Essay Overview
For your Presentation Essay, you will compose a 9-page, critical analysis on your presentation poem and at least one other
poem from The Norton Introduction to Literature, which is due before class on Friday, March 7th.
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Your essay should critically analyze your chosen texts, featuring your ability to interpret meaning, compare and contrast
other works, synthesize new ideas, and demonstrate an awareness of logic and reasoning. Since you have the benefit of
revision, you should expect to produce a mechanically sound and stylistic paper, one that clearly presents a thoughtful and
original position.
Prompt
1. Develop an original, insightful thesis statement that compares the poem you presented in class to at least one other
poetic selection from The Norton Introduction to Literature. Within your analysis, discuss how the meaning is
informed by content (plot, setting, symbolism, etc.) and form: lineation, rhyme, meter, alliteration, diction, or other
rhetorical features.
Secondary Sources and Works Cited Page
In addition to The Norton Introduction to Literature, you must cite at least two secondary outside sources that in some way
strengthen your essay. Your sources might provide additional evidence to support your thesis, illustrate a specific point you
have presented, or address the viewpoint of another writer you wish to agree with or argue against.
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The quality of your secondary sources also matters, meaning that academic or research-oriented sources will be valued for
credibility over simple Google searches and popular opinion. While you are welcome to cite in-class texts such as class
discussions or papers, these should not be counted as outside sources. For the best sources, plan on visiting the library for
books and journal articles, which you may review as hard copies or as electronic ones.
Cite your sources parenthetically in your essay, and then attach a Works Cited page as a separate page at the end of your
essay.
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