IBDP English A Paper 2 Structured Outline
HOOK In literature, identity1 is often presented as the way individuals are shaped by their culture and society.WORKSIn two
such works,Whispers of the Steppeby Russian playwright Dmitri Volkov andVoices of the Abyssby Ethiopian short story
writer Amina Tesfaye2 the theme of identity is approached through distinct cultural lenses and narrative techniques.THESIS
While Volkov's play examines the struggles of individual identity amidst societal expectations in rural Russia to shed light
on the oppressive nature of tradition and the internal conflicts faced by those who wish to break free from it, Tesfaye's
stories highlight the complexities of gender and cultural identity in contemporary Ethiopia to explore how women navigate
the shifting landscape of modernity while remaining connected to their cultural roots.SIGNIFICANCETogether, these authors
invite their audiences to consider how identity is shaped by both personal choices and broader cultural forces.
TOPICBoth authors explore the theme of individual ambition versus societal expectations through theirprotagonists3.
WORKInWhispers of the Steppe, Volkov portrays the character of Ivan, a young man torn between his ambitions and the
expectations of his family and community.EXAMPLEFor example, Ivan expresses his desire to leave the village for a
career in the city, stating, “I am not meant to live in this small world,” which highlights his internal conflict through direct
characterization.ANALYSISThis device emphasizes the theme of personal ambition versus societal constraints,
showcasing how Ivan's struggle reflects a broader desire for self-actualization.WORKIn contrast, Tesfaye’s story “Amina’s
Choice” features the character of Amina, a young woman striving to assert her identity in a rapidly changing urban
environment.EXAMPLEAmina struggles to balance her family's expectations with her desire for independence, as seen
when she declares, “I want to be more than just a daughter; I want to be myself,” using assertive dialogue.ANALYSISThis
technique underscores the theme of self-identity and the pursuit of personal agency in the face of societal expectations.
EVALUATION Despite both Ivan and Amina facing significant societal pressures, Ivan's struggle is deeply tied to the weight
of tradition, in contrast to Amina, whose challenge involves navigating the complexities of modernity. This highlights the
distinct cultural contexts influencing their quests for identity.
TRANSITIONIn addition to their explorations of male identity,TOPICboth authors also examine the complexities offemale
identitywithin their respective societies.WORKInWhispers of the Steppe, Volkov uses the character of Maria, Ivan’s
mother, to illustrate the oppressive nature of patriarchal society.EXAMPLEMaria sacrifices her dreams for her family,
revealing her internal struggle when she laments, “I gave up my life for theirs,” employing emotional appeal to convey her
sacrifice.ANALYSISThis device highlights the theme of female oppression within traditional structures, emphasizing the
sacrifices women make for familial duty.WORKIn contrast, Tesfaye’s story “The Women’s Circle” showcases Selam, a
strong and independent woman who actively seeks to redefine her role in society.EXAMPLESelam finds empowerment
among her friends, stating, “Together, we can rewrite our stories,” a metaphor symbolizing collective strength and
resilience.ANALYSISThis metaphor reinforces the theme of female empowerment and community support, illustrating how
women can challenge and transform their identities together.EVALUATIONWhile Volkov portrays Maria's sacrifices as
indicative of a rigid, oppressive society, Tesfaye celebrates Selam's journey toward empowerment within a supportive
community, contrasting traditional constraints with modern resilience.
TRANSITIONBuilding on these thematic differences,TOPICboth authors employ distinctnarrative techniquesto convey
their characters' struggles with identity. InWhispers of the Steppe, Volkov’s use of dramatic dialogue and monologue
allows the audience to deeply experience Ivan’s and Maria’s psychological struggles.EXAMPLEFor instance, Ivan’s
passionate soliloquy about his dreams and fears reveals the emotional weight of his identity crisis through dramatic
monologue.ANALYSISThis technique aligns with the theme of inner conflict and the quest for personal identity, as it
provides insight into the characters' emotional turmoil.WORKConversely, Tesfaye employs a multifaceted narrative style in
“Threads of Connection,” weaving together various perspectives, including those of Amina and Selam, to depict the
collective experience of Ethiopian women.EXAMPLEThis technique is evident when multiple characters share their stories
of resilience, illustrating how their experiences intertwine through polyphonic narrative.ANALYSISThis device supports the
theme of community and shared experience, emphasizing how individual identities are shaped by collective narratives.
EVALUATIONWhereas Volkov's focus on soliloquies allows for deep psychological exploration of individual struggles,
Tesfaye's polyphonic approach highlights the interconnectedness of identities within a community, showcasing different
narrative strategies in addressing identity.
CONCLUSIONThe works of Volkov and Tesfaye offer profound insights into the theme of identity, albeit through different
cultural lenses and narrative forms.SYNTHESISWhile Volkov’s exploration of societal constraints in rural Russia contrasts
sharply with Tesfaye’s celebration of communal resilience in contemporary Ethiopia,PURPOSEtogether these works enrich
our understanding of how identity is constructed and negotiated within varying cultural contexts, highlighting the universal
struggle for self-definition amid external pressures.
1
rompt: The exploration of identity is a central theme in literature. How do two works you have studied present this theme?
P
2
Both works and authors are invented.
3
broader author choice
