Writing Question

Social Class and Television Analysis

Assignment Overview:

As Class Dismissed and the readings by Richard Butsch and Grace Wang demonstrated, television has played a major role in shaping how we think of the American Dream (the idea that everyone has an equal chance to attain prosperity and success). For this essay, you will analyze the way social class is conveyed on television and reflect on the messages a show of your choice is offering about social class and the American Dream.

Instructions:

Watch a minimum of three episodes of a recent television show (last 5 years). The genre could be drama, comedy, or reality TV. It can be a show that you routinely watch or one you haven’t seen before. You can access shows through streaming sites, cable television, or from the CBS collection of shows that allows you to view some shows for free:

Analysis Requirements:

Your essay should address the following issues:

1) Occupation and Class Markers

To the degree you can tell, which specific occupations do the characters hold? How is social class portrayed on the show in terms of:

• The setting (homes, neighborhoods, workplaces
• The characters’ dialogue and mannerisms
• Their lifestyles (consumption, leisure activities, possessions)

2) Class and Character Traits

Do you see any correlation between characters’ personality traits and their income level or occupation? Are certain character qualities (intelligence, work ethic, morality, charisma) associated with particular class positions?

3) Messages about Class and the American Dream

In your view, what messages to these shows convey about social class and the American Dream during the period they were produced? What messages, if any, do they convey about the relationship between wealth and happiness?

Evidence Requirements:

Your evidence for this essay should come from two sources:

1) From the show you watched

You must provide detailed, specific examples that should include some of the following:

• Episode titles, season, and episode numbers
• Timestamps and/or detailed scene descriptions
• Specific settings with visual details
• Exact dialogue
• Specific character actions, purchases, or lifestyle choices that signal class
• Specific occupations with job titles and workplace details
• Clothing, possession, or consumption patterns described with specificity

For each major analytical point in your essay, reference at least one specific scene or moment with this level of detail.

2. From Course Readings

You should engage at least three of the class readings we have done so far, along with the documentary, Class Dismissed. These must include relevant texts about class representation. When citing readings, engage with specific arguments or concepts – don’t simply mention that you consulted a source. Use direct quotes or detailed paraphrases that demonstrate your understanding of theoretical frameworks.

Show Context:

Provide a brief overview of your chosen show (1-2 paragraphs) including the show title, creator(s), network/platform, and years aired; basic premise and main characters; and the genre and target audience.

Establish the contemporary context when discussing the show’s messages about class and the American Dream. These might include pandemic economic impacts, inflation, student debt, housing affordability, “quiet quitting,” the gig economy, etc.

Viewing Process:

As you watch, take detailed notes with timestamps of significant scenes you may want to analyze. Keep these notes as you may be asked to discuss them later.

Formatting Requirements:

• Your essay should be at least 1,200 words
• It should be typed in 12-point, Times New Roman font, double-spaced with 1-inch margins
• It should have a title
• The word count (minus your works-cited page) should appear in the header
• Cite any readings and shows you consult using a standard citation style and include a works cited page at the end of the essay

Grading:

Your essay will be graded on content (your command over class material and your ability to apply concepts to real media examples) and form (your ability to express and organize your ideas). See the rubric for detailed grading criteria.

Rubric

Essay Prompt 3

Total Points: 100

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