Critical Analyses
1: Everything's an Argument
The title of our textbook for this course presents an argument within itself. Before we begin our study, what is your initial response to the statement behind this text's title? Analyze the statement critically. Is everything an argument? What is necessary for something to be viewed as an argument? Consider the images on the cover of our textbook and how any of them could be viewed as support for the statement behind the textbook's title.
In three thoughtful paragraphs (including an engaging lead, supportive body, and solid conclusion), respond to the title of our textbook and the statement it delivers: "Everything's an Argument." Please type (and edit) your response in the submission box provided below.
This assignment is due by the end of the day Thursday, August 16.
This assignment is due by the end of the day Thursday, August 16.
2. "A Modest Proposal"
Click HERE to access Jonathan Swift's satire, "A Modest Proposal." Download and save the file so that you may annotate the text while reading. As you read, be sure to read critically, paying particular attention to how Swift (as a speaker, presenting this proposal to the public of Ireland in 1729) utilizes Artistotle's rhetorical appeals. After reading, respond to the following questions utilizing the submission form below.
Questions
1) Discuss the irony of the title of this persuasive piece.
2) Identify examples of ethos, pathos, and logos within this piece.
3) Identify examples of three other types of propaganda/persuasive techniques that Swift uses to support his point.
4) What is the thesis of this persuasive piece?
5) What subtle description does this piece give of Americans?
6) Describe the tone of the speaker’s voice on page 3 of this piece, specifically in paragraphs 3-5.
7) Explain how the relations of tenants and landlords will improve if this proposal is accepted.
8) What is the speaker’s view on the “several plump young girls in this town”? How does this opinion aid his argument for his proposal?
9) Paraphrase 3 of the 6 advantages that the speaker’s proposal will bring (see pages 5-6). All are completely logical, correct? As a member of Swift’s audience in that time period, what would your reaction be?
10) Explain and discuss the satire that is behind the speaker’s described advantages.
11) Reread the fourth paragraph on page 6. What is the irony in the speaker’s first statement here?
12) Reread the large paragraph that begins on the bottom of page 6 and ends at the top of page 7. What does this say of the time period? Explain the hidden satire that reveals itself within this passage.
13) What is the speaker’s true intent of this piece?
14) Explain how Swift’s method of persuasion works…
15) What are at least three of the follies that are highlighted in this satirical piece?
1) Discuss the irony of the title of this persuasive piece.
2) Identify examples of ethos, pathos, and logos within this piece.
3) Identify examples of three other types of propaganda/persuasive techniques that Swift uses to support his point.
4) What is the thesis of this persuasive piece?
5) What subtle description does this piece give of Americans?
6) Describe the tone of the speaker’s voice on page 3 of this piece, specifically in paragraphs 3-5.
7) Explain how the relations of tenants and landlords will improve if this proposal is accepted.
8) What is the speaker’s view on the “several plump young girls in this town”? How does this opinion aid his argument for his proposal?
9) Paraphrase 3 of the 6 advantages that the speaker’s proposal will bring (see pages 5-6). All are completely logical, correct? As a member of Swift’s audience in that time period, what would your reaction be?
10) Explain and discuss the satire that is behind the speaker’s described advantages.
11) Reread the fourth paragraph on page 6. What is the irony in the speaker’s first statement here?
12) Reread the large paragraph that begins on the bottom of page 6 and ends at the top of page 7. What does this say of the time period? Explain the hidden satire that reveals itself within this passage.
13) What is the speaker’s true intent of this piece?
14) Explain how Swift’s method of persuasion works…
15) What are at least three of the follies that are highlighted in this satirical piece?
3. Annotated Bibliography
Select three of the sources you are referencing for Essay 4 to analyze critically. Organize your analyses (at least 1/2 page per source) first in a Google Drive document, and then upload the file into the assignment provided on Google Classroom. To view a sample Annotated Bibliography, click HERE. Your Annotated Bibliography must include the following elements:
- Bibliographical citation for each source, organized alphabetically
- Critical review of each source (analyze the content of the primary source as it stands on its own)
- Discussion of how each source will enhance your essay
