Thematic Analysis
3 Pages, 12 pt. font, 1-inch margins
Due: May 15
Overview:
Themes are ideas that get repeated or returned to over the course of a work of literature. Themes can tell us what a work of literature is “about” in a deeper sense. In Oedipus, we discussed two themes: fate and free will and sight and blindness. We also discussed the technique of dramatic irony. Dramatic irony is not a theme, but it is a technique that is repeated throughout Oedipus and can also tell us what it is about.
In this essay, you will use an analysis of one of the two themes or the technique of dramatic irony that we discussed to make an argument about what Oedipus is about on a deeper level.
Sample Outline:
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Give an account of what Oedipus is about on the surface
Introduce the theme or technique that helps you to see what Oedipus is about on a deeper level
Explain in brief what you will discuss in your two body paragraphs
Provide your thesis, or argument
Paragraphs 2-4: Evidence
Start with a topic sentence that describes how the theme or technique operates in a particular moment in the text
Introduce and contextualize the moment in the text
Provide a quote that illustrates the theme or technique at work in that moment
Explain how the quote illustrates the theme or technique
Tie back to your thesis
Paragraph 5: Conclusion
Reflect on what you think Oedipus is about on a deeper level
Make connections to your own experience, our current moment, or other topics and considerations
Instructions:
In a Word or Google Doc, write your essay. Be sure to use quotes to back up your claims and to cite your quotes properly using MLA format. See the attached evaluation guide for how I will be evaluating you.
