After examining the background information provided regarding the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., it is evident that the prompt is asking to evaluate whether or not the memorial is an appropriate tribute to the Vietnam veterans. Initially, my gut opinion leans towards the belief that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a fitting tribute, as the reflective walls listing the names of those who died in the conflict symbolizes a somber and respectful acknowledgment of their sacrifice. Sources B (THE VIETNAM MEMORIAL by Maya Ling Yin) and E (HONORING VETERANS OF WAR AND ANTI-WAR by Phyllis S. Corbitt) both support this perspective by emphasizing the memorial's reflective quality and its ability to evoke powerful emotions. On the other hand, Source C (INSULTING VIETNAM VETS by Tom Carhart) presents a contrasting view that the monument is dishonorable to the survivors of the Vietnam War. This perspective challenges me to consider the different opinions surrounding the memorial and explore the complexity of its symbolism.
In Source B, Maya Ling Yin discusses the design and intention behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, highlighting its unique structure and the emotional impact it has on visitors. Yin emphasizes that the memorial "offers the visitor a place to contemplate the reality of that war and to grieve the loss of so many lives" (Source B). This interpretation aligns with my initial belief that the memorial serves as a poignant tribute to the Vietnam veterans by providing a space for reflection and remembrance. Additionally, Source E by Phyllis S. Corbitt explores the theme of honoring veterans of war and anti-war movements, suggesting that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial serves as a symbol of reconciliation and healing for the nation. Corbitt's perspective reinforces the idea that the memorial plays a crucial role in acknowledging the complexities of the Vietnam War and honoring the sacrifices made by those who served.
Conversely, Source C by Tom Carhart presents a critical viewpoint that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is insulting to veterans of the war. Carhart argues that the memorial's design, particularly its sunken location and reflective walls, creates a negative and oppressive atmosphere that does not adequately honor the veterans. This contrasting perspective challenges the notion that the memorial is a fitting tribute and prompts a reconsideration of its symbolism and impact on those it is meant to honor.
In synthesizing these sources, it is clear that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. elicits strong and varied reactions from different individuals. While some view the memorial as a respectful tribute that honors the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans, others see it as inadequate and even dishonorable. The themes of reflection, remembrance, and reconciliation emerge as central to the discussion surrounding the memorial, highlighting the complex emotions and perspectives it evokes. Ultimately, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial serves as a symbol of the ongoing dialogue and debate surrounding the Vietnam War and its impact on American history.
Read the Introduction and questions and write a synthesis essay don't just answer the question
Introduction:
The Vietnam Conflict was arguably the most contentious in American History The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located on the National Mall in Washington DC., was also a contentious choice. A wild departure from the tall monuments of other wars, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is an intersection of two reflective walls set below the ground. The walls list the names of the Americans who died in the conflict. Some have referred to the monument as a black, tomb-like hole that dishonors the survivors of the Vietnam War. Others feel that the reflective quality of the monument coupled with the park-like setting around it pays evocative tribute to a complex moment in American history.
Read the following sources (including any introductory information) carefully. Then write a synthesis essay in which you evaluate whether or not the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C is an appropriate tribute to the Vietnam veterans
Refer to the sources by their titles (Source A, Source B, etc.) or by the descriptions
Source A (Ayers)
Source B (Lin)
Source C (Carhart)
Source D (Remembering)
Source E (Corbitt)
Sources:
A. YALE SENIOR, A VIETNAM MEMORIAL AND A FEW IRONTES, by B. Drummond
B. THE VIETNAM MEMORIAL by Maya Ling Yin
C. INSULTING VIETNAM VETS, by Tom Carhart
D. HOW TO REMEMBER VIL INAM
E HONORING VETERANS OF WAR AND ANTI-WAR by Phyllis S. Corbitt
Keep the following questions in mind and make sure to answer them in your essay
What is the prompt asking you to take a position on, what is it asking you to do. After reading the background info, what is your gut opinion on which side you want to take. Go with one. Which sources support your position. Make an indication so you can come back to those later. Which sources seem to run counter to your position. Pick at least one of these to read for your counter-argument. As you are reading, be on the lookout for anything (quotes) you can use in your paper later Mark them so you can find them as you are writing. What are some overarching themes you notice in the works you read. How can you use these themes to group the sources you read. How will you combine them. You will need to use 3 sources overall, but please don't use more than 4 (for time purposes). Yes, this means you can use a source twice For example, if you have talked about Source A and Source B in the first paragraph, you can then talk about Source B and Source E in the second paragraph. You MUST have more than one source per body paragraph. Make a brief outline and pick pertinent quotes from your sources if you haven't yet
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