You will write dialogue journal responses, two formal papers and participate in one panel presentation. Dialogue journal responses are 2-3 page typewritten journals. You will respond to assigned writing prompts relating to the readings and generally the topics noted in class. In some cases, specific questions will be provided for you in the class session before. These responses will aid you in partnered discussions or quick workshops at the beginning of the session and in synthesizing critical theoretical material. In sorting out the meaning of each article assigned or assigned reading provide your own insights, and concrete examples that are relevant to the areas noted for that particular session.

The first paper, due Monday, 1/31 will be an essay (Undergrad: 5+ pages; Grad: 10+ pages) contextualizing women warriors. You will briefly research an area of interest that helps anchor a major woman warrior figure, form, and/or convention in a context, whether political-historical, philosophical-religious, or aesthetic. The first paper can be about a person, a work, an event, or an idea.

The second paper, due Wednesday, 3/9 will be a longer attempt (Undergrad: 10-15+; Grad: 15-20+ pages) to place a major work in the context identified in the first paper. Let's say, for example, you become intrigued by Ariosto's portrayal of Bradamante's visions of her birthright. You might write your first paper about attitudes toward establishing royal lineage in the Renaissance. Then, your second paper might analyze specific passages of Spenser's portrayal of Britomart to suggest how the poet elevated Queen Elizabeth's claim to the throne.

Additionally, you will participate in a three to four-member panel presentation to the rest of the class on topics of mutual interest to your panel team. Topics will vary and will emerge from class discussions. A solid website recognized and supported by the University of Bristol’s UK Social Science Information Gateway has been compiled to explore Women Warriors throughout history and might be a starting point for ideas. See http://www.lothene.demon.co.uk/others/womenprehist.html

Your final grade in the course will be computed as follows: first paper (20%), panel presentation (20%), second paper (40%), class participation including dialogue response journals (20%).