Choose TWO of the stories or poems from this semester. In two ACES paragraphs, explain how each of the selections you choose reflect something that is uniquely American.
The choices are "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne, "Self Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson
, "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, and "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost.
The first selection I chose is "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne. This story reflects something that is uniquely American in that it speaks to the idea of the American Dream. The protagonist, Goodman Brown, is a young man who is on a journey to discover the truth about his faith and his society. He is presented with a choice between the path of righteousness and the path of evil, and he ultimately chooses the path of righteousness. This reflects the idea of the American Dream, which is the belief that anyone can achieve success and happiness through hard work and dedication.
The second selection I chose is "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. This poem reflects something that is uniquely American in that it speaks to the idea of individualism. The poem is about a traveler who is presented with two paths and must choose which one to take. He ultimately chooses the path that is less traveled, which reflects the idea of individualism that is so prevalent in American culture. The poem speaks to the idea that individuals should make their own decisions and take their own paths, regardless of what society may think. This is a concept that is deeply rooted in American culture and is something that is uniquely American.
Ah, "Young Goodman Brown" and "Self Reliance"! A delightful duo indeed. Now, let me put on my clown nose and sprinkle some humor into your analysis of how these works embody the uniqueness of America.
First up, "Young Goodman Brown." This story by Nathaniel Hawthorne takes us on a journey into the dark woods of 17th-century Puritan New England. In this tale, Young Goodman Brown encounters various characters engaging in secret devilish practices. It reflects something uniquely American in its portrayal of the tension between religious piety and the hidden temptations lurking beneath the surface. It's like a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish called "The American Dilemma": we have strict moral codes on the outside, but behind closed doors, well, things can get pretty wild. Hawthorne highlights the Puritans' struggle with the contradictions inherent in American society, showing that even those who appear virtuous may have secrets lurking beneath their proper façades, just like a politician's perfectly coiffed hair.
Now, let's dive into the depths of "Self Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson, a piece that could double as the unofficial handbook for American individualism. Emerson urges his readers to trust their own instincts and cast aside societal expectations and conformity. This work exemplifies something uniquely American: our unwavering belief in the power of individualism and self-reliance. It's like telling your friends you're going to eat an entire pizza by yourself and they respond, "You go, America!" Emerson champions the American spirit of independence, arguing that one's own thoughts and ideas should be the guiding light in life. Who needs directions or a GPS when you can just walk to the beat of your own drum? It's this spirited individualism that has shaped America into the vibrant, diverse, and sometimes slightly chaotic nation it is today. We're all just marching to the beats of our own tuba, after all.
There you have it! "Young Goodman Brown" and "Self Reliance" showcase aspects of American culture through their exploration of hidden secrets within a seemingly pious society and the celebration of individuality and self-trust. Let's raise a rubber chicken leg to the wonderfully unique American tapestry woven within these works!
To explain how each of the selected stories or poems reflects something uniquely American, let's start with "Young Goodman Brown" by Nathaniel Hawthorne. This haunting tale delves into the inner conflict of its protagonist, Goodman Brown, as he confronts the harsh realities of Puritan society in colonial America. The story showcases a quintessentially American concern with the tension between morality and individualism. As Goodman Brown ventures into the dark forest to discover the truth about his fellow townspeople, he unveils the inherent complexities of human nature and questions the validity of societal standards. This exploration of moral ambiguity and the struggle for personal autonomy reflects the American value of individualism, as it challenges the strict conformity expected in Puritan society.
Now let's turn to "Self-Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson, an essay that has become a cornerstone of American literary and philosophical thought. Emerson's work epitomizes the spirit of individualism, a core aspect of the American identity. In this essay, he encourages readers to trust their own instincts and beliefs rather than relying solely on societal conventions or authorities. Emerson argues that every individual possesses a unique perspective and potential, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and self-expression. This notion of self-reliance aligns with the American principles of independence, self-determination, and the pursuit of individual freedoms. By exhorting readers to follow their own inner convictions, Emerson champions the distinctly American values of personal liberty and the imperative to forge one's own path in life.
To summarize, both "Young Goodman Brown" and "Self-Reliance" reflect something that is uniquely American. Hawthorne's story addresses the tension between morality and individualism in colonial America, epitomizing the American value of individual freedom. Meanwhile, Emerson's essay advocates for self-reliance, emphasizing the unique perspectives and potential of individuals, and embracing the American ideals of independence and personal liberty. These literary works showcase the complexities of American society, the struggle for personal autonomy, and the celebration of individualism that helped shape the American identity.