Boswell: On War

I  can analyze the structure of a text and how this structure contributes to the text as a whole by tracing the focus of each paragraph.

Please do both of the following on a separate piece of paper and hand in at the end of class:

1. In partners: Second Reading Questions
2. On your own: Multiple Choice

HW: Write a short essay (1 page or less) that analyzes how Bodwell deliberately structures his essay. Is this structure effective in conveying his position on war? Explain.

The Classical Model for Argument  (remember this?)

• Exordium/Introduction: the writer gains the reader’s attention
• Narratio/Background info: the writer gives the context or facts of the case
• Propositio/Proposition: the writer presents his or her thesis or main idea
• Partitio/Main headings or topics: the writer outlines what will follow (*)
• Confirmatio/Supporting arguments: the writer gives evidence to prop up thesis
• Refutatio/Counterargument: the writer anticipates and refutes any objections the opponents may raise
• Peroratio/Conclusion: the writer summarizes the chief arguments, calls for a specific response and/or makes an emotional appeal