The theoretical framework section in a thesis highlights the theoretical concepts that this study employs as lenses to study a literary work. For example, if you are applying Kropotkin's Mutual Aid to study elements of cooperation, solidarity, instinctual goodness in humans, and natural instincts of care in a literary work (be it a novel, collection of poems, or a play), then Mutual Aid would be considered your theoretical framework. You can select any theoretical framework and apply it to any literary work of your choice.
For theoretical frameworks, you can attend our course on Literary Theory and Practice.
How to Select a Theoretical Framework
Limit yourself to 2-3 concepts maximum from a framework. This will help keep your work focused and manageable. Be careful in the selection of terms to ensure they are meaningful and fit the literary work you are analyzing.
What is Included in the Theoretical Framework?
- Rationale for using the theoretical framework.
- References to its previous use, if applicable.
- Explanations with references of the selected concepts.
How to Write This Section
- Find and Download Sources: Find and download all relevant papers and books related to the theoretical concepts you have selected. Suggested sources include:
- Organize the Sources: Organize the sources in folders, categorizing them by the specific concepts they address. For example, one folder for one concept and another folder for a different topic.
- Use Zotero: Download Zotero and learn how to use it via any YouTube tutorial.
- Upload Documents to Zotero: Upload all the documents into Zotero, keeping them in the organized folders you created earlier.
- Create a Draft: Create a new document named "Draft 1" and open it alongside Zotero. Begin your search in Zotero for keywords related to your theoretical framework. For example, if you are using anarchist theory, you might search for terms like "hierarchy," "authoritarianism," "voluntary association," or "mutual aid."
- Search and Collect Relevant Excerpts: Search for the keywords in your documents. Zotero will highlight relevant references. Review the excerpts surrounding the keyword, read 4 lines before and after to understand the context, and copy-paste useful references into Draft 1, citing the exact page number, book or paper name, and author.
- Repeat the Process: Continue searching through your documents and repeating the process until you have gathered sufficient references.
- Organize and Refine Your Draft: Create a new document named "Draft 2" and place it beside Draft 1. Organize the copied lines from Draft 1 in a logical grouping, either chronologically or following a specific sequence. For guidance, check this article on 9 Methods of Ordering Information.
- Paraphrase and Write the Theoretical Framework: Create a new document named "Draft 3" and place it beside Draft 2. Paraphrase and logically connect the lines from Draft 2. Use cohesive devices and academic language to construct your theoretical framework.
- Start Writing Your Theoretical Framework: Your theoretical framework should have no subheadings. Begin by explaining why the selected theoretical constructs are appropriate for your study. Consider including the following points:
- The constructs have not been integrated with literature before.
- The work has not been analyzed under these lenses before.
- This framework opens new interdisciplinary ground for future research.
- The work fits this framework, even if it hasn't been analyzed in this context before.
Extra Tips
- Any theoretical construct from any field can be presented as literary theory.
- Aim to bring something new to the field.
- Consider how your work will be useful to future researchers and society.
- Your work should contribute to the enrichment of knowledge and consciousness.
