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1. In what ways is the "Quest for Meaning" represented in the Death of a Salesman and the Hitchcock films (found in this week's module)? Are there contemporary films that parallel these selections?

2. The art works of Kara Walker and Kehinde Wiley approach taboo topics such as religion, sexuality, race, and politics through artistic (re)imaginings. This has been controversial. Explore the works of these two artists and discuss the ways in which their works may be viewed as problematic. In your opinion, does their art address issues of liberation and equality? Support your answers.

3.After reading "Dead Men's Path" by Chinua Achebe and reviewing "Terminal Velocity" by Carolee Schneemann, answer the following:

A)How does Achebe's story illustrate the conflict between tradition and innovation? What might the path in the story symbolize?
B) Does Carolee Schneemann's work go to far? Is it possible to view Schneeman's work as a call to action? Why or Why not?

User Denesha
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Explanation:The theme of "meaning" in Death of a Salesman and Hitchcock films centers around the search for purpose and fulfillment in life. In Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman struggles with his identity and purpose, feeling like a failure in his career and personal life. Similarly, Hitchcock's characters often grapple with existential crises and moral dilemmas. There are contemporary films that parallel these themes, such as American Beauty and The Truman Show.Kara Walker and Kehinde Wiley both address taboo topics through artistic reimaginings. Some view their works as problematic because they can be seen as perpetuating stereotypes or promoting controversial themes. For example, Walker's use of black silhouettes to depict slavery can be viewed as perpetuating harmful stereotypes. However, others argue that their works address issues of liberation and equality by challenging dominant narratives and promoting representation for marginalized groups.

A) Achebe's "Dead Men's Path" illustrates the conflict between tradition and innovation through the clash between the protagonist, who represents innovation and modernity, and the villagers, who represent tradition and customs. The path in the story symbolizes the traditional beliefs and values of the community, which are threatened by the protagonist's modernization efforts.

B) Schneemann's work can be seen as going too far by some because of its graphic and provocative nature, which can be interpreted as objectifying and exploiting women's bodies. However, others argue that her work is a call to action against patriarchy and censorship, and that it challenges traditional notions of gender and sexuality. Ultimately, whether or not her work is viewed as a call to action depends on individual interpretation and perspective.

User Yohan D
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