Sunday, December 9, 2007
Amistad (Sorry Matt and James!)
The film I have chosen to write about this week is Steven Spielberg’s Amistad (1997), it is about “an 1839 slave rebellion aboard a Spanish ship that is travelling towards the Northeast coast of America. The majority of the story focuses on the trial that took place after the ship arrived in America.” The website I have selected http://www.uni.uiuc.edu/og/arts-entertainment/2007/12/dvd-review-spielbergs-a discusses quite a personal review of what the writer feels is badly represented within the film. I found the website quite detailed, but briefly in describing the major flaws with the movie in how for example, the creation of the character Theodore Joadson (Morgan Freeman), was made up to reflect the abolitionists viewpoints of this time, even though there were many actual, real people they could have used. The website is easy to read and doesn’t get too in depth, as it is a DVD review. I think that the main flaw with the film is the negative representation of the Africans which could have been discussed at the beginning rather than at the end of the review as that is a major issue of bad representation. I think that the website offers useful facts and advise upon viewing the film to “not watch “Amistad” as a reliable display of what went on in the trial; instead, watch it cautiously and follow it up with some reading.”
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Howdy folks.
How exciting; this is our last week of blogposting....so make sure you do a good job of it, as this is contributing to 20% of your overall grade for this module!
Task for the week:
Lead poster/s: select any other movie depicting an event in American History and find a website/s or a review which engages with the accuracy of its representation. Comment on the issues raised yourself.
Others – join in the discussion and comment on the film selected.
Have fun and I'll see you on Tuesday for our final small group meeting.
Best wishes,
Devon
How exciting; this is our last week of blogposting....so make sure you do a good job of it, as this is contributing to 20% of your overall grade for this module!
Task for the week:
Lead poster/s: select any other movie depicting an event in American History and find a website/s or a review which engages with the accuracy of its representation. Comment on the issues raised yourself.
Others – join in the discussion and comment on the film selected.
Have fun and I'll see you on Tuesday for our final small group meeting.
Best wishes,
Devon
Monday, December 3, 2007
Slaves
www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia
I thought this website was really interesting, it is laid out really clearly and is not hard to navigate round. I think that this website is good because it doesn't come across as bias towards either slaves or the slave owners. It tells us the history and also gives us insite into a persons life from this era. I found the story about Prince Henry the navigator really interesting. The fact that he never acturally went on an exploration i found very surprising. The idea of the 'River of Gold' is a lovely image and i'm not surprised Henry was keen to kind it. The idea that some people would be taken back to Prince Henry not as slaves but exhibits is really interesting. It makes me think what would have happened to these people after they were presented to Henry. Most probably they became slaves, because i can't imagine they would have been sent back to Africa. I think on a whole this website gives a good idea of what was happening in history during the slave times. I think it is a helpful resourse to understanding more about the Slave Trade.
I thought this website was really interesting, it is laid out really clearly and is not hard to navigate round. I think that this website is good because it doesn't come across as bias towards either slaves or the slave owners. It tells us the history and also gives us insite into a persons life from this era. I found the story about Prince Henry the navigator really interesting. The fact that he never acturally went on an exploration i found very surprising. The idea of the 'River of Gold' is a lovely image and i'm not surprised Henry was keen to kind it. The idea that some people would be taken back to Prince Henry not as slaves but exhibits is really interesting. It makes me think what would have happened to these people after they were presented to Henry. Most probably they became slaves, because i can't imagine they would have been sent back to Africa. I think on a whole this website gives a good idea of what was happening in history during the slave times. I think it is a helpful resourse to understanding more about the Slave Trade.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
BLOG for the week:
Lead poster – Go to www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia
Write a review of this site – 30 words minimum. You should point out the strengths and weaknesses of the site. Be specific about the details of the site in your review.
All others – look at the same site and the review of it. Again by using the detail of the site say whether you agreed or disagreed with review of the lead poster. (30 words minimum)
With all best wishes,
Devon
Lead poster – Go to www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia
Write a review of this site – 30 words minimum. You should point out the strengths and weaknesses of the site. Be specific about the details of the site in your review.
All others – look at the same site and the review of it. Again by using the detail of the site say whether you agreed or disagreed with review of the lead poster. (30 words minimum)
With all best wishes,
Devon
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Nickel and Dimed
http://www.quintcareers.com/surviving_low-wage_jobs.html
I have chosen this first website because it has a consise overview of the problems facing low-wage workers today, or the "working poor". It also contained many of the things Barbara touched on in her book. The article mentions Wal-Mart but states that the problem goes beyond Wal-Mart with industries in retail, hospitality, agriculture, and education. The part I liked best about this article was that instead of just defining the problem it explained a few solutions. These solutions were aimed to help the job seeker help themselves as well and it also gave political solutions. http://www.nathanielturner.com/mythsoflowwageworkers.htm
This is also about low wage workers but addresses the truths and myths associated with them. This is a current website urging people to vote in the upcoming elections because "more and more middle-class jobs are taking on many of these same characteristics, losing the security and benefits once taken for granted." The author talks about low wage work and how it relates the American dream. I had never thought about that before, that some poeple percieve low wage jobs as stepping stones to higher positions when this, in fact, is not the reality for most. Therefore, "if you fail to move up, you must be lazy or incompetent." The author also makes a very strong point when she says that the richest country in the world should not allow such treatment of one fourth of its workers.
