Plot Analysis Assignment Prompt
Part Two: Paper 1
Using your work from Part One of the plot analysis assignment, forward a strong argument concerning the function of plot in either Medea or Hedda Gabler in relation to Aristotelian guidelines for plot. Some ideas to consider:
- Climax—why does the climax occur where it does in the play? what ideas or themes in the play does the climax highlight?
- Hero—how does the plot of the play support a particular character as the tragic hero? what is the hero’s tragic flaw and how does that flaw factor into the various elements of plot (inciting incident, rising action, climax, etc)
While summarizing the plot may be useful at times, avoid relying too heavily on summary. Focus on analyzing the events of the play—the majority of this paper should be your thoughts and arguments regarding the plot, not a summation of the play’s events.
In order to complete this assignment, you are to develop a fully thought-out thesis statement that examines an idea that emerges from the play’s plot structure. Support your views with very specific examples from the play and your plot analysis—this means that you should quote specific lines from the text as part of your evidence. Outline your work and develop a structure that will help you formulate a convincing argument. And remember: YOU CANNOT WRITE A PAPER WITHOUT AN OUTLINE!
This paper should be 2-3 pages in length, typed, double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, with one-inch margins, paginated, and follow MLA guidelines.
I do have copies of the play’s scripts let me know if you need them.