"So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past." (pg. 182)
I felt like this quote was important for some reason (and not just because it is the last sentence of the book). I think it's saying that our lives really can never escape the past. The past is what defines us, and we will keep drifting back without moving forward. Nick is telling the reader his story and how his past has affected him. Each part of this story has impacted him in some significant way. Otherwise, he would not have told the reader any of it. Overall, I was not a big fan of the book. Some parts confused me; other parts were boring. It was a fairly easy read though and there was some action at least going on in some parts of the book.
P.S. I hope this is my last blog ever.
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Great Gatsby - True Love or Just a Typical Triangle?
"He looked... as if he had 'killed a man.' For a moment the set of his face could be described in just that fantastic way.... Her frightened eyes told that whatever intentions, whatever courage she had had, were definitely gone." (pg. 135)
Throughout this book, Daisy and Gatsby have had a little somethin' somethin' going on. This is weird because they were planning to get married after Gatsby got back from the war, but Daisy married Tom instead. In Chapter 7, Daisy and Gatsby start to get a little more obvious with showing affection towards each other. Tom, being Daisy's wife, wants to end this right away. What I don't understand is why he would let them ride in the car together when they all took their trip. Was it a test to see if they would do anything? Anyways, Tom and Gatsby get into an argument and Daisy falls for Tom again. Who does Daisy really love? Sounds like a typical love triangle to me.
Throughout this book, Daisy and Gatsby have had a little somethin' somethin' going on. This is weird because they were planning to get married after Gatsby got back from the war, but Daisy married Tom instead. In Chapter 7, Daisy and Gatsby start to get a little more obvious with showing affection towards each other. Tom, being Daisy's wife, wants to end this right away. What I don't understand is why he would let them ride in the car together when they all took their trip. Was it a test to see if they would do anything? Anyways, Tom and Gatsby get into an argument and Daisy falls for Tom again. Who does Daisy really love? Sounds like a typical love triangle to me.
The Great Gatsby - Theme of Death
"It was after we started with Gatsby toward the house that the gardener saw Wilson's body a little way off in the grass, and the holocaust was complete." (pg. 163)
Chapter 8 is the second chapter in a row that has involved death. First, Myrtle was killed by being ran over by Daisy and Tom. Now, in this chapter, Wilson goes to Gatsby's house and shoots him before he even knows what is happening. I believe that these deaths are absurd. Why would someone drive a car into Myrtle? Also, why would Wilson want revenge so bad?
I want to know why it even crosses the minds of people in today's world to do such a thing. It is completely unacceptable to walk around and shoot people, but all the time you can turn on the news and some sort of shooting is being talked about. Society really needs a reality check but I don't believe that it is going to change anytime soon. All we can do is try to be the better people and show others how to act.
Chapter 8 is the second chapter in a row that has involved death. First, Myrtle was killed by being ran over by Daisy and Tom. Now, in this chapter, Wilson goes to Gatsby's house and shoots him before he even knows what is happening. I believe that these deaths are absurd. Why would someone drive a car into Myrtle? Also, why would Wilson want revenge so bad?
I want to know why it even crosses the minds of people in today's world to do such a thing. It is completely unacceptable to walk around and shoot people, but all the time you can turn on the news and some sort of shooting is being talked about. Society really needs a reality check but I don't believe that it is going to change anytime soon. All we can do is try to be the better people and show others how to act.
The Great Gatsby - Dramatic Irony
"'Then he killed her,' said Wilson. His mouth dropped open suddenly. 'Who did?' 'I have a way of finding out.'" (pg. 159)
I believe at this point in the book, Wilson associates the murderer and the person having an affair with his wife to be the same person. The reader knows that it is not who Wilson thinks it is. In fact, it is actually Daisy who drove the car and not Gatsby. Wilson never finds out the truth though, and things end up bad for Gatsby. Wilson finds Gatsby and shoots and kills him as soon as he sees him. His whole goal was to get revenge on who he thought killed his wife. Unfortunately, Wilson was not correct in his assumptions, and Gatsby had to pay the price. Although I can somewhat see where Wilson was coming from, I believe that he had the wrong reasons for just going out and killing Gatsby. He should have had some evidence to fully accuse Gatsby of murdering Myrtle before going out and killing him.
I believe at this point in the book, Wilson associates the murderer and the person having an affair with his wife to be the same person. The reader knows that it is not who Wilson thinks it is. In fact, it is actually Daisy who drove the car and not Gatsby. Wilson never finds out the truth though, and things end up bad for Gatsby. Wilson finds Gatsby and shoots and kills him as soon as he sees him. His whole goal was to get revenge on who he thought killed his wife. Unfortunately, Wilson was not correct in his assumptions, and Gatsby had to pay the price. Although I can somewhat see where Wilson was coming from, I believe that he had the wrong reasons for just going out and killing Gatsby. He should have had some evidence to fully accuse Gatsby of murdering Myrtle before going out and killing him.
