How should I structure an essay comparing two texts?

There are two main ways of doing this, and you can pick whichever you think will work for you. The first is structuring your response 'by issue': each of your sections will focus on a certain point of comparison, like narration, themes, etc - you begin with the 'issue' and explain how it is handled differently (or similarly!) by the two texts. Another way is to write about each of the texts in separate sections, instead of weaving them together in one paragraph: this is more of an A-B-A-B structure - you write about how an issue is explored in one text, follow with a comparative paragraph about the other text, and continue with this pattern throughout. If you decide to use this approach, it's important to include linking words so that your answer appears cohesive; your final paragraph should summarise the comparisons discussed.

LW

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the main themes in "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller?


Compare and contrast the American view of Paris in ‘On Paris’ by Hemingway and ‘The Sweet Life in Paris.’


‘Any claim for the novel as being politically progressive is undermined by its underlying misogyny?’ How far do you agree with this statement?


Analyse Gatsby’s attitude to Daisy in aiming to achieve his own version of the American Dream. Refer to the extract as a starting point.