKay began exploring themes of racial pride, urbanization, and the nuances of the Black experience in America. Their writings, be it poetry, novels, or essays, encapsulated a newfound cultural confidence and an unapologetic embrace of Black heritage.

The subsequent decades, especially the tumultuous 1960s and the Civil Rights era, bore witness to literature that was heavily activist in tone. Authors like James Baldwin, with his incisive commentary on race and sexuality, and Toni Morrison, with her profound explorations of Black identity and trauma, set the literary world alight. Maya Angelou’s autobiographical works celebrated Black womanhood’s multifaceted nature, while Ralph Ellison’s “Invisible Man” laid bare the intricacies of racial invisibility and identity.

Contemporary African American literature continues to evolve, breaking new ground and venturing into previously uncharted territories. Octavia Butler’s foray into science fiction challenges racial and gender norms, while Colson Whitehead’s speculative narratives provide alternative historical perspectives with profound insights.

Given this vast and layered literary canvas, the spectrum of African American literature research paper topics is boundless. Scholars and students can journey through historical epochs, understanding the societal shifts and their implications on literary themes. They can dissect the works of iconic figures, charting their evolution and impact. Themes like migration, urbanization, love, trauma, and racial identity recur across eras, offering opportunities for comparative studies. Moreover, the adaptability of African American literature in various media forms, from the silver screen to haunting melodies, presents a multidisciplinary approach for research.

In essence, African American literature stands as a monumental testament to a people’s journey from chains to freedom, from invisibility to acknowledgment. It offers a plethora of avenues for academic exploration, ensuring that every research endeavor within its realm is a deep dive into cultural, historical, and literary richness.

How to Choose African American Literature Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right research topic is akin to embarking on a literary journey. When you’re venturing into the vast realm of African American literature, the sheer depth and diversity of potential subjects can be both inspiring and overwhelming. How do you zero in on a topic that not only captivates your interest but also offers scope for extensive research and fresh insights? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this important decision-making process.

  • Understand the Purpose: Before anything else, clarify the objective of your research paper. Is it to critically analyze a specific work or author? Perhaps you’re aiming to explore broader themes or trends across decades or genres. Having a clear understanding of your research goal will significantly narrow down your topic options.
  • Dive into Preliminary Reading: Engage with primary texts, anthologies, and critical essays to familiarize yourself with the landscape of African American literature. This initial exploration will introduce you to recurring themes, influential authors, historical contexts, and evolving narratives.
  • Identify Your Passion: What moves you? Is it the raw emotion in Maya Angelou’s poetry, the speculative realms created by Octavia Butler, or the historical intricacies in the works of Colson Whitehead? A topic that you’re genuinely passionate about will make the research process more engaging and rewarding.
  • Consult Secondary Sources: Academic journals, critiques, and theses offer critical discussions on various African American literature research paper topics. These can inspire new perspectives or help refine your chosen subject.
  • Check for Feasibility: A topic might be intriguing, but it’s essential to ensure there’s enough information available for in-depth research. Check libraries, online databases, and literary journals to see if your chosen topic has substantial resources and references.
  • Seek Diversity: African American literature is enriched by a multiplicity of voices – from urban tales to rural narratives, from historical accounts to futuristic visions. Consider exploring lesser-known authors or texts to bring fresh perspectives to your research.
  • Consider Interdisciplinary Approaches: African American literature often intersects with fields like history, sociology, music, and politics. An interdisciplinary approach can yield richer insights and set your paper apart.
  • Engage in Discussions: Conversations with peers, professors, or literary enthusiasts can spark new ideas or refine existing ones. They might introduce angles you hadn’t considered or highlight potential pitfalls in your chosen topic.
  • Stay Updated: The world of African American literature is dynamic. New critiques, interpretations, and discussions emerge regularly. Stay updated with the latest literary journals and forums to ensure your research is contemporary and relevant.
  • Revisit and Refine: Once you’ve chosen a topic, revisit it after a period of contemplation. Refining and narrowing it down further can lead to a more focused and impactful research paper.

The rich tapestry of literature offers a myriad of African American literature research paper topics for exploration. While the abundance of choices can be daunting, a systematic approach to topic selection can ensure that your research is not only academically rigorous but also personally fulfilling. Always remember that the journey of delving deep into literature, understanding nuances, and unearthing new perspectives is as rewarding as the final paper itself. Let your passion for the subject guide you, and you’re sure to embark on a memorable academic adventure.

