Topic+1

Join the discussion by clicking on the box with the conversation bubbles that appears on the upper, right side (to the right of the edit button). Make sure that you are signed in, or you will not be able to post.

**TOPIC: Foils.** The following is a free-response essay prompt from the 2008 AP English Literature Exam. For this prompt, Mary Shelley's // Frankenstein // was a suggested work to choose to respond to the prompt. In the discussion, reflect different ways to respond to the prompt. Although you will surely discuss Victor and the creation as foils, you should extend your thinking beyond that pair as well.

In the discussion, students should feel free to bring up related ideas and link to other sources. (Perhaps topics you've learned in psychology classes would be particularly useful.) Please also tie your discussion back to the novel and quote from the novel, and to address other issues of duality in the novel. And remember that a discussion means that you post ideas, but that you also respond to the ideas of others.

In a literary work, a minor character, often known as a foil, possesses traits that emphasize, by contrast or comparison, the distinctive characteristics and qualities of the main character. For example, the ideas or behavior of a minor character might be used to highlight the weaknesses or strengths of the main character. Choose a novel or play in which a minor character serves as a foil for the main character. Then write an essay in which you analyze how the relation between the minor character and the major character illuminates the meaning of the work.