I wish an answer to this growing problem were simple. I wish people everywhere could be paid fairly-- enough to feed their families, enough to maintain their health, and enough to enjoy life outside the workplace.
I have chosen this first website because it has a consise overview of the problems facing low-wage workers today, or the "working poor". It also contained many of the things Barbara touched on in her book. The article mentions Wal-Mart but states that the problem goes beyond Wal-Mart with industries in retail, hospitality, agriculture, and education. The part I liked best about this article was that instead of just defining the problem it explained a few solutions. These solutions were aimed to help the job seeker help themselves as well and it also gave political solutions. http://www.nathanielturner.com/mythsoflowwageworkers.htm
This is also about low wage workers but addresses the truths and myths associated with them. This is a current website urging people to vote in the upcoming elections because "more and more middle-class jobs are taking on many of these same characteristics, losing the security and benefits once taken for granted." The author talks about low wage work and how it relates the American dream. I had never thought about that before, that some poeple percieve low wage jobs as stepping stones to higher positions when this, in fact, is not the reality for most. Therefore, "if you fail to move up, you must be lazy or incompetent." The author also makes a very strong point when she says that the richest country in the world should not allow such treatment of one fourth of its workers.
I wish an answer to this growing problem were simple. I wish people everywhere could be paid fairly-- enough to feed their families, enough to maintain their health, and enough to enjoy life outside the workplace.
Monday, November 19, 2007
American Dream
America seems to be a country built on the idea of the so called "American Dream", where people are able to achieve anything and nothing is impossible. A lot of people seem to take this very seriously and even non American long for the American Dream.
http://international.loc.gov/learn/lessons/97/dream/thedream.html
I like this web site as it links together many different documents such as the Declaration of Independence. I like the paragraph that starts to describe the modern American Dream and how it is becoming more materialistic in the sense that most people dream now days is to own a bigger house, have more money and nicer possessions. I agree with this statement and feel that not only Americans but the people all over the world are starting to lead more materialistic lives.
Wal Mart seems to be a company that many people feel typifies America. It sells huge amounts of goods at rediculously low prices. It shows how much a lot of Americans consume and waste. "Wal-Mart sold $244.5 billion worth of goods last year. It sells in three months what number-two retailer Home Depot sells in a year" This is a staggering statistic.
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/77/walmart.html
I chose this web site as it has some sexcellent facts and good points about Walmart.
Walmart isnt all bad though. Not looking at how much it wastes and encourages others to waste, it allows a lot of people to be able to provide for themselves who other wise couldnt afford to buy the basic things needed to live.
http://international.loc.gov/learn/lessons/97/dream/thedream.html
I like this web site as it links together many different documents such as the Declaration of Independence. I like the paragraph that starts to describe the modern American Dream and how it is becoming more materialistic in the sense that most people dream now days is to own a bigger house, have more money and nicer possessions. I agree with this statement and feel that not only Americans but the people all over the world are starting to lead more materialistic lives.
Wal Mart seems to be a company that many people feel typifies America. It sells huge amounts of goods at rediculously low prices. It shows how much a lot of Americans consume and waste. "Wal-Mart sold $244.5 billion worth of goods last year. It sells in three months what number-two retailer Home Depot sells in a year" This is a staggering statistic.
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/77/walmart.html
I chose this web site as it has some sexcellent facts and good points about Walmart.
Walmart isnt all bad though. Not looking at how much it wastes and encourages others to waste, it allows a lot of people to be able to provide for themselves who other wise couldnt afford to buy the basic things needed to live.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Wednesday's seminar
Wednesday’s lecture will be on the American Dream. To tie in with the work you are doing on Nickel and Dimed, in the seminars we will look at the American corporation Wal-Mart and its relationship to the contemporary version of the American Dream.
1) For the seminar please read the dialogue “Is Wal-Mart good for the American Working Class?” between Barbara Ehrenreich (no) and Jason Furman (yes)
http://www.slate.com/id/2144517/entry/2144521/
2) Please Google the terms “American Dream” + “Wal-Mart” and explore – DO NOT JUST VISIT THE FIRST PAGE OF RESULTS.
Two examples to give you an idea of what I mean in terms of length and depth:
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0827-06.htm
Monday, November 12, 2007
Freedom of the Press
Freedom of the Press
I have been looking at websites that are pro and anti ‘freedom of the press’. The first website that I have chosen has a lot of useful information about people’s right to freedom of the press. I found it very interesting in how it says about the history of punishment for someone saying or writing something considered blasphemous and offensive. As it had an example of a newspaper publisher called Matthew Lyons who was criticised for his “unbounded thirst for ridiculous pomp” and consequently given a $1000 fee. Towards the end of the article, it shows how this liberty of freedom of press has evolved with the introduction of sky digital TV and with the transformation of technology in how its monitoring and regulations have changed over the years.
