I have an essay to write based on this question, but I'm unsure of exactly what it wants me to analyze/write about:
More than one hundred years ago, a writer for the Atlantic Monthly confronted an issue that is still timely. Read the following essay carefully. Then write an essay in which you analyze the nature of the writer's arguments and evaluate their validity for our own time.
Basically, the article is about censorship with books, statues, etc.
I am unsure if it wants me to write purely on the author's (of the lecture) point of view and what they specifically think or if I'm to nitpick details in their writing, or something.
However, I feel like I am supposed to formulate my own opinion based on the information given to me by the writer and then reflect on the writer's stance based on my own opinion.
It seems you are to react to the author's arguments. Are they logical, defensible, arguments, or do they not really make sense to you? Then give your opinion about whether those arguments still apply in our own time. Since I have not seen the essay, I will assume that he was arguing against censorship of books, art, etc. The arguments FOR censorship are still being made. Every year someone tries to get books banned from libraries and schools for some reason. They depict sex acts that people disapprove of, they are interpreted as racist, they discuss violent crime, or something that somebody thinks no one should read about or see. As to your essay, did the author of the magazine essay convince you of his point of view or not? Why? How does his advice apply today (or doesn't it)?
I don't know why this isn't showing up on the main screen, but be sure to read Reed's reply above -- or below:
It seems you are to react to the author's arguments. Are they logical, defensible, arguments, or do they not really make sense to you? Then give your opinion about whether those arguments still apply in our own time. Since I have not seen the essay, I will assume that he was arguing against censorship of books, art, etc. The arguments FOR censorship are still being made. Every year someone tries to get books banned from libraries and schools for some reason. They depict sex acts that people disapprove of, they are interpreted as racist, they discuss violent crime, or something that somebody thinks no one should read about or see. As to your essay, did the author of the magazine essay convince you of his point of view or not? Why? How does his advice apply today (or doesn't it)?
Ok, that helps me a lot, thank you!
The awkward thing was that the writer never actually gave a "definite opinion." He did vouch for some books being secluded (which I personally agree with) and drawing a parallel between how we should publicly treat the books and statues. He concluded by saying the final vote was purely up to the public.
So, I guess I'll revolve my essay around those points.
Well, does he make the case that the public should decide such things? Are you convinced? Why? Does his conclusion apply today? Why? And let me ask, how would the public make a decision? One complaint? Two? A dozen? A public vote on whether or not a specific book belongs in the library or a statue belongs in the museum? If someone complains of a picture of The Apollo Belevedere (in the Vatican collection) because the figure is a male, should the Vatican remove the statue, which is recognized as a work of superb art? Who decides these things? Who is "the public". Think about it!
did you ever get it?
This is even tough for me back then I was terrible at writing essay's so sorry but I can not help you.
Based on the information you provided, it seems that the question is asking you to analyze the arguments presented by the writer in the essay about censorship and evaluate their relevance in the present day.
To approach this task, follow these steps:
1. Read the essay carefully: Begin by reading the essay thoroughly, paying close attention to the arguments the writer presents and the examples they use to support their points. Take note of their main ideas, key arguments, and any evidence or examples they provide.
2. Identify the nature of the arguments: Analyze the writer's arguments and consider their nature. Are they persuasive? Are they based on logical reasoning? Do they rely on emotional appeals? Look for any patterns or recurring themes in their arguments.
3. Evaluate the validity of the arguments: Now it's time to evaluate the validity of the writer's arguments for our own time. Consider the relevance of the issues they discuss in today's society. Are the arguments still timely and applicable, or have societal values and circumstances changed? Think about how censorship is understood and practiced today compared to a hundred years ago, and reflect on any similarities or differences.
4. Formulate your own opinion: It is important to formulate your own opinion based on the information given by the writer. Consider whether you agree or disagree with their arguments and the reasons for your stance. Support your opinion with evidence or examples from your own knowledge and observations.
5. Reflect on the writer's stance: Finally, reflect on the writer's position based on your own opinion. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their arguments, considering how well they support their views. Discuss whether their arguments still hold validity in the present day or if there are alternative perspectives to consider.
Remember to structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In the introduction, briefly introduce the writer and their main arguments. In the body paragraphs, analyze the writer's arguments and evaluate their validity, while also presenting and supporting your own opinion. In the conclusion, summarize your analysis and evaluation, and provide a final reflection on the writer's stance.