Here is my abstract. I have separated and explained each element of my thesis so that it becomes more clear and important to the reader. This is not required, just another way/format to tackle the abstract section.
Historical misrepresentation in cinema: A Case Study of “The Green Berets.”
Author: Chad McGartlin
Since its inception, cinema has attempted to portray historical events for varying reasons and with varying outcomes. At the height of the Vietnam War, one such film, “The Green Berets” was scripted by the Pentagon (the central nervous system of the United States CIA and military) and propagated by a very famous pro-war conservative actor; John Wayne. Furthermore, released in 1968, the movie was intended to combat a growing opposition to the Vietnam War and display U.S. policy in that country as being valuable and morally correct. The aim of this investigation was to cross-reference actual testimony of soldiers, citizens and government policy makers to the portrayal of these individuals and their citations within the movie. The outcome was shocking. By viewing the movie thoroughly and looking for key points in which citizens and soldier make specific claims, and then researching the diaries of people who participated in the event, this study argues four main points: 1) That although the movie portrays U.S. soldiers as in support of the war, many, in fact were not; 2) That although the movie portrays the South Vietnamese public as being for U.S. help and occupation of their country in the fight against communism, many did not care or were outwardly against U.S. occupation; 3) that the events that occurred at Mai-Lai, portrayed in the movie as being perpetrated by North Vietnamese in conjunction with the NLF, were actually based on actual soldier testimony, a massacre of innocent South Vietnamese civilians by U.S. troops; 4) That the characterization of the media as being leftist, anti-war and largely uninformed is somewhat accurate in that they were mainly a mouthing a stance that the war was a poor decision and the U.S. should not be involved, however, their reporting of information, and participation in the war were based on accurate evidence and first-hand experience. By using compilations of letters home from soldiers, their diaries, and media clips, this project and its accurate discrediting of the film will hopefully raise awarenesss of the issue of cinema in film in the larger context.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
12 - Conclusion
Here is my conclusion with an example of each of the four strategies for leaving an impression (in parenthesis at the beginning of each sentence; each example corresponds to the strategy outlined in the Conclusion handout):
Within the short history of cinema, there is a longstanding trend to attempt to represent historical events; some accurate and some manipulated. In the Movie “The Green Berets” about a U.S. special operations unit in the Vietnam War there are many historical inaccuracies in areas such as the soldiers and Vietnamese opinions about each other and the war, the Vietnamese opinion about U.S. troops, The events at Mai-Lai, and the portrayal of the media exist to a large degree which distort the reality of that war and create a false sense of righteousness about the United States. By researching the background of events and primary accounts of soldiers and citizens who took part in the Vietnam war and cross-referencing them with the film, an overall assessment of the inaccuracy of “The Green Berets” was reached. (1) In historical Context, “The Green Berets” was a popular film starring a western and conservative icon, John Wayne. Its impact upon the war movement, regardless of its accuracy, is an ethical dilemma that the public must be able to notice and view with scrutiny in order to maintain historical truth about the Vietnam War. (2) As a generation who has been raised on and impacted by cinema, hopefully the youth will work to notice such manipulation and questions its accuracy. (3) As we move into an era where special effects, technology, and funding increase exponentially, it is vital that we consider and question this behavior by Hollywood and see film for what it is; entertainment. (4) As a previous generation gathered around the radio to listen to (and in most cases become duped by) Orson Well’s infamous broadcast of H.G. Wells’ “War of the Worlds,” it is imperative that we draw similarities to concepts such as the inaccuracies in cinema today and not allow them to shape our view of history.
Within the short history of cinema, there is a longstanding trend to attempt to represent historical events; some accurate and some manipulated. In the Movie “The Green Berets” about a U.S. special operations unit in the Vietnam War there are many historical inaccuracies in areas such as the soldiers and Vietnamese opinions about each other and the war, the Vietnamese opinion about U.S. troops, The events at Mai-Lai, and the portrayal of the media exist to a large degree which distort the reality of that war and create a false sense of righteousness about the United States. By researching the background of events and primary accounts of soldiers and citizens who took part in the Vietnam war and cross-referencing them with the film, an overall assessment of the inaccuracy of “The Green Berets” was reached. (1) In historical Context, “The Green Berets” was a popular film starring a western and conservative icon, John Wayne. Its impact upon the war movement, regardless of its accuracy, is an ethical dilemma that the public must be able to notice and view with scrutiny in order to maintain historical truth about the Vietnam War. (2) As a generation who has been raised on and impacted by cinema, hopefully the youth will work to notice such manipulation and questions its accuracy. (3) As we move into an era where special effects, technology, and funding increase exponentially, it is vital that we consider and question this behavior by Hollywood and see film for what it is; entertainment. (4) As a previous generation gathered around the radio to listen to (and in most cases become duped by) Orson Well’s infamous broadcast of H.G. Wells’ “War of the Worlds,” it is imperative that we draw similarities to concepts such as the inaccuracies in cinema today and not allow them to shape our view of history.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Post 11 - Analysis Paragraph
Topic: The Vietnamese Opinion about the war
Another fallacy related to the film The Green Berets lies in its portrayal of the South Vietnamese Citizens. There are consistent discussions and actions of these citizens which suggest their support and approval of U.S. troops and policy, such as the line of locals seeking medical attention in one particular scene (Kellogg 0:31). This contrasts sharply with current historical view such as that of Don Lawson who expresses the belief that, in general, regiment troops were assigned to save resources and materials for the army and only aid the local population in times of necessity (Lawson 54). Another portrayal of the movie’s South Vietnamese citizens suggests that they were skeptical of communism in their country (Kellogg,: 1:22). This is also opposed by current history as seen in the following quote; “The Southern Vietnamese, for the most part, worked in support of the NLF and in favor of an eventual communist takeover based on their belief in land reforms and the idea that Ngo Dinh Diem was illegitimately elected (McNamara 35).” This quote suggests that, in opposition to the opinion amassed by the film The Green Berets, that the U.S. policy was unpopular in Vietnam and the general population supported communism. Lawson affirms this with even more support by stating that the local population was in many ways not even considering the Cold War context of communism versus capitalism, but in fact, was much more concerned with their own personal benefits (Lawson, 65). This idea coupled with the aforementioned quote by McNamara show that, for the most part, the Vietnamese population reacted very differently to the situation of U.S. struggle and occupation than as portrayed in the film.