The Great Gatsby - Flashback
"Now I want to go back a little and tell what happened at the garage after we left there the night before." (pg. 156)
As you can tell by the clever title of my blog, I noticed a flashback toward the end of Chapter 8. For this excerpt of the book, Nick is talking directly to the reader. He says that he is going to go back and tell the reader exactly what happened after Myrtle was killed. Nick explains that Michaelis told him that Wilson confronted Myrtle about her lover. Wilson is convinced that whoever was driving the car was seeking revenge and must have been her lover. I thought this was a strange theory for Wilson to come up with. If someone killed my wife, I would not think of it to be her partner whom she is cheating on me with. Everyone has their own way of thinking, I guess.
As you can tell by the clever title of my blog, I noticed a flashback toward the end of Chapter 8. For this excerpt of the book, Nick is talking directly to the reader. He says that he is going to go back and tell the reader exactly what happened after Myrtle was killed. Nick explains that Michaelis told him that Wilson confronted Myrtle about her lover. Wilson is convinced that whoever was driving the car was seeking revenge and must have been her lover. I thought this was a strange theory for Wilson to come up with. If someone killed my wife, I would not think of it to be her partner whom she is cheating on me with. Everyone has their own way of thinking, I guess.
Monday, April 23, 2012
The Great Gatsby - The Book So Far...
"It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey." (pg. 48)
When I was reading, this particular quote stuck out to me for some reason so I decided to put it in my blog.
First off, I dislike that the novel has long chapters. I would prefer a book with many short chapters opposed to a book with few lengthy chapters. I use chapters as stopping places, but it's hard to do that with a book with long chapters. I also dislike how much introduction there was to start the novel. It didn't keep my attention, and it was hard for me to get into the book.
On to a more positive note, I think that the plot is somewhat enjoyable so far. I also like how the author decided to have one of the characters be the narrator. I believe that it makes the story more personal. Lastly, I like how easy to read it is.
When I was reading, this particular quote stuck out to me for some reason so I decided to put it in my blog.
First off, I dislike that the novel has long chapters. I would prefer a book with many short chapters opposed to a book with few lengthy chapters. I use chapters as stopping places, but it's hard to do that with a book with long chapters. I also dislike how much introduction there was to start the novel. It didn't keep my attention, and it was hard for me to get into the book.
On to a more positive note, I think that the plot is somewhat enjoyable so far. I also like how the author decided to have one of the characters be the narrator. I believe that it makes the story more personal. Lastly, I like how easy to read it is.
The Great Gatsby - Romance
"They were sitting at either end of the couch, looking at each other as if some question had been asked, or was in the air, and every vestige of embarrassment was gone." (pg. 90)
Well, I saw it coming. Romance is introduced with the relationship between Daisy and Gatsby. They are reintroduced to each other after close to five years, and although it was awkward at first, everything seems to be going great now. They were in a relationship before Gatsby went off to war, but Daisy married before he came back. I don't understand why Daisy would do this if they were truly in love. Maybe she was lonely. I think that this relationship will be a major part of the plot. I haven't read past chapter five, but I have a feeling that the rest of the book might be focused on Daisy and Gatsby's relationship.
Well, I saw it coming. Romance is introduced with the relationship between Daisy and Gatsby. They are reintroduced to each other after close to five years, and although it was awkward at first, everything seems to be going great now. They were in a relationship before Gatsby went off to war, but Daisy married before he came back. I don't understand why Daisy would do this if they were truly in love. Maybe she was lonely. I think that this relationship will be a major part of the plot. I haven't read past chapter five, but I have a feeling that the rest of the book might be focused on Daisy and Gatsby's relationship.
The Great Gatsby - Setting
"There was music from my neighbor's house throughout the summer nights. In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars." (pg. 39)
Setting and location play a huge role in this book. Nick is next door to Jay Gatsby, the character whose name is in the title. By being Gatsby's neighbor, Nick is allowed the opportunity to become his friend as he starts going to the parties at his house. If they were not next door neighbors, they may have never met, and there would be no story. Also, the novel's background contributes to the theme. The novel was written in 1925 in the U.S. This would have been the time of prohibition and somewhat a time of peace. I'm not sure whether this had any impact on the book whatsoever, but we will see.
Setting and location play a huge role in this book. Nick is next door to Jay Gatsby, the character whose name is in the title. By being Gatsby's neighbor, Nick is allowed the opportunity to become his friend as he starts going to the parties at his house. If they were not next door neighbors, they may have never met, and there would be no story. Also, the novel's background contributes to the theme. The novel was written in 1925 in the U.S. This would have been the time of prohibition and somewhat a time of peace. I'm not sure whether this had any impact on the book whatsoever, but we will see.
The Great Gatsby - Characterization
"The sister, Catherine, was a slender, worldly girl of about thirty, with a solid, sticky bob of red hair, and a complexion powdered milky white." (pg. 30)
This quote is an example of direct characterization. The author designed the characterization of this character, as well as several others in chapter two, to be directly told to the reader. Direct characterization d the reader from making assumptions because the author plainly tells the reader what the character is like. Personally, I like direct characterization more than indirect characterization because the reader knows it is a fact rather than playing off of other characters' thoughts. Specifically in this quote, Catherine's looks are described. I imagine her being a skinny ginger around the age of thirty. I wish some of her personal qualities were described though. In this chapter, Mr. McKee and Myrtle Wilson were also described with direct characterization.
