Microsoft Word - Steinbeck Paradox and Dream Qs.doc



Name __________________________Date ___________________________“Paradox and Dream” by John Steinbeck DIRECTIONS: Complete the following based on “Paradox and Dream,” by John Steinbeck. SUMMARY PARAGRAPH: In your own words, write a brief paragraph (3-5 sentences maximum) summarizing Steinbeck’s thesis and other main ideas. Make sure to use concrete details to support your ideas. SHORT-RESPONSE QUESTIONS: Answer the questions below in complete sentences. Include concrete detail (direct quote) or specific examples to support your ideas. Look up the definition of “paradox.” What is it? How does the title with the addition of “dream” re-inforce this idea? Which details or examples does Steinbeck use to show that Americans are “restless and dissatisfied?” In your opinion, what are two modern-day examples of Americans acting “restless and dissatisfied?” Be specific and briefly explain your choices. In the second paragraph, what does he believe are the results of this restless dissatisfaction? In the second paragraph, why is America not the greatest in the world? What examples does he list? How are we hypocrites? In the third paragraph, he mentions Americans are more likely to help _______________ than a ______________________________________________. What is the paradox he discusses in paragraph four? Do you think that’s true? In paragraph five, Steinbeck says one American dream is the house which has “little to do with reality in American life.” What claim does he make to support this? In paragraph six, what’s the “deepest American illusion?” And how does it relate to immigrant’s dreams of America? In your opinion, what are two modern-day examples of how Americans respond to advertising or exhibit signs of blatant consumerism? Use specific examples from your own observations or experiences. In paragraph seven, what contrast and comparison does he use in regards to gangs? According to Steinbeck, what is most puzzling about the “American Dream?” Does Steinbeck believe the American dream is real? Based on your reading of the essay and your personal experience, to you tend to agree or disagree with Steinbeck’s ideas about the paradoxical nature of Americans and the ‘American Dream?’” Briefly explain why. ................
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