LENGTH: 1000–1200-word essay (4-5 pages, double spaced)
INSTRUCTIONS:
You are tasked with developing an argument about one of these texts by using two critical texts we have read and discussed: (1) the introductory chapter on sport and pleasure; and (2) the introductory chapter on sport and masculinities. Work to find a connection between pleasure and masculinities in your reading of the creative text.
Critical Texts:
(1) Pringle, Rinehart, and Caudwell, Chapter one, Sport and the Social Significance of Pleasure
(2) Magrath, Cleland, and Anderson, “Introducing the Palgrave Handbook of Masculinity and Sport
Creative Texts:
(1) Faulkner, “An Innocent at Rinkside”
Detailed Guidelines
1.The critical texts offer a framework/methodology for reading our creative texts.
4. A focus or main point is not an argument. Here is a focus statement: I am reading hegemonic masculinities in “The Fight.” Here is a thesis statement: I am reading the ways in which Faulkner positions himself as a spectator at an ice hockey game and how his masculinity compares to that of other men in the arena and if he derives pleasure, how does he do from his position
5.Try to achieve balance in terms of paragraphs – none too long or too short. REGARDLESS OF YOUR PRACTICE (BRIEF OR LONG OUTLINES), DON’T SKIP THIS STEP.
7. Include a brief introduction and conclusion. If you look at the thesis statement in point #4, there can be three to four body paragraphs: one or two to explain the hegemonic and Inclusive Masculinities theories and the sport and pleasure theory; one to explore Faulkner’s positioning of his masculinity compared to that of other men in the text; and one to explore how he derives pleasure from his position. Include brief quotations from all three of your texts. Remember, this is a relatively short essay; there isn’t enough space to include long quotations and analyse all of the details.
8. Edit judiciously. Remove anything extra, anything that doesn’t help you to build your argument. Check for grammatical issues, clarity, and formatting issues.
9. The paper should conform to MLA guidelines. There should be no title page; instead, all of your information must be included on the first page in the upper left-hand side. Number every page (with your last name before each page number). Double space and indent your paragraphs. Use 12-point font. Include a Works Cited page.