Writing a Critical Analysis of a

Short Story
21st Century Literature
Elements:
1. Title – explain relevance in the story
– What is its meaning in the story?
2. Setting – how is the setting created?
Consider geography, weather, time of
day, social conditions, etc.
– What role does setting play in the
story? Is it an important part of the plot
or theme?
– When was the story written?
– How does the period affect the
story?
– What qualities stand out in the
3. Characterization – Who is the main
character?
– How did the author describe
the characters? By their physical
appearance, thoughts of feelings and
interaction with other characters?
– What qualities stand out in
the main character?
– Are characters believable?
4. Plot and structure – What is the most
important event?
– Is the plot believable
5. Narrator and Point of view – Who is
6. Conflict – Describe the main conflict.
– Is the conflict interval within the
character? or is it external?
7. Climax – Is there a turning point in the
story?
– When does the climax take place?
8. Theme – How is the theme expressed?
– What is the theme of the story?
9. Style – Does the author use figurative
language?
– What images are used?

Conclusion