There are three approaches to thesis writing:


This clever sample literature analysis is at its strongest when it discusses the two conmen who try to fool others with their knowledge of Shakespeare.


Chekov, Anton. “ The Lady with the Little Dog.” [First published 1899]. Rpt. Ed. Ann Charter. Compact 6th ed. Boston: Bedford/ St. Martin’s 2003. 143-155.

Although at times a bit wordy - the first sentence could probably use a little simplifying - this example AP English essay would be a good reference for a student who wants to analyze what shapes a character's worldview.

stating the author’s implied warning to the reader

If you have any difficulty in writing this kind of essay or you need some examples for a brainstorming session, try our . It is free, offering different options: the language, tone of narration, and whatnot.

In this example literary analysis paper, the author points out that Huck Finn can understand the harsh realities of slavery and thus reject the ideals of the American South.

We hope that this article will be quite useful for students interested in developing literary skills. And if anybody asks them a question, "What is the purpose of a literary analysis essay?" They may answer it without any problem. If speaking briefly, its purpose is to investigate the text in both spheres – words and senses.

It should contain the name of the author of the literary work along with its title. The introduction should be effective enough to grab the reader’s attention.


Agatucci, Cora. “Emergence of the Short Story.” Printed 10/14/03. .

According to a literary analysis essay definition, the main person's activity here is to explore the textual issue and interpret the author's message.

Play it safe – let professional writers show you how it’s done!

Carver, Raymond. “The Ashtray.”[First published 1984] Rpt. . Ed. Ann Charters. Compact 6th ed. Boston: Bedford/ St. Martins, 2003. 949.

Body Paragraph 1: Analysis of the Plot

There are a lot of types of this essay. We mention only some examples to inspire you. The type of work may depend on both theoretical and critical edges. A student may analyze such issues as:

Body Paragraph 3: Theme Exploration

Being a final literary analysis paragraph, a conclusion summarizes all the key moments of the essay, emphasizes the significance of the topic one more time, and accentuates the importance of the investigation.

Ready to take the next big step for your writing?

In the body section, you have to retell the story that the writer has narrated. It is a good idea to create a summary as it is one of the important tips of literary analysis.

Charters, Ann. “The Elements of Fiction.” [header note.]

The thesis is used like a skeleton and every point – like flash, finally getting a sound organism. Each paragraph here should touch on one aspect. As a rule, it begins with a chosen argument. Then a textual illustration follows, and an explanation of its usage as well. Sometimes it is advisable to present quotes, in other cases – your own summary of the author's expressive means.

The thesis relies on a strong verb (creates).

It is the core of your investigation. Always remember that literary analysis format always implicates both arguments and textual evidence (quotations among the others) to support all the matter.