...I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is the 1969 autobiography about the early years of African-American writer and poet Maya Angelou. The first in a seven-volume series, it is a coming-of-age story that illustrates how strength of character and a love of literature can help overcome racism and trauma. The book begins when three-year-old Maya and her older brother are sent to Stamps, Arkansas, to live with their grandmother and ends when Maya becomes a mother at the age of 16. In the course of Caged Bird, Maya transforms from a victim of racism with an inferiority complex into a self-possessed, dignified young woman capable of responding to prejudice. Angelou was challenged by her friend, author James Baldwin, and her editor, Robert Loomis, to write an autobiography that was also a piece of literature. Reviewers often categorize Caged Bird as autobiographical fiction because Angelou uses thematic development and other techniques common to fiction, but the prevailing critical view characterizes it as an autobiography, a genre she attempts to critique, change, and expand. The book covers topics common to autobiographies written by Black American women in the years following the civil rights movement: a celebration of Black motherhood; a critique of racism; the importance of family; and the quest for independence, personal dignity, and self-definition. Angelou uses her autobiography to explore subjects such as identity, rape, racism, and literacy. She also writes in new ways about...
Words: 452 - Pages: 2
...Natural Effects on a Boy Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s Confessions has the entire life of its author’s experiences, virtues, and detailed imperfections. Rousseau’s Confessions is one of the first notable autobiographies and has influenced many forms of narratives. It inaugurated modern day autobiography and inspired a narrative technic used in many great novels. Rousseau wrote this autobiography in order to tell the world about himself and express the nature of man. He did not want to be known by how people thought of him, but rather be able to tell people exactly what happened in his life and let them be the judge. Rousseau begins Confessions by stating, “this is the only portrait of a man, painted exactly according to nature and in all of its truth, that exists and will probably ever exist” (57). He included embarrassing experiences and personal thoughts from throughout his life to show every possible virtue of his life. He portrays what every boy encounters from mischievous trickery to entering sexual adulthood. The events that change his life and himself become a consistent theme while he describes his childhood, sexual cravings, and natural thoughts of a boy’s life. One of the most common subjects in Rousseau autobiography is the story of his childhood and the nature of a boy. Rousseau’s mother passed away during his birth, which strained the relation between him and his father. When they tried to speak of her the conversation would end with tears because his father saw Rousseau’s...
Words: 1263 - Pages: 6
...HOW TO ANALYSE SOURCES ANALYSING OF SOURCES Historical criticism.-> Original document? How, when, and why did it come into being? Where does it come from? Who is the author or the cartoonist or the cameraman? 2 critical questions: Could the witness possibly have known the truth? Did the witness wish to tell the truth? EVALUATING OF SOURCES Authenticity? (are there factual errors in the source?) Reliability? (how long after the event was the source produced?) Bias/Prejudice? Subjectivity VS objectivity? Historians have an issue, the source is problematic (biased, emotions, etc) and the historian is a human writer. To guard oneself from being manipulated by bias sources, one must cross-reference. This means one must analyse a few sources and then synthesise their own conclusion. QUESTIONS WHICH ASK YOU TO COMPARE IN THE TEST OR EXAM Generally sources can have two characteristics with each other. They are either similar or they are contradictory/different with each other. One should consider the following aspects when answering these types of exam questions: What are the similarities(1) and the differences(2) between the sources? How do these sources complement each other(3)? Which of these sources provides a more accurate viewpoint on the topic(4)? QUESTIONS WHICH ASK YOU TO USE ALL THE SOURCES This is an eight mark question which comes prior to the essay. One is required to write approximately 10-15 lines;...
