The Devil Baby at Hull-House

• by JANE ADDAMS
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: https://mn.gov/mnddc/parallels2/pdf/10s/11/11-the-handicapped-bourne.pdf

In "The Devil Baby at Hull-House," Jane Addams offers a compelling reflection on the intersection of superstition, poverty, and immigration in American society at the turn of the 20th century. The essay tells the story of a poor immigrant family who believe that their newborn baby is possessed by the devil, and the ways in which this belief highlights the profound challenges facing new immigrants in America.

Addams begins the essay by describing the arrival of the distressed family at Hull-House, the settlement house in Chicago that she co-founded. The family is convinced that their baby is a devil, and they are seeking help to exorcise the evil spirit. Addams reflects on the cultural divide between the educated, middle-class staff at Hull-House and the poor, uneducated immigrant family. She notes that the family's belief in the devil baby is rooted in superstition, but that this belief is also a reflection of the profound isolation and marginalization that many new immigrants experienced in America.

Addams argues that the story of the devil baby is emblematic of the broader challenges facing new immigrants in America at the time. She notes that many immigrants came to America in search of a better life, but that they often found themselves living in squalid conditions with little support or resources. Addams suggests that the lack of social support for immigrants created a fertile ground for superstition and irrational beliefs to take root, and that this further contributed to their marginalization and isolation.

The essay also reflects on the role of Hull-House in helping to address the challenges facing new immigrants. Addams describes the efforts of the staff at Hull-House to provide social services, education, and support to new immigrants, and notes that these efforts were essential in helping to bridge the cultural divide between immigrants and the broader American society.

In conclusion, "The Devil Baby at Hull-House" is a powerful essay that offers a poignant reflection on the intersection of superstition, poverty, and immigration in American society at the turn of the 20th century. The essay highlights the challenges facing new immigrants in America, and the ways in which social support and cultural understanding can help to bridge the divide between immigrants and the broader American society. Addams' essay serves as a call to action for all members of society to work towards greater empathy, understanding, and support for those who are marginalized and isolated.

Coatesville

• by JOHN JAY CHAPMAN
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: https://global.oup.com/us/companion.websites/fdscontent/uscompanion/us/static/companion.websites/9780199338863/whittington_updata/ch_8_chapman_coatesville.pdf

In his essay "Coatesville," John Jay Chapman offers a scathing indictment of American society's pervasive racism and prejudice. Chapman uses the brutal lynching of a black man in Coatesville, Pennsylvania in 1911 as a stark example of this deeply ingrained bigotry. The essay explores the ways in which racism and prejudice have led to a flawed justice system and an unjust society.

Chapman condemns the mob lynching of Zachariah Walker, the black man accused of killing a white steelworker in Coatesville. He characterizes the act as barbaric and cowardly, noting that the lynching was carried out by a white mob in the presence of cheering crowds. The lynching is a clear example of the systemic racism and prejudice that existed in American society at the time, and Chapman argues that it was a symptom of a larger problem.

Chapman suggests that the lynching in Coatesville was a result of the deeply ingrained racism that was prevalent in American society at the time. He notes that this racism was not limited to the white mobs that carried out the lynching, but was also present in the justice system that failed to protect the rights of the accused. Chapman argues that this failure of justice is a result of a system that is built on racism and prejudice.

The essay is also critical of American society's inability to empathize with those from different races and backgrounds. Chapman argues that empathy and understanding are essential components in the fight against racism and prejudice. Without a willingness to understand the experiences of others, Chapman suggests, society is doomed to continue the cycle of racism and bigotry.

In conclusion, "Coatesville" by John Jay Chapman is a powerful essay that offers a searing critique of American society's systemic racism and prejudice. The essay serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of racism and bigotry in American society and the urgent need for reforms to create a more just and equitable society. Chapman's essay is a call to action for all members of society to work towards greater empathy, understanding, and justice for all.

