The Arrogant Beggar by Anzia Yezierska is a fictional story based in Progressive Era (1900 – 1920)New York City. In what ways does Yezierska’s novel shed light on the experience of the “other” during this period? A good essay will seamlessly connect specific historic forces to specific SCENES in the novel and incorporate SPECIFiC historic details associated with the era
Introduction:
Directly address the central question in the prompt in your introduction paragraph. (Thesis) – In this statement, be sure to indicate which aspects of the immigrant experience you will focus on in the body.
Briefly describe the Progressive Era in two to three sentences.
Quickly introduce the novel and its protagonist.
Body:
Focus on three different aspects of the immigrant experience – this will make up your different sections (not to be confused with paragraphs) of the body.
Begin paragraphs/sections with a description of the actual history of that aspect of the immigrant experience. You get this historical context through my lectures in week 9 & 10 and in Takaki’s chapter 11.
Then, bring in specific scenes in the novel that reflect that actual historical experience. Include direct/in-text quotes here. No need to cite. Alhough there is no precise number of quotes you must add, you should have at bare minimum 1 quote per section.
Historical details are a must! — e.g… Not good = During the Progressive Era a lot of people from around the world immigrated to the United States. — NOOOOO! Good = During Progressive era, from 1900 to 1920, 14 million people mostly from Southern and Eastern Europe, immigrated to the United States. Among these ”new immigrants” were Italian, Serbs, Pols, Croatians, Slavs, Russians Jews. – YESSSSS!
When you’re beginning a new section, be sure to tie it back to your thesis. — e.g… The Arrogant Beggar also reflects the actual experience of Russian Jew in its description of living conditions.
Conclusion:
In 4 to 5 sentences, summarize your essay.