us history reflection about my answer with my group

Names of Group Members

Discussion Questions based on the two poems:

1. Discuss some of the subjects of Dorothea Lange's photographs (especially on pp. 4, 5, and 6 of the article). What do you learn about the effects of the Great Depression on the American people from them? Make sure to address the subjects of three photographs.

 Answer:

“Towards Los Angeles” (1937) - This picture was taken by Dorothea Lange while she explored “consumer culture” (Quirke 5). She happened to catch two immigrants along the road while they seem to be walking towards a city. These travelers seek shelter and new opportunities. In conclusion the picture depicts new beginnings after a possible dispossession. 

“Ex-Slave and Wife on Steps of Plantation, Now in Decay”(1937) - In this photo you can see the effects of the Great Depression due to the plantation no longer being able to make money, while the young white man is no longer able to command his slaves. Even though the slaves ran away from the South, northerners did not bring Liberty reminding viewers that Southern paternalism is still present. (Quirke 4). 

“Southern Tenant Farmers”(1937)- In this photo you get the chance to see what farmers really looked like and how they dressed during this time period. Looking at the photo you get like a feeling that these men were not used to getting their photo taken, because their positions in the photo seem forced. I feel like they were a little uncomfortable getting their photo taken which is why they all have their hands to their side or crossed. 

2. Why is the photograph "Migrant Mother" considered an iconic image? (p. 6) Why are some recent critics unhappy with the iconic status of this photograph?

Answer:

The photograph “Migrant Mother” became an iconic image of the depression because it was seen as the symbol of the depression. The emotion in the close up shot of the mother bringing in her children in the image encapsulates the heart of the nation. More recent critics were less kind about the piece for a number of reasons. Some of which included criticism of the artwork in the shot and the idea that it encourages viewers to feel better about themselves.

3.Which photograph made the most impression on you, and why? 

Answer: 

The photograph that gave us the strongest impression was “Forgotten Man” because he seemed lost within the crowd of other men trying to get food. Which impressed us because he has an empty cup which in our eyes, strengthens the thought that he was lost and hasn’t got the chance to get food or drink for himself.