Interpretation of Literature in the Context of History and Culture (Rubric)

Level

Traits

4: Excellent

Essay proposes an interpretation that puts a text (or texts) in relation to some relevant aspect of history or society as a substantial element of an argument, or uses the text as evidence to illuminate some aspect of history or society, making a skillful and intellectually complex case for its thesis in a way that draws on evidence from both within and around (i.e., historical and social facts) the text.

3: Satisfying

Essay demonstrates a competent attempt to interpret a text in relation to historical or social facts, or shows a somewhat nuanced understanding of how texts reflect or shape historical or social realities.

2: Approaching

Essay refers accurately to historical or social facts in the course of interpreting a text, or competently makes a point about history or society using a text as evidence.

1: Not Approaching

Essay makes no accurate reference, or no reference at all, to historical or social facts.