Prufrock Essay Prompt
Write a minimum 2-page essay that explains how “The Lovesong of J. Alfred Prufrock” is a
modernist work of literature in theme(s), structure, and style. When discussing style, be
sure to identify symbols and allusions. Cite specific lines from the poem in each body
paragraph as support for your explanations. Use the junior textbook’s explanation of
Modernism in order to clearly explain what makes a poem “modernist.”
Introduction
__ Needs a hook - related to the idea of Modernism and the poem’s subject matter
__ Needs a Connector
__ Needs a Thesis Statement answering the prompt
___/10
Body and Paragraph Organization
__ Cover theme(s), structure, and style elements
__ Transition smoothly between paragraphs and ideas within paragraphs
___/10
Topic Sentences/Claims
__ One main point per paragraph, not more than one
__ Elaborate on each point clearly; points must be related to answering the prompt
___/20
Evidence
__ Incorporate specific lines from the poem
__ Clarify modernist literature using explanations from the textbook
__ Cite poem lines and textbook evidence with parenthetical citations
___/20
Analysis/Evaluation
__ Explain each line clearly in relation to Modernism
__ Make the analysis extensive
__ Make analysis original and creative
___/30
Conclusion
__ Revisit the ideas in the thesis; do not restate it in the same language as in the intro
__ End with a finished feel; don’t begin new information or ideas; sum up thoughts
___/10
Grammar/Spelling/Mechanics
__ Do not use contractions
__ Use present tense to describe the poem’s events
___/100
___/200