AS 190 Fall 2017
Literature Review
Due 10/4 via email to me with "lit review" in the subject heading.
A literature review is much like a critical essay evaluating the argument of analytic/discursive works. However, its main purpose is to prepare the intellectual ground for your thesis's research and argument. While at this stage of the project you won't likely have read all the relevant scholarly literature, you should have a good sampling of the major schools of thought on your topic. The Lit Review should be @1000-2500 words.
A critical essay evaluates the argument or arguments of authors other than yourself. It is not a narrative which reconstructs the same story or position the author tells. Rather it analyzes the argument presented to decide if and in what ways it is worthwhile.
Be sure to consider the big questions the author addresses. Evaluate their arguments carefully. Some questions you can consider: Do they make sense? Are there alternate explanations which are more reasonable or likely? Does the evidence support their position? Is the argument provocative or compelling? Do they get to the heart of the issues? Do they ignore important problems or evidence? Ultimately are you convinced?
There are an infinite number of ways to approach a critical essay. It is generally easier to find fault with an author than agree with them. However, you can take a stance in support of a position. In that case you would suggest ways in which their work could be amplified or issues they had not considered which nevertheless lend weight to their overall position. Whichever approach you take, consider the argument it self.
It will be impossible in this paper to consider all aspects of the book and article. Rather concentrate on only a few particular examples. Fully taking apart a small piece is better than shallowly treating many. Nonetheless, the strongest essays will also address the big issues of the work.
Finally, a key purpose of a critical essay is to place an argument in a larger discussion.