1) In Howard Zinn’s speech “Artists in Times of War” he describes the role of the artist in society.  First, describe the role of artists as Zinn sees it.  Specifically, he asserts that as artists it is our job to “transcend” the current state of reality.  Secondly, explain how you understand this notion of “transcendence”.  Lastly, provide some concrete examples of how artists “transcend” the dominant order (as it is presented to us through the education system, the mass media, political leaders, our families, and society in general) and challenge their immediate reality.  Keep in mind that according to Zinn we are all artists living in times of war.  Taking that into consideration, think about how each of us can critically examine, confront and move beyond the status quo.

Answer one of the following prompts.  Approach the assignment as a personal reflection paper, a conversational piece that critically engages with the topics and ideas discussed during the first four weeks of the course.  I am looking for a thoughtful response that displays you have taken time to analyze the materials covered.  Draw from your lived experiences and connect your responses to your everyday, concrete realities.  Consider the lens through which you view the world, the way you feel, see and experience reality. [Provide at least 2-3 direct quotations from the text under consideration in your response!!]