Compare and Contrast Reasons
 make connections between texts or ideas
 engage in critical thinking
 go beyond mere description or summary to generate
interesting analysis
INTRO
I.
Intro: Thesis, effect on the play (1)
Select on central idea that can link the two characters in the play you are
comparing:
• How they deal with rejection
• Their reasons for love
• The way they treat their friends
• etc.
Paragraph I
I.
Focus on one character
Explain what makes that character feel like a real person. NOT just who they
love.
• Explain characteristics
• Explain interactions with other people
• Use evidence from the play
Paragraph II
I.
Focus on the OTHER character
Explain what makes that character feel like a real person IN COMPARISON
WITH THE FIRST. NOT just who they love.
• e.g. Hermia, by contrast, is used to getting exactly what she wants. So, when
her father forbids her to marry Lysander she is initially crushed. Yet, when
Lysander says, “QUOTE ABOUT RUNNING AWAY…” (MLA CITATION).
Conclusion
This is your opportunity to make a claim
to the world.
• Don’t repeat your points.
• Show how the points you made fit
together for a reason
Compare and contrast Format
ESSAY FORMAT
I.
Intro: Thesis, effect on the play (1)
II.
Lysander is distinct because… (3 w/ evidence)
III.
Lysander is similar to Demetrius in these ways
IV. Demetrius is distinct because… (3 w/ evidence)
V.
Conclusion (1)