Your response should include the following to receive the points in parentheses: Respond in one or two paragraphs. Answer is written in complete sentences.Choose one of the following two prompts:“I am a citizen of the world” is a key line in the story “When Greek Meets Greek.” Compare and contrast how this line relates to the events of "When Greek Meets Greek" and another selection in this unit.The poems in this unit share a theme of love—love of self, love of family, love of country, and love of a significant other. After deciding what kind of love is being addressed in each poem, compare and contrast how two of the poems treat the subject of love. Provide sensory details that the poets use to support your examples.

1 answer

In "When Greek Meets Greek," the line "I am a citizen of the world" reflects the protagonist's outlook on life and his ability to navigate and adapt to different cultures and situations. This line is exemplified through the main character's ability to seamlessly switch between languages and assimilate into various social circles, such as when he uses his knowledge of Greek to impress the Greek huckster. It also relates to the events of the story by highlighting the protagonist's cosmopolitan nature, which enables him to successfully execute his plan to outsmart the scheming Greek.

A selection that shares a similar theme of being a citizen of the world is the poem "I, Too" by Langston Hughes. This poem addresses the theme of racial equality and the hope for a future where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race. The protagonist in the poem expresses his determination to be seen and acknowledged as an equal citizen of his country, despite the discrimination and segregation he faces. Both "When Greek Meets Greek" and "I, Too" emphasize the idea of belonging to a larger global community and challenge societal norms and expectations.

Two poems that treat the subject of love in different ways are "My Last Duchess" by Robert Browning and "Ego Tripping" by Nikki Giovanni. In "My Last Duchess," the speaker's love for himself and his desire for control are evident. The sensory details in this poem, such as the mention of the painted portrait and the description of the duke's gestures and demeanor, support the example of the speaker's self-centered love. The poet uses visual imagery to create a vivid image of the duke's arrogance and possessiveness.

In contrast, "Ego Tripping" celebrates a different kind of love - self-love and empowerment. The poem is an assertion of the speaker's own worth and accomplishments, highlighting her love for herself. The sensory details in this poem, such as the reference to the speaker's "breath as sweet as coconuts," create a sense of richness and abundance, supporting the example of self-love. The poet uses taste and smell imagery to evoke a sensory experience and to emphasize the speaker's confidence and self-assurance.