"...the guest was now the master of Wuthering Heights." -pg. 162
Oh, how the tables have turned! But seriously, the once-hated Heathcliff has now gained control of Wuthering Heights. Although I'm rather confused on how, he takes over the Earnshaw's place of residence after Mr. Earnshaw dies. To me, this foreshadows gloom towards all of Wuthering Heights. It further adds to the contrast between his place of residence and the Grange. The Grange is still a place of home and comfort, especially now that Healthcliff has taken over Wuthering Heights. This also represents a large shift in power. It upturns the idea of discrimination and proves that the minority can overcome the ones who have been putting them down.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Wuthering Heights 7
"his basilisk eyes were nearly quenched by sleeplessness and weeping" -pg. 155
This quote is describing Heathcliff and his misery. Heathcliff, a very complex character, can be hated and sympathized by readers. Personally, I really hate him. However, this quote and his experiences bring on a sympathy towards him. He has gone through discrimination and loss of the only person who didn't look down on him. However, based on his actions, he is characterized as evil. He tries to harm Earnshaw and Isabella many times, and is very hateful towards everyone after Catherine's death. Moments of sympathy cannot bring me to like him as a character.
This quote is describing Heathcliff and his misery. Heathcliff, a very complex character, can be hated and sympathized by readers. Personally, I really hate him. However, this quote and his experiences bring on a sympathy towards him. He has gone through discrimination and loss of the only person who didn't look down on him. However, based on his actions, he is characterized as evil. He tries to harm Earnshaw and Isabella many times, and is very hateful towards everyone after Catherine's death. Moments of sympathy cannot bring me to like him as a character.
Wuthering Heights 6
"...what had urged her to escape from Wuthering Heights." -pg. 149
This is just one example of the contrast between Wuthering Heights and the Grange. Bronte uses diction when describing Wuthering Heights that is dark, confined, and resembles a prison. In this quote, the speaker is "escaping" from Wuthering Heights as if it is a prison. Their place of refuge is always the Grange. Many times the characters have said they feel at home or have a sense of warmth here. The Grange greatly contrasts Wuthering Heights by the use of imagery and diction. Without this imagery and diction, we would not be able to get into the thoughts of the characters because of the first person narrative. The Grange continues to be a place of refuge and warmth throughout the book.
This is just one example of the contrast between Wuthering Heights and the Grange. Bronte uses diction when describing Wuthering Heights that is dark, confined, and resembles a prison. In this quote, the speaker is "escaping" from Wuthering Heights as if it is a prison. Their place of refuge is always the Grange. Many times the characters have said they feel at home or have a sense of warmth here. The Grange greatly contrasts Wuthering Heights by the use of imagery and diction. Without this imagery and diction, we would not be able to get into the thoughts of the characters because of the first person narrative. The Grange continues to be a place of refuge and warmth throughout the book.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Wuthering Heights 5
"Before I came to live here...I was almost always at Wuthering Heights." -pg. 29
Mrs. Dean, the narrator of the inner story, gives the reader information through anechdotes. In contrast, Lockwood gives us information through his thoughts and feelings. This change in narrator gives the reader more insight into the events of the story. Mrs. Dean's anechdotes are the primary source we get information about the past from. This change of narrator also represents a change in setting. Lockwood narrates in 1801, which is the present. Mrs. Dean's stories are set in the mid 1970's to the present. This is why Mrs. Dean's anechdotes are so important--they give the reader information about the past that we would not currently know without them.
Mrs. Dean, the narrator of the inner story, gives the reader information through anechdotes. In contrast, Lockwood gives us information through his thoughts and feelings. This change in narrator gives the reader more insight into the events of the story. Mrs. Dean's anechdotes are the primary source we get information about the past from. This change of narrator also represents a change in setting. Lockwood narrates in 1801, which is the present. Mrs. Dean's stories are set in the mid 1970's to the present. This is why Mrs. Dean's anechdotes are so important--they give the reader information about the past that we would not currently know without them.
Wuthering Heights 4
"It would degrade me to marry Heathcliff now; so he shall never know how I love him." -pg. 70
This brings about a big theme in the book-- the battle between what a character really wants, and the character's duty to his/her family. In this example, Catherine obviously loves Heathcliff very much, yet she cannot marry him because of his social status. Heathcliff was a beggar and is very dirty. He was picked up by the family because he was left on the side of the road. Because of this, Catherine feels like she cannot marry him and her family will not approve. However, this decision sends her into a downward spiral. Although she marries Edgar and thinks she is happy, she truly loves Heathcliff until the day she dies. She frustrates me as a character simply because she was the cause of all this destruction, including her own. She made the decision to marry Edgar over Heathcliff, causing her all this heartbreak and her own death.
