Elements of Language: Sixth Course, Chapter 5

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Writer's Model

Literary Analysis

A literary analysis of a drama is a close examination of the elements that make the play work. A good literary analysis looks at literary elements such as conflict, plot, and character, as well as theatrical elements such as props, movement, and costumes.

Many literary analyses use the structure illustrated in the framework below. Print this framework and use it as a guide when you write your own literary analysis.

Introduction
• Identify the literary work's title and author.
• Supply background information or a brief summary of the work.
• Provide a clear thesis statement.

Give important background information Summarize the play's major action and important themes, and include basic information like the name of the play and the playwright.
State your thesis Anchor your paper with a clear and concise thesis statement.

Body
• State major points supporting your thesis.
• Provide evidence (details from the primary source and possibly from secondary sources) that support each major point.

Support your thesis Write at least one paragraph for each major point that supports your thesis. Be sure to organize your points in either order of importance or in chronological order.
Offer literary evidence Provide examples from the play to support each of your major points. Then, explain how the literary evidence supports your point.

Conclusion
• Summarize your major points and restate your thesis.

Put it all together Restate your thesis and summarize your main points. Try to leave your readers with something to think about.