Devil In The White City Analysis Essay Example
Devil In The White City Analysis Essay Example

Devil In The White City Analysis Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (633 words)
  • Published: May 28, 2018
  • Type: Review
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In the book, it is depicted how America lost its innocence in different ways - both positive and negative. On one hand, America emerged as a plausible contender on the global stage and Chicago was recognized as a magnificent city. However, citizens also became aware of the presence of real evil in their midst. The Columbian Exposition marked America's 110th anniversary and served as an opportunity to showcase its place on the world platform while drawing in people from all over the world. Burnham and Root were tasked with bringing the fair to life. Despite grand plans for marble buildings, time and financial restraints made it clear that special construction techniques emphasizing appearance over durability must be employed. The fairgrounds were hurriedly prepared, with several constructions still ongoing until the final weeks of the fair. Thou

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sands earned employment due to the construction, which became a welcomed source of hope during a time when America was in depression. Recognizing that huge crowds would attract undesirables, a proactive police force was formed - one that would become a model for police forces across the nation.Imagine the beautiful sight of a city at night with white buildings lit up by thousands of electric lights, contrasted with a time when most of the world relied on gas or kerosene. Additionally, picture the amazement of farmers and their families from the heartland as they watch performances from Cossacks, Gypsies, African natives, and the Wild West show. The glory of innovation and industry is also present, from the excitement of the Ferris Wheel to the amazing power of Kerr pup's artillery display. However, outside of the fairground gates lies filth, noise

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violence, and poverty. During this period of growth for the city, a disgusting man was using deceitful tactics and malevolent intelligence to defraud and murder women who were lured to the city by its grandeur. He utilized financial scams to fund a huge building with blind corners, airtight rooms, gas pipes, and furnaces designed to trap and murder his victims. This terrible person disguised his "murder palace" as a rooming house for employees and travelers attending the fair. He also ran a pharmacy and became well-liked within his community. The true number of victims who fell at the hands of Holmes may never be discovered, but he had killed people from all over the country, including those who were closest to him.

Holmes possessed a certain charm that allowed him to elude both creditors and law enforcement, while simultaneously drawing women to him. His repertoire of skills extended beyond this, however, as he possessed enough medical knowledge to establish himself as a pharmacist. Additionally, he displayed a grasp of architecture in the design of his castle, which he oversaw the construction of, hiring and firing multiple firms and workers to ensure that its true purpose remained hidden.The use of various literary devices such as flashbacks and imagery are prominent in the text regarding the dynamic characters Holmes Burnham, Clara Levering, faceless Margaret Burnham, and the dynamic Minnie and Anna Williams. Additionally, Richard Hunt, flat George Post, round Benjamin Pipette, and the dynamic Patrick preponderates are also discussed. The Milne grand flat as well as George Ferris and Frederick limited dynamic are also mentioned with reference to the impact of industrialization on their respective lives.

Symbolism is also utilized through the representation of the white lights of the fair showcasing Burnham's efforts to beautify the city, while alluding to Holmes' struggles to bring it down. An allusion is also made to the hull house industrial era and how industrialization has affected the arbitration process. These changes were due to factors such as an increase in job opportunities brought about by factories and advancements in technology such as steam and electricity which allowed for more efficient production.

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