How to Write an African American Literature Research Paper

Embarking on a research paper about African American literature is not just an academic endeavor, but a deep dive into a world of struggle, triumph, resilience, and unparalleled creative expression. This vast realm of literature is imbued with historical significance and offers profound insights into the Black experience in America. As you begin your scholarly journey, here are ten pivotal tips to guide you in crafting a compelling and insightful research paper.

  • Lay a Strong Foundation: Start with an illuminating introduction. A powerful opening, whether it’s a relevant quote from a notable African American author or a provocative question related to your topic, will engage your readers instantly. Following this, provide a brief backdrop of the historical or societal context relevant to your subject before zeroing in on your thesis statement.
  • Prioritize Organization: An organized structure is pivotal. Depending on the breadth of your topic, categorize your paper either chronologically, thematically, or based on specific authors and works. Incorporate clear subheadings to enhance readability.
  • Root Your Claims in Evidence: Every assertion or claim you make should be substantiated with concrete evidence, whether from primary texts, scholarly articles, or critical essays. Ensure all quotations and references are appropriately cited.
  • Embrace Multiple Angles: Present a comprehensive view of your topic by integrating various literary criticisms or perspectives. This showcases not only the depth of your research but also your holistic understanding of the subject.
  • Maintain Cohesiveness: Seamless transitions between sections and ideas are crucial. This ensures your paper reads fluidly, guiding your reader effortlessly from one point to the next.
  • Engage in Deep Analysis: Surface readings won’t suffice. Dive deep into the layers of the text, examining elements like symbolism, historical context, or character development. Understand the sociopolitical influences on the works you’re studying, be it the Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights Movement, or other significant epochs.
  • Conclude with Purpose: Your conclusion should not merely be a recap. While revisiting your main arguments is essential, also aim to provide a broader perspective, hinting at the broader implications of your research or suggesting potential avenues for further exploration.
  • Attention to Detail: Once your draft is complete, scrutinize it for clarity, logical flow, and coherence. Ensure that there are no grammatical or syntactical errors marring your work.
  • Consistent Citation: Depending on the prescribed format – APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard – ensure that every source, be it primary or secondary, is consistently and correctly cited. This lends credibility to your paper.
  • Seek Feedback: Before final submission, consider having your paper reviewed by peers, mentors, or educators. Fresh eyes can offer invaluable insights, catching oversights you might have missed.

In conclusion, delving into African American literature for research is both an honor and responsibility. The richness of this literary tradition offers a unique lens into the Black experience, a testament to centuries of resilience, creativity, and cultural evolution. As you put pen to paper, remember that you’re not just crafting an academic document but contributing to a dialogue that spans generations. With passion, diligence, and adherence to these guidelines, your research paper will undoubtedly stand as a commendable addition to this ongoing conversation.

iResearchNet Writing Services

For custom african american literature research paper.

Delving into the intricate tapestry of African American literature can be a challenging yet immensely rewarding task. While the endeavor demands patience, precision, and a profound understanding of literary nuances, not every student has the resources or expertise to craft an impeccable research paper. This is where iResearchNet comes into play, bridging the gap between ambition and excellence. Let’s explore the multifaceted offerings of iResearchNet that can elevate your African American literature research paper to unparalleled heights.

  • Expert Degree-Holding Writers: iResearchNet boasts a team of professional writers who hold advanced degrees in literature, with a specialization in African American literature. These experts bring to the table their vast knowledge, experience, and passion, ensuring your research paper is in the hands of those who understand the subject’s depth and breadth.
  • Custom Written Works: Every paper penned by iResearchNet is crafted from scratch. Our writers ensure that your research paper is tailored to your specific needs, unique in content, and free from plagiarism.
  • In-Depth Research: A quality research paper is rooted in extensive research. Our writers plunge deep into scholarly resources, ensuring the paper encapsulates a variety of perspectives, critical commentaries, and a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
  • Custom Formatting: Be it APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, or Harvard, our team is adept at all major formatting styles. This guarantees your paper not only reads impeccably but also looks professional and adheres to your institution’s guidelines.
  • Top Quality: iResearchNet prides itself on delivering premium quality work. Every paper undergoes rigorous quality checks, ensuring it meets the highest academic standards.
  • Customized Solutions: Recognizing that every student’s needs are unique, iResearchNet offers tailored solutions. Whether it’s a specific focus area within African American literature or a comparative analysis with another literary tradition, our writers mold the paper as per your directives.
  • Flexible Pricing: We understand the financial constraints students often face. Hence, our pricing structures are designed to be student-friendly, ensuring quality doesn’t become a strain on your pocket.
  • Short Deadlines up to 3 Hours: Last-minute assignment? Don’t fret. Our experts are trained to handle tight schedules, delivering top-notch papers even with deadlines as short as three hours.
  • Timely Delivery: Punctuality is a cornerstone of our services. No matter the complexity or length of your research paper, rest assured it will be in your inbox by the promised deadline.
  • 24/7 Support: Questions, clarifications, or last-minute changes? Our dedicated support team is available round the clock, ensuring seamless communication and prompt resolutions.
  • Absolute Privacy: We uphold a strict confidentiality policy, guaranteeing that your personal information and the details of your assignment remain private at all times.
  • Easy Order Tracking: With our user-friendly platform, track your order’s progress in real-time, ensuring transparency and peace of mind.
  • Money-Back Guarantee: iResearchNet stands by the quality of its services. If, for any reason, your delivered paper doesn’t align with your initial requirements, our money-back guarantee ensures you’re not left at a disadvantage.

