Hi guys. I have a history paper due for my history class. I've uploaded a file regarding what arguments can be made from the book. I will also give you access to the book as needed. Here is information regarding it:

In your five-page analytical essay, you will corroborate or refute a main argument of my book (see list below). State the argument clearly, using brief quotations if possible and page references from The Rise of Western Power.

Present solid arguments and evidence from at least four outside sources (the textbook does not count as an outside source). For your outside sources, use only scholarly works, such as articles from our library search engine, and books by university presses. Cite full bibliographical references (see Essay Mechanics below).

Fill out the and send to your TA for feedback and guidance the Analytical Essay Worksheet(You will receive one point toward your analytical essay score after you completely fill out the worksheet and can receive a second point for thoroughly revising it under the supervision of your teaching assistant.)

Consider showing drafts of your work to either your TA or me for comments and suggestions (drafts will be accepted only until the Friday before the final week of class).

How to Research Your Topic

Let's say that you have decided to test the following contention of the book: "Fear of speculative philosophy stifled Islamic intellectual development after al-Ghazali." Do a series of searches using Google, such as "stifled Islamic intellectual development al-Ghazali" and "Islamic philosophical stagnation al-Ghazali" and "philosophical stagnation al-Ghazali, etc." In each case, be sure to click on the option "more" and select from the drop-down menu "books." Take a close look at all of the entries that seem promising based on the brief summaries. Some books, for which there is only a "snippet view" will be worth checking out of the library. You will also have to check out of the library those books that Google Books does not allow you to view adequately. If any particular book is unavailable at our library. (books usually arrive within a week).

Search similar phrases in our library search engine. You can undertake the same kind of searches for any of the major arguments of the textbook. Finding the appropriate phrases to search can be a little tricky, so be sure to play around with potential phrasing.

See also the Research Methods in History page developed by our librarians. For other library resources, click here.