University of South Carolina Columbia Monsters in History Essay

Indigenous and settler-colonial societies in the Americas (Spanish, British, French) created new ideas and taxonomies of the world around them drawn from the geographies, environments, and peoples of the region. For settler-colonial societies, evolving ideas sometimes diverged from those of early modern Europe, while other times, ideas of monstrosity and the monstrous were reminiscent of old philosophies. For indigenous and enslaved societies, ideas adapted to the new world order. Discuss the ways in which colonialism shaped newly emerging philosophies of monstrosity and the monstrous. How are the “witches” and “zombies” we have discussed an outgrowth of the historical processes of colonialism and slavery? This critical response essay is an opportunity for you to reflect on and analyze the key concepts and ideas we have discussed thus far. Papers should be 4-5 double spaced pages in length, typed, with twelve-point font and one-inch margins. Proper footnote citations in Chicago (“Notes and Bibliography” style, are required. You do not need to submit a separate bibliography). Please note that there should be no outside research for these essays. Mechanics: All papers must be thesis-driven, meaning that your papers should provide an argument in relation to the writing prompt that is supported by examples from the readings, notes, and visual material as appropriate. (When citing concepts or lectures from our class, please do so by referencing the title of the class and the lecture date). Papers should be titled and in proper essay format that includes an introduction and conclusion.