good introduction for titanic essay

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RMS Titanic

An introduction to the greatest shipwreck drama of all time discover the key titanic facts and find out how to learn more..

The sinking of the Titanic in 1912 was a catastrophic event which has since passed into myth and legend. But what is the truth behind the myth?  Encyclopedia Titanica is here to help answer that question.

What was the Titanic?

RMS Titanic was a British registered four-funnelled ocean liner built in 1912 for the transatlantic passenger and mail service between Southampton and New York.

According to legend RMS Titanic was conceived at a dinner between Lord Pirrie of the Harland & Wolff shipyard and Joseph Bruce Ismay , Chairman of the White Star Line, at Downshire House, Lord Pirrie's London home.

Did you know? The RMS Titanic was named after the Greek Mythological creatures Titans . Read more...

With the introduction of the Lusitania and Mauretania  the Cunard Line had stolen a march on the White Star Line; with Olympic , Titanic and Britannic Bruce Ismay and Lord Pirrie saw a golden opportunity to regain the initiative and with it a hefty slice of the transatlantic passenger trade.

The new vessels would forsake speed for the increased safety and comfort that would come with a significant increase in scale. Fittings and appointments would also be improved over the competition. Lavish staterooms, a swimming pool, squash racquet court, gymnasium, stylish cafe and plush a la carte restaurant would attract the wealthy, while significantly improved accommodation in other classes was also provided. Millionaires might grab the headlines but it would be steerage (Third Class) and the growing middle class (Second Class) that would drive economic success.

When and where was the Titanic built?

RMS Titanic was designed and constructed at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast (Yard No. 401), Northern Ireland under the supervision of marine architect Alexander Carlisle and chief designer Thomas Andrews .

Having been laid down in 1909 it would take three years of construction and fitting out before RMS Titanic was ready for sea, commanded by veteran Captain Edward John Smith . After brief sea trials she departed for Southampton on 1 April 1912.

How big was the Titanic?

Lifeboats 2 Emergency Cutters 14 Standard Lifeboats 4 Engelhardt Collapsible Lifeboats See Lifeboat Specification .

Although she was the largest ship in the world, she was only fractionally greater in size than her sister ship RMS Olympic . RMS Olympic and RMS Titanic were constructed side-by-side and less than one year would elapse between their respective maiden voyages. They were practically identical in both appearance and fittings. A third sister Britannic would follow, but would enter World War One as a vast hospital ship; she would never see service as a passenger liner.

J. Bruce Ismay

Edward John Smith

Thomas Andrews

Lord Pirrie

Titanic Deckplans

Harland & Wolff

Design and Construction

How was the titanic propelled.

The Titanic was propelled by a novel arrangement of traditional steam powered reciprocating engines and a more modern steam turbine.

Engines: Two triple-expansion reciprocating steam engines One low-pressure Parsons turbine 25 double-ended and 4 single-ended Scotch-type boilers 159 coal burning furnaces Propulsion: Three propellers 5,892 tons of coal Total horsepower - 51,000 H.P. Service speed - 21 knots Top speed : 23 knots.

Learn more in the Engine Room Engines & Propulsion Systems forum

Titanic's Prime Mover

'Olympic' Class Propulsion System

Cold Starting the Titanic

Speed and revolutions.

Titanic's Central Propeller

More Engineering Articles

Engines, engine room and propulsion

When was the titanic's maiden voyage.

On 10 April 1912 the Titanic sailed from Southampton, England with 2,200 passengers and crew she was bound for New York. Titanic's Schedule took in stops at Cherbourg, France and Queenstown, Ireland.

• Keeping Track of a maiden Voyage

Encyclopedia Titanica contains a biography for every single person that travelled on the maiden voyage as well as information about the places people came from and the ships her crew served on.

Titanic Passengers and Crew

Aboard were 2208 people - all ages, creeds and colour; the wealthy, middle class and the poor. If you could walk her decks of you would hear a dozen or more languages being spoken with every imaginable dialect.

Quick Facts

• Includes 4 members of the Harland and Wolff Guarantee Group (all lost).
• Includes 8 Musicians (all lost)
• Includes 5 Postal Clerks (all lost)

More Titanic statistics

Make your own Titanic ticket Print a passenger ticket, based on a 1912 White Star Line original then print out and look up your passenger to find out all about them. Try it now...

Passenger List

What happened and why is the Titanic famous?

