Bombs and Botox in Beirut

1956 Words8 Pages
In Alice Fordham’s “Bombs and Botox in Beirut”, the writer blends war with hedonism. Do you agree or disagree with the way Fordham described the Lebanese society? Support your point of view with arguments citing as many examples as applicable. Outline: Thesis: Although what she says applies to a certain group of people in Lebanon, the image Fordham gives of the Lebanese society at large is incomplete and somehow exaggerated. I. A misleading portrayal: A. The author’s approach to the text gives the impression that everything mentioned is accurate 1. Use of specific examples, historical events, and quotations. B. For the targeted audience, readers of The Sunday Times, this might seem completely true. C. Fordham seems to be intrigued by the importance of appearances in a society that has been through a lot. II. The importance of looks to the Lebanese: A. Despite the situation the region is enduring, Beirut is often considered as the fashion and clubbing capital of the region. 1. Districts known for clubs and pubs (Gemmayzeh, Monnot, etc..) 2. Lebanon is more liberal than most neighbor Arab countries. B. There is a clear increase in the number of plastic surgeries in the Lebanese society, especially amongst women. C. Most famous singers, performers and designers in the region are Lebanese. III. An incomplete image: A. Fordham bases her observation on a limited group of people that excludes the majority of the Lebanese population. B. Like in any society, Beirut has a high class that gives appearances great importance, but a lower class also exists. 1. Although renowned for its nightlife, it has a more conservative face the writer ignored. 2. Lebanon is a country of diversity: the presence of people like those described does not imply generalization over the whole Lebanese population. C.
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