Summary

Jane Tompkins proves to be literary queen when she uses strong, and compelling terms to criticize the writers of history and the issues experienced by the different peoples. The book shows the main problems that contain one similar fact behind them.  The truth of the matter is that people have different perspectives about the one fact and this makes the whole difference. According to Jane, the problems have created textualism issues for the new generations, and this has made it challenging for them to learn history (Tomkins 1986).  The essay sends a message to the writers and contributors to history, calling them to use moral decisions to solve moral problems. Failing to deal with the different moral issues will only have them getting repeated, and this would invalidate the study of history (Tomkins 1986).  Reading the essay by Jane makes me feel that historians misinterpret the students of history because of the overall bias. In my opinion, historians should be able to see the facts behind an account for them to be able to help the students find out the facts in an ethical way. Jane Tompkins targeted historians who collect historical data and fail to be ethical in the process. Exigence has been used to show how the author had spoken out especially when a lot of things did not happen. Kairos shows that it is the opportune moment for Jane to speak out to avoid more damage to history.

Ethos

Tompkins uses information that is valid and well researched to prove that she is credible and aware of her surroundings. In the essay, she is proving to be intelligent, experienced in history and as well knows other individuals who are conversant with history. The author has also used an appropriate writing style, and this proves that enough research has been done about the subject matter. According to her, historians will be blamed for the erosion of history if they do not understand the facts behind history (Tomkins 1986).   The approach works well as it can allow Tomkins a following that believes in her viewpoint. The students who as well are her audience can comprehend what it would mean to have facts about history being presented most openly without bias.

Logos

Logos is all about appealing to logic by relying on the intelligence of the audience. Jane Tomkins uses facts that cannot be debated about because they adequately represent the truth. Ignoring historical facts is wrong and will only destroy history (Tomkins 1986).   The strategy is useful as it enables her audience to see the situation as it is and at the same time help them understand the impact it could have on the fate of history. Presenting facts in any argument give the author the authority required to command a following. In the case of Tomkins, the facts used has in a significant way encouraged power to be seen in the whole context.

Pathos

The topic that Jane has used is itself emotional as it is all about the history of the different peoples. The topic engages the audience more profoundly by bringing them to the full realization that mistakes by the historians in ignoring facts will completely ruin the chances of the young generation to learn about history (Tomkins 1986).   The strategy has been effective because it has been used hand in hand with the ethical argument as well as the logical viewpoint. Jane has significantly shown pathos by using connotative words, and these tend to carry the audience in a comfortable yet convincing manner.

Works Cited

Tompkins, Jane. “Indians”: Textualism, Morality, and the Problem of History.” Critical Inquiry 13.1 (1986): 101-119.

Tomkins Outline

1. Summary
2. Ethos

• Logos

1. Pathos

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