this post is 292 words long

I've started my studies for architecture with the RAIC Syllabus, and one of my classes is called "Introduction To Ideas." I can't believe I have to take a class about ideas in general! I tried to get out of it, but they make it mandatory for some reason, even though I have the equivalent of a university degree in arts&science.

Anyway, all of the assignments (which we are given 2 weeks to do) require 3 essays, each 250 words long, and then another little question that requires sketching usually.

Did you catch that...250 words. That's, less than a page of writing, if it is double-spaced.

My wife thinks that makes it easy, but let's take a look at the questions they give. For instance, currently I am trying to answer these questions about medieval Europe.

Explain how the Church became the holder of political power in Medieval Europe. What was, in your view, the major factor contributing to the closing down of trade routes in the Mediterranean and what affect did this have in the geo-politics of northern Europe?

Compare the role of Myth, Knowledge and Intellect in both Islam and Christian religions at the 10th century mark. How did Islam and Christianity deal the the issues of tolerance for minorities?

Why is the strengthening of the city so important to the formation of nations, or at least, national entities? Describe a contemporary example of a Port-City whose role is crucial in defining nationhood.

C'mon!! 250 words! These could easily be 10-page essays. The very first time I answered one, I crafted my intro, then checked and it alone was 350 words, and I thought it was far too concise. The challenge really is to distill the content down to the ultra-bare-minimum.