Top 6 Best Outlines for Writing an Argumentative Essay on Literary Works (or Excerpts) for 9th Grade

A. Key Knowledge

I. Essay Topics for Literary Works (or Excerpts)

Review the following topics and answer the questions:

Topic 1: Thoughts on the plight of women in the old society as depicted through the character Vũ Nương in *The Story of the Girl from Nam Xương* by Nguyễn Dữ.
Topic 2: Analyze the plot development in the short story *The Village* by Kim Lân.
Topic 3: Thoughts on the fate of Thúy Kiều in the excerpt from *Mã Giám Sinh Buys Kiều* by Nguyễn Du.
Topic 4: Reflect on the emotional family life during the war as shown in the short story *The Ivory Comb* by Nguyễn Quang Sáng.
Questions:
a) What argumentative issues do the topics raise about the literary works?
b) How do the words 'thoughts' and 'analyze' in the topics suggest different approaches for the essays?
Answer:
a) The above topics raise the following issues:
The plight of women in the old society through the character Vũ Nương in *The Story of the Girl from Nam Xương*.
The plot development in *The Village* by Kim Lân.
The fate of Thúy Kiều in *Mã Giám Sinh Buys Kiều*.
The emotional family life during the war in *The Ivory Comb* by Nguyễn Quang Sáng.
b) The words 'thoughts' and 'analyze' require different approaches for writing: 'thoughts' means presenting personal reflections on an issue in the work, while 'analyze' involves examining a specific aspect of the work to reveal its values.

II. How to Write an Argumentative Essay on Literary Works (or Excerpts)

Follow these steps to write an argumentative essay on a literary work (or excerpt):

Understand the topic and gather ideas
Outline the structure
Write the essay
Review and revise your essay

B. Exercises and Guidance

III. PRACTICE

Given the topic: Your thoughts on the short story *Lão Hạc* by Nam Cao. Write the Introduction and one Body paragraph.

Sample answer:
Introduction: Nam Cao is an exceptional realist writer whose works leave readers with deep emotional impressions. His stories often depict the hardships and sorrow of people's lives in society. In *Lão Hạc*, Nam Cao highlights the poverty of rural life while also showcasing the noble spirit of the people.
Body Paragraph: A part of the body paragraph:
The death of Lão Hạc has several causes. First, it stems from his pride. He didn't want to be a burden to others, so he silently prepared for his death after selling *Cậu Vàng*, leaving all his savings with the teacher to arrange for his funeral. This humble and self-respecting man refused charity, surviving solely by his own labor. As his financial and emotional struggles worsened, Lão Hạc saw death as his only escape. However, his self-sacrifice was driven by his love for his son. Even though he had 30 silver coins and a small garden, he refused to use it, preferring to suffer rather than rely on others. Lão Hạc's voluntary death, though tragic, symbolizes his high sense of dignity and moral integrity. He is the embodiment of the value that personal honor is more important than life itself.

Basic Knowledge

• An argumentative essay on a literary work (or excerpt) can discuss topics such as themes, characters, plot, or literary techniques.

• The essay should contain all the essential parts of an argumentative essay:

- Introduction: Introduce the work (according to the specific instructions of the topic) and present your initial opinion.

- Body: Present the main arguments about the content and artistic aspects of the work; provide analysis and evidence through relevant and accurate examples.

- Conclusion: Provide a final evaluation and opinion about the literary work (or excerpt).

• While developing your arguments and supporting evidence, reflect your personal understanding and viewpoint on the work.

• Ensure logical and natural transitions between sections and paragraphs of the essay.

Suggested Answers for Textbook Questions:

Argumentative Essay Topic:

Read the following topics and answer the questions:

(...pp. 64 - 65, 9th-grade Literature Textbook, Vol. 2)

Questions:

a) What issues do these topics raise about the literary works?

b) How do the words 'reflect' and 'analyze' in the essay prompt require different approaches to writing? (Hint: The analysis prompt requires a detailed breakdown of the work, while the reflection prompt asks for personal viewpoints based on themes like human rights or women's roles in society...)

Answer:

a) These topics prompt students to express their personal opinions through analyzing, reflecting, or evaluating specific plotlines, character fates, or the personalities of literary characters. These open-ended topics allow students to combine different argumentative methods such as explanation, proof, or analysis.

b) The words 'reflect' and 'analyze' require different approaches to answering the essay prompt:

- 'Analyze' asks for a detailed examination of the work followed by an objective conclusion.

