Sample thesis and analytical paragraph
Taken from “A Worn Path” sample student essay, Robert and
Jacobd 5th
At
first, the complexity of Eudora Welty’s plot in “A Worn Path” is not clear. The
main character is Phoenix Jackson, an old, poor, and frail woman; the story seems
to be no more than a record of her walk to Natchez through the woods from her
rural home. By story’s end, however, the plot is clear: it consists of the
brave attempts of a courageous, valiant woman to carry on against overwhelming
forces. (central idea). Her determination despite the tremendous
odds against her gives the story its impact. The powers ranged against her are old age, poverty, environment, and
illness.(thesis)
Old Age as a silent but
overpowering antagonist is shown in signs of Phoenix’ increasing senility. Not her mind but her feet tell her where to find the medical
office in Natchez. Despite her inner
strength, she is unable to explain her errand when the nursing attendant asks
her. Instead, she sits dumbly and unknowingly
for a time, until “a flame of comprehension” comes across her face. Against the power of advancing age, Phoenix is slowly
losing. The implication is that she soon will lose entirely.
Topic sentence
Evidence
Commentary
