Mental Map

Map Link

This map is an example of a mental map. It is something that we covered in the notes in the first week of class. In this map, the drawings are very gestural and loose. It is obvious that the scale of things may be a bit of and is evident by looking at how large the trees are compared to the roads. Upon first thing we see when we look at this map is its title, "Coal City, Illinois 1940's" the creator is calling upon what he remembers of this period to generate this map. One thing that is especially interesting about this map is that, yes, it does recreate what the area visually looks like, with roads and buildings, but it mainly works to describe the creators memories. We see where he/she used to make mud pies, or where the baby sitter lives. None of these things are important to orienting one in space, yet it works to create a bigger picture for the reader. The creator of the map remembers these specific events and memories upon calling on the mental map of this area. Thinking about the trees reminded him/her of mud pies and a nearby garden. With mental maps, we are able to recall physical attributes of a place with the help of experiences and landmarks that we encounter in these areas. When we combine the experiences and the concrete things such as buildings and schools, we can create a full mental map that helps orient us in space.