"'I suppose they will all want dignity,' I said." (pg. 212)
This blog definitely enforces that all people deserved dignity. Even if they are Germans, Vonnegut shows how they deserve a certain respect for being a human being. This echoes in each character's life. However, the problem arises that not all receive the dignity that they deserve. In the bombings, completely innocent lives are lost. These people did nothing wrong except for the fact that they were German. War completely ignores this dignity. It kills indiscriminately. Vonnegut's anti-war theme rings out in this quote.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Slaughterhouse-Five
"One of the main effects of war, after all, is that people are discouraged from being characters. But old Derby was a character now." (pg. 164)
For some reason, I absolutely loved this quote. It really makes me want to watch Saving Private Ryan. I think its because the quote echoes in that story too. Often times, its easier to just blend in with the crowd. In war, there is little point of getting to know someone because of the chance that one of you will die. Vonnegut gives us little description of the characters besides Billy. Most of them are dead by the end of the story. In Saving Private Ryan, many men have to risk their lives to save one, and most of them die in the mission. Both stories show how war not only kills soldiers but also affects the lives around them.
For some reason, I absolutely loved this quote. It really makes me want to watch Saving Private Ryan. I think its because the quote echoes in that story too. Often times, its easier to just blend in with the crowd. In war, there is little point of getting to know someone because of the chance that one of you will die. Vonnegut gives us little description of the characters besides Billy. Most of them are dead by the end of the story. In Saving Private Ryan, many men have to risk their lives to save one, and most of them die in the mission. Both stories show how war not only kills soldiers but also affects the lives around them.
Slaughterhouse-Five - Dramatic Irony
"You needn't worry about bombs, by the way. Dresden is an open city. It is undefended, and contains no war industries or troop concentrations of any importance." (pg. 146)
This quote is an example of dramatic irony. The characters (minus Billy because he's a time traveller or whatnot) believe that Dresden has a zero percent chance of being bombed. They believe that the Allied troops would aim for more important cities. The irony in this is the Dresden was one of the worst bombings in history. Its just this peaceful little city, and then all of a sudden, boom. Its gone. The reader knows this because of history and because both Vonnegut and Billy have told us. Also, this reinforces the theme of the destructiveness of war. Even though the citizens of Dresden should have been safe, the Allied troops bomb their city. No one knows the extent of the damage of a war until it is too late.
Slaughterhouse-Five - Motif
"So it goes." (pretty much every single page)
The phrase "so it goes" is repeated countless times in the novel. It is preceded by a death or some other terrible incident. The phrase is very nonchalant and unemotional. This is, however, not because the author does not care. The phrase signifies that all of these deaths are equal. It does not matter how the deaths happened. Someone is still dead. The tone of the phrase adds more weight to the deaths. By acting as if the deaths are not a big deal, it actually adds gravity to each event.
The phrase "so it goes" is repeated countless times in the novel. It is preceded by a death or some other terrible incident. The phrase is very nonchalant and unemotional. This is, however, not because the author does not care. The phrase signifies that all of these deaths are equal. It does not matter how the deaths happened. Someone is still dead. The tone of the phrase adds more weight to the deaths. By acting as if the deaths are not a big deal, it actually adds gravity to each event.
Slaughterhouse-Five - Theme
"When he finally came back, he told superior on the rim of the hole that there were dozens of bodies down there. They were sitting on benches. They were unmarked. So it goes." (pg. 214)
One of the major themes of this book is the atrocious effects of war. This prevalent in the bombings of Dresden. Even though Rumfoord says that the bombing was necessary, the description of the town and historical records show that it wasn't. It was the complete destruction of a city with little to no military value. In addition, in the quote, the bodies are unmarked. War does not discriminate between the guilty and the innocent. It is by chance that people live or die. Because of the War on Terrorism, I could literally get bombed right now sitting here. Even though I haven't done anything to the bomber, I would be killed all the same. As Mary notes in the beginning of the novel, the people killed in wars are just babies. War does not make exceptions.
One of the major themes of this book is the atrocious effects of war. This prevalent in the bombings of Dresden. Even though Rumfoord says that the bombing was necessary, the description of the town and historical records show that it wasn't. It was the complete destruction of a city with little to no military value. In addition, in the quote, the bodies are unmarked. War does not discriminate between the guilty and the innocent. It is by chance that people live or die. Because of the War on Terrorism, I could literally get bombed right now sitting here. Even though I haven't done anything to the bomber, I would be killed all the same. As Mary notes in the beginning of the novel, the people killed in wars are just babies. War does not make exceptions.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Slaughterhouse Five - Blog 5
"That was I. That was me. That was the author of this book." (pg. 125)
I am definitely enjoying the style of Vonnegut's writing. It is very entertaining and easy to read. These types of passages in which he interjects himself into the story make the story seem as if it actually happened. His frankness and dry humor make readers think not only about the story, but about the meanings behind the story. From the very beginning, Vonnegut said that this book was an anti-war book. This theme is echoed throughout the story.
I am definitely enjoying the style of Vonnegut's writing. It is very entertaining and easy to read. These types of passages in which he interjects himself into the story make the story seem as if it actually happened. His frankness and dry humor make readers think not only about the story, but about the meanings behind the story. From the very beginning, Vonnegut said that this book was an anti-war book. This theme is echoed throughout the story.
Slaughterhouse Five - Blog 4
"There used to be a dog named Spot, but he died. So it goes. Billy had liked Spot a lot, and Spot had liked him." (pg. 62)
This book is full of randomness. The author randomly interjects into the story. Billy randomly travels in time. There isn't a very clear plot line. Little paragraphs like this seem to have no meaning. They seem to be random comments the author is making about Billy's life. However, these types of things are not random. Vonnegut's style in this novel makes it seem as if there are little random things. Each of these peculiarities about the novel mean something. This passage highlights Billy's loneliness in his life.
