"They were noticing what the Americans had not noticed-that the horses' mouths were bleeding... The Americans had treated their form of transportation as though it were no more sensitive than a six-cylinder Chevrolet." PAGE 196
This quote provides a truth about Americans in general. It can still be applied to Americans today. It shows that Americans are rather self centered and self absorbed. They do not care for what is around them. They did not even notice that the horses were hurt. They did not care. Even in war, Americans did not show the care and concern they should have. The others were able to notice what the Americans did not. This provides evidence of the truth in some typical stereotypes about Americans. The Americans fulfilled expectations that they would not care about the condition of the horses. Europeans are sometimes viewed as more concerned with the environment and other people. This is supported by the occurrence of them noticing the injuries of the horse.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Slaughterhouse Five- The Moon but not really
"Nobody talked much as the expedition crossed the moon." PAGE 180
After Dresden was bombed, the area apparently looked like the moon. Because of this, the narrator begins referring to Dresden after the bombing as the moon. He then likens the movements and the appearance to the moon. They were no longer walking over materials; they were making expeditions over the jagged edges of moon rocks. This made it seem almost like children making their own adventures out of something that was not really there. It was as if they were imagining an adventure for themselves to have fun, except it wasn't fun. Comparing the surroundings to the moon relays what it looked like to those who were there after the bombings. Not many people were left so the first hand accounts are vital in knowing the truth. The moon symbolizes that the area was barren. There were not many people or buildings around. The whole city must have been almost completely destroyed. This shows the impact of the bombings and how terrible it was for the city but how successful it was in the context of war.
After Dresden was bombed, the area apparently looked like the moon. Because of this, the narrator begins referring to Dresden after the bombing as the moon. He then likens the movements and the appearance to the moon. They were no longer walking over materials; they were making expeditions over the jagged edges of moon rocks. This made it seem almost like children making their own adventures out of something that was not really there. It was as if they were imagining an adventure for themselves to have fun, except it wasn't fun. Comparing the surroundings to the moon relays what it looked like to those who were there after the bombings. Not many people were left so the first hand accounts are vital in knowing the truth. The moon symbolizes that the area was barren. There were not many people or buildings around. The whole city must have been almost completely destroyed. This shows the impact of the bombings and how terrible it was for the city but how successful it was in the context of war.
Slaughterhouse Five- parallelism
"He got a few paragraphs into it, and then he realized that he had read it before- years ago, in the veterans' hospital. It was about an Earthling man and woman who were kidnapped by extra-terrestrials." PAGE 201
This quote provides parallelism between the plot of the book and one of the destinations of Billy's time traveling experience. Billy travels to a planet after being kidnapped by the extra-terrestrials. He claims all of this happened, but he has no proof. There is a parallel scenario between the one in the book and the adventure of Billy. In the book, and in Billy's adventure, the Earthling is taken to another planet and placed in a zoo for observation. In both scenarios, the Earthlings are watched carefully by the native inhabitants. This parallelism allowed me to realize that Billy might not have gone to Tralfamadore. He might have just thought he did because of what he read. He might have envisioned or imagined the experience rather than living it. He did not think he read the book before, but then remembers he did. I think that he created the time travel illusion and Tralfamadore from this book.
This quote provides parallelism between the plot of the book and one of the destinations of Billy's time traveling experience. Billy travels to a planet after being kidnapped by the extra-terrestrials. He claims all of this happened, but he has no proof. There is a parallel scenario between the one in the book and the adventure of Billy. In the book, and in Billy's adventure, the Earthling is taken to another planet and placed in a zoo for observation. In both scenarios, the Earthlings are watched carefully by the native inhabitants. This parallelism allowed me to realize that Billy might not have gone to Tralfamadore. He might have just thought he did because of what he read. He might have envisioned or imagined the experience rather than living it. He did not think he read the book before, but then remembers he did. I think that he created the time travel illusion and Tralfamadore from this book.
Slaughterhouse Five- motif
"If you're ever in Cody, Wyoming... just ask for Wild Bob." PAGE 206, 212, and others
When this quote was repeated the first few times, I did not realize the significance. I overlooked its repetitiveness at first because it was not that often. In the second half I realized it happening more and more. I am not exactly sure why it is repeated so often. My best guess would be that the line is one that sticks out to the narrator. He seems to use this phrase when he thinks about the war. When he thinks about war, that instance must be one that sticks out to him. Because of this, he repeats it to bring back other memories of the war. Maybe he chooses this incident because it is a more lighthearted memory than others he has. This quote could also be an example of the hope that the people in the war had. They all had hope that they would make it home alive. They had the hope that they would stay safe and things would go back to normal. Maybe this quote is a symbol of hope for things to go back to normal. These are educated assumptions because I do not know why this is repeated.
When this quote was repeated the first few times, I did not realize the significance. I overlooked its repetitiveness at first because it was not that often. In the second half I realized it happening more and more. I am not exactly sure why it is repeated so often. My best guess would be that the line is one that sticks out to the narrator. He seems to use this phrase when he thinks about the war. When he thinks about war, that instance must be one that sticks out to him. Because of this, he repeats it to bring back other memories of the war. Maybe he chooses this incident because it is a more lighthearted memory than others he has. This quote could also be an example of the hope that the people in the war had. They all had hope that they would make it home alive. They had the hope that they would stay safe and things would go back to normal. Maybe this quote is a symbol of hope for things to go back to normal. These are educated assumptions because I do not know why this is repeated.
Slaughterhouse Five- epithet and foreshadow
"Billy and Lazzaro and poor old Edgar Derby crossed the prison yard to the theater now." PAGE 143
This quote provides an example of an epithet connected with Edgar Derby. Rather than just being called by his name, the narrator connects these adjectives to the character. The poor refers to how he will die. The narrator knows while the characters themselves do not. The old refers to his relative age. He is not actually that old, but in comparison to the other soldiers he is. The narrator continues to refer to Derby as poor and old no matter what is going on. The epithet also provides an example of foreshadowing. He is called poor because he will die by a firing squad in Dresden. The reader knows that early on, from the first time he is introduced. Derby however does not know how he will die so he goes on as if he will live. The epithet continually reminds the reader of what is to come. The reader knows that he is going to die and how he is going to die, but it does not happen until long after the reader knows. Finally, in the last few pages of the novel, Derby dies just as was described in the beginning. His death was foreshadowed repeated until it happened.
This quote provides an example of an epithet connected with Edgar Derby. Rather than just being called by his name, the narrator connects these adjectives to the character. The poor refers to how he will die. The narrator knows while the characters themselves do not. The old refers to his relative age. He is not actually that old, but in comparison to the other soldiers he is. The narrator continues to refer to Derby as poor and old no matter what is going on. The epithet also provides an example of foreshadowing. He is called poor because he will die by a firing squad in Dresden. The reader knows that early on, from the first time he is introduced. Derby however does not know how he will die so he goes on as if he will live. The epithet continually reminds the reader of what is to come. The reader knows that he is going to die and how he is going to die, but it does not happen until long after the reader knows. Finally, in the last few pages of the novel, Derby dies just as was described in the beginning. His death was foreshadowed repeated until it happened.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Slaughterhouse Five-time travel?
"Under morphine, Billy had a dream of giraffes in a garden. The giraffes were following gravel paths, were pausing to munch sugar pears from treetops. Billy was a giraffe too." PAGE 99
This brief part of the novel was a little odd for me. I thought that the time travel stuff was weird. Billy kept ending up at different parts in his life without warning. Not only that, but he also thought that he went to another planet. This was very strange to me that someone could firmly believe all this was happening. The ironic thing about this quote is that he was under morphine when it happened. One would have thought that he would have thought about something super crazy while he was on the morphine, but I was a little disappointed in the creativity he was able to conjure. What he believed to be real life was crazier than what he thought on morphine. The idea of being a giraffe was rather normal compared to what he thought was actually real. I was hoping for a little more extreme adventures while he was on the morphine. I think this shows how confused and messed up he has become as a result of the war.
