AP English Literature: Literary Argument Essay Template with Examples

The following outlines a structured approach to crafting a literary argument essay for the AP English Literature exam, including additional explanations and examples to enhance understanding:

Introduction

• Purpose: Establish the foundation for your essay, introducing the text, author, and thesis.

Steps:

• Hook:

  • Start with a striking fact, a literary context, or a notable aspect of the time period.

  • Example: "During the Romantic era, nature became a symbol of divine inspiration, shaping the works of William Wordsworth."

• Introduce the Text and Author:

  • Clearly name the text and author, tying it to your hook.

  • Example: "One such work is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, which embodies the tension between scientific ambition and ethical boundaries."

• State the Historical Significance:

  • Highlight why the work is important within its cultural, historical, or literary context.

  • Example: "Frankenstein not only explores early 19th-century fears of unchecked technological progress but also critiques societal exclusion of the 'other.'"

• Thesis Statement:

  • Present a clear claim that explains how literary devices and style enhance the author's message.

  • Example: "In Frankenstein, Mary Shelley employs imagery, irony, and narrative framing to critique the hubris of scientific advancement and its consequences."

Body Paragraphs

• Purpose: Analyze specific elements of the text to support your thesis.

Structure (repeat for each paragraph):

1. Topic Sentence:

   • Introduce a key element of your thesis.

   • Example: "To emphasize the consequences of ambition, Shelley uses vivid imagery that reflects Victor Frankenstein’s psychological torment."

2. Relevance from the Text:

   • Include a direct quote or paraphrase that illustrates your point.

   • Example: "Victor describes his laboratory as a place of 'filthy creation,' which mirrors his moral corruption."

3. Analysis:

   • Explain why or how the evidence supports your thesis.

   • Example: "The 'filthy creation' imagery reflects Victor's internal conflict and the degradation of his ideals, illustrating the dangers of unrestrained ambition."

4. Outside Source Support:

   • Integrate scholarly criticism or historical context.

   • Example: "Critic Anne Mellor argues that Victor's downfall is rooted in his failure to take moral responsibility for his creations, highlighting Shelley's ethical critique."

5. Transition:

   • Use transitional phrases to connect paragraphs.

   • Example: "Furthermore, Shelley’s use of irony reinforces the dangers of isolation."

Key Literary Devices to Include

• Imagery:

  • Vivid descriptions to evoke emotion or illustrate themes.

  • Example: "In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald describes the 'green light' as 'minute and far away,' symbolizing unattainable dreams."

• Irony:

  • Highlight contrasts between expectations and reality.

  • Example: "In Hamlet, the titular character’s delay in avenging his father contrasts with his quickness to act in other situations, illustrating the complexity of decision-making."

• Narrative Structure:

  • Discuss shifts in perspective or framing devices.

  • Example: "The use of frame narratives in Frankenstein layers perspectives, complicating the reader's ability to assign blame."

Conclusion

• Purpose: Restate your thesis, summarize your points, and reflect on the broader significance of the text.

Steps:

1. Restate the Thesis:

   • Reaffirm the main claim in a fresh way.

   • Example: "Through her critique of Victor’s ambition and failure, Shelley underscores the moral responsibilities of creators."

2. Summarize Key Points:

   • Briefly highlight the literary elements you analyzed.

   • Example: "Shelley’s vivid imagery, ironic contrasts, and layered narratives create a cautionary tale about the perils of human hubris."

3. Discuss Influence:

   • Reflect on the work's broader cultural or literary impact.

   • Example: "Frankenstein continues to resonate in discussions about bioethics and the limits of scientific exploration."

Additional Tips

• Use Precise Terminology:

  • Avoid vague language. Instead of “Shelley uses words well,” write, “Shelley’s evocative diction highlights Victor’s moral decay.”

• Practice Analytical Depth:

  • Avoid mere summary. Focus on how elements contribute to meaning.

• Balance Evidence:

  • Provide ample textual support, but don’t overuse quotes—explain their significance.

• Time Management:

  • Spend ~5 minutes planning, 30 minutes writing, and 5 minutes reviewing.

Examples of Full Application

• Text: The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

  • Thesis: "Hawthorne uses symbolism, Puritanical setting, and irony to critique societal hypocrisy and moral rigidity."

  • Body Point: "The scarlet letter 'A,' initially a symbol of shame, transforms into one of resilience and strength, highlighting Hester’s defiance of societal norms."

• Text: Beloved by Toni Morrison

  • Thesis: "Morrison’s use of fragmented narrative, rich symbolism, and historical context conveys the lingering trauma of slavery."

  • Body Point: "The recurring image of 'rememory' represents the inescapable grip of past horrors on the present."

By following this detailed template and incorporating examples, students can confidently construct insightful and organized essays that fully address the prompts in AP English Literature.