Arguing Through Texts

“If men within themselves would be governed by reason and not generally give up their understanding to a double tyranny of custom from without and blind affections within, they would discern better what it is to favor and uphold the tyrant of a nation.” – John Milton, The Tenure of Kings and Magistrates

Prompt:

Choose a Custom to question. Historicize this Custom, make an argument for why it should no longer be followed, and provide a practical and detailed revision for a replacement Custom.

In a thesis driven, argumentative essay, argue why your chosen Custom should no longer be followed and how it should be altered to fit into today’s society. Using your own personal research, address this issue in an objective manner without using any personal narrative. As this is an argumentative essay, the goal of your writing should be to persuade your audience to agree with your position.

Purpose:

The purpose of this essay is to convey to your audience why Customs should not be blindly followed. Certain Customs are in effect because they are handed down from generation to generation but do not necessarily apply to today’s societal needs. It is your job to question these Customs and provide a logical argument as to why others should question these Customs as well.

Considerations:

Think about the factors that can influence this topic. Why was this Custom originally established? Why is it still in use today? Will you be able to present counter argument in an effective, non-biased manner? What is the societal, political, or economic impact of your topic?  

Requirements

·         4-6 Double Spaced Pages

·         MLA Style with Proper Heading

·         4-6 Academic Sources (No “.com” Websites)

·         Times New Roman Font

·         12pt Font Size

·         1” Margins

Due Dates:

The essay will be due in portions as an outline, first draft, second draft, and final draft. It is important that you complete your work on time so that you can participate in our Peer Review sessions. Please make arrangements to go to the Writing Lab at the LRC if you need any assistance with this essay, and as always, you can come see me with any questions or anxiety you may be experiencing.

• Tues, April 16^th                      by        5:00pm:                     Proposals
• Thurs, April 18^th                   by        8:00am:                     Invention Strategy (No Cluster)
• • Thurs, April 18^th                   by        8:00am:                     Draft 3.1 (2 Page Minimum)
  • Thurs, April 25^th                   by        8:00am:                     Draft 3.2 (Complete Draft)