Wednesday, May 20, 2015

FINAL ESSAY QUESTION

Sixth Grade Final Exam Essay Question

In an in-class essay, examine the themes of love, hope, self-sacrifice, and the value of human life that are explored in O Henry’s “The last Leaf.”  What was Mr. Behrman’s “masterpiece” in the story? Why was this a true masterpiece, as Sue titled it in the last line of the story?


In your introduction, define the concept of a masterpiece in your own terms and use examples of some classic “masterpieces” in art and literature. Then craft a thesis and an argument around how this painted leaf can be considered a “masterpiece.”  In your conclusion, redefine what true “art” or true “masterpieces” should be in terms of the sacrifice Behrman made, and the power of hope, humility, and the poignant value of human life this painting offers the characters and the readers at the end of the story.

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