6.6 Developing literary arguments within a broader context of works

Developing Literary Arguments within a Broader Context of Works

Introduction

A solid literary argument is built upon strong evidence and insightful commentary. However, an argument is composed of various elements, including the thesis statement, line of reasoning, textual evidence, and analysis. Developing literary arguments within a broader context of works allows readers to establish meaningful interpretations and enhance their critical thinking skills. The goal is not to find a single “correct” interpretation but to present and defend a well-supported perspective.

By now, you are likely familiar with crafting a strong thesis statement. A thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work and must be defensible. To establish this defense, writers use textual evidence, logical reasoning, and commentary. A well-structured thesis statement previews the line of reasoning, offering an outline of the argument’s development.

A literary argument becomes stronger when analyzed within the broader context of works. This means comparing themes, character developments, and literary techniques across multiple texts. How does a particular literary technique in one work reflect patterns seen in another? These connections provide depth and perspective, helping readers engage in more complex discussions.

Literary Argument Components

When developing literary arguments within a broader context of works, writers must focus on the chosen evidence and the commentary that follows. This section will explore how potent writers structure their interpretations to build a defensible literary argument.

The Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement should:

• Clearly express the interpretation of a literary work.

• Be defensible with strong evidence.

• Preview the line of reasoning that will be developed.

• Connect the argument to a broader literary context.

For example, if analyzing Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, one could develop a thesis statement like:

“Both Hamlet and Oedipus Rex explore the theme of fate versus free will, but while Oedipus’ fate is inevitable, Hamlet’s downfall is largely a product of his own hesitation, revealing different perspectives on destiny in classical and Elizabethan literature.”

This thesis connects two works and establishes a clear comparative analysis.

Developing a Line of Reasoning

A line of reasoning refers to the logical flow of ideas connecting the thesis, textual evidence, and commentary. Writers should ensure that each claim relates back to the thesis statement and follows a clear progression of thought.

Questions to Consider:

1. How does this claim connect to the thesis?

2. Does the evidence support the argument effectively?

3. How does this argument compare to similar themes in other literary works?

For example, when discussing moral ambiguity in The Great Gatsby and Macbeth, one could analyze how Gatsby’s pursuit of the American Dream compares to Macbeth’s descent into tyranny.

Evidence Selection: Strengthening the Argument

Writers must carefully choose textual evidence to support their arguments. Not all evidence is equally effective. The best literary arguments rely on specific, well-analyzed textual examples.

Key Considerations When Selecting Evidence:

• Relevance – Does this evidence directly support the claim?

• Significance – Does it offer a unique insight?

• Comparison – How does this evidence relate to broader literary themes?

• Effectiveness – Will this evidence convince the audience?

For instance, when analyzing power and corruption in Animal Farm and Lord of the Flies, strong evidence would include:

• Napoleon’s manipulation of language in Animal Farm.

• Jack’s descent into savagery in Lord of the Flies.

Each of these examples reflects a broader theme of unchecked power and supports a comparative argument.

Commentary: Connecting Evidence to the Thesis

Simply providing evidence is not enough—commentary is essential. Effective commentary explains how the evidence supports the claim and contributes to the broader literary discussion.

Strategies for Strong Commentary:

1. Explain the significance – Why does this evidence matter?

2. Connect to the thesis – How does this example reinforce the main argument?

3. Compare to broader literary themes – What patterns or contrasts emerge across different texts?

4. Address counterarguments – Are there alternative interpretations?

For example, when examining tragic heroes in Hamlet and Death of a Salesman, strong commentary might include:

• How Hamlet’s introspection and indecision contrast with Willy Loman’s blind pursuit of success.

• The ways both characters reflect flawed ideals of masculinity and fate.

The Role of Coordination and Subordination in Commentary

Commentary is structured through syntax, often using coordination and subordination to express relationships between ideas.

• Coordination (equality/balance):

  • Both Hamlet and Willy Loman struggle with existential crises, yet they approach their fates differently.

• Subordination (inequality/imbalance):

  • While Hamlet’s fate is driven by philosophical contemplation, Willy Loman’s downfall stems from societal pressures.

This syntactical arrangement enhances the depth of analysis and clarity of argumentation.

Expanding the Argument Beyond a Single Work

Developing literary arguments within a broader context of works expands critical analysis. Writers can compare and contrast literary movements, historical contexts, and thematic developments across different texts.

Effective Approaches:

• Compare works from different eras – How does Victorian literature contrast with modernist themes?

• Examine adaptations – How does a novel’s film adaptation reinforce or change its message?

• Connect to historical context – How do war novels from different periods reflect changing attitudes toward conflict?

For example, comparing romantic ideals in Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre could explore:

• How marriage is portrayed as both a social and personal decision.

• The evolution of feminist themes between Austen and Brontë’s works.

Conclusion

A well-developed literary argument combines a defensible thesis, strong evidence, a logical line of reasoning, and insightful commentary. Expanding the argument to a broader context of works enhances critical thinking and comparative analysis.

Key Takeaways:

1. A strong thesis establishes a defensible interpretation.

2. A clear line of reasoning connects claims to the main argument.

3. Carefully selected evidence strengthens the argument.

4. Insightful commentary explains how evidence reinforces the thesis.

5. Comparing multiple works broadens literary discussions and interpretations.