For this first assignment, you are to write an essay based on primary sources that reflect religious responses to the Bubonic Plague. Note that the authors represent views and experiences from across Europe and the Middle East and that their views are informed by Christianity and Islam. Read the sources, then write an argumentative essay that reflects on the religious dimension of the plague – think about how these authors reflected on the immense suffering and mortality and the differences between Islamic and Christian views.
Submission Guidelines
- Your essay should present an argument, and structured in a logical manner, including introductory and concluding paragraphs.
- The length of your assignment is 1000-1100 words.
- You must provide evidence to back up your argument and claims using the primary sources. Please use footnotes (and not in-text citations), and do not forget to include all the bibliographical information (including page numbers). I provided the first page of the book the sources came from to help you with your citations. Citations-free essays are unacceptable.
- Other than your textbook and the primary sources, you are not allowed to consult any other source, be it another book, an online resource or tool (such as ChatGPT), or a peer. Your submission should reflect your own ideas. If you are using the textbook, you must cite it.
- Plagiarism= zero + reporting
- Avoid vague and ahistorical claims (“throughout history”). Your writing should be specific and detailed. Engage closely and directly with the sources.
- Do not quote from the texts. Remember that quotes never replace analysis and in fact weaken your writing overall. Opt for your own words and paraphrase if you need to.
- Upload your assignment to Blackboard in DocX or PDF. Other formats will not be accepted. I will grade the document you upload; it is your responsibility your assignment was uploaded properly and on time.
- There are no “automatic extensions.” A late submission will incur a 5% per day penalty.
- Edit and proofread your work. Remember that you are being graded on writing style and clarity.