Name:

 Ms. Tarpey

 English I

Date:

Paragraph:  Character Analysis

Please follow the steps below and write an analytical paragraph in which you discuss the three most important qualities/traits of a character from Book 1 or Book 2 of The Odyssey.  Your paragraph must include a clear topic sentence in which you make an assertion about the character; specific examples from the text; analysis and discussion of those examples; and a concluding or evaluative sentence.   Your goal is to explain what motivates or defines the character.

For example, if you were writing about “The Interlopers” you might select Georg for analysis.  Your paragraph would have to analyze his character, consider all of the information in the text, and provide insight into his actions.  You might conclude that Georg is a reformed man as a result of his time spent pinned under the tree with Ulrich, or you might conclude just the opposite, that Georg will resume the feud as soon as the danger has passed.  Whatever position you choose, you must provide evidence/quotes/facts from the text to support your assertion.   

Step 1:  Carefully review your notes and reread these books. 

 Step 2:  Select one character for analysis:

a.         Athena 

b.         Antinous 

c.         Telemachus


d.         Other character of your choice with instructor's approval


 Step 3:   List as many traits/characteristics/facts about this character (at least six):

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 Step 4:  Identify the two to four strongest points/examples and formulate an argument/thesis about the character.

 Step 5:  Write a topic sentence.  Use an action verb and use present tense.

 
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Step 6:  Write a well-developed paragraph in which you use your arguments and examples to analyze the character you selected and to prove your theory about that character.