Analytical Paper (20%):
Students will write one 5 page analytical paper that connects a specific course reading to deeper themes in Irish history and literature. The paper should focus on at least one specific literary work or historical document; you are also welcome to produce a paper that draws connections between multiple course readings. Papers should make an argument about the text, engage in critical analysis (e.g. a discussion of structure or context or a comparison to other course readings), and explain how the text connects to core themes in Irish Studies. By Wednesday, 29 July, you should pick one of the texts that we worked with in classes and seminars while traveling around Ireland. This can be any of the common readings on the syllabus (and you are welcome to pick multiple texts if you want to do a comparative analysis). This document will be the focus of your analytical paper and you should send Professors Cope and Doggett an email that includes the name of the document you will be discussing, the focus of your paper, and a preliminary thesis with outline; we will get back to you with suggestions and ideas. A full rough draft will be due no later than Thursday, 6 August. We will read your papers and send comments/suggestions within a few days. Your final version of the paper will be due by Saturday, 22 August.