This book is full of randomness. The author randomly interjects into the story. Billy randomly travels in time. There isn't a very clear plot line. Little paragraphs like this seem to have no meaning. They seem to be random comments the author is making about Billy's life. However, these types of things are not random. Vonnegut's style in this novel makes it seem as if there are little random things. Each of these peculiarities about the novel mean something. This passage highlights Billy's loneliness in his life.
Slaughterhouse Five - Tone
"When the food came in, the human beings were quiet and trusting and beautiful. They shared." (pg. 70)
This novel is full of sarcasm. The author's tone is often clearly sarcastic. In this example, the soldiers have been treated badly and been given little food. Obviously, once they do receive food, they are all going to get whatever they can. The author could have simply described that they weren't sharing. However, the sarcasm creates a much stronger image. It makes the reader smile at the absurdity of the statement, but also makes them recognize how human nature can be. The greed and desperation of these men cause them to take all they can and not worry about how the others fare.
This novel is full of sarcasm. The author's tone is often clearly sarcastic. In this example, the soldiers have been treated badly and been given little food. Obviously, once they do receive food, they are all going to get whatever they can. The author could have simply described that they weren't sharing. However, the sarcasm creates a much stronger image. It makes the reader smile at the absurdity of the statement, but also makes them recognize how human nature can be. The greed and desperation of these men cause them to take all they can and not worry about how the others fare.
Slaughterhouse Five - Simile
"The gun made a ripping sound like the opening of the zipper on the fly of the Almighty God." (pg. 34)
This quote is an example of a simile. The author uses lots of figurative language throughout the book. In this example, the author is comparing the sound of a gun to the zipper on God's pants. Usually, a simile would compare something foreign to something that the reader would understand. However, neither of the parts of this simile would probably be something a reader would be familiar with. The use of two unfamiliar parts of a simile show how the sound was so foreign to Weary. A reader could imagine either sound, but not really know how they would sound. Weary had imagined how a gun would sound when he fired it, but he did not truly understand.
This quote is an example of a simile. The author uses lots of figurative language throughout the book. In this example, the author is comparing the sound of a gun to the zipper on God's pants. Usually, a simile would compare something foreign to something that the reader would understand. However, neither of the parts of this simile would probably be something a reader would be familiar with. The use of two unfamiliar parts of a simile show how the sound was so foreign to Weary. A reader could imagine either sound, but not really know how they would sound. Weary had imagined how a gun would sound when he fired it, but he did not truly understand.
Slaughterhouse Five - Allusion
"This one is a failure, and had to be, since it was written by a pillar of salt." (pg. 22)
This quote is an allusion to the story of Lot's wife in the Bible. As the narrator notes, she was warned not to look back on the destruction of the city. However, she did turn around, and because of this, God turned her into a pillar of salt. The author is alluding to her humanity as she turns around to view all the lives that are being destroyed. Even though these people were corrupt and being punished by God, she could not help that her heart went out to them. The narrator is comparing himself to Lot's wife. Even though some of the people in his story are not necessarily good, he still feels for them. It is for this reason that there is no clear antagonist. The narrator's humanity makes it impossible for him to turn his back on any character and turn them into the villain.
This quote is an allusion to the story of Lot's wife in the Bible. As the narrator notes, she was warned not to look back on the destruction of the city. However, she did turn around, and because of this, God turned her into a pillar of salt. The author is alluding to her humanity as she turns around to view all the lives that are being destroyed. Even though these people were corrupt and being punished by God, she could not help that her heart went out to them. The narrator is comparing himself to Lot's wife. Even though some of the people in his story are not necessarily good, he still feels for them. It is for this reason that there is no clear antagonist. The narrator's humanity makes it impossible for him to turn his back on any character and turn them into the villain.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Frankenstein
"For this purpose I will preserve my life: to execute this dear revenge..." (pg. 150)
Revenge is also a huge theme for this novel. The creature wants revenge on Victor for leaving him. He also wants revenge on all humans for treating him rudely. Victor wants revenge on the creature for all the people that he killed. Clearly though, revenge doesn't get he characters anywhere. It just leads them to death and unhappiness. The message is strongly against revenge.
Revenge is also a huge theme for this novel. The creature wants revenge on Victor for leaving him. He also wants revenge on all humans for treating him rudely. Victor wants revenge on the creature for all the people that he killed. Clearly though, revenge doesn't get he characters anywhere. It just leads them to death and unhappiness. The message is strongly against revenge.
Frankenstein
"A fever succeeded to this." (pg. 130)
Victor's continually terrible health is rather annoying. He is ill all the time, and quit a lot of the events of the story would be different or avoided had he not been so ill. Victor is sick for pretty much the entire story. Its honestly kind of pathetic. He should be up fixing his mistakes. He not only gets a fever once, but twice. In addition, he spends a ton of time moping. After he destroys the second creature, he lays down and takes a nap.
Victor's continually terrible health is rather annoying. He is ill all the time, and quit a lot of the events of the story would be different or avoided had he not been so ill. Victor is sick for pretty much the entire story. Its honestly kind of pathetic. He should be up fixing his mistakes. He not only gets a fever once, but twice. In addition, he spends a ton of time moping. After he destroys the second creature, he lays down and takes a nap.
