Final answer:
Highlighting common aspects between two unlikely events emphasizes the similarities, which can deepen our understanding of the subjects and reveal unexpected parallels that contribute to broader arguments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Highlighting common aspects between two unlikely events primarily emphasizes the similarities between the events. This strategy can reveal unexpected parallels that might not be obvious at first glance, contributing to a deeper understanding of the subjects in comparison. For example, when comparing an elegant restaurant to a fast-food joint, the obvious differences overshadow the similarities. Yet, focusing on the latter helps us understand how both establishments fit into the broader category of restaurants, serving food and providing dining experiences, albeit in very different ways.
Compare and contrast essays not only discuss the similarities and differences, they frequently aim to make a larger argument about how these comparisons illuminate aspects of each subject. The strategy is employed in order to analyze and assess subjects more thoroughly, often using the identified similarities or differences to make a point that pivots beyond the apparent.