The Thesis

Take your best theme and transform it into a thesis:

In ____________________, ______________ uses Title of Work Author Name_______________________ to __________________ Device marker verb

____________________________________________. Theme goes here

Your Thematic Essay Will:• Be at least four paragraphs long; the outline is:I. Introductory paragraph: 4-6 sentences (See Module 1)

a. Hookb. Bridgec. Thesis

II. Body Paragraph I: Character I (8-9 sentences)a. Assertion (See Module 2)b. Embedded evidence with citationc. Two-three sentences of commentaryd. Second Evidencee. Two-three sentences of commentary

III. Body Paragraph II: Character II (8-9 sentences)Same format as body paragraph I

IV. Conclusion: 4-6 sentencesa. rephrased thesisb. strategy (see Module 3)

Module 1: Introductory Paragraph (The Hook)

Introduction

Introduction• Is a snapshot and gives the reader a taste of what

the paper will discuss.

To introduce an essay, you may:

• Use a vivid or powerful quotation that has relevance to your topic.• Create an analogy for your subject.• Define a concept central to your argument.

□ The introduction need not be longer than 4 – 6 sentences. Lengthy introductions tend to ramble and can distract from the topic and lose focus.

What to avoid in your introduction• Cliché statements: “Webster’s dictionary defines

friendship as …”• First person point of view: “In this essay I will

show…”• Asking rhetorical questions: “Have you ever

wondered what would happen…” (Also avoid addressing the reader)

• Vague or abstract language• Broad generalizations: “Symbolism is a powerful

tool used in literature…”• Any attempt at humor, cleverness, or sarcasm

Example 1: Quotation Introduction

Social activist Ana Castillo once said “I have lived my life in a foreign film.” The idea that she is “typecast” into roles within her life reflects that society does not allow her to feel accepted or safe. Similarly, in the essay “Subtitles,” the writer Yolanda Aguirre explores the negative effects of being on the edges of a society. Through her stories about the trials of migrant farmers in Nebraska, Aguirre explores the theme that feelings of self worth are difficult to attain when one feels excluded by the dominant society.

Example 2: Analogy

Among the long list of traits an effective leader must possess, confidence and the ability to speak eloquently and powerfully are necessary to reveal a presence of competence. These traits allow a leader to connect with his or her people, creating trust and admiration. Additionally, characters in classical literature also reveal societal expectations of sound leadership. A playwright, for example, can build a character who greatly inspires those around them. Christopher Marlowe’s Tamburlaine the Great uses the character of Tamburlaine to reveal the message that the title and respect afforded a leader are earned only with self sacrifice and honor.

Example 3: Defining a Concept

A woman’s role in marriage has fascinated and caused controversy for as the institution of marriage has existed. Since a woman’s role within marriage is often seen as “lesser,” it is interesting to see how some cultures positively define a woman’s value in a partnership. The Ramayana of Valmiki and the Tales of Genji reflect the message that a woman’s faithfulness and sense of duty are what truly give a community honor.