Instructions for the short papers

The aim of these several short papers is a simple one: to get you to think, in writing, about a particular issue or question raised by your reading – to engage critically, that is, with what you've encountered in the Latin. These papers will form the basis of several class discussions and will hopefully mean that you come to class with something to say.

Several things you should know:

• Although I will read these informal papers, I will not 'grade' them. All that is required to get full credit for the papers is that you complete the required four on time.
• Each paper should be either two pages in length or represent one hour's worth of work (including thinking about the subject) – whichever comes first. It may be, therefore, that a paper may be less than two pages and sometimes more.
• Papers should be typed and double-spaced, with name, date, and paper # clearly indicated. Although I will not check specifically for grammar, spelling, etc., it is expected that you will make some effort to write intelligible prose.
• These are not intended to be research papers; I'm interested in your thoughts, not someone else's. The only thing you will need to do in order to write them is read the assignments in Cicero.
• Five papers are assigned; you need only do four of the five (you may do all five if you wish – but no, this will not result in extra credit). Late papers are not accepted.
• Topics will be set the week prior to the day the paper is due and posted on our website.
• If you complete the four papers as stipulated, you will receive W credit for this class.