I found this article an easy read, although it was rather long and thought it was very interesting in how the development of the internet means that now ALMOST anyone can say anything with someone being able to listen to your opinion from the other side of the world.
http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/rightsof/press.htm
The second article I found was very interesting, as I could not find a website that was particularly anti freedom of the press, I found this one that showed how not everyone in the world can be able to read and view particular comments on the web that are controversial or goes against their religious or political beliefs. This was quite shocking for me to read as I had no idea that the government in Saudi Arabia and Egypt could ban websites for their country to not see!
http://www.radiomundoreal.fm/rmr/?q=en/node/8783
My opinion on freedom of press is for it. I used to do media studies and got told off for writing something a little “on the edge” as my teacher called it, and I think its ridiculous that certain people are restricted to write things or say things and even to the extend not be able to view such articles that are controversial!
I have been looking at websites that are pro and anti ‘freedom of the press’. The first website that I have chosen has a lot of useful information about people’s right to freedom of the press. I found it very interesting in how it says about the history of punishment for someone saying or writing something considered blasphemous and offensive. As it had an example of a newspaper publisher called Matthew Lyons who was criticised for his “unbounded thirst for ridiculous pomp” and consequently given a $1000 fee. Towards the end of the article, it shows how this liberty of freedom of press has evolved with the introduction of sky digital TV and with the transformation of technology in how its monitoring and regulations have changed over the years.
I found this article an easy read, although it was rather long and thought it was very interesting in how the development of the internet means that now ALMOST anyone can say anything with someone being able to listen to your opinion from the other side of the world.
http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/rightsof/press.htm
The second article I found was very interesting, as I could not find a website that was particularly anti freedom of the press, I found this one that showed how not everyone in the world can be able to read and view particular comments on the web that are controversial or goes against their religious or political beliefs. This was quite shocking for me to read as I had no idea that the government in Saudi Arabia and Egypt could ban websites for their country to not see!
http://www.radiomundoreal.fm/rmr/?q=en/node/8783
My opinion on freedom of press is for it. I used to do media studies and got told off for writing something a little “on the edge” as my teacher called it, and I think its ridiculous that certain people are restricted to write things or say things and even to the extend not be able to view such articles that are controversial!
Thursday, November 8, 2007
This Week's Blog/Small Group Task
Howdy folks,
For this week, we are still talking about the Declaration of Independence/Bill of Rights to the Constitution. Here are the tasks for this week:
For the small group which follows the lecture:
Print up and bring with you copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights to the Constitution of the USA. In preparation for the meeting, research the background to these two great founding documents of America, discover what the attitude toward them is today in the US (find evidence!) and be prepared to debate their wording and their meaning.
For the Blog:
Lead poster – locate TWO websites, one pro and one anti any of the liberties identified in the first eight amendments of the Bill of Rights. Comment on how they present their case for and against, and justify which viewpoint you agree with - for instance, the death penalty, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, guns, trial by jury’ (150 -200 words)
Others – comment on the websites and state why you agree or disagree with the lead poster (100-150w)
Our lead poster this week is Christine; any questions, you know where to find me in cyberspace!
Best wishes,
Devon
For this week, we are still talking about the Declaration of Independence/Bill of Rights to the Constitution. Here are the tasks for this week:
For the small group which follows the lecture:
Print up and bring with you copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights to the Constitution of the USA. In preparation for the meeting, research the background to these two great founding documents of America, discover what the attitude toward them is today in the US (find evidence!) and be prepared to debate their wording and their meaning.
For the Blog:
Lead poster – locate TWO websites, one pro and one anti any of the liberties identified in the first eight amendments of the Bill of Rights. Comment on how they present their case for and against, and justify which viewpoint you agree with - for instance, the death penalty, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, guns, trial by jury’ (150 -200 words)
Others – comment on the websites and state why you agree or disagree with the lead poster (100-150w)
Our lead poster this week is Christine; any questions, you know where to find me in cyberspace!
Best wishes,
Devon
This Week's Blog/Small Group Task
Howdy folks,
For this week, we are still talking about the Declaration of Independence/Bill of Rights to the Constitution. Here are the tasks for this week:
For the small group which follows the lecture:
Print up and bring with you copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights to the Constitution of the USA. In preparation for the meeting, research the background to these two great founding documents of America, discover what the attitude toward them is today in the US (find evidence!) and be prepared to debate their wording and their meaning.
For the Blog:
Lead poster – locate TWO websites, one pro and one anti any of the liberties identified in the first eight amendments of the Bill of Rights. Comment on how they present their case for and against, and justify which viewpoint you agree with - for instance, the death penalty, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, guns, trial by jury’ (150 -200 words)
Others – comment on the websites and state why you agree or disagree with the lead poster (100-150w)
Our lead poster this week is Christine; any questions, you know where to find me in cyberspace!
Best wishes,
Devon
For this week, we are still talking about the Declaration of Independence/Bill of Rights to the Constitution. Here are the tasks for this week:
For the small group which follows the lecture:
Print up and bring with you copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights to the Constitution of the USA. In preparation for the meeting, research the background to these two great founding documents of America, discover what the attitude toward them is today in the US (find evidence!) and be prepared to debate their wording and their meaning.
