Essay Assignments for Chapter 19
Choose one of the following topics and write a formal essay addressing the topic. A formal essay should have an introductory paragraph as well as a concluding one in addition to the body of the essay. Correct grammar should be used.
1. Eighteenth century writers poked fun at pretensions, idiocies, and follies. Find examples of modern satire and discuss the similarities/differences between modern satire and the satire of the 18th century.
2. Do some research on the personal relationship between Mozart and Haydn. Does the nature of their relationship remind you of any present-day musicians? Write a brief essay summarizing your research and making a comparison to two contemporary musicians.
3. Has the notion of “polite, civilized, conversation”—a characteristic of the Rococo period—-disappeared? Is this a good or a bad thing? Cite examples to prove your point.
4. Investigate the lives of at two of the United States “founding fathers” listed below. What were their personal lives and circumstances like? Who were they beyond the writing and political work they did in establishing the U.S.?
John Adams
Benjamin Franklin
Thomas Jefferson
Alexander Hamilton
James Madison