Four days after leaving Southampton the Titanic collided with an iceberg and sank: 1500 people died and 700 survived.  The Titanic is famous for many reasons, these include

• She was the largest ship in the world
• She sank on her maiden voyage
• Her Captain received many warnings of ice on the route but did not reduce speed.
• There were not enough lifeboats for all the people on board.
• Many crew and paying passengers lost their lives but the man that effectively owned the Titanic somehow survived.
• With millionaires as well as people in dire poverty there was a diverse mix of passengers and crew and we have been left many fascinating stories of their lives.

Titanic in modern culture

RMS Titanic forms part of our cultural landscape. Since 1912 she has been depicted in countless films and books.

Through art, drama and music her tragedy is replayed and reinterpreted and collections of her relics can be seen in museums and exhibitions across the globe.

RMS Titanic has even entered the language: the phrase re-arranging deckchairs on the Titanic exemplifies a futile exercise and the essence of her tragedy has formed the metaphorical basis of many an academic thesis.

Encyclopedia Titanica enables you to learn about how the RMS Titanic has been reflected in contemporary culture; Titanic on film and record, in photographic image and in art.

You can also learn about the true stories that inspired the movie makers including The Real Jack Dawson , the story of a real life Titanic victim who's namesake was the hero of James Cameron's 1997 epic Titanic movie.

You can also watch the rarest of all motion pictures: RMS Titanic archive film .

The Real Jack Dawson

Titanic As Metaphor

Archive Film

Archive Recordings

Titanic Sheet Music

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Movie Reviews

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Like a great iron Sphinx on the ocean floor, the Titanic faces still toward the West, interrupted forever on its only voyage. We see it in the opening shots of “Titanic,” encrusted with the silt of 85 years; a remote-controlled TV camera snakes its way inside, down corridors and through doorways, showing us staterooms built for millionaires and inherited by crustaceans.

These shots strike precisely the right note; the ship calls from its grave for its story to be told, and if the story is made of showbiz and hype, smoke and mirrors--well, so was the Titanic. She was “the largest moving work of man in all history,” a character boasts, neatly dismissing the Pyramids and the Great Wall. There is a shot of her, early in the film, sweeping majestically beneath the camera from bow to stern, nearly 900 feet long and “unsinkable,” it was claimed, until an iceberg made an irrefutable reply.

James Cameron's 194-minute, $200 million film of the tragic voyage is in the tradition of the great Hollywood epics. It is flawlessly crafted, intelligently constructed, strongly acted and spellbinding. If its story stays well within the traditional formulas for such pictures, well, you don't choose the most expensive film ever made as your opportunity to reinvent the wheel.

We know before the movie begins that certain things must happen. We must see the Titanic sail and sink, and be convinced we are looking at a real ship. There must be a human story--probably a romance--involving a few of the passengers. There must be vignettes involving some of the rest and a subplot involving the arrogance and pride of the ship's builders--and perhaps also their courage and dignity. And there must be a reenactment of the ship's terrible death throes; it took two and a half hours to sink, so that everyone aboard had time to know what was happening, and to consider their actions.

All of those elements are present in Cameron's “Titanic,” weighted and balanced like ballast, so that the film always seems in proportion. The ship was made out of models (large and small), visual effects and computer animation. You know intellectually that you're not looking at a real ocean liner--but the illusion is convincing and seamless. The special effects don't call inappropriate attention to themselves but get the job done.

The human story involves an 17-year-old woman named Rose DeWitt Bukater ( Kate Winslet ) who is sailing to what she sees as her own personal doom: She has been forced by her penniless mother to become engaged to marry a rich, supercilious snob named Cal Hockley ( Billy Zane ), and so bitterly does she hate this prospect that she tries to kill herself by jumping from the ship. She is saved by Jack Dawson ( Leonardo DiCaprio ), a brash kid from steerage, and of course they will fall in love during the brief time left to them.

The screenplay tells their story in a way that unobtrusively shows off the ship. Jack is invited to join Rose's party at dinner in the first class dining room, and later, fleeing from Cal's manservant, Lovejoy ( David Warner ), they find themselves first in the awesome engine room, with pistons as tall as churches, and then at a rousing Irish dance in the crowded steerage. (At one point Rose gives Lovejoy the finger; did young ladies do that in 1912?) Their exploration is intercut with scenes from the command deck, where the captain ( Bernard Hill ) consults with Andrews ( Victor Garber ), the ship's designer and Ismay ( Jonathan Hyde ), the White Star Line's managing director.

Ismay wants the ship to break the trans-Atlantic speed record. He is warned that icebergs may have floated into the hazardous northern crossing but is scornful of danger. The Titanic can easily break the speed record but is too massive to turn quickly at high speed; there is an agonizing sequence that almost seems to play in slow motion, as the ship strains and shudders to turn away from an iceberg in its path--and fails.

