| Progress report for week 3 | |
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BEFORE CLASS Today we will discuss a reading by Charles Postel. For purposes of this class we are not interested in the topic; instead we shall focus on how the author conveys a sense of importance for their research and writing with respect to our historical understanding of the past, and with respect to any contemporary resonance toward the present-day. 1. What techniques does the author use to hope that their research and writing catches the eye and really matters for readers like you? 2. How does the author address something that is missing from our knowledge and concern? 3. What is the author calling into question something that needs questioning, on a fundamental level? 4. Expanding upon what you wrote in your previous progress report, it is time to refine your research topic, both what it is, and why you believe it is important. (This is an ongoing re-thinking process.) So.... IN CLASS Today’s task is to refine your research topic, with the luxury of some undisturbed time. 1. Framing: What is the bigger situation (time) and world (place) around your topic? 2. What important (oft cited) books and articles exist about your topic and/or situation and world around it? (I.e., secondary sources; historiography.) 3. What is missing from our historical knowledge? 4. What needs fundamental questioning? 5. How do new concerns and perspectives from your own lifetime lead you to re-examine history? 6. What sources might you investigate? (I.e., primary sources; archives.) |