Question

GRETCHEN SCHRIVER: I am American. In 1885 my family left the newly united Germany. It was the Industrial Revolution and machines were replacing people. My family was no longer needed. America was still wide open, though. They entered through Galveston, Texas, and eventually made their way up the Mississippi River to Milwaukee. They farmed. They took all that land, that prairie grass waving mile after mile, and started turning it into the infamous bread basket. They built churches and music halls, and, well, they really settled into America. (GRETCHEN exits left. MICHAEL LU enters left and comes center. SILHOUETTES begin pantomiming hammering spikes on railroad tracks.) A) Use the soliloquy from “I Am American” to answer the question. Select “Yes” or “No” to show whether each statement explains how the use of soliloquy—rather than monologue—enhances this dramatic text. (2 points) Yes No allows GRETCHEN to reveal that she sees herself as an American frees GRETCHEN from the fear of being judged by others for her thoughts gives GRETCHEN the chance to change what another character thinks allows GRETCHEN to speak in as much detail as she wishes about her experience in America

Answer 1

Let's analyze each statement in relation to how the use of soliloquy enhances the dramatic text:

1. Allows GRETCHEN to reveal that she sees herself as an American - Yes
   This statement is true because a soliloquy allows GRETCHEN to express her personal feelings and thoughts directly to the audience. It provides insight into her identity and connection to her American experience.

2. Frees GRETCHEN from the fear of being judged by others for her thoughts - Yes
   A soliloquy is a way for a character to speak their minds without the influence or judgment of other characters, which enhances the authenticity of GRETCHEN's self-revelation.

3. Gives GRETCHEN the chance to change what another character thinks - No
   This statement does not accurately reflect the purpose of a soliloquy. A soliloquy is an internal monologue meant to express a character's thoughts rather than to directly influence another character's opinions.

4. Allows GRETCHEN to speak in as much detail as she wishes about her experience in America - Yes
   A soliloquy provides the character the freedom to elaborate on their experiences and emotions without interruption, allowing for a deeper exploration of GRETCHEN's narrative.

In summary:

1. Yes
2. Yes
3. No
4. Yes