***Notice that the structure of the handout is applied to the paragraph. there is a topic sentence, proof and explanation of research, argument or relationship to your thesis statement, and a concluding or transitional sentence. Stick to this structure and tie everything in to your thesis statement and you can't go wrong!
Another fallacy related to the film The Green Berets lies in its portrayal of the South Vietnamese Citizens. There are consistent discussions and actions of these citizens which suggest their support and approval of U.S. troops and policy, such as the line of locals seeking medical attention in one particular scene (Kellogg 0:31). This contrasts sharply with current historical view such as that of Don Lawson who expresses the belief that, in general, regiment troops were assigned to save resources and materials for the army and only aid the local population in times of necessity (Lawson 54). Another portrayal of the movie’s South Vietnamese citizens suggests that they were skeptical of communism in their country (Kellogg,: 1:22). This is also opposed by current history as seen in the following quote; “The Southern Vietnamese, for the most part, worked in support of the NLF and in favor of an eventual communist takeover based on their belief in land reforms and the idea that Ngo Dinh Diem was illegitimately elected (McNamara 35).” This quote suggests that, in opposition to the opinion amassed by the film The Green Berets, that the U.S. policy was unpopular in Vietnam and the general population supported communism. Lawson affirms this with even more support by stating that the local population was in many ways not even considering the Cold War context of communism versus capitalism, but in fact, was much more concerned with their own personal benefits (Lawson, 65). This idea coupled with the aforementioned quote by McNamara show that, for the most part, the Vietnamese population reacted very differently to the situation of U.S. struggle and occupation than as portrayed in the film.
***Notice that the structure of the handout is applied to the paragraph. there is a topic sentence, proof and explanation of research, argument or relationship to your thesis statement, and a concluding or transitional sentence. Stick to this structure and tie everything in to your thesis statement and you can't go wrong!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
10 - Background Paragraph
Topic: Background about the Vietnam War.
In 1964, the United States entered into conflict in Vietnam due to multiple reasons such as Cold War paranoia and the inability of France to continue to commit financially and militarily in the region. The course and impact of the war have been a polemic issue in the histories of both countries involved as well as in the global sphere. As historian Howard Zinn stated, “From 1964 to 1972, the wealthiest and most powerful nation in the history of the world made a maximum military effort, with everything short of atomic bombs, to defeat a nationalist revolutionary movement in a tiny, peasant country-and failed. When the United States fought in Vietnam, it was organized modern technology versus organized human beings, and the human beings won.” (Zinn, 689). This quote further displays the importance and extent of the Vietnam War (known as the American War in Vietnam). The war was technically fought between the communists in the North and a Democratic Republic in the South. However, the Vietnamese of today recognize the illegitimacy of the Democratic government as it was set up and supported by the United States in the form of an ineffective and religiously anti-Buddhist leader in Ngo Dinh Diem (Burns 0:30). As the aforementioned quote from historian Howard Zinn displays, when the smoke of the Vietnam War cleared, a peasant nation had defeated and embarrassed the richest country (and largest military) in the world. The communists in the North had, in their eyes, defeated the mightiest power on the planet. The U.S. to this date still classifies the results of the war as “Peace with honor” as opposed to admitting defeat.
There were many mistakes made on the part of the United States that led to their withdrawal from this war. The United States felt that their presence in this war was essential to the stability of the world due to the rise in communism at the time (Gaddis 63) but what they failed to factor in was the popularity of Socialist and Communist movements globally in agrarian societies due to the consistent promise of land reform and equality for peasantry (Burns 0:21). The United States also made tactical mistakes in programs such as the “Strategic Hamlet Program” of displacing or “relocating the Vietnamese for safety reasons” (Lawson 65), and their use of enemy body counts as a measurement for success, which, inadvertently led to unnecessary violence by US troops (Gaddis 91) by her own people. In short, for the United States, this war was costly not only in economic factors, but also in self image, national pride, and faith in government. It is factors such as these that have been represented (accurately or falsely) that make The Vietnam War a highly controversial issue in U.S. History.
Word Count: 471
NOTICE THE CHANGES from the sample today. both paragraphs are properly cited. both have a clear topic sentence. I have INCLUDED the citations by using my own sentences to introduce and summarize their meaning and purpose...and finally, yes Neph...i separated them into two different paragraphs to better organize the topics.
So...for our next class, you need to complete, print and hand in ALL of your background paragraphs for the essay!!! YAAAAY!