This brief part of the novel was a little odd for me. I thought that the time travel stuff was weird. Billy kept ending up at different parts in his life without warning. Not only that, but he also thought that he went to another planet. This was very strange to me that someone could firmly believe all this was happening. The ironic thing about this quote is that he was under morphine when it happened. One would have thought that he would have thought about something super crazy while he was on the morphine, but I was a little disappointed in the creativity he was able to conjure. What he believed to be real life was crazier than what he thought on morphine. The idea of being a giraffe was rather normal compared to what he thought was actually real. I was hoping for a little more extreme adventures while he was on the morphine. I think this shows how confused and messed up he has become as a result of the war.
Slaughterhouse Five-war
"Would you talk about the war now, if I wanted you to?" PAGE 121
This quote is effective in portraying a common attitude about war. The commonality is that people who experience war firsthand are often reluctant to talk about it. It is hard to know what war is really like because people do not want to talk about what they did, what they saw, what they heard. The truth of war often alludes the people at home. Those who were there do not want to relive their experience and bring back the horrific memories of war. This is completely understandable. The novel as a whole gives a new glance into what happens at war. The narrator is able to refrain from inserting his emotion. It was probably hard for him to recall all of this, but I appreciate what he has done. It is the first work where I have really been able to see and attempt to understand what happens to soldiers after war. It shows the reality of the difficult task of returning to home life after the war. We often hear that it is hard to reacquaint oneself with civilian life again. The views of war that he portray seem awful and terrible, but his lack of emotion makes it hard to fully understand. He has been hardened by war so that death is no longer as emotional as it is for most civilians.
This quote is effective in portraying a common attitude about war. The commonality is that people who experience war firsthand are often reluctant to talk about it. It is hard to know what war is really like because people do not want to talk about what they did, what they saw, what they heard. The truth of war often alludes the people at home. Those who were there do not want to relive their experience and bring back the horrific memories of war. This is completely understandable. The novel as a whole gives a new glance into what happens at war. The narrator is able to refrain from inserting his emotion. It was probably hard for him to recall all of this, but I appreciate what he has done. It is the first work where I have really been able to see and attempt to understand what happens to soldiers after war. It shows the reality of the difficult task of returning to home life after the war. We often hear that it is hard to reacquaint oneself with civilian life again. The views of war that he portray seem awful and terrible, but his lack of emotion makes it hard to fully understand. He has been hardened by war so that death is no longer as emotional as it is for most civilians.
Slaughterhouse Five- metonymy
"It was a deliberate attempt to humiliate you. You mustn't let Jerry do things like that to you." PAGE 98
This quote is an example of metonymy. The Germans are referred to by one common name rather than what they are. The English men refer to the Germans all by one name. The fact that the Englishmen call them all Jerry is effective in showing how they feel about the Germans. The use of one name for all of them shows their disrespect for them. It also shows that they do not feel that they deserve to be known by name. They think what they are doing is terrible. The name is associated with the Germans and that is how they refer to them. The Americans are confused at first because they do not know who Jerry is. They are not aware of the nickname given to the Germans. I think the nickname also belittles the Germans because they are referred to as a commonplace name rather than even their nationality. It is peaceful way for the Englishmen to show their feelings against the Germans.
This quote is an example of metonymy. The Germans are referred to by one common name rather than what they are. The English men refer to the Germans all by one name. The fact that the Englishmen call them all Jerry is effective in showing how they feel about the Germans. The use of one name for all of them shows their disrespect for them. It also shows that they do not feel that they deserve to be known by name. They think what they are doing is terrible. The name is associated with the Germans and that is how they refer to them. The Americans are confused at first because they do not know who Jerry is. They are not aware of the nickname given to the Germans. I think the nickname also belittles the Germans because they are referred to as a commonplace name rather than even their nationality. It is peaceful way for the Englishmen to show their feelings against the Germans.
Slaughterhouse Five- characterization
"Roland Weary was only eighteen, was at the end of an unhappy childhood spent mostly in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania." PAGE 35
Throughout the novel, the characters are introduced and described by the narrator. He directly characterizes them as he sees them. He leaves some up for interpretation, but the basics are directly stated. The author uses direct characterization to give background information about the characters. The use of direct characterization is effective here because the narrator tells about the other characters he encounters. Direct characterization makes it easier for the reader to further characterized the individuals because it provides some information to stimulate character traits. Direct characterization also leaves less open to interpretation. The characterization is also important because several people come in and out of the story because of the different settings. The direct characterization makes it easier to remember who is who among the characters.
Throughout the novel, the characters are introduced and described by the narrator. He directly characterizes them as he sees them. He leaves some up for interpretation, but the basics are directly stated. The author uses direct characterization to give background information about the characters. The use of direct characterization is effective here because the narrator tells about the other characters he encounters. Direct characterization makes it easier for the reader to further characterized the individuals because it provides some information to stimulate character traits. Direct characterization also leaves less open to interpretation. The characterization is also important because several people come in and out of the story because of the different settings. The direct characterization makes it easier to remember who is who among the characters.
Slaughterhouse Five- motif
"Billy was the next-to-last human being to reach the door. The hobo was last. The hobo could not flow, could not plop. He wasn't liquid anymore. He was stone. So it goes." PAGE 81
This quote provides an example of a motif that persists throughout the novel. Every time someone dies in the book, the narrator says "so it goes." This motif provides the emotion or lack thereof present when someone dies. The motif is effective in showing that the deaths are all felt the same because he responds with the same saying. The motif also shows how the war has hardened the men to death. It effectively shows that death is not regarded as it is outside the context of war. The men do not mourn the loss. They just move on from it. The narrator's phrase shows that he does not feel the pain often associated with death anymore. The motif is effective in proving the harsh reality of death in war. In this way it is not regarded as of significant value because he does not spend time discussing or further explaining the circumstances.
This quote provides an example of a motif that persists throughout the novel. Every time someone dies in the book, the narrator says "so it goes." This motif provides the emotion or lack thereof present when someone dies. The motif is effective in showing that the deaths are all felt the same because he responds with the same saying. The motif also shows how the war has hardened the men to death. It effectively shows that death is not regarded as it is outside the context of war. The men do not mourn the loss. They just move on from it. The narrator's phrase shows that he does not feel the pain often associated with death anymore. The motif is effective in proving the harsh reality of death in war. In this way it is not regarded as of significant value because he does not spend time discussing or further explaining the circumstances.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Frankenstein part 2 Walton
"I have longed for a friend; I have sought one who would sympathise with and love me." PAGE 157
Walton seems rather alienated from the people around him. He has no friends and instantly desires the love of a complete stranger who boards his ship because he has no one else. He barely knows Victor and already begins to grieve his illness. He has no contact with his family except for letters. His own crew threatens to mutiny. It took him several years just to get enough ship mate to take the journey. Walton obviously does not have great interpersonal skills. I feel bad for him that he has no friends but desperately wants one. He has no one to stay with him and support him through everything. He must be extremely lonely. He is completely alone. He loses the one person he thinks he could be friends with. Walton might be a really great friend. He definitely seems like a good listener for listening to Victor's entire story. He deserves at least a few friends, but he alienates them with his singlemindedness. If he was open to others and was not so focused on exploring, he might be a rather popular person.
Walton seems rather alienated from the people around him. He has no friends and instantly desires the love of a complete stranger who boards his ship because he has no one else. He barely knows Victor and already begins to grieve his illness. He has no contact with his family except for letters. His own crew threatens to mutiny. It took him several years just to get enough ship mate to take the journey. Walton obviously does not have great interpersonal skills. I feel bad for him that he has no friends but desperately wants one. He has no one to stay with him and support him through everything. He must be extremely lonely. He is completely alone. He loses the one person he thinks he could be friends with. Walton might be a really great friend. He definitely seems like a good listener for listening to Victor's entire story. He deserves at least a few friends, but he alienates them with his singlemindedness. If he was open to others and was not so focused on exploring, he might be a rather popular person.
