Each of you is required to write an abstract on a topic of your choosing from our study of the polymetric poems or poems 63, 64,or 68. You may wish to explicate a single poem or you may opt for larger themes developed in several poems. Class discussions will provide you with many possibilities. The abstract (one page) with a bibliography must be submitted by November 11. You may then elect to write a six page essay, a 12 page research paper, or opt not to do a paper. Latin and Classics Majors should make this choice in light of your portfolio of 6 and 12 page papers required by the department. You are expected to use (read and cite) a minimum of three books (the relevant chapters from three books) and a similar number of articles in preparation for writing your abstract and 6 page essay. A more extensive bibliography is expected for the longer research paper. The abstract and essay/paper will receive separate grades. Remember, all ideas and words taken from your sources must be cited. The finished essay/paper is due no later than December 9 (no exceptions). Plan ahead, and do not procrastinate. You must include footnotes and a bibliography.