Revising your thesis statement: Must have statement about the literatures meaning dont just express the

e theme such as Coming of Age, Good versus Evil, -- but explain what the literature says about the theme. The novel dramatizes the essential truth that the ultimate evil is the failure to take responsibility for ones own actions. Must be arguable must require evidence and proof to defend. Dont stake out a self -evident position. Dont prove a given. Get to the why not just the what. Nineteen Eighty-Four dramatizes Orwells opposition to totalitarianism. Should be: In his novel Orwell dramatizes why totalitarianism is a particular problem in the modern age. Todays modern urban citizen, who lives in a comfortable, technologically advanced world with greater access than ever to information and consumer goods, is more likely to submit to a central authority that makes him feel secure. As you polish your thesis consider using a formula like this: 1) Although _______X______, _______Y_______ is true.

Although the need for individual identity and personal freedom is a powerful human force, Winston Smith succumbs to the reality that tyrannical, totalitarian governments are a greater threat than ever in the modern world. 2) Explain the truth of the first statement

Smiths story dramatizes how the individual human will ultimately choose safety over freedom. 3) Write a culminating statement that explains how the literature justifies the first two statements. Todays modern urban citizen, who lives in a comfortable, technologically advanced world with greater access than ever to information and consumer goods, is more likely to submit to a central authority that makes him feel secure.

Another example: 1) Although Jane Eyre is a devoutly religious woman, she shuns St. John and the spiritually fulfilling life he offers her. 2) Jane wants a life that adheres to religious principles but is still grounded in real life 3) Through Janes evolving character, Bronte demonstrates that being human in the fullest sense means existing in this physical world while acknowledging the importance and meaning of transcendent ideals.