For this short writing assignment you will be discussing readings from Week 2, especially Martin Luther’s essay To the Christian Nobility of the German Nation and Galileo’s Letter to Duchess Christina. In these texts, both authors try to persuade their audience and to promote their controversial (at the time) views. In your paper, discuss how the authors defend and promote their views, using one or two specific examples from each text. As you discuss these readings.

Make sure to have a clear, identifiable argument (thesis) early in your paper and to support this argument with evidence from the readings in the rest of your paper. The following questions should help you brainstorm and come up with an argument: What sources of authority do Luther and Galileo use to support their ideas? What tactics do they use to win their audiences over to their side? What is at stake for Luther and Galileo? Why do Luther and Galileo need the German nobles and Duchess Christina to accept their ideas?