Example English dissertation topic 11:

The role of patriarchy and gender stereotyping in The Chronicles of Narnia

On one level the Chronicles of Narnia merely chart as tale of good versus evil through the eyes of children. However, when studied at a deeper level issues of patriarchy arise with regards to the roles of the princes and Asland. In addition, the roles and characterisation of the two princesses result in the books being gender stereotyped throughout with the girls being more helpless and caring in attitude whilst the boys are left to fight. This dissertation considers these issues with regards to feminist and patriarchal critiques of literature and in so doing offers a fresh assessment of the role of gender bias within the books.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Cecire, M. S. (2009), Medievalism, popular culture and national identity in children’s fantasy literature. Studies in Ethnicity and Nationalism, vol. 9, pp. 395-409
• Graham, J.E, (2004) ‘Women, sex, and power: Circe and Lilith in Narnia’, Children’s Literature Association Quarterly, Vol. 29 (1), pp. 32-44