Alex+Bullock

Right now, I'm considering two topics for my research paper. One will take a look at the plight of frontier women during the 19th century and will consider a comparison and contrast between their lives on the frontier and their "Victorian" lifestyles that they left behind. For this paper, I would take a close look at their diaries, and relate the entries to historical events, such as the expansion of the railroad. The second idea for my research paper centers on the disconnect of society from nature as a result of industrialization. for this paper, I could mention some of the paintings that we discussed in class. We have discussed both topics briefly in class, but not to the extent that the papers would be repeating the discussions.

Some information on the diaries of frontier women during the 19th century. I found this document while researching for paper (2/28/2012) []

Today's discussion was interesting. What surprised me was that the disease brought about by the malnutrition from eating just corn. Most people have used the term "corn-fed" to describe a stocky, strong-built person (a stereotypical football player comes to mind). In fact, eating just corn causes a person to be slow and thin. Dr. Lester also hinted that the work of a farmer was not good for a person's health. Again, when we think of "farm-raised" individuals, don't we think of a strong, healthy young man? So where did these perceptions of rural life come from? I'm reminded of the slaughterhouse discussion that we had in a earlier class.