Directions
Using your knowledge of This Side of Paradise, write an argumentative essay on whether or not you agree that the novel
should be considered part of the "quest" genre. Consider the conversation between Amory and Monsignor Darcy on
personality versus personage in book 1, chapter 3.
Defend your position/claim with at least three pieces of evidence considering elements of the quest genre and whether the
novel fits within them. Use direct quotes and examples from the text to support your evidence. Be sure to include a
discussion and refutation of the counterclaim.
Your essay should be at least 500 words in length, with a clear introduction and meaningful conclusion. Revise and edit for
grammar and mechanics before submitting. Consider organization, ideas, voice, sentence fluency, conventions, and word
choice. Follow MLA format for in-text citations and include a works-cited page.
Click here to view the rubric for this assignment

Read the passage. the dust bowl during the 1930s, extreme drought and high winds made life incredibly difficult in the great plains region of the united states. in many areas, rainfall was forty percent less than normal. the soil became extremely dry, and when strong winds blew, they created tremendous dust storms. these so-called “black blizzards” were so thick that they made daylight seem like dusk. during this terrible period, the great plains region of the united states was named the “dust bowl.” over the next few years, the drought continued, and the winds created more dust storms. in some places, the drought and high winds lasted for eight years. many people wondered if the black blizzards would ever end. which statement about this paragraph’s main idea is true? this paragraph’s main idea is stated in the topic sentence. there are not enough details to support the main idea. this paragraph’s main idea is implied. this paragraph does not express a main idea.