Description
Select ONE of the following essay topics: Discuss the theme of PTSD (or traumatic memory) in A Gesture Life or Maus. Explain why you think Hata or Vladek is suffering from PTSD? Explain how the past influences the present in either novel. Who were the “comfort women” and how were they dehumanized by the soldiers (as depicted in A Gesture Life). Add research to support your discussion. How were Jewish people dehumanized in WWII? Use evidence and examples from Spiegelman’s novel to support your discussion. Discuss the symbols and their meaning in A Gesture Life. Ex. A black flag, a failing business, a sick boy, a swimming pool, a beautiful house, an adopted child, etc. Discuss the animal allegory in Maus. Explain why Spiegelman used animals strategically in Maus to convey certain ideas about WWII. Discuss the qualities of a Japanese Imperial soldier and use evidence from A Gesture Life to support your discussion. (Research should be used to support your discussion) Why do you think Hata’s relationship with Sunny is so strained? Explain your answer. Why do you think Vladek’s relationship with Art is so strained? Explain your answer.