Undergraduate

The Humanities and Western Civilization Capstone Essay: HWC 424

Humanities and Western Civilization Majors enroll in HWC 424 during their final year in the Program. Enrollment in  HWC 424 commits the student to writing a long essay of approximately 30 pages. This essay is the culmination of undergraduate study in the Program. As such, it should develop a topic that reflects at least two humanistic disciplines. The essay may include or combine creative and analytical perspectives. Usually, it involves close reading of texts and some research activity. Even a creative essay  should incorporate some outside investigation. Students in HWC 424 work closely with the course instructor to develop a topic proposal and choose an additional faculty member as a project director.

Guidelines for the HWC Senior Essay

1. Choosing a Topic:
   
   Consider a writer, a subject, an image, an issue, a historical period, genre or culture.
   Formulate a question about this topic.
   Explore the relation of the topic to other topics.

2. Getting Started:
   
   At the beginning of the semester, identify a faculty director for the project.
   Talk with the director about the nature, scope and approach of the essay.
   Make arrangements to consult with the director on a regular basis.

3. Time Management:

   • One month into the semester: Have a thesis statement and project proposal in hand.
   • Two months into the semester: Complete research and formulate a first draft.
   • Three months into the semester: Revise  draft; prepare an oral report for HWC 424.
   • At the end of the semester—Complete revisions; submit final copies to the project director and HWC 424 instructor for grading.