Write your analysis focusing on one of the following elements from one of the assigned short stories:
- Character
- Theme
- Symbolism
- Imagery
- Setting
- Point of view
In a 4-page (1,200-word) literary analysis, write an in-depth analytical essay using your own ideas plus supporting evidence from the text, such as quotations, paraphrases, and summaries, remembering that quoted material should never exceed 25% of the essay.
Note: Next week you will have an opportunity to incorporate into your essay scholarly source material that further substantiates your argument. You may include such information in this week’s essay, but it is not required at this point.
Start by selecting one of the short stories assigned by your instructor this week. Brainstorm to identify a literary element in the text that you would like to explore, such as character, theme, symbolism, imagery, setting, or point of view. Then, develop a preliminary thesis that offers a specific interpretation of this element.
If you have trouble coming up with a focus or thesis, contact your instructor, who will help you brainstorm.
