As you are writing this essay, you should focus on the texts from Plato (Republic) and Niccolo Machiavelli (Prince).  Please focus on providing a clear analysis of the text, which is faithful to the language and choices made by the authors of the texts we read together as a class.  I will not tell you that you are not allowed to use external sources, but you should use credible sources (for example the Stanford Encyclopedia of PhilosophyLinks to an external site.).
Write a 5-6 page paper in response to the following questions.  Be sure to include an introductory paragraph with a clearly stated thesis, which addresses the whole argument presented in the essay.  Provide textual evidence for the claims you make about the texts.  Include citations for all information that is quoted or paraphrased from another text.  Write clearly and try to avoid typos and grammatical errors that can prevent your work from being well-understood.  Write simply and in an organized manner, remembering that while your ideas might be big, your paragraphs, sentences, and words do not need to be.  Include a conclusion that restates your major points and a works cited list that includes both course texts and any additional resources used.  
How do Plato and Machiavelli understand stories (historical and/or mythological) to be created and shared among people?
What kind of effect does each of these authors believe story-telling can have on individual thoughts and feelings?
In your opinion, which of these authors has the most to contribute to contemporary discussions about the use and abuse of influence?