When writing about two complicated subjects, you often need to compare and contrast both subjects in order to come to a conclusion about one, the other, or both. For this paper, you will compare and contrast a particular element -character, setting, style, tone, etc. in two short stories The element is to be of your choosing -but choose two elements you feel have enough in common to compare but differ enough to throw each other into sharp relief -your paper must have a point. Give yourself enough room to explore each member of the pair to build adequate support, and above all remember you are comparing/contrasting not for the sake of pointing out similarities and listing differences, but to afford insight.
Herman Melville, “Bartleby, the Scrivener,” pg. 307
William Faulkner, “A Rose for Emily,” pg. 580
Both authors explore, through characters that do not necessarily fit their public personas, the nature and consequences of isolation. Does one offer more hope than another? Does one story offer more justification than another? Be specific with your evidence.