Length
1500-2000 words
Research
Secondary research is required for this assignment
Assignment Instructions
Write a formal, critical analysis of two travelogue texts by two different writers: one of the texts must be a travel narrative we have covered this term.
Consider one of the following topics as a starting point for your research:
The travel writers' cosmopolitan and/or colonial vision(s).
Travelling and pilgrimage or the similarities between travel writing and spiritual autobiographies. You could discuss the role of faith or religious/spiritual journeys.
Travel writing and the city. How is the city depicted and how do these writers evaluate the city? (You can focus on two writers’ descriptions of a particular city/country and discuss their varying or similar perspectives)
Interrogate the persona each travel writer constructs and its significance. That is, consider how the writer perceives him/herself and what feelings they want to produce in their readers. For example, Bryson presents himself as a goofy, fumbling, but ultimately good-natured American. Paul Theroux, on the other hand, comes across as prickly, but someone who is committed to assessing and documenting his surroundings.
Travel writing and gender. Is there a gendered component to writing travel narratives? How have women writers expanded the travel writing genre?
Travel writing and fiction. What is the role of fiction in travel writing?
Travel writing and eco-tourism
Travel writing and refugee memoirs
You may also propose your own topic on travel writing.
Secondary Research
Secondary research is required (2 materials – essays/articles from books/academic journals).
APA or MLA citation style is required.