I need help writing an intro and conclusion for an essay. The thesis is : Socrates is depicted differently in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds in terms of the education he provides and his beliefs.

I already wrote most of the middle, and am having serious writers block with the intro and conclusion, any ideas/ help would be greatly appreciated.

Please post your thesis statement and outline or plan.

Please also post "most of the middle."

Seriously -- it's a bad idea to write an introduction before the body of the paper is finished.

http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1281469946

Here are two sites that offer great advice on how to do the intro:


http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/intro.html and http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/intros.htm

Sure! Writing an introduction and conclusion can be challenging, but I can provide you with some guidelines to help you get started. Here's a step-by-step approach for writing an engaging introduction and conclusion for your essay:

Introduction:
1. Start with a hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing statement, question, or anecdote related to Socrates, Plato, or Aristophanes. This will capture the reader's interest and make them want to continue reading.
Example: "Imagine a philosopher who sparks both admiration and controversy, whose teachings have shaped the foundations of Western philosophy. This is the enigmatic figure of Socrates, portrayed in both Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds."

2. Provide background information: Give a brief overview of Socrates, Plato, and Aristophanes to provide context for your analysis. Explain their significance in ancient Greek literature and philosophy.
Example: "Socrates, the influential philosopher of ancient Greece, has been the subject of exploration in both literary and philosophical works. Plato, a student of Socrates, dedicated several dialogues to representing his mentor's ideas, while Aristophanes, a comedic playwright, portrayed Socrates in a satirical light in his play Clouds."

3. State your thesis: Clearly present the main argument of your essay, explaining the different depictions of Socrates in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds.
Example: "In this essay, we will examine the contrasting portrayals of Socrates in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds, focusing on the type of education he provides and the beliefs he espouses. Through a comparative analysis, we will uncover the distinct perspectives presented by both Plato and Aristophanes, shedding light on the complexities of Socratic thought."

Conclusion:
1. Summarize your main points: Briefly recap the key arguments and findings from your essay, emphasizing the differences in Socrates' portrayal in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds regarding education and beliefs.
Example: "In conclusion, our examination of Socrates' depiction in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds has brought to light the stark contrasts in how he is presented. While Plato showcases Socrates as a wise educator advocating for philosophical enlightenment, Aristophanes satirizes him as a questionable figure opposing traditional education. These different portrayals shed light on Socratic thought and lead us to question the nature of education and beliefs in ancient Greece."

2. Highlight broader implications: Discuss the significance of your analysis and its relevance beyond the specific works of Plato and Aristophanes. Consider the impact of these different portrayals on our understanding of Socrates and Western philosophy as a whole.
Example: "The divergent depictions of Socrates in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds invite us to ponder the complexities of intellectual development and the power of satire. By studying these depictions, we gain insights into the cultural representation of philosophers and the wider implications for the development of Western philosophy and education."

3. End with a thought-provoking statement: Conclude your essay in a memorable and provocative way, leaving the reader with something to contemplate or reconsider.
Example: "Ultimately, the contrasting portrayals of Socrates in Plato's dialogue and Aristophanes' Clouds serve as a reminder that even the most revered figures can be subject to multiple interpretations. As we delve deeper into their writings, we must embrace the complexities and contradictions, acknowledging that the true essence of the historical and philosophical figure of Socrates may forever elude our grasp."

Remember, the introduction and conclusion should complement each other, with the introduction setting the stage for your analysis and the conclusion providing a satisfying closure to your essay. Feel free to adapt these suggestions to fit your essay's specific requirements and your personal writing style. Good luck!