The Essay

• The broad term “comparative essay” can cover both comparison (focusing on the similarities between two or more things) and contrast (focusing on the differences) within one essay.
• There are two approaches to comparative essays:

1. The block method, where one item is discussed fully and then attention is turned to the second item. This method is better suited to shorter essays.
2. The point by point method, where each paragraph applies a point of comparison or contrast between two items. This method is better suited to more complex topics, as it is easier for the reader to follow.

Introduction

• The introduction of a comparative essay should inform the reader of what two things are being compared and what points of each will be used to assess the similarities and/or differences.
  • For example, in the introduction for an essay comparing the 1938 radio broadcast of The War of the Worlds with the 2005 film adaptation, the radio broadcast and the film would be the items being compared and the aspects to be compared could be medium used, audience familiarity with story and public reaction.
• The thesis should present your argument clearly and tell the reader why this comparison matters.
  • For example, a comparison between the two performances of The War of the Worlds could stress the importance of providing a proper introduction to place the performance in the correct context.

Tips

• Make sure that the two items/ideas/concepts/points of view are fit to be compared. Items should have something in common.
• Each item must relate to each point. If a point applies to one item but has limited relevance to the other, the point should be rejected.
• Use transitional words and phrases between points and paragraphs

Sample Outline

 

Block Method

1. Introduction
2. Item to be compared/contrasted A
   1. Point 1
   2. Point 2
   3. Point 3
3. Item to be compared/contrasted B
   1. Point 1
   2. Point 2
   3. Point 3
4. Conclusion

 

Point by Point Method

1. Introduction
2. Point 1
   1. Item to be compared/contrasted A*
   2. Item to be compared/contrasted B
3. Point 2
   1. Item to be compared/contrasted A
   2. Item to be compared/contrasted B
4. Point 3
   1. Item to be compared/contrasted A
   2. Item to be compared/contrasted B
5. Conclusion

* Items to be compared/contrasted A & B can be discussed in one paragraph or be separated into two paragraphs.

 

For an example of a comparison essay, see The Modern Accomplished Woman.

source: Green, Brian, and Sarah Norton. Essay Essentials. Toronto: Nelson, 2006. Print.