Literature Question

Learning Goal: I’m working on a literature project and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

For this last assignment in this unit, we are going to write a thematic analysis essay on the story you just read in this unit. In each unit leading up to this one, we have been studying and writing about a literary device. We are going to continue to build on those skills we have learned as well as the insights we have gained about culture and demonstrate these skills and insights in a short thematic analysis essay. Below is the task list as well as an overview of what needs to be included in your essay.

Tasks:

• Choose one of the major themes of the story from this lesson, “Love Must Not Be Forgotten.”
• Create an accurate, clear, and insightful theme statement.
• Write an essay analyzing and defending your theme with supporting evidence from the story.

When writing your analysis, consider the following:

1. Begin with an introductory paragraph that introduces the story and states the theme.
2. Then write paragraphs that include information about each of the following:
   • Explain how the title connects to the theme.
   • Explain how the author uses character development to develop the theme.
   • Explain how the author uses conflicts to develop the theme.
   • Explain how the author uses setting develop the theme.
   • Throughout your piece, correctly incorporate at least five quotes that support your thematic analysis. If you are not sure about how to cite direct quotations, please visit Purdue Owl’s article: MLA Formatting Quotes.
3. Close with a conclusion that supports how the theme is universal by explaining its relevance to your own life/culture or another culture’s; in other words, make connections to it.

Please see the rubric for a scoring breakdown.

7.3 Thematic Analysis Essay Rubric