Papers

You will write two (2) analytical papers responding closely and thoughtfully to the assigned readings.   Each paper should be approximately five pages long.   All papers must be typed (produced on a computer and word processor), double-spaced, with one-inch margins.   Fonts should be clear and readable, such as New Times Roman or Arial, font size 12.  All papers must also include an original title for your essay, page numbers, and a correct works cited page, using MLA style.

All assignments--especially papers--are due at the beginning of the class period listed below and designated on the syllabus.   I accept no late papers.   If you submit a late paper, it will receive a zero; I will, however, provide comments on it.   You must complete all papers to pass the course.

As part of our 4th credit hour requirement, I will conduct a "writing about literature" writing workshop after regular class hours for each paper.

Due Date

Tips for Writing a Literary Analysis Paper

  v    The purpose of your paper is to analyze a text.  The process of analysis involves close reading and careful examination by dividing the subject into parts and uncovering relationships among parts and to the whole.  Thus, when you are analyzing a literary text, you are breaking down the text from its existing form to gain an understanding of the text in relation to the subject of your paper.  In particular, one of the parts you should pay special attention to is language (word choice, metaphor, imagery).

  v    Avoid plot summary.  Retelling the story is not analysis.  Some plot summary may be useful to contextualize an idea, locate an example, or provide transition, but remember, your audience—our EN 201 class—is familiar with the texts about which you are writing.

  v    Your paper is a pointed text.  That is, you have a point that you are trying to argue or prove in your paper.  Everything in your paper should help drive that point home.

  v    As a pointed text, your paper must have a clear and strong thesis statement.    A thesis statement provides the reader with the topic of the paper and your point of view of that topic.  Listing what you are going to do in a paper is forecasting statement, not a thesis.

  v    To prove/demonstrate/argue your point, you must provide evidence from the text.  The text is always your best resource.  Quote wisely, liberally, and accurately from your text.  

  v    Present quotations following the Three C’s model of contextualization, correctness, and comment.  Do not just drop quotations into your paper.   Integrate them fully into your discussion.

  v    Provide accurate and correct internal citation and a works cited page for your paper following MLA style.        

  v    End your paper with an effective conclusion, one that does more than summarize your paper and restates your thesis.   Strive to synthesize your ideas in your paper and answer the “killer question”:  SO WHAT?

Additional Resources

v The Skidmore Guide To Writing at http://www.skidmore.edu/academics/english/ENGLISH_DEPT_HP/WG/WGFRAMES.html

v The Academic Integrity Checklist