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Northern Essex Community College

Module 2 Writing Assignment

Review the assignment overview, learning objectives, directions, and submission expectations before submitting your work.

Overview
The Crusades are frequently referenced in discussions of Middle East–Western relations and are sometimes invoked in modern extremist rhetoric. While these medieval conflicts do not directly determine contemporary political or religious relationships, the way they are remembered, interpreted, and used in narratives can influence perceptions and grievances.
In this discussion, you will examine the role of the Crusades as a historical reference point and analyze how narratives about Christian–Muslim conflict are constructed and used in modern contexts.
Student Learning Objectives

(These objectives support the assignment and are not the questions to be answered.)

  • LO1: Examine how historical events such as the Crusades are interpreted and repurposed within modern extremist narratives (SLO1)
  • LO2: Analyze how historical framing influences perceptions, grievances, and counterterrorism communication strategies (SLO2)
Assignment Topic
  • In what ways are the Crusades commonly referenced when discussing contemporary Middle East and Western relations? Why do these historical events continue to hold symbolic meaning?
  • How have extremist groups or political actors used Crusade narratives to frame modern conflicts or justify violence?
  • Why is it inaccurate or misleading to view current Christian–Muslim relations as a continuation of Crusader era conflict?
  • From a practitioner perspective, how can understanding historical narratives and misinterpretations help counter extremist messaging and reduce the risk of oversimplified threat assessments?
Acceptable and Ethical Use of AI
  • Use AI to identify common myths or misconceptions about the Crusades and their relationship to modern conflicts. Use this information to refine your analysis, not to generate your discussion response,
  • Use AI to analyze extremist rhetoric for historical references and symbolism. Focus on understanding how narratives are constructed rather than reproducing or amplifying them.
Directions

Please read all instructions carefully before submitting your assignment.

  • Your paper should be 2-3 pages, using APA style, including 12 font and 1-inch margins.
  • A minimum of at least two (2) sources, with proper APA citations in a Reference Page and proper in-text citations.
  • Abstract NOT needed.
  • Submissions are checked against a Plagiarism Checker and AI Detector.
    • Direct quotes should not exceed 15% of the total paper.
    • AI Usage – you must use AI ethically. Papers written by an AI is cheating.
Submission Guidelines
  • Submit your assignment through the designated submission area.
  • Ensure your file is in [accepted format: Word, PDF, etc.].
  • Review the grading rubric before submitting your work.
Important Reminder

Important: All work must be your own. Follow course policies regarding academic integrity and the use of outside sources or tools.