The Handicapped

• by RANDOLPH BOURNE
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: https://mn.gov/mnddc/parallels2/pdf/10s/11/11-the-handicapped-bourne.pdf

Essay Review: "The Handicapped" by RANDOLPH BOURNE

Randolph Bourne's "The Handicapped" is a profound and insightful essay that sheds light on the realities of disabled people in American culture. Bourne examines the cultural views regarding disability and the ways in which these perceptions have perpetuated discrimination and exclusion in his essay. The essay is a demand for not only social justice and equality, but also empathy, tolerance, and understanding in the face of difference.

The basic premise of Bourne's argument is that disabled people have been ostracized and alienated from American society owing to their perceived peculiarities. He notes that this exclusion is not only unjust but also weakens the democratic principles and societal values of the United States. Bourne contends that cultural attitudes toward disability are rooted in fear and ignorance and that these beliefs have perpetuated a cycle of exclusion and discrimination that has reduced the chances and potential of disabled individuals.

Bourne gives a deep and nuanced analysis of the social, political, and economic elements that have contributed to the marginalization of disabled individuals in order to support his position. He considers the effects of industrialization, urbanization, and immigration on American society, as well as the ramifications of these developments for disabled people. He argues that the growth of industrialization caused a shift from an agrarian to an industrial economy, resulting in a movement from rural to urban areas. This migration helped in the development of new forms of work and the rise of cities, but it also led to the marginalization of disabled individuals.

Bourne contends that discrimination and exclusion have also been fostered by medical and institutional institutions. By defining disability in medical terms and emphasizing its medicalization, the medical establishment has contributed to the marginalization of disabled individuals, he argues. In addition to perpetuating prejudice, the institutional system has created hurdles to admittance for disabled individuals and restricted their prospects for progress. Bourne says that the confluence of these causes has resulted in disabled people being denied equal opportunities and subjected to prejudice and discrimination.

Bourne presents a philosophical viewpoint on the significance of empathy, tolerance, and understanding in the face of difference, in addition to his consideration of social, political, and economic issues. He contends that these ideals are crucial for promoting social justice and equality and for fostering a more inclusive and tolerant society. Bourne argues that disabled people have a unique perspective on the world and that their experiences can contribute to the enrichment of American society.

Bourne also considers the future consequences of his argument. Promoting social justice and equality in the face of diversity, he says, will necessitate a substantial adjustment in cultural attitudes on disability. He notes that this transformation will necessitate a deeper comprehension of the experiences of disabled individuals and a stronger commitment to supporting social justice and equality. This transformation, he contends, will necessitate a deeper recognition of the value of difference and a stronger emphasis on empathy, tolerance, and understanding in the face of difference.

The end of Randolph Bourne's essay "The Handicapped" is a strong and thought-provoking reflection on the lives of disabled people in American society. The essay is a call to action for a more inclusive and tolerant society through its smart analysis and strong criticism. This essay is a significant addition to disability studies, philosophy, and American studies, and it remains required reading for scholars and students interested in these topics. The essay's message remains relevant and serves as a reminder of the significance of supporting social justice and equality in the face of diversity. The essay is a tribute to the power of language to inspire change, and it remains a potent call to action for all those who believe in the necessity of establishing a more inclusive and just society.

It is essential to keep in mind that the topics raised in "The Handicapped" are still pertinent today. Despite advancements in the field of disability rights, discrimination, and exclusion continue to exist. It is our duty to continue the work begun by Bourne and to strive for a society in which all people, regardless of their ability, are treated with decency and respect. This can be accomplished by education and awareness-raising campaigns, as well as by advocating for policies and regulations that promote equality and inclusion.

In conclusion, Randolph Bourne's "The Handicapped" is a timeless essay that urges us to reevaluate our views toward disability and to work to create a more inclusive society. It serves as a reminder of the significance of fostering empathy, tolerance, and understanding in the face of diversity. It is our duty to continue the job that Bourne began by advocating social justice and equality for all individuals, regardless of their ability, since the essay is a forceful call to action.