Frankenstein - Fate
"I felt as if I had committed some great crime, the consciousness of which haunted me. I was guiltless, but I had indeed drawn down a horrible curse upon my head, as mortal as that of crime." (pg. 118)
There is no way that Victor is blameless. Throughout the story, he discusses fate and the creation of the monster as if it were destiny and he had no choice. However, Victor made decisions. He had a choice to do everything that he did. He has no one to blame but himself. Each step of the way, he acted. It all started when he created the creature, and it continued when he left him alone. He never even tried to give the creature the love and attention that he so clearly desired. Victor does not take responsibility for his actions until the end of the story when it is too late. Victor's decisions, not fate, created the events of this story.
There is no way that Victor is blameless. Throughout the story, he discusses fate and the creation of the monster as if it were destiny and he had no choice. However, Victor made decisions. He had a choice to do everything that he did. He has no one to blame but himself. Each step of the way, he acted. It all started when he created the creature, and it continued when he left him alone. He never even tried to give the creature the love and attention that he so clearly desired. Victor does not take responsibility for his actions until the end of the story when it is too late. Victor's decisions, not fate, created the events of this story.
Frankenstein - theme - isolation
"You and your family are the friends whom I seek. Do not you desert me in the hour of trial!" (pg. 96)
The creature's hope to be loved is based on the De Lacy family. However, the family rejects him once they seen him. At this moment, the creature experiences the true feeling of alienation. He has been observing this family for months now. He has even taken to calling them his protectors. He has set all of his hopes for a future on this family. When they reject him, he is utterly alone. Because of this and other such rejections, he takes his feelings out on others. In a way, this story speaks about how rejection and loneliness can lead people to do things that would naturally out of their character.
The creature's hope to be loved is based on the De Lacy family. However, the family rejects him once they seen him. At this moment, the creature experiences the true feeling of alienation. He has been observing this family for months now. He has even taken to calling them his protectors. He has set all of his hopes for a future on this family. When they reject him, he is utterly alone. Because of this and other such rejections, he takes his feelings out on others. In a way, this story speaks about how rejection and loneliness can lead people to do things that would naturally out of their character.
Frankenstein - Dramatic Irony
"And then I thought again of his words- 'I will be with you on your wedding night.'... In that hour I should die, and at once satisfy and extinguish his malice" (123).
Victor believes that the creature is going to kill him on his wedding night. However, the dramatic irony is that the reader knows that the creature is not going to kill Victor, but his new wife. Victor has never been threatened himself by the creature. He himself has never actually been in danger. The creature has been targeting Victor's loved ones. In a form of poetic justice, the creature will kill Elizabeth as revenge for Victor's refusal to make a companion for him.
Victor believes that the creature is going to kill him on his wedding night. However, the dramatic irony is that the reader knows that the creature is not going to kill Victor, but his new wife. Victor has never been threatened himself by the creature. He himself has never actually been in danger. The creature has been targeting Victor's loved ones. In a form of poetic justice, the creature will kill Elizabeth as revenge for Victor's refusal to make a companion for him.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Frankenstein
"Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the molding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features." (pg. 17)
This story seems to portray a huge connection between appearance and personality. The above description is about Elizabeth, who is one of the sweetest, loving people in the story. The mother, also, was both kind and beautiful. William, who seems to be adorable, is loved by everyone. The family that the creature observes is described as graceful and beautiful. The only one who doesn't necessarily fit this mold is the creature. Although his appearance is hideous, his personality may not follow that. Frankenstein believes him to be evil when he sees him, and everyone else has felt the same way. However, the creature claims that his nature is to be kind and benevolent, which would be in contrast to his hideous appearance.
This story seems to portray a huge connection between appearance and personality. The above description is about Elizabeth, who is one of the sweetest, loving people in the story. The mother, also, was both kind and beautiful. William, who seems to be adorable, is loved by everyone. The family that the creature observes is described as graceful and beautiful. The only one who doesn't necessarily fit this mold is the creature. Although his appearance is hideous, his personality may not follow that. Frankenstein believes him to be evil when he sees him, and everyone else has felt the same way. However, the creature claims that his nature is to be kind and benevolent, which would be in contrast to his hideous appearance.
Frankenstein
"I imagined that they would be disgusted, until, by my gentle demeanor and conciliating words, I should first win their favor, and afterwards their love." (pg. 81)
This is what the creature's plan was to become a part of the family that he observed. I predict that reality comes nothing close to this. Based on past experience, the creature will probably terrify the family. He has already noted that he himself was terrified upon seeing his image. The creature hopes to be integrated into the family that he has been observing. Chances are that they will run away in fear like everyone else has. Even if they do get to the point of communicating, if the creature tells them that he was spying on them for months, I don't think they will accept that lightly. The only redeeming hope he has if he tells them that he was the one chopping wood and shoveling snow. However, based on the creature's conversation with Frankenstein, it seems that things did not go according to plan.
This is what the creature's plan was to become a part of the family that he observed. I predict that reality comes nothing close to this. Based on past experience, the creature will probably terrify the family. He has already noted that he himself was terrified upon seeing his image. The creature hopes to be integrated into the family that he has been observing. Chances are that they will run away in fear like everyone else has. Even if they do get to the point of communicating, if the creature tells them that he was spying on them for months, I don't think they will accept that lightly. The only redeeming hope he has if he tells them that he was the one chopping wood and shoveling snow. However, based on the creature's conversation with Frankenstein, it seems that things did not go according to plan.
Frankenstein - Allusion
"Remember, that I am thy creature; I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel, whom thou drives from joy for no misdeed." (pg. 69)
In this line, the creature makes an allusion to the Bible. The creature is noting how Frankenstein mistreated his own work. Frankenstein should have cared for the creature as God cared for Adam. If Frankenstein had attended to what the creature says are his duties, then the past two years would have been radically different for the both of them. However, Frankenstein clearly does not nurture and care for the creature as God cared for Adam. Before the creature comes to life, Frankenstein loved it. However, as soon as its life began, the creature was seen as evil. Frankenstein immediately judges the creature to be inherently bad, when the creature actually meant him no harm.
