Journal Entry #2

For thousands of years, literature has influenced civilization from their views and ideals to the very structure of society and laws. Greatly influential literature pieces include The Declaration of Independence, Uncle Tom's Cabin, and The Communist Manifesto. These documents and stories have effected laws and society, ideals and social acceptance, as well as societal structure and government. Not all of these effects still remain, but remain as a part of history that can be easily applied to everyday life.

The Declaration of Independence is an American document written on July 4th, 1776 for the purpose of (amazingly) declaring the independence of the United States of America. Mainly written by Thomas Jefferson, it is the official document explaining why Congress voted to declare independence from Great Britian, and is the basis of the American holiday , "Independence Day". Independence day is a day celebrated by almost every American citizen, to remind them of the great battles their ancestors had to earn their independence and freedom. Written by cause of the American Civil War, it is the product of a change in ideals over many different causes - the main cause being slavery and human rights.

The book Uncle Tom's Cabin is a novel written by Harriet Breecher Stowe. While writing this book, Stowe was an active abolitionist - a supporter of abolishing slavery in the early to mid 1800's. This novel was written to show the heart-braking story and lifestyle of a group of black slaves, some sold due to debt troubles and their families attempting to run to Canada in order to escape the pursuing huntsmen and law enforcers. This reflection of a family in crisis, showing the compassionate side of black slaves and the predjudices that ran through society was a contributing factor to the support of anti-slavery groups, leading many towards the abolishment of slavery and resulting in The American Civil War.
The Communist Manifesto was written by both Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx. It is primarily a guide for a government based around communist ideals. The book is filled with several of Marx's theories, leading to an ideology of Marxism. these ideals influenced thousands of citizens and led to a communist government in Mid/Northern Asia. This may not have lasted long, but proved to be a nation's pride for a brief period, influencing many.

Political history is not necessarily an interesting topic or issue that I find interesting in comparison to creative historical stories and events. I have limited knowledge of Greek mythology and great classical novels, but would be willing to indulge some research in order to expand my writing capabilities. For example: After recently reading The Picture of Dorian Grey, I have gained a keen understanding of imagery presented in Oscar Wilde's flamboyantly ostentatious view, as well as horribly corrupted view, of life in the 1800's. This understanding has presented to me more options for creative writing in this sort of setting, or with these sort of characters. I could make a change to research more practical historical facts and events, which would also give me another aspect of writing - and should I have to indulge in this sort of issue or topic, I suppose I would.