In 1964, the United States entered into conflict in Vietnam due to multiple reasons such as Cold War paranoia and the inability of France to continue to commit financially and militarily in the region. The course and impact of the war have been a polemic issue in the histories of both countries involved as well as in the global sphere. As historian Howard Zinn stated, “From 1964 to 1972, the wealthiest and most powerful nation in the history of the world made a maximum military effort, with everything short of atomic bombs, to defeat a nationalist revolutionary movement in a tiny, peasant country-and failed. When the United States fought in Vietnam, it was organized modern technology versus organized human beings, and the human beings won.” (Zinn, 689). This quote further displays the importance and extent of the Vietnam War (known as the American War in Vietnam). The war was technically fought between the communists in the North and a Democratic Republic in the South. However, the Vietnamese of today recognize the illegitimacy of the Democratic government as it was set up and supported by the United States in the form of an ineffective and religiously anti-Buddhist leader in Ngo Dinh Diem (Burns 0:30). As the aforementioned quote from historian Howard Zinn displays, when the smoke of the Vietnam War cleared, a peasant nation had defeated and embarrassed the richest country (and largest military) in the world. The communists in the North had, in their eyes, defeated the mightiest power on the planet. The U.S. to this date still classifies the results of the war as “Peace with honor” as opposed to admitting defeat.
There were many mistakes made on the part of the United States that led to their withdrawal from this war. The United States felt that their presence in this war was essential to the stability of the world due to the rise in communism at the time (Gaddis 63) but what they failed to factor in was the popularity of Socialist and Communist movements globally in agrarian societies due to the consistent promise of land reform and equality for peasantry (Burns 0:21). The United States also made tactical mistakes in programs such as the “Strategic Hamlet Program” of displacing or “relocating the Vietnamese for safety reasons” (Lawson 65), and their use of enemy body counts as a measurement for success, which, inadvertently led to unnecessary violence by US troops (Gaddis 91) by her own people. In short, for the United States, this war was costly not only in economic factors, but also in self image, national pride, and faith in government. It is factors such as these that have been represented (accurately or falsely) that make The Vietnam War a highly controversial issue in U.S. History.
Word Count: 471
NOTICE THE CHANGES from the sample today. both paragraphs are properly cited. both have a clear topic sentence. I have INCLUDED the citations by using my own sentences to introduce and summarize their meaning and purpose...and finally, yes Neph...i separated them into two different paragraphs to better organize the topics.
So...for our next class, you need to complete, print and hand in ALL of your background paragraphs for the essay!!! YAAAAY!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Project blog post 9 – Note taking
Here is a cut excerpt from my notes pages: I am using a system of color coding my entries by type and placing the outline numbers at the end of each note in bold type. I have chosen a random source from my bibliography to post. As we have discussed, this fits all three questions that you need to ask yourself when taking notes…Where is it from (source)? Where is it going (Outline)? And what type is it (Quote, paraphrase, or summary)?
**Although the color scheme does not show up in the blog, you have seen the example in class, so remember that it is apparent that each type of note taking is done in a different color for me to know and use later on:
Direct quotes that I may use are in “italics”
Paraphrase is in red
Summary is in green
IN BOLD TYPE, after the citation is the Roman numeral and a very brief description of topic which corresponds to the note’s place within my outline/paper.
***All of my citations include the relevant page number(s) so that I can cite properly, and go back and find it easily if I need to recheck or reread.
EXAMPLE:
Lawson, Don, The United States in the Vietnam War.New York: Thomas Y Crowell, 1981.
“Green Beret Teams included paramedics who were trained to improve the health of rural populations, but the Green Berets were relatively few in number.” (Lawson, 1981, p65) IV (Argument 1 Counterclaim)
Normal regiment doctors took care of U.S. Troops and casualties first, and then, if there were enough time and resources left over, they might help with Civilian Vietnamese injuries and issues. (p54) IV (Argument 1)
Troops were accused of random destruction at times. (p67) II (Background)
The Strategic Hamlet Program failed due to Vietnamese resentment and Vietcong tactics (p64-65) II (Background)
Overall definition and discussion of the “Zippo Brigades” harm in contrast to the VC actions of helping local farmers (p65) V (Argument 2)
To the local population, war was not a question of communism versus capitalism, but one of direct relationship to personal benefit. This was confusing to the US. (p65) V (Argument 2)
***FINAL NOTE: For those of you who prefer handwritten notes, remember, the examples of good note cards are in your Rock at Research guide, and tehre are recycled note cards next to all computers in the library for you to use!
**Although the color scheme does not show up in the blog, you have seen the example in class, so remember that it is apparent that each type of note taking is done in a different color for me to know and use later on:
Direct quotes that I may use are in “italics”
Paraphrase is in red
Summary is in green
IN BOLD TYPE, after the citation is the Roman numeral and a very brief description of topic which corresponds to the note’s place within my outline/paper.
***All of my citations include the relevant page number(s) so that I can cite properly, and go back and find it easily if I need to recheck or reread.
EXAMPLE:
Lawson, Don, The United States in the Vietnam War.New York: Thomas Y Crowell, 1981.
