How would you characterize Riis' description of the living conditions of the urban working class in the late 19th c.? Give examples.
- To what does Riis attribute the conditions? Do you think he exaggerates? Explain.
- What, according to Riis, must happen to change the circumstances he describes? Was he being realistic in this? Explain.
- Why would workers choose to live under such conditions? Did they really have a choice?
- Was there a positive side to this situation? If so, what?