Welcome to the world of transformative literature! In this assignment, you will have the opportunity to
engage deeply with a single transformative text chosen from a curated list. The purpose of this
assignment is to immerse yourself in its themes and ideas. By the end of this assignment, you may gain
a deeper understanding of the text’s impact on your own experience and how it relates to the broader
themes of personal responsibility, empathy, and cultural diversity which are key components of being a
Maritime Professional.
Step 1: Text Selection
Begin by selecting one text from the list of transformative works provided to you. The text should
resonate with you, pique your interest, or challenge your existing beliefs.
Step 2: Reading and Annotation
Read your chosen text, take notes, and make annotations as you go along. Pay close attention to
moments within the text that align with the following criteria:
Transformation. Identify instances where the characters or ideas within the text undergo
significant transformation. How do these transformations affect the story, and what broader
lessons can be drawn from them?
Responsibility and Community. Reflect on how the text addresses personal responsibility and
communal living. Are there characters or situations that illuminate these themes?
Power of Literacy, Art, or Education. How does the text exhibit the transformative power of
literacy, art, or education? What role do these elements play in the story’s development?
Empathy and Engagement. Examine how the text encourages empathetic engagement with its
characters or subjects. In what ways does the text foster a sense of connection with others?
Storytelling and Creativity. Analyze how storytelling, invention, and creativity are portrayed
in the text. How do these aspects contribute to the overall message of the work?
Challenging Accepted Norms. Explore moments in the text that challenge accepted norms or
provoke readers to rethink what is considered natural and obvious.
Maritime and Ecological Relevance. If applicable, relate the text to the maritime-related fields
you may be pursuing. How does the text cultivate ethical commitments to the greater good and
encourage contemplation of our place in history and the natural world?
Diversity and Cultural Values. Discuss how the text introduces and respects diverse cultural
values. Does it shed light on the importance of cultural diversity in your future work?
Step 3: Reflection and Analysis (300 words)
Using no less than 300 words that addresses the following questions:
Question #1: How did your chosen text meet the criteria set for transformative works? Be
specific in your analysis.
Question #2: What personal insights or transformations did you experience as a result of
reading this text? Did it challenge your thinking or provide you with a new perspective on
certain issues?
Question #3: How does the text relate to your own aspirations in the maritime-related field or
your broader understanding of the world?
Step 4: Summary (200 words)
Using no less than 200 words that summarize your analysis and reflection on the chosen text. You may
use visual aids, quotes from the text, or examples to enhance your presentation.
Step 5: Shipboard or Peer Discussion
Participate in a shipboard or peer discussion where you will have the opportunity to share your findings
and engage with your shimates’ or peers’ perspectives on their chosen texts. Write a brief statement ( 500 words total. You
must include Steps 3-5 within the essay