We understand exactly what is happening at that moment because of an ingenious story technique by Cameron, who frames and explains the entire voyage in a modern story. The opening shots of the real Titanic, we are told, are obtained during an expedition led by Brock Lovett ( Bill Paxton ), an undersea explorer. He seeks precious jewels but finds a nude drawing of a young girl. Meanwhile, an ancient woman sees the drawing on TV and recognizes herself. This is Rose (Gloria Stuart), still alive at 101. She visits Paxton and shares her memories (“I can still smell the fresh paint”). And he shows her video scenes from his explorations, including a computer simulation of the Titanic's last hours--which doubles as a briefing for the audience. By the time the ship sinks, we already know what is happening and why, and the story can focus on the characters while we effortlessly follow the stages of the Titanic's sinking.

Movies like this are not merely difficult to make at all, but almost impossible to make well. The technical difficulties are so daunting that it's a wonder when the filmmakers are also able to bring the drama and history into proportion. I found myself convinced by both the story and the saga. The setup of the love story is fairly routine, but the payoff--how everyone behaves as the ship is sinking--is wonderfully written, as passengers are forced to make impossible choices. Even the villain, played by Zane, reveals a human element at a crucial moment (despite everything, damn it all, he does love the girl).

The image from the Titanic that has haunted me, ever since I first read the story of the great ship, involves the moments right after it sank. The night sea was quiet enough so that cries for help carried easily across the water to the lifeboats, which drew prudently away. Still dressed up in the latest fashions, hundreds froze and drowned. What an extraordinary position to find yourself in after spending all that money for a ticket on an unsinkable ship.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

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Film credits.

Titanic (1997)

Rated PG-13 For Shipwreck Scenes, Mild Language and Sexuality

194 minutes

Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson

Kate Winslet as Rose Dewitt Bukater

Bill Paxton as Brock Lovett

Kathy Bates as Molly Brown

Billy Zane as Cal Hockley

Written and Directed by

• James Cameron

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Writing Prompts about Titanic

• 🗃️ Essay topics
• ❓ Research questions
• 📝 Topic sentences
• 🪝 Essay hooks
• 📑 Thesis statements
• 🔀 Hypothesis examples
• 🧐 Personal statements

🔗 References

🗃️ essay topics on titanic.

• Causes and Consequences of The Tragic Sinking of the Titanic.
• Debunking the Myth of the Titanic.
• Heroism and Sacrifice in Stories of Courage on the Titanic.
• A Glimpse into the Lives Lost of Titanic’s Passengers.
• A Floating Palace of Luxury and Innovation Titanic.
• How Titanic’s Tragedy Shaped Maritime Regulations.
• Remembering Titanic’s Crew Members.
• Enduring Impact of Titanic on Books, Films, and Art.
• The Iconic Shipwreck of Titanic and Its Exploration.
• Analyzing the Structural Weaknesses of Titanic.
• Social Stratification and Inequality on Board of Titanic.
• Their Roles, Challenges, and Contributions Titanic’s Womens.
• The Story of the Band’s Heroic Efforts of Titanic.
• Titanic’s Impact on Maritime Law and Safety Regulations.
• Memorials and Commemoration of the Lives Lost on Titanic.
• Exploring the Fateful Encounter of The Titanic and the Iceberg.
• Tales of Resilience and Survival on Titanic.
• Symbolism and Collective Memory about Titanic.
• Preserving and Exhibiting the Relics of a Bygone Era of Titanic.
• Unraveling the Stories of Cancelled Passengers of Titanic.

❓ Titanic Research Questions

• What were the main factors that led to the sinking of the Titanic?
• How did the Titanic’s design and construction contribute to its vulnerability?
• What were the social and economic impacts of the Titanic disaster?
• What role did class and social hierarchy play in the evacuation and survival rates on the Titanic?
• What lessons were learned from the Titanic disaster and how did they shape maritime safety regulations?
• How have the accounts of survivors and eyewitnesses shaped our understanding of the Titanic’s sinking?
• What impact did the Titanic disaster have on the public’s perception of luxury ocean liners?
• How did the media coverage of the Titanic disaster influence public opinion?
• What advancements in maritime technology and safety have been made since the sinking of the Titanic?
• What were the experiences and stories of the crew members on board the Titanic?
• What were the economic factors that contributed to the demand for transatlantic travel on the Titanic?
• How did the Titanic disaster impact immigration patterns and the movement of people during that time?
• What role did the iceberg play in the Titanic’s sinking?
• What role did wireless communication play in the Titanic disaster?
• What impact did the Titanic disaster have on the reputation and future of the White Star Line?

