Question

In "The American Dream: A Short History of an Idea that Shaped the Nation," Jim Cullen defines the American Dream as fostering traits of confidence and hope, which can be seen in the Puritans, who wanted a better life for themselves and their children. One quote from this chapter that describes the Puritans states, "Their confidence--in themselves, in their sense of mission for their children, and in a God they believed was on their side--impelled them with ruthless zeal to gamble everything for the sake of a vision. In the process, they accomplished the core task in the achievement of any American Dream; they became masters of their own destiny (18)." Think about how this quote from Cullen relates to the central idea of "Upon the Burning of Our House." How do this quote and the poem exemplify the traits of "confidence and hope," key aspects of the American Dream?

A) The quote and the poem both emphasize the importance of material wealth in achieving the American Dream.
B) The quote and the poem both highlight the role of religion and faith in pursuing the American Dream.
C) The quote and the poem have no connection to the concept of the American Dream.
D) The quote and the poem both suggest that the American Dream is unattainable.

Answer 1

The American Dream centers on traits like confidence and hope, key aspects exemplified in the Puritan's vision and the poem "Upon the Burning of Our House," both of which underscore the importance of faith and religion in the pursuit of the dream.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Jim Cullen's definition of the American Dream, particular traits like confidence and hope play a central role, reflected in the aspirations of the Puritans. This concept is connected to the central idea of "Upon the Burning of Our House," a poem that suggests reliance on faith and the eternal rather than material possessions. In this sense, the poem and Cullen's description align by highlighting the role of religion and faith in pursuing the American Dream, the former through resilience and spiritual conviction that material loss cannot detract from hope and confidence in God's providence. The American Dream has evolved through various historical lenses, with American culture striving to uphold aspirations of upward mobility and success, emphasizing opportunity regardless of one's background. The Puritans in Cullen's work and the speaker in the poem both exemplify this dream through their determination and faith, suggesting a deep-seated belief in shaping one's destiny through spiritual fortitude and seizing opportunities.