Character Analysis Paper

Due: Friday, Feb. 13

In an essay of 500 to 750 words, write a character analysis of one of the significant characters that we have encountered in the book, showing clearly how our understanding of the character helps us to understand or interpret the story.  You may choose either a major or minor character.

 

In addition to examining the author's methods of characterization, try to determine to what extent conflict, setting, and language play a part in our understanding. (This does not mean that you will devote a separate developmental paragraph to each of these.)

Remember that whatever choice you make, the response should center upon your ideas about the subject--with reference to the text or texts used solely for supporting the various points you will be making. To insure that you have adequate, specific support, you will want to make certain that you draw upon the text, using well-chosen supporting quotations.

 

While use of sources outside the novel is not required for this assignment, you are to follow MLA guidelines for parenthetical documentation, and you are to provide a "Works Cited" entry for the story.  (We will cover this in class.)

 

A successful paper will have a focused thesis statement which points specifically to the direction your development will take. Without one, your reader is inadequately prepared for your presentation. Then, make certain that your entire essay deals directly and emphatically with that thesis. The most common deficiency in essays about literature is the loss of focus on the central idea; instead of using the materials in the piece of literature to show that the idea is reasonable and valid, the unthinking writer will often lapse into simply retelling the narrative as if the idea were self-evident from the plot line. Simply retelling or summarizing a work does not show an understanding of it; when you summarize you are merely following the material. Your goal should be to lead the material in order to drive home your point.

 

In some fashion, your introduction should:

1) identify the piece of literature by title and author;

2) provide your thesis;

3) suggest the importance of that thesis to the reader's general understanding of the piece; and

4) establish the dramatic context or background to your discussion by offering a brief summary or overview of the piece. (Give the author's full name for the first reference; subsequent references need only the last name.)

 

You need to have a conclusion that does more than simply restate your thesis.  Try to answer the question: So what?

 

Your paper needs to be typed, double spaced with Times New Roman 12 font.  You will be assessed for grammar and mechanics.

 

Timeline:

·        Prewriting is due Monday, February 9th  

·        First draft it due Wednesday, February 11th 

·        Final draft with all prewriting and drafts is due February 13th

 

TOTAL:  100 test points

 

Late papers will lose 20 points if turned in on Feb. 17th, 30 if turned in on Feb. 18th, and late and will not be accepted after that.

 

You must also submit your paper into turnitin.com by

Questions to consider for prewriting:

1. Give your initial reaction to the character by completing the following sentence: “{Name of Character} in {WORK}  is . . .”
 
2. What does the character do that shows he/she fits the description you have given?

3. What does the character say that shows he/she fits the description you have given?

4. How do other characters react to your character?  How do their reactions show he/she fits the description you have given?

6. Consider what theme from the novel is supported by your character - i.e., why did the author chose to create this particular character and have him/her go through the experiences he/she does? 

7. Is there any evidence that suggests the character does not fit the description you have given?  What is it?  How do you explain this evidence?

8. Does the character change over time?  If so, how?  What is significant to the story/theme about this change or lack of change?