Essay Questions

Literary Analysis Essays

1. What does the writing reveal about the author's values and attitudes? From what perspective does he/she write?
2. What are the causes, gains, and losses of the conflict dealt with in this book?
3. What universal themes does this book address? What does the author understand about human nature?
4. Who is the "hero" in this book and what are some of his/her traits? What does he/she accomplish, and how is he/she portrayed? Does the hero represent an abstract idea such as goodness, truth, courage or evil?
5. How does this novel reflect the history, behavior and social issues of the time period and setting? What is this book's symbolic and thematic significance?
6. Why do we still read this book? What is so timeless about its message and characters? What can we learn from reading this novel?
7. What techniques does the author use to engage the audience and make the story effective? Give examples to support your analysis (mystery, humor, symbolism, suspense, etc.).
8. How accurately does this novel reflect events in history? What responsibilities does the author believe exist between various groups in society, such as workers and bosses, men and women, blacks and whites, etc.? What people, ideas, and events probably influenced this author?