Writing a Conclusion Paragraph for a Literary Essay

Writing a Conclusion Paragraph for a Literary Essay Name/Date/Hour:

1. “Challenging” Conclusion:

(a) makes readers think or consider action

(b) makes readers consider how the story applies to life

2. “Questioning” Conclusion:

(a) presents an idea to ponder

(b) brings ideas together and pushes for a new perspective

Example of a “Challenging” Conclusion:

O. Henry uses Della and Jim to show readers what truly is important. On Christmas day, Della and Jim both sacrificed special possessions in a need for money. Both showed unselfishness to the one they love. It is admirable to give up something special for someone else, but is it admirable to express love through gifts and possessions? Della and Jim show that unselfishness for a loved one is truly important, but maybe sacrificing possessions for gifts isn’t the best expression of that love.

Example of a “Questioning” Conclusion:

Through O. Henry’s depiction of Jim and Della’s hardships and unending love for one another, he presents the idea that the greatest gifts are unselfish acts. One could save money for months or years on end to buy something luxurious for the one he/she loves, but material items come and go. They break, become out of style and are typically replaced with the latest and greatest. An unselfish act, an act of love, will be remembered and treasured for eternity. Instead of showering a loved one with objects, wouldn’t it be more meaningful to show love and affection with a sacrificial act?

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