Question

This selection presents Mann's view of Indian societies in New England. Evaluate how successfully he achieves his purpose by writing a brief argument.

a) Mann successfully achieved his purpose by presenting a nuanced view of Indian societies.
b) Mann failed to achieve his purpose due to a lack of convincing evidence.
c) The style and content of Mann's writing are strong and persuasive.
d) Mann's writing lacks clarity and coherence, impacting its persuasiveness.

Answer 1

Mann successfully conveys the complex historical relationship and cultural conflict between the Puritan settlers and Native American societies in New England, providing a nuanced view that aligns with his intention to present factual historical narratives while also effectively challenging conventional expectations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Evaluating whether Mann achieves his purpose in presenting Indian societies in New England involves analyzing his writing style, evidence, and persuasiveness. Based on various literary interpretations, one could argue that Mann's nuanced view and detailed historical context as seen with his assessment of the Puritans' intentions and the Praying Towns, for instance, suggest that he likely achieves his goal.

Mann's presentation of the historical relations and cultural conflict, as embodied in the directive to Christianize Indian societies and the resulting complex social dynamics, indicates his intent to both meet and challenge conventional expectations in historical narratives.

In discussing the centrally transformative events such as the Pequot War and the transition of the Puritan colonies into the Dominion of New England, Mann's argument presents both the purposes of the English settlers and the responses from native communities. There is an implication of success in blending historical fact with rhetorical effectiveness to convey a comprehensive view of these societies and the cultural exchange between them.