Question:
Avoiding plot summary, with Pride and Prejudice
The paragraph below is an excellent example of poor argumentation due to plot summary. The writer refers to several events in the novel without explaining how they fit into the main point of the paragraph. As a result, the main point of the paragraph is very weak.
The solution to this problem will explain how to take this paragraph and turn it into a strong paragraph: one that avoids merely summarizing the plot, offers an engaging topic sentence, and creates an interesting argument by close reading one or two brief passages in the text. It will use the terms 'third-person narrator' and 'free indirect discourse' to offer a nuanced reading of the passage where Darcy declines to dance with Elizabeth.
Dances often progress the plot of Pride and Prejudice. The two most important courtships begin at the Meryton assembly where Jane and Bingley dance with each other twice, and we see the first encounter between Elizabeth and Darcy. In fact, the Bennets almost did not make it to the ball because of their father; if they had not, neither of the girls would have met their future husbands and the plot would not have continued. At the ball, Bingley immediate notices Jane and thinks to himself that she is the most beautiful woman in the room. Their relationship steadily progresses from this encounter toward marriage. At the same assembly, Darcy insults Elizabeth by remarking that she is not desirable as a dancing partner. At later dance Darcy and Elizabeth will become partners, giving them an opportunity to become acquainted, but the first ball is unsuccessful for Elizabeth. Dance can either progress or forestall courtship in the novel.