How should I write an introduction for my English literature essay?

When writing an English literature essay it is always important to first introduce the book, poem or text you are writing about.Firstly, begin by setting the text in its immediate context. This means describing where the passage is found in the book or collection of poems. For example, 'The passage under study is taken from the first scene of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.' This demonstrates to the examiner that you have a good knowledge of the text you are analysing. Secondly, place the book or text in its historical context. It is important to show that you have a cultural and historical awareness of the setting of the book you are studying, as some historical events will have a bearing on the literature. For example, 'Written towards the end of the 16th Century and set in Verona, Italy, the playwright explores...' It would be appropriate to now highlight some themes that are recurring throughout the text/play, which are especially prominent in this passage. Now outline some important themes in the passage; for example 'the play explores the themes of love, lust and fate with particular emphasis on the rivalry between the Capulet and Montague family in this scene.' Finally, it can be a good idea to briefly outline the structure of your essay. This demonstrates to the examiner that you have thought about and planned a clear structure and argument for your essay, and that you are not just making it up as you go! For example, 'This essay will demonstrate how...' or 'Throughout the passage the reader sees how...' eg. 'rivalry begins at the start of the scene merely between servants yet this then spirals towards a complete brawl between the entire opposing families, so by the end of the passage, we realise how the tension permeates all ages and levels of the hierarchy between the two rivalling factions.' Ending the introduction with a suggestion for what you want your reader to ultimately learn from your essay can be a great guide to help through your essay and to understand your argument, but remember to save your full conclusion for the actual conclusion at the end!