For the Blog:
Lead poster – locate TWO websites, one pro and one anti any of the liberties identified in the first eight amendments of the Bill of Rights. Comment on how they present their case for and against, and justify which viewpoint you agree with - for instance, the death penalty, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, guns, trial by jury’ (150 -200 words)
Others – comment on the websites and state why you agree or disagree with the lead poster (100-150w)
Our lead poster this week is Christine; any questions, you know where to find me in cyberspace!
Best wishes,
Devon
Monday, November 5, 2007
Censorship
The first website which I have found relates to pro-freedom of speech. Its more the article itself than the whole website, although there are other areas which discuss the Bill of Rights and censorship. This website relates to libraries and how they interpret the idea of censorship. The article itself demonstrates how no matter what the material being put out relates to, no one is aloud to pass judgement, and they have to respect the other person’s opinion. But, the article says that librarians have to act professional and be fair, but in my opinion is that not disrupting their rights to freedom of speech? The website puts itself out in a very professional manner, signifying how they show their respect for the idea of ‘Freedom of Speech’, and how they show value to other’s beliefs.
http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/statementspols/statementsif/interpretations/diversitycollection.htm
Finding an anti-freedom of speech website was very difficult, so I found an article on a website which says how a Californian court threatened to fire Christian members of an association because of remarks they made on an advertisement. The article also demonstrates that how the 9th Circuit Court (the largest and most overturned federal court in the US) is becoming a danger to the rights of free speech due to its irresponsible uses of power.
http://www.traditionalvalues.org/modules.php?sid=3091
My own opinion on censorship is very mixed. I certainly believe that everyone has the rights to say what they please, but it seems today in society that a reaction to what others say has to be polite and respectful. But I cannot see how you can be respectful to someone who has racist, sexist or homophobic views. By all means people can let their feelings be heard, but if it causes offence, then they must expect someone to argue against them. I feel that in modern times, people are scared to put their own opinions across, letting others take advantage of their rights to free speech.
Apologies for the lateness of the Blog
http://www.ala.org/ala/oif/statementspols/statementsif/interpretations/diversitycollection.htm
Finding an anti-freedom of speech website was very difficult, so I found an article on a website which says how a Californian court threatened to fire Christian members of an association because of remarks they made on an advertisement. The article also demonstrates that how the 9th Circuit Court (the largest and most overturned federal court in the US) is becoming a danger to the rights of free speech due to its irresponsible uses of power.
http://www.traditionalvalues.org/modules.php?sid=3091
My own opinion on censorship is very mixed. I certainly believe that everyone has the rights to say what they please, but it seems today in society that a reaction to what others say has to be polite and respectful. But I cannot see how you can be respectful to someone who has racist, sexist or homophobic views. By all means people can let their feelings be heard, but if it causes offence, then they must expect someone to argue against them. I feel that in modern times, people are scared to put their own opinions across, letting others take advantage of their rights to free speech.
Apologies for the lateness of the Blog
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Hi Folks,
Just for the record, although next week is technically listed as a 'resource week', we will still be meeting up for our small group discussions on Tuesday afternoon. We will be discussing study skills amongst other topics, so be ready to discuss what you learned from the lecture/seminar task of marking the essay.
I would like to continue our blog for this week on the theme of the Amendments to the Bill of Rights; specifically that of the Freedom of Speech and how this might relate to censorship. Matt, you will be our lead poster this week (and please don't forget that you're to give your presentation as well, so please keep taking that vitamin C and drink lots of water to keep Fresher's Flu at bay!); please search out TWO websites that discuss the idea of censorship; one pro and one anti. Then, as per normal, all of us must respond to your posting with intelligent, well-considered posts that show how well we have read not only the sites Matt has chosen, but also how we feel about them. Please do ensure your posts are actually engaging with the subject! Remember, you will be marked on your participation in the blog.
I'll look forward to seeing all of you, then, on Tuesday as per normal at noon.
Best
Devon
Just for the record, although next week is technically listed as a 'resource week', we will still be meeting up for our small group discussions on Tuesday afternoon. We will be discussing study skills amongst other topics, so be ready to discuss what you learned from the lecture/seminar task of marking the essay.
I would like to continue our blog for this week on the theme of the Amendments to the Bill of Rights; specifically that of the Freedom of Speech and how this might relate to censorship. Matt, you will be our lead poster this week (and please don't forget that you're to give your presentation as well, so please keep taking that vitamin C and drink lots of water to keep Fresher's Flu at bay!); please search out TWO websites that discuss the idea of censorship; one pro and one anti. Then, as per normal, all of us must respond to your posting with intelligent, well-considered posts that show how well we have read not only the sites Matt has chosen, but also how we feel about them. Please do ensure your posts are actually engaging with the subject! Remember, you will be marked on your participation in the blog.
I'll look forward to seeing all of you, then, on Tuesday as per normal at noon.
