Critical Essay
Due Date
March 29 by 11:59 p.m. All papers should be posted to Moodle.
Directions
Write a 4-6 page analytical paper on one of the following topics. Each paper must make a specific argument in answer to the question posed by the topic (or in the case of topics 5, a question of your own). This argument should be set forth in a thesis statement in the first paragraph and supported by a close analysis of details of the text. Your argument and analysis should not duplicate those discussed in class though of course you can and should draw on ideas from our class meetings. I am also happy to meet with you to discuss your essay, either during office hours or by appointment.
1.) Consider the role of memory in one of our course texts. Analyze how the text represents memory, and examine memory’s function. You might consider addressing how memory operates in the text? (is it individual or collective? does it begin with a feeling or thought?). Or you can address the ethics of recollection in the text; is memory a community service? Does it have political dimensions?
2.) Why is the legend of King Arthur so persistent? Choose two examples from our course reading and consider how they compare to one another. How does each author transform Arthurian legend and to what purpose?
3.) Analyze how gender functions in one or two of our course texts. Consider the way the texts respond to, shape, or critique gender roles. How does the text’s perspective on gender affect the text’s narrative? You might consider connecting the text’s treatment of gender to larger thematic concerns in the course such as how does gender fit into chivalric ethics or power negotiations. What roles do women have in these medieval or medieval set contemporary pieces?
4.) Chivalry was an ethical system about the proper use of power: how does a person with power (with a horse!) act toward those with less power? Choosing 1-2 of our course texts, explore its representation of chivalry and power. You might consider comparing a medieval and modern text to see if that representation has changed, or you might explore how a text examines the ethical goods or failures of chivalry as an ethical system.
5.) Develop a topic of your own choosing. If you choose this option, you must discuss the topic with me in advance.
Paper Format
4-6 pages, Double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 point font, 1-inch margins, MLA format (see the brief guide to MLA citations handed out in class and posted online)
Lateness Penalty
Unless I have approved a deadline extension in advance, late submissions will be lowered by a letter grade per 24-hour period. Late penalties begin immediately. If you want an extension, you must contact me at least 24 hours before the paper is due.
Grading Criteria
While writing style, correct grammar, and punctuation will affect your grade, the most important criteria will be the strength of your argument, the clarity and specificity of your thesis, and the quality of your analysis of the text.
Grading checklist:
1.) Clarity: Is the paper easy to follow? Does each sentence clearly contribute to the argument?
2.) Persuasiveness: Have you supported your argument with evidence from the text? Does each paragraph help to support your overarching thesis?
3.) Originality: Have you generated fresh insights, ideas, and perspectives? Have you made new and interesting connections?
4.) Depth of Analysis: Did you sufficiently analyze your textual evidence? Have you explained to your reader how your quotes’ imagery, syntax, diction, etc. contribute to their meaning?
5.) Presentation: Are there awkward or confusing sentences? Are there spelling errors or grammatical mistakes?
Write your paper with this grading checklist in mind:
A paper that is largely a summary of the plot or a statement of obvious theme or character relations will earn you a grade in the C range or below.
A paper that contains interesting analytical insights but whose argument organization still needs work will earn you a grade in the B range or below.
A paper that contains interesting analytical insights and is arranged into a clear, focused, and original argument will earn you a grade in the A range or be