Untitled Document

Hi 213: Ancient Rome

Guidelines for Research Papers

Why Research Papers?

In this course you are becoming an historian of Roman antiquity. Part of that process is to master a great deal of information -- "facts" -- about the Romans that you have to know to make some sense of their culture. But facts are not history; they are merely its basis. History is the interpretation of facts through logic and imagination. When you argue a case about Roman culture to others, you are a Roman historian.

The value of this exercise isn't just academic. It is hard to escape historical questions. You will find your research experience useful if, for example, you become an attorney and need to argue a case about who did what and under which circumstances, or if you enter the business world and have to advocate a particular course of action for your enterprise. In addition, students have commented especially on how their writing skills were improved by preparing research papers.

Some things to remember.

You are completely in charge here. Pick a topic that matters to you; learn everything you can about it; and discuss it in persuasive, graceful English.
Some sample topics are linked here for you to consider. If you aren't feeling inspired, hopefully these will jump start your imagination.
Your paper should have a thesis. Inevitably, you will review information and summarize material in the paper, but if that is all you do, your grade won't be higher than C.
Be sure to consult primary sources as well as secondary sources. Read the works of ancient writers that bear on your paper. Look at the Pantheon or thebaths of Caracala if they are relevant to your topic. Whether the sources are primary or secondary, be sure to consult the requisite number.
Ask for help along the way. I am glad to read drafts (but not at the last minute, just before the deadline); the Writing Center tutors stand ready to help with your English; and the Reference Librarians in Reeves will be pleased to assist you in your research.
Manage your time carefully. Set a schedule for yourself and keep to it. Finish a draft of the paper in time to have it considered in the Writing Center and by me.
Follow the rules: observe the formatting requirements below, and take note of the characteristics of an outstanding paper.

Format:

The paper should be 5-7 pages long (not including title page or bibliography)
It should be typed & double-spaced.
Left margin: 1.5 in. Other margins: 1.25 in.
Type should be 12 pt. font.
Indent the first line of each paragraph 5 spaces.
Use footnotes, not endnotes or in-line citation. Observe University of Chicago (= Turabian) footnote format:
- The Chicago Manual of Style: The Essential Guide for Writers, Editors, and Publishers . Fourteenth edition. Chicago and London: The University of Chicago Press. 1993.
- Kate L. Turabian. A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations . Sixth edition. Revised by John Grossman and Alice Bennett. Chicago and London: University of Chicago Press. 1993.
Include at least 5 secondary sources in addition to two primary sources. These should not include encyclopedias except in specific cases that I have approved.
At the end, add a list of works consulted. This should be formatted according to the Chicago Manual of Style.

Resources:

The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers is authoritative on all questions of formatting.
For a research strategy that will take you from the beginning of your project to the end using materials available at Moravian, consult the Research Tutorial on Reeves Library's home page.
Pay particular attention to the explanation of how to identify a topic, and be sure to reach the discussion of using Library of Congress subject headings to search MOSYS.
For basic reference works and a list of Web sites that you may find helpful throughout your work on this assignment, see the linked list of research materials

For a set of on-line writers' tools (e.g. a digitized Roget's Thesaurus) that are useful in preparing any paper, consult "Research Resources for Writers"

Tutors in the Writing Center (Zinzendorf 1) offers assistance in all phases of the writing process. Call to make an appointment. Do not wait till the last moment. You are not alone in wanting help with your paper, and as deadlines in courses approach you will find it increasingly difficult to get an appointment.

Some Characteristics of an Outstanding Research Paper:

Its thesis is clearly stated and skillfully supported.
It is readily understandable.
Transitions are clear.
It contains ample illustrative material.
It maintains a high level of interest.
Its opening is fresh and provokes curiosity.
Points are supported by good examples.
It is technically proficient:
- Grammar
- Punctuation
- Spelling
- Formatting
It demonstrates mastery of its subject, including:

Familiarity with the most important primary and secondary sources

Appreciation of the historical problems that the subject entails.

Return to DG Glew home page