An argumentative essay is a type of writing that presents a clear thesis statement or claim, and then provides evidence in the form of supporting arguments to support that claim. The goal of an argumentative essay is to convince the reader of the validity of the writer's argument by presenting evidence and reasoning that supports the argument.
The structure of an argumentative essay typically follows a specific format, which includes the following elements:
Introduction: The introduction should provide an overview of the main points of the essay, including the thesis statement. It should also provide some context or background information that helps the reader understand the topic being discussed.
Body paragraphs: The body paragraphs of an argumentative essay should present the supporting arguments for the thesis statement. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific argument and provide evidence to support it. It is important to present the evidence in a logical and organized manner, and to consider counterarguments and refutations to strengthen the overall argument.
Counterarguments: In an argumentative essay, it is important to consider and address counterarguments to the writer's position. This helps to strengthen the overall argument by showing that the writer has considered other viewpoints and has a response to them.
Conclusion: The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis statement. It should also provide a final analysis or evaluation of the argument and its supporting evidence.
Overall, the argumentative format is a way of presenting a well-supported and logical argument to persuade the reader to accept the writer's perspective on a particular topic. By following this structure and presenting strong evidence and reasoning, an argumentative essay can effectively convince the reader to adopt the writer's viewpoint.
The setting of Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use" is a rural farm in the southern United States in the late 20th century. The story is set in the present day, as the characters in the story use modern conveniences such as a car and a television.
The farm itself is described as a simple and modest place, with a dirt yard and a house that is "square as a box" with a "shaky porch". The house is described as being old and not well-maintained, with patches on the roof and a chimney that is "wobbly as a loose tooth". Despite its rough appearance, the house is a place of great importance to the main character, Mama, as it holds many memories and represents her family's history.
The surrounding landscape is also described as being rural and simple, with fields of cotton and a cow pasture. There is a sense of isolation in the setting, as the farm is described as being "off the main road" and "not easily visible". This isolation may be a metaphor for the characters' feelings of disconnection from their cultural heritage, as they live in a world that is largely influenced by white culture.
The setting of the story plays a significant role in the themes and conflicts of the story. The simple and modest farm represents Mama's values and her connection to her roots, while the city and its modern conveniences represent the outside world and the influence of white culture. The conflict between these two worlds is central to the story, as Mama struggles to reconcile her love for her daughter, Dee, with Dee's desire to distance herself from her family's history and traditions.
Overall, the setting of "Everyday Use" serves as a backdrop for the themes of family, heritage, and cultural identity that are explored in the story. It is a place of great importance to the characters and serves as a metaphor for the struggles and tensions that exist within their relationships and their sense of self.