Frankenstein part 2 will he really do it?
"I shall die." PAGE 166
This quote is some of the last words we hear from the creature. He says he is going to die. I question if he really will. He says that he is done and will kill himself. I do not think he will actually follow through with it. Even though this is the end of the story, I am curious as to whether he actually does or not. I imagine if he is truly set on the idea he would wait a long time like he did before introducing himself to the family. I think he will want to have a careful and meticulous plan ready. I also question whether or not he will really do it because he could have just been saying it in the heat of the moment. He also might have been trying to dissuade Walton from killing him. While the creature says he is going to die, no one knows if he really does. The story stops, but if it were to continue, would the creature still be alive? I can see the creature never going through with it and tormenting someone else. He seemed to enjoy haunting Victor and killing his friends and family to make him suffer. He might latch on to someone else he wants to bring eternal unhappiness to. Either way, it would make for an interesting sequel.
This quote is some of the last words we hear from the creature. He says he is going to die. I question if he really will. He says that he is done and will kill himself. I do not think he will actually follow through with it. Even though this is the end of the story, I am curious as to whether he actually does or not. I imagine if he is truly set on the idea he would wait a long time like he did before introducing himself to the family. I think he will want to have a careful and meticulous plan ready. I also question whether or not he will really do it because he could have just been saying it in the heat of the moment. He also might have been trying to dissuade Walton from killing him. While the creature says he is going to die, no one knows if he really does. The story stops, but if it were to continue, would the creature still be alive? I can see the creature never going through with it and tormenting someone else. He seemed to enjoy haunting Victor and killing his friends and family to make him suffer. He might latch on to someone else he wants to bring eternal unhappiness to. Either way, it would make for an interesting sequel.
Frankenstein part 2 forshadow
"Again; there is a sound as of a human voice, but hoarser; it comes from the cabin where the remains of Frankenstein still lie." PAGE 162
This quote is an example of forshadowing. Hearing the sound forshadows that the creature is there. Also, the quote forshadows that it is the creature by saying the sound as of a human voice, but it does not say a human voice. This insinuates it is not a human. The creature came back to Victor. He is disappointed when he finds him already dead because he had other plans for him. The forshadowing is effective because the reader is expecting the creature to be there. The forshadowing is also effective because it emphasizes the nonhumanity of the creature. This proves that the creature will be the one in the cabin. The forshadowin also proves that it will be the creature by saying in Victor's cabin. Coming from any other cabin it would not be as effective.
This quote is an example of forshadowing. Hearing the sound forshadows that the creature is there. Also, the quote forshadows that it is the creature by saying the sound as of a human voice, but it does not say a human voice. This insinuates it is not a human. The creature came back to Victor. He is disappointed when he finds him already dead because he had other plans for him. The forshadowing is effective because the reader is expecting the creature to be there. The forshadowing is also effective because it emphasizes the nonhumanity of the creature. This proves that the creature will be the one in the cabin. The forshadowin also proves that it will be the creature by saying in Victor's cabin. Coming from any other cabin it would not be as effective.
Frankenstein part 2 personification
"Despair had indeed almost secured her prey, and I should soon have sunk beneath this misery." PAGE 154
This provides an example of personification. Despair is an emotion so it cannot literally catch prey. Victor is describing his state of mind. He is saying that the despair he feels has almost taken over completely. He relates the take over to a predator hunting for prey to make it more savage. The personification is effective in portraying how Victor feels at this point. It also reveals that he has almost reached his breaking point. It is getting harder and harder for him. Victor realizes that the despair is taking over him but is unable to do anything about it. The personification shows that he knows it is happening but chooses not to respond. He is rather passive about the situation because he has already been through so much in his recent past.
This provides an example of personification. Despair is an emotion so it cannot literally catch prey. Victor is describing his state of mind. He is saying that the despair he feels has almost taken over completely. He relates the take over to a predator hunting for prey to make it more savage. The personification is effective in portraying how Victor feels at this point. It also reveals that he has almost reached his breaking point. It is getting harder and harder for him. Victor realizes that the despair is taking over him but is unable to do anything about it. The personification shows that he knows it is happening but chooses not to respond. He is rather passive about the situation because he has already been through so much in his recent past.
Frankenstein Part 2 Allusion
"It moved every feeling of wander and awe, that the picture of an omnipotent God warring with his creatures was capable of exciting. I often referred the several situations, as their similarity struck me, to my own." PAGE 92
The creature previously alluded to himself as the Adam to Victor. He returns to this biblical allusion. He views himself as Adam because he knows of the relationship between God and Adam. He sees how God cares for Adam because he created him. This makes him desire more from Victor than he is willing to give him. The creature believes he deserves more than Victor is giving him. The allusion is effective because most of the audience would be familiar with the story of Adam and Eve. This makes the relationship relatable as well as provides background for the creature's feelings. He would not come up with that desire on his own because he would not know any better. The biblical allusion provides support for his beliefs.
The creature previously alluded to himself as the Adam to Victor. He returns to this biblical allusion. He views himself as Adam because he knows of the relationship between God and Adam. He sees how God cares for Adam because he created him. This makes him desire more from Victor than he is willing to give him. The creature believes he deserves more than Victor is giving him. The allusion is effective because most of the audience would be familiar with the story of Adam and Eve. This makes the relationship relatable as well as provides background for the creature's feelings. He would not come up with that desire on his own because he would not know any better. The biblical allusion provides support for his beliefs.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Frankenstein- The Creature
"I thrust my hand into the live embers, but quickly drew it out again with a cry of pain. How strange, I thought, that the same casue should produce such opposite effects." PAGE 72
The creature seems to be like a baby or child in development. Although he is larger than a human, he is not mentally as developed. He must learn like a child. He learns by what he sees and experiences. This is partly why he watches the family. He wants to learn how to be like a human so that he is excepted. He first acts purely for survival. He means no harm on the houses he pillages. He does not understand that what he is doing is wrong. He wants to learn about the interaction between people. Also, the creature does not understand everything, like a child. He must learn from trial and error. He shows his vulnerability and shallowness of knowledge when he sticks his hand in the fire. He assumed it would feel good because fire was warm for hear and cooking food. It did not occur to him that the fire could be bad in any way. Even if the creature is the one who killed William, I do not think he could be held responsible because he does not know the right way to act. He does not understand social situations the way most adults do.
From 3:56 to 4:30 applies to the creature and his fire experience. I do not have an explanation for the chipmunk-like voices for the characters.
The creature seems to be like a baby or child in development. Although he is larger than a human, he is not mentally as developed. He must learn like a child. He learns by what he sees and experiences. This is partly why he watches the family. He wants to learn how to be like a human so that he is excepted. He first acts purely for survival. He means no harm on the houses he pillages. He does not understand that what he is doing is wrong. He wants to learn about the interaction between people. Also, the creature does not understand everything, like a child. He must learn from trial and error. He shows his vulnerability and shallowness of knowledge when he sticks his hand in the fire. He assumed it would feel good because fire was warm for hear and cooking food. It did not occur to him that the fire could be bad in any way. Even if the creature is the one who killed William, I do not think he could be held responsible because he does not know the right way to act. He does not understand social situations the way most adults do.
From 3:56 to 4:30 applies to the creature and his fire experience. I do not have an explanation for the chipmunk-like voices for the characters.
Frankenstein- Justine
"Since you left us, but one change has taken place in our little household. Do you remember on what occasions Justine Moritz entered our family?" PAGE 41
The introduction of Justine comes shortly before her accusation. After being introduced as such a kind and compassionate part of the family, she is accused of a vicious crime. The insertion of her in the letter makes it harder for the reader to believe that she is guilty because of the way she is portrayed in the letter. Justine was taken in by the family after a disappointing family dynamic endangered her. I feel sorry for Justine for everything she has to go through. She first grew up in a destructive family. When she gets involved in a better family that cares for her, she is loved and included. Then her mother selfishly wishes for her to return home because she has been plagued with bad luck. Her mother dies, then she is accused of killing a son like figure. She does not deserve to be treated like this when she has been faithfully devoted to this family.
