Literary Term - Analytical Essay

 

Literary Term

Analytical Essay 

Definition of Analytical Essay

An analytical essay is a type of literary device that involves the critical examination and evaluation of a text or an idea. It requires the writer to break down a subject into its component parts, analyze and interpret them, and then draw conclusions based on the evidence presented. In an analytical essay, the writer typically begins by introducing the topic or text that will be analyzed, and then provides a thesis statement that presents their argument or analysis. The body of the essay then presents evidence and analysis to support the thesis, while also addressing potential counterarguments or alternative interpretations. Overall, the goal of an analytical essay is to provide a nuanced and well-supported analysis of a text or idea.

Difference Between an Analytical Essay and a Critical Essay

An analytical essay and a critical essay are both types of academic writing that involve the evaluation of a text or an idea, but they differ in their focus and approach.

An analytical essay typically focuses on the analysis and interpretation of a text or an idea, while a critical essay goes further by also evaluating and critiquing it. In an analytical essay, the writer breaks down the subject into its component parts and examines them in detail, using evidence from the text or other sources to support their analysis. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject, often with an emphasis on the meaning and significance of its individual parts.

In contrast, a critical essay is more evaluative and judgmental in nature. The writer not only analyzes the subject but also assesses its strengths and weaknesses, and provides their own opinion or judgment on its value or merit. A critical essay often goes beyond a mere analysis of the subject matter to examine the social, political, or historical context in which it was created, and how it reflects or challenges dominant beliefs and values.

In summary, while an analytical essay aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of a text or an idea, a critical essay takes a more evaluative and judgmental approach, assessing the subject's strengths and weaknesses and providing an opinion or critique of its value or significance.

Types of Analytical Essay

There are several types of analytical essays that one can write, each with its own unique focus and approach. Here are some common types:

Literary analysis essay: This type of analytical essay focuses on the analysis of a literary work, such as a novel, poem, or play. The essay typically explores themes, characters, symbols, and literary devices used by the author to convey meaning and messages.

Rhetorical analysis essay: This type of analytical essay focuses on the analysis of non-fictional texts, such as speeches, advertisements, or political documents. The essay examines how the author uses rhetorical strategies, such as ethos, pathos, and logos, to persuade or influence the audience.

Process analysis essay: This type of analytical essay focuses on the analysis of a process or series of steps, such as how to make a cake, how to write a resume, or how to perform a scientific experiment. The essay typically breaks down the process into its component parts and analyzes each step in detail.

Comparative analysis essay: This type of analytical essay focuses on the comparison of two or more texts, ideas, or concepts. The essay typically explores similarities and differences between the subjects and analyzes their significance.

Historical analysis essay: This type of analytical essay focuses on the analysis of a historical event, period, or figure. The essay typically examines the causes, consequences, and significance of the subject, and may also explore its impact on the present day.

Overall, the type of analytical essay one chooses to write will depend on the subject matter, the purpose of the essay, and the audience.

Examples of Analytical Essay in Literature

"Symbolism in 'The Great Gatsby'" by F. Scott Fitzgerald: This analytical essay explores the use of symbolism in Fitzgerald's novel to convey themes of wealth, power, and the American Dream. The essay analyzes the symbols of the green light, the Valley of Ashes, and the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg to show how they contribute to the novel's meaning.

"The Power of Language in '1984'" by George Orwell: This analytical essay examines the role of language in Orwell's dystopian novel to show how it is used as a tool of oppression and control. The essay analyzes the Party's use of Newspeak to limit thought and expression, and explores how the protagonist Winston Smith's attempts to resist this control through language.

"The Portrayal of Women in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'" by William Shakespeare: This analytical essay explores the portrayal of women in Shakespeare's play to show how it reflects Elizabethan society's attitudes towards women. The essay analyzes the characters of Lady Macbeth and the three witches to show how they challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

"The Use of Imagery in 'The Road Not Taken'" by Robert Frost: This analytical essay examines the use of imagery in Frost's poem to convey themes of choice, regret, and individualism. The essay analyzes the imagery of the two roads, the yellow wood, and the sigh to show how they contribute to the poem's meaning.

"The Theme of Alienation in 'The Catcher in the Rye'" by J.D. Salinger: This analytical essay explores the theme of alienation in Salinger's novel to show how it reflects the disillusionment and anxiety of post-World War II America. The essay analyzes the character of Holden Caulfield and his interactions with others to show how his feelings of isolation and disconnection contribute to the novel's meaning.