April 11th at 11am, Randolph Free Library worked with us, Thomas Scullion and Daniela Rodriguez, on our Big Read event on The Great Gatsby: Advertisements, Identity & The American Dream.
When we first began to think about what event we wanted to do, we did research on Advertisements and the American Dream. We found these topics interesting, and used the discussions from class to create a program that would really give us some perspective on what the Randolph community believed was the ideal "American Dream," all while incorporating advertisements and identity.
As we began to explore ideas, we found that identity and the "American Dream" go beyond just being born in the United States, having citizenship, or having money and materials. We decided to show Randolph how just one room of people could be so diverse. With ZeeMaps, we were able to show everyone how our identities vary in location and heritage.
This map gave us a good perspective on our identities, and this was only a room of 7 people. Once this visual was presented, we were able to enter into a discussion that allowed us to open up the floor for all kinds of perspectives and ideas on how The Great Gatsby portrayed these ideals, and how we agreed or disagreed. Our participants all believed that identity was not based on just being born in the United States, nor what we owned. The dream consisted of happiness with where we were in our lives, being able to have and live out our dreams, no matter how big or small they may be.
The Great Gatsby also gave us perspective on what the media can often insinuate of happiness and being "American." Although the majority of what we see everyday consists of consumer products, advertisements, and merchandise, that does not verify or deny our identity as Americans. We can be American with or without the expectations that are booming in our culture, both in the Gatsby era and today.
Then, we proceeded to explore our own ideas of the American Identity! We chose to do a craft, which allowed everyone to cut out advertisements and decorate the take-away sheet (below) as they felt fit.
Each individual made a beautiful creation, and they all had fun doing it! Crafts were personalized, and everyone was able to express themselves, all while showcasing their identity.
The environment was warm, welcoming, and so much fun. Everyone shared their creations, ideas, and identities, creating such an open and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone to be a part of. Randolph Library, and their wonderful director, Ellen Beck, truly held up the standards to being the "Best Smallest Library." The Great Gatsby was received with open minds, and wonderful ideas were passed around with grace and kindness.
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