Write an Introduction for a Literary Analysis Essay

Summary

This video tutorial guides viewers on crafting an impactful introduction for a literary analysis essay. It introduces the 'Funnel Method,' starting with a broad theme and narrowing down to a thesis. Using 'Romeo and Juliet' as an example, the presenter illustrates how to develop an abstract idea, provide relevant background, and conclude with a thesis. The video also offers a practical exercise for viewers to practice writing introductions based on themes like freedom, vengeance, and pride.

Takeaways

• 📚 This video teaches how to write an introduction for a literary analysis essay.
• 🎓 The 'Funnel Method' is introduced as a strategy for writing introductions.
• 🗂️ Start with a broad, abstract idea related to the theme of the text, without mentioning the text's name.
• 📝 Relate the theme to the text by providing background information or specific details.
• 📖 The last sentence should be the thesis, which is the claim you aim to prove.
• 🔍 The 'Funnel Method' narrows from a general idea to a specific thesis, like a funnel.
• 🌟 Use the example of 'Romeo and Juliet' to illustrate the method.
• ❓ To find an abstract idea, ask about character motivations, goals, conflicts, and themes.
• 🚫 Avoid retelling the plot; assume the reader is already familiar with the text.
• 📝 Example thesis: 'Romeo's impulsiveness and Juliet's ignorance prevent them from avoiding their destiny.'
• 💡 Practice exercise: Write an introduction using themes like freedom, vengeance, or pride.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The main focus of the video is teaching how to write an effective introduction for a literary analysis essay using the Funnel Method.

What is a literary analysis essay?

A literary analysis essay is an essay that focuses on analyzing a book, poem, or any other type of text, often exploring themes, characters, and other literary elements.

What is the Funnel Method in writing an introduction?

The Funnel Method is a strategy for writing introductions where the paragraph starts with a broad, abstract idea and gradually narrows down to a specific thesis statement.

Why is it called the 'Funnel Method'?

It’s called the Funnel Method because, like a funnel, the introduction starts broad with general ideas and narrows down to a specific point, which is the thesis.

What should be included in the broad, abstract idea in the introduction?

The broad, abstract idea should deal with a universal theme or commentary on human nature, without directly mentioning the text yet.

What type of background information should be included in the introduction?

The background information should provide relevant details from the text, such as character names, setting, or key events, to connect the abstract idea to the text.

What is a thesis statement in a literary analysis essay?

The thesis statement is the final sentence of the introduction, presenting the main claim or argument that the essay will aim to prove.

What example is used to demonstrate the Funnel Method in the video?

The example used is Shakespeare’s play 'Romeo and Juliet,' with the abstract idea focusing on the concept of fate versus free will.

What should be avoided in the introduction of a literary analysis essay?

The introduction should avoid retelling the plot of the text, assuming the reader is already familiar with the work.

What exercise is given to viewers at the end of the video?

Viewers are asked to practice writing an introduction by selecting a theme (freedom and independence, vengeance, or pride) and creating an abstract idea, background information, and thesis statement related to a text of their choice.