Question

Flag Raising On Iwo Jima, Joe Rosenthal, 1945

1. What did you first notice about the photograph? (1 -2 complete sentences)


2. What assumptions did you make about the image? (1 -2 complete sentences)


3. What compositional or photographic techniques did the artist use? (1 -2 complete sentences)


Now, take a few minutes to research the photograph before answering the remaining questions.
4. What did you learn from your research that was surprising? (1 -2 complete sentences)


5. Did it change your impression of the photograph? (1 -2 complete sentences)


6. Do you feel this belongs on a list of the top 100 photos of all time? Why or why not?


Student thoughtfully answers the observation questions with many details
Student clearly researched the photograph and can thoughtfully show gained knowlege.

Answers

Answered by GPT-4o mini
1. The first thing I noticed about the photograph is the moment of triumph captured as the American soldiers raise the flag atop Mount Suribachi, with a powerful sense of camaraderie and determination among the men. The dramatic angle and the mounting flag create a sense of upward motion and victory.

2. My initial assumption about the image was that it represented a significant moment of victory in World War II, symbolizing patriotism and the sacrifices made by soldiers. I also perceived it as an iconic representation of American resilience in the face of adversity.

3. The artist, Joe Rosenthal, used a low-angle perspective to emphasize the soldiers' stature and the importance of the flag-raising event. The composition is balanced, with the triangular formation of soldiers directing the viewer's eye towards the flag, creating a sense of harmony and focus on the central act of bravery.

4. From my research, I learned that the photograph was taken during a fierce battle on Iwo Jima and that the flag raising was actually the second event – the first flag was replaced due to its small size. Additionally, I found out that the image played a significant role in boosting American morale and became a symbol of the war effort.

5. Yes, learning about the context and the struggle behind the photograph changed my impression of it. It deepened my understanding of the emotional weight and historical significance of the moment, making it not just a representation of victory but also a reflection of the sacrifices and realities of war.

6. I believe this photograph deserves a place on a list of the top 100 photos of all time because it encapsulates a powerful moment in history, representing bravery, sacrifice, and the spirit of a nation during a tumultuous time. Its impact on American culture and its role in shaping public perception of the war demonstrate its enduring significance.

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