This brings about a big theme in the book-- the battle between what a character really wants, and the character's duty to his/her family. In this example, Catherine obviously loves Heathcliff very much, yet she cannot marry him because of his social status. Heathcliff was a beggar and is very dirty. He was picked up by the family because he was left on the side of the road. Because of this, Catherine feels like she cannot marry him and her family will not approve. However, this decision sends her into a downward spiral. Although she marries Edgar and thinks she is happy, she truly loves Heathcliff until the day she dies. She frustrates me as a character simply because she was the cause of all this destruction, including her own. She made the decision to marry Edgar over Heathcliff, causing her all this heartbreak and her own death.
Wuthering Heights 3
"A high wind blustered round the house, and roared in the chimney; it sounded wild and stormy, yet it was not cold." -pg. 36
This scene is one example of how nature parallels to the events of the story. Wuthering Heights gets its name from the way the weather is stormy and dark sometimes, or "Wuthering". This example of the weather being described as stormy and windy directly parallels to the events going on within the residence. The father had just died and there is lots of mourning within the house. This also lets the reader know that whenever the weather is stormy or "Wuthering," the relationships and the events within the residences are reflective of the weather. It also shows the effect that nature has on the town and the towns near it. In the first few chapters, Lockwood was stuck at the Heathcliffs' because of the snowy weather locking him in. This also effected the plot by the dialect and events that happened during his short stay.
This scene is one example of how nature parallels to the events of the story. Wuthering Heights gets its name from the way the weather is stormy and dark sometimes, or "Wuthering". This example of the weather being described as stormy and windy directly parallels to the events going on within the residence. The father had just died and there is lots of mourning within the house. This also lets the reader know that whenever the weather is stormy or "Wuthering," the relationships and the events within the residences are reflective of the weather. It also shows the effect that nature has on the town and the towns near it. In the first few chapters, Lockwood was stuck at the Heathcliffs' because of the snowy weather locking him in. This also effected the plot by the dialect and events that happened during his short stay.
Wuthering Heights 2
"I have gained the reputation of deliberate heartlessness." -pg. 3
The narrator, Lockwood, directly characterizes himself here as heartless. He then proceeds to tell a story of how a woman broke his heart due to requainted love. This small anechdote from the narrator gives us a look into who he is as a person. This anechdote also foreshadows the rest of the book and the story within the frame. As I progressed through the book, I realized that this was foreshadowing of the complicated love that Catherine and Heathcliff share. Healthcliff, much like Lockwood, was unable to be with his love because she would not be with him. Healthcliff was too rugged and dirty for Catherine to marry, and this caused Healthcliff to be heartless. This heartlessness is shown towards Edgar, Isabella, and the rest of their family.
The narrator, Lockwood, directly characterizes himself here as heartless. He then proceeds to tell a story of how a woman broke his heart due to requainted love. This small anechdote from the narrator gives us a look into who he is as a person. This anechdote also foreshadows the rest of the book and the story within the frame. As I progressed through the book, I realized that this was foreshadowing of the complicated love that Catherine and Heathcliff share. Healthcliff, much like Lockwood, was unable to be with his love because she would not be with him. Healthcliff was too rugged and dirty for Catherine to marry, and this caused Healthcliff to be heartless. This heartlessness is shown towards Edgar, Isabella, and the rest of their family.
Wuthering Heights 1
"Cathy and I escaped from the wash-house to have a ramble at liberty." -pg. 40
This quote is one of many that starts the chapter of Nelly Dean narrating. She also starts to narrate the book for as far as chapter 16. The change of narrators is an example of a frame story. The outer frame, Mr. Lockwood's diary, recalls the accounts of Mrs. Dean telling her story to Lockwood. In this story, Mrs. Dean becomes the first person narrator. This change of narration has an effect on the information and feelings we are able to capture. When Lockwood is narrating, his feelings are ardently expressed and further help to characterize him. Mrs. Dean only gives anechdotal accounts, so we only know how the characters are feeling because of their actions and words.
