Description
You will need to write a book critique on the book “Custer Died for Your Sins” By Vine Deloria. This paper is not merely a summary of the reading but should add to our understanding of history by critically analyzing the book. You will be graded on the analytical insight and thoughtfulness that is reflected in the paper.
Please answer these General questions:
1. What is the author’s thesis?
2. What is the author’s purpose?
3. How does the author organize and structure his/her material? Think about the different chapters and/or parts of the book. Are the chapters set up chronologically or does each address a different theme? How does the structure help to support the author’s argument?
4.What theories help guide the author? Does the author rely on other ideas and narratives presented by previous historians (historiography)? Is the author challenging previous or current historiography?
5. What sources does the author use to support his/her thesis? Are these sources well-chosen? Are there any problems with the reliance on these sources? Are there any sources that contradict the author’s point of view that he/she leaves out? Are there additional sources that help to bolster the author’s argument? (This would be a good place to include additional sources that have been discussed in class).
6. How well does the author support his/her argument? How well did the author accomplish his/her purpose? This is your opportunity to critically evaluate the book. Make sure to evaluate the author’s arguments in terms of whether or not they are convincing, well researched, and logical. How does the author’s work contribute to the public’s understanding of the topic. How does it contribute to the historiography? If you choose to disagree with the author you should do so strictly on academic grounds–i.e. use a reason-based argument to counter her or his argument.
Papers must be typed, double-spaced with 12-point font and 3-pages in length. No sources from outside of class are allowed but students are expected use the book. All sources must be properly cited in either MLA Format.
