The power of a great introduction - Carolyn Mohr

Summary

This script offers practical advice for writing a compelling literary analysis, beginning with the importance of crafting a strong introduction. It emphasizes how a hook, like intriguing imagery or an emotional connection, is crucial for capturing the reader’s attention. By using Charles Dickens’ *Great Expectations* as an example, the script demonstrates how to find a thesis through questioning, analysis of patterns, and careful observation. The video further advises writing the thesis before the introduction and revising both for maximum impact, all while urging writers to create engaging, thoughtful content that resonates with their readers.

Takeaways

• 😀 A strong story hook is essential for engaging readers right from the beginning, as seen in the memorable introductions of various works of literature.
• 😀 Writing an effective introduction for a literary analysis essay can be challenging, but it’s crucial for grabbing the reader's attention.
• 😀 Your introduction in an essay should be the last thing you write, as your thesis should guide the rest of the writing process.
• 😀 Start by writing your thesis first, so you know exactly what you want to analyze before delving into your essay.
• 😀 Asking questions about the text you're analyzing can help you find a focused and clear thesis statement.
• 😀 A focused thesis statement lays the foundation for the entire essay, including the introduction and analysis.
• 😀 The analysis section of your essay should be structured around patterns and answers to the questions you ask about the text.
• 😀 In analyzing literature, identifying patterns (e.g., character traits or symbols) can help build a meaningful argument.
• 😀 Literary elements like character traits or symbols (e.g., hands in Dickens' works) can be analyzed to reveal broader themes like social class inequities.
• 😀 Avoid beginning your introduction with overused phrases, such as famous quotes or rhetorical questions. Instead, aim for intrigue by considering historical context or broader ideas.
• 😀 Crafting and revising your thesis and introduction carefully is key—boredom in the writing process will lead to a dull reading experience for the audience.

Q & A

Why is the introduction to a literary analysis important?

The introduction is crucial because it hooks the reader's interest and sets the tone for the entire essay. It introduces the topic and prepares the reader for the thesis statement, creating an engaging entry into the analysis.

What is the suggested approach for writing the introduction in a literary analysis?

The best approach is to write the introduction last. This allows you to first focus on developing your thesis and understanding what you want to analyze, so you can craft an introduction that effectively supports the rest of your essay.

How does one develop a strong thesis for a literary analysis?

Start by asking specific questions about the text, such as why certain elements are emphasized, and then answer those questions to form patterns. Your thesis should reflect these patterns and guide your analysis.

What example is provided to demonstrate how to narrow down an analysis focus?

The example of 'hands' in Charles Dickens' *Great Expectations* illustrates how focusing on a recurring element, like hands, can reveal social class inequities, which forms the basis of the thesis and analysis.

What role do patterns play in writing a literary analysis?

Patterns help to identify significant themes or symbols in the text. By examining recurring elements, such as the symbolism of hands in *Great Expectations*, you can pinpoint deeper meanings and develop a focused thesis.

What is the primary symbol explored in the analysis example?

The primary symbol discussed is 'hands,' which are used in Dickens' *Great Expectations* to represent social class inequities and criticize the societal conditions of Victorian London.

What should you avoid when starting your introduction?

You should avoid starting with overused strategies like famous quotations, dictionary definitions, or rhetorical questions. These approaches are often too generic and don't engage the reader effectively.

What is the suggested tone or approach for crafting an introduction?

The introduction should be intriguing and inspire curiosity. It should draw the reader in with an engaging idea, historical context, or anecdote that connects to the broader concept of the essay.

Why is the introduction compared to the opening lines of a story?

The introduction is compared to the opening lines of a story because, just like a good story, it should hook the reader and make them want to continue. It should create interest and set the stage for the analysis that follows.

What is a key takeaway from the script about writing a literary analysis?

A key takeaway is that the introduction should be crafted last, after the thesis and analysis are fully developed, ensuring that it effectively leads the reader into the argument while maintaining engagement.