Guidelines for Literary Analysis Assignment
Navigate to the Short Story Project link in this week’s course content in order to
access a digital archive of classic short stories. In response to one of these stories,
compose a literary analysis of 2-3 full pages. The page count excludes title pages
(APA) and bibliography pages.
Adhere to MLA or APA formatting guidelines.
While summarizing is not the focus, it is necessary to some extent. Consider the
placement of a brief summary in either the introduction or first body paragraph.
However, most of your space should be dedicated to doing the following:
Write an analysis of the story that focuses on at least one literary device (such as
character, setting, or theme).
If necessary, review the Glossary of Terms for Literary Analysis on pages 262-263 of your textbook. Explain the meaning you discern, supporting your interpretation with evidence from the story itself.
You should not use any outside sources for research; the only source you will cite is that of the story itself. Your analysis should be based upon your own interpretation of the story and understanding of the literary device you choose.
Write in the third-person point of view (avoid I, me, my, you, your). This
objectivity helps to ensure focus on the literature itself. Provide both parenthetical
and bibliographic citations.
This assignment is intended to sharpen your skills in
literary analysis and interpretation.
Evaluation
• Two to three full, double-spaced pages typed in 12-point, Times New
Roman font – 15 points
• MLA/APA arrangement and documentation – 15 points
• Clear, well-supported thesis statement – 20 points
• Well-developed introduction, body, and conclusion paragraphs free of
grammatical errors – 20 points
• Thoughtful, third-person analysis of literary device with only brief summary
– 30 points
