Reference no: EM133552766

Research Paper Assignment

Summary

Rather than using research to develop a clearly defined argument on a topic and then defending that argument, you will insert yourself into history and consider it from the inside using the class material we've covered along with your own additional research. Assume the identity of a fictitious person from a historical context since 1500 and create narrative journal entries that describe your experience. In effect, you will be creating a counterfeit primary source.

Instructions

Choose an avatar - below are a few suggestions, but the possibilities are nearly endless:
1. Spanish navigator 1507
2. Aztec in Tenochtitlan 1525
3. Woman in Ming China 1650
4. Italian man 1550
5. Japanese soldier 1942
6. Artist in Germany 1517 or 1617
7. Montana logger 1910
8. African American in Topeka KS 1954

Write 6 to 8 pages in the form of journal entries on behalf of your character

1. Name your avatar after yourself or choose a historically suitable character name
2. Gender your avatar in a way that is historically fitting
3. Choose a cultural or racial identity that is historically fitting and that interests you

Task

Question 1. Which details can I use to distinguish the period I'm discussing from others we've studied?

Question 2. How could this journal be an excellent primary source for educating historians in the future?

Question 3. Is it useful to discuss what I and others are wearing?

Question 4. Was I born here? If not, why and how did I get here?

Question 5. What do I eat? What do I do for a living? How do I worship?

Question 6. Which side am I on if there's a debate, conflict, or battle involved?

Question 7. How old am I, and how has my world changed during my lifetime?

Question 8. Am I literate, or is someone writing this journal on my behalf?