This quote is one of many that starts the chapter of Nelly Dean narrating. She also starts to narrate the book for as far as chapter 16. The change of narrators is an example of a frame story. The outer frame, Mr. Lockwood's diary, recalls the accounts of Mrs. Dean telling her story to Lockwood. In this story, Mrs. Dean becomes the first person narrator. This change of narration has an effect on the information and feelings we are able to capture. When Lockwood is narrating, his feelings are ardently expressed and further help to characterize him. Mrs. Dean only gives anechdotal accounts, so we only know how the characters are feeling because of their actions and words.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Frankenstein Tres
"...learn my miseries, and do not seek to increase your own." -pg. 156
Here we have another parallel of characterization and plot. Victor is telling Walton that he does not wish to tell of the creation process. He wants Victor to learn from his story and not make the same mistakes he did and cause himself misery. Much like Victor, Walton is seeking scientific information that nobody has found out how to do. Victor tells his story to warn him of the unseen consequences and to think of his actions before he acts. He also doesn't want his creation process getting out to anyone because his whole family (minus Ernest) was murdered because of the chain of events. He himself died from the misery the monster he created had given him. Victor cares about Walton and does not wish the same miseries on him.
Here we have another parallel of characterization and plot. Victor is telling Walton that he does not wish to tell of the creation process. He wants Victor to learn from his story and not make the same mistakes he did and cause himself misery. Much like Victor, Walton is seeking scientific information that nobody has found out how to do. Victor tells his story to warn him of the unseen consequences and to think of his actions before he acts. He also doesn't want his creation process getting out to anyone because his whole family (minus Ernest) was murdered because of the chain of events. He himself died from the misery the monster he created had given him. Victor cares about Walton and does not wish the same miseries on him.
Frankenstein Dos
"Over him hung a form which I cannot find words to describe:--gigantic in stature, yet uncouth and distorted in its proportions...but one vast hand was extended" -pg. 163
This scene, as the last scene of the novel, reflects one of the first scenes of the book. The creation scene in the very beginning is mirrored in this ending scene. The monster is standing over Victor with his hand extended to him. Circumstances, however, are much different. Victor is lying dead in this last scene, while he is full of life in the first. The creature has the same intentions even though his stages of life are different. The creature is reaching out for help and consolation in both scenes, even though Victor is dead in the last. In a baby state of mind in the first scene, the monster only knows of his creator and reaches out in affection. In the last scene, the monster returns to his creator and reaches out full of regret, hoping for his consolation and forgiveness.
This scene, as the last scene of the novel, reflects one of the first scenes of the book. The creation scene in the very beginning is mirrored in this ending scene. The monster is standing over Victor with his hand extended to him. Circumstances, however, are much different. Victor is lying dead in this last scene, while he is full of life in the first. The creature has the same intentions even though his stages of life are different. The creature is reaching out for help and consolation in both scenes, even though Victor is dead in the last. In a baby state of mind in the first scene, the monster only knows of his creator and reaches out in affection. In the last scene, the monster returns to his creator and reaches out full of regret, hoping for his consolation and forgiveness.
Frankenstein Uno
"Evil thenceforth became my good. Urged thus far, I had no choice but to adapt my nature to an element which I had willingly chosen." -pg. 164
The creatures last speech in the book presents alot of important themes and supposed explanations. This specific quote is his explanation for why he murdered all the people he did. Now filled with sorrow and regret, the monster presents a large theme of the book: good vs. evil. His justification is that he had chosen evil at one point and had to continue on in it. He also states that the evil was from jealousy of happiness and he thinks Victor doesn't deserve to be happy if he isn't. This constant battle between this chosen evil and the actual good nature of the monster is a struggle throughout the whole book, although we often do not see it. His explanation, although his own choice, strains him as he sees Victor dead.
The creatures last speech in the book presents alot of important themes and supposed explanations. This specific quote is his explanation for why he murdered all the people he did. Now filled with sorrow and regret, the monster presents a large theme of the book: good vs. evil. His justification is that he had chosen evil at one point and had to continue on in it. He also states that the evil was from jealousy of happiness and he thinks Victor doesn't deserve to be happy if he isn't. This constant battle between this chosen evil and the actual good nature of the monster is a struggle throughout the whole book, although we often do not see it. His explanation, although his own choice, strains him as he sees Victor dead.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Frankenstein 5
"I shall satiate my ardent curiosity with the sight of a part of the world never before visited, and may tread a land never before imprinted by the foot of man." -pg. 1
An important observation that can be made is the similarity between Robert and Victor. The similarities are supported by the fact that they instantly become friends. Also, Victor trusts Robert very quickly to tell him this story of the monster he created. They are similar in the fact they like and seek adventure and knowledge. Robert is searching for what draws magnets to the north pole. Victor was searching knowledge on how to create life from lifeless matter. The difference, however, is that we know Victor has succeeded. Victor tells his story so that Robert will not carry on his journey and obtain knowledge that can have harmful consequences in the future.
