2.  What is “ignorance”? Does everyone desire to “know”? Why? After knowledge, is it possible to return to ignorance?  What is “bliss”? Is it the same as pleasure? Happiness? Fulfillment?  What is “freedom”? Are the “chains” physical, psychological, spiritual? Who are the “puppeteers”?  What is “truth”? How do we know truth? Our senses? Our reason? Is the truth the same for everyone? Does knowing the truth lead to wisdom? If you know the truth, do you have an obligation to share it? To lead?

3.  Define your terms (see questions above).  Avoid circular logic. For example, “Ignorance is bliss because it makes you happy” doesn’t say anything.  Does your brain hurt? Good! But if you’re stuck, go back to the basics: What are your three reasons why ignorance is bliss or the truth sets you free?  Your three reasons should be “universal truths” – they should not refer to the texts. Refer to the texts as evidence to support your reasons.

4.  Remember TLQ (transition, lead-in, quote) – provide context for your quotes  Keep tense consistent  Underline The Matrix and Oedipus Rex (OR italicize them – The Matrix and Oedipus Rex)  Quotation marks around “Allegory of the Cave”  Avoid plot summary. Focus on analysis – how and why your evidence (specific words in your quote) prove your topic sentences.

5.  Introduces the complexity of the question  Introduces the 3 main texts + authors  Position is clear – Central Idea  Thesis organizes the divisions of the essay (2- 3 reasons + the refuting paragraph). It can be more than one sentence

6.  Reasons why your position is valid  TS does not mention specific text.

7.  Three (at least) Body paragraphs:  2-3 body paragraphs = reasons why your position is the MOST valid  1 body paragraph – refutes the strongest argument AGAINST your position

8.  Logical and balanced use of documents (3 main sources: “Allegory” Matrix Oedipus  All three texts must be present in your body paragraphs … but not all have to be in each paragraph.  Balance between sources – try to use equally to support your central idea/position  Be sure to cite quotes correctly

9.  How does your evidence (quotes) specifically prove your topic sentence  Focus on the specific words in the quote in your analysis (why did the author use them? How do they prove your topic sentence)  Do not paraphrase or restate your quote … not analysis  Do not summarize the plot…not analysis  Analysis explains the complexities or nuances of your evidence/argument  Consider and include relevant outside sources/knowledge to the argument

10.  Restates the Central Idea not the Thesis Statement  Consider the following:  Significance of the question beyond the texts.  Relevance to today?  Reveal about human nature?

11.  Correct citation of quotes: “blah, blah, blah” (The Matrix). “blah, blah, blah” (Plato.247). “blah, blah, blah” (Oedipus.2.32).  The Wachowski Brothers: the directors of The Matrix  Plagiarism = 0/100 (You’ll be turning it in to turnitin.com)