In this line, the creature makes an allusion to the Bible. The creature is noting how Frankenstein mistreated his own work. Frankenstein should have cared for the creature as God cared for Adam. If Frankenstein had attended to what the creature says are his duties, then the past two years would have been radically different for the both of them. However, Frankenstein clearly does not nurture and care for the creature as God cared for Adam. Before the creature comes to life, Frankenstein loved it. However, as soon as its life began, the creature was seen as evil. Frankenstein immediately judges the creature to be inherently bad, when the creature actually meant him no harm.
Frankenstein - Theme - Nature vs. Nurture
"I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend." (pg. 69)
Clearly, when the creature first comes to life, Frankenstein is terrified of him. He believed that his creation would be wonderful and spent years making him. However, at the first spark of life, he runs away with fear. Frankenstein immediately judges the creature to be evil. However, when we first meet the creature, he insists that he used to be good. He tells the story of the family that he helped. He had nothing but good intentions for them. By nature, the creature was not evil, but good. By nurture, how people treated him, the creature lost that trait.
Clearly, when the creature first comes to life, Frankenstein is terrified of him. He believed that his creation would be wonderful and spent years making him. However, at the first spark of life, he runs away with fear. Frankenstein immediately judges the creature to be evil. However, when we first meet the creature, he insists that he used to be good. He tells the story of the family that he helped. He had nothing but good intentions for them. By nature, the creature was not evil, but good. By nurture, how people treated him, the creature lost that trait.
Frankenstein - Parallelism
"Unhappy man! Do you share my madness? Have you drunk also of the intoxicating draught?" (pg. 12)
There are many parallelisms between Walton and Frankenstein's stories. Walton is on a quest to know what is at the North Pole. He desires to understand how compasses always point to the north pole. Frankenstein was determined to know everything about science and eventually, to create a living being. Walton has said on numerous occasions that he would risk a few men's lives if it meant that he made it to the North Pole. Frankenstein does not consider the negative consequences, but only strives to achieve his goal. Also, Walton's journey takes him far away from his friends and family (especially his sister). Frankenstein is gone from his home for 6 years with little contact between him and his family.
There are many parallelisms between Walton and Frankenstein's stories. Walton is on a quest to know what is at the North Pole. He desires to understand how compasses always point to the north pole. Frankenstein was determined to know everything about science and eventually, to create a living being. Walton has said on numerous occasions that he would risk a few men's lives if it meant that he made it to the North Pole. Frankenstein does not consider the negative consequences, but only strives to achieve his goal. Also, Walton's journey takes him far away from his friends and family (especially his sister). Frankenstein is gone from his home for 6 years with little contact between him and his family.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Death of a Salesman - Sympathy?
WILLY - "Tell you a secret, boys. Don't breathe it to a soul. Someday I'll have my own business, and I'll never have to leave home any more" (Death of a Salesman, 1559).
Upon first finishing the play, I felt absolutely no sympathy for Willy. I believed that he was prideful and cruel to his family. While most of me still believes that to be true, a part of me feels bad for Willy. He got sucked into the trap of society. He believed that wealth and "success" were the only important parts of life. Because of how he believed that he had to live his life, he missed the beautiful parts of his life, like his wife and sons. He had all these grand dreams, like most people have, and he just couldn't let them go. It's like he never had a chance.
Upon first finishing the play, I felt absolutely no sympathy for Willy. I believed that he was prideful and cruel to his family. While most of me still believes that to be true, a part of me feels bad for Willy. He got sucked into the trap of society. He believed that wealth and "success" were the only important parts of life. Because of how he believed that he had to live his life, he missed the beautiful parts of his life, like his wife and sons. He had all these grand dreams, like most people have, and he just couldn't let them go. It's like he never had a chance.
Death of a Salesman - Social Commentary?
5. Some critics have viewed Death of a Salesman entirely as a social commentary. To what extent do you consider this evaluation valid or invalid?
LINDA - "I made the last payment on the house today. Today, dear. And there'll be nobody home. We're free and clear." -page 1630
I believe that Death of a Salesman is in fact a social commentary. One of the main things it comments on is the American Dream. For many, that says that people have to be rich, own all the greatest appliances, and be on top of their career. This is the dream that Willy has for his life and for his family. However, I believe that Miller is commentating that this is not what the American Dream is all about. I believe that in the end of the play, Biff embodies what the Dream should really be about: freedom. Biff is finally free from his father's expectations and is now able to live as he chooses. I believe that Miller is saying that the American Dream has been skewed by what the media and society believe is important, when the real dream is about freedom (Biff's ability to finally determine his own life) , family (Linda's enduring dedication to her family), and comradeship (Charley's willingness to always help Willy).
LINDA - "I made the last payment on the house today. Today, dear. And there'll be nobody home. We're free and clear." -page 1630
I believe that Death of a Salesman is in fact a social commentary. One of the main things it comments on is the American Dream. For many, that says that people have to be rich, own all the greatest appliances, and be on top of their career. This is the dream that Willy has for his life and for his family. However, I believe that Miller is commentating that this is not what the American Dream is all about. I believe that in the end of the play, Biff embodies what the Dream should really be about: freedom. Biff is finally free from his father's expectations and is now able to live as he chooses. I believe that Miller is saying that the American Dream has been skewed by what the media and society believe is important, when the real dream is about freedom (Biff's ability to finally determine his own life) , family (Linda's enduring dedication to her family), and comradeship (Charley's willingness to always help Willy).
