Here's why:
* Clarity and Context: This immediately establishes the focus of your essay and provides the reader with essential information to understand your analysis.
* Formal Structure: It adheres to the standard structure of academic writing where the introduction sets the stage for the essay's argument.
* Engagement: It engages the reader by clearly stating the work you are analyzing and piquing their interest in your interpretation.
Example:
"In William Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, *Hamlet*, the titular character's contemplation of life, death, and revenge drives the play's complex themes of mortality, justice, and the human condition."
This introduction clearly identifies the author (William Shakespeare) and the title (*Hamlet*), providing the reader with a clear understanding of the work you'll be exploring.