📝 Topic Sentences about Titanic

• The sinking of the Titanic remains one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history, captivating the world’s attention and raising questions about its design flaws and safety measures.
• The social stratification on board the Titanic played a significant role in the evacuation and survival rates, highlighting the impact of class distinctions during times of crisis.
• The legacy of the Titanic disaster extends beyond its tragic end, shaping maritime regulations and safety standards, and prompting advancements in shipbuilding technology.

🪝 Good Hooks for Titanic Paper

📍 definition hooks on titanic for essay.

• The Titanic, a name forever etched in maritime history, refers to the ill-fated luxury ocean liner that met its tragic demise on April 15, 1912. With its opulent grandeur and technological marvels, the Titanic remains an emblem of both human ambition and the consequences of hubris on the high seas.
• The Titanic, a majestic and iconic vessel of the early 20th century, symbolizes both opulence and tragedy. This renowned ocean liner, known for its unparalleled luxury and size, met its untimely end in the cold Atlantic waters, leaving an enduring legacy as a cautionary tale of human overconfidence and the fragility of existence.

📍 Statistical Hooks about Titanic for Essay

• The sinking of the Titanic resulted in a devastating loss of life, with approximately 1,500 passengers and crew members perishing in the icy waters, making it one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history.
• The Titanic, measuring 882 feet in length and weighing 46,328 tons, was considered the largest and most luxurious passenger ship of its time, boasting extravagant amenities and accommodating over 2,200 passengers and crew members.

📍 Question Hooks about Titanic

• What were the key factors that contributed to the Titanic’s catastrophic sinking, and could the disaster have been prevented with different decisions and precautions?
• How did the tragedy of the Titanic impact maritime safety regulations and influence the design and construction of future ocean liners, aiming to prevent similar disasters from occurring in the future?

📑 Good Titanic Thesis Statements

✔️ argumentative thesis on titanic.

• The sinking of the Titanic in 1912 was a tragedy that could have been prevented, highlighting the negligence of the ship’s crew, the inadequate safety measures, and the overconfidence in the vessel’s unsinkability, ultimately leading to the loss of countless lives.
• The Titanic’s sinking in 1912 serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked hubris, as the pursuit of opulence and prestige overshadowed critical safety considerations, resulting in the needless loss of lives and a devastating blow to the reputation of the “unsinkable” ship.

✔️ Analytical Thesis Examples on Titanic

• The Titanic’s tragic sinking in 1912 continues to captivate public interest and serve as a lens for examining societal structures, class divisions, and human responses to the crisis, shedding light on the complex dynamics and lasting impact of this historic maritime disaster.
• Through a nuanced analysis of survivor accounts, historical records, and cultural representations, the Titanic disaster emerges as a symbolic microcosm of early 20th-century society, revealing profound insights into class distinctions, gender roles, technological advancements, and the fragility of human ambition in the face of natural forces.

✔️ Informative Thesis Samples about Titanic

• The sinking of the Titanic in 1912 remains one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history, highlighting the profound impact of human error, technological limitations, and the subsequent advancements in maritime safety that continue to shape the industry today.
• The sinking of the Titanic in 1912 serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of inadequate safety measures, ineffective communication systems, and the urgent need for improved maritime regulations, leading to significant advancements in shipbuilding and safety standards in the aftermath of the tragedy.

🔀 Titanic Hypothesis Examples

• The socioeconomic class of passengers on the Titanic had a significant impact on their chances of survival.
• The availability and accessibility of lifeboats on the Titanic directly influenced the survival rates of passengers.

🔂 Null & Alternative Hypothesis about Titanic

• Null hypothesis: The socioeconomic class of passengers on the Titanic had no significant impact on their chances of survival.
• Alternative hypothesis: The socioeconomic class of passengers on the Titanic had a significant impact on their chances of survival.

🧐 Examples of Personal Statement about Titanic

• With a passion for history and a deep fascination with the human experience, the story of the Titanic captivated my imagination from a young age. The tragic events that unfolded on that fateful night have served as a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. I am drawn to studying the Titanic not only to uncover the historical details and unravel the mysteries surrounding its sinking but also to gain a profound understanding of the individual stories and the lessons they hold.
• The story of the Titanic has always held a special place in my heart. The courage, resilience, and sacrifice displayed by the passengers and crew during that fateful journey inspire me to explore the depths of history and human nature. Through studying the Titanic, I aim to delve into the intricate details of this tragic event, uncovering untold stories and shedding light on the lessons it imparts. I am eager to analyze the technological advancements and their impact on maritime safety, examine the social dynamics and class divide aboard the ship, and understand the far-reaching consequences that followed the disaster.
• Behavior under Extreme Conditions: The Titanic Disaster
• Titanic Disaster Prediction Based on Machine Learning Algorithms
• Titanic Mass Murder Plot
• The Unsinkable Titanic Data
• Titanic and the People on Board: A Look at the Media Coverage of the Passengers After the Sinking

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AssignZen . "Writing Prompts about Titanic." June 23, 2023. https://assignzen.com/writing-prompts/titanic-essay-ideas/.