The introduction of Justine comes shortly before her accusation. After being introduced as such a kind and compassionate part of the family, she is accused of a vicious crime. The insertion of her in the letter makes it harder for the reader to believe that she is guilty because of the way she is portrayed in the letter. Justine was taken in by the family after a disappointing family dynamic endangered her. I feel sorry for Justine for everything she has to go through. She first grew up in a destructive family. When she gets involved in a better family that cares for her, she is loved and included. Then her mother selfishly wishes for her to return home because she has been plagued with bad luck. Her mother dies, then she is accused of killing a son like figure. She does not deserve to be treated like this when she has been faithfully devoted to this family.
Frankenstein- Epithet
"When I slept or was absent, the forms of the venerable blind father, the gentle Agatha, and the excellent Felix, flitted before me." PAGE 81
While hiding, the creature takes refuge in a small abode. From his spot, he watches a family. He diligently watches and absorbs what they do. He tries to understand what they do and why. He wants to understand the humans and their motives. The creature learns from watching this family. From what he sees, he is able to connect a description to each. From his perception of the family members, he is able to deem Agatha gentle, and Felix excellent. He originally does not even understand these words. These epithets are effective because they give effective characterization. The creature has no bias or judgement towards the family. He gives an accurate account of what the family seems like to the rest of the world.
While hiding, the creature takes refuge in a small abode. From his spot, he watches a family. He diligently watches and absorbs what they do. He tries to understand what they do and why. He wants to understand the humans and their motives. The creature learns from watching this family. From what he sees, he is able to connect a description to each. From his perception of the family members, he is able to deem Agatha gentle, and Felix excellent. He originally does not even understand these words. These epithets are effective because they give effective characterization. The creature has no bias or judgement towards the family. He gives an accurate account of what the family seems like to the rest of the world.
Frankenstein- Simile
"Sir Isaac Newton is said to have avowed that he felt like a child picking up shells beside the great and unexplored ocean of truth." PAGE 21
This quote is an example of a simile. The simile is proposed by Walton. He relates how Newton felt when acquiring knowledge to how he feels. The simile shows how Walton wants to discover more. It is hard to be satisfied when so much is around. Even as he makes strides, Walton, like Newton, felt insignificant. He felt like he was just on the surface. He wants to go deeper. The progress he is making does not seem like anything considering what is out there to be discovered. The simile is effective because everyone can relate to shells on the ocean. Everyone knows what it is like to barely make a dent in something. It makes it easier to relate his feelings to the reader.
This quote is an example of a simile. The simile is proposed by Walton. He relates how Newton felt when acquiring knowledge to how he feels. The simile shows how Walton wants to discover more. It is hard to be satisfied when so much is around. Even as he makes strides, Walton, like Newton, felt insignificant. He felt like he was just on the surface. He wants to go deeper. The progress he is making does not seem like anything considering what is out there to be discovered. The simile is effective because everyone can relate to shells on the ocean. Everyone knows what it is like to barely make a dent in something. It makes it easier to relate his feelings to the reader.
Frankenstein- Synecdoche
"I may there discover the wondrous power which attracts the needle; and may regulate a thousand celestial observations, that require only this voyage to render their seeming eccentricities consistent for ever." PAGE 1
This quote provides an example of synechdoche. Walton is referring to his desire to explore. He wants to find something that no one has found before. In this quote, the needle refers to the needle in a compass. The needle is standing for the whole of the compass. Walton desires to make it to the North Pole where no one has gone. He seeks for knowledge of the magnets and what makes it point north. The synecdoche is effective because the reader knows what is meant by the needle. We know he is referring to the compass. The benefit to calling it a needle is that it stresses the magnetic nature of the compass. The magnet is what Walton is interested in. He wants to understand what no one else can.
This quote provides an example of synechdoche. Walton is referring to his desire to explore. He wants to find something that no one has found before. In this quote, the needle refers to the needle in a compass. The needle is standing for the whole of the compass. Walton desires to make it to the North Pole where no one has gone. He seeks for knowledge of the magnets and what makes it point north. The synecdoche is effective because the reader knows what is meant by the needle. We know he is referring to the compass. The benefit to calling it a needle is that it stresses the magnetic nature of the compass. The magnet is what Walton is interested in. He wants to understand what no one else can.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
A Raisin in the Sun vs The Glass Menagerie
"Listen, I'm going to be a doctor. I'm not worried who I'm going to marry yet- if I get married." PAGE 50
A Raisin in the Sun has some distinct similarities to The Glass Menagerie. Both plays deal with a realistic family conflict. In this particular scene, Beneatha is talking about making something of herself. She is not content living with her family the rest of her life working in other people's houses. In this way, she is like Tom. Tom is not content in his current situation and wants to get out and have some adventure. Also, this quote discusses the idea of marriage. Marriage was a central idea in The Glass Menagerie as well. Mama and Ruth seem to care more about Beneatha getting married than she does. In The Glass Menagerie, Amanda is overly concerned and enveloped in the idea of Laura finding a husband. This shows that the older generation seems more into the marriages than the children because that is how they grew up. Both plays also deal with the conflict of what is best for the family. Amanda is harsh on her children because she wants them to lead a better life than she has. Mama truly has the best interest of the family in mind when she puts money down on the new house. She takes the initiative because she knows that is what the family wants and needs, even if it is a financial burden. The Glass Menagerie and a Raisin in the Sun have other similarities as well.
A Raisin in the Sun has some distinct similarities to The Glass Menagerie. Both plays deal with a realistic family conflict. In this particular scene, Beneatha is talking about making something of herself. She is not content living with her family the rest of her life working in other people's houses. In this way, she is like Tom. Tom is not content in his current situation and wants to get out and have some adventure. Also, this quote discusses the idea of marriage. Marriage was a central idea in The Glass Menagerie as well. Mama and Ruth seem to care more about Beneatha getting married than she does. In The Glass Menagerie, Amanda is overly concerned and enveloped in the idea of Laura finding a husband. This shows that the older generation seems more into the marriages than the children because that is how they grew up. Both plays also deal with the conflict of what is best for the family. Amanda is harsh on her children because she wants them to lead a better life than she has. Mama truly has the best interest of the family in mind when she puts money down on the new house. She takes the initiative because she knows that is what the family wants and needs, even if it is a financial burden. The Glass Menagerie and a Raisin in the Sun have other similarities as well.
A Raisin in the Sun- Study Question 8
"Talk about -oldddddddddd-fashioneddddddddddd- Negroes!" PAGE 112
Study question 8 concerns characters who contrast from one another. In a raisin in the sun, Mama and Beneatha contrast each other. They have differing beliefs and philosophies in life. Mama is old fashioned and traditional. Beneatha is more cool and hip. Beneatha does not like Mama's view on some things because she believes she is out of touch and too old fashioned to understand. Beneatha is more of a free spirit who wants to make something of herself. Mama also has a much stronger faith base than Beneatha. She urges Beneatha to think about her faith and think about the reasons God has done something to her but Beneatha does not go with it. I think the contrasts between Mama and Beneatha are successful in that is shows the differing ideals and attitudes in the generation gap. They do not seem to understand each other which consistently brings about disagreement and arguement. Also, the differing views characterize each of them because it relays their thoughts and ideas on a subject to the audience. In the play, there is not an omniscient narrator to tell the audience the thoughts of the characters so the arguments must happen to portray how a character reacts to a certain topic.
