Mad Men

1. Throughout the story Heather Havrilesky's main insight is that the show Mad Men very realistically portrays the reality of the American dream, and how it is never accessible because Americans are always in a state of wanting more. In her analysis of Mad Men she states "Americans are constantly in search of an upgrade. Its a sickness that's infused in our blood, a dissatisfaction with the ordinary" meaning the American dream can never be reached do to the urning for more that is apart of the dream.

2. Havrilesky establishes her authority by sharing the knowledge she has on the subject with her audience. Talking about the characters, their backgrounds and the everyday troubles they struggle with, and the main point of the show allow the reader to understand not only what she is writing about but also proves she knows what she is talking about.

3. Pointing out main characters with problems that regular people, including her audience, have help her appeal to her readers emotions. When Havrilesky analyzes Betty's character the readers can relate through empathy and sympathy. Betty having very realistic problems that she suffers with through this series may relate to problems that some of Havrilesky's audience may have as well. Havrilesky talks about how Betty has no wisdom, survival instincts and compassion, casing her to be child like when dealing with problems, but then states "But what else can you expect from someone whose closest relations--overbearing father, paternal but deceitful husband--have consistently rewarded her for quietly, obediently playing along with their games?"

4. Since I was not familiar with this show before hand I must trust that what Havrilesky states about it is true, and due to her intense overload, but necessary, amount of information that she offers about this show she is very compelling and makes her audience believe and trust that she knows what she is talking about. Giving not only character information but also season breakdowns allows me to believe that I now understand the basic premise of this show. Due to its relatively modernized and realistic them I would say this might be a show I would be interested in.