Here's a more detailed breakdown:
* Identify the key elements: This involves analyzing the plot, characters, setting, theme, style, and tone of the work.
* Explore the relationships between these elements: How do the characters interact with the plot? How does the setting influence the mood of the piece? How does the author's style contribute to the overall message?
* Analyze the author's intent: What message is the author trying to convey? What are they trying to make the reader think or feel?
* Interpret the work in context: How does the work reflect the time period in which it was written? What social, cultural, or historical factors influenced the author's choices?
* Evaluate the effectiveness of the work: How well does the work achieve its intended purpose? Is it a successful piece of literature?
Essentially, literary analysis aims to go beyond simply reading the words on the page. It involves a deeper exploration of the work's structure, meaning, and impact.