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Film Analysis of “Titanic” by James Cameron

Introduction, auteur theory and titanic, production techniques in titanic, the film and society.

Titanic (1997) is an epic film directed, written, produced, and co-edited by James Cameron. Titanic is an epic film that shows a love story in a setting of a great disaster. The story involves a seventeen-year-old Rose who falls in love with Jack, who rescues her. The whole story takes place on board the famous ship. The movie describes Rose’s penniless mother forcing her daughter into a marriage with a rich, supercilious snob Cal. Devastated, Rose attempts suicide and is saved by Jack, who is a traveling artist. Later on, Rose and Jack fall in love, despite being from very different social classes. Rose decides to leave Cal and gets together with Jack, and right at that time, the Titanic crashes into an iceberg. The plot then turns into Rose and Jack’s attempts to save themselves from a sinking ship. Overall, Titanic is a cultural phenomenon and will be further analyzed through the auteur theory. Its production techniques and the movie’s connection with society will be discussed over the course of this essay as well.

Auteur theory is a film theory that states that the director is the author of a film and, therefore, their intentions are what shape the film’s narrative. Auteur theory is a way of analyzing films that focuses on the role of the director in shaping all aspects of a film (Morrison, 2018). This includes what the movie looks like, who plays which roles, and how it ends. To some, it is an ultimate goal to achieve total control over every detail in their movies.

James Cameron is an ultimate example of an auteur director, thus making Titanic a perfect film to analyze through the lens of this theory. Cameron not only directed but also wrote the screenplay, produced, and even co-edited Titanic . The three components of auteur theory are technical competence, different personality, and interior meaning (Morrison, 2018). All three components in Titanic fully demonstrate Cameron’s directing talent.

In terms of technical competence, the film is ahead of its time. The special effects from 1997 can match contemporary easily. The ship is demonstrated in great detail and is nearly a perfect copy of the actual ship. That is one of Cameron’s distinctive touches, that attention to detail. The film is one of the most expensive movies ever made. The director not only wrote the screenplay but also helped with montage and editing, as well as casting choices.

Regarding distinguishable personality, Titanic is a historical fiction where fictional characters cross paths with real ones. It is a “Romeo and Juliette” story on the Titanic, and it works because it makes the storyline relatable. The plot has seven fictional characters, and the rest are real people, demonstrating the incredible amount of historical research done for that movie. The film can relate to the modern audience because of the simplicity of the love story in it. James Cameron is famous for this hands-on approach, and Titanic is a testament to his genius. Auteurs make films that have many layers of hidden meaning. Titanic’s basic layer of meaning is that it is a tragic love story. However, when digging deeper, one can see the social drama and tragedy, explore examples of toxic relationships and discover the life purpose of the heroine. The film’s biggest theme is a social drama, showing classism and gender inequality.

There is a number of specific techniques and design elements employed in the film as they contribute to the overarching narrative and theme of the film. They include elements of mise-en-scène (e.g., lighting, sound, the composition of the frame, costuming, etc.) and editing (e.g., cuts and transitions, shots used, angles, etc.).

The production design of Titanic is incredibly specific and accurate to the time; all the little nuances and touches turn the title character, a ship, into an actual one that the audience cares about. In every other scene, the shot demonstrates the ship, which artfully grabs the viewer’s attention to the details of the Titanic. The composition of the frame also reveals the details in the shot. Especially the moment when Rose is presented with a diamond by Cal, and the shot shows them reflected in the mirror, slowly zooming in. The scene shows how desperate and trapped Rose looks, and the exact opposite for Cal. It is a relatively simple shot, but it makes the storytelling incredibly impactful, demonstrating a clear difference and incompatibility between the characters.

Another design element that contributes to the narrative in Titanic is costume design. At the beginning of the scene, Rose is dressed very similarly to her mother. The heroine has agreed to marry for money and is following a path chosen for her. Throughout the movie, her dresses change and become simpler. When Rose and Jack finally get together, she wears a very simple grey dress, seemingly showing her agreement to become a part of his social status (which is much lower than hers). When Rose is rescued, she wears that simple dress and a man’s coat; she is completely stripped of anything that might identify her class. This shows that the heroine has chosen a path for herself to move forward, and she departs from her old life.

