Final answer:
In high school English literature analysis, asking questions such as who the characters are, what is happening, and where and when it is occurring lays the groundwork for inferences about characters and understanding the plot and setting. Further analysis involves more specific aspects like symbolism and themes, and noting personal reactions to the text is also essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
When analyzing literature, it is vital to consider the guiding questions that help make inferences about the characters. This involves looking closely at the details provided in the text, which inform the descriptions, dialogues, and narration of the characters. To gain a comprehensive understanding, you can start by asking basic questions: Who are the characters?, What is happening?, When and where is it happening?, and How does it happen?. These fundamental questions provide insights into the characters, plot, and setting, forming the foundation for a deeper analysis that can lead to discerning the theme.
As you progress in your analysis, you may explore more intricate aspects such as symbolism and character relationships. Understanding the text and its vocabulary is crucial to making reasonable inferences. It's important to note your reactions to the text, as these can guide your interpretation and help you convey a deeper comprehension of the literature to your readers.
When studying the main elements of fiction, such as character, plot, setting, and theme, it is helpful to note how the author uses different literary devices to enhance these elements. Asking why and how characters are acting a certain way, and whether their actions relate to broader topics, will enrich your appreciation and understanding of the work.