“Green Beret Teams included paramedics who were trained to improve the health of rural populations, but the Green Berets were relatively few in number.” (Lawson, 1981, p65) IV (Argument 1 Counterclaim)
Normal regiment doctors took care of U.S. Troops and casualties first, and then, if there were enough time and resources left over, they might help with Civilian Vietnamese injuries and issues. (p54) IV (Argument 1)
Troops were accused of random destruction at times. (p67) II (Background)
The Strategic Hamlet Program failed due to Vietnamese resentment and Vietcong tactics (p64-65) II (Background)
Overall definition and discussion of the “Zippo Brigades” harm in contrast to the VC actions of helping local farmers (p65) V (Argument 2)
To the local population, war was not a question of communism versus capitalism, but one of direct relationship to personal benefit. This was confusing to the US. (p65) V (Argument 2)
***FINAL NOTE: For those of you who prefer handwritten notes, remember, the examples of good note cards are in your Rock at Research guide, and tehre are recycled note cards next to all computers in the library for you to use!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Post 8: Full list of annotated sources
Keep an eye out for how this develops as I begin to take specific notes under each source. Again, I will not be asking for a specific format (note cards versus word documents) but will be sure that you have divised a system of your own that ensures you have taken adequate and relevant notes from your sources and avoided plagiarism. Also, notice that I have use a variety of source types (primary and secondary; written and audio and film; online and print...etc). This helps to show that you have been holistic and thorough in your efforst and research!
Here is my full annotated bibliography:
Burns, Jennifer. “The Vietnam War.” Podcast. History 7B US History from Civil War to Present . Spring 2006. webcast.berkley. 3 Mar. 2010.
Excellent introductory podcast from a survey course at the University of California Berkley. Provides both background information as well as survey level arguments related to some of my topics. May be useful at multiple points within my essay.
Eldman, Bernard, Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam. New York: Pocket Books Co, 1985.
A compilation of soldiers accounts in vietman from letters they sent home diriung the war which was compiled for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Comission in New York. The exerpts of soldiers in the war will be used most and will make up a large part of the referencing of my paper to document soldiers actual feelings, thoughts and actions in the war to compare with the film. One of my strongest sources.
Gaddis, John L. Strategies of Containment. New York: Oxford University Press, 1982.
Background information about the war and analytical commentary from a leading historian. Also good quotes from soldiers to reference and compare.
Gaius, Shaver R., and Canadell Josep. "The Vietnam War." Public Broadcasting System. PBS.org. Web. 15 Sept. 2010.
A detailed overall view of the Vietnam war, which includes multiple perspectives and many quotes and interviews of soldiers and politicians in the war. This will be my main source of quotation and information to examine in relation to the soldiers in the film.
Herr, Michael, Dispatches. New York: Vintage Books: A division of Random House Publishing Co. 1977.
A well based and popular work of Historical Fiction. I am not sure how or if I will use this book, but it can give insight into both accuracies in research and into how works of art may more accurately protray war as a juxtoposition to the film in question.
Kellog, Ray. The Green Berets. Hollywood California:Paramount Pictures, 1968.
A 1968 film portrayal of the Vietnam War. This is the primary source basis for analysis in my paper. I will use quotes from characters in the movie to display their feelings towards the war.
Lawson, Don, The United States in the Vietnam War.New York: Thomas Y Crowell, 1981.
Very broad overview, but very clearly explained. It is from a series called “The Young Peoples History of America’s Wars” so it may or may not be helpful for argument purposes, but could most likely provide clear contextual background.
Maraniss, David, They Marched Into Sunlight. New York: Simon and Schuster, 2003.
A detailed historical account of soldiers in vietman and their reactions at home. The exerpts of soldiers in the war will be used most and will make up a large part of the referencing of my paper to document soldiers actual feelings, thoughts and actions in the war to compare with the film.
McNamara, Robert, S. In Retrospect: Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam. New York: Vintage Books Random House Inc, 1996
Background information about the war and primary reflection from the U.S. military leader of the war in Vietnam. Will be used for background information, commentary about popularity of the war amongst the military,, as well as comparative insight of the nature of this person in relation to the general in the film.
Palmer, Laura, Shrapnel in the Heart: Letters and remembrances from the Vietnam Veterans
Memorial. New York: Vintage Books: A division of Random House Publishing Co. 1987.
A compilation of soldiers accounts in vietman from letters they sent home diriung the war as well as interviews, diary entries and reactins from their family members. The exerpts of soldiers in the war will be used most and will make up a large part of the referencing of my paper to document soldiers actual feelings, thoughts and actions in the war to compare with the film. One of my strongest sources
Smith, T. E., E. A. Polloway, J. R. Patton, and C. A. Dowdy. "The Green Berets." Internet Movie Database. Web. 14 Sept. 2010.
A movie database website that gives background about the film and its creation. Also has links to articles and reviews that may be useful when looking at the validity of the movie, but mostly will be used for background information.
Summers Jr, Harry G, Vietnam War Almanac. New York: Facts On File Publications,1985.
A general almanac reference of key figures, events and terms within the Vietnam war. This will be used to relate specific people and events as well as to introduce and reference topics. Very general information.
Zinn, Howard. A People’s History of the United States. New York: HarperCollins, 1999.
I will use chapter 18, “The Impossible Victory: Vietnam.” For use in the analysis, this book provides soldiers quotes and secondary analysis by the author that can be cross-referenced with ideas and soldiers views in the movie.
Here is my full annotated bibliography:
Burns, Jennifer. “The Vietnam War.” Podcast. History 7B US History from Civil War to Present . Spring 2006. webcast.berkley. 3 Mar. 2010.
