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World Literature
Persuasive Essay—Heroes
A persuasive essay is a sound argument of a position backed up with facts, details,
examples and one additional element—appeal. Persuasion is the kind of writing
that depends on the reader’s reaction to what the writer says. One should
remember that the goal of persuasive writing is to make the reader change from his
viewpoint to the writer’s viewpoint. Therefore, the writer must present his
argument in a way that will not offend his reader.

TOPIC: In the epic poem Iliad, who best fits the traits of the hero? Hector or Achilles?
In your essay, persuade your audience that either Achilles or Hector is the better example
of the archetypal hero.
I. Introduction
 Begin your introductory paragraph by discussing the fact that heroes have many
characteristics.
 List some possible heroic characteristics.
 Include the title of the epic and the author (Homer).
 State your thesis at the end of the paragraph—Achilles or Hector is the better hero
II. Body Paragraphs
 Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence—an example of an archetypal/epic hero
trait that the hero possesses
 Include specific examples from the Iliad.
 End each paragraph with a Clincher/Transition sentence that wraps up this idea and
moves us to the next idea.
Warning **Pitfalls to avoid in body paragraphs: stereotypes, name-calling, slanting the truth,
quoting out of context, and distortions of the oppositions’ views. Remember: Using unfair
persuasive techniques to disguise weakness in one’s own position or to discredit the opposition’s
views that are worthy of serious attention is propaganda.
III. Conclusion Paragraph
 Begin the conclusion paragraph by introducing a new, but related idea.
 Make a general statement about your hero choice and why he is the better hero
 Make a general statement of appeal. (These may also be addressed in your body
paragraphs)
 Make a general statement of counterpoints.
 End the paragraph with a fabulous sentence that makes the audience really want to
change their own ideas and adopt yours.
Source: Julie Clifton