Regret in Literature: Exploring Themes in Oroonoko, A Modest Proposal, and Candide

QUESTION

Only readings listed on the syllabus by these authors are eligible for this first exam: Behn, Swift, Voltaire, Bashō, Equiano, Wordsworth, and Keats. At least ONE example has to come from the Week #3 readings (Equiano, Wordsworth, or Keats).

In most of the readings in the first three weeks, we see characters or writers in situations where they either regret or could potentially regret their actions or what happens to them. In your exam, use three examples from assigned texts to discuss how regret might play a role in the assigned texts (and your three examples cannot use the same author twice—for example, you cannot use both poems by Keats and count it as two of the three examples). Is there actual regret present in the text? Is it a situation where one might express regret for something that has happened and yet the character or writer does not? What does the acknowledgement or lack of acknowledgement of regret suggest about the writer, character, or situation? What does the text suggest about how we might face regretful situations or moments in our own lives?

Keep in mind that all of your examples do not have to be demonstrating the same type of regret. You could easily have one example where there is active regret in the story or poem and then two other examples where regret is lacking. It will entirely depend on what you see happening in the texts.

Length and Content Requirements

Your essay response must be a minimum of 750 words (there is no maximum, but try to avoid writing a book).

While you may use some of an author’s biography to make your point, keep in mind that your discussion should include a discussion of the texts we have read in class and not rely solely on biographical information.

This should be entirely your own argument, and you are not allowed to use any secondary material in this exam (your textbook or the version of the assigned text you are using is your only source).

As much as these are your own arguments, you should minimize your use of “I” unless absolutely necessary.

I would also argue against cutting and pasting information from your discussion posts and using that as the core content for your essays. If you choose to do so and heavily revise that content, it can work, but some students have used it as a shortcut method for completing the exam in the past, and it tends not to work well without carefully tailoring that information to the specific question posed below.

Formatting

Your exam must be in conventional essay format (contain an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion).

Any paraphrases or direct quotations of material from the texts you are using must be properly punctuated (clear use of quotation marks for direct quotations, for example) and must contain a parenthetical citation (in MLA or APA format) noting the page number of the material. There is no need for a works cited page if you’re using the assigned textbook, but if you’re using any other version of the assigned texts, you must provide a works cited page, noting full bibliographical information for your source material, with the submitted exam.

From these works, choose 3 examples.

Aphra Behn’s Oroonoko

Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal,”

Voltaire’s Candide

From The Narrow Road to the Deep North“

Equiano’s “From The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African, Written by Himself,”

Wordsworth’s “Ode on Intimations of Immortality” and “The World is Too Much With Us,”

Keats’ “Bright Star” and “Ode on a Grecian Urn,”

ANSWER

 Regret in Literature: Exploring Themes in Oroonoko, A Modest Proposal, and Candide

Introduction

Regret is a complex emotion that often permeates the works of literary geniuses. Characters and writers find themselves entangled in situations that lead to regrets or potential regrets. In this essay, we will delve into three assigned texts from the first three weeks of readings: Aphra Behn’s Oroonoko, Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal,” and Voltaire’s Candide. Each text offers unique insights into the presence or absence of regret, shedding light on the human experience and the ways in which we navigate regretful situations in our own lives.

Oroonoko – Aphra Behn

In Oroonoko, Aphra Behn explores the theme of regret through the tragic tale of an African prince sold into slavery. Regret is palpable in Oroonoko’s character as he reflects on his past glory and the loss of his freedom. The narrative depicts Oroonoko’s remorse for trusting the deceitful English colonizers and his longing for his homeland. The acknowledgment of regret in Oroonoko’s character highlights the devastating consequences of colonialism and the profound impact it has on individuals.

“A Modest Proposal” – Jonathan Swift

Jonathan Swift’s satirical essay “A Modest Proposal” presents a unique case where the writer himself does not express regret, but rather invites readers to contemplate the potential regret they might feel about societal issues. Swift employs irony to critique the callousness and indifference of the ruling class towards the impoverished Irish population. While Swift does not explicitly express regret, his intent is to provoke a sense of collective guilt and evoke a strong emotional response from readers. The absence of personal regret in the text serves as a vehicle for social criticism and highlights the power of literature to spark introspection and drive change.

Candide – Voltaire

In Voltaire’s Candide, regret is a recurring theme as the eponymous character navigates a tumultuous world filled with misfortune and disillusionment. Candide’s journey leads him through various tragic and absurd situations, often prompting him to reflect on the choices he has made and the consequences they entail. The novel portrays regret as an inherent part of the human condition, with characters facing the consequences of their actions and grappling with the realization that life is not as ideal as they once believed. Voltaire’s exploration of regret emphasizes the importance of resilience and personal growth in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

The presence or absence of regret in literary works serves as a reflection of the complexities of human experience. In Oroonoko, Aphra Behn portrays regret as a consequence of colonial exploitation. Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal” utilizes irony to provoke societal regret, encouraging readers to confront pressing issues. Voltaire’s Candide explores regret as an essential part of life’s journey, reminding us of the need for resilience in the face of adversity. These works highlight the significance of introspection and personal growth in navigating regretful situations in our own lives. Through literature, we gain insights into the human condition and are prompted to reflect on our actions and choices.