Formal Analysis
Due Date
Sept. 24 by 11:59 p.m. All papers should be posted to Moodle.
Directions
In 2-3 pages you will examine how the medium – the written form – impacts the argument of the piece: a process called close reading. The point here is to pay attention not just to what the creator is saying, but how they say it through imagery, metaphor, symbolism, description, etc. Close reading is important because it is the building block for larger analysis. Your thoughts evolve not from someone else’s ideas about the reading, but from your own observations. The more closely you observe, the more meaningful and precise your ideas will be.
Choose a 6-10 line passage from any of the texts we’ve read so far that interests you. You can either start with a general theme you want to discuss and look for a passage that treats that theme, or you start with a passage you like. Begin writing by copying out the passage, word for word, at the top of the first page of your essay (this should be single spaced). Be sure to contextualize the passage within the larger work.
Then ask yourself: what is happening in the text (what words or phrases do you notice); what is the effect of what you notice (how does that word impact the portrayal of nature); what is the context (in the passage, in history), and finally why might the author have written this passage in this way? Use your answers to these questions to discuss and analyze the passage. Be specific about what is in the passage (quote or name particular words, images, patterns in your interpretation), and be clear about what you think they mean.
Format and Grading Criteria
Your essay including reflection should be 2-3 pages long. A successful essay should be focused on a specific and detailed analysis of a particular text. This project is worth 15% of your final grade.
Lateness Penalty
Unless I have approved a deadline extension in advance, late submissions will be lowered by a letter grade per 24-hour period. Late penalties begin immediately. If you want an extension, you must contact us at least 24 hours before the paper is due.