Mastering the Essay: Definition, Structure, and Argumentation Techniques
Definition of the Essay
Prose written using didactic and interpretative approaches, addressing various topics (scientific, legal, social, etc.) from a personal and subjective standpoint.
Key Features of the Essay
- Brevity: The length of the essay depends on the importance of the subject matter; however, it is generally brief, as its primary intent is to present an opinion.
- Subjectivity: Reflects the author's focus or point of view. This often involves the use of personal pronouns, the first-person plural, and vocative language.
- Free Structure: Essays intermingle examples, quotes, and associations of ideas. However, they often utilize standard argumentative structures (deductive, inductive). Essayists also employ literary devices to embellish the text and improve the effectiveness of their message, sometimes using colloquial expressions close to their readers or to provoke curiosity.
- Variety of Topics: Essays cover theoretical and philosophical subjects, although topical issues and humanities are the most common.
- Style Interest: When the language level used is of high aesthetic quality, the essay can become a more artistic work. The use of quotations adds amenity and spontaneity to the text.
Internal Structure of the Essay
Introduction of the Theme
This usually appears at the beginning of the essay, although it may occasionally be placed at the end.
Development of the Issue
The issue is developed through the arguments presented. This can be done inductively (moving from the concrete to the general) or deductively (moving from the general to the particular).
Common Argumentative Techniques
- Arguments of Authority: Citing recognized figures or experts to support the reasoning.
- Analogical Plot (Analogy): Drawing parallels between the current reasoning and another idea or situation.
- Exemplification: Setting forth examples that help the writer explain their reasoning.
- Proverbs: Including proverbs to strengthen the argument and imply a widespread opinion about a topic.
- Recurrence Analog or "Common Sense" Appeal: Relying on the confidence that the reader will understand what is being presented based on shared knowledge or common sense.
Conclusion
The author closes the piece with a final statement or summary of their position.
The Essay's Relationship with Other Literary Genres
Essays vary in type according to the tone (humorous, serious, ironic, etc.) adopted by the author and the topic they address. The essay is closely linked to journalism and the press. Its relationship with the novel is often more difficult to define.
The essay shares features with epistolary literature, as both genres involve a dialogue with a specific recipient or reader. It also relates to formal speech and conferences, as it effectively blends expository and argumentative text styles.