This quote is an example of direct characterization. The author designed the characterization of this character, as well as several others in chapter two, to be directly told to the reader. Direct characterization d the reader from making assumptions because the author plainly tells the reader what the character is like. Personally, I like direct characterization more than indirect characterization because the reader knows it is a fact rather than playing off of other characters' thoughts. Specifically in this quote, Catherine's looks are described. I imagine her being a skinny ginger around the age of thirty. I wish some of her personal qualities were described though. In this chapter, Mr. McKee and Myrtle Wilson were also described with direct characterization.
The Great Gatsby - Point of View
"I believe that on the first night I went to Gatsby's house I was one of the few guests who had actually been invited." (pg. 41)
From this quote, the reader can definitely tell that the point of view is first person. The narrator and main character is called Nick. In this novel, it seems as though he is telling a story. I don't know who he is telling it to or the reason for telling this story, but maybe it will be revealed later. I think this point of view is used as a way for the reader to get an understanding of characters and what Nick thinks of them. I also think that this point of view puts a more personal feel on the book and allows the audience to relate to Nick. The title of the book also stuck out as strange to me. The character of Gatsby is not even mentioned until chapter three. Nick is the character who lives right next to Gatsby and initially knows nothing about him. They are starting to become better neighbors and friends so maybe the book is called what it is to show how Gatsby is a role model for Nick.
From this quote, the reader can definitely tell that the point of view is first person. The narrator and main character is called Nick. In this novel, it seems as though he is telling a story. I don't know who he is telling it to or the reason for telling this story, but maybe it will be revealed later. I think this point of view is used as a way for the reader to get an understanding of characters and what Nick thinks of them. I also think that this point of view puts a more personal feel on the book and allows the audience to relate to Nick. The title of the book also stuck out as strange to me. The character of Gatsby is not even mentioned until chapter three. Nick is the character who lives right next to Gatsby and initially knows nothing about him. They are starting to become better neighbors and friends so maybe the book is called what it is to show how Gatsby is a role model for Nick.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Frankenstein - Overall Thoughts
"All that I should express would be inadequate and feeble. My tears flow; my mind is overshadowed by a cloud of disappointment." (pg. 162)
Overall, I thought the book was decent. I liked the book, especially towards the end, kept me interested. I definitely thought that Victor was going to kill Frankenstein, and the book would end. Obviously, Victor dies before he could kill him, but the creature is actually disappointed and depressed. One aspect of the book that I grew to not like was the frame stories. I thought I enjoyed them, but as the story went on, I just got confused. If it was only told from one point of view, then much information would be missing. If it were narrated by Victor, the important scene after his death would be missing. A narrator could have been used, but it would have taken away from the meaning because no character's input would be there.
Overall, I thought the book was decent. I liked the book, especially towards the end, kept me interested. I definitely thought that Victor was going to kill Frankenstein, and the book would end. Obviously, Victor dies before he could kill him, but the creature is actually disappointed and depressed. One aspect of the book that I grew to not like was the frame stories. I thought I enjoyed them, but as the story went on, I just got confused. If it was only told from one point of view, then much information would be missing. If it were narrated by Victor, the important scene after his death would be missing. A narrator could have been used, but it would have taken away from the meaning because no character's input would be there.
Frankenstein - Creature Returns!
"What does it avail that I now ask thee to pardon me? I, who irretrievably destroyed thee by destroying all thou lovedst." (pg. 163)
Now is when the monster chooses to feel bad. After his creator finally dies, the creature wants forgiveness. He starts to feel bad because he thinks that he cause Victor's death by killing all of his loved ones. Like I said in the last blog, the creature had an impulse of which he could not disobey. He didn't want to kill Elizabeth or William, but the evilness caused him to do so. The creature begs for forgiveness, but Victor is unable to reply because he is dead. Walton blames the monster for Victor's death and told him that if they would have made up sooner, Victor would not be dead. Since the creature no longer has to run from Frankenstein, he decides that he will go to the North Pole and burn himself. He no longer will have to suffer agony and will be relieved from his misery.
Now is when the monster chooses to feel bad. After his creator finally dies, the creature wants forgiveness. He starts to feel bad because he thinks that he cause Victor's death by killing all of his loved ones. Like I said in the last blog, the creature had an impulse of which he could not disobey. He didn't want to kill Elizabeth or William, but the evilness caused him to do so. The creature begs for forgiveness, but Victor is unable to reply because he is dead. Walton blames the monster for Victor's death and told him that if they would have made up sooner, Victor would not be dead. Since the creature no longer has to run from Frankenstein, he decides that he will go to the North Pole and burn himself. He no longer will have to suffer agony and will be relieved from his misery.