Death of a Salesman - Tragic Flaw
2. Regardless of your answers to question 1, there can be little doubt that Willy Loman is the victim of a "tragic flaw." Can you isolate that flaw? Is it Willy's own tragic flaw that causes his downfall? It it society's? Is it a combination of both?
CHARLEY: You want a job?
WILLY: I got a job, I told you that. [After a slight pause] What the hell are you offering me a job for?
CHARLEY: Don’t get insulted.
WILLY: Don’t insult me
I believe that Willy's tragic flaw is his pride. He has all of these grand dreams, but his pride prevents him from making these dreams true. He refuses to take any small jobs that would lead to the important ones. He wants to simply be on top and considers it a disgrace to be anywhere else. His pride also prevents him from seeing any problems with his life until it's too late. As shown by his memories, he believes that Biff is perfect, and even when Biff has flunked math and doesn't evolve into Willy's definition of successful, he still refuses to see his son as anything else. Willy believes that he is better than everyone else. He thinks that he is more successful than Charley even though the opposite is true. Charley was offering him a job, but his pride refuses to let him take it.
CHARLEY: You want a job?
WILLY: I got a job, I told you that. [After a slight pause] What the hell are you offering me a job for?
CHARLEY: Don’t get insulted.
WILLY: Don’t insult me
I believe that Willy's tragic flaw is his pride. He has all of these grand dreams, but his pride prevents him from making these dreams true. He refuses to take any small jobs that would lead to the important ones. He wants to simply be on top and considers it a disgrace to be anywhere else. His pride also prevents him from seeing any problems with his life until it's too late. As shown by his memories, he believes that Biff is perfect, and even when Biff has flunked math and doesn't evolve into Willy's definition of successful, he still refuses to see his son as anything else. Willy believes that he is better than everyone else. He thinks that he is more successful than Charley even though the opposite is true. Charley was offering him a job, but his pride refuses to let him take it.
Monday, February 27, 2012
The glass Menagerie
"I go to movies because-I like adventure. Adventure is something I don't have much of at work, so I go to the movies." (pg. 1252)
All of the Wingfields are dreamers. Amanda dreams about her son being rich and her daughter being popular. She wants Tom to have a secure job so that he can have nice things. She wants Laura to be a businesswoman or have lots of suitors and get married. She doesn't see what her children really are or what they want. Tom wants adventure. He wants to write poems and have an interesting life, but he works at a warehouse. He doesn't have adventure in his life, so he likes to go to the movies and dream he does. Laura lives in the world of her glass figures. She can't deal well with the real world, so she hides in the house and polishes her little animal figurines. She doesn't see that this isn't the real world and that she can't live like that forever.
All of the Wingfields are dreamers. Amanda dreams about her son being rich and her daughter being popular. She wants Tom to have a secure job so that he can have nice things. She wants Laura to be a businesswoman or have lots of suitors and get married. She doesn't see what her children really are or what they want. Tom wants adventure. He wants to write poems and have an interesting life, but he works at a warehouse. He doesn't have adventure in his life, so he likes to go to the movies and dream he does. Laura lives in the world of her glass figures. She can't deal well with the real world, so she hides in the house and polishes her little animal figurines. She doesn't see that this isn't the real world and that she can't live like that forever.
The Glass Menagerie - Complex Family Relationship
"I'm going to opium dens! Yes, opium dens, dens of vice and criminals' hang outs, Mother. I've joined the Hogan gang, I'm a hired assassin, I carry a tommy-gun in a violin case!I run a string of cat-houses in the Valley! they call me Killer, Killer Wingfield, I'm leading a double-life, a simple, honest warehouse worker by day, by night a dynamic czar of the underworld, Mother." (pg. 1247)
Even though this family loves each other very much, they also get on each others' nerves. In this example, Amanda is yelling at Tom for going to the movies every night. However, she believes that he is really doing something much worse. Tom is frustrated with his life, and he is angry by her invasion of his privacy. Laura is the peacemaker, and she tries to get them to reconcile. Even though Tom and Amanda get very angry with each other, they forgive each other in the end and fix their relationship. Amanda, as a mother, cares for her children very much and wants the best for them. However, this comes off in the wrong way. She wants Tom to be rich and have a nice job. She wants Laura to either be a successful businesswoman or get married. These are things that she wants though, and not necessarily what her children want. This leads to much of the conflict.
Even though this family loves each other very much, they also get on each others' nerves. In this example, Amanda is yelling at Tom for going to the movies every night. However, she believes that he is really doing something much worse. Tom is frustrated with his life, and he is angry by her invasion of his privacy. Laura is the peacemaker, and she tries to get them to reconcile. Even though Tom and Amanda get very angry with each other, they forgive each other in the end and fix their relationship. Amanda, as a mother, cares for her children very much and wants the best for them. However, this comes off in the wrong way. She wants Tom to be rich and have a nice job. She wants Laura to either be a successful businesswoman or get married. These are things that she wants though, and not necessarily what her children want. This leads to much of the conflict.
The Glass Menagerie - Realism vs. Nonrealism
"The play is memory. Being a memory play, it is dimly lighted, it is sentimental, it is not realistic. In memory everything seems to happen to music. That explains the fiddle in the wings. I am the narrator of the play, and also a character in it." (pg. 12360
This play is full of both nonrealism and realism. One of the most important examples of nonrealism is that Tom can address the audience. He talks to the audience and explains things to them. He can direct the play, as shown on page 1238 when he motions to get more light on Amanda. Another example of nonrealism is that for most of the play, there are only three characters, and then at the end there are only four. Examples of realism include how the family interacts with each other. They fight and disagree, but in the end they love each other. They also talk realistically. They don't always speak in complete sentences.
