The Analytical Essay

What is an analytical essay?

1- A structured piece of writing which proves a thesis.

THESIS STATEMENT

“A statement that appears near the beginning of a paper, and it offers a concise solution to the issue being addressed. It states the claim of the argument presented in a paper. A thesis statement is usually one sentence, though it may occur as more than one.”

Good examples of thesis statements: “Oedipus Tyrannus conveys the powerful concept that humans do not control their own destiny and no matter what heights they achieve, they cannot escape the will of the Gods.” “Because the internet is filled with tremendous marketing potential, companies should exploit this potential by using web pages that offer both advertising and customer support.”

Bad examples of thesis statements: “The novel Night was a powerful book with many examples of cruelty.” “There are some negative and positive aspects to the Banana Herb Tea Supplement.”

In other words….a thesis is your argument--it is what the whole essay is proving to be true.

2- It analyses a particular topic and provides evidence.

-Language choice -Evidence -Structure -Presentation of content 3- It is persuasive. -Language choice -Evidence -Structure -Presentation of content

4- It is formal …sophisticated language, no abbreviations and definitely no slag or text talk.

STRUCTURE

Paragraph 1: INTRODUCTION HOOK – this sentence should engage the reader somehow. Basic background information: Book title, author, relevant information from book. BRIEFLY summarize the plot. Thesis statement and supporting points. *Be sure that your sentences flow well… you might need to include some transition sentences.*

Paragraphs 2-3-4: BODY Each body paragraph should be devoted to a piece of evidence that will justify your thesis. This should be clearly stated in the first sentence of each paragraph, then subsequently justified. -Make a clear link to the thesis -Provide a reference to the text (usually a quotation) -JUSTIFY!

Paragraph 5: CONCLUSION This can be the most challenging paragraph…even though you are not presenting any new ideas. Restate thesis: rephrase it while maintaining the meaning. Make it sound more like a ‘done deal’. Presume that the reader agrees with you. Use words like “definitely” and “absolutely”. Restate your 3 points: reread the first few sentences of your body paragraphs. Try to make them more concise and convincing. End with a ‘closing sentence’.

If you don’t edit your essay after you’ve written it… If you don’t edit your essay after you’ve written it…. a goblin will eat you in your sleep.