Frankenstein - Creature's Explanation
"I was the slave, not the master, of an impulse, which I detested, yet could not disobey." (pg. 164)
At this point, the creature is being questioned as to why he did such horrible things. The creature basically says that it's his nature. It's not his fault that the devil or some evil force was persuading him to act a certain way. He felt as though he had no other choice than evil. This is similar to the temptations that humans face everyday. They can either choose to do good and what pleases God or do bad things and follow the devil. He also said that he really just wanted sympathy. The monster was never given sympathy except when he was explaining himself to others.
At this point, the creature is being questioned as to why he did such horrible things. The creature basically says that it's his nature. It's not his fault that the devil or some evil force was persuading him to act a certain way. He felt as though he had no other choice than evil. This is similar to the temptations that humans face everyday. They can either choose to do good and what pleases God or do bad things and follow the devil. He also said that he really just wanted sympathy. The monster was never given sympathy except when he was explaining himself to others.
Frankenstein - Blame
"The task of destruction was mine, but I have failed." (pg. 162)
Who deserves the blame for all that has happened? The answer to whether Victor blames himself is complicated. He knows he's responsible for the creation, which leads him to chasing it. Frankenstein knew that he failed the creature in many ways but especially when he was first created. He left the creature to care for himself and teach himself how to do everything. In some aspect, he blames himself right then. Then, he says that he knew he was right in not creating a second creature for the monster to be mates with. In this regard, he somewhat shifts the blame and guilt to others because he did the right thing. He could blame the monster for all the chaos he has caused, but by creating the monster, he is at fault again.
Who deserves the blame for all that has happened? The answer to whether Victor blames himself is complicated. He knows he's responsible for the creation, which leads him to chasing it. Frankenstein knew that he failed the creature in many ways but especially when he was first created. He left the creature to care for himself and teach himself how to do everything. In some aspect, he blames himself right then. Then, he says that he knew he was right in not creating a second creature for the monster to be mates with. In this regard, he somewhat shifts the blame and guilt to others because he did the right thing. He could blame the monster for all the chaos he has caused, but by creating the monster, he is at fault again.
Frankenstein - Duty
"In a fit of enthusiastic madness I created a rational creature, and was bound towards him, to assure, as far as was in my power, his happiness and well-being. This was my duty; but there was another still paramount to that." (pg. 161)
Throughout this novel, Frankenstein has struggled with his amount of responsibility that he has for the monster. In the quote, he claims that he has a duty to end this creature's life. As soon as life was given to it, Frankenstein realized he had made a huge mistake. He has a duty to take care of this creature he created, but ironically, he doesn't care for it. After the creature starts killing others, Victor now has the duty to kill it before it hurts more people. When he starts to die, Victor tries to convince Walton to continue his duty of killing the monster if he ever sees him again. Walton agrees, but when the time comes, he refuses to do it. Right after Victor dies, the monster shows up but Walton doesn't kill him. Instead, he just listens to what he has to say.
Throughout this novel, Frankenstein has struggled with his amount of responsibility that he has for the monster. In the quote, he claims that he has a duty to end this creature's life. As soon as life was given to it, Frankenstein realized he had made a huge mistake. He has a duty to take care of this creature he created, but ironically, he doesn't care for it. After the creature starts killing others, Victor now has the duty to kill it before it hurts more people. When he starts to die, Victor tries to convince Walton to continue his duty of killing the monster if he ever sees him again. Walton agrees, but when the time comes, he refuses to do it. Right after Victor dies, the monster shows up but Walton doesn't kill him. Instead, he just listens to what he has to say.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Frankenstein - Frame Story
"It was dark when I awoke; I felt cold also, and half frightened, as it were, instinctively, finding myself so desolate." (pg. 71)
This novel, I think, is a retelling of something that has happened to another individual. In some parts of the book, there are stories within the main story. One specific point in the novel where this happens is when the monster is telling his story to Victor. Victor is actually the narrator, but the monster takes over a couple chapters by telling Victor, as well as the audience, what he has been up to. Although I can see why others may not like them, I, personally, enjoy frame stories. They give the reader a break from the main topic to point your attention to something less important. Frame stories are like the dreaming in Inception, but this time it is in a book. Stories within stories may create some confusion at first but can add immensely to the work as a whole.
This novel, I think, is a retelling of something that has happened to another individual. In some parts of the book, there are stories within the main story. One specific point in the novel where this happens is when the monster is telling his story to Victor. Victor is actually the narrator, but the monster takes over a couple chapters by telling Victor, as well as the audience, what he has been up to. Although I can see why others may not like them, I, personally, enjoy frame stories. They give the reader a break from the main topic to point your attention to something less important. Frame stories are like the dreaming in Inception, but this time it is in a book. Stories within stories may create some confusion at first but can add immensely to the work as a whole.
Frankenstein - Are You Smarter Than a Monster?