This play is full of both nonrealism and realism. One of the most important examples of nonrealism is that Tom can address the audience. He talks to the audience and explains things to them. He can direct the play, as shown on page 1238 when he motions to get more light on Amanda. Another example of nonrealism is that for most of the play, there are only three characters, and then at the end there are only four. Examples of realism include how the family interacts with each other. They fight and disagree, but in the end they love each other. They also talk realistically. They don't always speak in complete sentences.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
"As You Like It" - The End
"His crown bequeathing to his banish'd brother,
And all their lands restored to them again
That were with him exiled." (pg. 78)
This play is the ultimate happy wedding. No person is left out of the perfect conclusion. Everyone gets what they want. There are three weddings. Oliver and Orlando reconcile. Duke Senior gets his dukedom back. Duke Frederick decides he loves religion. Orlando is the heir to the dukedom and Oliver gets to keep all of his possessions. Everyone who was in the forest with Duke Senior gets to spend the rest of their lives partying in the castle. Honestly, I was really irritated with this ending. I know that this was supposed to be a comedy, but it was a total letdown. After reading Othello, I wanted at least a semblance of drama.
And all their lands restored to them again
That were with him exiled." (pg. 78)
This play is the ultimate happy wedding. No person is left out of the perfect conclusion. Everyone gets what they want. There are three weddings. Oliver and Orlando reconcile. Duke Senior gets his dukedom back. Duke Frederick decides he loves religion. Orlando is the heir to the dukedom and Oliver gets to keep all of his possessions. Everyone who was in the forest with Duke Senior gets to spend the rest of their lives partying in the castle. Honestly, I was really irritated with this ending. I know that this was supposed to be a comedy, but it was a total letdown. After reading Othello, I wanted at least a semblance of drama.
"As You Like It" - Dynamic Character
"'T was I; but 't is not I: I do not shame
To tell you what I was, since my conversion
So sweetly tastes, being the thing I am." (pg. 65)
Oliver is a dynamic character who changes from cruel and bitter to kind and loving. In the beginning of the play, Oliver loved power and mistreated his brother Orlando. This begins to change when Duke Frederick gives him a taste of his own medicine. Duke Frederick threatens to take away all of Oliver's possessions if he does not bring back Orlando. Then, when Oliver is almost killed and Orlando saves him, he realizes that he should not turn in his brother to Duke Frederick. The last thing that changes Oliver is Celia. Oliver's love for Celia turns him into a better person. He gives up all of his possessions to Orlando so that he can live as a shepherd in the forest with Celia.
To tell you what I was, since my conversion
So sweetly tastes, being the thing I am." (pg. 65)
Oliver is a dynamic character who changes from cruel and bitter to kind and loving. In the beginning of the play, Oliver loved power and mistreated his brother Orlando. This begins to change when Duke Frederick gives him a taste of his own medicine. Duke Frederick threatens to take away all of Oliver's possessions if he does not bring back Orlando. Then, when Oliver is almost killed and Orlando saves him, he realizes that he should not turn in his brother to Duke Frederick. The last thing that changes Oliver is Celia. Oliver's love for Celia turns him into a better person. He gives up all of his possessions to Orlando so that he can live as a shepherd in the forest with Celia.
"As You Like It" - Theme
"...for my father's house and all the revenue that was old Sir Rowland's will I estate upon you..." (pg. 69)
One of the major themes of this play was the power of love to heal relationships. One way this is evident is how Oliver fixes his relationship with Orlando. He does this after he falls in love with Celia. He reconciles with his brother and gives Orlando all of his possessions because of his love for Celia. In the same way, Orlando's love for Rosalind helps to heal the brothers' relationship. Because of his love for Rosalind, Orlando is able to overcome is bitterness from how Oliver treated him. After Orlando falls in love, he is able to forgive Oliver. The brothers' relationship is healed as a result of their love for Celia and Rosalind and how that love changes them.
One of the major themes of this play was the power of love to heal relationships. One way this is evident is how Oliver fixes his relationship with Orlando. He does this after he falls in love with Celia. He reconciles with his brother and gives Orlando all of his possessions because of his love for Celia. In the same way, Orlando's love for Rosalind helps to heal the brothers' relationship. Because of his love for Rosalind, Orlando is able to overcome is bitterness from how Oliver treated him. After Orlando falls in love, he is able to forgive Oliver. The brothers' relationship is healed as a result of their love for Celia and Rosalind and how that love changes them.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Reflective Essay
Everyone will face some time in their life when they must be courageous. In the Shakespearean play Othello, Othello must show this bravery when his love for Desdemona is tested by her father Brabantio. Othello is accused of many evil tricks, but he remains determined that his love for his wife is true. This theme of showing and defending love in the face of courage is timeless; it is present in the Gay Rights Movement and the young adult novel Perfect Chemistry.
Whether one believes the homosexual way of life to be correct or incorrect, these people are in defiance of the standard way of believing. Showing romantic love for someone of the same sex takes an immense amount of courage. Often times, they are faced with ridicule, prejudice, and hate. Despite this, they remain firm in their love for their partner and deal with the social rejection. It is not uncommon that they face violence and hate crimes. For example, three men were just arrested for threatening violence against homosexuals. They distributed pamphlets “that showed an image of a mannequin hanging from a noose...said capital punishment was the only way to rid society of homosexuality.” ("Gay Killing Trio under New Hate Crime Legislation.") [The entire article can be read here] When Othello confesses his love for Desdemona, everyone is upset by how unorthodox their relationship is. Brabantio even tells Othello “Damned as thou art, thou hast enchanted her!” (I.ii.63) Othello faces hate from all of these people, yet he remains firm in his love for Desdemona, similar to how in homosexuals stay strong against ridicule for their love for their partners.