The shots and transitions in the sinking scene demonstrate Cameron at his finest. The director shows how every single detail of the entourage on the ship is destroyed. It is followed by the close of the characters, and their emotions make the scene more powerful. Moreover, the story turns the ship from a simple exterior into a character of the film. In the scene where the head engineer apologizes to the main characters, the shot is angled to demonstrate that the boat is sinking. The apology is made for not building a stronger ship, which gives the boat a voice, thus turning it into a character. It is not the engineer apologizing; it is the ship apologizing, which makes the sinking scene much more powerful.

Titanic presents three main issues: classism, sex, and gender inequality. The main characters are from different social classes, which causes the majority of problems. Throughout the story, Titanic skillfully demonstrates classism, where characters from different classes are treated very differently. When saving of upper-class passengers was extremely different from the lower-class ones, to the point where it caused the loss of many lives. Another social problem in the film is gender inequality, where Rose is not allowed to make her own choices and is patronized by Cal. The film raises very deep social questions that are still relevant today.

James Cameron is an example of an auteur director; he directed, wrote the screenplay, produced, and even co-edited Titanic . This gave him an opportunity to fully control the filmmaking process resulting in a masterpiece. One of Cameron’s unique touches is omnipresent attention to detail, which makes the film stand out. The film uses visualization and design techniques that emphasize the characters’ journey. Titanic is a social phenomenon that demonstrates the highest skills in acting and directing and presents contemporary social problems that did not lose their relevance even now.

Morrison, J. (2018). Auteur theory and my son John . Bloomsbury.

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StudyCorgi . "Film Analysis of “Titanic” by James Cameron." June 19, 2023. https://studycorgi.com/film-analysis-of-titanic-by-james-cameron/.

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“Titanic” by James Cameron: Storyline, Language & Characters Analysis Analytical Essay

Screenplay storyline, use of strong language, characters, and action, screenplay: creative writing, works cited.

The “Titanic” movie starts with a scene under the ocean where pictures are dark blue, and then a light appears in the background. There are few submarines movements in the darkness and then light shines on a “ghost ship emerging from the darkness” (Cameron 2). Some fans of this movie say that, the first scene is remarkable because the shots were taken from actual recording of the real Titanic (Barton 119).

The head of the excursion is Brock Lovett and is just exploring to find valuables, which might have been carried to the ship. However, the team finds a safe with drawings and other decomposed papers. Interestingly, one of the drawings is of a naked woman wearing diamond. This drawing is suitably named “The Heart of the Ocean” (Cameron 70).

As this picture is shown on camera, Rose Calvert calls Lovett claiming that she is the woman in the drawing. She is flown in immediately. She begins to narrate the story of a seventeen-year old girl, Rose DeWitt Butaker, forced into marrying a man she does not love, Cal Hockley. Cal is rich, eccentric, and materialistic. Rose is naïve and troubled (Barton 121) while Cal is old and seemingly experienced These characters set up a distinctive, but anticipated storyline.

The story starts at a farewell of the RMS Titanic. The ship is nicknamed “Unsinkable” (Cameron 25). The first class passengers board with their bags and even pets while third class passengers are checked for lice and diseases.

This scenario is an intriguing contrast of the two groups – the rich and the poor. Jack Dawson, a poor artist, also gets onboard with a friend, Fabrizio De Rossi, who wants to escape to America (Cameron 29). Jack spots Rose on first class level shortly after the ship departures. She is miserable because of her upcoming wedding to Cal. She wants to commit suicide, but luckily, Jack stops her.

A friendship immediately spurts, later to turn into a romantic affair. With the story developing, the ship, on the other hand, is pushed to the limit. The captain wants to break a speed record. Bruce Ismay, one of the passengers, lures Captain Smith into the challenge despite fair warnings. He says, “…Captain, the press already know the size of Titanic, lets amaze them with her speed, as well. We have to give them something new to write…” (Cameron 207).

Taking up the challenge, Captain Smith pushes to full power. It is tragic that the speeding Titanic hits an iceberg leading to its demise in the end. The scenes in the movie are astounding. As the ship hits the iceberg and begins to sink, the experience is one of the most exhilarating moments ever on television (Sandler, and Studlar 15). In essence, the awesome grandeur of actions as the sequence unfolds is perfect for movie making. The intense and suspenseful sinking is thrilling and spectacular.

Every movie has some flaws, and there could be moments when the momentous effects and animations are in waver. Nevertheless, the scenes from the sinking ship are particularly crucial for the development of this great story. The lighting effects and soundtrack make it near perfect. The incredible suspense created in the intertwining scenes surpasses most movies ever created, with the audience terrified, as it tries to guess who survives and who dies.

