An essay of literary analysis centers on explaining a particular piece or pieces of literature using specific aspects of the literature. The analysis connects characters, plot, and/or setting with literary techniques such as theme, symbol, motif, etc. Literary techniques are the tools an author uses to convey the abstract and symbolic meaning of the work. When writing a research paper, the best practice is to use direct quotations sparingly. When writing literary analysis, using the text and the author's actual words is essential.
Source: Kathleen Hanley
This document provides practical advice on how to write an analysis. It offers concrete examples from literature to help point out the purpose of the analysis and how to organzie your evidence.
