ENG4U1 Personal Persuasive Essay Analysis Unit
“Living Like Weasels” by Annie Dillard
Essay Analysis Instructions:
· Carefully read and dissect the accompanying personal persuasive essay entitled, “Living Like Weasels” by Barbara Annie Dillard. Please respond to the following SEVEN analysis questions provided below using complete sentences.
· Follow a point/proof/analysis format for each of your responses (you must include direct quotations from the essay in your answers in order to support your assertions).
The Seven Essay Analysis Test Questions:
1) What is the thesis of Dillard’s essay? Express this thesis in your own words.
2) Do you agree or disagree with Dillard’s thesis? Explain your reasoning by connecting directly
to Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle.
3) What is the tone of Dillard’s essay? Does it enhance her persuasiveness?
4) Identify and analyze THREE pro arguments that Dillard integrates in order to support her thesis.
5) Identify and analyze ONE concession argument that Dillard presents in order to explore the
alternate side of her argument. If she does not present a concession argument, what is the
effect on her essay?
6) Identify and analyze TWO internal strategies that Dillard uses in order to shape/develop her
thesis. Are these internal strategies used effectively (comment on their purpose and effect)?
7) Identify and analyze TWO rhetorical devices that Dillard uses in order to enhance her thesis.
Are these rhetorical devices used effectively (comment on their purpose and effect)?
PLEASE NOTE:
Ensure that your responses are written in proper sentence structure, and that they contain
correct spelling, grammar, style, and organization of ideas.