This outline will provide you with a solid structure for your paper. If you feel you have the basics of the essay under control, scroll down and go on to the qualities of an excellent literary essay.
First Paragraph-I ntroduction
A broad statement introducing the subject in a general way in one or more sentences (this may be a statement of theme)
A specific reference to the title and author
Thesis/Claime statement presenting the main idea of the paper in one sentence
Body Paragraphs
1st point from the thesis statement -an idea
An example or quotation to support your idea
Analysis and interpretation of the supporting evidence to show how it supports the idea in your topic sentence
Concluding sentence which ties this paragraph to your thesis/claim.
Body Paragraphs
2nd point from the thesis statement - an idea
An example or quotation to support your idea
Analysis and interpretation of the supporting evidence to show how it supports the idea in your topic sentence
Concluding sentence which ties this paragraph to your thesis/claim
Body Paragraphs
3rd point from the thesis statement - an idea
An example or quotation to support your idea
Analysis and interpretation of the supporting evidence to show how it supports the idea in your topic sentence
Concluding sentence which ties this paragraph to your thesis/claim
Conclusion
Thoughtful explanation of the significance of your thesis (answers the "so what?" question)
*Remember, the Body Paragraphs may be multiple paragraphs.
Qualities of an Excellent Literary Paper
Title
brief yet illuminating
relevant
tone in keeping with the rest of the paper
Introduction
identifies topic
states thesis
to the point
includes a direct reference to title and author
invites reading
appropriate tone to purpose
Thesis / Claim
significant
clearly stated and precise
limited
debatable
Body Paragraphs
main points clearly stated
smooth and logical transitions between and within paragraphs
general point made specific through reference to text
quotations smoothly incorporated and thoroughly analyzed, showing relevance to and support for main points
concluding sentence ties to thesis
Conclusion
grows naturally from preceding paragraphs
explains significance of thesis
provides a sense of completion
Organization
ideas developed in proportion to their significance
logical and climactic arrangement of paragraphs
order is appropriate to thesis
Content
unpretentious
definite, focused, cohesive
shows that writer has given careful thought to the topic
well-nourished with specific supports
relies on careful analysis of text
developed through specific details and mature interpretations [follows 3-step plan of presentation 1) Ideas, 2) details related to ideas, and 3) analysis and interpretation of the details in relation to the thesis/claim] to the minimum needed for clarity of analysis
limits plot summary
shows independent thinking, unusual insights or perspective
Control of Written Language
fluent expression
sentences controlled for rhetorical purposes
each sentence has a logical relationship to surrounding sentences and fits smoothly into its context
variety of sentence lengths and patterns
precise and fresh word choice
natural and appropriate diction level
meaning emphasized through creative effects [use of figurative language, sonic devices, parallel structure, etc.] when useful and appropriate
uses present tense
Conventions
no errors in mechanics and usage
Format
typed [double-spaced]
one side of paper
in-text citations follow MLA format
Consider the gender of the characters in your chosen work. How are male and female characters portrayed? How does the work portray their roles in society?
How does gender influence the choices that are available to the characters and the decisions that they make?
Write a paper that explores how gender affects the plot and character development in the work.