Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
A defensible interpretation is an analysis or understanding of a literary work that is supported by evidence and logical reasoning. It is an interpretation that can be argued and defended using specific examples from the text.
Commentary is your own explanation or analysis of the evidence you present. It helps connect the dots between the evidence and your overall interpretation.
Analysis: Analysis involves breaking down a literary work into its components (such as themes, symbols, characters) and examining how they contribute to the overall meaning or effect of the work.