"I was a poor, helpless wretch; I knew, and could distinguish, nothing." (pg. 71)
I want to know how smart the monster that Victor created really is. He has to have some higher level of intelligence if he is able to communicate and interact with his creator. When he was first created, the creature somewhat acted like a baby with its arms outstretched towards its creator and mumbling gibberish. Now, the reader can see that he has learning capabilities as he learned how to talk and act like humans by watching a family go about their life. I never knew that the monster became smarter. I thought he remained like a baby. Also, I am really impressed by how much the monster picked up from watching the family of three live their life. In just a time period of two years, he was able to pick up what would take normal humans around four years or longer to pick up. If he is able to do all of this, and he knows who Victor's friends are, is he capable of being a possible suspect for the murder of William?
I want to know how smart the monster that Victor created really is. He has to have some higher level of intelligence if he is able to communicate and interact with his creator. When he was first created, the creature somewhat acted like a baby with its arms outstretched towards its creator and mumbling gibberish. Now, the reader can see that he has learning capabilities as he learned how to talk and act like humans by watching a family go about their life. I never knew that the monster became smarter. I thought he remained like a baby. Also, I am really impressed by how much the monster picked up from watching the family of three live their life. In just a time period of two years, he was able to pick up what would take normal humans around four years or longer to pick up. If he is able to do all of this, and he knows who Victor's friends are, is he capable of being a possible suspect for the murder of William?
Frankenstein - Theme of Guilt
"Yet I ask you not to spare me: listen to me; and then, if you can, and if you will, destroy the work of your hands." (pg. 69)
This far in the novel, we have seen this theme of guilt being placed on Victor multiple times. The quoted section comes from the time where the monster approaches Victor on top of the mountain. He is placing the blame on Victor of creating him and how he has to face the decision of destroying the monster. Victor is forced to feel guilt for creating the monster. He also feels guilty when he first creates the monster as he has no idea of its capabilities. I'm sure he must of felt guilt when the monster was telling Victor of his upbringing too. Victor left him to fend for himself and learn everything by himself. The creature had to learn the language in order to even attempt to interact with normal human beings.
This far in the novel, we have seen this theme of guilt being placed on Victor multiple times. The quoted section comes from the time where the monster approaches Victor on top of the mountain. He is placing the blame on Victor of creating him and how he has to face the decision of destroying the monster. Victor is forced to feel guilt for creating the monster. He also feels guilty when he first creates the monster as he has no idea of its capabilities. I'm sure he must of felt guilt when the monster was telling Victor of his upbringing too. Victor left him to fend for himself and learn everything by himself. The creature had to learn the language in order to even attempt to interact with normal human beings.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Frankenstein - Who's guilty?
"I did confess; but I confessed a lie. I confessed, that I might obtain absolution; but now that falsehood lies heavier at my heart than all my other sins." (pg. 58)
At this point in Chapter 8, Justine has just admitted to killing William, but why would she do that if she didn't kill him? A locket was found in her pocket that was last seen in William's possession, but she has no idea how it got there. The evidence points towards Justine and how she killed William. Yet, Victor still believes that the monster which he created was of fault. There is no evidence to prove the creature's guilt, but he did happen to be at the murder spot. Through this mess, Justine remains calm, which normally wouldn't be the case if the person being charged knew that they were guilty. What I don't understand is why Justine is convicted and killed if she bluntly told them that she was lying in her confession. Also, why would she want to be convicted? Did Justine think that they would go easy on her and let her go? I hope these answers come soon as we figure out what the monster has been up to.
At this point in Chapter 8, Justine has just admitted to killing William, but why would she do that if she didn't kill him? A locket was found in her pocket that was last seen in William's possession, but she has no idea how it got there. The evidence points towards Justine and how she killed William. Yet, Victor still believes that the monster which he created was of fault. There is no evidence to prove the creature's guilt, but he did happen to be at the murder spot. Through this mess, Justine remains calm, which normally wouldn't be the case if the person being charged knew that they were guilty. What I don't understand is why Justine is convicted and killed if she bluntly told them that she was lying in her confession. Also, why would she want to be convicted? Did Justine think that they would go easy on her and let her go? I hope these answers come soon as we figure out what the monster has been up to.
Frankenstein - Theme of Alienation
"Solitude was my only consolation - deep, dark, deathlike solitude." (pg. 61)
Through the first twelve chapters, we have seen a common theme of alienation. The monster is alienated mostly because of his appearance. He scares people out of their house and even an entire town. The monster is extremely disappointed and confused as to why no one wants to be with him. He is then forced to live by himself, but he finds a family to live nearby. Finally, the monster grows tired of his loneliness and decides to try to learn the people's language in order to one day communicate with them. The monster catches on and hatches a plan to make the family enjoy his presence. He is soon discouraged though as he learns what he actually looks like. I am wondering how long he will remain alienated from people in society or if he will be accepted by the family. Hopefully, he will be accepted because of all the help he has provided them with.
