Literary Analysis

You will choose to respond to one question (sometimes from several options) on in-class essay tests. You will be free to use the book/s and any notes you have prepared. 

See Essay Formatting webpage for essay requirements. 

See Canvas for instructions and scoring guide.

TIP SHEET

(Top 12 mistakes students make in Literary Analysis essays)

12. Asking questions of the reader, either at the start as an intro hook, or at the end as if to entice the reader to read the book (like the essay were a review). *Rule: Don't ask in Literary Analysis...TELL.

11. Putting book titles in "quotes" rather than Italicizing them (or doing neither).

10. Not using a title, or not using a title that fits your particular essay (rather than just the name of the book).

9. Talking to the reader (using 'you').

8. Using 'I.' 

7. Forgetting to name the book in the intro.

6. Forgetting to explain who EVERY character is the first time they are mentioned.

5. Saying irrelevant things "the book was good" or that you enjoyed reading it. (NOTHING should be included that isn't there to support your THESIS.)

4. Forgetting to write assuming the audience has never read the book.

3. Quote problems: Not using them; not explaining them; not grafting; or saying "This quote shows..."

2. Not using evidence, examples, or quotes for ALL MAJOR CLAIMS.

1. Forgetting the essay must have an intro with a clear THESIS, supporting body paragraphs and a conclusion — like any other essay.