Important Clarification of Homework

The Epilogue to Crime and Punishment:  An essential part of the artistic whole, or a "cheesy" addition that detracts from the novel's merit?

What you are writing for tomorrow is not so much an "essay" in the usual classroom sense of the word (a polished, "finished" product) but rather a piece that is closer to the verb assay and the Old French word from which "essay" is derived--"to attempt, or try."  You should still type (or write VERY legibly in dark ink), and your ideas and sentence structure should still reflect thoughtful good sense and support, but you are very much "trying out" your ideas in a position paper or "thought paper."

It is a fact that much critical ink has been spilled on the subject of the Epilogue, and I DON'T WANT YOU TO READ IT RIGHT NOW.  I most especially do not want you to read Sparks Notes. 

Instead, proceed like this:  Write up some quick notes that suggest your notion of the major theme(s) in the work as projected through tht six standard books.  Then read the Epilogue.  Did your ideas change?   In what way?  Why?  Do you see the same theme(s), but better?  Or do you see DIFFERENT themes?  Explain, justify, etc.     Even if you see differences, are they "better"?  Is the Epilogue "good writing" /"good literature" in your opinion?  Why or why not?  What are the differences in the writing itself?  Try to label/account for what you see, rather than my giving you a list of questions to respond to.  Whether you ultimately feel that the Epilogue adds or detracts from the value of the novel as a whole, be sure to think through the textual reasons that substantiate your opinion.

Now look over your notes, and compose a one to two page piece that responds to the inital question and justifies your thinking.

(P.S.  I have read Sparks Notes thoroughly.  I hope you haven't.)