- 'Reflect' requires students to provide a more personal and subjective evaluation.

Steps to Write an Argumentative Essay on a Literary Work (or Excerpt):

1. Understand the topic by writing the prompt clearly and underlining important terms and ideas to identify the main request.

Example: For Topic 3, *Thoughts on the Fate of Thúy Kiều in the Excerpt from *Mã Giám Sinh Buys Kiều* by Nguyễn Du*, determine the requirements:

a) What characters or works are mentioned in the prompt?

b) Should the essay focus on analysis or reflection?

c) Besides analysis or reflection, are there any other specific requirements?

2. Create an outline, structuring it into three parts:

a) Introduction

b) Body

c) Conclusion

In the body, refer to the provided prompts for developing your ideas.

3. Write the essay by answering and expanding upon the prompts, using methods such as explanation, proof, and argumentation. The first requirement is correct grammar, while the final goal is clarity and eloquence in writing.

4. Review your essay and correct any spelling, grammar, or word usage errors.

Practice

For the topic: *Your Thoughts on the Short Story *Lão Hạc* by Nam Cao.*

Write the Introduction and one Body Paragraph.

Answer:

1. Introduction

Along with Ngô Tất Tố and Nguyên Hồng, Nam Cao is one of the leading realist writers in Vietnam. His works are not only deeply realistic but also imbued with profound philosophical and humanistic meanings. The short story *Lão Hạc* is one such exemplary work, vividly portraying the tragic fate of a poor farmer while highlighting the hidden nobility within his character.

2. Body Paragraph

Reference for a body paragraph:

In the final part of the story, the author places the character in two contrasting perspectives: the teacher's wife and Binh Tư. Through a conversation with the wife, the teacher philosophizes about the views and judgments of society. In his exchange with Binh Tư, the teacher transitions from surprise to disappointment about Lão Hạc's situation. Nam Cao cleverly uses a misunderstanding to surprise the reader and, in an unexpected turn, reveals the truth, allowing readers to fully comprehend the character's integrity until his death.

I. Essay Topic on Literary Works (or Excerpt)

a) The topics discussed in the above questions include:

Argumentation about the plight of women in the old society through the character of Vu Nuong in the story "The Daughter of Nam Xuong" by Nguyen Du.
Argumentation about the plot development in Kim Lan's short story "The Village".
Exploring family emotional life during wartime through Nguyen Quang Sang's short story "The Ivory Comb".
b) The difference between the requirements for writing an argumentative essay and an analytical essay is as follows:

Analysis: Analyzing a work or an excerpt means providing your own assessment or viewpoint regarding its value.
Reflection: Offering your personal assessment of a work from a particular perspective or viewpoint.

II. Steps for Writing an Argumentative Essay on Literary Works (or Excerpt)

Given the essay topic: Reflect on the character of Mr. Hai in the short story "The Village" by Kim Lan.

Refer to the detailed outline in the textbook.

III. Exercise on Writing an Argumentative Essay on Literary Works (or Excerpt)

Introduction:

Nam Cao is a renowned writer in Vietnamese literature. His works are rich in profound human values, criticizing societal injustices while emphasizing the worth of human dignity, and highlighting the lives of the impoverished in society. The short story "Lao Hac" is one such work. It depicts the real and poignant fate of a destitute individual, highlighting the suffering of the peasant class in the old society and their inherent noble qualities.

Body:

Lao Hac cherished his golden dog, viewing it as a companion, child, and confidante. To him, the dog was a cherished memory left by his son, and he empathized with the dog’s plight, paralleling it with his own harsh life. Despite being destitute, he never considered selling the dog, but eventually, in his desperation, he did. This moment of anguish and self-condemnation is palpable as Lao Hac struggles to make the painful decision. His torment was not merely due to losing the dog but because of his inability to forgive himself for betraying the dog he loved so dearly. This internal conflict makes Lao Hac a tragically human figure, torn by guilt and regret.

I. Argumentative Essay Topic on Literary Works (or Excerpt)

a) Topics to argue about:

- The plight of women in the old society through the character of Vu Nuong in Nguyen Du's "The Daughter of Nam Xuong".

