Christianity Essay

Topic: Four Films, One Book Prompt, and Course Reflection Due Date: at the beginning

• Fiddler On the Roof or Exodus Judaism February 23
• Conclave Christianity March 16
• Malcom X Islam April 13
• Siddhartha Buddhism May 4
• What I learned in Religion 115 May 11

Length: Two-page reflection/research papers

These three films and one brief book exemplify a life experience of each religious tradition treated in this course. These assignments are not film/book reviews; rather, they are intended to ground and broaden your learning proficiency with a vibrant film or book illustrating the compelling truths at the heart of each religious tradition.

Select one specific theme of each film/book that evinces the heart of the religious tradition. For instance, in Fiddler on the Roof, the role and importance of tradition for the Jewish people and how that plays out for Tevya and his family is a possible theme. In the film Conclave, you can consider the contemporary conflict between traditionalists and progressives in the Catholic Church. The role of conversion and submission for the lead character in the film Malcom X is important. In the book Siddhartha, you can examine the nature of nirvana or the state of enlightenment.

In this thesis-driven brief essay, you should argue logically toward a compelling end. Also, be attentive to proper formatting. Avoid an overview with a general thematic treatment. Do not write in the first person. Employ Chicago style sheet instructions. Give your work a provocative title. Part of this assignment is to execute a concise professional argument; therefore, length does matter. Do not write over the two-page limit.

Reflection Paper Topics (two pages)

• Fiddler on the Roof or Exodus Judaism February 23
• Conclave Christianity March 16
• Malcom X Islam April 13
• Siddhartha Buddhism May 4
• What I Learned in Religion 115 May 11

Reflection papers will be graded according to the following standards (see Grading Rubric on Canvas):

A The paper advances a critical argument with a clear thesis, content, and supporting data or evidence. The paper is well organized, with a clear introduction, engaging prose style, correct grammar, and proper formatting that adheres to Chicago Style instructions. Overall, the work demonstrates outstanding writing.

A- The paper advances a critical argument with a clear thesis, content, and supporting data or evidence. The paper is well organized, with a clear introduction, engaging prose style, correct grammar, and proper formatting that adheres to Chicago Style instructions.

B The paper demonstrates very good writing, clear organization, and proper formatting that adheres to Chicago Style instructions.

C The paper demonstrates good writing, clear organization, and proper formatting.

D The paper demonstrates poor writing and analysis and improper formatting.

F The paper demonstrates minimal effort, failing presentation, and improper formatting.

Rewrite No grade is given because of unacceptable writing, formatting, and generally poor performance by student, or erroneous data. Student must rewrite paper for a grade. Moreover, a student may be asked to rewrite the paper if the professor deems the student is not writing at their highest level.