1. Subjectivity: The term "greatest" is inherently subjective. There is no objective criteria for determining the "greatest" writer, as literary value is based on personal taste and interpretation. Different people will have different opinions on what constitutes great writing, making a definitive answer impossible.
2. Limited Scope: Focusing on "the greatest" limits the scope of the essay and prevents a broader exploration of literary trends, movements, and influences. It also ignores the diverse range of genres and styles that existed in the 20th century.
3. Lack of Focus: The question is too broad and lacks a specific focus. It doesn't offer any specific aspects of writing to analyze or any particular themes or topics to explore.
4. Potential for Bias: The essay could easily fall into the trap of promoting the author's personal preferences and biases, rather than presenting a balanced and objective analysis.
5. Difficulty in Research: It's extremely difficult to gather objective evidence to support a claim about one writer being "the greatest." You'd have to compare them to countless other writers, which is an overwhelming task.
Instead of focusing on "the greatest," a research essay could explore more fruitful and specific questions, such as:
* How did modernism influence 20th-century literature?
* What are the defining characteristics of post-colonial literature in the 20th century?
* How did the rise of technology impact the form and content of 20th-century fiction?
* What are the major themes explored by writers during the 20th century?
* How has the role of women in literature evolved throughout the 20th century?
These questions allow for a more focused and objective analysis, exploring specific aspects of 20th-century literature and offering valuable insights into the literary landscape of the time.