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Literary Analysis. What is a literary analysis essay? . A literary analysis essay is an essay that makes an ARGUMENT about a text by considering its plot, characters, setting, theme, symbolism, metaphors, etc. . What does it look like?.
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Literary Analysis What is a literary analysis essay?
A literary analysis essay is an essay that makes an ARGUMENT about a text by considering its plot, characters, setting, theme, symbolism, metaphors, etc.
What does it look like? When writing a literary analysis, you will focus on specific attributes of the text (plot, characters, symbolism, etc). When discussing these attributes, you will want to make sure that you are making a specific, arguable point (thesis) about these attributes. You will defend this point with reasons and evidence drawn from the text. (Much like a lawyer who makes a case for his client)
Thesis statement A thesis statement makes an ARGUMENT, not just a factual claim about the text. Bad thesis: Lord of the Flies is a novel about boys being stranded on an island. Good thesis: The author of Lord of the Flies uses a unique setting to show that humanity will become unorganized and chaotic when forced into an unfamiliar environment.
How do I support my thesis statement? Provide proof and examples from the text: -Direct quotations -Summaries of scenes -Paraphrase DO NOT JUST SUMMARIZE THE WORK
In conclusion… When writing a literary analysis: -Be familiar with literary terms -Analyze specific elements of your text -Make an ARGUMENT, not a statement -Come to tutorials for help
An example thesis… In Cast Away, the director uses the volleyball called Wilson to represent both Chuck’s descent into insanity and his attempt to stay sane. Your essay would then go on to find THREE examples from the movie(text) that PROVES this thesis statement.