Don’t be this guy…

Introduction (w/ thesis) (Transition) Body Paragraph #1 (Transition) Body Paragraph #2 (Transition) Body Paragraph #3 (Transition) Conclusion

Move from broad to specific ◦ DO NOT begin with the quote from the prompt ◦ DO NOT make sweeping generalizations ◦ DO NOT discuss your personal interaction with or opinion of the book ◦ DO introduce the text and its author ◦ DO include three specific controlling points in your thesis

Bridge the gap between your previous body paragraph and the one to come ◦ DO NOT use first, second, next, lastly, in conclusion, in summation, etc. ◦ DO use while…instead, however, unlike, similarly, etc.

Think of your body paragraphs this way: ◦ Claim = topic sentence  “this is the point I am trying to make in this paragraph.” ◦ Evidence = textual support  “here is where I see the point I am trying to make happening.” ◦ Warrant = analysis  “here is why what I see happening proves my point.”

Go specific to broad ◦ DO NOT copy and paste your thesis! ◦ DO NOT bring up new material or arguments ◦ DO NOT discuss your interaction with or opinion of the text ◦ DO restate your thesis in a fresh way ◦ DO end with a thought-provoking point that builds upon your original argument

 DO NOT use personal pronouns  DO NOT use clichés or slang  DO NOT use contractions  DO NOT use vague language  DO NOT use fluff

 DO address the reader as “one” or “the reader”  DO use elevated and academic language  DO be as specific as possible  DO be concise and straightforward  DO use a variety of words

 Identify and rate parts of the sample essay ◦ Introduction ◦ Thesis statement ◦ Topic sentences/Transitions ◦ Body paragraph arguments ◦ Textual evidence ◦ Analysis ◦ Conclusion

An anonymous person once said, “Without the power of a woman, a man would be nothing.” Considering the events of the second half of The Odyssey, does this quote ring true? In a well-organized, formal essay, argue whether the women of the text “create” the men.

Throughout history, many women have been responsible for supporting great men. It has been argued that “Without the power of a woman, a man would be nothing,” suggesting that while men may possess numerous attributes for success, it is the women around him who ultimately enable him to become something more. This quote holds truth in the epic, The Odyssey. Throughout the text, one may initially believe that men have all the power when, in fact, women are responsible for creating, sculpting, and pushing them to do their best. The attributes of Penelope, Athena, and Circe turned Odysseus from nothing into a pure hero through love, wisdom, and guidance.

The almighty powers of Penelope, Athena, and Circe turned Odysseus from nothing into a pure hero through love, wisdom, and guidance.

First of all, Penelope made Odysseus a hero through of her undying love and fidelity for him. Every day and night she would weep for him, even after almost twenty years. Even when pursued by other suitors, she refused them, remaining true to her husband who she had no doubt would return. In a way, her loyalty toward Odysseus was the true reason he never gave up his search for home. Odysseus faced many dangerous enemies, such as Syclla, Polyphemos, and Poseidon. However, not once did he hesitate, or forget the reason why he wished to stay alive and return to Ithaca. Odysseus worked hard to get home simply to be reunited with Penelope again. Similarly, her loyalty also helped Odysseus to turn away from temptation and to remain faithful to her. When he was with Calypso, for instance, he would not love her, but kept his heart free for Penelope. It is clear that Penelope’s love and loyalty gave Odysseus the strength and perseverance to return home.

In addition, Athena’s help and wisdom allowed Telamachos to become a man. Athena comes to him on Ithaca, where his father’s home is being ravaged by greedy suitors who mistreat and abuse his mother. She sends him on a journey that allows him to grow up, and to assert himself as a young man. This becomes evident early on, and continues to develop throughout the story. For instance, before leaving Ithaca, Telamachos calls a meeting among the suitors and tells them that they must leave his house and inheritance alone. Here he is clearly asserting himself and taking control of the estate and family that is rightfully his. Similarly, at the end of the novel he fights the suitors alongside his father. Although Athena protects them both, Telamachos has become a man of wit and valor, a man who understands the importance of family and honor. Because Athena puts these events into motion, Telamachos not only goes on a journey, but grows up a success, as well.

Lastly, Circe was an extremely wise woman whose guidance helped Odysseus survive. Although Odysseus outsmarted her charms, he would not have survived or reached Ithaca without her. Circe not only gave Odysseus and his crew food, water, and shelter, but also great advice. She taught them to be wary of the gods, and to respect those who wielded power over him. For instance, she told him to go to Hades and speak with Tiresias. By exploring the underworld and speaking with Achilles, Odysseus learned that glory and vanity were not as rewarding as a long and prosperous life. As Odysseus’ pride has in some ways led him to this wandering fate, this is an important lesson for him to learn. In addition, Circe warned him and his men not to eat or touch Helios’ cattle. Even though Odysseus was compliant, he learned quickly the wrath of the gods when his men did not heed her warning. Afterward, Odysseus knew to be more respectful and to fear the gods.

The power and guidance of women is what creates great men throughout The Odyssey. Women like Penelope, Athena, and Circe turned Odysseus and Telemachos into heroes, through their devotion, wisdom, and advice. While these men already possessed many positive attributes, they ultimately grew as individuals and leaders because of the lessons they learned from these powerful women. This reflects the power of women today, who often support great leaders, or who have become great leaders themselves.