In academic writing, endnotes serve as a method to provide additional information or citations without interrupting the flow of the text. They can be particularly useful in research papers, allowing writers to clarify points or reference sources while maintaining readability. Below are three diverse examples of endnotes in MLA format, demonstrating their application in different contexts.
This endnote is used in a literary analysis paper discussing the themes in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. It provides a citation for a direct quotation from a critical essay.
In The Great Gatsby, the symbolism of the green light represents unattainable dreams and aspirations. The protagonist, Gatsby, gazes at this light, embodying the struggle for success and acceptance.
^1 In his essay, “The Green Light: A Symbol of the American Dream,” John Smith argues that Gatsby’s longing for the green light illustrates the broader societal desire for wealth and status (Smith 45).
This endnote supports a historical argument made in a research paper about the causes of the American Civil War. It references a primary source document to strengthen the claim.
The debate over states’ rights significantly contributed to the tensions leading to the Civil War. Many Southern states believed they had the right to secede from the Union based on their interpretation of the Constitution.
^2 As noted in the