12.09.2018

One last thing...

Think back to all the poems, parables, scenes, and stories we read this semester. Select two of them - from different books - that have significant parallels or similarities that aren't obvious at first glance. In other words, I'm not looking for two stories that have nearly the same plot line (e.g. both feature a woman who couldn't have children and then TA DA she had a baby). I'm looking for something that's deeper, more creative, and more unexpected. If you're thoughtful and analytical, you can find links between opposite characters, distinct events, and other surprising things. As always, include specific details, beings sure to note book/chapter/verse where needed.

DUE by 11:59 on Wednesday, December 12th.
WORTH 25 extra credit points.


11.29.2018

Have you considered...?

Look through your notes from the recent round of Oral Papers.

Engage with ONE of the oral papers in one of the following ways:

1. Present a disagreeing rebuttal to the thesis, providing at least TWO items of textual evidence that support your rebuttal. (Provide chapter and verse for your rebutting evidence.)

2. Present a supportive response to the these, providing at least TWO additional items of textual evidence that bolster your support. (Provide chapter and verse for your supporting evidence.)

Please note: disagreeing with someone's thesis does not mean you thought their oral paper was weak or insufficient. It simply means you see things another way. In truth, a good thesis is one that a rational person can reasonably disagree with. So you needn't fret about hurting anyone's feelings.

Simply state your case - whether you disagree or agree and why (based on strong textual evidence).

Ready: go. DUE by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5th

11.15.2018

I am a poet, but I didn't know it.

The basic rhyming unit of Hebrew poetry is a complete thought. That "rhyme" isn't one of sound, but rather one of thought, for example:

I am weary to the bone.
Indeed, I am tired unto death.

Rhyming ideas isn't necessarily easier than rhyming words. In fact, it might be more difficult because it requires a certain finesse of phrasing and style.

For this post, you will compose a Hebrew-styled lyric. The basic structure will be as follows:

Part A (rhyming ideas about a certain topic/emotion/reality/etc.)
Pivot ("But....")
Part B (rhyming ideas that oppose/respond to/clarify/correct the content of Part A)

For example:
Several idea-rhymed couplets about how much school is breaking your spirit.
BUT several idea-rhymed couplets about what a privilege and gift it is to attend university.

Your poem can be serious, reflective, or onion-like sarcastic -- just be sure to follow the template above.

Parts A and B must each have at least 4 sets of rhyming couplets (i.e. 8 lines), so your final pome must be at least 16 lines long.

Ready - write!

Due by 11:59 on Monday, November 19th.



May I approach the bench, your honor?

Look through your notes from the recent round of Oral Papers.

Engage with ONE of the oral papers in one of the following ways:
1. Present a disagreeing rebuttal to the thesis, providing at least TWO items of textual evidence that support your rebuttal.
2. Present a supportive response to the these, providing at least TWO additional items of textual evidence that bolster your support.
As part of your response, you may draw parallels between two of the oral papers in substantive and interesting ways.

Please note: disagreeing with someone's thesis does not mean you thought their oral paper was weak or insufficient. It simply means you see things another way. So don't be afraid or worried about presenting an opposing view. In truth, a good thesis is one that a rational person can reasonably disagree with. So you needn't fret about hurting anyone's feelings.

If you take an opposing view, do it with respect and clarity.

If you take a bolstering view, do it without being overly "bravo awesome."

Simply state your case - whether you disagree or agree and why (based on strong textual evidence).

Ready: go. DUE by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, November 19th.

10.23.2018

Yes? No? Maybe?

Look through your notes from the recent round of Oral Papers.

Engage with ONE of the oral papers in one of the following ways:
1. Present a disagreeing rebuttal to the thesis, providing at least TWO items of textual evidence that support your rebuttal.
2. Present a supportive response to the these, providing at least TWO additional items of textual evidence that bolster your support.
As part of your response, you may draw parallels between two of the oral papers in substantive and interesting ways.

Please note: disagreeing with someone's thesis does not mean you thought their oral paper was weak or insufficient. It simply means you see things another way. So don't be afraid or worried about presenting an opposing view. In truth, a good thesis is one that a rational person can reasonably disagree with. So you needn't fret about hurting anyone's feelings.

If you take an opposing view, do it with respect and clarity.

If you take a bolstering view, do it without being overly "bravo awesome."

Simply state your case - whether you disagree or agree and why (based on strong textual evidence).

Ready: go. DUE by 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27th.