For essays guru – humanities project – thesis and outline

 For this piece of the Humanities Project, you will submit your topic choice along with your thesis and outline as a single 1-2 page Word document. This outline will be a guide of how your paper will flow. (  Distinguish between Apollonian and Dionysian responses to the humanities. )

Study the guidelines for your thesis and outline before you write to see how you can create a quality essay for your Humanities Project. Remember, a strong thesis statement is usually an indicator of a great paper!

Sample Outline for any topic

1. Introduction
   1. Opening to capture interest
   2. Transition sentence that leads to thesis
   3. Thesis statement
2. Body
   1. First Supporting Evidence
      1. Quote / elaboration on quote
      2. Example
   2. Second Supporting Evidence
      1. Quote / elaboration on quote
      2. Example
      3. Details
   3. Third Supporting Evidence
      1. Quote / elaboration on quote
      2. Details
3. Conclusion
   1. Wrap up the essay by summarizing your thesis. Do not simply repeat your thesis statement; instead, reiterate the thesis while finalizing your thoughts on the entire topic.

Fine-Tuning Your Thesis to Build a Strong Outline

Adapted from the Pocket Wadsworth Handbook

Tentative Thesis Statement (rough, vague)

These musicians were very popular and made good music.

Final Thesis Statement (more precise)

Although both musicians/composers contributed a great deal to the music world, their journeys are vastly different. While Beethoven suffered in silence, Elton John has had to face other struggles in his personal and professional life.

Tentative Outline Based on Final Thesis Statement

1. Introduction – Begin with two quotes – one from each subject regarding their craft. Transition into the thesis statement as follows:
   Although both musicians/composers contributed a great deal to the music world, their journeys are vastly different. While Beethoven suffered in silence, Elton John has had to face other struggles in his personal and professional life.
2. First Section – with examples to support the thesis. Discusses how Beethoven and Elton John discovered music as an interest. Includes quotes from researched sources.
3. Second Section – with examples to support the thesis. Discusses how both subjects faced challenges along their journey to success. Includes quotes from researched sources.
4. Third Section – with examples to support the thesis. Discusses some of the major works of each subject and how that particular music has affected the world. Includes quotes from researched sources.
5. Conclusion – Wraps everything up by referring back to thesis and supporting examples. Clinch with a closing point and leaves final thoughts.