Words: 744 - Pages: 3
...López de Córdoba, a Spanish noblewoman, wrote her Memorias, which may be the first autobiography in Castillian. Zāhir ud-Dīn Mohammad Bābur,who founded the Mughal dynasty of South Asia kept a journal Bāburnāma (Chagatai/Persian: بابر نامہ; literally: "Book of Babur" or "Letters of Babur") which was written between 1493 and 1529. One of the first great autobiographies of the Renaissance is that of the sculptor and goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini (1500–1571), written between 1556 and 1558, and entitled by him simply Vita (Italian: Life). He declares at the start: "No matter what sort he is, everyone who has to his credit what are or really seem great achievements, if he cares for truth and goodness, ought to write the story of his own life in his own hand; but no one should venture on such a splendid undertaking before he is over forty."[2] These criteria for autobiography generally persisted until recent times, and most serious autobiographies of the next three hundred years conformed to them. Another autobiography of the period is De vita propria, by the Italian mathematician, physician and astrologer Gerolamo Cardano (1574). The earliest known autobiography in English is the early 15th-century Booke of Margery Kempe, describing among other things her pilgrimage to the Holy Land and visit to Rome. The book remained in manuscript and was not published until 1936. Notable English autobiographies of the 17th century include those of Lord Herbert of Cherbury (1643, published 1764)...
Words: 284 - Pages: 2
...The page before Donald M. Murray’s “All Writing is Autobiography” warns readers that Murray’s opinion on writing is different from most other opinions. Prior to reading Murray’s article, I agreed with those opinions which included the rule: never use the word “I” in a formal paper. While writing this paper, I feel a strong urge to erase the words “I agreed” and rewrite the entire page in a more formal manner. Murray’s article changed my idea of the writing process by making me realize that every piece of writing is autobiographical whether or not an author is writing objectively through word choice, sentence structure, metaphors, and even punctuation. A reader can learn much about an author through his or her word choice. An author’s diction may seem more colloquial or more obscure and academic depending on his or her personality. Murray demonstrates how an author can use creativity by creating words when he uses the words “squenched and “companioned” in his poem “At 64, Talking Without Words.” Though these are not words one would find in a dictionary, they are understood by readers and aid in defining the author. Sentence structure is an important piece of writing. An author may utilize a run-on sentence or a one-worded sentence in order to create a point or emphasize one, however grammatically incorrect the sentence may be. Charlotte Brontë, for example, frequently uses run-one sentences in order to complete a thought without the interruption of a period. Authors may...
Words: 398 - Pages: 2
...In the book "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Malcolm X ,and Alex Haley, the authors inform us about Malcolm's life. The authors structure and style Malcolm's life revolved around many things that caused Malcolm to do everything that he did. The structure was organized from his early to his adult life. The things that influenced Malcolm's life the most were his education,his family,and religion. Malcolm was considered to be an intelligent person, However many doubted him. In the book it says " It was surprising thing that I had never thought of it that way before, but I realized that what ever I wasn't, I was smarter than nearly all of white kids. But apparently I was still not intelligent enough, in their...
Words: 400 - Pages: 2
...believed in success. However his life was not perfect. He knows that as well. Therefore, he works hard to improve himself in so many different ways. Although Benjamin Franklin life was not perfect, his autobiography is a compass that can direct many to the path of success. The youngest of a large family of thirteen, Benjamin Franklin had a hard time living his life to attend the success that he wanted. Everything in life matters to him. However, his biggest problem was when he could not get the education he wanted. He was a friend of books; he liked reading anecdotes from which he learned important principles that his ancestors left. According to the reading, his love for study pushed him to sell business. Many people today would not take such decision. However, Franklin knew what he was doing. He prioritized education over money because he believed that there are better riches in knowledge than in money. The results of his action were amazing. Those results cannot be bought with money. He made different discoveries that gained him reputation throughout Europe. Franklin did not keep all the successful principles for himself. Therefore, he made them word in other to pass them on from generation to generation. Many believe that Franklin did not know that his autobiography would be that popular all over the globe. He thought that he was writing to his son only. It seems many take this work a guide of success. For example, in Haiti, many people who do have almost nothing...
