1. Writing about sources: Get HAPPY!
H = Historical Context
A = Audience
P = Purpose
P = Point of View (author’s background)
Y = WHY?

2. H = Historical Context The “backstory”
What is the setting (when and where)?
What “current events” (back then) led up to the writing?
What “shout-outs” (allusions) are in the document? Why would those be included?

3. A = Audience Who did the author intend to reach?
Was the document meant to be seen, heard, read or performed? Why does that matter?
How does the author tailor the document to this audience?

4. P = Purpose
What was the author’s MOTIVATION for creating this document?
Was the author paid? By who?
Does the author use PERSUASION? Why?
What OUTCOME or GOAL is the author hoping for?

5. P = Point of View
What is the author’s background AND HOW DOES IT INFLUENCE THEIR THINKING? Things to consider include:
Age
Gender
Ethnicity and/or nationality
Social Class/Wealth
Education
Religion
Political stance
Emotional state or “baggage”
What does the author stand to GAIN from having people agree with this POV? Will they get something they want, including:
money?
power?
popularity?
social status?
happiness?
self-esteem?

6. Y = WHY?
Why does (insert what you said on HAPP) matter for our understanding?
Why does it matter for credibility? (could it be wrong? "Limitations of a document")
DO WHY FOR ALL OF YOUR COMMENTS!!!!