Through the first twelve chapters, we have seen a common theme of alienation. The monster is alienated mostly because of his appearance. He scares people out of their house and even an entire town. The monster is extremely disappointed and confused as to why no one wants to be with him. He is then forced to live by himself, but he finds a family to live nearby. Finally, the monster grows tired of his loneliness and decides to try to learn the people's language in order to one day communicate with them. The monster catches on and hatches a plan to make the family enjoy his presence. He is soon discouraged though as he learns what he actually looks like. I am wondering how long he will remain alienated from people in society or if he will be accepted by the family. Hopefully, he will be accepted because of all the help he has provided them with.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Death of a Salesman - 3
"After all the highways, and the trains, and the appointments, and the years, you end up worth more dead than alive." (II, pg. 1603)
I thought this quote was interesting because it demonstrates how invaluable Willy thinks life is. He believes that when he dies, he will be worth more to his family because of the money they will receive. This could have been a big factor into Willy's suicide. He just wanted to make his family happy. Some of his flaws are that he is too proud, wants to be well-liked, and he wants the American dream. He is willing to do anything to try to get this American dream. Society's flaws, as well as his own, contribute to his downfall. Society demands so much of him, but he couldn't do it and didn't accomplish his dreams.
I thought this quote was interesting because it demonstrates how invaluable Willy thinks life is. He believes that when he dies, he will be worth more to his family because of the money they will receive. This could have been a big factor into Willy's suicide. He just wanted to make his family happy. Some of his flaws are that he is too proud, wants to be well-liked, and he wants the American dream. He is willing to do anything to try to get this American dream. Society's flaws, as well as his own, contribute to his downfall. Society demands so much of him, but he couldn't do it and didn't accomplish his dreams.
Death of a Salesman - 2
"Don't say those things to him! Enough to be happy right here, right now." (II, pg. 1594)
Willy is most likely the protagonist in this play because the audience sees all the action in his perspective. The audience sees the daydreams, flashbacks, and Willy talking to himself because his character allows them to see that. In the daydreams, Willy acted as if Ben, his dead brother, was there and allowed Ben to control what he what going to do. The antagonistic force in this case would be his career because it is trying to take him away from his family. Jobs try to get him to move away from his family, but Linda refuses for him to accept these jobs. If Biff is the protagonist, then the antagonist is not the same. The antagonistic force would then be his lack of success in his life. When he failed the math class, that forced him to be ineligible for graduation and ruined his life's goals.
Willy is most likely the protagonist in this play because the audience sees all the action in his perspective. The audience sees the daydreams, flashbacks, and Willy talking to himself because his character allows them to see that. In the daydreams, Willy acted as if Ben, his dead brother, was there and allowed Ben to control what he what going to do. The antagonistic force in this case would be his career because it is trying to take him away from his family. Jobs try to get him to move away from his family, but Linda refuses for him to accept these jobs. If Biff is the protagonist, then the antagonist is not the same. The antagonistic force would then be his lack of success in his life. When he failed the math class, that forced him to be ineligible for graduation and ruined his life's goals.
Death of a Salesman - 1
"First time in about thirty-five years we were just about free and clear." (II, pg. 1629)
This quote shows how many problems that this family has had through in the past number of years. They were never very content with the relationships within the family until Biff told Willy that he loved him. This action cleared up all the negative in their relationships and made the family "free and clear" of problems.
In this play, Willy can be considered the tragic hero as he has admirable characteristics and noble motivations. Some of his admirable characteristics are that he is hard-working and that he has good intentions. These qualities help others to see as such a hero. He is also noble because he commits suicide in order to help his family. By dying, he gives his family the money they need to survive and possibly enough money for Biff and Happy to start the business that they dreamed of making. After he finds out that Biff loved him, Willy is willing to sacrifice his life for his family.
This quote shows how many problems that this family has had through in the past number of years. They were never very content with the relationships within the family until Biff told Willy that he loved him. This action cleared up all the negative in their relationships and made the family "free and clear" of problems.
In this play, Willy can be considered the tragic hero as he has admirable characteristics and noble motivations. Some of his admirable characteristics are that he is hard-working and that he has good intentions. These qualities help others to see as such a hero. He is also noble because he commits suicide in order to help his family. By dying, he gives his family the money they need to survive and possibly enough money for Biff and Happy to start the business that they dreamed of making. After he finds out that Biff loved him, Willy is willing to sacrifice his life for his family.
Monday, February 27, 2012
The Glass Menagerie - 3
"I didn't go to the moon, I went much further - for time is the longest distance between two places."
First of all, I want to elaborate on this quote because I like the wording. This quote had me think about how quickly time passes us by without us even realizing it. It also made me realize that as time goes on, people and things change, and there is nothing we can do about it.
I thought this play was interesting in that Tennessee Williams put so much stage direction in it. Shakespeare had very little stage direction and allowed the play director to have a little freedom. In this play, hardly ever is there a place where a little creativity can be shown. The lighting, music, characterization, and setting are all pretty descriptive. I also read somewhere that Williams put a glimpse of himself in the play in the character of Tom. They both have similar backgrounds, and Williams wanted to include a character like himself. I thought this was really cool and creative for him to do this.
First of all, I want to elaborate on this quote because I like the wording. This quote had me think about how quickly time passes us by without us even realizing it. It also made me realize that as time goes on, people and things change, and there is nothing we can do about it.
