Pre-writing tip

Think about the Judge's statement that "War is god"—do you interpret this as McCarthy supporting, criticizing, or merely illustrating this perspective? Your interpretation will inform your main argument.

Your essay should:

• Articulate a clear, defensible thesis that expresses your position on McCarthy's perspective regarding the Judge's philosophy.
• Utilize at least three specific passages or scenes from the novel as supporting evidence.
• Analyze how literary devices — such as biblical allusion, the sublime landscape, or the Kid's silence — either strengthen or challenge the Judge's worldview.
• Consider a counterargument: reflect on how a reader might interpret McCarthy's stark portrayal of violence as a form of endorsement, and explain why your interpretation is more compelling.

Guiding Questions to Consider Before Writing

• What does the Judge imply when he states, "Whatever in creation exists without my knowledge exists without my consent"? How does this relate to the wider themes of the novel?
• In what ways does McCarthy's prose style (biblical cadence, absence of punctuation, stark imagery) enhance the thematic elements?
• Does the novel support the Judge's perspective, critique it, or maintain a sense of ambiguity? How does your interpretation of the ending reinforce your argument?

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 paragraphs (introduction, 3 body paragraphs, conclusion)
• At least 3 direct quotations from the text, properly cited
• Address at least one counterargument to your main claim
• Focus on textual analysis; refrain from summarizing the plot