Writing the Conclusion for a Research Paper in MLA Style
The conclusion is the last section of a research paper and offers an opportunity to restate the main findings and significance of the research. For MLA style papers, the conclusion should be well-written yet concise in wrapping up the key ideas investigated in the paper. This section provides a sample MLA research paper conclusion along with guidelines on how to effectively conclude a paper using Modern Language Association style formatting.
Sample MLA Research Paper Conclusion:
Throughout this paper, I have analyzed how William Shakespeare used figurative language and dramatic techniques to develop romantic relationships in three of his famous plays: Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Much Ado About Nothing. By examining soliloquies, dialogue, and interactions between characters, my research has revealed that Shakespeare frequently employed metaphors, puns, and irony to both advance plots and elucidate romantic sentiments between lovers.
In Romeo and Juliet, the famous balcony scene exemplifies Shakespeare’s masterful use of figurative language to portray the blossoming romance between the young lovers. Romeo declares his love for Juliet through extravagant metaphors comparing her beauty to that of a summer’s day, while the innocent wordplay between the two hints at their burgeoning affection. Their longing for each other yet inability to fully express emotions also highlights an essential dramatic technique in building romantic tension.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream features a fantastical plot with magical transformations facilitating romantic misunderstandings, yet the playwright still incorporates metaphor, particularly relating to the natural world, to convey developing relationships between characters. For instance, Bottom’s confusion after his transformation into an ass reflects the absurdity of misguided love, revealed through his animal-like musings.
In Much Ado About Nothing, strongly-worded banter laden with double entendres acts as a comic device propelling the will-they-won’t-they courtship of Beatrice and Benedick. The deceptive manipulation of these characters also exemplifies how Shakespeare artfully employed dramatic irony and surprising revelations to resolve romantic storylines.
In closing, through innovative implementation of figurative devices, creative plots, and skillful character development, William Shakespeare established himself as a seminal author who masterfully crafted compelling romantic relationships in his plays. My research sought to analyze specific examples from three of his most renowned works to better understand Shakespeare’s impact on developing various dramatic techniques that remain influential for modern storytelling. Overall, careful study of his works provides continued insight into consummate artistic ability to cultivate romance through impactful use of language and dramaturgy.
Guidelines for an Effective MLA Research Paper Conclusion:
Remind the reader of the purpose of the paper by quickly restating the research topic and focus of the analysis in one or two sentences.
Summarize the main findings and conclusions drawn from the research in two to three concise paragraphs without introducing new information or analysis. Simply review the key supporting points covered.
Briefly reiterate the significance of the topic and research without excessive restatement. Emphasize why it matters and remains relevant.
End on a strong final statement that wraps up the notion of purposeful analysis conveyed throughout without introducing novel ideas.
Avoid introducing new research or sources. Synthesize what is known from the body of the paper.
Maintain the same consistent MLA formatting as the rest of the paper, including header, spacing, font, etc. for cohesion.
Keep the conclusion concise yet sufficiently comprehensive. One well-written paragraph is usually sufficient for a shorter paper.
Proofread for errors, clarity of ideas, and logical flow from the body paragraphs. The conclusion should tie the paper together cleanly.
In summation, an effective and well-constructed conclusion is vital for leaving the audience with a solid impression of insightful findings after completing a research paper. By reviewing major analyses and re-emphasizing significance, the MLA conclusion format reinforces substance while also achieving an eloquent parting thought.