Tolstoy's The Death of Ivan Illich

Critical Thinking Skill: Analysis and Synthesis

Analysis of a plot:

     Conflict

     Crisis

     Resolution

Analysis of a character:

     Round or flat

     Static or dynamic

     Believable or unbelievable

Analysis of setting:

     Time

     Place

     Socio-economic class

Analysis of theme:

     What is the general subject of the work?

     Can you determine the author’s position on the subject?

     Are there any other subjects explored in the work?

     Can you determine the author’s position on them?

Analysis of language:

     Figurative language—simile, metaphor, personification

         Diction

         Tone

         Voice

Analysis of symbols and allusions

     Are there any symbols?

     What types? i.e. natural, social, religious, etc.

    Are there any allusions

    What types?