Study question 8 concerns characters who contrast from one another. In a raisin in the sun, Mama and Beneatha contrast each other. They have differing beliefs and philosophies in life. Mama is old fashioned and traditional. Beneatha is more cool and hip. Beneatha does not like Mama's view on some things because she believes she is out of touch and too old fashioned to understand. Beneatha is more of a free spirit who wants to make something of herself. Mama also has a much stronger faith base than Beneatha. She urges Beneatha to think about her faith and think about the reasons God has done something to her but Beneatha does not go with it. I think the contrasts between Mama and Beneatha are successful in that is shows the differing ideals and attitudes in the generation gap. They do not seem to understand each other which consistently brings about disagreement and arguement. Also, the differing views characterize each of them because it relays their thoughts and ideas on a subject to the audience. In the play, there is not an omniscient narrator to tell the audience the thoughts of the characters so the arguments must happen to portray how a character reacts to a certain topic.
A Raisin in the Sun- Study Question 12
"What I am telling you is that we called you over here to tell you that we are very proud... and we have decided to move into our house because my father- my father- he earned it for us brick by brick." PAGE 148
Study question 12 asks about the point of no return in the play. The point of no return for Walter occurs in his second conversation with Mr. Lindner. In this conversation, he finally starts thinking about the family not just himself. He puts the family's interest first. He knows that the house is what the family wants and needs. Accepting this house, even through the threats, is what is best for the family because they have all worked hard for it. His life will not be the same any longer because he has a new outlook. He is watching out for his family. He realizes that he is the leader of the family and needs to be there for them all. His conversation with Lindner symbolizes his change of heart. When he says that the family is proud, I think that is when he realizes that he really is proud too. Before he was ashamed that they did not have very much money but when he sticks up for his family to Lindner he finally believes in his family and what they have been through.
Study question 12 asks about the point of no return in the play. The point of no return for Walter occurs in his second conversation with Mr. Lindner. In this conversation, he finally starts thinking about the family not just himself. He puts the family's interest first. He knows that the house is what the family wants and needs. Accepting this house, even through the threats, is what is best for the family because they have all worked hard for it. His life will not be the same any longer because he has a new outlook. He is watching out for his family. He realizes that he is the leader of the family and needs to be there for them all. His conversation with Lindner symbolizes his change of heart. When he says that the family is proud, I think that is when he realizes that he really is proud too. Before he was ashamed that they did not have very much money but when he sticks up for his family to Lindner he finally believes in his family and what they have been through.
Monday, February 27, 2012
The Glass Menagerie
"There was a Jim O'Connor we both knew in high school-If that is the one that Tom is bringing to dinner-you'll have to excuse me, I won't come to the table." page 1264
This play has presented itself as more appealing to me. The language is much easier to follow. Also the plot of the play is more realistic. Although, the play is more realistic, some aspects still present themselves as highly unlikely. Some of the situations are blown way out of proportion which is annoying. Amanda acts like Jim is automatically going to marry Laura. She acts like this dinner is such a big deal. Really, Jim is just having dinner with them because Tom invited him, not because he has any interest in Laura. Also, Amanda worries that Laura will never get married just because she has not had as many callers as she did. Not getting married is not as bad as she makes it seem. Just because she is not married yet also does not prove that she will not. Amanda gets all dressed up as if she is the one meeting the boy and acts crazy. This was very annoying because she was very immature. Also, just because Laura knew Jim in high school should not mean that she cannot come to the table with him. He does not even remember her. She blew it way out of proportion. She did not even give the situation a chance. While the play was easier to understand, the exaggeration made some of the events annoying.
This play has presented itself as more appealing to me. The language is much easier to follow. Also the plot of the play is more realistic. Although, the play is more realistic, some aspects still present themselves as highly unlikely. Some of the situations are blown way out of proportion which is annoying. Amanda acts like Jim is automatically going to marry Laura. She acts like this dinner is such a big deal. Really, Jim is just having dinner with them because Tom invited him, not because he has any interest in Laura. Also, Amanda worries that Laura will never get married just because she has not had as many callers as she did. Not getting married is not as bad as she makes it seem. Just because she is not married yet also does not prove that she will not. Amanda gets all dressed up as if she is the one meeting the boy and acts crazy. This was very annoying because she was very immature. Also, just because Laura knew Jim in high school should not mean that she cannot come to the table with him. He does not even remember her. She blew it way out of proportion. She did not even give the situation a chance. While the play was easier to understand, the exaggeration made some of the events annoying.
The Glass Menagerie- Question 2
"To begin with, I turn back time. I reverse it to that quaint period, the thirties, when the huge middle class of America was matriculating in a school for the blind. Their eyes had failed them, or they had failed their eyes..." page 1236
This is Tom speaking as the narrator. He uses distinctly different language when he is the narrator as opposed to when he is a character. As a narrator, Tom speaks more properly. He uses more advanced diction and more complex sentence structure. As a character, Tom uses a more simple form of speaking. He uses smaller words and shorter sentences. Tom speaks differently because when he is a character, he has to portray a certain part. He must align himself with the character and how he would speak. As the narrator, he is supposed to be more objective. He must view the play as an observer rather than a participant. He uses different language in the two senses so the audience can easily tell when he is the narrator and when he is the character. If Tom used the narrator language throughout, the play would lose some of its realism. People don't actually talk the way he does as the narrator so it would not seem as real. Because he talks in a common way it is easier to believe the play. Also, the smaller sentences portray him as an uneducated character as he is.
This is Tom speaking as the narrator. He uses distinctly different language when he is the narrator as opposed to when he is a character. As a narrator, Tom speaks more properly. He uses more advanced diction and more complex sentence structure. As a character, Tom uses a more simple form of speaking. He uses smaller words and shorter sentences. Tom speaks differently because when he is a character, he has to portray a certain part. He must align himself with the character and how he would speak. As the narrator, he is supposed to be more objective. He must view the play as an observer rather than a participant. He uses different language in the two senses so the audience can easily tell when he is the narrator and when he is the character. If Tom used the narrator language throughout, the play would lose some of its realism. People don't actually talk the way he does as the narrator so it would not seem as real. Because he talks in a common way it is easier to believe the play. Also, the smaller sentences portray him as an uneducated character as he is.
The Glass Menagerie- internal conflict
"But I'm not patient. I don't want to wait till then. I'm tired of the movies and I am about to move!" page 1268
This quote provides an example of an internal conflict. Tom has an internal conflict throughout the play. First, he is in search of action and adventure. To attempt to ease this desire, he goes to the movies often. He wants to see other people's lives because he is not satisfied in his own. In this quote, Tom's internal conflict is heightened. He is no longer appeased by just going to the movies. He wants to have the experiences that the people in the movies have rather than just watching them. It is not as easy as just moving on with his life to find adventure. Tom is torn between his responsibilities at home and what he wants. What has kept him at home this long is his sister. He feels like he needs to help with his sister. He cannot stand being at home any longer. He has had enough and feels like he has to leave, no matter what. The conflict exists between what he wants to do and what he feels he ought to do.
This quote provides an example of an internal conflict. Tom has an internal conflict throughout the play. First, he is in search of action and adventure. To attempt to ease this desire, he goes to the movies often. He wants to see other people's lives because he is not satisfied in his own. In this quote, Tom's internal conflict is heightened. He is no longer appeased by just going to the movies. He wants to have the experiences that the people in the movies have rather than just watching them. It is not as easy as just moving on with his life to find adventure. Tom is torn between his responsibilities at home and what he wants. What has kept him at home this long is his sister. He feels like he needs to help with his sister. He cannot stand being at home any longer. He has had enough and feels like he has to leave, no matter what. The conflict exists between what he wants to do and what he feels he ought to do.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
As You Like It Act III
Orlando: "He is drowned in the brook: look but in, and you shall see him."
Jaques: "There I shall see mine own figure."
Orlando: "Which I take to be either a foor or a cipher."
While I was rather disappointed in the humor, or lack thereof, contained in this "comedy," some small quotes were rather witty. I thought that some of the phrases or comebacks they had were funny. This was one part that I found funny. Jaques was confused when Orlando told him where he could find a fool, but Orlando was implying it was him. I thought this was funny because it was rather short but it was making fun of someone and he did not realize it right away. The small details that probably are insignificant to the overall plot seemed to be the funniest to me. The play as a whole was a let down because I was expecting a more humorous storyline, but maybe the term comedy was vague. The small details and conversations seemed to have the most humor. I also found humor in everyone falling in love with people and having an eight person wedding. This did not happen until the end, however. The play was rather slow to get going. I felt like nothing significant happened in the first three acts, but the details ended up contributing to the conclusion.
