For this section you will respond in a formal essay of 4 Paragraphs. You have just read two texts: a poem "We Wear the Mask" by Paul Lawrence Dunbar and an excerpt from "Self-Relia... For this section you will respond in a formal essay of 4 Paragraphs. You have just read two texts: a poem "We Wear the Mask" by Paul Lawrence Dunbar and an excerpt from "Self-Reliance" by Ralph Waldo Emerson. Both writers write about society's attitudes towards individual freedom and, in a sense, the symbolic masks humans wear during the course of their lives. Discuss the symbol of the mask, each writer's point of view about this symbol, and the reason individuals might feel the need to wear them. Use at least three direct references in total.
Understand the Problem
The question asks for a formal essay that analyzes the symbol of the mask in the works of Paul Lawrence Dunbar and Ralph Waldo Emerson. It requires a discussion of each writer's perspective on the mask and the motivations behind individuals wearing masks in society, supported by direct references from the texts.
Answer
The mask symbolizes societal influence on individual freedom; Dunbar highlights emotional concealment, while Emerson emphasizes the loss of authenticity. People wear masks for social acceptance or protection from judgment.
In "We Wear the Mask," Paul Laurence Dunbar uses the mask symbol to represent how people hide their true feelings behind a façade to conform to societal expectations. Dunbar's perspective highlights the struggles and emotional pain caused by social pressure. On the other hand, Emerson in "Self-Reliance" emphasizes individuality and warns against conforming to societal norms. The mask, in this context, symbolizes the loss of self-reliance and authenticity. Individuals may wear masks to gain social acceptance or protect themselves from judgment.
Answer for screen readers
In "We Wear the Mask," Paul Laurence Dunbar uses the mask symbol to represent how people hide their true feelings behind a façade to conform to societal expectations. Dunbar's perspective highlights the struggles and emotional pain caused by social pressure. On the other hand, Emerson in "Self-Reliance" emphasizes individuality and warns against conforming to societal norms. The mask, in this context, symbolizes the loss of self-reliance and authenticity. Individuals may wear masks to gain social acceptance or protect themselves from judgment.
More Information
Dunbar's poem suggests that masks are used to hide suffering and maintain dignity, particularly in the face of racial oppression. Emerson’s essay encourages personal authenticity and independence from societal norms, viewing conformity as detrimental to one's true self.
Tips
A common mistake is equating the two authors' use of the mask symbol as identical, instead of recognizing Dunbar's focus on emotional concealment and Emerson's focus on authenticity.
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