Download Othello Analysis Essay Planning/Writing Steps

Othello Analysis Essay
Step 1: Choose your topic/approach
Character analysis?
Theme/motif analysis?
Literary criticism lens?
Step 2: Write a STRONG thesis statement
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Remember: one way to write an effective thesis is to focus on what the writer does with the
book. You can start with “Through ___________________, Shakespeare
explores/demonstrates/shows….” Make sure your whole essay will support the thesis
statement you create.
(A thesis statement CAN consist of a couple of sentences. It doesn’t just have to be one sentence.)
Step 3: Plan your focus for each body paragraph
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You need to decide if you need 3, 4, or 5 body paragraphs to support your thesis statement.
Then think of the best order for those body paragraphs. You want to build up to your
strongest point last in order to leave your reader with your strongest ideas.
Next, write a strong topic sentence for each body paragraph, a statement that will govern
that WHOLE paragraph (a POINT you want to make, NOT a plot detail or summary).
Step 4: Gather evidence
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Start jotting down supporting details, examples, and quotations that you will put in each
body paragraph.
You need to incorporate quotations from the play AND the articles we read. Look back
through the articles and re-read passages that pertain to your topic and your main
arguments.
Do NOT let the quotes do all the talking for you, though. Try to make sure that at least 2/3
of each body paragraph consists of YOUR ideas/commentary.
Remember: You MUST cite your source not only for direct quotations, but also for unique
theories/ideas that came from an outside source.
Parenthetical reference examples:
Play: (I.ii.43-47)
Articles: (Spivack 29)