Excellent introductory podcast from a survey course at the University of California Berkley. Provides both background information as well as survey level arguments related to some of my topics. May be useful at multiple points within my essay.
Eldman, Bernard, Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam. New York: Pocket Books Co, 1985.
A compilation of soldiers accounts in vietman from letters they sent home diriung the war which was compiled for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Comission in New York. The exerpts of soldiers in the war will be used most and will make up a large part of the referencing of my paper to document soldiers actual feelings, thoughts and actions in the war to compare with the film. One of my strongest sources.
Gaddis, John L. Strategies of Containment. New York: Oxford University Press, 1982.
Background information about the war and analytical commentary from a leading historian. Also good quotes from soldiers to reference and compare.
Gaius, Shaver R., and Canadell Josep. "The Vietnam War." Public Broadcasting System. PBS.org. Web. 15 Sept. 2010.
A detailed overall view of the Vietnam war, which includes multiple perspectives and many quotes and interviews of soldiers and politicians in the war. This will be my main source of quotation and information to examine in relation to the soldiers in the film.
Herr, Michael, Dispatches. New York: Vintage Books: A division of Random House Publishing Co. 1977.
A well based and popular work of Historical Fiction. I am not sure how or if I will use this book, but it can give insight into both accuracies in research and into how works of art may more accurately protray war as a juxtoposition to the film in question.
Kellog, Ray. The Green Berets. Hollywood California:Paramount Pictures, 1968.
A 1968 film portrayal of the Vietnam War. This is the primary source basis for analysis in my paper. I will use quotes from characters in the movie to display their feelings towards the war.
Lawson, Don, The United States in the Vietnam War.New York: Thomas Y Crowell, 1981.
Very broad overview, but very clearly explained. It is from a series called “The Young Peoples History of America’s Wars” so it may or may not be helpful for argument purposes, but could most likely provide clear contextual background.
Maraniss, David, They Marched Into Sunlight. New York: Simon and Schuster, 2003.
A detailed historical account of soldiers in vietman and their reactions at home. The exerpts of soldiers in the war will be used most and will make up a large part of the referencing of my paper to document soldiers actual feelings, thoughts and actions in the war to compare with the film.
McNamara, Robert, S. In Retrospect: Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam. New York: Vintage Books Random House Inc, 1996
Background information about the war and primary reflection from the U.S. military leader of the war in Vietnam. Will be used for background information, commentary about popularity of the war amongst the military,, as well as comparative insight of the nature of this person in relation to the general in the film.
Palmer, Laura, Shrapnel in the Heart: Letters and remembrances from the Vietnam Veterans
Memorial. New York: Vintage Books: A division of Random House Publishing Co. 1987.
A compilation of soldiers accounts in vietman from letters they sent home diriung the war as well as interviews, diary entries and reactins from their family members. The exerpts of soldiers in the war will be used most and will make up a large part of the referencing of my paper to document soldiers actual feelings, thoughts and actions in the war to compare with the film. One of my strongest sources
Smith, T. E., E. A. Polloway, J. R. Patton, and C. A. Dowdy. "The Green Berets." Internet Movie Database. Web. 14 Sept. 2010.
A movie database website that gives background about the film and its creation. Also has links to articles and reviews that may be useful when looking at the validity of the movie, but mostly will be used for background information.
Summers Jr, Harry G, Vietnam War Almanac. New York: Facts On File Publications,1985.
A general almanac reference of key figures, events and terms within the Vietnam war. This will be used to relate specific people and events as well as to introduce and reference topics. Very general information.
Zinn, Howard. A People’s History of the United States. New York: HarperCollins, 1999.
I will use chapter 18, “The Impossible Victory: Vietnam.” For use in the analysis, this book provides soldiers quotes and secondary analysis by the author that can be cross-referenced with ideas and soldiers views in the movie.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Post 7: Preliminary Outline
Here is my version of a preliminary outline based on my topic. Notice that although i left space for 4 argument paragraphs, I have yet to title them because I have yet to fully conduct research. This is a changing concept and the outline will begin to take better shape as we research.
I. Introduction
A. Context
B. Research Question
C. Process
II. Background about the Vietnam War
A. General Views
B. General Causes
C. General Effects
III. Background about portrayal of war in film
A. Uses of war and film
1. Positives
2. Negatives
B. Examples of war and film
1. Positives
2. Negatives
IV. Background about the film “The Green Berets”
A. Making of
B. Plot
C. Popularity and reviews
V. Transition
A. Context of the argument
B. Thesis Statement
VI. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
VII. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
VIII. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
IX. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
X. Conclusion
A. Thesis Restatement
B. Counterclaim
C. Other Issues
I. Introduction
A. Context
B. Research Question
C. Process
II. Background about the Vietnam War
A. General Views
B. General Causes
C. General Effects
III. Background about portrayal of war in film
A. Uses of war and film
1. Positives
2. Negatives
B. Examples of war and film
1. Positives
2. Negatives
IV. Background about the film “The Green Berets”
A. Making of
B. Plot
C. Popularity and reviews
V. Transition
A. Context of the argument
B. Thesis Statement
VI. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
VII. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
VIII. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
IX. Argument 1 - ??
A. Portrayal in movie
B. Evidence from historical sources
C. Analysis
X. Conclusion
A. Thesis Restatement
B. Counterclaim
C. Other Issues
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Post 6 - Annotated Bibliography First Draft
Gaddis, John L. Strategies of Containment. New York: Oxford University Press, 1982.
