Fulfilling a defined and organized task: to construct an argument
that considers and responds to an ample range of materials.
Pointing to consistencies and inconsistencies in the evidence
Raising the implications of these consistencies and/or inconsistencies
Evaluating different claims about the topic
Asking what is gained and what is lost by focusing on symbols, icons and events.
In a strong discussion essay, the thesis would go beyond a basic restatement of the assignment
question. You might test the similarities and differences of the aspects being
discussed. You might draw on fresh or unexpected evidence, perhaps using as a source an intriguing
reading that was only briefly touched upon in lecture.
Analyze
Start with a basic approach: looking at the beginning, middle, and end.
You need to divide the two tales into parts, elements, or features.
You might begin at a more complex level of analysis. Search and distinguish
between two kinds of sources, and others.
Consider the two tales critically to arrive at some reward for having observed how the text(s) are made
and where they came from (their sources/analogues).
Analysis involves both a set of observations about the composition or workings of your subject and a
critical approach that keeps you from noticing just anything—from excessive listing or
summarizing—and instead leads you to construct an interpretation, using textual evidence to
support your ideas.