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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.

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.