how do i write a thesis on an author?

Question

it has to be on oliver wendell holmes and i have no idea what im doing!! any suggestions? k thanx

Answer 1

To write a thesis on an author, like on any subject, try to pick a subject that is debatable. The thesis should set up a paper that convinces your audience of things that influenced the author's work, or works that were influenced by him, or constant themes in his novels... that kind of thing.

One specific example I can think of for Oliver Holmes is a thesis on how his poem "Old Ironsides" led to the preservation of the USS Constitution.

Answer 2

To write a thesis on an author you need to be knowledgeable on at least 3 of their texts (or at least be prepared to GET knowledgeable on them!). This way you can present a coherent argument based around common themes in their writing. You should make your point, then set about proving it by providing examples from various texts of theirs and how this illustrates your point. It would also be useful to be able to show how the author is able to move away from the point you make and explore other themes. An examiner will not only be looking to see how well you have proven your point, but also how well balanced in that point you have been. If you show your awareness of the other side of the argument, you are also showing yout ability to consider a different point of view to your own!
Good luck!

Answer 3

http://www.charleslipson.com/How-to-write-a-thesis.htm
Maybe this will help.