Take-Home Essay 2

New South Seminar, Spring 2008

Race relations, religion, politics, and the environment have been central themes in the class readings for the second half of the semester. None is unique to the South, but the readings give them a southern cast and in some cases place them within the rubric of southern identity. Attending to the readings (Frederickson, Davis, Wilson, and Kirby (and don't forget Kirby this time)), discuss how each casts light onto southern history and culture. For example, the history of timber is not regionally specific, but Kirby illuminates much about the South in his examination of the pine tree and the industries (and more) it has historically supported in the South. What do we learn from Kirby about the pine tree, hunting, etc. that informs us about the South? Think along these lines when you contemplate the other readings.

Complete this exercise by writing a double-spaced paper NOT exceeding five pages (and using default settings for page margins). Do not write out the questions followed by answers. Instead, present your response in a single flowing narrative. Ensure you consult the Writing Mechanics exercise to avoid losing points for committing common mistakes reviewed in this exercise (I'm going to hit you history major hard this time if you fail to heed the rules in this execise). Finally, STAPLE your paper. Late papers will not be accepted. Best of luck.