The Raven Argumentative Essay
Instructions
Respond to Edgar Allan Poe’s, “The Raven,” by answering the following writing prompt in an argumentative essay
Prompt: For this essay, you will craft a 3-paragraph response that answers the following question: Is the Raven in Edgar Allan Poe’s, “The Raven,” real or imaginary? Use evidence from the poem and your thinking to support your answer. This essay should explore how the different elements of the poem (setting, mood, imagery, symbolism) and the speaker’s word choice all contribute to the existence or nonexistence of the poem.
Use the outline below to help you write your essay.
Outline
Paragraph 1 Introduction
Introduce the poem and the author.
Write a sentence that states your position. (i.e. The raven is real/imaginary in Edgar Allan Poe’s poem, “The Raven.”)
Write 2-3 sentences that list 3 reasons that support your position that the raven is real or imaginary.
Paragraph 2: Evidence (6-8 sentences long)
In this paragraph, you will discuss each of your reasons Use textual evidence (quotes) to support each reason you believe the raven is real or imaginary.
You should have 1-2 sentences for each reason and include textual evidence supporting your position.
Paragraph 3: Conclusion
Sum it up! Write 4-5 sentences in your conclusion that restates your position and the reasons you believe the raven is real or imaginary.
Be sure to proofread and check for grammatical and spelling errors.
