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Class Log Assignments: This will be a combination reading journal and daily work accumulation. For each day's reading, I want you to respond to three questions: (1) what is this "other" world like? how is it different from the normal world? (2) what "rules" apply in the otherworld that are unique? (3) what images are emphasized, seem most important? Your reponses should total about one written or typed page (obviously will vary somewhat depending on sizes). You may go beyond these three questions as you are moved to, and yes, the extra opinionating (just taking notes on the reading does NOT count) will be accounted for in the evaluation of the log: doing the minimum will guarantee you a "C" on the log (assuming it's all on time and complete) -- you build from there. As you accumulate in-class writings & small-group reports, include them on one side of the pocket folder. NOTE: do NOT use spiral-edged paper for your log -- no fuzzies. You will turn in your logs to me four times (see schedule for dates) over the term so I can read, spot-check, respond, and record in smaller chunks. Bring your reading log entries to class each day. Log will be 30% of grade.
Papers. Two assignments, one an article summary/reaction (15%) and the other a formal essay (30%).
(A) For the article, you must use the library to locate a substantial (at least 6 printed pages in a book or journal) scholarly article on any of the major texts we cover. The due date for the paper will vary depending on which text you choose. Be aware that some works are easier to find articles on than others (or find articles on in English), and the article should address in some way the issue of "other"ness as we define it in class. START EARLY on this to locate an appropriate article. You will probably need to order through ILL and will need plenty of lead time. If you don't know how to use the MLA Bibliography program, talk to the reference desk librarian and get instruction. This paper should, in place of a title, present the MLA-style bibliography entry for the article, and be about 3-4 pages long. You should summarize the article in about a page, then go on to react to and comment on how the article does or does not contribute to your appreciation for the text; provide reasons and support for your ideas. You are responsible for looking up unfamiliar vocabulary -- scholarly articles use scholarly language. Turn in a copy of the article with your paper.
(B) For the formal essay, you are to write on the Christian Otherworld, using the texts we cover in class. As I read through your log entries, I will look for ideas that may be fruitful beginnings for this paper. You MAY (but are not required to) use up to two secondary sources. You can address the whole tripartite hierarchy, one of the three parts, or some idea that carries through 1,2, or 3 of the parts. In your May 4th log submission, you are to include a freewrite on some ideas that intrigue you. On May 7th, I will provide you with a collection of prompts and possibilities collated from the class at large and my own musings. Be careful that this paper does not turn into a theological or doctrinal treatise -- remember, this is a LITERATURE class. All citations should follow MLA style; the essay should be 5-6 pages long. I will give extra-credit brownie points to any students who do peer-editing on their paper drafts outside class (in which case, you must turn in the draft and some rather substantial comments -- not just proofreading marks -- from the editing partner). This paper should exhibit highly polished writing.
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