Words: 492 - Pages: 2
...begins his Autobiography by stating the reasons for writing it. He wished to share his life story with his son and tell him anecdotes about his ancestors. Since Franklin had grown up in a poor family, he wished to share his rags to riches story with others as they may be inspired to do better. Franklin knew he could not relive his life and in fact would not have changed much of it had he been given the opportunity to live it over, but he wished to relive those memories from his early life through his manuscript. Another reason was that, through writing, he would not bore people as he would have by telling his stories in person. And finally, he wrote it for himself to satisfy his own ego and sense of self-worth. The story of how the Benjamin Franklin Autobiography became published is a story in itself. It was intended as a private collection and not supposed to be made public. However, based on the number of copies made before he died, it is hard to believe that he did not intend for it to be seen by all. As the story is read, different views can be ascertained. This would depend on various reasons but my thoughts are that it is also self-promoting in some ways. As Franklin offers stories of his early life, he is offering evidence that anyone can make it if they strive to improve upon what they have accomplished thus far. The story of his ancestry and early years is an intriguing glimpse into the inner workings of the family during this period. The Autobiography begins with...
Words: 1188 - Pages: 5
...Benjamin Franklin, 1706-1790, printer, scientist, statesman, wrote an Autobiography that poses a riddle never completely solved: How could such an incomplete, disjointed, inaccurate, mangled manuscript be so perennially popular? Translated into dozens of languages and reprinted in hundreds of editions, it continues to be one of the most successful books of all time, even though Franklin himself is sometimes viewed with suspicion by the haters of industry and frugality. An answer to the riddle of the Autobiography is partially hinted at by the ways in which it has been described, for if it has not been all things to all men, it has at least been remarkable to most men who have read it. Its most admired qualities have changed as fashions, philosophies, and needs have changed. But, significantly, the book continues to survive such changes From the first line, Franklin's Autobiography illustrates the complex character of the man who wrote it, not only through the facts it states but also through the attitudes it reveals. The productive tension in Franklin's nature between the lighthearted and the earnest is evident by the end of the first paragraph. While Franklin starts his account as a paternal (and presumably chatty) letter to his son, he soon begins the formal statement about his worthy purposes — the rationalizations for the work to follow — which one expects of highly serious eighteenth-century treatises. But after presenting three respectable reasons for writing, Franklin...
Words: 3434 - Pages: 14
...The Autobiography of Malcolm X was written by both Malcom X and journalist Alex Haley. Malcom X would tell Alex Haley his life story, Haley would write down Malcom's story in first person with Malcom editing and approving what was created. Malcolm Little was born May 19, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska. He was the fourth of seven children having Louise Helen Little and Earl Little as parents. His father was the leader of the Universal Negro Improvement Association. Malcom and his family later moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin then Lansin Michigan due to threats made by the Black Legion who were a racist white group. In 1931, Malcom's father was killed in a streetcar accident, although his mother believes it was the Black Legion's doing. Malcom Little...
Words: 314 - Pages: 2
...Joseph Chase 04/9/2012 Benjamin franklin Autobiography Benjamin Franklin was one of the founding fathers of the United States. Franklin was born January 17, 1706 and died April 17, 1790. Franklin was a leading writer, publisher, inventor, diplomat, scientist, and philosopher. Franklin is well-known for his experiments with electricity and lightning. Franklin was one of fifteen children in his family. Because he was from such a large family he was sent out to work at a very early age. He only had a few years of grammar school education when he started working in his father’s business. During his days off he educated himself through books. He worked as an apprentice in his brother’s print shop for several years until tension ended their relationship. He moved to Philadelphia to continue in the printing business. The book portrays a picture of life in Philadelphia, as well as literature, philosophy, and religion of America colonial and revolutionary periods. Franklin discussed his life-story as an example to illustrate the most important American qualities and values, like determination, self-sufficiency, perseverance, hard work, frugality, and reliance on a sound code of ethics are the ingredients of success. Benjamin was always teaching and leading by example. One way Franklin started his self-improvement was when he worked at his brother shop he begin to read and imitate the style of professional authors. This was a personal...
