THE EUTHYPHRO
Reading: Plato, “Euthyphro” in Plato. Five Dialogues: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Meno, Phaedo. Trans.Stanley Lombardo & Karen Bell, Hackett, 1981.
Your assignment is to write a carefully constructed introductory paragraph for a critical exposition of Plato’s dialogue, the “Euthyphro”. The task of critical exegesis is two-fold: First, to explain the arguments presented by the author and second, to critically evaluate those arguments. Therefore, the introductory paragraph of such a paper should outline the main argument(s) and point to some potential weakness or strength. It should be possible to write a critical exegesis to any length requirement. Generally, a well-written introduction, for such an essay, serves two purposes: 1) it stands alone as an account of the text in your own words, and 2) it serves as an introduction to your own paper by outlining the structure and organization of your paper. This assignment requires you to write such an introduction. It is not a “complete” essay assignment.
You should strive for a clear and simple writing style. In general, try to use short and straightforward sentences rather than long or elaborate sentences. Be particularly careful not to use words of whose meaning you are uncertain and keep an eye out for technical terminology. Also remember that any evaluative remarks (for example claims that a position is strong or weak, well-founded or not) should be backed by a brief explanation — (one which could be elaborated upon in a longer paper).
Your introductory paragraph can not be more than 250 words in length, preferably typed double-spaced (normal font & margins). Assignments longer than 250 words will be penalized, assignments shorter in length will not be penalized on the grounds of length.) Late assignments will be penalized 5 points out of 100 points for each day, or part thereof, beyond the tutorial on the date due.
