Introduction (Literary Analysis)

When writing an introduction for a literary analysis a BRIEF synopsis of the story can be effective, but don't recap the entire story.

You could also use your introduction to write about the broader issues that connect to your analysis.  If, for example, your analysis is going to declare the theme of a story reveals something about greed, use your introduction to write about greed.

Avoid jumping right into your analysis without ANY setup.  Make sure the reader knows what story you're writing about and gradually lead them to your thesis.  

The last sentence of your introduction is a very effective place for your thesis.

Sample Literary Analysis Essay: Chapter 1 of "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and societal issues such as racism and injustice in the American South during the 1930s. The first chapter serves as an important foundation for the novel, introducing key characters and setting the stage for the unfolding narrative. This analysis will explore the use of characterization, setting, and foreshadowing in Chapter 1, highlighting how these elements contribute to the novel's themes and overall impact.

In the opening chapter, Lee introduces the Finch family, focusing primarily on Scout, the narrator, and her father, Atticus Finch. Scout's characterization is conveyed through her innocent and curious perspective, providing readers with a child's view of the world around her. For instance, Scout describes her father as "satisfactory: he played with us, read to us, and treated us with courteous detachment." This description not only establishes Atticus as a loving yet somewhat distant figure but also hints at the complexities of his character that will be revealed later in the novel. Atticus's moral integrity and commitment to justice are subtly introduced, setting him up as a central figure in the narrative.

The setting of Maycomb, Alabama, is vividly depicted in the first chapter, creating a sense of place that is integral to the novel's themes. Lee describes Maycomb as an "old town, but it was a tired old town when I first knew it." This portrayal of Maycomb as a slow, sleepy Southern town establishes a backdrop against which the events of the story will unfold. The description of the town's "sweltering" heat and the "red slop" of the streets conveys a sense of stagnation and decay, reflecting the deep-seated prejudices and resistance to change that characterize the community.

Lee employs foreshadowing in the first chapter to hint at future conflicts and themes. The mysterious Radley house, introduced through the children's fascination and fear, serves as a symbol of the unknown and the misunderstood. Scout's recollection of Jem's injury and her mention of Dill's arrival in Maycomb foreshadow the significant events that will challenge the characters' understanding of morality and justice. Additionally, the reference to Atticus's role in defending a black man, though not explicitly detailed in the first chapter, hints at the central conflict that will drive the narrative forward.

In Chapter 1 of To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee effectively uses characterization, setting, and foreshadowing to lay the groundwork for the novel's exploration of complex social issues. By introducing readers to the Finch family, the town of Maycomb, and the enigmatic Radley house, Lee sets the stage for a story that challenges readers to confront their own perceptions of right and wrong. The first chapter's detailed descriptions and subtle hints at future events engage readers and create a sense of anticipation for the unfolding narrative. Through these literary elements, Lee establishes a rich and compelling world that continues to resonate with readers, making To Kill a Mockingbird a timeless classic.