Write a literary analysis essay of a book or story you have recently read. Analyze the story in terms
of plot, character, and theme. Be sure to have a thesis (central idea) that you want to express about
the story. Don’t forget that everything you write must be somehow directly related to the central
idea and must contribute to the reader’s understanding of that central idea. Be sure to use facts and
examples to support your thesis. It can be applied to novels, short stories, plays, poems, or any other form of literary writing.
It is a type of argumentative essay which analyses elements such as the language, perspective, and
structure of the text, and explain how the author uses literary devices to create effects and convey
ideas.
Introduction:
Introduce the works and their authors.
Declare the characters you will be analysing.
Define what the essay will discuss.
Body of the essay:
Begin by noting charact traits which the author highlights. Use specific examples and quotes which
the author uses to support the trait you are describing. Spend time elaborating on the traits and
tendencies of the character.
The next paragraph should be spent on the other character you have chosen. Carry out the same
treatment of his character through analysis of the text and style.
Identify and describe the similarities and differences between the two characters. Note how the
characters interact with the other characters, their tone, speech and attitude. Focus on the
characters actions and motivations and what these convey to the readers about the characters.
Conclusion:
The conclusion should summaries the similarities or differences between the characters and state
why you believe the characters are similar or different.
