Bishop 1

Writing Prompt for Frankenstein

(Prompt 2)
The language in Frankenstein seems purely a product of its time. When compared to
Modern English today, more specifically American English, it comes off as slightly archaic and
somewhat verbotic. For example, take this passage from Frankenstein where the monster is
talking to the old blind man. I am an unfortunate and deserted creature, I look around and I have
no relation or friend upon earth. These amiable people to whom I go have never seen me and
know little of me. I am full of fears, for if I fail there, I am an outcast in the world forever
(Shelley 159). If one were to say this with the English that we know today it would probably be
more simplified, mostly likely along the lines of I dont have anyone to love. I dont want to let
these people down, but I am afraid of what they might think of me, and that would be the end of
it. While I have grown to love the style of both prose and speaking of Shelley and authors like
her, most people do not have a taste for its somewhat expired ways. If simplification is the
defining pattern of English, from Shelleys time to present day, then it can be assumed this trend
will follow in the future.
(217 words)

Bishop 2

Works Cited
Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. New York: Signet Classics, 1963. Print.

Bishop 3

Writing Prompt for the Picture of Dorian Gray

(Prompt 3)
The men and women in The Picture of Dorian Gray seem very similar, moreso than one
might imagine at first glance. They all collectively, with a few exceptions, seem to represent one
theme throughout, that being superficiality. The names of patrons, lords, and ladies are easily
forgettable as they all seem to blend into one being. A pompous, nose in the air, and drunk on life
entity that seems not to have a care in the world is a good enough definition for most of the
miscellaneous characters in this story. There are a few exceptions of course. Sibyl, perhaps due
to her poor financial status, is separated from most of the women in this story. She comes off as a
bit foolish and nave, but truly innocent in heart. She presents a very soft personality and
likewise is very fragile. This is mostly shown when Dorian reacts coldly to her poor
performance. Her brother provides a sharp contrast. Being a sailor, almost a stereotype for the
gruff personality he brings, he is very stern, yet caring for his sister. The two contrasting
personalities favor each other well as far as the literary side of things is concerned. Lord Henry is
another interesting personality. While it may seem he shares a great deal of similar qualities to
most of the patricians of this Victorian society, he is quite different. He acts as a leader rather
than a follower, and doesnt really concern himself with others may think. It is for this reason
that he is both loved and hated. There are not many women aside from Sybil (if any) that are
worth analyzing in depth, due to the nature of the story. In terms of comparing this time
period/story setting to modern time, the aspect of the woman has evolved. With things such as
Feminism and Womens rights, the character of the woman has grown more independent and has
more depth to it. Simply put, it has changed greatly.

Bishop 4

(329 words)
Works Cited
Wilde, Oscar. The Picture of Dorian Gray. New York: Signet Classic, 1962. Print.

Bishop 5

Writing Prompt for the Hound of the Baskervilles

(Prompt 5)
In the Hound of the Baskervilles, most of the novel is spent on the moor in which Sir
Henry stays. The idea of the moor, or any rural setting like it, add many subtle touches to a story,
primarily that of archaism and isolation. The rural side of areas very often is associated with
what might be called Back-Water or Hill-Billy type people. These people arent necessarily
bad, but they come off as uncivilized homo-sapiens; a little bit more underdeveloped than those
who might be currently partaking in what the industrial age has created. With the lack of modern
ideas and creations it might almost seem as if one is in a different part of time. Isolation is also a
very clear idea that is presented with these somewhat ghoulish surroundings. Separated from
civilization, crime fighters, and most means of modern security, it is easy to feel uneasy when in
this type of setting. The hills around the Baskervilles castle are a very nice subtle nod to this
idea. They beg the question of who could be up in those hills. What can they see? These feelings
become most alive in the dead of night, when enshrouded in darkness it is almost impossible to
feel safe or secure.
(Word Count 208)

Bishop 6

Works Cited
Doyle, Arthur Conan. The Hound of the Baskervilles. New York: Dell, 1964. Print.