An important observation that can be made is the similarity between Robert and Victor. The similarities are supported by the fact that they instantly become friends. Also, Victor trusts Robert very quickly to tell him this story of the monster he created. They are similar in the fact they like and seek adventure and knowledge. Robert is searching for what draws magnets to the north pole. Victor was searching knowledge on how to create life from lifeless matter. The difference, however, is that we know Victor has succeeded. Victor tells his story so that Robert will not carry on his journey and obtain knowledge that can have harmful consequences in the future.
Frankenstein 4
"all sound of joy or complacency was torture to me; solitude wa smy only consolation--deep, dark, deathlike solitude." -pg. 61
This point of the book hits on two themes developed in the book--guilt and solitude. After Justine's death, Victor is feeling extreme guilt. He thinks because he created the monster that supposedly killed William and indirectly killed Justine that he is responsible for these deaths. I personally believe he is mildly responsible, because he left the monster to fend for himself. He can't just create something, then just let it run into the wild without knowing anything about the world. Another theme this hits on is solitude. To Victor, the only thing that can cure this extreme guilt is to be put in solitude and go on a journey. This solitude also shows up in other characters' journeys, such as the monster's and Robert's and the beginning of the book.
This point of the book hits on two themes developed in the book--guilt and solitude. After Justine's death, Victor is feeling extreme guilt. He thinks because he created the monster that supposedly killed William and indirectly killed Justine that he is responsible for these deaths. I personally believe he is mildly responsible, because he left the monster to fend for himself. He can't just create something, then just let it run into the wild without knowing anything about the world. Another theme this hits on is solitude. To Victor, the only thing that can cure this extreme guilt is to be put in solitude and go on a journey. This solitude also shows up in other characters' journeys, such as the monster's and Robert's and the beginning of the book.
Frankenstein 3
"I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend." -pg. 69
Another important thematic aspect of this book is nature vs. nurture. When Victor created his monster, he instantly believed he was a monster by nature. By birth, he was evil and was out to hurt him. That's why he killed William and indirectly allowed Justine to die. However, in the last few chapters of the first half of the book, the monster tries to argue the nurture side of his upbringing. He says he is a fiend and is evil because of what humans have done to him and how they have treated him. The monster begins to tell his story of why he is evil now. However, he shows signs of being kind-hearted at the beginning of his life, doing good deeds for the family in the cottage he stayed next to. Nature vs. nurture continues to be a theme throughout the book as we find out the monster's true story and upbringing.
Another important thematic aspect of this book is nature vs. nurture. When Victor created his monster, he instantly believed he was a monster by nature. By birth, he was evil and was out to hurt him. That's why he killed William and indirectly allowed Justine to die. However, in the last few chapters of the first half of the book, the monster tries to argue the nurture side of his upbringing. He says he is a fiend and is evil because of what humans have done to him and how they have treated him. The monster begins to tell his story of why he is evil now. However, he shows signs of being kind-hearted at the beginning of his life, doing good deeds for the family in the cottage he stayed next to. Nature vs. nurture continues to be a theme throughout the book as we find out the monster's true story and upbringing.
Frankenstein 2
"a being which had the shape of a man, but apparently of gigantic stature, sat in the sledge, and guided the dogs." -pg. 8
Mary Shelley writes this book different from many others--she gives us the ending, and we must read on in suspense to find out the beginning and middle. This giving-away of the ending does not spoil the book, however. It gives the book its most important aspect--suspense. The suspense created by revealing where the monster and Victor ends up keeps me engaged and gives the book its eerie feeling and atmosphere. Revealing the monster on a sled near the Arctic also foreshadows what might happen in the middle. This foreshadowing lets the reader know when the ending is. As Victor is running away from the monster in chapter five, for example, we know that things will change. At the end of the book, Victor will be chasing the monster as he is in the Arctic.
Mary Shelley writes this book different from many others--she gives us the ending, and we must read on in suspense to find out the beginning and middle. This giving-away of the ending does not spoil the book, however. It gives the book its most important aspect--suspense. The suspense created by revealing where the monster and Victor ends up keeps me engaged and gives the book its eerie feeling and atmosphere. Revealing the monster on a sled near the Arctic also foreshadows what might happen in the middle. This foreshadowing lets the reader know when the ending is. As Victor is running away from the monster in chapter five, for example, we know that things will change. At the end of the book, Victor will be chasing the monster as he is in the Arctic.
