For Stranger in a Strange Land.
I don't know how to start the essay, the paper with the assignment on it says
1. What specific issue(s) does your text address?
2. What is the author trying to say about the issue(s)? (Thesis)
3. What character development supports your thesis?
4. What conflict(s) support your thesis?
5. What other literary elements/devices support this thesis?
I need help starting it because I'm not sure if they are talking about the actual issues in the book or what they stand for. PLEASE help. The reason I'm not asking a teacher is because its a summer reading thing.
I think your teacher is looking for the meaning of the symbols and satire in the book. I would mention the book happenings, but focus on what is meant. Now don't get too serious with your interpretation...even Heinlein said many different folks have offered to explain it to him. He says he was just writing a story.
I think I would focus on the parallel between Mike and Jesus, and what the author thinks along those lines.
My teacher wants our class to write a satire in the style of either Swift ( we can imitate either Gulliver's Travels or "A Modest Proposal) or Austen. I don't know what to do
Maybe you can start with like a question or maybe a fact on the subject that your writing! I hope this helps you because I know how hard it can e starting an essay! Trust me!
For starting an essay on "Stranger in a Strange Land," here's a suggested approach:
Introduction:
- Begin with a captivating hook to grab the reader's attention, such as a thought-provoking quote or a brief anecdote related to the book.
- Provide some background information about the book and its author, Robert A. Heinlein.
- Briefly mention the specific issues that the text addresses, without going into too much detail.
Thesis Statement:
- Clearly state your thesis, which is the main argument or point you will be making in your essay.
- In this case, your thesis could be something like: "Through the use of religious symbolism and satirical elements, Heinlein's 'Stranger in a Strange Land' explores the concept of societal norms and challenges the reader to question the nature of human spirituality and existence."
Body Paragraphs:
- Each body paragraph should focus on one aspect or element that supports your thesis.
- Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea of that paragraph.
- Support your claims with specific examples from the text, such as character development, conflicts, and other literary elements/devices mentioned in the assignment prompt.
Conclusion:
- Summarize your main points and restate your thesis, emphasizing the significance of the issues addressed in the book.
- End with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action related to the themes discussed in your essay.
Remember to always explain your ideas and provide evidence from the book to support your claims throughout your essay. Good luck!