Introduction to Body Paragraph
A body paragraph in an essay serves as a fundamental building block. It is a focused unit in the whole argument of the essay. It usually comprises a topic sentence that presents the main idea of the paragraph, followed by supporting sentences that provide evidence, examples, and analysis to substantiate the central claim.
The body paragraph functions to develop and expand upon the thesis statement, enabling the writer/student to present a logical progression of ideas. Each body shows a clear structure, with well-organized thoughts and transitions that facilitate the flow of information.
By effectively utilizing evidence and analysis, a body paragraph strengthens the argument of the essay and contributes to its coherence and persuasiveness.
Parts of the Body Paragraph of an Essay
| Part of Body Paragraph | Explanation | Example (of a literary topic) |
| Topic Sentence | This part introduces the main idea or argument of the paragraph and starts body paragraph structure. | “The theme of love and loss is prominent in Shakespeare’s sonnets.” |
| Supporting Evidence | This part rovides specific facts, examples, or quotations. | “Sonnet 18 begins with the line ‘Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?’” |
| Explanation/Analysis | Expands upon the supporting evidence and explains the relevance. | “By comparing the beloved to a summer’s day, the speaker highlights their beauty and perfection.” |
| Body Paragraph Transitions | This element utilizes transitional words or phrases to ensure a smooth flow of ideas between sentences and paragraphs. | “In addition,” “Furthermore,” “On the other hand”, whereas” etc. |
| Counterargument/Refutation (Optional) | It acknowledges opposing viewpoints or arguments and presents a counterargument if necessary. Refutes or addresses the counterargument to strengthen the essay’s overall argument. | “Some critics argue that Shakespeare’s sonnets are merely fictional creations.” |
| “However, the deeply personal and emotional nature of the sonnets suggests otherwise.” | ||
| Connection to the Thesis Statement | It establishes a clear connection between the paragraph’s main idea and the overall thesis statement or essay’s argument | “This exploration of love and loss supports the broader theme of human experiences in Shakespeare’s works.” |
| Concluding Sentence | This last part summarizes the main points discussed in the paragraph and may provide a transition to the next paragraph | “In conclusion/Concluding it, it could be stated that/ In short/Putting it briefly, Shakespeare’s sonnets provide a profound examination of the complexities of love.” |
NOTE: You can, now, join all of these parts given in the example section to create a paragraph and see how it impacts you. Also, observe its organization and write a similar paragraph.
Steps to Write a Body Paragraph (structure) of an Essay
- Topic Sentence
- Begin with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea or argument of the paragraph and start body paragraph structure.
- Provide necessary context about the short story or poem, including its title and author.
- Analysis
- Conduct a close reading of the literary work and identify relevant themes, symbols, or literary devices to analyze.
- Provide supporting evidence from the text, such as quotes or specific examples, to support your analysis.
- Analyze the chosen elements and their significance within the context of the work.
- Interpretation
- Offer your own interpretation of the evidence and explain its deeper meaning or implications.
- Connect the analyzed elements to the overall message or purpose of the literary work.
- Integration
- Integrate your analysis and interpretation smoothly into the paragraph, ensuring a logical flow of ideas.
- Use appropriate transitional words or phrases to link sentences and paragraphs together coherently.
- Engagement with Critics (Optional)
- Consider counterarguments or alternative interpretations that may exist.
- Refute or address the counterarguments, supporting your stance and strengthening your argument.
- Connection to Thesis
- Establish a clear connection between the paragraph’s main idea and your thesis statement or essay’s overall argument.
- Explain how the paragraph contributes to the development and support of your thesis.
- Conclusion
- Summarize the main points discussed in the paragraph, emphasizing their relevance and significance.
- Provide a smooth transition to the next paragraph or section of your essay.
Remember to follow the appropriate essay structure, maintain a logical progression of ideas, and use evidence from the literary work to support your claims.
Body Paragraph Examples
Body Paragraph Example 1:
(Introduction) The novel, 1984, by George Orwell is a chilling dystopian tale that explores the dangers of totalitarianism.
(Topic sentence) One of the most prominent themes in the novel is the loss of individuality and the suppression of personal identity. (Evidence) The protagonist, Winston Smith, lives in a society where independent thought and expression are severely restricted. (Explanation) Through constant surveillance and manipulation by the ruling party, Winston is stripped of his uniqueness and forced to conform to the collective ideology of the regime. (Analysis) This theme of dehumanization is evident in the Party’s insistence on erasing personal histories and replacing them with the Party’s version of reality, effectively eradicating individual identities and controlling the thoughts of the populace. (Conclusion) Orwell’s portrayal of the loss of individuality in “1984” serves as a warning about the potential dangers of an oppressive regime and the importance of preserving individual freedom and autonomy.
Body Paragraph Example 2
(Introduction) Emily Brontë’s novel, Wuthering Heights, is a dark and brooding tale that delves into the destructive power of love and its ability to transcend time and social barriers.
(Topic sentence) The setting of the novel, the desolate and windswept moors, plays a significant role in shaping the narrative and reflecting the turbulent emotions of the characters. (Evidence) Brontë vividly describes the harsh landscape, with its wild and untamed nature mirroring the passionate and uncontrollable love that unfolds between the protagonists, Heathcliff and Catherine. (Explanation) The isolation and untamed beauty of the moors serve as a metaphor for the untamed nature of their love, which defies societal norms and wreaks havoc on their lives. (Analysis) The setting not only enhances the atmosphere of the novel but also symbolizes the wild and untamable aspects of human emotions, highlighting the destructive power of love when left unchecked. (Conclusion) Brontë’s skillful use of setting in “Wuthering Heights” adds depth to the narrative and reinforces the novel’s exploration of the tumultuous nature of love and its consequences.
Body Paragraph Example 3:
(Introduction) In Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird, the theme of social inequality is prevalent throughout the story, highlighting the injustices faced by marginalized individuals in a racially divided society.
(Topic sentence) One of the ways Lee explores this theme is through the character of Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of a crime in a deeply prejudiced community. (Evidence) Despite the lack of evidence against Tom, the racially biased jury finds him guilty, solely based on the color of his skin. (Explanation) Lee uses Tom’s unjust conviction to expose the inherent racism and inequality that permeates Maycomb County. (Analysis) By presenting Tom as a victim of the deeply ingrained prejudice in society, Lee challenges the reader to question their own biases and confront the unjust social structures that perpetuate inequality. (Conclusion) Through the character of Tom Robinson, Lee masterfully sheds light on the pervasive social inequality and racism of the time, urging readers to reflect on the importance of empathy, justice, and equality in society.
Suggested Readings
- Graff, Gerald, and Cathy Birkenstein. They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing. 4th ed., W.W. Norton & Company, 2018.
- Langan, John. College Writing Skills with Readings. 9th ed., McGraw-Hill Education, 2017.
- Ramage, John D. et al. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing. 8th ed., Pearson, 2016
- Strunk Jr., William, and E.B. White. The Elements of Style. 4th ed., Longman, 1999.
