Write an essay that analyzes one work of literature that you have read from the perspective of a quotation. In your essay, interpret the quotation and explain whether it applies to a work of literature you have read. Support your opinion using literary terms and elements as well as details from the text. Lens Quotation: "Character is what you are in the dark." -Deight Lyman Moody

There are many books in which I could pull from, but the best example would be The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien. Tolkien throws the reader into a mystical world set in Middle Earth. We are introduced with a Hobbit who enjoys a quaint simple life. Like many Hobbits, Bilbo Baggins does not like adventures, as it is not in their "nature." But Gandalf comes by to prove otherwise. During the novel, Bilbo is recruited by Gandalf to help a pack of Dwarves reclaim their lost home. When Bilbo accepted this journey, we are already seeing Bilbo's true colors coming through. Bilbo scurries along to meet the rest of his party as the entirety of Bag End shuns him. A great example of Bilbo's character in the dark is when he is literally in the dark. His quick thoughts are what saves him from being Gollum's next meal when he falls into his cave. Bilbo saved his own life that day because of his witty puzzles and quick actions against Gollum. At heart, Bilbo is an adventurer, just like the Took side of his family. With the help of a couple of new friends, Bilbo was able to show his "true character in the dark" to the world.

beginner

government is strong when they have the ability to persuade those they govern to believe government has enough power to force them or should be forcing them to do government’s will.

when enough of the citizenry do not believe government can force them or should force them to do its bidding, government has lost or will lose its strength and power to coerce.

when enough of the citizenry do believe government can force or should force them to do its bidding, they become passive at the least or actively pro-government and repeat government’s own rhetoric to pass on what they have been persuaded by government’s propaganda.

a true majority isn’t always needed to govern or to stop government. many times all that is needed is a strong minority. if a determined 30% of the population rises up against government in a concerted effort to bring it down, this size minority usually will succeed as long as those actively opposing the minority are less in force than the minority. so if 41% of the population sits at home watching tv rooting for one side or the other, they don’t matter. it’s the active parties who make a difference.

dramatic irony occurs when the reader/audience knows more about a character's situation than the character does. the one main effect is that it gives the reader a sense of superiority, or detached superiority. the reader not only seemingly discovers what is revealed, but feels superior for doing so.