Informal Writing #4

In a commentary of at least one but not more than two pages double-spaced, in 12 pt. Times Roman or Courier font analyze the source of your choice (Interlude 1, p. 22 or Interlude 2, p. 52) from Kris Lane's Quito 1599 by following the steps outlined below, all of which are explained in From Reliable Sources, pp. 17-22, 43-68.

1. Determine whether the source is an artifact or a testimonial source.

2. Determine whether the source is intentional, unintentional, or both and state (briefly) why.

3. Does the source provide direct information and if so concerning what.

4. Classify the source as a narrative/literary; diplomatic/juridical; or social document; note well you must choose one.  Justify your choice using evidence from the document.

5. Identify which of the historians tools listed on pp. 43-56 of From Reliable Sources would be necessary or useful in preparing the source for use, locating it in time and place, and authenticating it and explain (briefly) why.

6. Determine (to the best of your ability)  whether the document is an original or a copy; where, how, and by whom the source was produced; on what authority the creator of the document bases his statements; how reliable the views of the document's creator might be; and the primary meaning of the document.
 

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