To provide practical exercises in developing and undertaking historical research, and in the scholarly reporting of research results. In Small Things Forgotten . Robert Blair St. George, editor, Material Life in America, 1600-1860 . A Mid-Term exam on October 10th , and the final exam on December 12th . The first, due October 31st , is a paper of 5-7 pages that explicates the interplay between American forms and values in a period document.
Students can choose between the analysis of a court case and a probate inventory analysis.
This discussion will consider social statuses, period ideology and context, the built environment, and material objects. The proposal, as a research design, defines a particular question, issue, or hypothesis, and then advances both methods and sources to carry such research forward. Students may express their opinions, but in a manner relevant to the course, respectful of others right to participate in discussions, and not disruptive to the class. Similarly, cell phones and pagers are prohibited, except for emergency purposes. I strongly encourage you to see me if you have questions about the content of lectures and readings, or need assistance with assignments.