Best
Devon
Sunday, October 28, 2007
The Bill of Rights
I've been looking on websites to try and find ones which are pro or anti one of the liberties from the Bill of Rights. The first website i have chosen is one which is promoting Religious Freedom, what i found interesting about this website is it isn't just focused on one religion, it covers many from Christianity to Islam. I found the articles on Islam interesting because of the connection that people make between muslims and terrorism. i think this website is really good, because i agree with what it's saying. I believe that everyone should have the right to believe what they want and the freedom to speak about it. Thereare many countries which don't have religious freedom, that doesn't mean that religion doesn't exist there, people find ways of practising their religion, just in secret. In Britian we're ment to have Religious Freedom, unfortunatly i don't think we completely do. We maybe able to go to church if we want, but its a bad thing when people are banned from sending Christmas cards at work incase they offend a muslim or Hindu.
http://crf.hudson.org/
The second website I have chosen is the Amnesty international page, which is a charity campaining for Human Rights. This website is very Anti the Death Penalty. It speaks of people having the right to live. No matter what someone has done nobody has the right to say that that person should be put to death. Even if someone murdered another person, by excecuting the criminal how are they better? they also will have then commited murder. when i was looking through this website i was shocked to see how many people were excecuted 2006, it made me feel horried and made me want to do something about it. The website has a petition which you can sign to abolish the death penalty. I think this website is set up very well, in someways I think it is trying to shock you into signing its petition.
http://web.amnesty.org/pages/deathpenalty-index-eng
http://crf.hudson.org/
The second website I have chosen is the Amnesty international page, which is a charity campaining for Human Rights. This website is very Anti the Death Penalty. It speaks of people having the right to live. No matter what someone has done nobody has the right to say that that person should be put to death. Even if someone murdered another person, by excecuting the criminal how are they better? they also will have then commited murder. when i was looking through this website i was shocked to see how many people were excecuted 2006, it made me feel horried and made me want to do something about it. The website has a petition which you can sign to abolish the death penalty. I think this website is set up very well, in someways I think it is trying to shock you into signing its petition.
http://web.amnesty.org/pages/deathpenalty-index-eng
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Next sessions
Week 6
Next week's lecture will be a Study Skills session; the work it leads to for the small group (in Wk 7) will likewise deal with study skills.
For the small group for the week ahead: Print up and bring with you copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights to the Constitution of the USA. In preparation for the meeting, research the background to these two great founding documents of America, discover what the attitude toward them is today in the US (find evidence!) and be prepared to debate their wording and their meaning. For the Blog for the week ahead:Lead poster – locate TWO websites, one pro and one anti any of the liberties identified in the first eight amendments of the Bill of Rights. Comment on how they present their case for and against, and justify which viewpoint you agree with - for instance, the death penalty, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, guns, trial by jury’ (150 -200 words)Others – comment on the websites and state why you agree or disagree with the lead poster (100-150w) Everyone MUST locate their viewpoint in issues and evidence. Don’t discuss abstractly or generally. Show knowledge!
Next week's lecture will be a Study Skills session; the work it leads to for the small group (in Wk 7) will likewise deal with study skills.
For the small group for the week ahead: Print up and bring with you copies of the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights to the Constitution of the USA. In preparation for the meeting, research the background to these two great founding documents of America, discover what the attitude toward them is today in the US (find evidence!) and be prepared to debate their wording and their meaning. For the Blog for the week ahead:Lead poster – locate TWO websites, one pro and one anti any of the liberties identified in the first eight amendments of the Bill of Rights. Comment on how they present their case for and against, and justify which viewpoint you agree with - for instance, the death penalty, freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of the press, guns, trial by jury’ (150 -200 words)Others – comment on the websites and state why you agree or disagree with the lead poster (100-150w) Everyone MUST locate their viewpoint in issues and evidence. Don’t discuss abstractly or generally. Show knowledge!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Howdy folks; great discussion this past week. I have very much enjoyed reading through your comments, esp on the Declaration of Independence site our poster introduced us to. I am a bit concerned that everyone is not participating in our blogged discussions, so may I just point out a few things:
1) Please do read all of the instructions! Don't forget that by tomorrow, you will need to have printed out the relevant sections of the Notes on Virginia (as assigned last week), read them, and be prepared to give us a 5-minute presentation on your particular section. We'll be giving three presentations tomorrow and three the next week (or thereabouts); I intentionally did not tell you who would be presenting each week, lest any of you avoid early preparation!
2) Presentations: the big thing to remember is to always evidence your views, by drawing attention to things in the document (or text) itself, rather than just making unsubstantiated assertions or speculations that you can't back up. Also, do remember to pay attention to the issues you have been assigned to consider--in this case, what do you think explains TJ's views at the time and how do they relate to America today?
3) Our blogging is improving slowly, but I'd still like to see longer/more engaged comments from everyone. I have been impressed in general so far at the quality of the postings (although your spelling leaves something to be desired!), but I still haven't heard from everyone.
If anyone has any questions/concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me via email and I will always try to help. If you need me to consider a draft of your upcoming written assignment, I will be happy to do so.
See you all tomorrow.
