Interpretation and the correct tense

Basic structure of interpretations

• Interpretations are not just descriptions or summaries of works, but attempts to interpret them.
• As a rule, a three-way division is pursued, in which the first step is an introduction in the form of naming all relevant key data, e.g. B. of the author and work as well as the summary stands.
• Of course, what is essential is the question according to which you only examine an excerpt or the entire work on the basis of a certain topic.
• The respective text statements and also issues, e.g. B. Stylistic devices are recorded in the main part, documented with footnotes and also deepened with regard to their effect.
• Finally, a conclusion should follow in the form of your own well-founded opinion, also with reference to the initial question.
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Tense in the diploma thesis - important information on the formulation

The thesis is one of the most important steps to a successful degree ...

Choose the right tense

• Basically, you should differentiate between different factors on the part of the tense: Because once there is temporal Factors to be considered in the work to be interpreted or the respective scene, which definitely take place in the past can.
• Especially with quotations it can be useful to choose a past tense, usually perfect.
• This is also recommended in general when you write about events that have already taken place whose relevance should clearly stand out from the present. In this way, a reflection with regard to the design can be clarified.
• On the other hand, however, there is the one you wrote interpretationwhich deals with the whole topic in general and in a current context. Basically, you should write in the present tense, as this is the normative basis for such work.
• The reason for this is that the corresponding work should neither be a retelling nor connotatively assessed. The present tense creates the necessary distance from the primary source and also serves to create the reference to now.