Answer:
The assassination of the president in "American History" by Judith Ortiz Cofer has both an amplifying and minimizing effect on the importance of Elena's suffering:
1. Adds to the importance of Elena's suffering:
The national tragedy and the ensuing chaos highlight the harsh realities of Elena's life. The turbulent environment mirrors the instability she experiences on a personal level, emphasizing the significance of her struggles.
2. Minimizes the importance of Elena's suffering:
The attention and concern of the community become fixated on the larger event, overshadowing Elena's individual hardships. Her personal struggles may be seen as inconsequential in the face of a national tragedy, causing her suffering to be overlooked.
3. Adds to the importance of Elena's suffering:
The assassination serves as a metaphor for the loss of innocence and stability in both the country and Elena's life. The parallel emphasizes the profound impact of Elena's experiences, connecting her suffering to broader societal issues.
4. Minimizes the importance of Elena's suffering:
The collective grief and mourning for the president may marginalize Elena's personal pain. The magnitude of the national tragedy may diminish the significance of her individual struggles, making it harder for others to empathize with her situation.
In conclusion, the assassination of the president in "American History" simultaneously intensifies and diminishes the importance of Elena's suffering. It underscores the connection between personal and historical events, while also diverting attention away from her individual challenges.