On essays

Several thoughts trying to make things clear:

1) Though I asked for an abstract, I DO NOT expect you to write a research paper. I just thought the general structure of an abstract (take a look at "Example 1: Humanities abstract" in this webpage) would be of great help in clarifying your ideas. Sorry if this was misleading. The (pseudo)abstract will be especially useful for me to point out any foreseeable shortcomings that can be avoided in the final version of your works.

2) Even so, if you wish to write a research paper, please do. This might be too much to ask as a universal requirement (class range goes from freshmen to seniors) , but if you already have some experience in research or want to give it a try, go for it. Should you undertake this endeavor, let me know if I can be of any assistance.

3) I don't want you to summarize the lectures in your essay. Instead, pick some specific point and think it over throughout your personal experiences (and past readings) and some of the recommended literature.

4) I don't expect you to exhaust the list of recommended readings. Consider that you'll be asked to write 4 essays during the term, each one of them being the reasonable outcome of one month of work for one of your courses. You may find other readings besides the recommended useful and inspiring: use them. I'd say that 4 to 8 sources of any kind (newspapers, tv shows, articles, books, movies, etc.) would be satisfactory.

5) A basic guide to writing an essay is available here. It could be useful if you have not much experience in essay writing or foresee some trouble writing in English. General advise: write short sentences.

6) If further explanation is needed, please post a comment. Particular inquiries can be made through email.

Thanks.