1) Please do read all of the instructions! Don't forget that by tomorrow, you will need to have printed out the relevant sections of the Notes on Virginia (as assigned last week), read them, and be prepared to give us a 5-minute presentation on your particular section. We'll be giving three presentations tomorrow and three the next week (or thereabouts); I intentionally did not tell you who would be presenting each week, lest any of you avoid early preparation!
2) Presentations: the big thing to remember is to always evidence your views, by drawing attention to things in the document (or text) itself, rather than just making unsubstantiated assertions or speculations that you can't back up. Also, do remember to pay attention to the issues you have been assigned to consider--in this case, what do you think explains TJ's views at the time and how do they relate to America today?
3) Our blogging is improving slowly, but I'd still like to see longer/more engaged comments from everyone. I have been impressed in general so far at the quality of the postings (although your spelling leaves something to be desired!), but I still haven't heard from everyone.
If anyone has any questions/concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me via email and I will always try to help. If you need me to consider a draft of your upcoming written assignment, I will be happy to do so.
See you all tomorrow.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Thomas Jefferson
I have decided to post a web site concerning the Declaration of Independence. I feel that this was one of the most important aspects of Thomas Jefferson's life as well as being one of his greatest achievements.
I feel that this web site is very useful in showing us how influential Thomas Jefferson actually was in creating this important document and exactly what parts of it he was responsible for. It also contains information about the other people involved in creating the Declaration of Independence, such as George Washington, and what they were responsible for. Also right at the bottom of the page it contains other information such as pictures. I personally like the one of Jefferson holding the Declaration of Independence at the beginning of his presidential term.
I feel that this web site is pro Jefferson. It uses phrases such as “stunning” and “defining”.
I like the way this web site is laid out, especially how is has photos of the actual Declaration of Independence. The web site has been laid out very well, there are no huge chunks of writing and it is split down into manageable sized paragraphs, which are clear and concise.
This web site was quite easy to find.
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/jefferson/jeffdec.html
I feel that this web site is very useful in showing us how influential Thomas Jefferson actually was in creating this important document and exactly what parts of it he was responsible for. It also contains information about the other people involved in creating the Declaration of Independence, such as George Washington, and what they were responsible for. Also right at the bottom of the page it contains other information such as pictures. I personally like the one of Jefferson holding the Declaration of Independence at the beginning of his presidential term.
I feel that this web site is pro Jefferson. It uses phrases such as “stunning” and “defining”.
I like the way this web site is laid out, especially how is has photos of the actual Declaration of Independence. The web site has been laid out very well, there are no huge chunks of writing and it is split down into manageable sized paragraphs, which are clear and concise.
This web site was quite easy to find.
http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/jefferson/jeffdec.html
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
The first image I have chosen is of a family farm. The interesting aspect of this seemingly normal photograph are the added images of oversized crops such as corn and cabbage. I think this depicts the American myth is the sense that things are percieved to be bigger and better. I believe Watson touches on this in his article when quotes Crevecoeur as saying "the American is... a new man". The idea that in America one can start over and anything is possible. 
The next picture is of the view from a house window. The beauty and majesty of it all conveys the message of new beginnings, abundance, and yours for the taking. Watson discusses the desire for the remote and the urge that drove many people to America as the "love of wandering".
For next time
In the group meetings and in the blog following the lecture/seminars on Wednesdays of Wk4 and Wk 5, we will study NOTES ON THE STATE OF VIRGINIA by Thomas Jefferson (1782)
Notes on the State of Virginia was written by Thomas Jefferson (a Founding Father and second President of the United States) in response to questions posed by Francois Barbes-Marbois, the French representative to the newly independent USA. There is an electronic version here (with page numbers): http://etext.virginia.edu/toc/modeng/public/JefVirg.html.
The queries made and Jefferson’s answers are revealing of what Europeans found curious about North America and what Americans knew of the new country after a century or so of settlement. Some of the answers are largely descriptive of climate or terrain, others are more interpretative about the inhabitants of America – settlers, natives and slaves – and their way of life. They give us a fascinating snapshot of the new nation.
For the small group:This week and next, each of you will make short non-assessed presentation (5-7mins) to the rest of the group about one of the following Queries from the Notes (page numbers refer to the online edition.) This will be the springboard to our general discussions.
Your presentation should briefly summarise the general points made by Jefferson, but the core of your presentation should be a critical evaluation of what Jefferson writes – how would you account for the views he holds, how do those views speak to the emerging identity of being an American, especially as the “new man” declared by De Crevecoeur? What comparisons can you see to America and Americans today?
1) Query VI (section on animals pp165-72)
2) Query VIII Population (section pp210-5)
3) Query XI Indians section (pp220-28)
4) Query XIII Constitution (section on rebellion and republics pp249-54)
5) Query XIII Laws (section on slaves pp 264-70)
6) Query XVII Religion
plus, if needed 7) Query XXII Public Revenue
PLEASE PRINT AND BRING THE RELEVANT SECTIONS FOR THAT WEEK’S SMALL GROUP.
