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In "The Harvest Gypsies" Steinbeck presents facts and information about a historical event in U.S. history-the plight of migrant workers during the Great Depression. He does not use

sensational descriptions of the conditions he found in the migrant camps. He also does not
give his opinion. What effect does Steinbeck's straightforward expository style have on the level of empathy readers feel for the people he describes? Highlight specific evidence from the text that will support your ideas.

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Answer:

Steinbeck's straightforward expository style in "The Harvest Gypsies" allows readers to form their own opinions and conclusions about the migrant workers and their plight. By presenting factual information without imposing his own perspective or using sensational descriptions, Steinbeck enables readers to empathize with the migrant workers on a personal level.

One example of this is Steinbeck's description of the conditions in the migrant camps. Instead of using exaggerated language or emotional appeals, Steinbeck simply reports the facts. He writes, "The toilets are open slits without doors, the water is not too good, and the people are crowded in." This straightforward description allows readers to imagine the discomfort and lack of privacy that the migrants must have experienced.

Similarly, Steinbeck's reporting on the workers' wages is presented in a matter-of-fact tone. He writes, "The pay was five cents a box and a good worker could make fifty cents a day." This information, without any commentary or judgment from the author, allows readers to draw their own conclusions about the unfairness and exploitation of the workers.

Overall, Steinbeck's straightforward expository style in "The Harvest Gypsies" encourages readers to empathize with the migrant workers by allowing them to form their own opinions and conclusions based on the facts presented. By avoiding sensational language or emotional appeals, Steinbeck allows readers to connect with the workers on a personal level and understand the difficulties they faced.

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