Individualism

             Individualism has always been close and dear to American hearts. Even since colonial days, Americans have fought for and displayed individualism. Americans thrive on their differences and ideals to run their daily lives. The four stories Daisy Miller, Back to Babylon, Invisible Man, and Death of a Salesman display just that.
             The first story Daisy Miller, by Henry James, is about an American female in European culture. Daisy, as you can see from her name, is a very plain and common girl. There is nothing royal or elite about her. On the other hand, she meets a Swiss man named Winterbourne. As you can tell from his name, he is very pristine and distinguished. This in a sense describes the vast difference in characters that compose America and other countries. The men around Daisy perceived her as a stereotypical American flirt.
             On Daisy's trip to Italy, she once again meets a man. Apparently, Daisy has an attraction to the foreign folk, this time an Italian chap named Giovanelli. He and Winterbourne constantly are fighting over the courting over Daisy. Finally, Daisy's "flirting" got the best of her. She contracted Roman fever and passed away. From that point on, men were always in arguments, blaming each other for Daisy's death. This shows how American ideals can effect other societies. Winterbourne, Giovanelli, and others were so enthralled by this American, it ultimately ended up in death.
             Fitzgerald's Back to Babylon also portrays Americans as different than their European counterparts. This story is about a wealthy American female who is falling for a French playboy. Here, Fitzgerald displays the Americans as individuals who are intrigued by foreigners. Americans have fought for separation for centuries, however ironically we cannot get enough of other countries. In the story, the American and Frenchman get married. They are a perfect match for one another, both drunks and separated f
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Individualism. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 04:47, May 20, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/52933.html