Literary Analysis Final Draft Portfolio
Introduction:
Literary analysis is a critical examination of a piece of literature, exploring its themes, characters, plot, and other literary devices employed by the author. In this final draft portfolio, I will present my literary analysis on three selected works: F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," and Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird." Through these analyses, I aim to demonstrate my understanding of the literary techniques used by these authors to convey their messages and enhance the overall impact of their works.
Analysis of "The Great Gatsby":
"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic American novel that explores themes of wealth, illusion, and the American Dream. Through analyzing the characters, setting, and symbolism in the novel, I argue that Fitzgerald critiques the pursuit of material wealth and shows that it ultimately leads to the destruction of moral values.
The character of Jay Gatsby, the embodiment of the American Dream, is a prime example of this critique. Gatsby, driven by his desire for wealth and status, becomes morally corrupted in his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, the embodiment of the unattainable American Dream. Fitzgerald accentuates this corrupting effect through the use of symbols, such as Gatsby's opulent mansion, which represents the hollowness of material success.
Furthermore, the setting of the novel, the glamorous and decadent 1920s, serves as a backdrop to highlight the shallow and superficial nature of the characters' pursuits. The extravagant parties hosted by Gatsby, filled with excess and indulgence, symbolize the emptiness of the American Dream and the societal decay caused by the unrestrained pursuit of wealth.
Overall, Fitzgerald's novel is a critique of the hollowness of the American Dream and the dangers of materialistic pursuits. Through his careful use of characterization, setting, and symbolism, he highlights the moral decay that results from the relentless pursuit of wealth and material success.
Analysis of "Hamlet":
"Hamlet" by William Shakespeare is a timeless tragedy that explores themes of revenge, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature. Through analyzing the play's language, imagery, and the character of Hamlet himself, I argue that Shakespeare delves into the inner turmoil of his protagonist and reflects on the universal human experiences of grief and moral dilemmas.
One of the most striking elements of Shakespeare's play is the language he employs. The use of soliloquies, such as Hamlet's famous "To be, or not to be" speech, allows the audience to peer into Hamlet's mind and witness his internal struggles. Through these soliloquies, Shakespeare showcases Hamlet's profound grief over his father's death, his doubts about the morality of revenge, and his frustrations with the corruption in the Danish court.
Furthermore, Shakespeare's use of imagery, particularly the recurring motif of death, amplifies the overarching theme of mortality and the fragility of human existence. From the ghostly apparition of Hamlet's father to the numerous references to death and decay, Shakespeare emphasizes the transience and futility of life.
The character of Hamlet himself is a complex figure who grapples with moral dilemmas and the consequences of his actions. His indecision, procrastination, and inner conflict reflect the human struggle to reconcile our desires for justice and revenge with our moral compass.
Overall, Shakespeare's "Hamlet" offers a profound exploration of human nature, grief, and moral dilemmas. Through his use of language, imagery, and the character of Hamlet, Shakespeare invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human emotions and the universal experiences of grief and moral conflicts.
Analysis of "To Kill a Mockingbird":
"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee is a powerful novel that explores themes of racial inequality, social injustice, and the loss of innocence. Through analyzing the characters of Atticus Finch and Boo Radley, as well as the symbolism of the mockingbird, I argue that Lee addresses the moral responsibility of individuals and the importance of empathy and compassion.
Atticus Finch, the moral compass of the novel, serves as a symbol of integrity and justice. Through his defense of Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of , Atticus demonstrates his unwavering commitment to doing what is right, regardless of societal pressure and prejudice. Lee uses Atticus to challenge the deeply ingrained racism and discrimination present in Southern society.
Another significant character is Boo Radley, a recluse who is initially feared and misunderstood by the children in the novel. However, as the story progresses, Boo Radley is revealed to be a gentle and compassionate person who saves Scout and Jem from harm. The transformation of Boo Radley showcases the theme of empathy and challenges societal judgments based on appearance and rumors.
The mockingbird, a symbol of innocence, is a recurring motif throughout the novel. Tom Robinson and Boo Radley, both harmless individuals, are metaphorical mockingbirds who are targeted and harmed by the community. This symbolism emphasizes the senseless destruction caused by prejudice and the loss of innocence.
Overall, "To Kill a Mockingbird" is a poignant exploration of racial injustice and the importance of empathy and compassion. Through the characters of Atticus Finch and Boo Radley, and the symbolism of the mockingbird, Harper Lee implores readers to confront prejudice, challenge injustice, and embrace empathy and compassion.
Conclusion:
In this final draft portfolio, I have analyzed three literary works: F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," and Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird." Through these analyses, I have explored the various literary techniques used by these authors to convey their messages and enhance the overall impact of their works.
From Fitzgerald's criticism of moral decay in the pursuit of wealth, to Shakespeare's examination of human nature and moral dilemmas, and Lee's exploration of racial discrimination and the importance of empathy, these works offer profound insights into the human condition.
By analyzing these literary works, I have deepened my understanding of how authors employ characterization, setting, symbolism, language, and imagery to convey their themes and explore complex moral and social issues. These skills will undoubtedly help me in further literary analysis and continue to develop my appreciation for the power of literature.