To wrap it up, African American literature, with its vastness and intricacies, demands more than just surface-level understanding. It requires deep reverence, a meticulous approach, and a genuine appreciation of its legacy. With iResearchNet by your side, you’re not just getting a paper; you’re gaining a partner in your academic journey. Let us shoulder the load, ensuring your research paper on African American literature is nothing short of exemplary.

Embark on a Literary Exploration of Black Voices with iResearchNet

African American literature stands as a testament to centuries of resilience, brilliance, and a ceaseless quest for justice. The voices that reverberate through these texts tell tales of struggles and triumphs, offering profound insights into the African American experience. But to decipher and delve deep into these narratives requires dedication, an eye for detail, and an understanding of the socio-historical context.

But what if you had a companion on this journey? A guide to help you navigate the complexities, understand the nuances, and truly appreciate the power of black voices in literature?

That’s where iResearchNet steps in.

With iResearchNet, you’re not just commissioning a paper. You’re investing in a partnership with literary aficionados, experts who’ve dedicated their lives to literature and are passionate about sharing their knowledge. Our team is your bridge to understanding African American literature, ensuring your research is not only academically sound but also deeply insightful.

Yet, there’s more. Our commitment goes beyond delivering a research paper. It’s about fostering a love for literature, kindling curiosity, and ensuring you emerge with a richer understanding and appreciation of African American narratives.

So, why wait? Dive deep into the captivating world of African American literature with a team that’s as passionate about the subject as you are. Embark on this enlightening journey, amplify the voices that need to be heard, and let iResearchNet be your beacon on this literary exploration.

Take the first step towards excellence. Connect with iResearchNet today and let the stories of African American literature unfold before you.

ORDER HIGH QUALITY CUSTOM PAPER

american literature topics for research paper

IMAGES

  1. Research Paper Topics for American Literature

    american literature topics for research paper

  2. American Literature and Research

    american literature topics for research paper

  3. Sample Literary Research Essay

    american literature topics for research paper

  4. 180 Engaging Literary Research Topics to Focus On

    american literature topics for research paper

  5. 🎉 American literature topics. 152 Literary Research Topics can

    american literature topics for research paper

  6. 😎 American literature thesis topics. Argumentative Thesis Creator

    american literature topics for research paper

VIDEO

  1. Online Workshop on Research Paper Writing & Publishing Day 1

  2. Online Workshop on Research Paper Writing & Publishing Day 2

  3. Characteristics of American Literature

  4. Choosing A Research Topic

  5. 📔 Top 15 Ways To Avoid Rejection of Your Research Paper By Journals

  6. How to select a research topic for an Article and Thesis

COMMENTS

  1. American Literature Research Paper Topics

    100 American Literature Research Paper Topics. American literature, a vast and diverse field, encompasses a range of themes, styles, and epochs. From the colonial tales of the early settlers to the modern narratives of the 21st century, the U.S. literary canvas is as broad as the country's history. This comprehensive list offers a variety of ...

  2. 50 American Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas

    The topic also invites readers or will repel them. The topic plays a huge role during grading. Above all, it will determine the perception with which readers approach your paper. There are many research paper topics American literature you can consider in your writing. When asked to pick a topic for your paper, here are a few considerations to ...

  3. 100+ Excellent Literature Research Paper Topics

    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.

  4. 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.

  5. Top 300 Engaging Literature Research Paper Topics

    Top 20 Research Paper Topics On Environmental Literature. Ecocriticism: Exploring Nature in Literature. Environmental Activism in Literary Works. Wilderness and the American Imagination in Literature. Climate Change Narratives in Environmental Literature. Nature Writing and the Natural World in Literature. Urban Ecology in Literary Works.

