How to Write a Compare & Contrast Essay in Literature – a Guide That Covers Everything

A compare and contrast essay, sometimes called a comparative analysis essay, is an academic writing assignment that examines the similarities and differences between two or more subjects within the same category. In literature, these subjects often include literary works, characters, themes, or authors. The goal is not just to list comparisons but to develop meaningful insights based on the analysis.

While this type of writing may seem straightforward, it requires careful planning, thorough research, and critical thinking. This guide will help you navigate every step of writing a high-quality compare and contrast essay in literature.

Selecting a Topic for a Compare and Contrast Essay in Literature

1. Review Your Assignment Guidelines

Before selecting a topic, carefully read the instructions provided by your professor. Some assignments require you to compare specific literary works, while others allow you to choose your own subjects. Ensure you understand the scope and requirements before proceeding.

2. Consider Your Course Material

Your essay topic should align with the themes and literary movements covered in your course. For example, if your class focuses on 19th-century American literature, your comparison should involve texts or authors from that period.

3. Choose an Original Perspective

Avoid overly common comparisons (e.g., 1984 vs. Brave New World or Tom Sawyer vs. Huckleberry Finn). Instead, explore fresh perspectives or lesser-discussed literary elements to make your essay stand out.

4. Explore Unusual Parallels

Look beyond surface-level comparisons and seek deeper connections between literary works. For example:

• The portrayal of moral dilemmas in Crime and Punishment by Dostoevsky vs. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Wilde.
• The evolution of dystopian themes from Lord of the Flies to The Hunger Games.

5. Ensure Feasibility

Before finalizing your topic, ensure there is enough evidence to support your argument. Check academic sources and compile lists of similarities and differences to ensure a solid foundation for your paper.

Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay in Literature: Step by Step

1. Create Lists of Similarities and Differences

Start by identifying key points of comparison. Consider elements such as:

• Themes (e.g., love, identity, revenge)
• Characters (e.g., protagonists’ motivations, moral conflicts)
• Narrative Style (e.g., first-person vs. third-person perspective)
• Symbolism (e.g., use of light and darkness in different works)
• Historical Context (e.g., impact of the author’s era on their writing)

2. Formulate a Strong Thesis Statement

Your thesis should clearly state the purpose of your comparison. Examples:

• While both William Golding’s Lord of the Flies and Koushun Takami’s Battle Royale explore themes of survival and morality, they differ in their portrayal of authority and human nature.
• Homer’s Odysseus and Shakespeare’s Hamlet are both tragic heroes, yet their journeys reflect vastly different perspectives on fate and personal agency.

3. Determine Relevant Comparison Points

Not all differences and similarities are worth discussing. Focus only on those that contribute to your main argument and help readers understand your thesis better.

4. Choose an Organizational Structure

There are two main methods for structuring a compare and contrast essay:

Block Method

Each subject is discussed separately in its own section.

• Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Paragraphs 2-4: Discuss subject A in detail
• Paragraphs 5-7: Discuss subject B in detail
• Paragraph 8: Conclusion

This method works well when analyzing each subject independently before drawing connections.

Point-by-Point Method

Each paragraph focuses on a single point of comparison.

• Paragraph 1: Introduction
• Paragraph 2: Comparison of theme X in both works
• Paragraph 3: Comparison of narrative style in both works
• Paragraph 4: Comparison of character development in both works
• Paragraph 5: Conclusion

This approach helps maintain logical flow and makes direct comparisons clearer.

5. Develop an Outline

An outline helps structure your essay logically and ensures a balanced discussion. It should include:

• Introduction: Hook, background information, and thesis statement.
• Body Paragraphs: Key comparisons and contrasts with supporting evidence.
• Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of key points, and final insights.

6. Write the Essay

Follow your outline and ensure:

• Clear and coherent transitions between points.
• Direct textual evidence (quotes, citations) to support claims.
• Logical argumentation and well-structured analysis.

Proofreading and Finalizing Your Compare and Contrast Essay

1. Take a Break Before Proofreading

Step away from your essay for a few hours or a day before reviewing it. This helps identify errors and inconsistencies more effectively.

2. Check Formatting and Citation Style

Ensure that:

• Your essay follows the required formatting style (MLA, APA, etc.).
• All sources are properly cited.
• Your paper meets the word count and structure requirements.

3. Refine Clarity and Conciseness

Eliminate unnecessary repetition and ensure each sentence contributes to your argument. Avoid filler words and vague phrasing.

4. Use Grammar and Spell Checkers (But Don’t Rely on Them Completely)

Tools like Grammarly can catch grammatical mistakes, but human review is essential for maintaining logical flow and academic tone.

5. Seek Feedback

If possible, have a peer, tutor, or professor review your essay for additional insights and corrections.

Conclusion

Writing a compare and contrast essay in literature requires analytical thinking, structured organization, and thorough research. By selecting an engaging topic, following a clear essay structure, and providing strong textual evidence, you can craft a compelling essay that offers meaningful literary insights. With careful proofreading and revision, your essay will be polished and ready for submission.