The Moral Equivalent of War

• by WILLIAM JAMES
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: https://brocku.ca/MeadProject/James/James_1911_11.html

Essay Review: "The Moral Equivalent of War" by WILLIAM JAMES

William James's "The Moral Equivalent of War" is a significant essay that examines the issues confronting American society in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. James, a prominent philosopher and psychologist, offers a unique viewpoint on the tensions between individuality and collectivism in American society, as well as the future ramifications of these tensions. Through his analytical analysis, he presents a commentary on the significance of finding a moral equivalent to war in order to solve these difficulties and maintain American democracy.

"The Moral Equivalent of War" is, at its core, a reflection on citizenship and the role of the individual in society. James contends that the American society of his time was characterized by an individualism that was destroying the civic duty and responsibility required for a functioning democracy. The difficulties facing American society, such as economic disparity and political divisiveness, necessitated a communal reaction that would channel the energy and excitement of the American people in a constructive direction, he says.

In order to support his position, James gives a detailed examination of the issues facing American society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He muses on the impact of industrialization, urbanization, and immigration on American society and the consequences of these developments for the future. James gives a distinct viewpoint on the significance of establishing a moral equivalent to war in order to solve these issues and sustain American democracy through this research.

Additionally notable are the essay's historical and cultural themes. James delivers a vivid and entertaining description of the cultural and political environment of his day and muses on how these influences created American society and character. Through this perspective, James delivers a fascinating commentary on the role of cultural and political factors in molding American society and the need of sustaining American democracy.

In conclusion, William James's "The Moral Equivalent of War" is a thought-provoking essay that examines the issues facing American society in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Through its astute analysis, the essay presents a distinct viewpoint on the significance of finding a moral equivalent to war in order to solve these issues and maintain American democracy. The essay is an important contribution to the domains of philosophy, political science, and American studies and is necessary reading for scholars and students interested in these areas.

Stickeen

• by JOHN MUIR
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: http://vault.sierraclub.org/john_muir_exhibit/writings/stickeen/the_story_of_a_dog.aspx

Essay Review: "Stickeen" by JOHN MUIR

John Muir's "Stickeen" is a classic essay that recounts an exciting voyage across the Alaskan wilderness. The essay recalls Muir's adventure with a little dog named Stickeen, who accompanied him on a risky crossing of a glacier river. Through this excursion, Muir contemplates the splendor of the natural world and the resilience of the human soul.

At its core, "Stickeen" is a meditation on the relationship between humans and the environment. The essay is filled with Muir's descriptions of the rocky Alaskan scenery and his profound admiration for the natural world. He writes that the environment was awe-inspiring and that its strength was both humbling and energizing. Through this lens, Muir makes a striking commentary on the need of preserving and protecting the natural world.

In addition to its environmental topics, "Stickeen" is remarkable for its literary features. Muir's language is vivid and evocative, and he brilliantly depicts the grandeur and majesty of the Alaskan environment. Through his words, he transports the reader to this distant and rugged landscape and invites them to experience its strength and awe for themselves.

The essay is also renowned for its philosophical themes. Muir muses on the significance of tenacity, bravery, and resolve in the face of hardship. He observes that the journey with Stickeen was a test of his own spirit and that the experience offered him vital lessons about the strength of the human spirit. Through this perspective, Muir makes a compelling commentary on the necessity of determination and tenacity in the face of life's adversities.

In conclusion, "Stickeen" by John Muir is a classic essay that describes the narrative of an amazing trek across the Alaskan tundra. The essay is a monument to the splendor of the natural world and the resilience of the human spirit. Through its vivid images and philosophical thoughts, the essay provides a valuable contribution to the fields of environmental studies, literary studies, and American studies and is important reading for scholars and students interested in these areas.

A Law of Acceleration

•  by HENRY ADAMS
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: https://www.bartleby.com/159/34.html

Essay Review: "A Law of Acceleration" by HENRY ADAMS

"Of the Coming of John" by W.E.B. Du Bois is a strong essay that addresses the topics of identity, race, and community in early 20th-century America. The essay serves as a reflection on the arrival of a new generation of black Americans who were born after the end of slavery and raised in the aftermath of the Civil War. Du Bois examines the challenges and opportunities facing this new generation and considers the significance of these events for the future of the black community via this lens.