  6. 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.

  7. 275 Good Literature Research Paper Topics & Ideas

    Simple Literature Research Paper Topics. Love Themes in "Romeo and Juliet". "Pride and Prejudice": A Study of Class Differences. Symbolism in Classics: "The Old Man and the Sea". Epistolary Style in "Dracula": Advantages and Limitations. Human Nature in "Lord of the Flies". Nature Imagery in Wordsworth's Poetry.

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

    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.

  9. 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.

  10. English 2327--american Literature I Research Paper Topics

    RESEARCH PAPER TOPICS. You are encouraged to develop your own topic for your term paper, but if you are unable to do so you may choose a topic from the list below. If you choose a topic from the list you do not have to discuss it with me before beginning work. However, if you decide to create your own topic, please clear it with me first.

  11. Best Literature Research Paper Topics [with Tips]

    Often, teachers ask students to research a particular piece of American literature. This is a tricky task because a huge number of different directions, currents, and authors might seem confusing. Our team has prepared the top 10 American literature research paper topics that you can use to write an essay that will impress your teacher.

  12. 75 Best Literature Research Paper Topic Ideas

    How the revolutionary period of 1765 to 1789 defines freedom for America. The role of James Fennimore Cooper in enhancing nationalism. Moral ambiguity lessons during the American renaissance period. African Influence and Realism in Harriet Beecher Stowe's book. Social perception of contemporary American literature.

  13. Top 150 Literature Research Paper Topics For A Brilliant Essay

    The topics below will help you understand the basic issues a common woman faced in different centuries, as well as discover the most impressive literature masterpieces created by female writers. The Aged Mother: Criticism Essay. The Story Of An Hour By Kate Chopin: Response Paper.

  14. 113 Great Research Paper Topics

    113 Great Research Paper Topics. One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily ...

  15. Research Paper Topics for American Literature

    The American Renaissance is a period in literary history -- set between 1830 and 1870 -- in which Oliver Wendell Holmes, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Ralph Waldo Emerson are major characters. Research paper topics for American literature often provide opportunities for instructors to assign papers on Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter."

  16. Literature Topics and Research

    A comparison/contrast of the choices different authors or characters make in a work. A reading of a work based on an outside philosophical perspective (Ex. how would a Freudian read Hamlet ?) A study of the sources or historical events that occasioned a particular work (Ex. comparing G.B. Shaw's Pygmalion with the original Greek myth of ...

  17. Explore the Lists of Amazing Literary Research Paper Topics

    Existentialist Literary Research Topics. Dig into the deep thinking, self-examination, and emotions of uncertainty that come with exploring the works of important writers trying to figure out life, independence, and more. Here's the list. The post-war emergence of existentialism.

  18. Literary Analysis Research Paper Topics

    When students engage with literary analysis research paper topics, they not only learn about literature but also embark on a journey to understand the multi-faceted nature of human existence. At the core of literary analysis lies the art of interpretation. Unlike mere reading, analysis demands a more meticulous, structured, and critical approach.

  19. 221 Literary Research Paper Topics To Inspire You

    Literary topics are diverse. This can make it hectic to choose an appropriate one for your research paper. Discuss the most important work of Shakespeare. Describe the gothic novel's gender representation. The effect of social media language on learners. The travails of the African woman.

  20. Top 100 Literary Research Paper Topics

    Take a look at our list of the best 10 literary analysis essay topics ever and select the one you like. Remember, all these topics are original (at the time of writing): Describe literature as a part of the modern culture. Daoism in modern Chinese literature. Feminism in contemporary literature. Don Quixote's most important personality traits.

  21. 1000 Literature Thesis Topics and Ideas

    This page provides a comprehensive list of literature thesis topics, offering a valuable resource for students tasked with writing a thesis in the field of literature.Designed to cater to a wide array of literary interests and academic inquiries, the topics are organized into 25 diverse categories, ranging from African American Literature to Young Adult Literature.

  22. Literary Analysis: Essay Prompts, Outline, & American Literature Topics

    Overview. The literary analysis aims at solving the mysteries of a book using one's critical thinking. When analyzing a novel, you can see how all those characters, places, objects, and events obtain new senses. Any literature work consists of thousands of micro-details that require close reading in the first place.

  23. African American Literature Research Paper Topics

    100 African American Literature Research Paper Topics. African American literature, with its rich tapestry of experiences, histories, cultural shifts, and iconic personalities, provides fertile ground for research. As students and scholars navigate this field, the potential for discovering nuanced arguments and insights is boundless.