Monster Theory Review

  1. Thesis I. The Monster’s Body Is a Cultural Body (4)
  2. Thesis II. The Monster Always Escapes (4)
  3. Thesis III. The Monster Is the Harbinger of Category Crisis (6)
  4. Thesis IV. The Monster Dwells at the Gates of Difference (7)
  5. Thesis V. The Monster Polices the Borders of the Possible (12)
  6. Thesis VI. Fear of the Monster Is Really a Kind of Desire (16)
  7. Thesis VII. The Monster Stands at the Threshold . . . of Becoming (20)

Monster Theory Class Notes

In small groups, look at the seven theories to see which apply to Frankenstein and his Monster.

Use the quote sandwich to show the connection.

Quote Sandwich

  1. Introduce the quote
  2. Quote, relevant
  3. Explain Quotation

Example:

The concept of dragons evolved with people’s needs and desires. It follows the first of Cohen’s Monster Theses: The Monster’s Body is a Cultural Body. “The monster is born only at this metaphoric crossroads, as an embodiment of a certain cultural moment…” (Cohen 4). Each individual culture molded the dragon to its own desires and fears, be it Christian fear or Chinese mysticism (Quintero).

quotation sandwich

Purpose of Evaluations

The purpose of an evaluation is to form a judgment after a close critical reading. Your thesis should be your final judgment with supporting evidence.

Questions to consider:

  1. Did they give a final judgement? How do they judge it?
  2. Did they connect to monster theory?
  3. Is there any monster theories that you think connect that the author did not include? Make a note if there is any.
  4. Did they give background on the monster?
  5. Did they include quotes and citations?

Grading Criteria

Keep the grading criteria in mind when reviewing essays.

  • Critical Thinking
  • Clarity of Thought
  • Analysis of Monster
  • Use of sources and works cited
  • Images and Title

pace_workshops

Peer edit the same way you revise your own work. Work on the global, higher order concerns, first.

Be specific in identifying problems or opportunities. Point to places in the text where you notice something. Don’t say organization is confusing, show them where it is confusing.

Use clear sentences and thoughts when commenting. Don’t just say awkward, explain what it is you find awkward.

Offer suggestions for improvement. Don’t just criticize, offer suggestions for revision.

Praise what is good in the paper. What is working well? What did you like?

Keep comments tactful. Treat another’s work the way you would like yours to be treated.

Homework

  • Post your rough draft of essay 3
  • Peer review another students essay