Step One:
From this site, http://www.oshermaps.org/special-map-exhibits/columbus-letter/iii-translation, copy and paste the first five paragraphs of Christopher Columbus’ Letter onto a separate Microsoft word document. If you are having trouble, please see a copy of the first five paragraphs at the very end of this handout.
Step Two:
Carefully read the five paragraphs. Keep in mind that Columbus is trying to persuade his readers to fund him. How is he trying to persuade them? What assumptions does he make about his audience?
As you are actively reading, pay attention to word choice, tone, attitude colors, situations, repetitions, objects mentioned, interactions with others, and other elements that jump at you.
Annotate the letter by inserting your insightful comments whenever you see references to words, ideas, and or situations that you find important.
Please see the video below for directions on how to insert comments in Microsoft word documents. Or, please search for other tutorials on youtube.
The comments you write will help you understand how Columbus is trying to persuade his readers and the assumptions he is making about his audience.
Please be interpreting the meaning of symbols, colors, situations, and any element you find you can make meaning out of.
Pay special attention to Columbus’ tone of voice. What does his attitude sound like?
To analyze means to break ideas apart and to put them back together in your very own unique way. Please figuratively break apart this letter by providing your own unique interpretation of his tone of voice, attitude, persuasion methods, word usage, description and color choices. They are all there for a purpose.
open the attached document for full understanding
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