In reading the essay "Pernicious Effects Which Arise from the Unnatural Distinctions Established in Society," my first thought was basically what does the title mean? Not only is it long and wordy, but it's a bit confusing. As a matter of fact, reading this entire essay was confusing. I picked up some of Wollstoncrafts main ideas, yet it was always after reading through a bunch of wordy, prolonged analogies and metaphors. I felt like she said what she was trying to say, but using too many words. I don't know if it was meant as entertainment, or if she felt it was needed. Either way, for me, her style of writing sort of took away from what she was trying to say. Ultimately, taking away from the reader, and in this case that was me!
One of the most quotes that stuck out to me the most was pertaining to a phrase I grew up commonly hearing. "Whoever the devil finds idle he will employ" (Wollstoncraft 748). My grandmother would always tell me and my brother that idle hands are the devils playground. In reading this quote, my mind immediately jumped to my grandmother's warning. It astonished me that even in the late 18th century, such proverbs were circulating. I also believe this quote ties into Wollstoncraft's beliefs in what happens to individuals who are born to wealth and have nothing to do.
As individuals born into a life of wealth and privilege they are are not likely to work as the average person is required to in order to live and function in the world. It is because of this fact that these individuals find themselves alive but not living life. "Hereditary property sophisticates the mind, and the unfortunate victims of it..." (Wolstoncraft 749). I believe that this is true. Those individuals that don't have to work for a living tend to not appreciate the things they have or acquire, because they have not had to struggle and work hard to attain them. In essence, these people are getting by on their wealth and not living their life.
Wollstoncraft, Mary. "Pernicious Effects Which Arise from the Unnatural Distinctions Established in Society."A World of Ideas: Essential Readings for College Writers. Ed. Lee A. Jacobus. 7th ed. New York: Bedford/St. Martins. 2006. pp.748-758.
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3 comments:
I liked how you put a personal spin on this, both with a story and then your opinion about the reading. I thought it took away from her message as well...too many words.
I like your blog because you used a quote that stuck out to you, which I think is interesting because a lot of times its hard to find quotes that do that.
Very nicely done, great deal of details outlining your stand point and arguments
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