How to effectively structure a comparative essay?

When comparing two texts it is important to write out a rough plan, as it can often be confusing and all over the place when dealing with two texts and not planning properly!

The comparative essay will usually give you a theme to focus on. Write this in big letters at the top of the page so you don't go too off topic. Then make two columns for 'similarities' and 'differences' in how the texts deal with the subject matter.

Once you are happy with your list, you can then start to weigh which points are your strongest and use them in your essay, you should choose no more than three or four. With all your main points to hand, you can begin developing a solid line of argument, (and make sure you stick to this throughout) so if you find that, for example, use of language in both texts is a way to manipluate and control the readers views and emotions, this should be constantly referenced throughout. Don't go off topic!

To structure the essay itself, start with a short introduction, introducing the authors and texts and touch upon how you are going to deal with the point of comparison in the essay, mentioning your line of argument briefly.

The bulk of the essay should be constantly comparing both texts within each paragraph. By doing a point per paragraph this ensures that you can compare both texts in the paragraph with ease. It is very important to seamlessly connect each paragraph, so look for links between the points to smoothly transition. 

The conclusion shouldn't just repeat the whole essay, nor should it introduce a brand new idea that was previously not mentioned. It should, in essence, answer the question. It must be a clear and concise summary of your essay without repetition. 

A good piece of general advice for English Literature essays is to pick the most unique and obscure points if you are feeling confident enough! The marker will appreciate an individual way of looking at the texts you are comparing. So if you find a connection that seems outlandish, go for it! That is, if you can effectively support that point with evaluation and analysis.