Prejudiced and stereotypical attitudes towards migrants in 19th-century America can be seen in the literature of such authors as Alger and Sullivan. For instance, in his book, Alger mentions an older English gentleman presented as a typical royal subject who is terribly afraid of the queen’s death and, therefore, appears pathetic and cowardly (49). The Progressive era, of which Sullivan was a contemporary, left its mark on the writer’s rhetoric. While describing the hardships of an Irish boy who was forced to lead a vagabond life and be despised by the native citizens of the United States, the author draws attention to the bias towards appearance (24). Such stereotyping highlights the presence of prejudices against the newly immigrated.
The key aspect that brings the characters of both authors together is their poverty. Unable to rely on anyone’s help, both Dick and Murphy are forced to earn a living, including pickpocketing. As a result, they are both perceived negatively in society. For instance, in one episode, the conductor warns of the possibility of pickpocketing by the child, which is a sign of clear mistrust (Alger 61). Murphy is also forced to trade in thefts, and this experience is a significant trigger that serves as a reason for social rejection. In general, both authors are sympathetic to the problems of immigrants. In one scene, Alger describes how Dick sits down at a table in an apartment meant for the lower class (7). The ironic details emphasize the author’s disagreement with such a social order. Thus, the situation in 19th-century America was unfavorable for immigrants.
Works Cited
Alger, Horatio. Ragged Dick; Or Street Life in New York with the Bootblacks. Polyglot Press, 2002.
Sullivan, James William. Tenement Tales of New York. Franklin Classics, 2018.