Intellectual Heritage A (Fall 2007) - Paper 1

Instructions

Write a paper on one of the topics below.

Topic #1

In the poem "Hymn to Aphrodite" Sappho invokes the goddess' assistance in winning the affections of a young woman. Should we understand this literally? Would winning someone's love by supernatural means be desirable? How would or wouldn't it differ from the way people normally fall in love? In answering this question you must provide an interpretation of the poem.

Topic #2

Explain the last two lines of Oedipus Tyrannus. What do you think they mean? How does the play support the meaning? You must support your answer with textual evidence.

Topic #3

For which character in Antigone does Sophocles intend for us to have the most sympathy? Who do you think is most deserving of our sympathy? You must support your answer with textual evidence.

Due Date

10/04

Length

The paper should be no more than 1,000 words. This is approximately 3 pages double-spaced with Arial 12 point font.

Format

The paper must be typed. It should be double spaced. It should have one inch margins. You should use a 12 point font. I prefer Arial, since it is easy to read.

Procedure

You will be required to hand in a paper copy at the start of class on the due date. In addition you must submit the paper through TurnItIn via Blackboard by midnight on the due date. TurnItIn is a plagiarism detection tool. It will compare your paper against others available online, in journals, submitted in this class, Temple, and from all other universities that use the software.

Note: Plagiarism will result in a failing grade in the class, not just on this assignment.