Paper 1: The American Dream: Reality or Dream

WE BEGAN OUR EXPLORATION OF "THE AMERICAN DREAM" WITH THE FOLLOWING DEFINITION: James Truslow Adams first used the term "American Dream" in his 1931 book, The Epic of America. He states: "The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement. It is a difficult dream for the European upper classes to interpret adequately, and too many of us ourselves have grown weary and mistrustful of it. It is not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position" (214-215).

Assignment:

With James Truslow Adam's definition as a starting point for your analysis, we will re-examine some of the key topics we discussed throughout the unit. Choose one of the questions below to answer in essay format. You may use your notes, novels, handouts, etc. to help you build your analysis. Consider the various categories (social, educational, economic, political, religious) to guide your analysis and organization.

Essay Topics: Choose ONE of the following writing prompts.

QUESTION 1: DEFINITION. When our society talks about "The American Dream," what do we mean? What are the key aspects of the American Dream today and where did they come from? How is this definition reflected in the various texts we have read and discussed in class? Use at least three texts to support your ideas.

QUESTION 2: OBSTACLES. As we have seen in our various texts, not everyone achieves the American Dream, making it more a dream than a reality. What are some of today's obstacles to achieving the American Dream? Which groups of people have or have had trouble attaining "The American Dream"? Why? Use at least three texts to support your ideas.