Devil in the White City Overview

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Questions and Answers

What unique feature does Olmsted admire about the Jackson Park location for the exposition?

  • The ability to transform it into a park-like setting with natural water bodies (correct)
  • The presence of existing architectural designs
  • The proximity to the city center
  • The historical significance of the area

What was Holmes's behavior towards his wife, Myrta, during their marriage?

  • He constantly encouraged her career aspirations
  • He worked on rebuilding their relationship through counseling
  • He was completely devoted and attentive to her needs
  • He often ignored her and prioritized his business dealings (correct)

What concerns did eastern architects express upon visiting Jackson Park in winter?

  • The unusual flora that could be difficult to work with
  • The lack of modern construction techniques available
  • The feasibility of constructing large buildings in a desolate area (correct)
  • The weather conditions that would hinder construction timelines

What special device did Holmes create for his building?

<p>A kiln-like structure designed for incineration (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was one of Holmes's immoral actions?

<p>Engaging in bigamy with Myrta while neglecting his first wife (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the phrase 'frozen music' in the context of architecture as discussed in Part I?

<p>It conveys the concept that architecture embodies harmony and structure similar to music. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which two cities were primarily competing for the location of the World's Columbian Exposition?

<p>Chicago and New York (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one key characteristic that distinguishes the architect Daniel Hudson Burnham from the murderer H.H. Holmes?

<p>Burnham aimed to build trust and promote good, while Holmes manipulated trust for evil. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What motivated Holmes to acquire the drugstore from Mrs. Holton?

<p>He perceived her vulnerability due to her husband's illness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is John Wellborn Root in the context of the narrative?

<p>The partner of Daniel Burnham and a key figure in architectural innovation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Frame story in Devil in the White City

A story within a story; the novel uses a prologue and other sections as the frame, that frames the story of H.H. Holmes.

Burnham's role in the World's Columbian Exposition

Burnham was a key architect of the World's Columbian Exposition.

Competitors for the World's Columbian Exposition

New York and Chicago were competing for the location of the World's Columbian Exposition.

H.H. Holmes

A serial killer who used the World's Columbian Exposition to lure victims.

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Chicago in relation to H.H. Holmes

Chicago's openness enabled Holmes' crimes. The exposition allowed easy access to victims.

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Olmsted's vision for Jackson Park

Olmsted envisions Jackson Park as a park with canals, lagoons, and Lake Michigan as its backdrop, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all elements for a cohesive whole.

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Myrta Belknap's marriage to Holmes

Myrta Belknap marries Holmes, who is already married, leading to a troubled relationship marked by Holmes's infidelity and financial irregularities.

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Eastern architects' reaction to Jackson Park

Eastern architects, skeptical of the feasibility of transforming the location due to factors such as unsuitability of the location, short time frame, and construction quality concerns.

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Holmes's building's special feature

Holmes designed a sealed crematory-like kiln to eliminate odors coming from his building.

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Holmes's immoral behaviors

Holmes exhibits various immoral behaviors including abandoning wives, bigamy, financial misconduct, exploiting workers, and potentially harmful intent towards women.

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Study Notes

Frame Story of Devil in the White City

  • The book uses a frame story, telling one story within another.
  • The prologue begins with Daniel Burnham on a ship, ending with the fair's influence on him.
  • Part 1 starts with Chicago's bid for the World's Columbian Exposition, then shifts to Burnham and Root.

Architects and Murderer

  • Daniel Burnham is the central architect.
  • H.H. Holmes is the murderer, using the fair for his crimes.
  • Larson pairs Burnham and Holmes due to their influence and ability to inspire trust, one for good, the other for evil.

Frozen Music

  • Part I is called "Frozen Music" to highlight the architectural focus on the Exposition.
  • Burnham and Root took on the responsibility of the Exposition's design.

Competition for the Exposition

  • Chicago and New York competed for the Exposition.
  • New York was a financial and cultural center.
  • Chicago was known for the Stock Yards.
  • The Paris Exposition inspired a desire for greater American representation.

John Wellborn Root

  • John Wellborn Root was Daniel Burnham's partner.

Herman Webster Mudgett (H.H. Holmes)

  • Herman Webster Mudgett, or Dr. Holmes, was a pharmacist and doctor.
  • He found Chicago enabling him to express himself.

Holmes's Business Ventures

  • Holmes acquired a drugstore by taking advantage of Mrs. Holton's vulnerability.
  • He built a large commercial building, mixing businesses and apartments.

Frederick Law Olmsted

  • Frederick Law Olmsted designed Central Park.

Olmsted's View of Jackson Park

  • Olmsted supported Jackson Park with its potential for a park-like atmosphere incorporating canals, lagoons, and Lake Michigan.

Myrta Belknap

  • Myrta Belknap married Holmes, though he was already married.
  • Their marriage was troubled, and Holmes behaved immorally.
  • Holmes was involved in fraudulent activities and had a disregard for his family's well-being.

Eastern Architects' Reaction

  • Eastern architects were invited to contribute to the Exposition design.
  • Their response to Jackson Park in winter was negative due to its condition and perceived lack of time.

Holmes's Building Features

  • Holmes designed a secret kiln/crematorium-like oven in his building.

Holmes's Immoral Actions

  • Holmes was involved in fraud, bigamy, and immoral behavior.
  • He exploited vulnerable individuals, showing disregard for others.

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