Abstract This paper analyzes the definition of the outsider as discussed in two plays - "AlterNatives" by Drew Taylor and "Amigo's Blue Guitar" by Joan MacLeod. It explores how and why the various characters in the plays have constructed the outsider, while simultaneously fortifying their own position as outsider. The paper also analyzes the symbolism and language in both plays and discusses how this adds to the theme discussed.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Dramatization of the Outsider
Outsider Constructing the Outsiders
Consequences of Dramatization by Characters
Symbolism in the Two Plays
Conclusion: The Nature of Experience
From the Paper "In both plays, language is the main route to understanding the presumed outsider. At the same time, language is the main avoidance strategy. Elias, for example, serves a practical end for Sander in that Sander "gets to cut out of Spanish and English class and hang out at immigration. Everyone thinks he's some kind of hero" (MacLeod 38). When Martha is speaking quite rapidly to Elias and he requests that she slow down, she does understand but ignores him. Martha even repeatedly mispronounces Elias' name. Elias points out to both Callie and Sander that the most formidable barrier to comprehending his reality is language. "If you want to know my story, then you can learn my language" (MacLeod 42)."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the problem of illegal immigration into the USA. According to the paper, recent attempts to address the issue through local enforcement may have unsuspecting consequences and a negative impact on the Latino communities.
From the Paper "According to critics, the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 led to the legalization of vast numbers of undocumented immigrants as a means of reducing unsanctioned immigration, however its main effect was to reinforce and expand established cross-border migration networks and create a thriving business in fraudulent documents (Nevins). These unintended consequences laid the foundation for the anti-immigration backlash that eventually emerged during the 1990's, partially due to political and bureaucratic entrepreneurs who sparked public sentiment by focusing on the border as both the source of the problem and the site of policy solution (Nevins). Others argue that the backlash was not merely against illegal immigrants, but was rather directed against immigrants in general, particularly "the nonwhite, non-English speaking, and the relatively poor" (Nevins). These concerns resulted in a declaration of "war" against unauthorized immigrants which led to a short-term shift in INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service) policing tactics along the Mexico-U.S. border and to the massive infusion of enforcement-related resources, such as California's Operation Gatekeeper (Nevins). "
