Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. Choose one of the characters who is introduced in Chapter Two and write an essay analyzing the various forms of characterization. I've chosen Curley's wife who I think represents darkness. Any ideas on what I should write in the introduction?...and when im analyzing the various forms of characterization am I going to just talk about Curley's wife and her role in the book?

Make sure you understand what "characterization" is in the first place.

http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/lit_terms/terms/Literary.Terms.html#Characterization

Now ... what do you think?

I think I'm going to be writing about curley's wife and how her personality, things that she does and say makes her represent darkness in the story?

When writing an essay analyzing the various forms of characterization in a particular work, like "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck, it is crucial to carefully craft your introduction to set the tone for your analysis. You have chosen an interesting character, Curley's wife, who you believe represents darkness in the story. Here's a suggestion for your introduction:

Introduction:
In John Steinbeck's novella "Of Mice and Men," the characters are intricately developed through various forms of characterization, offering readers a deep insight into their personalities, motivations, and the larger themes explored in the book. Curley's wife, a seemingly peripheral character, holds a significant role that extends beyond her limited appearances. Through the careful use of descriptive language, dialogue, and actions, Steinbeck effectively constructs Curley's wife as a representation of darkness amidst the desolate and harsh environment of the Great Depression. This essay will analyze the various forms of characterization employed by the author to portray Curley's wife, shedding light on the complex layers of her character and her impact on the overall narrative.

In terms of analyzing the various forms of characterization, you should focus on Curley's wife and her role in the book. Discuss how the author presents her through different means such as physical descriptions, dialogue, interactions with other characters, her dreams, actions, and narrative subtext. By examining these elements, you can draw a comprehensive picture of Curley's wife and her significance in the story. Consider exploring her motivations, her relationships with other characters, the way she is perceived by others, and how these aspects contribute to her representation of darkness.

Remember to support your analysis with specific examples and quotes from the text to strengthen your arguments and provide evidence for your claims. Additionally, consider the broader thematic implications of Curley's wife's character and how her portrayal contributes to the overall message of the novel.

Good luck with your essay!