The Gay Rights Movement
In addition to the Gay Rights Movement, the theme of being courageous when showing love is present in the young adult novel Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles. [The book's website can be found here] The story centers around Brittany, a typical privileged girl and Alex, a Mexican gang member. Much to the objection of their friends and family, they fall in love. Brittany’s mother, who wants her daughter to be the perfect golden child, believes that Alex will ruin Brittany’s future. “‘If I ever...EVER find you were out with that boy again, I’ll have no problem convincing your father that you should be sent to boarding school for the rest of your senior year.” (Elkeles, p. 249) Rascism is one of the most prominent reasons that people object to love. If Alex had been Caucasian, Brittany’s mother would not have had any problem with him. Had Othello been the same race as Desdemona, their marriage would not have been objected to. Even more than that, Brabantio would have encouraged the match due to Othello’s important political standing. Race often stands in the way of love, but both stories show that courage can overcome that.
Othello is accused of bewitching Desdemona so that she would fall in love with him
Although obstacles may stand in the way, love can overcome them all with courage. No matter what, there will be someone opposed to a couple’s love and relationship. However, as long as they are strong in their love, they can overcome that. The current Gay Rights Movement and the young adult novel Perfect Chemistry demonstrate how William Shakespeare’s play Othello and its them of love even through hostility are timeless.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Othello Music Connection
The song Once by Rascal Flatts represents the depression Othello felt when he was told that Desdemona was cheating on him. He loves Desdemona greatly, but he believes that she does not truly love him back. As the song says, "I remember you sayin' I was the one, and nothing could change that but you were wrong." In the beginning of the play, Othello is calm and collected whenever his and Desdemona's love is challenged. When Brabantio accuses him of bewitching Desdemona, he doesn't get emotional, but simply tells them to ask Desdemona. When Iago first hints that there may be something between Desdemona and Cassio, Othello brushes the idea away. However, the thing that changes it is Iago and the jealousy that he plants in Othello's mind. It causes Othello to believe that Desdemona is having an affair, and that idea tears him apart. The artist says "I'm so lost, so alone." Othello can not function with the belief that Desdemona doesn't love him.
Rascal Flatts
Othello (thinks he) hears from Cassio about his affair with Desdemona
Rascal Flatts
Othello (thinks he) hears from Cassio about his affair with Desdemona
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Othello - Shakespeare - the end!
"Myself will straight aboard, and to the state
This heavy act with heavy heart relate." (V.ii.370-371)
After I finished Othello, I was disappointed by how the ending didn't really get tied up. Iago never gives a true answer for why he did this. He was jealous of Cassio and Othello was supposedly having an affair with Emilia, but Cassio is fired and it was only a rumor about Emilia and Othello. Iago goes on with his plan, but there isn't ever a solid reason. Also, I wanted to know what happened to Iago. What will happen to him now that everyone knows? What happened to Bianca and Cassio? Most of all though, I wonder if Iago felt any kind of remorse for what he did.
This heavy act with heavy heart relate." (V.ii.370-371)
After I finished Othello, I was disappointed by how the ending didn't really get tied up. Iago never gives a true answer for why he did this. He was jealous of Cassio and Othello was supposedly having an affair with Emilia, but Cassio is fired and it was only a rumor about Emilia and Othello. Iago goes on with his plan, but there isn't ever a solid reason. Also, I wanted to know what happened to Iago. What will happen to him now that everyone knows? What happened to Bianca and Cassio? Most of all though, I wonder if Iago felt any kind of remorse for what he did.
Othello - Shakespeare - questions pg. 1119 #5
"That handkerchief which I so loved and gave thee
Thou gavest to Cassio." (V.ii.48-49)
What themes does the play present?
One of the main themes of this play is jealousy. Iago is jealous of Cassio because Cassio is named Lieutenant. Also, Iago is jealous because there is a rumor that Othello is sleeping with Iago's wife. These are the two reasons for why Iago acts the way he does. Othello is jealous because he believes that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio. Iago creates this jealousy and then plays off of it for the entire plot. Othello kills Desdemona because of jealousy, but later realizes it was wrong. Bianca is jealous because she believes that Cassio is with another woman, which leads to her unknowingly revealing to Othello the Cassio had the handkerchief.
Thou gavest to Cassio." (V.ii.48-49)
What themes does the play present?
One of the main themes of this play is jealousy. Iago is jealous of Cassio because Cassio is named Lieutenant. Also, Iago is jealous because there is a rumor that Othello is sleeping with Iago's wife. These are the two reasons for why Iago acts the way he does. Othello is jealous because he believes that Desdemona is having an affair with Cassio. Iago creates this jealousy and then plays off of it for the entire plot. Othello kills Desdemona because of jealousy, but later realizes it was wrong. Bianca is jealous because she believes that Cassio is with another woman, which leads to her unknowingly revealing to Othello the Cassio had the handkerchief.
Othello - Shakespeare - questions pg. 1461 # 16
"Oh, are you come, Iago? You have done well,
That men must lay their murders on your neck." (V.ii.168-169)
How would the effect of the play have been different if Othello had died before discovering Desdemona's innocence?
