An icon is one who has had a great impact on the broader American culture. One aspect of iconicity that facilitates this impact is that the icon is symbolic; it represents more than itself. For example, Rosa Parks has come to represent the rights movement; while Gloria Steinem is an icon of feminism. Some icons represent the traditional aspects of a society and others might have an impact from challenging the status quo and forcing us to re-examine the values of our culture. Essays should be more than merely biographical papers, but should provide an in-depth exploration of the icon as a product of and influence on American culture. Your chosen icon may have enjoyed his/her heyday well before our current era, or it may continue to radiate tremors across the cultural landscape. Students who need guidance or assistance in choosing a subject for the essay assignment are encouraged to contact the Instructor.
Each research essay should be divided into 3 main sections:
• The icon’s biographical history; the significant events and incidents that shaped his/her character.
• The icon’s impact on popular culture; his/her influence on their profession, field of endeavor, others in their profession.
• The icon’s impact on American culture; what is their larger/mass significance.
Students will post their topic choice on our class Canvas site for the Instructor’s approval.
The requirements for this essay are as follows:
• Essays should be approximately 7-8 full pages (typed double spaced)
• A works cited page must be included.
• Students’ citations should conform to either MLA or APA style formats.
• A minimum of 4 sources must be used for your research.
• Wikipedia, Google, and other mass search engines are not valid for college-level essays.
• Late papers will not be accepted (unless the student provides a valid/authorized excuse).
• Completed rough drafts will be critiqued by the Instructor prior to the final due date if the student wishes to take advantage of this option.