Final answer:
Good textual evidence for a novel's themes includes direct quotes, plot events, and character development, with context and analysis to support the theme claim.
Step-by-step explanation:
Good textual evidence for a claim about a novel's themes should include quotes from the novel, descriptions of plot events, and analysis of character development. These elements serve as a foundation to support your interpretation of the theme. However, excerpts from critical reviews, while potentially insightful, do not constitute textual evidence from the novel itself. When building an argument, select evidence like direct quotes that convey theme, pivotal plot events that exemplify thematic progression, and significant instances of character development that reveal thematic elements. Remember to provide context and analysis for each piece of evidence to demonstrate how it supports the claim about the theme. Start with a basic understanding of characters and plot to form a strong foundation for deeper thematic analysis. As you critically read, consider recurring language or changes in characters to identify the theme and how it is conveyed. In this way, good textual evidence will strengthen your thesis with sound reasoning and convincing support from the novel.