Certainly! Below is a structured outline for a narrative essay portfolio focused on the characterization of Miss Lottie from "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier.
Narrative Essay Portfolio Outline: Characterization of Miss Lottie
I. Introduction
- A. Hook: Introduce the idea of perception vs. reality; the way people judge others based on appearances.
- B. Thesis Statement: Miss Lottie, a seemingly eccentric old woman in “Marigolds,” embodies resilience and beauty, illustrating the profound connection between hardship and creativity.
II. Background Information on Miss Lottie
- A. Description of her physical appearance
-
- Old, frail figure with a weathered face that tells stories of a hard life.
-
- Contrast between her age and the vibrancy of the marigolds she cultivates.
-
- B. Overview of her living situation
-
- Lives in a dilapidated shack surrounded by poverty.
-
- The desolate environment contrasts with her colorful garden.
-
- C. Her role in the community
-
- Viewed with suspicion by the neighborhood children and adults.
-
- The impact of her presence on the villagers; often dismissed as crazy.
-
III. Sensory Language and Detailed Description
- A. Visual Imagery
-
- "Her hair, like wisps of gray smoke, danced about her face."
-
- "The garden, a splash of gold amidst the drabness, held marigolds that seemed to glow."
-
- B. Olfactory Imagery
-
- The sweet, earthy scent of the marigolds contrasts with the musty smell of her home.
-
- C. Tactile Imagery
-
- The roughness of her hands, marked by years of labor, tells of her dedication to nurturing life amidst adversity.
-
- D. Auditory Imagery
-
- The sound of her laughter carrying through the air, bringing a moment of warmth to the cold, stark realities of life.
-
IV. Miss Lottie’s Resilience and Symbolism
- A. Emphasis on her love for marigolds
-
- Symbol of hope and beauty she nurtures despite her harsh surroundings.
-
- Represents a contrast between the ugliness of her reality and the beauty she creates.
-
- B. The lesson she teaches about compassion and understanding
-
- How her marigolds serve as a metaphor for innately human qualities—love, hope, and kindness.
-
V. Conclusion
- A. Reflect on the broader themes presented through Miss Lottie’s character.
- B. Restate the importance of looking beyond surface appearances to find deeper truths in people’s lives.
- C. Closing thoughts: Miss Lottie’s marigolds serve as a reminder of resilience, beauty, and the strength that can be found in even the most challenging circumstances.
Tips for Writing the Essay
- Use vivid sensory language to paint a picture of Miss Lottie and her environment.
- Ensure to weave in quotes from the text for support and evidence.
- Emphasize the importance of perspective in understanding Miss Lottie's character.
- Reflect on how your understanding of Miss Lottie may change as the narrative progresses.
This outline should provide a solid structure for your narrative essay on Miss Lottie’s characterization, utilizing vivid sensory language and deep analysis.
1 answer