Name: _______________________________
ENG4U1 Personal Persuasive Essay Analysis Unit:
Responding to Paul Theroux’s “Being a Man”
Essay Analysis Instructions:

Carefully read and dissect the accompanying personal persuasive essay entitled, “Being a
Man” by Paul Theroux. Please respond to the following SEVEN analysis questions provided
below using complete sentences.

Follow a point/proof/analysis format for each of your responses (you must include direct
quotations from the essay in your answers in order to support your assertions).
The Seven Essay Analysis Questions:
1) What is the thesis of Theroux’s essay? Express this thesis in your own words.
2) Do you agree or disagree with Theroux’s thesis? Explain your reasoning by connecting
directly to Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle.
3) What is the tone of Theroux’s essay? Does it enhance his persuasiveness?
4) Identify and analyze TWO pro arguments that Theroux integrates in order to support his
thesis.
5) Identify and analyze ONE concession argument that Theroux presents in order to explore
the alternate side of his argument. If he does not present a concession argument, what is
the effect on his essay?
6) Identify and analyze TWO internal strategies that Theroux uses in order to shape/develop
his thesis. Are these internal strategies used effectively (comment on their purpose and
effect)?
7) Identify and analyze TWO rhetorical devices that Theroux uses in order to enhance his
thesis. Are these rhetorical devices used effectively (comment on their purpose and effect)?
PLEASE NOTE:

Ensure that your responses are written in proper sentence and paragraph structure, and that
they contain correct spelling, grammar, style, and organization of ideas.