It is important to read a literary text not only for content, but also for context. A text needs to be evaluated for certain literary aspects, according to the focus or assignment of the analysis. For example, a student may be asked to analyze a literary text for its elements of symbolism. In this case, a student will read through the literary text, paying close attention to potential symbols.
It is an excellent idea to read with a highlighter in hand, and pen and paper nearby, to note important elements of the text. Read the text through once, highlighting important passages and writing down initial reactions to the text. Then read the text again to evaluate specific literary elements.
Analysis of literary text generally stems from a specific assignment, defining the elements the reader is evaluating as he studies the text. Some of the general literary terms used in analysis are the overall theme or main point of the literary work, characters, plot, structure, point of view, setting, language and style. It is important to have a firm understanding of these literary terms in order to gain important insight into the text being analyzed.
As a reader focuses on certain elements of literary analysis, she will need to develop a thesis. The point of analysis is not to summarize a literary text, but rather to make larger connections within the text. A thesis is the specific point of the analysis, which needs to use detailed evidence from the text to defend the thesis. For example, an analysis of a literary text may make the point that a particular object is symbolic of the main character's broken dreams. An analysis would need to give specific evidence to support that point.
It is important to evaluate a literary text not only in terms of an assignment, but also in a larger historical or social context. Looking at a literary text in a greater context can help the reader to gain important insight and develop a stronger thesis.
It is helpful to quote directly from the literary text to make specific points in an analysis. A careful balance needs to be maintained between summary and quotations to provide support for a particular thesis.