Research Paper

The paper invites you to explore in greater depth some aspect of Jewish-Christian relations. These are some suggested possible topics, but you are welcome to write on any aspect of Jewish-Christian relations that interests you.

Regardless of topic, your paper should be focused and narrowly conceived. What is more important is depth than breadth in your critical analysis of primary and secondary materials.

•differing interpretations of Scripture among Jews and Christians

•importance of Christian Scripture in Christian attitudes towards Jews and Judaism

•Jewish views of Jesus

•demonization of the Jews in Medieval Europe (e.g., blood libel, Black Death)

•specific events: e.g., Crusades, expulsions, Dreyfus affair

•contributions of Christian theology to the Holocaust

•problems and possibilities in contemporary Jewish-Christian dialogue

•theological understandings of the other (e.g., specific writer or synthetic treatment)

•representations of Jews in art and literature

All work is due by in class or by 12:00 on the dates indicated below. Points will be deducted for papers submitted after the deadline. With extenuating circumstances (e.g., illness) we will accept late papers. To request an extension you must indicate so in writing and include an indication that work has commenced on the assignment.

Please observe the following conventions when submitting papers.

•use regular margins and 12-point, Time Roman font

•include page numbers

•citations may appear as footnotes, endnotes, or parenthetical form. Whichever format you choose, follow it correctly and consistently

•include a bibliography using a correct citation format (e.g., MLA, Chicago)

Research assistance is available from the staff at the Library, in addition to the suggested online sources on the syllabus (see below).

The final research paper should be 10-12 page (double-spaced) pages in length, and should employ an standard method of citations, such as footnotes, endnotes, or parenthetical citations. The paper should also include a full bibliography.

The paper will be graded according to the following criteria:

1.Topic: The paper identifies a topic that is focused and manageable. While you may want to provide some general or background information, but the majority of the paper should focus on the particular topic.

2.Sources: The paper reflects an awareness, proper understanding, and appropriate use of the relevant primary (e.g., ancient texts, artifacts) and secondary (e.g., scholarly articles and books) sources.

This is an academic paper that should reflect an understanding of academic discussions. While the internet contains many sites that provide basic information, good analysis usually takes place in journal articles, books, and other scholarly writings.

3.Analysis: The paper develops insightful arguments based on the interpretation of the sources. Present a clear argument or point of view that seeks not only to describe but to persuade based on an explanation of the evidence.

4.Style: The paper conforms to proper rules of grammar, syntax, punctuation, and formatting (e.g., using page numbers). Proofread your paper.