Due at the beginning of class Wednesday, February 10, 1999

Discuss the following issue, in a one- to two-page paper (300-500 words):

Imagine you are an elderly woman living in the post-classical period. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of Islam and Hinduism as belief systems that shape the ways you are perceived and treated. Was one system preferable to the other?

Note: neither cultural system was intended primarily to consider elderly women — you’re being asked to compare implications. Consider the relevant values found in the belief systems as they might relate to treatment of elderly women.

Readings: Documents and chapters on Islam and Hinduism assigned through Feb. 10.

Make sure not to copy anyone else's paper or use ideas without correctly attributing them. When you use ideas or evidence from the readings, cite them clearly and fully. Improperly cited papers will harm your argument and your grade. A proper citation includes at least document title, and page number, for example: "Conditions of Women in Islam, Byzantine Christianity, and Western Christianity" in World History in Documents, p. 129. If there is a clear author, include her or his name at the front of your citation. Copied papers will result in a failing grade.

Please turn your paper in on time. Papers will lose one-third of a grade for each day they are late. Weekends count as one day. Do not shrink your text to smaller than 12 point, and remember to double-space your paper so I can write clearly between lines.

Be sure to look at the syllabus for my policies on citation and writing, which include an appropriate citation style and other specific points of advice. I will accept rough drafts of the paper up to Friday, February 5.

C: An honest attempt to answer the question.

B: Clear, relevant comparisons between the two civilizations which employ cited passages for both parts of the comparison. These comparisons should produce a logical, well-defended argument.

A: An "A" paper will demonstrate creative, well-reasoned thinking and thorough analysis of the primary sources. The paper will consist of a strong, well-written argument without grammatical or spelling errors.