Requirements

• Develop a clear, arguable thesis that outlines Dickens's critique and the specific literary techniques you will explore.
• Support your argument with textual evidence (direct quotations and paraphrases) from the novel.
• Explore how Dickens portrays the world of Coketown and the Gradgrind household as representations of Utilitarian ideology.
• Consider at least one counterargument or complication — for instance, whether Dickens provides a convincing alternative to the system he critiques.
• Your essay should consist of 4–6 paragraphs (or as specified by your teacher).

Suggested Thesis Frame

> Through his use of [literary technique #1] and [literary technique #2], Dickens reveals that a society driven solely by facts and utility ultimately [claim about human consequence], suggesting that [broader thematic statement].

Guiding Questions to Consider Before Writing

• How do characters like Thomas Gradgrind, Sissy Jupe, and Stephen Blackpool embody or challenge Utilitarian values?
• What does Coketown's industrial landscape represent regarding the human cost of industrialization?
• In what ways does Dickens's narrative voice influence the reader's empathy and moral perspective?
• Does the novel's conclusion provide a satisfactory critique of the system it opposes, or does it fall short?

Guidelines

• Your essay should present a clear and debatable thesis that goes beyond merely summarizing the plot.
• Back up your argument with specific textual evidence, including direct quotes and detailed references to scenes.
• Discuss how Dickens's critique of Utilitarianism connects to larger themes of social justice, education, or human nature.
• You might also want to address and counter any arguments in favor of industry and rational thought.

Guidelines

• Your essay should feature a clear, debatable thesis in the introduction.
• Back up your argument with specific textual evidence (direct quotes and paraphrases).
• Discuss how Dickens offers an alternative to Utilitarianism through characters like Sissy Jupe or the Circus performers.
• Take into account the wider social and historical backdrop of industrialization during Victorian England.
• Aim for 4–6 paragraphs (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion).

Suggested Thesis Starter

> "Through his depiction of [character/setting/symbol], Dickens illustrates that a society driven exclusively by facts and utility ultimately [claim about human cost]..."