The Shock of the New: Midterm Essay

Due: Sunday, March 15, 11:59 PM CT | Points: 100 | Length: 1,200 words

Overview

This essay asks you to synthesize what you’ve learned in the first half of the course (Modules 14). You’ll develop an argument about a theme, movement, or set of works we’ve studied, using specific evidence to support your ideas. This is your chance to dig deeper into something that has captured your interest.

Choose One Prompt

Select one of the following prompts for your essay:

Prompt A: Revolution and Reaction

Early modernist movements (Fauvism, Cubism, Stravinsky’s music) deliberately shocked audiences by breaking artistic “rules.” Choose two works from Module 2 and analyze how they challenged conventions. Why did audiences react so strongly? What were these artists trying to achieve, and did they succeed?

Prompt B: Art and Catastrophe

World War I fundamentally changed artistic expression. Compare how artists responded to the waryou might contrast the optimism of pre-war modernism with the absurdism of Dada, or analyze how specific works attempted to represent trauma. What can art do in the face of catastrophe that other forms of expression cannot?

Prompt C: Identity and Expression

The Harlem Renaissance was both an artistic movement and a declaration of identity. Analyze how two or more works from Module 4 assert Black identity, challenge racism, or redefine what American culture could be. How did these artists use their work to claim space and dignity?

Prompt D: Design Your Own

Have a different idea? Propose your own thesis that draws on material from Modules 14. You must email Dr. Presley for approval by March 8 if you choose this option.

Requirements

• Length: 1,200 words (approximately 45 pages double-spaced)
• Thesis: A clear, arguable thesis statement in your introduction
• Evidence: Specific references to at least 23 works (artworks, texts, or musical pieces) from the course
• Analysis: Don’t just describeinterpret and argue
• Format: Double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins
• Citations: Cite your textbook and any other sources (MLA or APA format)

What Makes a Strong Essay?

• Arguable thesis: Takes a position someone could disagree with
• Specific evidence: Describes artworks in detail, quotes texts
• Analysis: Explains why your evidence supports your argument
• Organization: Logical flow with clear paragraphs
• Engagement: Shows genuine thinking, not just summary

Grading Rubric

Essay grading criteria and point values

CriterionPointsThesis & Argument: Clear, arguable thesis; coherent argument throughout25Evidence & Analysis: Specific examples from course material; insightful interpretation30Organization: Logical structure; clear paragraphs; smooth transitions20Writing Quality: Clear prose; proper grammar and mechanics15Format & Citations: Meets length; proper formatting; sources cited10Total100

Tips for Success

• Start earlygood essays need time for thinking and revision
• Re-read relevant sections of your textbook with your prompt in mind
• Visit the
• for free writing help
• Proofread carefully before submitting

How to Submit

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