Background information about the war and analytical commentary from a leading historian. Also good quotes from soldiers to reference and compare.
Gaius, Shaver R., and Canadell Josep. "The Vietnam War." Public Broadcasting System. PBS.org. Web. 15 Sept. 2010.
A detailed overall view of the Vietnam war, which includes multiple perspectives and many quotes and interviews of soldiers and politicians in the war. This will be my main source of quotation and information to examine in relation to the soldiers in the film.
Kellog, Ray. The Green Berets. Hollywood California:Paramount Pictures, 1968.
A 1968 film portrayal of the Vietnam War. This is the primary source basis for analysis in my paper. I will use quotes from characters in the movie to display their feelings towards the war.
McNamara, Robert, S. In Retrospect: Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam. New York: Vintage Books Random House Inc, 1996
Background information about the war and primary reflection from the U.S. military leader of the war in Vietnam. Will be used for background information, commentary about popularity of the war amongst the military,, as well as comparative insight of the nature of this person in relation to the general in the film.
Smith, T. E., E. A. Polloway, J. R. Patton, and C. A. Dowdy. "The Green Berets." Internet Movie Database. Web. 14 Sept. 2010.
A movie database website that gives background about the film and its creation. Also has links to articles and reviews that may be useful when looking at the validity of the movie, but mostly will be used for background information.
Zinn, Howard. A People’s History of the United States. New York: HarperCollins, 1999.
I will use chapter 18, “The Impossible Victory: Vietnam.” For use in the analysis, this book provides soldiers quotes and secondary analysis by the author that can be cross-referenced with ideas and soldiers views in the movie.
Background information about the war and analytical commentary from a leading historian. Also good quotes from soldiers to reference and compare.
Gaius, Shaver R., and Canadell Josep. "The Vietnam War." Public Broadcasting System. PBS.org. Web. 15 Sept. 2010.
A detailed overall view of the Vietnam war, which includes multiple perspectives and many quotes and interviews of soldiers and politicians in the war. This will be my main source of quotation and information to examine in relation to the soldiers in the film.
Kellog, Ray. The Green Berets. Hollywood California:Paramount Pictures, 1968.
A 1968 film portrayal of the Vietnam War. This is the primary source basis for analysis in my paper. I will use quotes from characters in the movie to display their feelings towards the war.
McNamara, Robert, S. In Retrospect: Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam. New York: Vintage Books Random House Inc, 1996
Background information about the war and primary reflection from the U.S. military leader of the war in Vietnam. Will be used for background information, commentary about popularity of the war amongst the military,, as well as comparative insight of the nature of this person in relation to the general in the film.
Smith, T. E., E. A. Polloway, J. R. Patton, and C. A. Dowdy. "The Green Berets." Internet Movie Database. Web. 14 Sept. 2010.
A movie database website that gives background about the film and its creation. Also has links to articles and reviews that may be useful when looking at the validity of the movie, but mostly will be used for background information.
Zinn, Howard. A People’s History of the United States. New York: HarperCollins, 1999.
I will use chapter 18, “The Impossible Victory: Vietnam.” For use in the analysis, this book provides soldiers quotes and secondary analysis by the author that can be cross-referenced with ideas and soldiers views in the movie.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Project Blog post 5 – Research question and plan of investigation (formal introduction)
My research question:
To extent do the opinions, feelings and actions of the portrayed U.S. soldiers in the movie "The Green Berets" reflect the true opinions, feelings and actions of U.S. soldiers in the Vietnam War?
Part A: Plan of the Investigation
Cinema has often been used to depict historical events, and in particular, the atrocities and emotions of war. This practice has been conducted with varying degrees of purpose and intention. The film, "The Green Berets" (1968) is one such polemic film. There are many controversial topics surrounding this movie such as its manipulation by the Pentagon to drum up pro-war support, and the portrayal of the media as naive and uninformed. Despite these ideas, I have chosen to research the question: To extent do the opinions, feelings and actions of the portrayed soldiers in the movie "The Green Berets" reflect the true opinions, feelings and actions of soldiers in the Vietnam War? By gaining background information about the movie and its possible intentions via secondary sources such as the Internet Movie Database, and movie reviews in general and looking at the overall feelings conjured up during the war, I will produce some background insight into the movie and place it in context of the war. The I plan on looking at the views of soldiers and their feelings and responses in the movie in relation to primary source interviews and accounts of actual soldiers in the event. My hope is to examine the overall purpose and effect of cinematic manipulation by viewing "The Green Berets" as a case study within the overall picture of this issue.
+++NOTICE:
for those of you that read this, I'd like to specifically point out the components of this plan of investigation. For FULL POINTS, please see that the research question, context and scope of the investigation, types of sources to consult, and possible outcomes are all present!
Good Luck with your first official section!
To extent do the opinions, feelings and actions of the portrayed U.S. soldiers in the movie "The Green Berets" reflect the true opinions, feelings and actions of U.S. soldiers in the Vietnam War?
