Problem
I. A formal history paper must have a strong introduction and clear thesis. Your introduction must concisely and clearly explain what your paper is about. The thesis is the stated central argument around which your paper is based. The goal of the paper will be to convince the reader of the truth of your argument, so it is absolutely necessary that the reader knows what that argument is.
II. A historical paper must provide clear analysis of its evidence, revealing and explaining to the reader the information that proves its point(s). Once you have decided on an argument (which will likely come to you after you have read a good deal of the book), you must then go about proving it. You cannot merely tell the reader that what you argue is true; you must show your reader what you argue is true. Make sure that every assertion is backed by evidence. Leave out material that does not matter with regards to your thesis. Use judiciously selected quotes from your source(s) to show exactly why you are arguing your points.
III. An essay should be logical in its organization at every level. Make sure that sentences make sense and contribute to the overall argument of the paper. Make sure that adjacent sentences relate to one another. Each paragraph should focus on one idea or topic. Like sentences, paragraphs should flow from one to the next with meaningful transitions. The entire construction of the paper should be working in an orderly fashion to build support for your thesis.
Important notes on this assignment:
i. Note that you must use at least 3 examples/quotes from The Black Death to support your argument.
ii. Your introduction should address the overarching themes of your answer to the question.
iii. Your thesis statement is extremely important and worth a significant portion of your overall paper grade. Make sure you take a position and have an argument. Be decisive!
You may use the following sources in your paper (please note that any use of external internet sources must be cited):
The Black Death: A Personal History, by John Hatcher
i. The West in the World, Sherman, Volume I
ii. Materials posted in Blackboard and McGraw-Hill Connect
iii. Internet / Google reputable sources.
Your paper must be at least 1500 words but no more than 1800 words.
What insights does The Black Death: A Personal History provide into the experiences of the average person in the Middle Ages? Building on the semester theme of how individuals process their hardship and challenges, especially in terms of their belief system, how does the devastating effect of the Black Death on their community test and define faith thereafter? Think about the seeds this may have laid for the Renaissance.