KIS Summary:
- Comparative essays require you to identify and analyse similarities and differences between two different texts.
- Step-by-step guide on how to go about identifying writing points.
- Provides a comprehensive structure for you to refer to.
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Comparative writing is mostly relevant for English subjects, especially at the ATAR level. Comparatives vary between states – in VCE, the Comparative SAC asks a question specific to the texts studied; in WACE English, however, comparatives are simply a type of question offered under "Responding" and are broadly applicable across texts.
Nevertheless, the general premise of the Comparative Essay is universal, and this article is for all English students; no matter the year level or state syllabus.
Table of Contents:
- What is a Comparative Essay?
- How to Write your Comparative Essay?
- How should you Structure your Comparative Essay?
- Final Tips
- FAQs
What is a Comparative Essay?
A comparative is just like any other analytical literary essay, but with a catch – instead of analysing just one text, you have to compare two different texts.
You will need to craft an argument which addresses what makes the two texts similar, and what is different. You will need to read the essay question carefully and work out what the two texts have in common, and for which concept you should argue there is a difference.
Let’s look at some examples:
Q. Compare how two texts of different genres endorse a similar perspective.
Similar: Perspective
Different: Genre/generic conventions used
Example thesis: Texts A and B both endorse a pacifist, anti-war perspective, however, Text A achieves this through lighting and sound effects, whereas Text B employs poetic structure and rhyme scheme.
Q. Analyse how two texts employ characterisation to encourage different reader responses.
Similar: Characterisation
Different: Reader Response
Example thesis: Text A employs vivid characterisation of its protagonist to evoke readers’ empathy and affection, whereas Text B’s intense characterisation encourages a response of tension and discomfort.
Q. Compare the representation of the ‘ideal man’ in Text A and Text B
Similar: Ideal Man
Different: Representation
Example Thesis: Whilst both texts provide vivid constructions of the ‘ideal man’, Text A’s representation is an adaptable intellectual, whereas Text B represents the ideal man as stubborn and brawny.
Q. Discuss how two texts’ differing contexts of production affect their perspective on an issue.
Similar: Issue
Different: Perspective, context
Example thesis: Text A (1950), influenced by a restrictively patriarchal climate, presents a dismissive perspective that violence towards women is peripheral and harmless, whereas Text B (2018), created during the #MeToo movement, suggests that it is urgent and devastating.
For some comparatives, it might also make sense for your thesis to include the extent to which the texts are similar/different. Need some help? A private tutor from KIS Academics can help!
How to Write your Comparative Essay?
1. Understand your texts and why they work together
There’s no point comparing apples and oranges! It’s important to know why your texts complement each other for a comparative essay. What do they have in common?
2. Deconstruct the question
Try colour-coding key terms – for example, command words, similarities and differences. E.g. Compare how two texts employ conventions of the same genre, to explore different ideas.
3. Write your thesis/contention
This should answer every aspect of the question. If you’ve colour-coded your question, make sure each colour is addressed.
4. Gather evidence
It’s to find relevant evidence and quotes to back up your argument! This should be a rough 50/50 split between each text.
5. Have a list of comparative language handy
Your reader/marker shouldn’t become confused about which text you’re talking about. Here’s some great comparative language for clarity and flow:
SIMILARITIES:
- Similarly
- Likewise
- In a similar vein/fashion/manner/way
- In parallel
- Additionally
- Equally
- Both
- Comparably
- Correspondingly
- Also, as well, too
- Just as
DIFFERENCES:
- Conversely
- Contrarily
- In contrast
- As opposed to
- Otherwise
- However
- Alternatively
- Instead
- Yet, but
- On the other hand
- Whereas
- Differently
- Unlike
- Although
- Compared to
- Meanwhile
6. Organise points and paragraphing
A comparative should have an introduction and conclusion, just like any other textual analysis essay. They’re the bread holding your essay together.
Introduction:
- Hook or global statement
- Introduce your texts (brief synopses/plot summaries, relevant contextual information)
- Thesis / Contention / Central Argument
- Roadmap of your essay (i.e. signpost what your body paragraphs are each going to cover)
Conclusion:
- Reiterate argument
- Summarise points
- Final remarks about potential relevance of argument, significance, extent of similarity of the texts, etc.
How should you Structure your Comparative Essay?
The point-by-point method is usually regarded as more sophisticated and will award you better marks.
- This is because the comparison is better integrated into the analysis and demonstrates a more nuanced expression.
- However, the block method is suitable for earlier stages (e.g. Year 9/10 level), or the texts you are comparing do not align precisely per point.
If you want to reach for those very top marks, you can take the point-by-point method even further, alternating more frequently between evidence from Texts A and B for even more specific comparison.
Final Tips
- Maintain your 50/50 text balance
- Use specific evidence
- Use terminology from the question
- Ensure your discussion of the two texts interacts: it shouldn’t feel like two separate essays awkwardly glued together. Make the comparisons seamless.
- Consider why the texts are different and why that is significant, particularly in your conclusion.
Want more personalised tips to drastically improve your English mark? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!
Conclusion
Good luck, and happy comparative writing! For more resources, check out these KIS Academics resources:
Manoj Arachige
Manoj Arachige
FAQs
What makes for a strong conclusion?
Introduce both texts and their creators, respond directly to the essay prompt, and foreshadow your main comparative themes. Use comparative language (e.g., "similarly", "whereas") to set up your contention.
How do I write a strong Comparative essay?
- Deconstruct the prompt, plan arguments using a brief outline, and practice integrating comparative analysis into each paragraph.
- Use strong topic sentences, sharp analysis, and signpost ideas.
- Time yourself when practicing essays to improve speed under exam conditions.
How can I improve on essay writing?
- Do more practice papers, and get feedback on it. Work on improving your work based on the feedback received.
- Ensure that your essay is structured clearly, and that you are signposting your arguments.
- Sticking to the PEEL format is the simplest way to ensure you do not stray off topic.
What are common mistakes I should avoid?
- Over-summarising one text.
- Ignoring direct comparison.
- Failing to address all parts of the prompt.
- Writing a generic 'compare/contrast' essay instead of incorporating analysis.
- Lack of clear thesis or structure.
- Grammatical and spelling mistakes.
Written by Poppy Bell, who received a 99.95 ATAR and studied Arts/Law at the University of Melbourne (Chancellor’s Scholar).
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