At its core, the essay is an investigation of the psychological and cultural components of racial identity in America. Du Bois contends that the new generation of black Americans is striving to establish a sense of belonging in a country that is still contending with the legacy of slavery and segregation. He observes that this generation is conflicted between their desire to adapt to white culture and their commitment to their own racial heritage. Through this lens, Du Bois highlights the complex and subtle nature of racial identity and the ways in which it is influenced by societal norms and expectations.

In order to prove his thesis, Du Bois presents a vivid and thorough narrative of the life of the protagonist, John, and his struggles to achieve a feeling of belonging in America. He explains John's experiences growing up in a small, black village, his sense of isolation and confusion as he navigates the complexity of white society, and his ultimate rejection of both worlds in favor of a more real and autonomous identity. Through John's journey, Du Bois makes a striking reflection on the issues facing black Americans and the value of racial pride and self-discovery.

While the essay is primarily focused on the experiences of black Americans, it is not limited in its breadth. Du Bois's musings on racial identity and community have broader ramifications for all individuals and communities who struggle to establish a feeling of belonging in a constantly changing world. The essay serves as a call to action, challenging readers to critically evaluate their own views and values and to challenge the norms and expectations of their respective communities.

In conclusion, "Of the Coming of John" by W.E.B. Du Bois is a strong and thought-provoking essay that tackles the topics of identity, race, and community in early 20th-century America. Through its colorful story and smart analysis, the essay presents a deep reflection on the issues facing black Americans and the necessity of racial pride and self-discovery. The essay is a significant contribution to the field of African American studies, and experts and students interested in these fields must study it.

Of the Coming of John

• by W.E.B. DU BOIS
• Featured on: The Best American Essays of the Century
• Read it: https://www.bartleby.com/114/13.html

Essay Review: "Of the Coming of John" by W.E.B. DU BOIS

"Of the Coming of John" by W.E.B. Du Bois is a strong essay that addresses the topics of identity, race, and community in early 20th-century America. The essay serves as a reflection on the arrival of a new generation of black Americans who were born after the end of slavery and raised in the aftermath of the Civil War. Du Bois examines the challenges and opportunities facing this new generation and considers the significance of these events for the future of the black community via this lens.

At its core, the essay is an investigation of the psychological and cultural components of racial identity in America. Du Bois contends that the new generation of black Americans is striving to establish a sense of belonging in a country that is still contending with the legacy of slavery and segregation. He observes that this generation is conflicted between their desire to adapt to white culture and their commitment to their own racial heritage. Through this lens, Du Bois highlights the complex and subtle nature of racial identity and the ways in which it is influenced by societal norms and expectations.

In order to prove his thesis, Du Bois presents a vivid and thorough narrative of the life of the protagonist, John, and his struggles to achieve a feeling of belonging in America. He explains John's experiences growing up in a small, black village, his sense of isolation and confusion as he navigates the complexity of white society, and his ultimate rejection of both worlds in favor of a more real and autonomous identity. Through John's journey, Du Bois makes a striking reflection on the issues facing black Americans and the value of racial pride and self-discovery.

While the essay is primarily focused on the experiences of black Americans, it is not limited in its breadth. Du Bois's musings on racial identity and community have broader ramifications for all individuals and communities who struggle to establish a feeling of belonging in a constantly changing world. The essay serves as a call to action, challenging readers to critically evaluate their own views and values and to challenge the norms and expectations of their respective communities.

In conclusion, "Of the Coming of John" by W.E.B. Du Bois is a strong and thought-provoking essay that tackles the topics of identity, race, and community in early 20th-century America. Through its colorful story and smart analysis, the essay presents a deep reflection on the issues facing black Americans and the necessity of racial pride and self-discovery. The essay is a significant contribution to the field of African American studies, and experts and students interested in these fields must study it.