I guess other ways to phrase 'the experience of hope' depends on your question/thesis.
Perhaps try aspirations, desire, ambitions, optimism, with an adjective to portray your idea? Also don't forget you can throw in the language of the module.
E.g (1984 is my common mod text):
Orwell illustrates the futility of optimism in the destruction of the relationship between Winston and Julia.
Orwell explores the collective human experience in the negligibility of ambition, through the complacency of the proles.
1984 highlights the intrinsic desire for hope in the face of dystopia through the impermanence of the mind.
I have no idea if this is what you're going for, but hopefully I could be of some assistance.