Features of Literary Essays”
What is a literary essay, and how is it different from a monograph or a technical document?
: A literary essay is a prose writing that analyzes or reflects on a topic freely chosen by the author. It differs from a monograph or technical document because it is less structured and more subjective, poetic, and personal.
What kind of language and style is typically used in a literary essay?
A literary essay uses a vocabulary and style that is poetic, clear, and accessible to a general audience.
What are the three main parts of a literary essay?
Introduction, body, and conclusion.
Who is the protagonist of Nineteen Eighty-Four?
Winston Smith
What is the purpose of the introduction in a literary essay?
The introduction states the topic the text is going to deal with.
Why do literary essays always involve a subjective and personal point of view?
Because they express the author’s opinions and arguments in a personal way, even though they are supported by logic and information.
Can you name two essayists mentioned in the text who have contributed to the genre of the literary essay?
Michel de Montaigne and Francis Bacon.
What should a strong introduction include?
A hook, context, and a clear thesis statement
Which of the following is one way that Big Brother and his regime do not exercise control of language?
Shutting down all schools
What does the development section of a literary essay include?
It presents the author’s argument and theories or opinions, and may include data or information to help the reader understand the topic better
Which areas or subjects do essays commonly explore according to the text?
Essays deal with topics in politics, society, philosophy, and the arts.
How are literary essays classified according to the text?
They are classified according to their subject matter, such as literature or the arts.
What is the function of body paragraphs in a literary essay?
To develop and support the thesis using evidence and analysis.
Is this true or false? Orwell thought that language shaped our thoughts and opinions.
True
What is the function of the conclusion in a literary essay?
The conclusion highlights the main ideas of the essay or the ideas the author wants to emphasize because they reflect their opinions or conclusions.
How does the author of a literary essay support their opinions and arguments?
With logic and information, while using a poetic and personal style
Why is it important for a literary essay to be understood by a general audience?
Because it is meant to communicate ideas clearly and reflectively, not just to specialists but to everyone.
How should a conclusion be structured?
It should restate the thesis, summarize main points, and offer insight.
Is this true or false? George Orwell gave his unconditional endorsement to all left-leaning political parties.
False
What is an argumentative essay?
An argumentative essay defends an idea or opinion with reasons and evidence.
Why should a literary essay not be confused with more structured and objective types of texts?
Because literary essays use style, vocabulary, and structure that aim to be understood by all, and they focus on personal reflection, unlike specialized texts.
Based on the reading, how has the literary essay served as a vehicle for debating ideas throughout history?
Many great essayists have used the form to present and argue ideas in a reflective and accessible way, making it a tool for the debate of ideas over time
Why is it important to use transitions between paragraphs?
To ensure logical flow and coherence throughout the essay.
What current examples can you provide of how our society or government affects our language?
Governments and media often shape language by promoting certain terms over others, such as using "collateral damage" instead of "civilian deaths" in war contexts, or replacing "global warming" with "climate change."
How is an analytical essay different from a descriptive essay?
An analytical essay breaks down a topic to understand how it works or is structured, while a descriptive essay describes something in detail using sensory language.