The first book we started to discuss was Innocents Abroad, otherwise known as "The New Pilgrims Progress", by Mark Twain. This best selling book is about his European voyage on a steam ship.
Ben started of the class presentations by introducing the book from Chapters 1-17. He began by telling us that Twain embarks on his "Excursion to the Holy Land". Throughout these chapters, it's easy to pick up on Twain's feelings. He is often sarcastic and derogatory. Some can even say it's borderline racist. He has an overwhelming sense of nationalism, and sets America up on a pedestal. Now, it's easy to understand this, because it still occurs today.
An example could be when Americans(only knowing American-English) visit a foreign country--native speakers won't understand so Americans will tend to speak louder, as if speaking louder will magically make them understand English. It's things like this that make me laugh, because it's so true! I'm not too sure on why we do that, but I'm guilty of it.
Alexander presented next, discussing Chapters 18-28. Again, we see Twain is derogatory about everything unless it comes it America. I noticed a pattern throughout the text so far. He constantly compares to America. It's no wonder he hasn't enjoyed his trip thus far! When you have great expectations of a place, you will most likely be let down. I realize that sounds pretty pessimistic but it's the cold truth. It's better to travel with an open mind, expecting nothing.
When I traveled to Italy, I didn't expect much because my brother, who previously traveled to Italy, told me not to get my hopes up. He said that everything, such as hotels, as far more different (and smaller) than they are here. I lowered my expectations, and was never disappointed. In fact, my jaw dropped from the moment I stepped off the plane and stay dropped until my very last day there. I wasn't expecting anything and it was easily the best trip of my life.
I feel if he didn't compare every country to America he would have enjoyed his voyage. Every country is unique. If he wasn't so judgemental, I bet he would've found beauty in every place.
3. Gillian Hannum
Remember the little exercise we did during Orientation when I asked people to write down three characteristics that were important to successful travelers? Being open minded showed up on nearly everyone's list!
I love how you link to your classmates' ePs here, Nicole.
02/17/13, 03:24 pm
2. Krystle Tawil
I agree 100% with Alyssa's comment and your reflection! It was good that you did not have high hopes or expectations when you went to Italy! It's always good to travel to a place with a clear mind, so every thing you see is beautiful and you can just enjoy the vacation! I also agree that Twain did compare everything to America, which is what really lead to his disappointment with the places he visited. Good reflection!!
02/10/13, 01:56 am
1. Alyssa Delvalle
He would definitely enjoy his trip much more if he stopped being so critical about every little thing. But I think your brother getting your hopes down was the best thing he could have done. it made your trip all that more exciting when you found out he was wrong! Twain had an idea of the places he visited, and high exceptions. He sadly was disappointed because his hopes was too high.
Even so, he's still waaaayyyyy too critical for my taste!
02/09/13, 05:31 am