Historical analysis
Instructions
Primary Source Essay #2
For this essay, choose one of these primary sources and write a one to two-page double spaced historical analysis of the source
Letter of Pliny the Younger to the Emperor Trajan
Testimonium Flavianum
An account of the Conversion of Constantine
Edict of Milan
Using what you have learned from your textbook readings, the lectures, the forum discussions, and the other primary sources, answer the following questions:
Who is the ‘author’ of this text? (do we know? How does that affect the text?)
When was this text produced?
What is the historical context of the text? What information does the text given us about the political and religious environment?
How is this source important for our understanding of the development of Christianity?
You will be graded using the following rubric:
Source Analysis
4-Highly Competent
3-Competent
2-Minimally Competent
1-Not Competent
Historical Context of the Document
Understands the historical context of the document in relation to the topic of study
Shows a basic understanding of the context of the document
Shows some understanding
Demonstrates no understanding
Point of View of the ‘author/s’
Identifies the point of view of the author and bias in relation to the intended audience and the author’s motive
Shows a basic understanding
Shows some understanding
Demonstrates no understanding
Organization
The paper is well structured and persuasive in the statement of its thesis, with an introduction and conclusion
Logically organized
Organization lacks coherence
Poorly organized
Development
Demonstrates depth of understanding of the topic, presents supporting arguments clearly and analytically, and provides excellent documentation
Demonstrates knowledge of the topic and provides supporting evidence and adequate detail
Presents undeveloped ideas
Lacks idea development and includes irrelevant information
Style
Written in an appropriately formal tone without slang. Language is precise and sentence structure varied.
Correct use of citations (footnotes or endnotes), quotes, and bibliography
Effective Use of Language
Citations and bibliography included but not proper format
Simplistic sentence structure and imprecise use of language
No citations or bibliography
Incorrect sentence structure and use of slang, jargon, or inappropriate language
Mechanics
The mechanics of the paper are correct. It is well written with no grammar or punctuation errors, and little or no use of the passive voice
Few errors
Errors are present that interfere with the presentation of ideas and arguments
Excessive errors in grammar and punctuation.
