A short story analysis essay is an in-depth analysis of a short story, examining the elements of the story, including plot, character, setting, theme, and point of view. In order to write a short story analysis essay, you will need to first read the short story carefully, paying close attention to the various elements of the story.
One example of a short story that could be analyzed in this way is "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. This story is a classic example of the use of setting, character, and theme to create a sense of unease and tension in the reader.
In "The Lottery," the setting of the small town is portrayed as a peaceful, idyllic place, but as the story progresses, the reader begins to realize that there is something deeply unsettling about the town's annual lottery. The characters in the story are ordinary people, but their behavior towards the lottery and its traditions is disturbing and unsettling.
The theme of "The Lottery" is the dangers of blindly following tradition and the consequences of mob mentality. The story shows how easily people can become caught up in the momentum of a group and how quickly they can turn against each other.
One way to analyze "The Lottery" in a short story analysis essay would be to examine the use of setting, character, and theme in the story. The peaceful setting of the small town is disrupted by the disturbing nature of the lottery, and the ordinary characters become caught up in the frenzy of the tradition. The theme of the dangers of blindly following tradition and the consequences of mob mentality is conveyed through the plot and the characters' actions.
Another approach to analyzing "The Lottery" could be to focus on the point of view of the story. "The Lottery" is told from a third-person omniscient point of view, which allows the reader to see the thoughts and feelings of all of the characters. This point of view allows the reader to see the conflicting emotions of the characters as they participate in the lottery and to understand their motivations for doing so.
In conclusion, a short story analysis essay is a thorough examination of a short story, looking at the elements of plot, character, setting, theme, and point of view in order to understand the story more fully. "The Lottery" is a classic example of a short story that can be analyzed in this way, using the techniques of setting, character, theme, and point of view to understand the deeper meaning and significance of the story.