“The answers you get from literature
depends on the questions you pose.”
- Margaret Atwood (Canadian Writer)
Preparation for Literary Essay
Writing
Determining Theme
Creating a thesis based on theme
Organizing the essay
Theme Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4qME64Sk
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Determining Theme
THEME is a reader’s speculation about the author’s intended purpose.
Themes emerge from asking questions about topics
(Question: What does the Shakespeare seem to say about “love” in Romeo and
Juliet?)
Themes are universal and timeless statements
(Answer: Love is powerful force that can be rewarding but also destructive)
Theme is revealed by elements of story:
Conflicts (internal or external)
Main Character changes
Setting
Symbolism/ Motifs
Contrasting Characters
Minor Characters
Subplots or Parallel Plots
Imagery or Metaphor
Symbolic characters - Romeo and Juliet
The words of a minor character - Friar Lawrence
External conflicts - between the Montagues and the Capulets)
Social Commentary Themes
Social Commentary is the act of expressing an opinion or criticism on the nature of society. Whether it be
about social conditions, cultural expectations, technology, economic circumstances, ethnicity, religion,
education, the environment, or power, writers who engage in social commentary commonly seek to
highlight problems in these areas, and to promote change.”
First Big Question:
What does the Khaled Hossieni seem to say about _____topic_____ in The Kite Runner ?
Topics
1.
Cultural Expectations: norms, traditions, laws
2.
Religion and faith: expectations, values, interpretations, conscience
3.
Race and ethnicity: prejudices, stereotypes, scapegoats
4.
Power: leadership (positive and negative); within an individual, a friendship, a family, a society
5.
Social Conditions: poverty, economic circumstance, barriers to success
Second Big Question:
How does the author reveal these themes to the reader?
Extended Question:
How is this theme applicable to today – self, society
Your Turn
1. Use your cue card to form help you to draw
some conclusions about The Kite Runner’s
themes.
2. Write three theme statements.
3. List points about how this theme is revealed
to the reader
From Theme to Thesis
Theme
“ Love is powerful force that can be
rewarding but also destructive”
•
use of the symbolic characters,
Romeo and Juliet,
•
the words of a minor character, Friar
Lawrence,
•
the conflicts that exist between the
Montagues and the Capulets
Thesis: Romeo and Juliet by William
Shakespeare presents a common, but
important lesson : “Love is powerful
force that can be rewarding but also
destructive”. This theme is revealed
by Shakespeare’s use of the symbolic
characters, the words and actions of
a minor character, and the external
conflicts that exist between the
feuding families.
Of note:
- The theme/ thesis is meaningful
- Suggestion of Organization
- Clear and precise Language
- - Parallel Structure
- Active voice
Formal tone
-
Writing Thesis Statements
Thesis
Theme to thesis - stand OUTSIDE the work and analyze the author’s craft
a) Lord of the Flies presents a social commentary on the individual in society. His novel
suggests that humans are innately evil, and as a result, within a society or government,
people will seek to fulfill their selfish needs. These views are revealed by looking closely
at the characters of Jack, Roger, and Ralph.
b) 1984 by George Orwell presents a social commentary on the corrupt power of
Communism. He suggests that this form of government is controlling and oppressive
which leads to a society that is rigid, stagnant, and emotionless. Orwell’s message is
revealed through his use of symbolic words and characters.
c) To Kill a Mockingbird is a social commentary on discrimination in the American South
in the 1930s. Lee expresses the idea that fear of the unknown leads to a person’s
feelings of socially superiority but she also suggests that change is possible. This
timeless theme is reflected by the novel’s dual plot lines and can also be applied to
contemporary society.
Weak Thesis Statements
The Kite Runner has a lot of symbolism.
The Kite Runner is about friendship.
The Kite Runner is a bad novel.
Outline
Broad Topic: Love
Thesis: Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare presents a common, but important lesson
: “Love is powerful force that can be rewarding but also destructive”. This theme is revealed
by Shakespeare’s use of the symbolic characters, the words and actions of a minor
character, and the external conflicts that exist between the feuding families.
Topic Sentence: Although Romeo and Juliet are often thought to be foolish teenagers who
make a rash and tragic mistake , if the audience views them as being symbolic, they can gain
a better understanding of the theme.
Quote #1
Quote #2
Connect to thesis
Connect to thesis
Topic Sentence: Friar Lawrence acts as the voice of reason when it comes to love; however,
his actions reflect the destructive nature of love.
Quote #1
Quote #2
Connect to thesis
Connect to thesis
Topic Sentence: Finally, Shakespeare make his message about love clear through the external
conflict that exists between the Montague and the Capulets. Their animosity permeates the
play and leaves the audience with a lasting impression about the two sides to love.
Quote #1
Quote #2
Connect to thesis
Connect to thesis
Characteristics of GOOD writers
A good writer…
Establishes a clear purpose for writing
•
thesis
•
topic sentences
Writes with the audience in mind
•
the writing is engaging, thoughtful, insightful
•
voice is appropriate for purpose
•
cares about the audience’s understanding – uses transitions and links between ideas
•
varies sentence lengths
Uses interesting and meaningful vocabulary
•
selects the best words to convey a thought
Aims for clarity and accuracy with words and sentences
•
use of active voice
•
use parallel structure
•
eliminate “clutter” – “low fat” writing
Attends to details
•
punctuation, quotations, grammar, spelling
Formal Essay Exemplar
Life of Pi by Yann Martel