Question

1. Write a two-paragraph essay about the Riis selections.

In the first paragraph, compare and contrast the two excerpts from Riis's book, First, reread the selections and look up any words and/or references that you don't know. Then consider this question what techniques does Rilis use in each excerpt to persuade people that there is a serious problem in the tenements of New York City? In your answer, consider vocabulary choices (diction), use of quotations, refierence to sources, choice of details, facts, style, allusions (cultural references-for example, the references to Genesis in the title, and Cain in the first sentences. Who do you think is the intended audience of each excerpt, based on your analysis?

In the second paragraph, tell whether you are persuaded by Rils's work? Explain the factors that led to your response and which ellements you found particularly persuasive or questionatile

Answer 1

In the selections from Jacob Riis's work, the stark realities of life in New York City’s tenements are powerfully conveyed through his adept use of vivid language, emotional appeals, and authoritative references. Riis employs descriptive diction to paint a haunting picture of the living conditions, using words that evoke both pity and outrage. His allusions to Genesis, with the mention of Cain, serve to underscore themes of sin and moral failure, suggesting that society has forsaken its responsibility to care for its most vulnerable. Additionally, Riis includes quotations from local officials and charities, enhancing his credibility and emphasizing the urgency of reform. The juxtaposition of the squalid conditions against the ideal of the American Dream creates a poignant contrast that compels the audience to confront the grim reality of urban poverty. The intended audience appears to be both the urban middle class and policymakers, as Riis seeks to stir the conscience of those in positions to effect change, urging them to acknowledge a problem that demands immediate attention.

Personally, I find Riis's work to be deeply persuasive, as it compellingly illustrates the dire circumstances faced by those living in tenements. The combination of his poignant imagery and the emotional weight of his narratives walks the reader through the harrowing experiences of the impoverished, creating an immersive experience that is hard to ignore. I was particularly struck by the specific details he provides, such as descriptions of overcrowding and disease, which highlight the human cost of urban neglect and resonate with a sense of urgency. However, while I appreciate Riis’s emotional appeal, I question whether his dramatic portrayal adequately represents the resilience of these communities, sometimes overshadowing their agency in the face of adversity. Overall, Riis’s eloquent advocacy for social reform serves as a powerful rallying cry for empathy and action in addressing systemic issues, making a compelling case for the need for change in societal attitudes toward the poor.