The Introduction Paragraph

Follow the ACT model in creating a concise and clear introductory paragraph:

      Appropriate Opener: Make sure you begin your introduction with a relatively smooth sentence that is not overly dramatic. Should have a connection with the text.

       Concepts/ Context: Make sure you introduce the concepts (the big ideas or literary topics) you will be talking about. Set up the context for the essay. Introduce the author and text you will be discussing. Name drop, title drop, and topic drop. Do not give a summary of the plot!

       Thesis: The end of your introductory paragraph should be your thesis statement which should be the general argument and purpose of your paper. Should have at least some specificity.

Common Mistakes in the Intro Paragraph:

    1)      Vomit-inducing opening sentences:

“Throughout human history people have felt sad…”

“According to Webster’s dictionary definition of madness…”

“Every individual on this planet is unique…”

    2)     Explaining too much plot and providing unnecessary details:

“The remarkable play Hamlet is a story about a Danish Prince who is immensely sad, and has a lot going on. For example he has parent issues with his mom who just married his uncle. And his dating life is problematic since he is now ignoring Ophelia, who is the daughter to Polonius, who is a really nosy old man, sort of like my neighbor Mr. Willowshanks….”

    3)     Thesis Statements that are too general or don’t make connections:

“In this soliloquy, Hamlet uses unique and interesting literary devices to enhance his complex state of mind.”

“In this soliloquy, Hamlet uses supernatural imagery and a violent tone.”

                         A Sample Intro Paragraph:

As is common with many of Shakespeare’s tragic heroes, characters in his plays often face dilemmas so demanding and emotionally draining that they crumble under the weight of these burdens and descend into a state of madness. Such is the case with Hamlet in his self-titled play as he becomes obsessed with killing King Claudius in hopes to avenge his father’s death. Immediately following his “trap” of Claudius, in which he had actor’s reenact his father’s death in front of the King, Hamlet becomes manically overcome with excitement as he now has unquestionable cause to kill the King. In his soliloquy immediately following this “trap,” Shakespeare has Hamlet use supernatural imagery and violent diction to further portray him as an unstable man on the cusp of murderous and irreversible action as he slowly loses his grip on reality.