“The Most Dangerous Game” Analysis
(English I, Pre-AP)
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On your own paper, in BLUE/BLACK ink, create notes over the short story
elements.
Number (#1-6) and HIGHLIGHT and/or UNDERLINE each term as you create notes
about it
See directions below on how to format these notes!
Focus on these elements
1. Setting (time and place)
2. Conflicts (types)
3. Irony
4. Theme (Hint: “I am still a beast at bay” (83) is the KEY to
understanding Connell’s main message)
5. Multiple Meanings of the story (write numerous thematic statements
focusing on different aspects of human nature)
6. Dialectical Analysis*----Indirect Characterization (using the format
below!) Choose 4 MORE short story elements and terms. Use the
analysis technique below to assert and explain each term. This will be
#s 7-10 for this assignment.
Set up your paper as illustrated on the back of this page for
the Notes & Dialectical Analysis
(You CAN type this, if you’d like to!)
A. In the margin, write and highlight/underline the literary element to be
analyzed (i.e. Conflict, Irony, Theme)
B. Divide the rest of the page in half lengthwise
C. In the middle column, copy a passage (2-4 sentences) that related to
the literary element and has significance to understanding the work.
INCLUDE THE PAGE NUMBER in parentheses!
D. In the third column, explain the significance of the quoted passage.
Provide analysis, inference and insight. DO NOT RE-TELL THE PLOT!
Do not summarize the quote! Do not write what the quotation says,
infer and analyze what it MEANS in the story.
Example of Dialectical Analysis Format
Literary Element
Indirect Characterization
Textual Evidence/Support
“…and his smile showed red lips
And pointed teeth” (72).
Analysis/Assertion
Zaroff is portrayed as
an animal or vampire.
He is not to be trusted
as a predator. There is
a contrast between the
friendliness of the
smile and the mouth
that performs it.