The Merchant of Venice is a richly complicated and, to some, a deeply disturbing work. Several themes are presented within the framework of a traditional comedy that calls for the triumph of young lovers over their restrictive elders. Yet, the play, with its highly debated portrayal of the moneylender Shylock, resists easy categorization, incorporating elements of tragedy and romance in equal portion. This new edition of critical essays features an introduction by Shakespearean scholar Harold Bloom, a chronology of the Bard's life, a bibliography, and an index for quick reference
This supplement of American Writers, the twelfth, is largely concerned with a range of contemporary writers, poets, and novelists, many of whom have won large and enthusiastic audiences for their work, although criticism has yet to catch up with them. The function of these essays is quite simple: to provide introductory criticism that treats the developing career of each writer in the context of his or her life circumstances. While the essays are not necessarily mini-biographies, they all provide key markers in each life, and they suggest ways in which the books ...
Accepted! 50 Successful College Admission Essays, 3 Edition
Students will prepare powerful and successful admission essays with the tools provided in this invaluable, newly-updated resource for the college-bound. Examples of 50 real essays are included, discussing such topics as leadership, personal obstacles, athletics, public service, special talents, and future goals.
Harper Lee's To kill a mockingbird (Bloom's Guides)
Published in 1960 and awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1961, To Kill a Mockingbird explores the often-tenuous connections that bind a family and a community together. The coming-of-age tale of its young narrator, Jean Louise "Scout" Finch, of Maycomb, Alabama, is interwoven with explorations of the issues of prejudice, innocence, compassion, and hypocrisy. This new collection of critical essays examines this classic work, complete with an annotated bibliography
"The Bluest Eye" is one of Toni Morrison's most powerful novels. The Nobel laureate's debut is the story of Pecola Breedlove, a young black girl who prays for her eyes to turn blue so that she can resemble the children who live in a world that is barred to her. This guide to "The Bluest Eye" features excerpts of critical essays, an annotated bibliography, an index, and an introduction from esteemed professor Harold Bloom.