I thought this play was interesting in that Tennessee Williams put so much stage direction in it. Shakespeare had very little stage direction and allowed the play director to have a little freedom. In this play, hardly ever is there a place where a little creativity can be shown. The lighting, music, characterization, and setting are all pretty descriptive. I also read somewhere that Williams put a glimpse of himself in the play in the character of Tom. They both have similar backgrounds, and Williams wanted to include a character like himself. I thought this was really cool and creative for him to do this.
The Glass Menagerie - 2 - Characters
"[Amanda]'s characterization must be carefully created, not copied from type. She is not paranoiac, but her life is paranoia" (Characters, pg. 1234).
Tom is a character that has a double role in the play. He is the narrator but also one who acts out what he describes to the audience. In the role of the narrator, he tries to be focused and informative. In his role as a character, he likes to be laid back and not as strict and proper. I would say that Laura is the protagonist in the play as she is the only character that is compassionate and generous towards others. I don't remember a time where she was the mean character in the play. The antagonists in her way are Amanda and Tom. Amanda is Laura's mother who is in constant control of what Laura does. Tom is Laura's brother who Jim is a minor character who kind of just moves the play along with his interactions with the main characters. Tom's character continues the action of the play without creating much of a disturbance.
The Glass Menagerie - 1
Throughout the play, nonrealistic qualities are displayed. In the first scene, the stage is dimly lighted to make it seem like a dream because "the scene is a memory" (stage direction for scene 1, pg. 1235). Another nonrealistic convention demonstrated is a character talking to the audience. Tom begins the play by giving a little background information to the audience, but people don't talk to those who they believe might be watching in real life. The Glass Menagerie has a narrator which is also a nonrealistic convention. Another nonrealistic aspect is that most of the scenes fade out with music being played. The play is probably on the more surrealistic side of the spectrum because of some of these nonrealistic qualities like talking to the audience. I haven't noticed any breaks from the norm yet except the fact that some of the scenes do not have directions to fade the scene out and play music. I don't know what the significance is, but hopefully I will find out.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
As You Like It - 3
The amount of time covered in this play cannot be very long. There are not many occasions where the time or days are mentioned so they sort of run together. There are some events in the beginning that occur offstage, but most of the play's events occur onstage. One event that is spoken of which the audience just has to take the character's words for it is the scene in the forest where Oliver is sleeping under the tree. "A green gilded snake had wreathed itself, who with her head nimble in threats approached the opening of his mouth.... A lioness, with udders all drawn dry, lay couching, head on ground, with catlike watch, when that the sleeping man should stir" (IV.iii.pg 64). Oliver must explain the details of this event as it did not happen onstage. I do not believe that there is a meaning in which actions are dramatized and which are reported. I thought the play's structure was pretty tight as the events happened right after another with no real breaks besides scene changes. Overall, I thought the play was O.K. I deemed it sort of unreal because as soon as Rosalind and Orlando saw each other, they were in love. This sort of thing happens many times in Shakespeare's plays so I was not really surprised.
As You Like It - Theme
This particular play has many themes. One of them is that love is a many splintered thing. This theme is portrayed in relationships including Phoebe and Ganymede, Phoebe and Sylvius, Rosalind and Orlando, and Touchstone and William and Audrey. Phoebe falls in love with Ganymede, who is really Rosalind dressed as a guy. During this scene, Rosalind/Ganymede pleads "I pray you, don not fall in love with me, for I am falser than vows made in wine" (III.v.pg 52). Right after, Sylvius tries to convince Phoebe that he should not be in love with Ganymede but with him instead. Sylvius says, "Whatever sorrow is, relief would be: If you do sorrow at my grief in love, by giving love your sorrow and my grief were both extermined" (III.v.pg 53). Touchstone, Audrey, and William are involved in a love triangle. Eventually, Touchstone tells William to leave Audrey alone by saying, "I will deal in poison with thee, or in bastinado, or in steel" (V.i.pg 68). Obviously, the play focuses around the relationship between Rosalind and Orlando, and Rosalind even dresses as a guy to help guide Orlando to say and do the right things when he sees her.
As You Like It - Comedy
"As You Like It" is a comedy because no one dies at the end of the play like in Othello. Instead, there is a happy ending, and good rules over evil. It is primarily romantic because most of the main characters are in love or want to get married by the end of the play. The audience does not really experience any drama as they just watch it take place on stage. There are not very many moments, if any, that make the audience feel any sort of emotion in this particular play. One instance in the play where there is no emotion displayed, just a retelling of the story, is in Act I, scene i. On page three, Charles says, "the old duke banished by his brother the old duke, and three of four loving lords" (I.i.pg 3) Shakespeare could have portrayed this banishment taking place, and the audience could have had sympathy for Duke Senior. Instead, he has a character explain the event to make the audience feel less emotion. I like to relate to the characters I read about and feel their emotions, but Shakespeare did not allow me to do that in this play.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Reflective Essay
Corruption is a reoccurring
problem that societies have been struggling with for hundreds of years. Understanding the multiple layers of
corruption issues is critical to developing a plan to counteract its
influence. Analyzing its effects in
classical literature can provide insight to identifying the types of behavior
that lead to destruction. As in other
works of timeless literature, one of the central themes in Othello is that of
corruption where an individual abandons their obligation and duty and makes
choices that are immoral.
