Learning and Tutoring Center, Summer 2011 Page 1 of 4
LITERARY ANALYSIS THESIS
A thesis in a literary analysis or literary research paper can take many forms. When given an assignment to
analyze a work of fiction, poetry, or drama, you must first determine the requirements of the assignment. Make
sure that you understand the nature of the assignment and that you follow the instructions of your professor.
Once you decide what work you will analyze, you will begin the analysis of the work and do any research
required. As you think about your topic, be sure to construct a thesis that will guide your analysis as well as
serve to focus and organize your essay. A good thesis is specific, limited in scope and offers a perspective or
interpretation on a subject. A literary thesis should be clear and focused, setting up an argument that the essay
will support with discussion and details from the work.
SAMPLE THESIS STATEMENTS
These sample thesis statements are provided as guides, not as required forms or prescriptions.
#1 The thesis may focus on an analysis of one of the elements of fiction, drama, poetry or
nonfiction as expressed in the work: character, plot, structure, idea, theme, symbol, style,
imagery, tone, etc.
Example:
In “A Worn Path,” Eudora Welty creates a fictional character in Phoenix Jackson whose
determination, faith, and cunning illustrate the indomitable human spirit.
Note that the work, author, and character to be analyzed are identified in this thesis statement. The
thesis relies on a strong verb (creates). It also identifies the element of fiction that the writer will
explore (character) and the characteristics the writer will analyze and discuss (determination, faith,
cunning).
Further Examples:
The character of the Nurse in Romeo and Juliet serves as a foil to young Juliet, delights us with her
warmth and earthy wit, and helps realize the tragic catastrophe.
The works of ecstatic love poets Rumi, Hafiz, and Kabir use symbols such as a lover’s longing and the
Tavern of Ruin to illustrate the human soul’s desire to connect with God.
Useful Information: Literature is classified in categories, or genres, which have sub-classifications
or forms of their own. Being familiar with the characteristics of the genre in which the work is
classified will provide context for your analysis of that work. In the list below, which is not
exhaustive, are common forms of literature with the genres they represent.
Fiction: myths, parables, short stories, novels (picaresque, romance, historical, gothic,
science fiction, mystery, modernist)
Poetry: sonnets, ballads, epics, limericks, elegies, free verse, odes, lyrics, tercets, villanelles
Drama: tragedies, comedies, theatre of the absurd
Nonfiction (sometimes called creative nonfiction): slave narratives, personal essays,
memoirs, biographies, travel writing