Good Essay On Primary Sources

Dome on the Rock

The writer clearly identifies the Dome on the Rock as the subject of their paper in both the title and the opening sentence. There is also a picture of it embedded in the introductory paragraph which draws the reader’s eye immediately. The title gives the reader the sense of importance of the Dome because of its meaning to Christians, Jews and Muslims. The writer describes how the Dome is the oldest, preserved, man-made structure in Islam. In describing the structure, the writer creates interest not only in the historical value of the structure but in the unique design and embellishment of the structure.
The Works Cited page lists references that are authoritative. The references are theoretical and analytical of the structure. They are concrete in their information and not subjective. This essay is an expository essay in which the writer describes the structure and then makes inferences about the meaning of the structure. The thesis was “Yet, despite the importance of the structure in the Islamic culture, the Dome of the Rock actually weaves the three major worldly religions into one architectural phenomenon.”

The Wizard of Oz

The primary source is “The Wizard of Oz” by Frank Baum. The writer clearly states that in the opening. By focusing on the role and importance of the book and its time in American history, the importance of this book is established.
The Works Cited lists sources that all are analytical of the book, these analysis are also from different points of view such as politics and economics. This tells me this is a well-researched essay. The variety of viewpoints will help the writer analyze the story thoroughly.
The thesis statement, “In the 1900’s, L. Frank Baum’s children’s novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was one of those things defining America and American literature.” Prepares me for what to expect in this essay and the writer does describe how the story defined America during this historical period.

Writing for the Humanities

In addition to my project and writing in general, the purpose of the essay or research needs to be very clear. By creating a well written thesis statement, appropriate research can be conducted that will support the paper.