Argumentative Essay

Semester 1 Final Exam: Writing ComponentDirections: Choose one of the topics below and write a well-supported argumentative essay. Be sure to give textual evidence (cite specific quotes) and craft your essay according to the 6 Good Writing Traits. The final draft will be submitted through turnitin.com. Argumentative Topics for The CrucibleTOPIC 1 Drama: Although Miller bases The Crucible on the historical events of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials, he employs several techniques to add dramatic tension. How does Miller achieve this intensity and how effective are they in convincing the audience? Consider his use of dialogue, stage direction, set, irony, or any other dramatic device. Defend your position.TOPIC 2 Power Dynamics: One of the important motifs worth examining in The Crucible is that of power: who has it, how they got it, how they use it, and for what ends. Select one or more characters (they can be powerful or powerless) and examine the ways in which the exercise their authority or, in the case of someone powerless, struggle against their powerless state. Defend your position. TOPIC 3 John Proctor: Arthur Miller introduces the protagonist of his play as a “sinner” while some critics view him as a Christ-like figure. Make an argument for or against John Proctor’s character. Is he a man of integrity? Or is he beyond redemption? Defend your position.TOPIC 4 Courageous: Who do you think is the most courageous character in The Crucible? How are they courageous? Defend your position.

ESSAY OUTLINEThesis: T.A.G. + Claim (3 reasons, examples, etc.)

Body Paragraph 1Topic SentenceQuote (Concrete Detail)

CommentaryCommentary

Concluding SentenceBody Paragraph 2

Topic SentenceQuote (Concrete Detail)

CommentaryCommentary

Concluding SentenceBody Paragraph 3

Topic SentenceQuote (Concrete Detail)

CommentaryCommentary

Concluding SentenceConclusion

How is the quote significant? How does it support your thesis?

How is the quote significant? How does it support your thesis?

How is the quote significant? How does it support your thesis?

Thesis: in Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible (1952), Abigail wields power through deception, seduction, and threats.

Reason # 3 (Topic Sentence): Abigail exercises power through threats.

Concrete Detail 1 (Quote): For instance, she warns Betty and Mary Warren, “Let either of you breathe a word, or the edge of a word […] I will come to you in the black of some terrible night and I will bring a pointy reckoning that will shudder you” (Miller 175).

Opinion (Analysis/ How does this support your position?): She puts fear in the girls by threatening violence with a knife.

Opinion (So What?): She uses intimidation in order to manipulate the girls into keeping her secret.

EXAMPLE