Words: 741 - Pages: 3
...uestions: (choose one) ….3-4 page paper, 900 – 1200 words. 1. One of the over-arching themes in Franklin’s Autobiography is that of self-improvement. Franklin intends for his own experience to serve as a model for others. Discuss key ways that Franklin presents his story as an illustration of self-improvement. Is he successful in the attempt? What motivates him toward this attempt? Does he strike you as a self-promoter or a genuinely benevolent man desirous of helping others? In your answer, use specific examples from the book to illustrate your points. A: Opening Franklin Autobiography intention of self improvement B Key ways Franklin presented his story as illustration of self-improvement 1) Stressed education a) Read numerous books b) Improved his writing through self inflicted exercise c) Taught himself about subjects that peaked his interest d) Taught himself French, Italian, Spanish, and Latin 2) Stressed health a) Implemented a vegetarian diet b) Practiced temperance in food and drink c) Discouraged heavy drinking 3) Good work ethic a) Always kept a job even when young b) Always excelled to be best at whatever trade he undertook 4) Never acted hastily always had plan a) Made plans and kept to them b) 5) Mindful of company he kept (friendships, acquaintances) a) Stayed out of bars, and questionable establishments b) Interacted with people that kept the same interest to education, reading, etc. c) Established...
Words: 304 - Pages: 2
...Michel Rodrigues ENG 095-111 Writing Prompt #2 Option 4 A Case of Racism Good morning people of the jury. What if I told you, you aren’t aloud to have dreams? What if I told you that your goals aren’t prudent and that you will have to settle for less? What if I told you that as a child you would be stripped of all your aspirations and that you would never amount to the capabilities of your peers? Finally what if I told you that the reason why you cannot have these dreams and why your goals aren’t prudent and why you will never amount to your peers are because of your skin color. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury what if I told you that in your academic career you would be a victim to racism. If I held a position where I influence you, logically everything I say or do can have a dramatic impact on your life. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury what if I said to a student, “You’ve got to be realistic… A lawyer is no realistic goal…”(Mascot pg. 34). As a man in a position of high regard, and a role model and mentor these words are profoundly discouraging. Although, the student triumphs over their peers academically, for some reason this student does not suit my standards. These are words of advice Mr. Ostrowski had given to a young Malcolm X. Malcolm had the highest grades in his class, But Mr. Ostrowski belittled him but not his peers. Malcolm stated that the students, “All reported that Mr. Ostrowski had encouraged what they had wanted, yet nearly none of them had earned...
Words: 627 - Pages: 3
...Ryan McCarthy History 1100 Wiard Benjamin Franklin Every kid, at some point in their life, reads about Benjamin Franklin in school. He is one of the most popular historical figures ever, but why is Franklin so popular? Ben was one of seventeen children, he was not very religious, and at the age if seventeen he ran away from his home and family. At first glance these do not seem like the characteristics of a successful human being, but it was these very things that helped shaped Ben’s life, and allowed him to become the most distinguished man of the 18th century. Franklin, being a part of such a large family, had no choice but to fend for himself. In order for Franklin to flourish he had to self-educate, self-motivate, and self-improve himself, which he became obsessed with. Franklin had to look out for number one, and when he left he never looked back. Throughout his travels Franklin sought opportunity, and he seized each one he came across, whether it be “flirting” or socializing, making important friendships and connections, or spreading his image throughout the globe Franklin was determined to succeed. The formula for Franklin’s success doesn’t seem to be an extremely difficult one, but it was how he executed it that separated him from the rest. Ben was a very strict, regimented, self-critical man. Every move Franklin made was pre-analyzed, and had a specific purpose to better his life. In a nutshell Franklins formula was “self-hood” and networking, or creating and...
Words: 1543 - Pages: 7
...As we indulge into ‘The Autobiography of Malcolm X’ by Alex Haley, the author keeps us locked into Malcolm’s story by making us feel as if we’re right there, living Malcolm’s life with him. Malcolm’s story is so engaging because of the author’s use of figurative language and imagery. Malcolm provides detailed descriptions of the things he saw, the places he went, the people he met, even the clothes he wore. The literary choices of imagery and figurative language contribute to the the power and beauty of the text and further develop Malcolm X’s purpose for writing. In the first eleven chapters of the autobiography, Malcolm goes through many challenges and changes as a person. Malcolm hopes to show how events in his life had an influence on...
Words: 784 - Pages: 4