Essentially, the movie seems not to have been meant for children even with a rating of PG-13. The film may be tenser, irritating, and disturbing for younger children. The movie does have some foul language like the use of ‘F’ word twice. However, with three hours running time, profanity is sparse.

Cameron seems to have been extremely keen when writing the script to avoid profanity as much as possible. The film hence develops to be mature even though there is an incidence of nudity (naked Rose)…”In her late teenage or early twenties, a nude woman, posed with some casual modesty” (Cameron 13).

Compared to most movies of today, nudity in Titanic was chaste and brief considering that, Jack did not exploit it. The scene is not presented in a coarse and overly sexual manner; though that was not right for the lead character in a movie rated PG 13. Even with a love scene, the movie just builds this love story, and with that brilliant use of language, children understand that the movie is not promoting sexual behavior.

The thing to worry about is probably the disturbing violence in the movie. There is mass panic when people begin to drown and plunge into the sea as Titanic sinks. Confusion reigns and families stressed as some children get lost amid the ensuing hysteria. “There is a picture of a child, a three year-old, ankle deep at the center of an endless corridor.

The child is alone, seemingly lost and crying” (Cameron 23). Some people even commit suicide by just jumping into the water out of desperation. At the end of the film, there are many dead bodies including infants, floating and frozen.

There is an unbelievable combination of humor, romance, suspense, and action into the script beyond words. The central story is re-invented, by the scriptwriter, to fit the characters. For teenagers to develop immediate interest into each other, (Jack and Rose), is understandable. Rose is suffering emotionally, and Jack supports her, something she is not getting from her fiancé, Cal.

Looking at the use of main characters, there was a unique presentation. Titanic is an emotional epic of a love story on a doomed sea voyage (Lubin 8). Only one character lives long enough to tell the story by the time the ill-fated ship is found. One can easily cry because of the intense emotion.

The dialogue in the movie is somehow lame though it brings about humor and moral righteousness. However, as one reads the script, there emerges a passionate love and romance between Jack and Rose. Because Rose’ fiancé, Cal, is an in love with his money more than he is with Rose; therefore, the story gives a reason why Rose falls for Jack (Lubin 18). Nevertheless, one wonders why Cal is presented as selfish uncaring rich man.

Essentially, if Cal Hockley were to be nice, but weak, probably the story could have developed more diminution. Jacks Dawson, on the other hand, is presented as a character with unknown past and a hazy future having only won a third-class ticket in a poker game. This character develops to become the object of seditious object for Rose DeWitt Bukater fall in love (Sandler, and Studlar 16).

He becomes the showpiece of the film. This relationship is not well developed though, as the two do not have a history together; it is merely a crush. It is tremendously refreshing to have a script with characters relationships that mean something. In the end, the film is a grossly sentimental story, but then it could have strained more if the characters had a deep history together.

Characters bring life to a movie and help to develop the theme of love knowing no boundaries (Lubin 38). An upper class girl, Rose, falls in love with Jack from lower class. They have an emotional connection; an overt move, but it fuels the movie. After a series of trials, Jack and Rose are finally over that and the ship crashes. There are few lifeboats for only 700 out of the 2,200 people onboard (Sandler, and Studlar 15).

The naive love story feels real each time in the movie, and dialogue in such moments is not easy to consume as real life situation. For teenagers in love, it is the innocence and pureness of this, which relationship makes the Titanic disaster more beguiling and extreme. Combined with thrilling action and exceptional animations, the audience feels that Titanic is the ultimate tragedy love-story.

There are different forms of creative writing ranging from poetry, to playwriting, and there is screenwriting. Plays and screenplays have distinct format that has to be followed (Burt-Thomas 64). A screenplay tells the film producers what to film. It is often highly complicated though it sounds easy.

The difference between screenplay and other forms of creative writing is the dialogue, description of each action, and description of anything that needs to be seen (Burt-Thomas 64). The names of the characters are centered, and every scene has a heading, a slug line. This describes the location as in indoors of outdoor, night or day among others, and it is always in caps.

Barton, Geoff. Developing Media Skills . London: Heinemann, 2001. Print.

Burt-Thomas, Wendy. The Everything Creative Writing Book: All You Need to Know to Write Novels, Play, Short Story, Screenplay, Poem, or Article . Holbrook: Everything Books, 2002. Print.

Cameron, James. “ Titanic ”. The Internet Movie Script Database, 1996. Web.

Lubin, David. Titanic BFI modern Classics. London: BFI Publishing, 1999. Print.

Sandler, Kevin, and Gaylyn Studlar. Titanic: Anatomy of a Blockbuster . New Jersey. Rutgers University Press, 1999. Print.

