Choose one of the following essay topics to develop into a thoughtful page essay in MLA format. DO use correct MLA citations and provide a Works Cited page for any references in your essay. Be certain to support your essay with specific examples from the play and be sure to cite quotations.
1. Symbolism: When symbolism is carefully drawn and used deliberately and with discretion in literature, the author proposes to the audience (or reader) concepts that underlie or reinforce the theme or develop and reveal character. Identify the major symbols in John Patrick Shanley's Doubt; discuss the context of each symbol as it is presented and explain its significance and contribution to the play as a whole. Symbolism from the film may be used; just indicate it is from the film. Also, one the best means of discussing symbolism is by the order in which it appears in the play/movie. Using chronological order prevents organizational flaws.
2. Changes: The "Preface" ends with the following quote: "The beginning of change is the moment of Doubt. It is the crucial moment when I renew my humanity or become a lie. Doubt requires more courage than conviction does." The play ends with Sister Aloysius in a crisis of doubt, not only doubt concerning the reason behind Father Flynn's promotion, but also concerning her own beliefs, perhaps questioning the methods she uses to achieve her goals, and her role in a church experiencing growth and change. Explain Sister Aloysius's initial worldview (when the play opens) and how the events and the other characters lead her to this crisis.
3. In addition to the disagreement concerning Donald Muller, Father Flynn and Sister Aloysius clash over other issues: their respective gender roles, the progressive view presented by Father Flynn, and the manner in which each character interacts with the students. Discuss each character's view on these matters and how these relatively minor disagreements fuel their argument over Donald Muller.
4. Discuss Shanley's decision to subtitle this play "A Parable." In what way are these characters intended to represent ideas he presents in his "Preface"? Shanley tells the story of Donald Muller and the two opposing adults, but deliberately leaves the reader (and his audience) in a state of doubt at the end of the drama. What is his purpose in doing so? How does the ending relate to the "Preface" and to the subtitle of the play?
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