For the Blog:First week on Notes: The lead poster will locate and post a website concerning some aspect of the life of Thomas Jefferson, analysing the source website, its opinions and how it presents its materials; other members of the group should comment both on the website and on the post, agreeing, disagreeing and elaborating on the original post. The post and the comments should be at least 150-200 words.
Second week on Notes: The lead poster will locate and post a website concerning [a topic to be decided]; other members of the group should comment both on the website and on the post, agreeing, disagreeing and elaborating on the original post. The post and the comments should be at least 150-200 words.
Notes on the State of Virginia was written by Thomas Jefferson (a Founding Father and second President of the United States) in response to questions posed by Francois Barbes-Marbois, the French representative to the newly independent USA. There is an electronic version here (with page numbers): http://etext.virginia.edu/toc/modeng/public/JefVirg.html.
The queries made and Jefferson’s answers are revealing of what Europeans found curious about North America and what Americans knew of the new country after a century or so of settlement. Some of the answers are largely descriptive of climate or terrain, others are more interpretative about the inhabitants of America – settlers, natives and slaves – and their way of life. They give us a fascinating snapshot of the new nation.
For the small group:This week and next, each of you will make short non-assessed presentation (5-7mins) to the rest of the group about one of the following Queries from the Notes (page numbers refer to the online edition.) This will be the springboard to our general discussions.
Your presentation should briefly summarise the general points made by Jefferson, but the core of your presentation should be a critical evaluation of what Jefferson writes – how would you account for the views he holds, how do those views speak to the emerging identity of being an American, especially as the “new man” declared by De Crevecoeur? What comparisons can you see to America and Americans today?
1) Query VI (section on animals pp165-72)
2) Query VIII Population (section pp210-5)
3) Query XI Indians section (pp220-28)
4) Query XIII Constitution (section on rebellion and republics pp249-54)
5) Query XIII Laws (section on slaves pp 264-70)
6) Query XVII Religion
plus, if needed 7) Query XXII Public Revenue
PLEASE PRINT AND BRING THE RELEVANT SECTIONS FOR THAT WEEK’S SMALL GROUP.
For the Blog:First week on Notes: The lead poster will locate and post a website concerning some aspect of the life of Thomas Jefferson, analysing the source website, its opinions and how it presents its materials; other members of the group should comment both on the website and on the post, agreeing, disagreeing and elaborating on the original post. The post and the comments should be at least 150-200 words.
Second week on Notes: The lead poster will locate and post a website concerning [a topic to be decided]; other members of the group should comment both on the website and on the post, agreeing, disagreeing and elaborating on the original post. The post and the comments should be at least 150-200 words.
The two images i have chosen i think depict Watsons view on the American dream. In the first picture where it shows the couple looking up to the skies, dreaming of the future with materialistic items drawn within the stars translates the American goal and myth of 'newness'. All the items are modern day technologies and represent a notion of wealth and high status with the swimming pool and big house.
In the second picture i have chosen, i think this also represents the myths of America quite well, as it has a fairly expensive maybach car shown in the middle of the photo with skyscrapers as a backdrop in new york city. The car symbolises Watsons idea of the "geography of mobility" and the big, Maybach car i believe translates this idea very well and ties into the notion of newness.
Monday, October 15, 2007
I have selected the image of Las Vegas. I feel that this sums up America, a large city with a population of almost 2 million, in the middle of the desert. It shows us how the American dream has lead people to be able to create something out of nothing and go against all reason but they manage to prevale and flurish. Las Vegas also depicts the excess and Commercialism of America. On the other extreme you have the vast deserts and open spaces that are not inhabited for hundreds of miles, and also the national parks which demonstrate the natural beauty of America. Friday, October 12, 2007
Week 3 Post
!IGNORE CAPTION AT THE TOP!
When speaking of America, the so called "American Dream" always comes up as an important topic. Watson in his article explains to us how the geography of a country is that of the dreams of the people. The image of an open road seemed very appealing, as i find it symbolises the endless amount of opportunity, to explore and to build on. This being the dreams of the original settlers, believing that they were arriving to a land which would provide a new start for them. America is a country which praises itself on the maker of dreams, and personally, i feel that the open road is the perfect symbol for this.
Monday, October 8, 2007
DeBry
Burial Ceremonies for a Chief or a Priest
This image came from the California State Long Beach website and it shows the burial mound of an important or high member of the tribe. The entire image is very interesting because it has many details, especially in the people in the foreground. Also, the village homes in the background show an aspect of their living conditions.
i think that this picture is useful in how it shows how they had their own, alternative medical ideas of how to heal the sick. Also, it illustrates that they have an awareness of the environment of what plants help cure certain illnesses, as they used "a plant which the Brazilians call petum and the Spaniards tapaco" that they dried the leaves and used it to smoke on, (as seen in the picture) which apparently cured their various infections.
From this depiction of the natives, i feel it would also scare the settlers when they saw such acts taking place. It may come across as a devilish act and further fuel their notion of them being unhuman, savages.
I found this image useful as it demonstrates how the natives lived. Its interesting to see that the closer to the centre you were situated, the greater your power, thus the chief lives in the big hut in the middle. Also, in order to protect the village, not only were great walls built surrounding the area, but guard housing was placed on the outskirts in order to sniff out enemies from miles away. This i saw was very interesting, the fact that the native's main thought in constructing their habitats was protection.