- The development of the plot in Kim Lan's "The Village".

- The fate of Thuy Kieu in the excerpt "Ma Giam Sinh Buys Kieu" by Nguyen Du.

- The emotional life of families during wartime in the short story "The Ivory Comb" by Nguyen Quang Sang.

b) The distinction between the words "analyze" and "reflect" in these topics:

- Analyze: To explore various aspects of a topic.

- Reflect: To provide a personal judgment or viewpoint on a work from a specific perspective or issue.

- In an essay reflecting on a work, it is essential to employ several approaches, including analysis.

II. Understanding the Steps for Writing an Argumentative Essay on Literary Works (or Excerpt)

1. Understand the topic and identify key ideas.

2. Develop an outline.

3. Write the essay.

4. Review and revise the essay.

Exercise

Part 1 (Page 68, Literature Textbook, Volume 2)

Essay Topic: "Reflect on the character of Lao Hac in Nam Cao's short story."

Write the introduction:

Nam Cao was an outstanding realist writer in the 1930s-1940s, focusing on the lives of peasants and the petty bourgeoisie in old society. His works realistically depict the conditions of individuals and society at the time. Nam Cao created many powerful characters with deep humanitarian values. Lao Hac is one such character, a kind-hearted old peasant who, after being driven to the brink of poverty, resorts to ending his own life as a means of escape.

Part I: CRITICAL ESSAY TOPICS ON A LITERARY WORK (OR EXCERPT)

Answer the questions (page 65, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 2):

a. The topics presented address the character's traits and fate in the literary work.

b.

- A "critical analysis" topic asks to break down the work and offer objective commentary.

- A "reflection" topic calls for subjective insights based on a particular thought or perspective on the work.

Part II

(page 68, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 2):

Topic: Reflect on the short story 'Lao Hac' by Nam Cao.

1. Outline:

a. Introduction: Introduce Nam Cao as the author and the short story 'Lao Hac'.

b. Body: Discuss thoughts on the character:

- Lao Hac's tragic situation: his wife passed away, his son is far away, and he is lonely and seriously ill.

- His paternal love (despite being poor, he refuses to sell his land, hoping his son will return someday).

- Lao Hac's remorse after selling his beloved dog, 'Cau Vang'.

- Lao Hac's painful death.

- The humanitarian spirit of the author.

c. Conclusion: The power of the character's portrayal and the author's success in crafting Lao Hac.

2. Write the paragraph based on the key points above. Refer to the sample paragraphs below.

a. Introduction:

Nam Cao was a prominent literary figure during the period of 1930 - 1945 in Vietnam. His stories are deeply grounded in the realism of the era and are filled with compassion for those suffering. Along with works like 'Chi Pheo', 'Trang Sang', and 'Doi Thua', 'Lao Hac' stands out as an exceptional short story. The central character, Lao Hac, is a peasant who faces much hardship and sorrow due to poverty, yet remains honest, kind, and deeply loving toward his son.

b. Body:

Lao Hac embodies a selfless and compassionate heart. His bond with the dog, 'Cau Vang', is powerfully portrayed by the author. He refers to the dog as 'Cau Vang', akin to how a rare mother would call a child born through a prayer for fertility. He takes care of it meticulously, feeding it from a bowl, just as the wealthy would. He always ensures the dog eats the same amount, if not more, than he does. Lao Hac treats it as a confidant, sharing his thoughts daily. In a dire situation, Lao Hac is forced to sell the dog, and this decision causes immense guilt and pain. He confesses the act to the teacher with great sorrow: 'he smiled like a cry, his eyes brimming with tears.' The teacher, moved by Lao Hac's suffering, wished to embrace him and cry along with him. When recalling how 'Cau Vang' was tricked and captured, Lao Hac's face twists in grief: 'His face suddenly scrunched up, and wrinkles tightened, pushing tears from his eyes.' Lao Hac's anguish is not just over the loss of his dog but because he cannot forgive himself for deceiving it. The dog’s reproachful gaze haunts him. Lao Hac must have a pure and compassionate heart to feel such regret over betraying a dog.

