The WHAT: You have now been introduced to the basic components of a literary analysis, including theme, imagery, and motif. Draft an essay illustrating your understanding of and ability to apply the analytical concepts discussed in class.
The HOW: You will use “The Odour of Chrysanthemums” and “The Garden Party” to develop a unique interpretation of ONE THEME expressed throughout BOTH texts. Then, you will craft a thorough analytical essay by supporting your interpretation with specific evidence from multiple plot points within the text.
Introduction: Your essay needs an introductory paragraph that includes your topic and thesis. This is also the place to set up background and/or context for the discussion that will follow in the body paragraphs. Somewhere in the intro, give the story titles and the authors’ full names. Afterwards, use only the author’s last name. For example, In “The Story of an Hour,” Kate Chopin writes about a woman who realizes she is trapped in her marriage. Chopin follows Mrs. Mallard as she finds her freedom only to lose it when Brentley returns (note: you’re writing about “The Odour of Chrysanthemums” and “The Garden Party,” NOT “The Story of an Hour.”)
Thesis: Your essay must have a thesis—a central assertion about the story that requires support. The thesis statement should appear as the last sentence of your introduction paragraph. General, factual statements are not theses. If you write: “The story ends with Mrs. Mallard’s death,” you have stated fact, and therefore have not created a thesis. However, if you state: “With Mrs. Mallard, Chopin offers a critical view of nineteenth century marriage,” then you have made a statement that requires supporting evidence and discussion and which is, therefore, a thesis.
