Dialectical Journals Finding the truth in literature through your thoughts and analysis

What is a dialectical journal (DJ)? dialectical (die-uh-LEKT-i-cul), n. : the art or practice of arriving at the truth through logical arguments. journal (JUHR-nul), n. : a personal record of events, experiences, and reflections kept on a regular basis; a diary.

Huh?! then Simply put, if “dialectical” means the art or practice of arriving at the truth by the exchange of logical arguments, then a dialectical journal, is used to arrive at the “truth” of a written work through the written response to quotations from that work.

What do I write? Look for quotes that seem significant, powerful, and/or thought provoking. Effective &/or creative use of stylistic or literary devices Structural shifts or turns in the plot A passage that makes you realize something you hadn’t seen before Examples of patterns: recurring images, symbols or motifs. Passages that illustrate a particular character Identify, discuss and track the development of a particular theme A connection/reaction to the text

What to look for in your reading Whether you are reading a poem, article, short story, or novel, DJ is an essential way to study literature and find a deeper meaning. Some dialectical assignments will ask for you to look for specific items such as, rhetorical devices, author’s point of view, or cultural context. Some ask for you to give your thoughts, questions, making connections...

…some ask you to do both! For example, here is a quote from Gone with the Wind Literary Device: Simile Literary Device: Simile “She looked-and was-as simple as earth, as good as bread, as transparent as spring water”(7). M. Mitchell

Reader’s Response Scarlett’s description of Melanie is a simile. She is compared to simple objects by the word “as.” Scarlett is not a plain, simple woman; in fact, the exact opposite. She is pretty and complex. So, Scarlett compared Melanie to what she thought as simple objects: bread, water, earth. Ironically, all three objects are just as complex as Scarlett.

Reader’s Response Scarlett’s description of Melanie is a simile. She is compared to simple objects by the word “as.” Scarlett is not a plain, simple woman; in fact, the exact opposite. She is pretty and complex. So, Scarlett compared Melanie to what she thought as simple objects: bread, water, earth. Ironically, all three objects are just as complex as Scarlett.

Reader’s Response Scarlett’s description of Melanie is a simile. She is compared to simple objects by the word “as.” Scarlett is not a plain, simple woman; in fact, the exact opposite. She is pretty and complex. So, Scarlett compared Melanie to what she thought as simple objects: bread, water, earth. Ironically, all three objects are just as complex as Scarlett.

How do I lay out my DJ? SIDE BY SIDE Quote Quote In the left-hand column, you write out the quote from your reading. Response Response Your response will go in the right-hand column. This is where you will write out your questions, reactions, connections, analysis, and thoughts.

Dialectical Example “She looked-and was-as simple as earth, as good as bread, as transparent as spring water”(7). Scarlett’s description of Melanie is a simile. She is compared to simple objects by the word “as.” Scarlett is not a plain, simple woman; in fact, the exact opposite. She is pretty and complex. So, Scarlett compared Melanie to what she thought as simple objects: bread, water, earth. Ironically, all three objects are just as complex as Scarlett.