Or:

Lao Hac is a figure of great personal integrity. He maintains respect, even for the dog, for his son, for his neighbors, for his teacher, and for himself. When he sells the dog, he is tortured by the fact that, at his age, he has deceived a dog. He recalls the look in 'Cau Vang's' eyes, a look that seemed to scold him: 'Oh! How terrible you are! I’ve been loyal to you, and this is how you repay me?' That gaze torments him relentlessly. He rejects any help from the teacher, preparing his own burial funds and entrusting them to the teacher to avoid burdening anyone. Lao Hac lives frugally, eating only what he can scrounge, choosing to die rather than owe anyone. Perhaps his act of selling 'Cau Vang' was part of his preparation for his own death. He asks for poison to kill the dog, claiming it is for someone else—this explanation misleads the teacher and others, who misinterpret his intentions. But in reality, Lao Hac uses the poison to end his own life, to preserve his own sense of integrity. His death is both a sacrifice and a testament to his human dignity. Lao Hac chooses death over living a life where he would be dependent on his son. His passing symbolizes the deep respect he has for his own purity and integrity. Lao Hac is a man of great honor – a humble, clean-hearted farmer who would rather die with dignity than live in compromise.

I - Analytical Essay Prompt on a Literary Work (or Excerpt)

Read the following prompts and answer the questions:

Prompt 1. Reflect on the fate of women in the old society through the character Vũ Nương in the story 'The Tale of the Woman from Nam Xương' by Nguyễn Dữ.

Prompt 2. Analyze the plot development in the short story 'The Village' by Kim Lân.

Prompt 3. Share your thoughts on the fate of Thúy Kiều in the excerpt 'Mã Giám Sinh Buys Kiều' from Nguyễn Du's work.

Prompt 4. Discuss family emotional life during wartime through Nguyễn Quang Sáng's short story 'The Ivory Comb'.

Answer the following questions:

a) What issues are raised in these essay prompts about the literary works?

The essay prompts raise the following topics:

- Prompt 1: The fate of women (the theme of the work)

- Prompt 2: Plot development (the content of the work)

- Prompt 3: The fate of Thúy Kiều (the theme of the work)

- Prompt 4: Family emotional life during wartime (the theme of the work)

b) How do the terms 'reflect' and 'analyze' in the prompts require different approaches to the essay? (Tip: The analysis prompt requires a breakdown of the work followed by general observations. The reflection prompt asks for observations based on a particular ideology or perspective, such as human rights or the status of women in society... However, these are not two distinct essay types.)

The terms 'reflect' and 'analyze' require different approaches in the essay writing:

- Analysis prompt: By analyzing the work, the writer draws conclusions (moving from analysis to synthesis).

- Reflection prompt: Based on a specific ideology or perspective, the writer will offer personal commentary on the work.

- These are not two distinct essay types but only differ in nuance.

II - Steps for Writing an Analytical Essay on a Literary Work (or Excerpt)

Students should read pages 65-67 in their Literature textbook, Grade 9, Volume 2.

Remember:

- An analytical essay on a literary work (or excerpt) can discuss themes, characters, plot, or the artistic techniques of the work.

- The essay should include all the components of a typical essay:

+ Introduction: Present the work (according to the prompt's specific requirements) and offer a brief assessment.

+ Body: Present the main arguments regarding the content and artistic elements of the work, with analysis and evidence from the text.

+ Conclusion: Summarize your overall evaluation and reflections on the literary work (or excerpt).

- Throughout the essay, it’s important to express personal thoughts and feelings about the work.

- The essay should flow logically between paragraphs and sections.

III - Practice

Prompt: Reflect on the short story 'Lão Hạc' by Nam Cao. Write an introduction and a body paragraph.

- Introduction:

Nam Cao is regarded as one of the most outstanding realist writers of the 20th century in Vietnam. His works often leave readers with lingering feelings of anguish over human fates. 'Lão Hạc' is one such memorable story.

- Body Paragraph:

In the final part of 'Lão Hạc', the author presents the character from two contrasting perspectives: the wife of the teacher and Binh Tư. In his conversation with his wife, the teacher reflects philosophically on how others view and judge him. In his conversation with Binh Tư, the teacher transitions from surprise to disappointment about Lão Hạc. Nam Cao skillfully creates a surprising misunderstanding, and in the most unexpected way, he reveals the truth, leaving the readers full of admiration and sorrow for the character of Lão Hạc, who remains pure and untainted until the end of his life.