I also found this picture on that web site. I like the way that it shows us that despite all the conflict and confrentation between the "savages" and the settlers, they still find common ground over trading goods. It also shows how both sets of people are taking any oppertunities that arise. It also shows how shocking it must have been for the natives to witness the arrival of these vast ships carrying so many new inhabitants, when they are only used to small vessels such as canoes.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Week 2
I have chosen a website from the National Postal Museum in association with the Smithsonian Institution.
The page is titled Letter Writing in America and, as the title suggests, discusses early American settlers' means of communcating and the reasons behind their descriptive reports. I found these reasons to be interesting, especially the drive behind describing the New World with such enthusiasm and glory in order to satisfy their investors and reasure them that there was, infact, riches to be had.
http://www.postalmuseum.si.edu/LetterWriting/lw01.html
I found this webpage through the Smithsonian website. I chose this particular website because I know the Smithsonian is a reliable source and letter writing right now, for me, is quite interesting because I am sending letters to my family ("investors" of sorts) back home and they like to hear vivid details as well. These days, being able to use a telephone for most of that is much more convenient!
The page is titled Letter Writing in America and, as the title suggests, discusses early American settlers' means of communcating and the reasons behind their descriptive reports. I found these reasons to be interesting, especially the drive behind describing the New World with such enthusiasm and glory in order to satisfy their investors and reasure them that there was, infact, riches to be had.
http://www.postalmuseum.si.edu/LetterWriting/lw01.html
I found this webpage through the Smithsonian website. I chose this particular website because I know the Smithsonian is a reliable source and letter writing right now, for me, is quite interesting because I am sending letters to my family ("investors" of sorts) back home and they like to hear vivid details as well. These days, being able to use a telephone for most of that is much more convenient!
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Reminder of the first task
In our meeting in Week 3 (our first proper meeting where you have a task to complete) we will discuss some of the early images of America produced by Theodore De Bry. This will build on William’s lecture on early settlement and our seminar on Jamestown in Week 2.
THE SMALL GROUP TASK FOR ALL GROUPS
1) Find out about Theodore De Bry, the images he copied, engraved and published. Read the short essays on De Bry’s engravings which you can find here:
http://www.vahistorical.org/cole/gallery.htm
Pay special attention to the section “Interpreting Historical Images” as this will guide you in how to understand and comment on the images in our small group meeting
2) Browse and select ONE image, either from the above site or from this site:
http://www.csulb.edu/~aisstudy/woodcuts/
and please post it to the blog, either as a link or as an image (latter is best.)
link: just copy the http address and paste it into the blog as a new post
image: click on the picture icon at the top of the new post option and follow the instructions for adding an image from the web
3) Make sure you visit the blog in advance of our wk3 meeting to check out the images. Come to the small group ready to discuss your selection as evidence of the European encounter with the New World – what can it tell us of the native inhabitants? What can it tell us of how the inhabitants were seen by the Europeans?
THE BLOG TASK:
The Poster: search for a website which deals with any aspect or detail of early American settlement. Post a link to it, and write an explanation of how you searched, why you selected the site you did, and what you found interesting, informative and useful about it.
Others: visit the website posted, and write your own comment on the site chosen, identifying aspects of it which you found informative and useful or conversely, aspects you did not.
Your small group tutor will identify who is the poster for each week. Guidance can be found in FAQ.
THE SMALL GROUP TASK FOR ALL GROUPS
1) Find out about Theodore De Bry, the images he copied, engraved and published. Read the short essays on De Bry’s engravings which you can find here:
http://www.vahistorical.org/cole/gallery.htm
Pay special attention to the section “Interpreting Historical Images” as this will guide you in how to understand and comment on the images in our small group meeting
2) Browse and select ONE image, either from the above site or from this site:
http://www.csulb.edu/~aisstudy/woodcuts/
and please post it to the blog, either as a link or as an image (latter is best.)
link: just copy the http address and paste it into the blog as a new post
image: click on the picture icon at the top of the new post option and follow the instructions for adding an image from the web
3) Make sure you visit the blog in advance of our wk3 meeting to check out the images. Come to the small group ready to discuss your selection as evidence of the European encounter with the New World – what can it tell us of the native inhabitants? What can it tell us of how the inhabitants were seen by the Europeans?
THE BLOG TASK:
The Poster: search for a website which deals with any aspect or detail of early American settlement. Post a link to it, and write an explanation of how you searched, why you selected the site you did, and what you found interesting, informative and useful about it.
Others: visit the website posted, and write your own comment on the site chosen, identifying aspects of it which you found informative and useful or conversely, aspects you did not.
Your small group tutor will identify who is the poster for each week. Guidance can be found in FAQ.
Welcome
This is our blog. Once you are signed in, we can start the regular process of blogging, in which each week one of you posts a link to a relevant website, offering an evaluation of why you think it is useful and interesting, and the others comment - including me. I hope we can also use the blog for general postings about America too.
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