This essay is on Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Do you recognize his value in his own historical context, but not in ours? Is this writing style too florid and complicated for contemporary readers? Do you find his ideas engaging and intellectually relevant to your life?

Any reaction, as long as it’s informed and substantial (i.e., not I don’t like him ’cause he sucks) will be fine. Remember that it’s my job to disagree with you, and there’s nothing you can say about Emerson that will make me happy or sad, will make me agree or disagree with you.

I want your assessment.

This should be 1,000 to 1,200 words. Papers falling short of that mark will receive a failing grade without being read. The paper should be double spaced and should conform to MLA guidelines. Papers not double spaced will be penalized . . . ’cause how many times have I said it?

You should have five sources, quite apart from your classmates’ crib sheets. You should turn in an annotated bibliography for these sources.