"The Development of Early American Literature" can begin with researching the literature available during the period of the 13 colonies.The paper can compare and contrast colonial literature with works from the Revolutionary War era to see how the literature of the later period reflected changes from the politics, culture and social life of the earlier period. Since literature is influenced by the times, this topic lends itself well to a research paper that could also double as a history assignment.
A look at two authors with similar styles and subjects, such as "A Comparison Between Mark Twain and O. Henry," provides a topic for research. The times they lived in and wrote about are important for this paper. You need to analyze their literary writings including writing techniques, themes, characterizations and social conditions in determining in what way they may be alike and in which way they might be different and how Twain influenced the younger writer. Look for the ironic endings of O. Henry compared with the folksy style of Mark Twain.
A look at a particular literary genre, such as "How Themes are Portrayed in Early American Poetry," offers another angle for a research paper. Consider elements of love, hate, patriotism, war, conflict and death for your paper. Analyze several poems with these themes to see how they were portrayed. Look at various interpretations of the poems you selected. Analyze these and put them together in a well-structured paper.
Focusing on a single author, such as the topic of "Poe--his Life, Work and Influence on American Literature," is a route you could take. Edgar Allan Poe was an unusual and original author who is considered among the greatest. Poe's life, works, style, symbolism and contributions to American literature lend themselves well to a research paper, especially with his focus on the macabre and mysterious. A study of various interpretations of his work would be beneficial before writing the paper. His themes, characterizations and imagination should offer abundant material for analysis.
"The Role of Horace Greeley in American Literature" is a topic worth considering. Known for the expression, "Go West, young man," Greeley was a journalist for major magazines and newspapers and, therefore, played an important role in 19th century American literature.