๐ Understanding Analytical Commentary
Analytical commentary in ELA essays is the explanation and interpretation of textual evidence. It connects the evidence to your argument, revealing its significance and implications. Think of it as the 'so what?' of your essay โ it's where you demonstrate your critical thinking skills.
๐ A Brief History
The emphasis on analytical commentary has evolved alongside literary criticism. Early forms of literary analysis focused primarily on summarizing plot and identifying literary devices. However, modern ELA instruction stresses the importance of students developing their own interpretations and supporting them with insightful analysis. This shift reflects a broader educational goal of fostering critical thinking and independent thought.
๐ Key Principles of Strong Analytical Commentary
- ๐ Focus on Explanation: Commentary should explain how the evidence supports your claim, not just state that it does.
- ๐ Create Clear Connections: Explicitly link the evidence back to your thesis statement. Avoid making the reader guess the connection.
- ๐ก Go Beyond the Obvious: Offer insights that are not immediately apparent. Dig deeper into the nuances of the text.
- ๐ Use Specific Language: Avoid vague terms. Use precise language to articulate your analysis.
- โ๏ธ Maintain Balance: Ensure that your commentary is substantial enough to support your evidence. Aim for a ratio where commentary outweighs the quoted material.
โ๏ธ Real-World Examples
Let's examine a passage from Shakespeare's Hamlet:
Quote: "To be, or not to be, that is the question: / Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer / The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, / Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, / And by opposing end them."
Weak Commentary: This quote shows Hamlet is thinking about death.
Strong Commentary: Hamlet's contemplation of suicide in this soliloquy reveals his profound inner turmoil. The metaphor of 'slings and arrows' illustrates the painful and relentless nature of his suffering, while the phrase 'take arms against a sea of troubles' suggests a more active, albeit potentially violent, response to his problems. This internal conflict is central to understanding Hamlet's inaction and the tragic trajectory of the play.
๐งฎ Applying Analytical Commentary in Different Contexts
Analytical commentary isn't just for literary analysis. It's a valuable skill applicable across various disciplines:
| Subject |
Application |
| History |
Analyzing the causes and consequences of historical events. |
| Science |
Interpreting experimental data and drawing conclusions. |
| Mathematics |
Explaining the significance of a theorem or the steps in a proof. |
๐งช Practice Quiz
Analyze the following quote from F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and provide strong analytical commentary:
Quote: "So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past."
Consider these questions as you write your commentary:
- What is the central metaphor in this quote?
- What does this quote reveal about the characters in the novel?
- How does this quote relate to the themes of the novel?
๐ก Tips for Writing Effective Commentary
- โ๏ธ Plan Your Essay: Develop a clear thesis statement and outline your supporting arguments before you begin writing.
- ๐ฃ๏ธ Use Transition Words: Employ transition words and phrases to create a smooth flow of ideas.
- ๐ง Revise and Edit: Review your commentary carefully to ensure that it is clear, concise, and persuasive.
๐ Conclusion
Mastering analytical commentary is essential for success in ELA and beyond. By understanding the principles outlined above and practicing regularly, you can develop the critical thinking skills necessary to write compelling and insightful essays. Good luck!