PROMPT: Write a 500 word essay in MLA format (if you have Word, use the MLA template or see this MLA manuscript link (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.) illustrating up to 3 literary elementsplot/structure, setting, point of view, characters, style, tone, or themeon ONE of the poems. Attribute only the author and the reader; never use 1st person in an analysis.
For example:
CORRECT: Edgar Allan Poe creates Fortunato as a round character who suffers.
INCORRECT: I think Fortunato is a round character who suffers.
The introduction should state the author and the poem title (in quotation marks), and a 2-4 line plot summary. Then state the forthcoming literary elements and the effects of each.
In the body of the paper, (Prove it!) define, explain, and support the literary elements with at least one integrated quotation for each element.
In the conclusion, restate the purpose and summarize the three elements.
The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock, T. S. Eliot
“Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” Robert Frost
Harlem, Langston Hughes
“Lady Lazarus” Sylvia Plath
Suggested format:
Introduction: Introduce author, title, plot, purpose (literary elements)
Body paragraph: Theme + quotation(s) to prove it
Body paragraph: Imagery + quotation(s) to prove it
Body paragraph: Figurative language + quotation(s) to prove it
Conclusion: Restate purpose and add final thoughts
For example: In “Harlem,” Langston Hughes illustrates the effects of a dream deferred or put on hold. What metaphors does he use to show the effects? Are they negative or positive images? Why is the poem entitled Harlem considering it was published in 1951? How might the last line of the poem be interpreted?
