300 words Part 1

Over the years, one of the main focuses of the Humanities has been the “struggles” of many of the historical figures and all that they had to go through to become the giants that they were destined to be. Some of these figures suffered from mental illness, depression, and drug addiction. They had to overcome a number of obstacles. Overall, they suffered as they created the art that we have come to know and love. Some of those figures include, Vincent van Gogh, Emily Dickinson, Oscar Wilde, Virginia Woolf, Ray Charles, and Elvis Presley. In addition to struggling with their personal demons, some of these artists were only recognized posthumously (after their deaths).

Many would argue that today’s artists, entertainers, and writers have to face few struggles, if any. Today’s entertainers became overnight sensations because of vehicles like YouTube and shows like The Voice and American Idol. Instead of spending years as a “starving artist,” one million views on YouTube can catapult a virtual unknown person into the spotlight. Once a video goes viral on the Internet, life for the featured “star” of that video will forever be changed.

In light of today’s technology, is there such a thing as a “struggle” anymore? Explain your reasoning by giving examples.

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300 words Part 2

Discuss your feelings about the assignment to keep a journal during this course. What is exciting about it? What fresh ideas about journal writing pop into your head that might help others in the class? What gives you problems with journal writing? Fears? Questions? Maybe you have kept a journal previously; please share your experience.