The goal of this assignment is to
assess the controversy over one of the books for the course, I, Rigoberta
Menchu. The controversy began when anthropologist David Stoll's
book, I, Rigoberta Menchu and the Story of All Poor Guatemalans,
called into question the validity of Menchu's account. In December
1998 the national media picked up the story, setting off a storm of debate
about Rigoberta's book and its political motivations. This assignment
asks you to consider the arguments made by those who criticize and those
who defend her account.
FOLLOW THESE STEPS:
Assess the different arguments involved in the controversy
over Menchu's "testimonial." Which argument do you find more persuasive
and why? Answer in 250-500 words; either send your response via e-mail
to the instructor or bring a printed copy to class.