Read the Introduction and questions and write a synthesis essay of 6 long paragraphs 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
1 answer
Maya Ling Yin, the designer of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, believed that the monument’s design was meant to evoke a sense of healing and reflection. In Source B, she discusses how the reflective quality of the black walls and the park-like setting around them create a somber and contemplative atmosphere. This viewpoint suggests that the memorial serves as a respectful tribute to the veterans who lost their lives in the conflict.
On the other hand, Tom Carhart, in Source C, argues that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is insulting to the veterans who survived the war. He criticizes the design of the monument as a "black, tomb-like hole" that does not adequately honor the sacrifices of those who served in Vietnam. Carhart’s perspective highlights the divisive nature of the memorial and raises questions about its effectiveness as a tribute to the veterans.
Phyllis S. Corbitt, in Source E, offers a different perspective on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. She discusses the importance of honoring both veterans of war and anti-war activists, suggesting that the memorial can serve as a symbol of healing and reconciliation for all those affected by the Vietnam Conflict. Corbitt’s viewpoint adds another layer to the debate surrounding the memorial and its significance in American history.
Overall, the sources present a complex and multifaceted view of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. While some argue that it is a fitting tribute to the sacrifices of the veterans who served in Vietnam, others criticize its design and execution. The themes of remembrance, healing, and reconciliation emerge as central to the discussion of the memorial’s significance, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding its place in American history.
In conclusion, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. continues to be a source of controversy and debate. While some view it as a solemn and respectful tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Vietnam Conflict, others see it as a divisive and inadequate monument. By considering multiple perspectives and themes presented in different sources, it becomes clear that the memorial holds different meanings for different people. Ultimately, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities and nuances of American history and the impact of war on individuals and society as a whole.