The Analytical Literary Essay

Introductions and Conclusions

Introductions The introduction of an essay

(especially a literary essay) consists of the following:Broad opening statement (1-2

sentences)Plot summary (1-2 sentences)Author’s name, title of literature,

genreThesis statement

Tips for the Broad Opening Statement

Look at your thesis for inspiration. Pull one or two key words and focus on those. For example, if your thesis is about whether Odysseus is a strong leader, then focus your opening on qualities on leadership.

Avoid absolutes (everyone, all people, no one always, never) Example: Good leaders always make decisions for the group as a whole.

Example IntroductionBroad Opening Statement

Religion has long served as a source of guidance and strength, especially during times of struggle. However, in the period of 1941-1945, many questioned their faith and some lost it altogether when faced with the atrocities of the Holocaust.

Example Introduction

Introduce literary work/plot

In Holocaust survivor, Elie Wiesel’s memoir Night, Wiesel bears witness to the cruelty of the Holocaust while examining his dwindling religious faith

Example Introduction

Thesis However, even after witnessing many

atrocities, Elie’s faith only wavers instead of being fully discarded, because

of his inner strength and determination, his enlightenment following a particularly disburbing incident, and his relationship with his father.

Putting it all together(Broad Opening Statement) Religion has long served as a source of guidance and strength, especially during times of struggle. However, in the period of 1941-1945, many questioned their faith and some lost it altogether when faced with the atrocities of the Holocaust. (Introduce literary work) In Holocaust survivor, Elie Wiesel’s memoir Night, Wiesel bears witness to the cruelty of the Holocaust while examining his dwindling religious faith. (Thesis) However, even after witnessing many atrocities, Elie’s faith only wavers instead of being fully discarded, because of his inner strength and determination, his enlightenment following a particularly disturbing incident, and his relationship with his father.