Final answer:
In a compare and contrast essay, decide between using an evaluative or explanatory thesis to discuss texts. The goal is to explore deeper meanings and connections between works, not just list similarities and differences. Effective essays analyze how one text illuminates the other, revealing new insights.
Step-by-step explanation:
When crafting a compare and contrast essay, you must determine whether to use an evaluative thesis or an explanatory thesis. An evaluative thesis expresses an opinion or judgment about the subjects being compared, offering a clear stance that goes beyond mere observation.
The compare and contrast essay examines two or more works, drawing connections or distinctions between them. Instead of merely listing similarities and differences, a well-structured essay uses these points to make a larger argument about the texts, revealing insights that may not be obvious at first glance.
For example, you could compare the treatment of the supernatural in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet and Macbeth. To do so effectively, it's important to go beyond surface-level analysis and explore how the comparison enhances our understanding of each text individually and both works in a broader literary context.
Finally, when writing your introductory paragraphs, it's crucial to articulate the direction your essay will take and to provide evidence supporting your thesis. This approach sets the stage for a more profound exploration of the texts within the body of your essay.