For this paper, you may choose one of the following options:
1) Imagine that you are a documentary film maker. For your next project, you need to film a work of art or architecture related to Eurasian empires. What example would you select? Why? What aspect of the work would you focus on? How would you introduce your selection to a general audience who may have little knowledge about this artwork or monument? Discuss giving specific visual and historical details about the work.
2) Imagine that you are film or TV critic who writes for the arts section of a newspaper or journal. Write about a documentary or historical film / TV series that you have seen related to the themes of the course. What is interesting about this production? How is the historical period in question portrayed? Do you find it successful or not, especially in terms of the visuals and historical context? Why/why not? Discuss providing specific examples.
When writing your papers keep the following in mind:
- In your evaluations, please do not give a summary but demonstrate your own powers of observation and critical analysis. I am more interested in your ideas as long as you make sure to discuss the artwork/architecture (for number 1) or describe certain critical scenes (number
2) to illustrate and support your ideas. You are also encouraged to discuss the historical context.
Format:
• These papers should be 600-900 words, use regular margins and should be written in a regular 12-point font like Times New Roman.
• Make sure to correctly spell the names of artwork, monuments, TV series etc. As is proper practice in the humanities, spell out “eighteenth” century, “nineteenth” century etc.
• Don’t forget to proof-read your text before turning it in!
• Provide proper citations for any books, articles, websites or any other resources that you consult. Always make sure to paraphrase what you read (i.e. do not copy and paste).
Sample Solution