Though the course does employ a pair of secondary works and a handful of lectures, you will spend the bulk of your time dealing with early Americans in their words and on their terms. Because this seminar is designed to stimulate thought and expression, it is absolutely essential that we cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect. Each member of the seminar must feel at ease sharing ideas and posing questions. The success of this seminar depends on each member's participation. Students should be willing to venture their own thoughts and address the thoughts of fellow class members.
Participation requires preparation.
Students should come to class having read closely and thought carefully about the assigned readings. Participation presupposes attendance. A student's presence in the seminar will be expected. Papers must be turned in on time. In the absence of a legitimate excuse, a paper's score will be docked one point for each day late.