Tutor profile: Erika H.

How should a thesis statement be used in an essay?

A thesis statement should not be limited to only the introductory paragraph. The thesis statement is the framework of your argument, so it must be weaved throughout the entire essay. It should constantly be referred back to in order to write persuasively. It's important that the thesis is not abandoned in the introduction in order for the essay to have logical flow as well.

How does the Calvinist notion of predestination affect Doctor Faustus' decision making?

In Marlowe’s play Doctor Faustus, Faustus finds certainty through a deal with the Devil. During the era Marlowe wrote this play, the English Reformation challenged prevailing opinions about religion, and a strict form of Protestantism that gained popularity was Calvinism. An important tenet of Calvinism is the idea of predestination; or that whether you will go to Heaven or Hell has already been determined by God at birth. Faustus struggles with this question if God can save him or not; or if he has always been damned. This uncertainty leaves Faustus frustrated and we can see his search for answers throughout the play. A contract with the Devil is a tempting substitute for answers Faustus desires so much. Is repentance is the key to salvation? Calvinism says we have no control over this. As Faustus has no guarantee over his soul, he turns down opportunities to repent black magic. This frustration is foundational to why demonic displays of power and riches are so effective.

How did the Cold War influence the Civil Rights Movement?

The blatant inequality in America made the claim that America was the leader of “The Free World” clearly hypocritical around the world. In response, Truman organized a special committee to report on Civil Rights and signed an executive order to desegregate the military. This helped organization such as the NAACP gain Supreme Court wins, such as Brown v. Board of Education.