IB Higher Level Lit Questions

Prose: novel and short story

* Compare the presentation and function of villains or anti-heroes in at least two works of
prose fiction that you have studied.

* In at least two works of prose fiction that you have studied, discuss the presentation of
competing ideas, hopes or visions and consider the effects created.

* Compare the use and function of seemingly insignificant detail in at least two works of
prose fiction that you have studied.

* Some central truths (of plot, character and ideas, for example) are made explicit, while
some are only implied. With reference to at least two works you have studied, compare the
effects of explicit and/or implied disclosure of central truths.

* With reference to at least two works you have studied, compare the ways in which
narrative point of view has shaped the presentation of character.

* Writers use dialogue to perform different functions (to alter pace, demonstrate character
and vary tone, for example). With reference to at least two works you have studied,
compare the ways in which dialogue is used and the effects achieved.

* Many authors set their works in more than one time period or in more than one
geographically distinct area. Compare in what ways, and to what effects, at least two
authors have incorporated more than one time period and/or geographical setting into the
works you have studied.

* Compare the ways in which at least two authors you have studied have made use of the
presentation of nature, and the effects achieved, in their works.

* Some characters act as intermediaries between others, helping the reader understand the
nature of the characters they link. In at least two works you have studied, compare the roles
of such intermediary characters, and the effects achieved.

* Supernatural elements can be made as credible as realistic ones in a work. Compare the
ways in which at least two writers you have studied have presented the supernatural as
believable, and consider its effects on the works as a whole.

* Writing in the first person as opposed to the third person, or vice versa, has its advantages
and disadvantages. With reference to at least two works you have studied, compare how
these advantages or disadvantages have contributed to the works.

* A character’s physical description may be portrayed in great detail, or not. In at least two
works you have studied, compare the treatment of physical descriptions and their effects on
the works as a whole.

* Using at least two works you have studied, show how and to what extent authors have
created interesting characters whose thoughts remain hidden.

* Discuss the importance of the journey as an organizing structure in at least two works you
have studied.
* Discuss the means by which authors endeavour to control our sympathy in at least two
works you have studied.