Mad Men

1) Havrilesky's main insight about Mad Men was that the show so accurately portrayed the disconnect between the American dream and reality, or how Americans are constantly in a state of wanting more. She states that "It strains to capture the transformation of the American dream into a commodity that can be bought and sold." meaning that the American dream has become a commercial item that is sought after rather than a humble life that can be lived.


2) Havrilesky establishes her authority to write about the show by demonstrating her knowledge and insight of every season, episode, and character. Readers can clearly see how much she knows about each character and the underlying message about why they are they way they are. 


3) Readers can relate through emotion, mainly empathy, to the characters that the author describes. When analyzing Betty's character, Havrilesky says "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?" It is easier to feel bad for this character when seeing her through the empathetic eyes of the author, explaining how these factors of the characters life have shaped her.


4) I have never seen the show Mad Men so I have to trust that the author of this article is giving me correct insight.  After reading the article I now understand the basic premise of the show but the author hasn't really made me want to watch the show, mainly because it doesn't sound very fun and exciting but rather archaic and deceitful.