*4+ direct quotes (use the significant quotes handouts from both plays). Example:
According to Willy, “Man is not a piece of fruit* (Miller, 1.1.82).
*When citing specific details other than direct quotes, be sure to explain where this takes place.
Example: In the stage directions at the beginning of Act I, we learn that Linda not only loves Willy, she also admires him.
*Include a title for your paper that goes beyond a mere statement of topic – Example:
Oedipus and Willy Duke it Out. *DO NOT mix up plot, make spelling and/or homonym errors.
*Write an all-encompassing thesis statement as the last sentence of the introduction. Example:
Given the tragedies of Oedipus the King and Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman is clearly the superior tragic figure because the reader is much more able to relate to him.
III. The Essay:
A. Introduction & Thesis: Provide a very brief overview of each play (no more than 5 or 6 sentences total). Be sure to mention the titles and authors of the two plays (note that the titles of the plays should be italicized). End your introduction with a clear thesis in which you state which character is the superior tragic figure and, in general, why.
B. Body Sections:
1. Body Topic #1: Compare/Contrast Aristotle’s and Miller’s theories of
tragedy, being sure to mention that Sophocles’ Oedipus the King and Miller’s Death of a Salesman are considered paradigms (perfect examples) of their respected theories. Finally, which approach to tragedy do you think most valid? Why?
2. Body Topic #2 & #3 – The Tragic Hero:
Body Topic #2: Examine Oedipus or Willy in terms of his being a tragic hero, but
in this paragraph only focus on the character you believe is the lesser of the two in terms of being a tragic hero. Be sure to explain why using specifics from the play as support (specific events and/or quotes from the significant quotes sheets).
Body Topic #3: Write this paragraph about the character you believe is superior to
the other in terms of being a tragic hero. Be sure to explain why using specifics from the play as support (specific events and/or quotes from the significant quotes sheets).
C. Conclusion: Here, you restate your thesis (but reword it) and make concluding remarks that reemphasize your main points)