If Othello had not discovered Desdemona's innocence, he probably would not have killed himself. The main reason he wanted to kill himself was because of the guilt he felt at killing his wife. When he realized what he had done, he felt so bad that he couldn't continue to live. He killed Desdemona because he loved her so much that he couldn't stand to see her with anyone else. When he found out that she had been true to him, he felt so much regret that his only option was suicide. The effect of the play would have been different because after seeing Othello's regret, the audience feels much more sympathy for him. Without knowing that she is innocent, it is just a sad story. However, the fact that Othello finds out later that he was mistaken makes his death much more powerful.
That men must lay their murders on your neck." (V.ii.168-169)
How would the effect of the play have been different if Othello had died before discovering Desdemona's innocence?
If Othello had not discovered Desdemona's innocence, he probably would not have killed himself. The main reason he wanted to kill himself was because of the guilt he felt at killing his wife. When he realized what he had done, he felt so bad that he couldn't continue to live. He killed Desdemona because he loved her so much that he couldn't stand to see her with anyone else. When he found out that she had been true to him, he felt so much regret that his only option was suicide. The effect of the play would have been different because after seeing Othello's regret, the audience feels much more sympathy for him. Without knowing that she is innocent, it is just a sad story. However, the fact that Othello finds out later that he was mistaken makes his death much more powerful.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Othello - Iago
"I will in Cassio's lodging lose this napkin,
And let him find it. Trifles light as air
Are to the jealous confirmations strong
As proofs of Holy Writ. This may do something.
The Moor already changes with my poison." - Iago (III.iii.322-326)
Iago is extremely cunning. I've been blown away by how well he's manipulated people. He's made it look so easy. He convinced Roderigo not to commit suicide and to sell everything. He got Cassio drunk and got him fired, but then turned around and pretended to try to help him get his job back. At the end of Act III Scene iii, he actually becomes lieutenant. He convinced Othello, who was so sure of his love for Desdemona to want to kill her. Othello quickly jumped to the conclusion that his wife is cheating on him without confronting either one. Iago has everyone convinced that he's an honest, good person when he's really trying to get everyone killed.
And let him find it. Trifles light as air
Are to the jealous confirmations strong
As proofs of Holy Writ. This may do something.
The Moor already changes with my poison." - Iago (III.iii.322-326)
Iago is extremely cunning. I've been blown away by how well he's manipulated people. He's made it look so easy. He convinced Roderigo not to commit suicide and to sell everything. He got Cassio drunk and got him fired, but then turned around and pretended to try to help him get his job back. At the end of Act III Scene iii, he actually becomes lieutenant. He convinced Othello, who was so sure of his love for Desdemona to want to kill her. Othello quickly jumped to the conclusion that his wife is cheating on him without confronting either one. Iago has everyone convinced that he's an honest, good person when he's really trying to get everyone killed.
Othello - Shakespeare - Question 4
"(aside) He takes her by the palm. Ay, well said, whisper! With as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio. Ay, smile upon her, do, I will gyve thee in thine own courtship. You say true, 'Tis so, indeed." Iago (II.i. 164-168)
How is the dramatic suspense created? Contrast the amount of information posessed by the audience as the play proceeds with the knowledge that various individual characters have: what is the effect of such a contrast?
The dramatic suspense is created by the audience's knowledge of Iago's plan in contrast to what other characters believe of him. The audience is aware that he is plotting to get revenge on Othello, but the other characters are unaware of this. Iago is often described as "honest Iago," but this is far from the truth. Othello believes that Iago is a loyal officer. Roderigo is under the impression that Iago is trying to help him win Desdemona because they are friends. Cassio receives council from Iago in which Iago tells Cassio to ask Desdemona to help him get his job back. Cassio thinks that Iago is being helpful, but he is really manipulating Cassio into putting Iago's plan for revenge into action. This contrast creates suspense as the audience waits for the other characters to discover Iago's plan. All if these characters trust Iago, but the audience knows his true intentions.
How is the dramatic suspense created? Contrast the amount of information posessed by the audience as the play proceeds with the knowledge that various individual characters have: what is the effect of such a contrast?
The dramatic suspense is created by the audience's knowledge of Iago's plan in contrast to what other characters believe of him. The audience is aware that he is plotting to get revenge on Othello, but the other characters are unaware of this. Iago is often described as "honest Iago," but this is far from the truth. Othello believes that Iago is a loyal officer. Roderigo is under the impression that Iago is trying to help him win Desdemona because they are friends. Cassio receives council from Iago in which Iago tells Cassio to ask Desdemona to help him get his job back. Cassio thinks that Iago is being helpful, but he is really manipulating Cassio into putting Iago's plan for revenge into action. This contrast creates suspense as the audience waits for the other characters to discover Iago's plan. All if these characters trust Iago, but the audience knows his true intentions.
Othello - Shakespeare - Question 3
"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. I hate the Moor," (I.iii.363-366)
Identify the protagonist(s) and antagonist(s). Are there any foil characters? What dramatic functions are served by the various minor characters?
The protagonist of this story is Othello while the antagonist is Iago. Othello is a hero to the city of Venice and is in love with Desdemona. Iago hates Othello for not promoting him to lieutenant and for the rumor that Othello has slept with Iago's wife. Iago is the antagonist because he is purposely trying to ruin Othello's marriage as revenge.
Emilia and Desdemona are foil characters and this is evident in how they talk to Iago in Act II, Scene i, lines 100-162. Emilia is very quiet and timid while Desdemona is assertive and unintimidated by Iago's rudeness.
The main purpose of the minor characters is so that Iago can manipulate them to carry out his plan for getting revenge on Othello. Roderigo is used to alert Barbantio of Othello and Desdemona's marriage. Iago gets Cassio drunk so that Roderigo will get in a fight with him and he will lose his job. The minor characters, without Iago, would not make much of a difference in the lives of Othello and Desdemona.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)