Compare+Contrast


 * ENGL 9: COMPARE/CONTRAST ESSAY #1~** **//Romeo and Juliet//**
 * Length: 500-700 words, using manuscript form**

**Points:** 50

 * //Final Due: Friday 2/26 (1st Draft written in class)//**

//For this essay, you are to choose **one**// //of the following character sets on which to focus://

The Nurse and the Friar Benvolio and Tybalt The Nurse and Lady Capulet Benvolio and Mercutio Romeo and Benvolio Juliet and Lord Capulet

**Compare and contrast** the two characters’ **actions and/or attitudes** in the play. Through the analysis of those similarities and differences, you must arrive at a **clear thesis which begins with the subordinate conjunction, “although.”** For example:

//Although Daffy Duck and Road Runner both provoke laughter with their silly antics, Road Runner’s exploits have a much more serious message.//

Notice that the first clause – “Although Daffy Duck and Road Runner both provoke laughter with their silly antics” – will concentrate on the **similarities** between the two cartoon characters. It will emphasize “silly antics” which “provoke laughter” and use examples from the cartoons as support. The second clause – “Road Runner’s exploits have a much more serious message” – focuses on the **major difference**, a serious message in RR’s cartoons, and will support that by contrasting the two characters’ cartoons.

You, of course, could decide to put the one difference in the first clause and the more important, major, similarity in the second clause. The key to success is this: **Your second (independent) clause MUST contain the __most important__ point, whether it is the characters’ similarity or their difference**. **The first (dependent) clause must contain the least important point. In addition, there must be a connection between the ideas in the two clauses.**

In the body of your paper, include between **two and four** paragraphs to support your thesis statement. You are required to include at least **four** text references from //Romeo and Juliet// as support, correctly cited and blended effectively. If you had difficulty with this requirement the first time, ask for extra help! I will gladly review with you.

Consider this essay a challenge as you work to refine your analysis skills and add a new organizational element to your writing. Sample Compare and Contrast Essay