This video shows how the White Witch has control over Edmund, and his desire to gain control is what fuels his corruption.
Iago telling Othello that his wife is cheating on him.
Works Cited
In
Othello, Iago manipulates multiple
characters for his own self-benefit. In
the beginning, Iago starts by deceiving Roderigo by telling him that he will
help him get the love of his life for money.
In no way was Iago trying to help Roderigo; he was just taking the money
(II, iii.328-332). He then moves on to
beguiling Othello into believing that his wife was cheating on him in order to
get on his good side (III.iii.198-201). As
the play advances, Iago continues to weave a web of lies until he eventually he
is caught. The progression of deceit
which begins with minor flaws and moves toward greater involvement is not only
seen in Othello but in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe as well. Edmund deliberates which side is the good
side and which is the evil. He ends up
convincing himself that the witch is right and cannot turn back. It all started with a little piece of Turkish
delight with which the witch tempted him but snowballed into corruption of his
self-identity. This succession of
corruption is not unique to literature but found in historical events as well
as demonstrated in the life of Adolf Hitler.
He started off with a weak self image and paranoia and evolved into the epitome
of large scale misuse of power. Some
considered Hilter to be opportunistic in his early rise to power; however, with
more power came more inflexibility and unfounded hatred. Clearly, this led to countless
well-documented events of destruction and madness particularly toward the Jewish
people (Wistrich).
It
is difficult to distinguish corruption without considering the influence that
it has in leadership. Abuse of power was
present in Othello when Iago tries to make Cassio fight Roderigo in an attempt
to kick Cassio out of office. When he is
explaining his reasoning, Iago says, “For even out of that will I cause these
of Cyprus to mutiny, whose qualification shall come into no true taste again but
by the displanting of Cassio” (II.i.255-257). His main motive was to get Cassio out of
office so that would be the person to take his spot. In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Edmund
believes and resents that he is powerless and makes him susceptible the White
Witch’s offer to make him the prince. He
was all about the fame and glory of a leadership role that he missed what he
truly valued in life. Convinced that he
was destined to control the world, Hitler had a sole motive of ultimate
power. In all three of these examples it
was the quest for authority, position in power, and control that fueled the
demolition of their personal character.
In order for progression in a society to continue, it is critical for
those put in power to have integrity, competence, concerned for society as a
whole.
This video illustrates Hitler plotting to gain power and control through deception.
This video shows how the White Witch has control over Edmund, and his desire to gain control is what fuels his corruption.
Iago telling Othello that his wife is cheating on him.
Works Cited
Heath, Ian.
"Corruption of Power." Discover Your Mind. 2003. Web. 12 Feb. 2012.
<http://discover-your-mind.co.uk/3-corruption.htm>.
Perrine,
Lawrence, "Othello." Perrine's Literature: Structure, Sound, and
Sense. Fort Worth.
Harcourt
College. 2002. 1361-462. Print
The Lion, The
Witch, and The Wardrobe. Dir. Andrew Adamson. Perf. Tilda Swinton, Georgie
Henley
and William Moseley. Walt Disney Pictures, 2005. Film.
"The Lion,
the Witch and the Wardrobe." Thriving Family. Focus in the Family, 2011.
Web. 13
Feb.
2012. <http://www.thrivingfamily.com/Family/Media/book-reviews/l/lion-the-
witch-and-the-wardrobe.aspx>.
Wistrich, Robert
S. "Adolf Hitler: Biography." Jewish Virtual Library - Homepage.
Who's Who
in
Nazi Germany, 1997. Web. 12 Feb. 2012.
<http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Holocaust/hitler.html>.
Monday, February 6, 2012
White Liar - Miranda Lambert
I believe that White Liar by Miranda Lambert has a perfect description of Iago in Othello. She is basically talking about how the truth will eventually come out, and when it does, he will be in so much trouble. This did happen to Iago in the play because he lied to everyone throughout the play, and it hurt him in the end. The following lyrics of the song demonstrates what I think are the most important lines of the song.
"The truth comes out a little at a time
And it spreads just like a fire
Slips off of your tongue like turpentine"
And it spreads just like a fire
Slips off of your tongue like turpentine"
In Act V of Othello, all of the main characters were in a room discussing why Othello killed his wife, and the truth starts coming from Emilia. During this event, Iago has nothing to say as he does not wish to confirm or deny the truth. The truth came out a little at a time, and it spread very quickly as Othello tried to kill Iago immediately. Throughout the play, Iago's lies just slipped off his tongue like nothing was wrong. He deceived Desdemona, Othello, Emilia, Roderigo, and Cassio and makes them all believe something different. In the end, everyone finds out all of the lies that Iago has been telling them, but most of them end up getting killed anyway.
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