Write an analytical essay of at least 900 words answering the following questions about the book: Graham Cosmas. An Army for Empire
1. Who is the author/s and what is their thesis (argument) and main points?
A thesis is a statement capable of proof. So, a statement that says, “(the author) argues Hamilton’s economic policies shifted the American economy towards a capitalist base,” is a thesis that can be proven. A statement that says, “This book is about Hamilton’s economic policies,” is not a thesis. Focus on impact and connections that the author analyzes. The introduction or preface along with the conclusion is where the author usually expresses their thesis. Also, make sure you introduce the author using their credentials.
2. What proof does the author use to support the thesis and how does it reinforce the thesis? Use two SPECIFIC examples.
Here you will analyze two specific examples of proof used by the author. So, this is a story or anecdote the author uses to prove their thesis. Think of it like a lawyer who has to prove their case in court. They have to tell the jury a story of their client’s innocence or the prosecutor has to prove the client’s guilt with a story of the crime. So tell two distinct examples of the proof used by the author.
3. What are two SPECIFIC examples of research source material used by the author and how does it strengthen the author’s thesis?
Here you will be analyzing the source material used by the author. The stories or anecdotes that you analyzed in question 2 had to come from some source (newspaper, journal, diary, government documents, another monograph, etc.). You select two used by the author, which can be found in the notes section, footnotes, or the bibliography. Pay particular attention to how the source strengthened the thesis.
4. Was the book written so that you could understand it? Give an example to support your answer.
Questions 4-7 are now really looking for your opinion of the book. For this question, you will need to analyze how you feel the book was written or organized and did it communicate to you successfully.
5. Is there a question or subtopic you wish the author had addressed or addressed in more detail? How would this question or subtopic help enhance the thesis?
Here you will need to think about key points that might have been left out of the book. How would they help the book? Do not say the author covered everything and there is nothing to add. This does not show good critical thinking skills and is not acceptable for this assignment.
6. Does this book and the textbook, The American Promise, have the same conclusion on the topic?
Here you need to compare the author’s interpretation in the book you have chosen to similar material in the textbook. Do the textbook and your author agree? Why or why not?
7. Would you recommend the book to another student or a teacher? Why or why not?
This question should wrap up your analysis with your personal recommendation.
In all, your essay should be at least 7 paragraphs addressing these 7 questions.
