Dbq Monument Analysis

There are numerous aspects to consider when a monument is being created and a multitude of ways to memorialize something. The material, size, location and purpose are very important to consider and will inevitably alter the way the monument is interpreted. The effectiveness of the message is based upon those factors. A monument is representing greatness of some sort and must reflect that in its qualities.

One of the very essential qualities of the monument is its material and size. While these may seem to be insignificant, they determine the way the event or person is remembered. When constructing a monument, the creator must consider how to best utilize the materials given, just as Maya Lin did to create a structure that’s “mirrored effect would double the size of the park, creating two worlds, one we are a part of and one we cannot enter” (Source G). The size could have a negative effect on the interpretation of the monument as was the case with the Holocaust memorial which threatened to “overcome The Mall and take away the main purpose of the museum” (Source E). The visual appeal of a monument is greatly affected by the size and material employed by the construction of the monument.

The site for a monument has a very symbolic meaning and must be related to the monument. When considering location for the Holocaust Museum, it was thought that “building a museum on The Mall would enhance The Mall’s already diverse stories” (Source E). This theory failed to consider that The Mall had no true connection and prompted great debate over its location. The outrage was provoked by its construction “in the United States, who did little to stop the Holocaust from occurring” (Source E). Location must enhance the monument and allow its audience to feel the emotions associated with it, but not lose sight of the meaning as a result of distractions and an inapropriate