Literary Analysis Paper
Directions: You are to write a research paper analyzing the novel you chose to read this semester. It must be at least 2000-2500 words in length and include a works cited page (at least five sources – two from a library database, one is the piece of literature itself – Wikipedia is NEVER a reputable source). (The works cited page is not part of the word length requirement.)
Tips:
1. Include the title of the book you are referencing in your introductory paragraph.
2. Include a claim at the end of your introductory paragraph which discusses what you intend to prove in your paper in regards to your book.
3. Use the literary elements of your choice as evidence to support your claim about your novel.
4. You must have a works cited page listing the book and at least four other sources for a total of no less than five cited works. Use your MLA citation guide for help with the works cited page and for help with internal citations.
5. Your sources must be reputable. You must have at least two database sources from the library. Additional sources can be from books or the web. If you are using the web, you must use the web evaluation form to insure the site is reputable.
6. Remember when writing about literature to use present tense.
7. Remember to check your grammar.
8. Reference the rubric in your syllabus for grading criteria.
9. Use your feedback on essay #4 to help you in writing this essay. This is the same type of essay but with additional sources. You will be discussing the diction and imagery, etc. in the book as a means to help you prove the claim you develop.
Helpful definitions:
Claim – what you intend to prove in your paper
Outline – a basic outline should include an overview of section of your paper (see an example below, although yours will be much longer as you are writing a 2000-2500 word essay)
Discovery draft – rough draft
Literary Analysis Outline – “The Red Wheelbarrow”
I. Introductory Paragraph
a. Claim – Williams utilizes a lack of syntax and impactful diction in order to
emphasize the hardships and pastoral nature of living on a farm.
II. Body Paragraph 1 – Syntax
a. Lack of syntax
b. No punctuation
c. Short, coupled lines
III. Body Paragraph 2 – Diction
a. Discuss colors used
b. Discuss use of wheel barrow and chickens (symbolic)
IV. Conclusion