Jaques: "There I shall see mine own figure."
Orlando: "Which I take to be either a foor or a cipher."
While I was rather disappointed in the humor, or lack thereof, contained in this "comedy," some small quotes were rather witty. I thought that some of the phrases or comebacks they had were funny. This was one part that I found funny. Jaques was confused when Orlando told him where he could find a fool, but Orlando was implying it was him. I thought this was funny because it was rather short but it was making fun of someone and he did not realize it right away. The small details that probably are insignificant to the overall plot seemed to be the funniest to me. The play as a whole was a let down because I was expecting a more humorous storyline, but maybe the term comedy was vague. The small details and conversations seemed to have the most humor. I also found humor in everyone falling in love with people and having an eight person wedding. This did not happen until the end, however. The play was rather slow to get going. I felt like nothing significant happened in the first three acts, but the details ended up contributing to the conclusion.
Indirect Characterization- As You Like It
"Indeed, my lord,
The melancholy Jaques grieves at that,
And, in that kind, swears you do more usurp...
Almost to bursting, and the big round tears
Coursed one another down his innocent nose
In piteous chase; and thus the hairy fool,
Much marked of the melancholy Jaques,
Stood on the extremists verge of the swift brook,
Augmenting it with tears." (II,i, 18)
In this quote, the first lord is characterizing Jaques. He is introduced before we actually meet him. We learn about his emotions and feelings before he enters the action. Through this conversation about him, we learn that he is very interested in the environment. He feels bad for the deer that was killed. This is an effective way of introducing the character without directly saying what he is like. This lets the audience know what the other characters think about him. Jaques does not actually enter the action right away. He is introduced by the other characters then enters later. It is hard to directly characterize in a play unless a narrator speaks. I think the introducing Jaques is effective because the audience can make judgement on him. The use of indirect characterization allows the audience to learn about Jacques before he is even in the play. This gives us background information.
The melancholy Jaques grieves at that,
And, in that kind, swears you do more usurp...
Almost to bursting, and the big round tears
Coursed one another down his innocent nose
In piteous chase; and thus the hairy fool,
Much marked of the melancholy Jaques,
Stood on the extremists verge of the swift brook,
Augmenting it with tears." (II,i, 18)
In this quote, the first lord is characterizing Jaques. He is introduced before we actually meet him. We learn about his emotions and feelings before he enters the action. Through this conversation about him, we learn that he is very interested in the environment. He feels bad for the deer that was killed. This is an effective way of introducing the character without directly saying what he is like. This lets the audience know what the other characters think about him. Jaques does not actually enter the action right away. He is introduced by the other characters then enters later. It is hard to directly characterize in a play unless a narrator speaks. I think the introducing Jaques is effective because the audience can make judgement on him. The use of indirect characterization allows the audience to learn about Jacques before he is even in the play. This gives us background information.
Parallelism- As You Like It
"I will help you, if I can: I would love you if I could. To-morrow meet me all togther. I will marry you, if ever I marry woman, and I'll be married to-morrow: I will satisfy you, if ever I satisfied man, and you shall be married to-morrow: I will content you, if what pleases you contents you, and you shall be married to-morrow." (V, ii, 71)
Rosalind uses parallelism in this scene. She is trying to satisfy everyone. Everyone seems to be in love with the wrong person at this point. Orlando loves Rosalind and is pretending to be in love with the fake man Ganymede. Phebe falls for Ganymede but Silvius is in love with Phebe. With her plan, Rosalind attempts to make sure everyone's love works out. The use of parallelism in this case with the repetition of "I will... if" shows that she is speaking to everyone equally. The use of parallelism is effective because all the scenarios deal with the same subject. The use of parallelism connects all of her efforts. The repeated sentence structure effectively demontrates the equality of the situations and that Rosalind cares about all of them equally.
Rosalind uses parallelism in this scene. She is trying to satisfy everyone. Everyone seems to be in love with the wrong person at this point. Orlando loves Rosalind and is pretending to be in love with the fake man Ganymede. Phebe falls for Ganymede but Silvius is in love with Phebe. With her plan, Rosalind attempts to make sure everyone's love works out. The use of parallelism in this case with the repetition of "I will... if" shows that she is speaking to everyone equally. The use of parallelism is effective because all the scenarios deal with the same subject. The use of parallelism connects all of her efforts. The repeated sentence structure effectively demontrates the equality of the situations and that Rosalind cares about all of them equally.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Othello Relates
Shakespeare’s “Othello,” though written several years ago, still aligns with life in 
the twenty-first century. This timeless work relays enduring themes of love, jealousy, lust, and loyalty. The the
me of jealousy presents itself consistently throughout the play in various circumstances. Jealousy over love exists as the most prominent theme still applicable to modern life. As is apparent in both the novel New Moon, the second book in the Twilight series, and the movie 27 Dresses, love evokes jealous feelings from others.
Prevalent in “Othello,” the theme of jealousy conveys the loyalty, or rather lack of loyalty that the characters possess. Throughout the play, the characters experience the joy of love, and the envy that often accompanies this emotion. Roderigo first worries about losing Desdemona and her love when
he hears that she will wed Othello. Roderigo loved Desdemona and she turned him down. He still has feelings for her and wants her love. Roderigo envies Othello, for the feelings he receives from Desdemona. Love evokes jealousy out of people because love is such a coveted emotion. Roderigo enlists the help of Iago to win the love of Desdemona. Also, Othello shows jealousy towards Cassio. He believes that Desdemona, his wife, is cheating on him with Cassio. This makes Othello jealous that Cassio receives Desdemona’s love. When Emilia learns of Othello’s feelings, she discusses the matter with Emilia. Emilia attempts to ease her frustration by saying, "[Jealous souls] are not ever jealous for the cause, but jealous for they are jealous. 'Tis a monster begot upon itself, born on itself (III, iv, 154-156)." The knowledge of love makes people jealous of that feeling. Everyone wants to be loved.
the twenty-first century. This timeless work relays enduring themes of love, jealousy, lust, and loyalty. The the
me of jealousy presents itself consistently throughout the play in various circumstances. Jealousy over love exists as the most prominent theme still applicable to modern life. As is apparent in both the novel New Moon, the second book in the Twilight series, and the movie 27 Dresses, love evokes jealous feelings from others.Prevalent in “Othello,” the theme of jealousy conveys the loyalty, or rather lack of loyalty that the characters possess. Throughout the play, the characters experience the joy of love, and the envy that often accompanies this emotion. Roderigo first worries about losing Desdemona and her love when
he hears that she will wed Othello. Roderigo loved Desdemona and she turned him down. He still has feelings for her and wants her love. Roderigo envies Othello, for the feelings he receives from Desdemona. Love evokes jealousy out of people because love is such a coveted emotion. Roderigo enlists the help of Iago to win the love of Desdemona. Also, Othello shows jealousy towards Cassio. He believes that Desdemona, his wife, is cheating on him with Cassio. This makes Othello jealous that Cassio receives Desdemona’s love. When Emilia learns of Othello’s feelings, she discusses the matter with Emilia. Emilia attempts to ease her frustration by saying, "[Jealous souls] are not ever jealous for the cause, but jealous for they are jealous. 'Tis a monster begot upon itself, born on itself (III, iv, 154-156)." The knowledge of love makes people jealous of that feeling. Everyone wants to be loved.Presently, film and literature continue to convey the same message of jealousy. Both the novel New Moon and the film 27 Dresses contain jealous characters. They are jealous of the other characters’ love or their own lack of love. Just as Roderigo is jealous over Othello’s marriage to Desdemona, Jane becomes jealous of Tess’ marriage to George in 27 Dresses. Jane has had a crush on George for several years and her younger sister, Tess, comes to visit and gets engaged to George. Jane tries to cover up her jealousy by saying she is happy for Tess and that it is not Tess’ fault because she did not know how she really felt. Jane was in love with George first just as Roderigo was in love with Desdemona before Othello. Similarly, in New Moon, Jacob loves Bella first. After moving to Forks, Bella and Jacob are introduced by their fathers. They become friends and Jacob grows to love Bella. The problem is that Bella loves Edward. Jacob loved her first, but Bella loves Edward. This evokes jealousy from Jacob. In one of his angry fits, Jacob yells, “Well, I’m so sorry that I can’t be the right kind of monster for you, Bella. I guess I’m just not as great as a bloodsucker, am I? (Meyer 307)” He wishes that he could be perfect for Bella just as Edward is perfect for Bella. The consistency between the situations in all three of these prevails as jealousy over love. All three scenarios prove that often the one who loves someone first, continues to love them even after he or she is in love with someone else.