Part A: Plan of the Investigation
Cinema has often been used to depict historical events, and in particular, the atrocities and emotions of war. This practice has been conducted with varying degrees of purpose and intention. The film, "The Green Berets" (1968) is one such polemic film. There are many controversial topics surrounding this movie such as its manipulation by the Pentagon to drum up pro-war support, and the portrayal of the media as naive and uninformed. Despite these ideas, I have chosen to research the question: To extent do the opinions, feelings and actions of the portrayed soldiers in the movie "The Green Berets" reflect the true opinions, feelings and actions of soldiers in the Vietnam War? By gaining background information about the movie and its possible intentions via secondary sources such as the Internet Movie Database, and movie reviews in general and looking at the overall feelings conjured up during the war, I will produce some background insight into the movie and place it in context of the war. The I plan on looking at the views of soldiers and their feelings and responses in the movie in relation to primary source interviews and accounts of actual soldiers in the event. My hope is to examine the overall purpose and effect of cinematic manipulation by viewing "The Green Berets" as a case study within the overall picture of this issue.
+++NOTICE:
for those of you that read this, I'd like to specifically point out the components of this plan of investigation. For FULL POINTS, please see that the research question, context and scope of the investigation, types of sources to consult, and possible outcomes are all present!
Good Luck with your first official section!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Post 3; Choosing A Topic - Narrowing my ideas
So i've mulled over things for a day or two on topics and what i had brainstormed previously. I'm still a little stuck. at the moment, my main problems seem to stem from worrying about the language barrier, and not knowing much about the library and possible resources. In my google playing today (i messed around for about 30 more minutes) i did consider looking at one of the really hokey history movies i've seen in the past (Titanic, Pearl Harbor...etc) and, as an argumentative essay, discuss why it is and isnt in line with the actual history. I like the idea, but i'd want to pick a movie that hasn't been overdone (there was A LOT out there about how badly innacurate Pearl Harbor was). Just a thought. Hmmm...I think I'll watch a movie now instead of grading your work!!!
In total, i've probably spent about 2 hours of my life thinking about this project and I dont have a clue yet. I'm going to have to get focused and make a clear decision soon so that you guys dont start getting ahead of me.
In total, i've probably spent about 2 hours of my life thinking about this project and I dont have a clue yet. I'm going to have to get focused and make a clear decision soon so that you guys dont start getting ahead of me.
Post 2: Day 1 - Brainstorming a topic
Ok, so no we're starting off with what is the most important part of the process...choosing a topic.
I know that it seems like the easiest, but thats just not true. It is CRITICAL that you consider possible topics and choose something that is right for you and for the task. Many students in the past have simply chosen either a basic research project (without considering available sources or the argumentative nature of the topic) or something they just plain like and think will be easy (which, in my experience never is...usually these topics are too ambiguous and therefore unanswerable through research). The important thing here is to take the time to branstorm possible interests and then narrow them down based on three main concepts...1) is it argumantative and original? 2) are there resources at my disposal which make me able to conduct proper research? and 3) do i like it (but not too much) or am i going to lose interest?
***Lets look at these three ideas separately and then i will walk you through my own thoughts on my own personal research project.
1) This is, in my opinion, the most important of the three...basically...can my topic be examined through a process of either research, interview, or experimentation. AND has someone already done this to the point where it is useless (i.e. have multiple books/entire volumes of research been done on the subject therefore making a 2000 word paper on the subject a bit broad and futile?)
2) When i look around the library/environment...etc. am i sure i will be able to find answers to my ideas? this is somewhat less important now with the advancement of technology, but still, if my topic requires samples of cured lamb meat from Mongolia, or interviews from an aboriginal tribe in Vanuatu, i may want to reconsider. You cannot rely heavily on background knowledge. Encyclopedias and wikipedia are for background knowledge at best (if at all). But, more on this later.
3) This is a slippery slope. I do, i swear, want you to enjoy your topic. music, however, is not a topic, it is an entire world. you must be very specific and understand the implications of your topic. to conduct a research or experimental based task, you must have the right idea of what you are doing, without letting too much personal interest could your ideas. sure it would be fun to listen to Mariah Carey (or whatever you teenie-boppers listen to at the sock-hop) all day, but thats not going to write your paper. You will most likely have to do something related to physics or tone to make that happen!
*****
OK...so now im going to think about what i like, where i am, and how i can make a plan of action for the ideas that come up. My mind always leans towards the historical side of things, but this should NOT stop you from choosing papers and projects on literary analysis, scientific experiment or social issues such as the impact of ipods upon the traditional family unit. Look at topics from the angle that suits you best!
• I love food (can you tell?) so for me, cuisine and history is always a topic of interest. specific dishes, culturally related techniques and utencils or known restaurants make for easy and well developed essays. But i dont speak Greek so this may be difficult.
• I like futbol...i could do the history of a stadium, club, fan club, impact of a player or specific moment in the history of futbol. this could work out even better if i have access to either interviews or archives. Espeically if i choose something here in Cyprus, but again, there's the Greek language barrier.
• I like history but since I am teaching 3 sections of it this year, and since i have done many history papers in my life, i'd prefer to try something new, y'know, to break the monotony a little. We'll see...however, Cyprus is very new to me having only been here for 6 months (most of which i've spent in this building we call school with these things we call students), so that is an option. I'm not much for ancient history, so if i do this i would prefer a modern paper such as NGO work being done on the island or something in relation to the UN or US Embassy. This could also complement my inability to speek Greek.
• I like film too, so maybe something related to cinema would be nice, but I'm not sure about resources and access to necessary interviews/documents...etc here on the island. hmmm, may be difficult.
