Single Character Analysis

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Option #1: Single Character Analysis

Now that you have read the content from Chapters 3, 14, and 17 and
have also read two short stories focused on character development,
compose a Single Character Analysis that will serve as a single from
Chinua Achebe’s novel, Thing Fall Apart (TFA).

Your character analysis should include an introductory paragraph
where you note background information (title of work, author and
character you plan to analyze) and your thesis should include body
paragraphs to back-up your thesis. In these body paragraphs, you will
provide in-text analysis of the character of your choosing where you
formulate topic sentences tied to your thesis as you cite evidence and
then provide analysis.

When you think about quoting, or paraphrasing from another, you can
think of the process as similar to making a sandwich: note why you are
inserting the quote into your writing; and then, following the quote,
analyze why the quote works to further your thesis, or main idea. To
sandwich a quote properly you must:

  • Provide a statement introducing the quote (top slice of bread)
  • Insert your quote (something yummy from the deli)
  • Explanation of the quote (bottom slice of bread)

Use specific language from the following chapters in the body of your paper:

  • 14 (Character)
  • 17 (Style, Tone, and Language) when crafting your analysis.
  • 3 (Writing Special Kinds of Papers) – Writing a Character Analysis pgs. 51 to 54.

Be sure to address the “type” of character you are analyzing:

  • round
  • flat
  • dynamic
  • static

As you move on with your analysis note how the elements inform the development of the character you choose to analyze:

  • formal/informal diction
  • imagery
  • figures of speech

Be sure to address and analyze the following as you work to
provide a close reading and analysis of the character your are
describing:

  • How the character is motivated
  • How language and the style/tone work to provide evidence for your reading/analysis of the character.
  • How formal/informal diction, imagery, and figures of speech inform the make-up of the character

For a successful Critical Thinking Assignment:

  • Have a strong thesis statement.
  • Use specific textual support from the Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart in the body of your paper.
  • Proofread for errors in spelling, grammar, and writing mechanics. Vary sentence structure and sentence length to add interest.
  • Follow APA guidelines with regard to font style, size, margins, and spacing. For specific information, go to the CSU-Global Guide to Writing and APA.
  • Use APA when citing the text; include a reference page citation at
    the end of the paper for the short story in the anthology. See the
    tutorial in Module 1 or consult CSU-Global Guide to Writing and APA (used for this class).
  • If you have questions about citing in APA, visit the University Writing Center. Additionally
    – you can schedule a writing consultation with a CSU-GC Writing
    Consultant by following the directions on the attached document.