This essay asks you to compare and contrast two key theorists’ views on the supernatural and then to use these views to interpret a specific supernatural phenomenon.

Below is a list of seven individuals who have signicantly influenced how scholars think about religion and the supernatural. Choose TWO of these figures, compare and constrast their approaches to the supernatural and then choose a case study to demonstrate how each scholar might interpret belief in the supernatural in a particular context.

1. Carl Jung

2. Sigmund Freud

3. Clifford Geertz

4. E.E. Evans Pritchard

5. Émile Durkheim

6. E.B. Tylor

7. Mircea Eliade

The choice of case study is up to you. I have given a few broad examples below – you may choose to pick either a broad case study such as ‘witchcraft’ or be more specific such as ‘the Lancashire witches of 1612’. If you choose a broad topic you will need to ensure that your analysis is still tightly constructed and not vague or overly broad. Sometimes choosing a specific topic can make your own work more precise.

Examples include:

Demonic possession (either a specific case, or more broadly)

Witchcraft (either a specific trial, pamphlet, accusation, or in a specific country or geographical region, or more broadly)

Vampires (in the 1730s)

Etc.

So you could, for example, write an essay comparing and contrasting Freud and Geertz’s views on the supernatural in general and then use your understanding of their views to demonstrate how they might interpret belief in witchcraft (either in general, or in a particular instance).

All sources must be referenced using Chicago style footnotes. In-text citations are not allowed. Please refer to the links under ‘Assessment’ for instructions on how to use Chicago style footnotes.

Criteria and Marking

Your essay will be assessed according to the following criteria:

1. Ability to construct a well-reasoned argument.

2. Depth and breadth of understanding of central issues.

3. Ability to form a well-structured essay.

4. Engagement with academic sources and evidence.

5. Insight and/or creativity in interpreting texts or constructing a point of view or argument.

6. Capacity to produce a coherent and well-written essay using correct grammar and syntax.

7. Appropriately referenced, as per discipline conventions.

– 5 sources: 2 for each person (primary + secondary), 1 for case study
– Chicago style footnotes and bibliography
– choose specific case study for more detail