Name: Class Period:
OMAM - The Evolution of the American Dream
Instructions: For this assignment, you will be comparing and contrasting how the American Dream has evolved (or not evolved) since Steinbeck wrote Of Mice and Men. We will be focusing on the American Dream for African Americans and the unique challenges they have to overcome. First, you will select to read either “Letter to My Son” by Ta-Nahisi Coates or “A Letter to My Nephew” by James Baldwin. Once you have read and selected the essay of your choice, you will answer the following questions. Each answer should be multiple sentences.
1. What is Coates or Baldwin saying about the American Dream? 2. What techniques does he use to convey his idea? (These can be stylistic, literary, or even how they include emotional appeals). 3. How is his message similar to/different from Steinbeck’s message? 4. Do you agree or disagree with the author’s view? Do you see this reflected in your own community or life?