• OR...i could combine these, the history of film or the history of a futbol something. Im gonna spend a few minutes on google. just basics (searching for Cyprus and film for example) and see what i come up with.Allright, 30 minutes later and im a bit stuck. I'm gonna work on something else for a while, put it all on the back of my mind and come back to it later when im fresh, maybe after dinner...mmm dinner!
I know that it seems like the easiest, but thats just not true. It is CRITICAL that you consider possible topics and choose something that is right for you and for the task. Many students in the past have simply chosen either a basic research project (without considering available sources or the argumentative nature of the topic) or something they just plain like and think will be easy (which, in my experience never is...usually these topics are too ambiguous and therefore unanswerable through research). The important thing here is to take the time to branstorm possible interests and then narrow them down based on three main concepts...1) is it argumantative and original? 2) are there resources at my disposal which make me able to conduct proper research? and 3) do i like it (but not too much) or am i going to lose interest?
***Lets look at these three ideas separately and then i will walk you through my own thoughts on my own personal research project.
1) This is, in my opinion, the most important of the three...basically...can my topic be examined through a process of either research, interview, or experimentation. AND has someone already done this to the point where it is useless (i.e. have multiple books/entire volumes of research been done on the subject therefore making a 2000 word paper on the subject a bit broad and futile?)
2) When i look around the library/environment...etc. am i sure i will be able to find answers to my ideas? this is somewhat less important now with the advancement of technology, but still, if my topic requires samples of cured lamb meat from Mongolia, or interviews from an aboriginal tribe in Vanuatu, i may want to reconsider. You cannot rely heavily on background knowledge. Encyclopedias and wikipedia are for background knowledge at best (if at all). But, more on this later.
3) This is a slippery slope. I do, i swear, want you to enjoy your topic. music, however, is not a topic, it is an entire world. you must be very specific and understand the implications of your topic. to conduct a research or experimental based task, you must have the right idea of what you are doing, without letting too much personal interest could your ideas. sure it would be fun to listen to Mariah Carey (or whatever you teenie-boppers listen to at the sock-hop) all day, but thats not going to write your paper. You will most likely have to do something related to physics or tone to make that happen!
*****
OK...so now im going to think about what i like, where i am, and how i can make a plan of action for the ideas that come up. My mind always leans towards the historical side of things, but this should NOT stop you from choosing papers and projects on literary analysis, scientific experiment or social issues such as the impact of ipods upon the traditional family unit. Look at topics from the angle that suits you best!
• I love food (can you tell?) so for me, cuisine and history is always a topic of interest. specific dishes, culturally related techniques and utencils or known restaurants make for easy and well developed essays. But i dont speak Greek so this may be difficult.
• I like futbol...i could do the history of a stadium, club, fan club, impact of a player or specific moment in the history of futbol. this could work out even better if i have access to either interviews or archives. Espeically if i choose something here in Cyprus, but again, there's the Greek language barrier.
• I like history but since I am teaching 3 sections of it this year, and since i have done many history papers in my life, i'd prefer to try something new, y'know, to break the monotony a little. We'll see...however, Cyprus is very new to me having only been here for 6 months (most of which i've spent in this building we call school with these things we call students), so that is an option. I'm not much for ancient history, so if i do this i would prefer a modern paper such as NGO work being done on the island or something in relation to the UN or US Embassy. This could also complement my inability to speek Greek.
• I like film too, so maybe something related to cinema would be nice, but I'm not sure about resources and access to necessary interviews/documents...etc here on the island. hmmm, may be difficult.
• OR...i could combine these, the history of film or the history of a futbol something. Im gonna spend a few minutes on google. just basics (searching for Cyprus and film for example) and see what i come up with.Allright, 30 minutes later and im a bit stuck. I'm gonna work on something else for a while, put it all on the back of my mind and come back to it later when im fresh, maybe after dinner...mmm dinner!
Post 1: Hello, howdy and good luck
Here is a brief summary of our course as discussed in class, I will attempt to work through the 10th grade research project with you by following the process myself. This way, we can figure out how to make this exercise useful and rational by navigating the rough waters together. My plan is to be as transparent as possible in my blog by discussing my topic choice, research questions, posting my works cited and final essay, as well as discussing any problems i foresee or tackle along the way. I will try to stay a week or two ahead of you so that you can see my thoughts process and actions taken towards constructing the essay portion of your project. I will also attempt to let you know the amount of time i spent on each task in order to give you a solid idea of time as well.
Your job will be to follow my posts and ask any questions via the comments section of each post (or in person if you wish). You can look here for any ideas or questions related to your own topic and i will respond here as well. These will range from choice of topic to possible places to research/interview/experiment...etc.
Also, you will be able to look at Essay format, Works Cited format and other concepts and ideas that you may not be familiar with.
This blog will be linked to the course wiki, so we will also be making sure your parents are aware of the blog; thus allowing them access to our progress and conversation! When you are on track, all will know...and when you are behind, well, there is a downside to transparency as well, isn't there?
Your job will be to follow my posts and ask any questions via the comments section of each post (or in person if you wish). You can look here for any ideas or questions related to your own topic and i will respond here as well. These will range from choice of topic to possible places to research/interview/experiment...etc.
Also, you will be able to look at Essay format, Works Cited format and other concepts and ideas that you may not be familiar with.
This blog will be linked to the course wiki, so we will also be making sure your parents are aware of the blog; thus allowing them access to our progress and conversation! When you are on track, all will know...and when you are behind, well, there is a downside to transparency as well, isn't there?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
