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Prompt 01

Federalist No. 10 by James Madison

AP LanguageAP GovCommon Core ElaIB English

In Federalist No. 10, James Madison contends that a large republican government effectively addresses the threats posed by factions. In a well-structured essay, either defend, challenge, or qualify Madison's assertion that an extended republic — as opposed to a small, direct democracy — is better suited to manage the "mischiefs of faction" while safeguarding individual liberty and the common good.

Your essay should

  • Present a clear, defensible thesis that directly engages with Madison's argument.
  • Utilize specific evidence and reasoning from the text (e.g., Madison's definitions of faction, his distinction between democracy and republic, his discussion on the role of representatives).
  • Consider and respond to at least one counterargument to your stance.
  • Examine how Madison's rhetorical and logical strategies (such as definition, analogy, or cause-and-effect reasoning) bolster or weaken his central claim.

Suggested length

4–6 paragraphs (approximately 600–900 words) > Guiding Question to consider: Does Madison's trust in the framework of a large republic sufficiently address the ongoing impact of factions in American political life — both historically and in the present?

Prompt 02

Federalist No. 10 by James Madison

AP LanguageAP GovCommon Core ElaIB English

In Federalist No. 10, James Madison contends that a large republican government provides the best solution to the threats posed by factions. In a well-structured essay, discuss whether Madison's solution — an extended republic with a system of representation — effectively counters the risks that factions present to liberty and the common good. Your essay should:

  • Introduce Madison's definition of a faction and outline why he views it as a significant threat to republican governance.
  • Analyze the specific strategies Madison suggests to mitigate the effects of factions (such as representation, the extended republic, and a variety of interests).
  • Evaluate the strengths and/or weaknesses of Madison's argument, using evidence from the text and relevant historical or contemporary examples where applicable.
  • Conclude with a clear, defensible assertion regarding the overall effectiveness of Madison's reasoning.

Requirements

> "The latent causes of faction are thus sown in the nature of man." — James Madison, Federalist No. 10

  • Formulate a clear, arguable thesis in your introduction.
  • Back your claims with direct textual evidence and a close examination of Madison's rhetoric and logic.
  • Consider and address at least one counterargument to your stance.
  • Maintain a formal, analytical tone throughout.

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