This assignment requires you to construct a well-founded argument regarding the role of metaphors in explaining or describing illness, as illustrated in “Cutting for Stone” by Abraham Verghese and “Illness as a Metaphor” by Susan Sontag.
Instructions:
Introduction:
Introduce the topic of metaphors in the context of medical narratives.
Present a thesis statement that clearly takes a stance on whether metaphors and other figures of speech are essential for describing or explaining illness.
Body:
Argument Support:
Select two metaphors from “Cutting for Stone” that vividly describe medical conditions or the patient-physician relationship. Analyze how these metaphors contribute to a deeper understanding of the characters’ experiences and emotions.
Choose two metaphors from “Illness as a Metaphor” that address how society views different diseases. Discuss how Sontag’s metaphors reveal or challenge societal attitudes towards illness.
Evidence and Analysis:
Use examples from the texts to support your argument. Discuss how these metaphors enhance comprehension of complex medical issues or alter perceptions.
Incorporate at least two additional scholarly sources that either support or contradict your thesis to broaden the context of your argument.
Counterargument:
Briefly present a counterargument that challenges your thesis. This might involve discussing situations where metaphors could obscure or mislead understanding of medical facts.
Refute this counterargument with evidence or reasoning that reinforces your original thesis.
Conclusion:
Summarize the main points that support your thesis.
Conclude with reflections on the importance of understanding metaphors in medical literature for future healthcare professionals and literary scholars.
References:
Include a reference list formatted in APA style that cites all sources used in your essay, including primary texts and scholarly articles.
Submission Requirements:
Evaluation Criteria:
Minimum word count: 500 words.
Clarity and strength of the argument, including the thesis statement and conclusion.
Depth of analysis and insight into the use of metaphors in the texts.
Quality of sources and effectiveness of their integration into the argument.
Grammar, spelling, and adherence to APA formatting guidelines.
Cite all information that is not your own in APA style. You can find more information on citation here: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/
Include references at the end of the discussion in APA style