Assignment -

I. Reading Comprehension: Read the following passage from Andrew Carnegie's 1889 essay, "Wealth."

The problem of our age is the proper administration of wealth, so that the ties of brotherhood may still bind together the rich and poor in harmonious relationship. The conditions of human life have not only been changed, but revolutionized, within the past few hundred years. In former days there was little difference between the dwelling, dress, food, and environment of the chief and those of his retainers. The Indians are to­day where civilized man then was. When visiting the Sioux, I was led to the wigwam of the chief. It was just like the others in external appearance, and even within the difference was trifling between it and those of the poorest of his braves. The contrast between the palace of the millionaire and the cottage of the laborer with us to­day measures the change which has come with civilization.

This change, however, is not to be deplored, but welcomed as highly beneficial. It is well, nay, essential for the progress of the race, that the houses of some should be homes for all that is highest and best in literature and the arts, and for all the refinements of civilization, rather than that none should be so. Much better this great irregularity than universal squalor. Without wealth there can be no Maecenas [one who, like the ancient Roman by that name, is a cultural benefactor]. The "good old times" were not good old times. Neither master nor servant was as well situated then as to­day. A relapse to old conditions would be disastrous to both ­ not the least so to him who serves ­ and would sweep away civilization with it. But whether the change be for good or ill, it is upon us, beyond our power to alter, and therefore to be accepted and made the best of. It is waste of time to criticize the inevitable.

II. Essay Instructions:

Do you agree or disagree with Carnegie's claims about the effects of wealth on civilization? Summarize Carnegie's argument and state your position on it; be sure to support your position with specific evidence from the passage and from your own experience and/or observations.

Your essay should consist of 3­4 substantial paragraphs. It will be evaluated primarily on the basis of clarity and persuasiveness. As readers evaluate the essay, they will consider the following questions:

Are sentences clear, concise, and grammatically correct? Are claims supported by specific evidence? Does each new paragraph present a new point that is related to your central argument? Is the discussion focused and organized?

We recommend that you review your work with these instructions in mind after you have completed the essay and before you submit it.