HIST 1111 - World HIstory I - WANG: Writing
How to write a history paper?
- Reading, writing and researching history: a guide for college studentsA very detailed writing guide for history students by Dr.Patrick Rael from Bowdoin College
- Special Note on History Research Papers for History MajorsA concise and clear introduction to writing history papers.
Writing samples
- Example paper on inequality in classical eraDevelop an essay to respond to this question: “How philosophical, religious, or cultural ideas legitimate class and gender inequalities of classical civilizations?” (You can either focus on one religion/philosophy or discuss different traditions; you are also encouraged to expand your research and add more sources).
- Example paper on Confucius/Gilgamesh comparisonRead the assigned selections from “Analects of Confucius” and “Epic of Gilgamesh” and compare the attitudes of Chinese (Confucius) and Mesopotamians (Gilgamesh) to religion (deities and gods).
- Weekly reading report exampleSelect at least one piece from the assigned readings for the week and write your thoughts and questions.
- Example movie reviewLearn history from film and enjoy film from learning history
- Example paper-Modern China-Little SeamstressDai Sijie, Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress: A Novel (Paperback) (Anchor, 2002)
Questions to ask yourself when submitting your paper
Theme/Thesis: (Does the essay come to terms with the proposed topic? Is the point of the essay clear?
Organization/Argument/Development: Is the thesis developed consistently and logically?
Evidence/Materials/Understanding: Is the thesis supported by relevant examples? Do you show a grasp of course materials? Do you use evidence effectively?
Expression/Form: Is the essay written clearly, in standard English? How effective is your style?
Originality/Imagination: you really don’t have to be “creative” in your writing, but if you could surprise your professor by making a new and plausible point, why not?