Comparative Essay Prompts

Comparative Prompt #1Western incursion was a common theme in the

years from 1750-1914. Different societies responded to the outside forces in a variety of ways. Compare and contrast the response between TWO of the following societies. Be sure to address the reaction of the native population.

China India Latin America Africa

Comparative Prompt #2Karl Marx asserted, “Religion is the opiate of the masses.” Using ONE of the religions below, compare and contrast the role religion has played in promoting or impeding societal change. Consider specific revolution, texts, and religious leaders in answering to question.

Christianity Buddhism Hinduism Islam Judaism

Comparative Prompt #3Compare and contrast the religious and social

aspects of TWO of the following Primary Phase Civilizations:

Shang & Zhou China Mesopotamia Egypt Indus/Harappans Celtic people

Comparative Prompt #4During the twentieth century, considerable effort was expended by

Western nations to support democratic and western-friendly governments in developing nations. Select TWO of the nations below and evaluate the success of such efforts. For each nation, consider the reason behind the interventionist policy, key national and world leaders involved, and whether the democratization programs have resulted in long-term political, social, and economic stability.

Iran Vietnam Nicaragua Chile Guatemala

Comparative Prompt #5

Analyze the major similarities and differences between the spread of TWO of the following religions in the time period 1000 BCE and 600 CE.

Judaism (Jewish Diaspora) Christianity Buddhism

Comparative Prompt #6Analyze the major similarities and differences of the

economic and political effects of TWO of the following social class structures from 600 to 1750 CE.

• Hindu Caste System• European Feudalism• Japanese Feudalism• Spanish American social structure• Traditional Confucian social structure

Comparative Prompt #7Compare and contrast the role of women from 1900 to

the present in TWO of the following countries. Include historical facts, specific figures, and any other factors you believe significant in shaping the role of women in the countries listed.

China Japan India Arab Middle East United States

Comparative Prompt #8Cities were an important part of the expanding world

trade in the period 600 to 1450. Discuss the major similarities and differences between TWO of the following cities, involving their economic as well as non-economic characteristics:

Guangzhou Timbuktu Venice Baghdad Constantinople

Comparative Prompt #9 Compare the roles of women in TWO of the

following religions. Consider their roles in society as influenced by their faiths, as well as the teaching of each religion.

Judaism Buddhism Islam Hinduism