Write a research essay analyzing Margaret Atwood’s novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, paying special attention to symbolism, character development, and theme.
In your introductory paragraph, state a clear thesis using the template: By showing us [this specific element of the narrative], The Handmaid’s Tale urges us to consider [this particular theme].
In your essay’s body:
Use specifics (e.g., characters’ names and in-depth analysis of the novel’s events) to illustrate your main points and support your central argument (thesis).
Identify your sources with proper MLA parenthetical citation.
Identify quotes from the novel using page numbers. I suggest using between 7 and 10 passages.
Be careful not to make this paper a patchwork of quotations/paraphrases from the novel and secondary sources with occasional “chiming in” on your part. Effective analyses are typically comprised of between 25 and 30 percent quotations/paraphrases, which means the discussion is primarily (70 to 75 percent) yours.
Use your concluding paragraph to summarize your main points and restate your thesis.
Finally, include a work cited page to list your sources (including the novel itself).
Papers must be typed, double-spaced, use MLA format, one-inch margins all around, with left-justified text, 12-point Times New Roman font.