The jealousy of love exists even when someone is already in love. Once someone is in love, he or she does not become immune to jealousy. In all three works, the timelessness of jealousy over love is evident. Just as Othello becomes jealous of Cassio when he thinks that he is having an affair with Desdemona, Kevin becomes jealous of George. Jane loves George even though he does not love her back. Kevin wants Jane to love him, not George. Kevin calls Jane out after seeing her flirt with her sister’s fiancé by saying, “And then it dawned on me. Of course you’re upset, you’re planning your sister’s wedding to the man that you’re in love with (27 Dresses).” (See video from 2:45 to 5:00) The envy plagues Kevin because he loves Jane but she does not want to love him back. The jealousy also affects people who are already in love. Even though Edward and Bella are in love, Edward still envies Jacob’s friendship with Bella. Edward knows that he will never have the same relationship with Bella that Jacob has. As much as Edward loves Bella, he knows that she also loves Jacob. He worries about the security of their relationship because he sees the way that she looks at Jacob. He is jealous because he can never have the friendship with Bella that Jacob has. Jacob pledges his loyalty to Bella by saying, “Yeah, I’ll always be your friend. No matter what you love (Meyer 409).” Edward realizes Jacob will always be around and that is why he is jealous. The various works all prove that jealousy of love persists throughout time. Various forms of jealousy exist and prevail as people envy others for their love and relationships.
Proven to be a timeless writer, Shakespeare presents themes that persist over several years. Issues of his time remain prevalent in the current culture. While culture and society have changed, the themes Shakespeare writes about continue to exist. As would be expected, t
he themes should persist for several years to come. He wrote about timeless matters such as jealousy and love which will exist as long as humanity. The human nature people will allow his work to stay relevant in the future. Jealousy and love will not leave society because the human person is the root of society. People will not be immune to these natural human emotions so the themes included in Othello will still be applicable for years to come.
Works Cited
27 Dresses. Dir. Anne Fletcher. Perf. Katherine Heigl, James Marsden, Malin Akerman, Edward
Burns, Judy Greer. 20th Century Fox, 2008. DVD.
Meyer, Stephenie. New Moon. New York: Hachette Book Group, 2007. Print. Twilight.
Perrine, Laurence. “Othello.” Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound, and Sense. Forth Worth.
Harcourt College. 2002. 161-462. Print.
he themes should persist for several years to come. He wrote about timeless matters such as jealousy and love which will exist as long as humanity. The human nature people will allow his work to stay relevant in the future. Jealousy and love will not leave society because the human person is the root of society. People will not be immune to these natural human emotions so the themes included in Othello will still be applicable for years to come.Works Cited
27 Dresses. Dir. Anne Fletcher. Perf. Katherine Heigl, James Marsden, Malin Akerman, Edward
Burns, Judy Greer. 20th Century Fox, 2008. DVD.
Meyer, Stephenie. New Moon. New York: Hachette Book Group, 2007. Print. Twilight.
Perrine, Laurence. “Othello.” Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound, and Sense. Forth Worth.
Harcourt College. 2002. 161-462. Print.
Monday, February 6, 2012
My Heart Can't Tell You No by Sara Evans
My Heart Can't Tell You No by Sara Evans
This song by Sara Evans correlates nicely to the relationship between Othello and Desdemona. The lyrics correspond to Othello's thoughts about Desdemona. He believes Desdemona likes Cassio. He thinks "the one [he] love's in love with someone else." Desdemona tries to tell him that she has been nothing but faithful and that there is nothing between Cassio and her. Othello doesn't listen. This is like in the song when she says that she wants to believe that the relationship with someone else is over. Othello wants to believe that the there is not relationship between Cassio and Desdemona, but it is hard for him because Iago is making the situation worse. Sara Evans sings about not wanting the boy to call any more and pretend to need
her. Othello similarly does not want Desdemona to pretend that she still loves him if she really doesn't. Othello wants all of Desdemona's love for himself and will not be happy sharing it with someone else. The lyrics in the song, "your crazy if you think just half your love could ever please me," are what Othello is feeling. Seeing Desdemona and Cassio together, even casually tortures him. In the song, "There's only one solution I know: you got to stay away from me, stay away from me!" Similarly, in the play Othello thinks that he has no choice but to kill Desdemona. By killing Desdemona, she will be away from him and won't be able to be unfaithful to any other men. He thinks this is the only way to fix the situation.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Act IV- Almost Busted
"With naught but truth. I have wasted myself out of my
means. The jewels you have had from me to deliver to Desdomona
would half have corrupted a votarist. You have told me she hath re-
ceived them, and returned me expectations and comforts of sudden
respect and acquaintance, but I find none." IVii 184-188
This scene had me in great anticipation. I thought someone finally was going to catch all of Iago's lies. This made me think that the situation was going to resolve itself. But then again, that would not be a typical Shakespeare tragedy. I was glad that someone was finally begin to notice who Iago really was. Then, Iago is able to manipulate his way out of trouble again. He convinces Roderigo to do something that he is supposed to do for Othello. Basically Roderigo is going to do Iago's dirty work. Iago is a very persistent man. Somehow he is able to keep causing drama that benefits him without other people catching him. Everyone trusts Iago as an honest character because of the facade he puts on when in reality he is a conniving jerk. He never even says he is sorry or gives a good excuse for all of his lies. I think he gets a rush from the way he creates all these issues and lies and tries to avoid getting caught.
means. The jewels you have had from me to deliver to Desdomona
would half have corrupted a votarist. You have told me she hath re-
ceived them, and returned me expectations and comforts of sudden
respect and acquaintance, but I find none." IVii 184-188
This scene had me in great anticipation. I thought someone finally was going to catch all of Iago's lies. This made me think that the situation was going to resolve itself. But then again, that would not be a typical Shakespeare tragedy. I was glad that someone was finally begin to notice who Iago really was. Then, Iago is able to manipulate his way out of trouble again. He convinces Roderigo to do something that he is supposed to do for Othello. Basically Roderigo is going to do Iago's dirty work. Iago is a very persistent man. Somehow he is able to keep causing drama that benefits him without other people catching him. Everyone trusts Iago as an honest character because of the facade he puts on when in reality he is a conniving jerk. He never even says he is sorry or gives a good excuse for all of his lies. I think he gets a rush from the way he creates all these issues and lies and tries to avoid getting caught.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Act V- Dynamic Character
"No, I will speak as liberal as the north.
Let Heaven and men and devils, let them all,
All, all, cry shame against me, yet I'll speak." Vii 219-221
Emilia is a dynamic character in the play Othello. When Emilia is first presented in the play, she is a quiet character. She is rather submissive to Iago. She lets him criticize and berate her. At the beginning, she foils Desdemona who is rather loud and outspoken. In Act V, Emilia begins to show other personality traits. She begins to show the complexity of her character. Emilia stands up to Iago. She shows that she is committed and loyal when she stands up for Desdemona. No matter how much Iago tells her to stop or leave, she persists. She continues to support Desdemona agains Iago. I am glad that she stood up for herself because Iago is a jerk and deserves to hear what Emilia has to say. Emilia proves to be a dynamic character in that she is quiet and submissive as well as persistent and outspoken.
