How to Read a Primary Source

A primary source should not be skimmed for a slogan. Read it as a whole document written by a real person in a real historical moment.

Questions to Ask

• Who wrote this?
• When and where was it written?
• Who was supposed to hear or read it?
• What problem is the author trying to answer?
• What words need historical definition?
• What claims are theological, moral, political, or practical?
• What should a modern reader admire, question, or investigate further?