Write an essay of 300 words analyzing Sun Tzu’s use of text structure in The Art of War. Include an example of at least two of the following text structures: compare/contrast, problem/solution, cause/effect, and claim/counterclaim/evidence. Then, choose any other text from the unit and compare how those same structures are used in the two texts. Conclude by making an inference stating the purpose to which each type of text structure is best suited.

Question

Use specific evidence from the texts to support your analysis. Organize your essay clearly, and follow the rules of English grammar and punctuation.

Make it sound like a 9th grader wrote it.

Answer 1

In "The Art of War," Sun Tzu uses various text structures to convey his strategic ideas, notably the compare/contrast and problem/solution structures. These structures help to make his insights clearer and more applicable to the reader's military and personal endeavors.

One example of compare/contrast is found in Chapter 3, where Sun Tzu discusses the advantages of defensive versus offensive strategies. He notes, "In war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak." Here, he contrasts the two approaches by highlighting that offensive actions may sometimes lead to overextending one’s forces, while defensive tactics can stabilize and provide an advantage. This comparison helps the reader understand that different situations require different strategies, influencing decisions in complex scenarios.

The problem/solution structure also occurs in Chapter 6, where Sun Tzu identifies the problem of unpreparedness in battle. He states that "the skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible." The solution here is thorough preparation and knowing the terrain, which can fortify a weaker position. This clear delineation of problems and their solutions serves to guide leaders when making critical decisions in warfare.

Comparing this to another text from our unit, "A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift, the same structures can be seen. Swift uses the problem/solution format by presenting the dire situation of poverty in Ireland, followed by an outrageous proposal to mitigate it: selling children as food. While both texts use such structures, Swift’s approach is satirical and aimed at social critique, while Sun Tzu’s is focused on practical military advice.

In conclusion, both compare/contrast and problem/solution structures are instrumental in articulating ideas effectively. In Sun Tzu’s case, these structures help readers develop strategies for success in warfare, while in Swift’s work, they serve to provoke thought and highlight social injustices. Each type of text structure is thus suited to its purpose, guiding the reader’s understanding and response to the issues presented.