Requirements: (1) Two short papers (the first paper c. 2-3 pp. and the second paper c. 4-5 pp.) on topics arising from the texts you read; in each cases, I will suggest the form of the paper but you will have substantial freedom in choosing the topic. (2) A longer paper (c. 5-7 pp.) developing your own views on a topic related to what you have read. (3) Two tests—the first shortly before midsemester and the second during exam week—including both short and longer essay questions on key concepts from the course. (4) Regular, prepared, and active participation in class (which may include completion of occasional brief writing assignments). Your final grade will be based on these in the following way: 10%, 15%, and 25% for the papers, 13% and 17% for the tests, and 20% for class participation.

Attendance and due dates: As part of my evaluation of your participation, I will be keeping a record of your attendance. You will be automatically excused if you notify me in advance that you will miss a class (e-mail or voice-mail messages are fine). After the fact, you will be excused if you give me a good reason or a dean’s excuse. Due dates for the papers are subject to negotiation. In each case I have set a default due date for the class (2/12, 3/23, and 4/20) and but I am willing to set individual due dates (within reason) for those who find the default dates inconvenient. My policy on missed deadlines is similar to that on missed classes: I’ll re-negotiate the deadline (again within reason) if I hear in advance, but after the fact I’ll expect an excuse. Unexcused missed deadlines will have an effect on your participation grade.