4.1.1 Selection of Two Literary Texts for Comparison

• The body paragraphs of a comparative essay explore the similarities and differences
• What are examples of common themes often explored in literature?

  Love, death, power
• A comparative essay for Edexcel A-Level English Literature Component 4 requires between 2,500 and 3,000 words.


  True
• What should you look for in texts when considering common themes for comparison?

  Universal universal themes
• What are examples of universal themes that provide a basis for comparative analysis?

  Love, death, power
• Verbal, dramatic, or situational irony are types of irony
• A literary technique that uses figurative language to convey deeper meanings is called a metaphor
• Match the literary technique with its description:

  Metaphor ↔️ Figurative language

  Irony ↔️ Contradictory meaning

  Foreshadowing ↔️ Creating anticipation

  Symbolism ↔️ Investigating significance
• Power dynamics are frequently challenged in literary texts.


  True
• When comparing texts, it is important to choose works with significant points of convergence
• Comparing the use of irony or metaphor can highlight the authors' stylistic choices.
• Paraphrasing can streamline an argument but may alter the original meaning if poorly done.
• An arguable thesis presents a claim that can be supported with evidence from the texts.
• When choosing texts for comparison, it is essential to identify significant points of convergence.

  True
• Identifying significant points of convergence helps develop a coherent and sustained argument
• What is a common theme that explores the complexities and impact of relationships in literature?

  Love
• What is one common theme to explore in comparative essays, as mentioned in the text?

  Equality
• Steps to create tension using foreshadowing in literature

  1️⃣ Introduce a hint or clue

  2️⃣ Build suspense with uncertainty

  3️⃣ Create anticipation for future events
• The theme of mortality is explored in literature under the concept of death
• Match the literary technique with its purpose:

  Metaphor ↔️ Conveys deeper meaning

  Irony ↔️ Highlights contradictions

  Foreshadowing ↔️ Creates tension

  Symbolism ↔️ Investigates significance
• Analyzing how different authors approach universal themes can provide insightful comparisons.


  True
• Match the consideration with its explanation:

  Common Themes ↔️ Exploring universal concepts

  Literary Techniques ↔️ Analyzing stylistic choices

  Contextual Links ↔️ Exploring historical influences

  Contrasting Perspectives ↔️ Showcasing unique voices
• What is one advantage of using direct quotes in a comparative essay?

  Preserves author's voice
• A specific thesis statement avoids vague or overly broad claims.


  True
• What does a well-reasoned thesis statement ensure in a comparative essay?

  Coherent and insightful analysis
• Steps for writing a comparative essay

  1️⃣ Introduction: Establish basis for comparison

  2️⃣ Body paragraphs: Explore similarities and differences

  3️⃣ Conclusion: Draw together key comparative points
• Literary techniques such as irony and foreshadowing enhance the author's narrative
• Match the literary technique with its purpose:

  Metaphor ↔️ Conveys deeper meanings

  Foreshadowing ↔️ Creates tension

  Symbolism ↔️ Investigates symbolic significance
• Contrasting perspectives in literary texts can enhance a comparative essay.


  True
• Symbolism in literature involves using objects, characters, or events to convey deeper meanings.


  True
• Irony can be verbal, dramatic, or situational.


  True
• What is one universal theme often explored in literature?

  Love
• What is social justice often concerned with in literature?

  Equality
• What are two key considerations when selecting texts for comparison?

  Common themes and literary techniques
• What type of links can provide an additional basis for comparing texts?

  Contextual links
• Analyzing historical context can influence the interpretation of a text.


  True
• What is the purpose of a preliminary thesis statement in a comparative essay?

  Outlines the central argument
• Steps to develop a preliminary thesis statement

  1️⃣ Identify the relationship between the texts

  2️⃣ Form a clear, focused claim

  3️⃣ Ensure the claim is arguable