Drama Essay

Choose either Chase’s Harvey or Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles. The essay will be 2 to 3 full pages minimum (not including the Works Cited which will be on the next page). You will weigh the evidence in the text to prove an arguable theme/thesis. The best way to do this is to think about what issues or ideas the play brings up and then use the evidence from the text to prove what stance it is taking on that issue or idea.

The essay is formal and academic in both tone and format. You should not use contractions or slang. You should also avoid first person (I, me, my) and 2n person (you, your) except in direct quotation.

You may use NO RESEARCH from outside sources that analyze the play. None. You may only use the text to prove your argument. If you need to look up a symbol or research an allusion, you can do so, but no research that analyzes the text Your Works Cited page should include an entry for the text. Make sure to integrate any quotes from the text into your essay and to use the play itself to prove your point. There is a reason why I’m asking you to do this as using evidence in essays is a critical step. You’ll be using this skill later as well. You must come to a conclusion that becomes your thesis statement by weighing the . Thesis statements much be both arguable and a statement, not a question. Avoid questions in general.

Quoting plays is similar and different than quoting other literature, If one person is talking, then it’s the same, but introduce the character speaking. Ex. Elwood says, “You’re standing in his way” (Chase 123). However, if there is a dialogue, then each time a person speaks needs a new line, and it’s done as a block quote, even if there’s only two lines. Example:

Elwood: Harvey is my friend

Veta: I don’t see him. Where is he?

Elwood: Over there (Chase 123)

Yes, I made this dialogue up, but you will be using actual dialogue. This is for example purposes only. Make sure to use plot summary, paraphrase, or direct quotation to prove your major points. All major points should prove your thesis. Make sure to integrate all direct quotations with an introductory and explanatory sentence. Remember you are focusing on critical thinking and using text to prove an argument.