Discussion 18 – Outline for Essay 3
Essay 3 – Hamlet [ THIS IS ONLY AN OUTLINE ASSIGNMENT ]
Write a 5-7 page literary analysis argument essay in response to the prompt below. You will need to support your argument with analysis of specific examples from the text of the novel, as well as evidence from two literary criticism articles published in academic journals.
PROMPT:
Hamlet pretends he is mad (i.e. insane) to disguise his true intentions. Is he ever actually insane? Discuss the representation and significance of madness (i.e. insanity) in Hamlet.
Minimum Criteria (to earn a C or higher):
- Thesis statement. This should be a statement that clearly offers some argument regarding an aspect the play (avoid merely summarizing the plot). Your thesis should come near the end of the first paragraph. With this essay, make sure to move beyond the “list thesis” (i.e. the listing of topics that will be discussed).
- Well organized argument with . . .
o Clear and logical paragraphing. This includes how the ideas are divided into paragraphs, the order of the ideas, topic sentences and transitions. Each paragraph should focus on just one idea, and the line of thought should be easy for a reader to follow.
o Supporting quotes from the play. These quotations should be properly integrated and cited, as discussed in the resources in this course.
o Analysis and interpretation of specific evidence from the text, including supporting quotes. Your essay should not consist of a plot summary. You can assume that the reader of your paper has read the play but is not an expert on the play.
o Correct MLA in-text citation and Works Cited page. See the sample essays referenced above.
o Support from at least two outside sources, specifically articles of literary criticism (i.e. interpretation) from academic journals. These sources can be from one of the library databases or from reliable Internet sites that publish academic journal articles. Book and movie reviews, summaries, and study guides are not acceptable sources. These sources should also be correctly documented using MLA style in-text citations and a Works Cited page. Failure to use two acceptable sources will result in a 20-point deduction on your essay score.