for 11/09: read Henry James' "Paste." Pick a passage and approach it with the varied techniques of close reading, as discussed in class. In addition, write a 1-2 page argument pertaining to the election of Bloomberg. (Or any other subject you find suitable.) In this prose piece, you should try to use Montaigne's rhetorical strategies. That is, you don't have to write like Montaigne; just use his method of argument. Remember: he employs i) personification; ii) argument based on abstract dualities; iii) multiplication of examples for his case; iv) the appeal to common sense; v) a concomitant skepticism about excessively lofty ideals. You may not use all of these, but try to experiment with classical rhetorical strategies.
for 11/11: consider the texts for the presentation. Also, read and analyzing two examples of contemporary political polemic on the same subject. They are from different sides of the political spectrum, and both on the topic of Islam. "The European Dilemma" - a review of two books; and "The Future Belongs to Islam" - an article by the widely read Canadian columnist Mark Steyn. Each writer packages his opinion for an audience with a predictable viewpoint; how is this reflected in the style? How does each commentator "sell" his viewpoint? Is each writer stylistically typical of his political group?
Robin, would you like us to print out the 1-2 page argument and bring it to class on Tuesday? That is what it sounds like from your post. Or, should we post it to our blogs?
ReplyDelete