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IvyPanda. (2018, December 27). “Titanic” by James Cameron: Storyline, Language & Characters Analysis. https://ivypanda.com/essays/titanic/

"“Titanic” by James Cameron: Storyline, Language & Characters Analysis." IvyPanda , 27 Dec. 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/titanic/.

IvyPanda . (2018) '“Titanic” by James Cameron: Storyline, Language & Characters Analysis'. 27 December.

IvyPanda . 2018. "“Titanic” by James Cameron: Storyline, Language & Characters Analysis." December 27, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/titanic/.

1. IvyPanda . "“Titanic” by James Cameron: Storyline, Language & Characters Analysis." December 27, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/titanic/.

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Home — Essay Samples — Entertainment — Titanic — Review Of The Movie Titanic

Titanic Movie Review: Acting and Emotions

• Categories: Film Analysis Movie Review Titanic

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Words: 726 |

Published: Oct 2, 2020

Words: 726 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Movie "Titanic": a Brief Review Essay

Works cited:.

• Addams, J. (1902). Democracy and social ethics. Macmillan.
• Addams, J. (1910). Twenty years at Hull-House: With autobiographical notes. Macmillan.
• Addams, J. (1915). The Long Road of Woman’s Memory. The Atlantic Monthly, 116(4), 534-544.
• Addams, J. (1915). Women and public housekeeping. The Macmillan Company.
• Addams, J. (1919). Peace and bread in time of war. The Macmillan Company.
• Bryan, M. (2006). Jane Addams and the dream of American democracy: A life. University of Chicago Press.
• Knight, L. (2016). Jane Addams: Spirit in action. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Lasch-Quinn, E. (1993). Black neighbors, white immigrants: Race and community action in the making of America's immigrant church. Oxford University Press.
• Nash, M. (2013). Jane Addams: A biography. University of Illinois Press.
• Trolander, J. A. (1987). Professionalism and social change: From the settlement house movement to neighborhood centers, 1886-1950. Columbia University Press.

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How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

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Good Essay Topics on Titanic

• Essay Topics

• The History and Sinking of the Titanic
• Similarities and Differences Between the Movies “Titanic” and “Romeo and Juliet”
• The Night That Changed Everything for the Titanic
• Reasons Why the Titanic Was a Disaster
• Titanic: The Most Fascinating and Well-Known Ship in History
• Flaws, Failures, and Fractures of the Titanic
• Archetypal and Mythic Patterns in the Titanic
• The Titanic: The Birth of a New Generation and Its Terrible Destruction
• The Events That Led to the Sinking of the Titanic in 1912
• Human Neglect and Other Reasons Behind the Sinking of the Titanic
• How Has James Cameron Presented and Adapted the Story of the Titanic
• The Titanic and the Lusitania: The Ships That Have Changed History
• Historical Decision: The Incident of the Titanic
• Titanic: Standout Ship and Legendary Fail
• Researching the Sinking of the Titanic
• “Titanic” and Its Poetics Elements
• Derek Mahon’s Poem “After the Titanic”
• Structural Weakness and the Hull of the Titanic
• Titanic Tragedy: Night That We Will Always Remember
• Archetypal and Mythic Patterns in the “Titanic”

Most Interesting Titanic Topics to Write about

• Factors of Success of the Film “Titanic” by James Cameron
• Hollywood Elite and “Titanic” Film by Director James Cameron
• The Size, Shape, and Design of the Titanic
• The Theme of Social Classes and Inequalities in the Movie “Titanic”
• The Age-Old Mystery Surrounding the Sinking of the Maiden Ship Titanic
• Regarding the Titanic and What Should Be Done With the Remains
• Themes and Motives in James Cameron’s “Titanic”
• Impact of Sinking of the Titanic on the U.S. Capital Markets
• The Life and Works of Thomas Andrews, the Designer of Titanic
• The Wild Conspiracy Theory That the Titanic Never Sank
• Various Social Classes and How They Were Treated on the Titanic
• Captain Edward J. Smith on Trail for Sinking of the Titanic
• The Most Famous Survivor Passenger on Titanic
• How the Movie “Titanic” Relates to Suffering and Death
• Engineering and Construction Factors That Caused the Titanic to Fail
• James Cameron’s Presentation and Adaptation of “Titanic” for the Cinema
• The Real Story Behind the Discovery of Titanic’s Watery Grave
• Survival Prediction for Titanic Data Using Machine Learning Algorithms
• Comparing the “Titanic” Movie and the Real Titanic Story
• Comparison of the Movies “Titanic” and “Pearl Harbor”

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