HISTORY 268 - 080: WITCHCRAFT.
Carole Haber
Munroe 237
T/R 10-11/ W 10-11
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Course Objectives
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This class is intended to develop -- or improve -- your writing, analytic
and oral skills. Its objectives are many:
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First, we shall examine the issue of witchcraft
and witch-hunting as a historical problem. We shall explore the numerous
theories and methods historians have employed to explain the phenomenon
of witchcraft. As we shall see, the sme story can be told numerous ways,
depending on the historian's choice of evidence, theory, and explanation.
In reading these historians, you need to examine carefully how theory and
evidence are used, and how historical arguments are created.
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Second, we shall use primary source materials that focus
on witchcraft and witch-hunting. In so doing, you will be asked to
select evidence and explanations and create your own historical explanations
of the past.
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Third, you will write (and rewrite) two short papers
that develop your writing skills. Each paper will be three to five
typed pages. It will be graded on your ability to express yourself
and your theories coherently. After each paper, you will meet with
me to go over your writing and improve your work. You will also be
asked to assess the work of classmates, and do several in-class writing
assignments.
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Fourth, the class will be based largerly on discussion,
and oral presentations, focusing on your ability to present your ideas
clearly.
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Fifth, you will be required to turn in a final research
paper of 12 of more typed papers. It have a developed thesis, and
be based on primary research. It should reflect much of what you
have learned in the class.
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Course Requirements and Policies
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Although attendance will not be taken, it is impossible
to do well in this course if you do not attend. We will have several
in-class exercises, debates, and discussions. All papers must be
turned in (in class) on the day they are due, or they will be lowered one
grade. Do not place them in the my box, or under the door.
The short papers can be rewritten. On the first paper, only the final
rewrite grade will count; on the second the grades will be averaged.
The readings will be discussed on the day they are due. All the readings
(except the Malleus) are on electronic reserve. Please run them off
and bring them to class. The Malleus can be found in reserve reading.
It too should be copied. The weeks that have conferences, we will
not have class. Please check the
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syllabus for these weeks I can be reached through the history
office, or by email, which I check regularly.
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Grading, Evaluation Policies and Procedures
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First two papers
20% each
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Classroom/library exercises
10%
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Class discussion
20%
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Final paper
30%
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Texts/Resources/Readings/Supplies
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Required Texts
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Boyer and Nissenbaum
Salem Possessed
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Karlsen, Carol
The Devil in the Shape of a Woman
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Hall, David D.
Witch-Hunting in 17th Century New England
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All articles listed can be found on electronic reserve for History 268-080
except for the Malleus. Because of size, you need to go to the reserve
room to copy it. For all others, link to electronic reserves:
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electronic
reserve
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Study Tips/Learning Resources
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There are no secrets to doing well in this course.
Very simply, come to class, read the assigned materials, turn your papers
in on time. Even if you think your paper is terrible, turn it in
so that we can work on the rewrite. You will save yourself an automatic
reduction on your paper, and it will give us material on which to work.
Don't be defensive or insulted if your papers come back with a lot of corrections.
Look at the rules we have outlined as you write. The best writers
go through numerous drafts. If you are having trouble with the major
paper, come and see me. Break it down into parts, and use an outline.
If you are truly having trouble, consult the writing center, but remember
that they will not write the paper for you. Finally, participate
in class discussion. Even if you feel that what you have to say is
not brilliant, it may lead to other insights.
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Course calendar information goes here. Course calendar information
goes here. Course calander information goes here.
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Course Calendar
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In what sequence will the content be taught? When are major assignments
due?
Course links & study guide information goes here. Course links
& study guide information goes here. Course links & study guide
information goes here.
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Texts/Resources/Readings/Supplies
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What kinds of materials will be used during the course? Electronic databases?
Electronic Course Reserve? Software? Simulations? Laboratory equipment?
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What kinds of instructional technologies will be used?
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Offer links to Bookstore, Library (Electronic Reserve)
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Study Tips/Learning Resources
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How will the student be most successful in the course? What resources are
available? Study guides, lecture notes online, on reserve in library? TA?
Peer tutors? Study groups? Academic Services Center? Writing Center? Evaluation
of online resources? Citation of web resources?
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Provide link to Academic Services Center, Writing Center
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Student feedback on instruction
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Anonymous suggestion box on the web? E-mail? Student feedback at midterm
for improvement purposes? End-of-term student feedback? Supplement to departmental
student feedback form?
