English 1B - Banerjee: Assignment

A character analysis involves a thorough and detailed examination of all aspects of a literary character. You should develop a careful analysis that is well supported with evidence from the text. However, a paper that comprises of long quotes strung together is not acceptable. This assignment is a research paper that tests your close-reading and interpreting skills; therefore, you should use outside secondary criticism sparingly. Be discerning; avoid summarizing. Your paper should not be a mere repetition of facts and statements which have been previously formulated by some expert in the field; it is instead your own interpretation and analysis arrived at after you have conducted an exhaustive study of available materials on the subject. An effective research paper presents a new or unique interpretation, always backed up by evidence.