HOW TO WRITE A COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS

1.     Begin by making a list of similarities and differences between the two subjects you are asked to compare and contrast.

2.     Narrow down the list to fit the prompt and avoid writing a thesis that’s too broad.

3.     One way to start a compare and contrast thesis is by using words like whereas, while, even though, and although to suggest a contrasting element will follow.

a.     Although Nora pretends her financial situation is much better than Mrs. Linde’s, both women know what it is like to be in deep debt.

b.     Whereas Mrs. Linde did not feel grief over the loss of her husband, Nora was willing to do anything to save Torvald.

4.     Typically a thesis comparing two plays, stories or poems will compare and contrast two or more ideas. Here is a common format.

a.     While Work #1 underscores Theme A & B and Work #2 considers Theme D & C, in juxtaposing them it becomes clear that ….

5.     A thesis comparing and contrasting two characters or symbols, may work with only one idea.

a.     While Character A exhibits Trait A and Character B exhibits Trait B, comparing them side-by-side reveals that ….

PRACTICE

1.     Work with a partner to write a compare and contrast thesis for each of the following topics:

a.     Compare and contrast Nora and Torvald’s attitudes about money.

b.     Compare Nora and Krogstad. Are there any similarities between them, especially as far as their relationship to society is concerned?

HOMEWORK

            Write a thesis statement comparing and contrasting Nora’s outlook on life in Act 1 and Act 2.

            Write a thesis statement that compares and contrasts Torvald’s view of a woman’s role with the view of a woman’s role in contemporary society.