Let Heaven and men and devils, let them all,
All, all, cry shame against me, yet I'll speak." Vii 219-221
Emilia is a dynamic character in the play Othello. When Emilia is first presented in the play, she is a quiet character. She is rather submissive to Iago. She lets him criticize and berate her. At the beginning, she foils Desdemona who is rather loud and outspoken. In Act V, Emilia begins to show other personality traits. She begins to show the complexity of her character. Emilia stands up to Iago. She shows that she is committed and loyal when she stands up for Desdemona. No matter how much Iago tells her to stop or leave, she persists. She continues to support Desdemona agains Iago. I am glad that she stood up for herself because Iago is a jerk and deserves to hear what Emilia has to say. Emilia proves to be a dynamic character in that she is quiet and submissive as well as persistent and outspoken.
Act V- Epithet
"I say thy husband. Dost understand the word?
My friend, thy husband, honest, honest Iago." Vii 152-153
Throughout the play, Iago is characterized as honest. All of the other characters attribute honesty to Iago because he plays to the character. He tells them all what they want to hear so they will like him. The audience knows how dishonest Iago is, but the characters all think of him as honest. The repeated reference to Iago as honest Iago reminds the audience that the characters do not know about Iago's lies. I think the use of epithet is effective because it portrays the gullibility of the other characters. Also, the epithet proves that Iago's lies have been effective. He is able to get away with the lies without people knowing he is lying until the end. The ending is more dramatic because the other people still believe Iago is honest until they put it all together at the end. When people find out that he told so many lies, they should question everything else Iago told them.
My friend, thy husband, honest, honest Iago." Vii 152-153
Throughout the play, Iago is characterized as honest. All of the other characters attribute honesty to Iago because he plays to the character. He tells them all what they want to hear so they will like him. The audience knows how dishonest Iago is, but the characters all think of him as honest. The repeated reference to Iago as honest Iago reminds the audience that the characters do not know about Iago's lies. I think the use of epithet is effective because it portrays the gullibility of the other characters. Also, the epithet proves that Iago's lies have been effective. He is able to get away with the lies without people knowing he is lying until the end. The ending is more dramatic because the other people still believe Iago is honest until they put it all together at the end. When people find out that he told so many lies, they should question everything else Iago told them.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Othello- Acts I,II,III (Iago)
"Did Michael Cassie, when you wooed my lady,
Know of your love?"
Iago IIIiii 95, 96
I would like to discuss my feelings regarding Iago. I do not like him. To me, he has the characteristics of a teenage girl. He seems to bring on drama. He likes to create drama and be a part of it. People say that teenage girls are drama queens, but he is a drama queen. He starts rumors. He manipulates people to do things that will benefit him. He makes it seem like he is helping them when in reality he is hurting them. He is also super two-faced. He acts completely different among different people. When he talks in his soliloquies, he tells how he really feels. He also reveals his true motivations. This is the only time we can trust him. Even then it is hard for me. I think he is very selfish, especially when he decides he also like Desdemona after Cassio and Roderigo both do. Iago tries to pit people against each other to create more drama. He seems to fabricate exaggerate situations to skew them in a way that he can manipulate people to make a fool of themselves. He is like a girl in that he is always looking for drama and is very two faced.
Know of your love?"
Iago IIIiii 95, 96
I would like to discuss my feelings regarding Iago. I do not like him. To me, he has the characteristics of a teenage girl. He seems to bring on drama. He likes to create drama and be a part of it. People say that teenage girls are drama queens, but he is a drama queen. He starts rumors. He manipulates people to do things that will benefit him. He makes it seem like he is helping them when in reality he is hurting them. He is also super two-faced. He acts completely different among different people. When he talks in his soliloquies, he tells how he really feels. He also reveals his true motivations. This is the only time we can trust him. Even then it is hard for me. I think he is very selfish, especially when he decides he also like Desdemona after Cassio and Roderigo both do. Iago tries to pit people against each other to create more drama. He seems to fabricate exaggerate situations to skew them in a way that he can manipulate people to make a fool of themselves. He is like a girl in that he is always looking for drama and is very two faced.
Othello-Act II (dramatic irony)
"Thus do I ever make my fool my purse,
For I mine own gained knowledge should profane
If I would time expend with such a snipe
But for my sport and profit..."
Iago IIi 363-366
The use of dramatic irony occurs in the soliloquies. Iago has several soliloquies in which he talks directly to the audience. This conveys information to the reader, or viewer, that the rest of the characters do not know. The use of dramatic irony in this play primarily gives us information about Iago. We learn about his inner thoughts and what he really thinks about situations. We learn of his plans that he uses against people. We learn about his personality and selfish nature as he plots people against each other. Iago successfully manipulates people into thinking he has their best interest in mind, and even tries to tell himself that, when in fact he is only looking out for what he wants. When he thinks he is helping Roderigo, he is also helping himself because Cassio won't get the girl and will lose his position. I think the dramatic irony is very effective in giving the audience a glimpse into the inner workings of Iago's mind. He does not act the same when others are around or tell other people his thoughts. We also see how quickly he is able to change emotion. We see that he is successful in putting on a show for other characters so they believe what he is saying.
For I mine own gained knowledge should profane
If I would time expend with such a snipe
But for my sport and profit..."
Iago IIi 363-366
The use of dramatic irony occurs in the soliloquies. Iago has several soliloquies in which he talks directly to the audience. This conveys information to the reader, or viewer, that the rest of the characters do not know. The use of dramatic irony in this play primarily gives us information about Iago. We learn about his inner thoughts and what he really thinks about situations. We learn of his plans that he uses against people. We learn about his personality and selfish nature as he plots people against each other. Iago successfully manipulates people into thinking he has their best interest in mind, and even tries to tell himself that, when in fact he is only looking out for what he wants. When he thinks he is helping Roderigo, he is also helping himself because Cassio won't get the girl and will lose his position. I think the dramatic irony is very effective in giving the audience a glimpse into the inner workings of Iago's mind. He does not act the same when others are around or tell other people his thoughts. We also see how quickly he is able to change emotion. We see that he is successful in putting on a show for other characters so they believe what he is saying.
Othello-Act I (in medias res)
"Tush, never tell me! I take it much unkinly
That thou, Iago, who hast had my purse
As if the strings were thine, shouldst know of this."
Roderigo Ii 1-5
The play begins in the middle of the action. From this point, background information is given in parts. Starting in medias res makes it more appealing to the reader to hear background information. Rather than just simply stating what is going on and what happened previously, the reader must use deduction from the action and dialogue from here to familiarize with the plot. Starting in the middle of the action also proves to be effective because the action and arguing start right away. Iago and Roderigo have several similar conversations. From the beginning, the reader is able to notice that Iago and Roderigo do not always see eye to eye. I think the reason for starting in the middle was that the action can now stem from this. Rather than focusing on past events, the reader focuses on the hear and now without reading too much into what led to the current situation. A story has to start somewhere and it is nearly impossible to start at the very beginning of a story and be able to present it in a reasonable amount of time.
That thou, Iago, who hast had my purse
As if the strings were thine, shouldst know of this."
Roderigo Ii 1-5
The play begins in the middle of the action. From this point, background information is given in parts. Starting in medias res makes it more appealing to the reader to hear background information. Rather than just simply stating what is going on and what happened previously, the reader must use deduction from the action and dialogue from here to familiarize with the plot. Starting in the middle of the action also proves to be effective because the action and arguing start right away. Iago and Roderigo have several similar conversations. From the beginning, the reader is able to notice that Iago and Roderigo do not always see eye to eye. I think the reason for starting in the middle was that the action can now stem from this. Rather than focusing on past events, the reader focuses on the hear and now without reading too much into what led to the current situation. A story has to start somewhere and it is nearly impossible to start at the very beginning of a story and be able to present it in a reasonable amount of time.
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