Frankenstein 1
"I have resolved every night, when I am not imperatively occupied by my duties, to record, as nearly as possible in his own words, what he has related during the day." -pg. 13-14
The format of this book is in letter form. The most important part to realize in the letters is the frame stories that surround the different letters. The first story is Robert and his journey, recording Victor's story. Within Victor's story we find many stories, such as the monster's story. Although this may be hard to track, it is very important to follow because the characters are often similar or reflect important qualities in each other. For example, Robert and Victor are much alike in the fact that they seek adventure. These frame stories reflect more than just characterization-- the reflect theme and plot as well. The frame stories are a very important theme and aspect of the story as a whole.
The format of this book is in letter form. The most important part to realize in the letters is the frame stories that surround the different letters. The first story is Robert and his journey, recording Victor's story. Within Victor's story we find many stories, such as the monster's story. Although this may be hard to track, it is very important to follow because the characters are often similar or reflect important qualities in each other. For example, Robert and Victor are much alike in the fact that they seek adventure. These frame stories reflect more than just characterization-- the reflect theme and plot as well. The frame stories are a very important theme and aspect of the story as a whole.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
A Raisin in the Sun 3
"Guys aren't going to go for the atmosphere--they're going to go for what they see." - II.ii.96
This quote is from George, the most ignorant kid I've read about in a play. He's very shallow and only expects girls to act like they're supposed to. They're only supposed to be pretty and do housework, according to him. This doesn't fit well with the dream that Beneatha has to become a doctor. The purpose of this was to create even more tension between women and men. There's already tension with race and economic status. This scene causes differences between what men excpect from women and dreams that women have for themselves--specifically Beneatha. This also causes even more tension in the family between what Beneatha wants in a man.
This quote is from George, the most ignorant kid I've read about in a play. He's very shallow and only expects girls to act like they're supposed to. They're only supposed to be pretty and do housework, according to him. This doesn't fit well with the dream that Beneatha has to become a doctor. The purpose of this was to create even more tension between women and men. There's already tension with race and economic status. This scene causes differences between what men excpect from women and dreams that women have for themselves--specifically Beneatha. This also causes even more tension in the family between what Beneatha wants in a man.
A Raisin in the Sun 2
"But Lord, child, you should know all the dreams I had 'bout buying tha thouse and fixing it up and making me a little garden in the back--And didn't none of it happen."
This quote from Mama is a perfect reference to why the book is called "A Raisin in the Sun". The title is an allusion to a poem by Langston Hughes called "A Dream Deferred". The quote from the poem that contains the title is, "What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up, like a raisin in the sun?" The importance of this is to allude to the dreams of the Younger family. Their dreams of a huge house, changing the world, an end to racism, and an end to sexism are in risk of becoming a dream deferred. The book title alludes to the fact that if they sit around and watch their dreams pass them by and not work for it, their dreams will dry up and pass them by "like a raisin in the sun". Many of their dreams, such as a house or an end to racism, have passed them by because they have sit back and let it. However, things are changing as they get a new house.
This quote from Mama is a perfect reference to why the book is called "A Raisin in the Sun". The title is an allusion to a poem by Langston Hughes called "A Dream Deferred". The quote from the poem that contains the title is, "What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up, like a raisin in the sun?" The importance of this is to allude to the dreams of the Younger family. Their dreams of a huge house, changing the world, an end to racism, and an end to sexism are in risk of becoming a dream deferred. The book title alludes to the fact that if they sit around and watch their dreams pass them by and not work for it, their dreams will dry up and pass them by "like a raisin in the sun". Many of their dreams, such as a house or an end to racism, have passed them by because they have sit back and let it. However, things are changing as they get a new house.
A Raisin in the Sun 1
"And we have decided to move into our house because my father--my father--he earned it for us brick for brick." -pg. III.i.48
In the quote above, Walter is speaking to the man from the "Welcoming Committee". This specific moment shows how Walter is a dynamic character. Walter shows that he is dynamic by his mood swings as well. As soon as he has money in his possession, he becomes an all-around happier person. During this last scene, Walter changes his beliefs on how he should be an example to his family and protect him. At the beginning, Walter was greedy and selfish, wanting only his dreams to be considered for the $10,000 check. By the end, the money didn't matter to him and he held himself with dignity, respct, and self-confidence. Although this dynamicy caused problems in the beginning, his family was happy with him in the end.
In the quote above, Walter is speaking to the man from the "Welcoming Committee". This specific moment shows how Walter is a dynamic character. Walter shows that he is dynamic by his mood swings as well. As soon as he has money in his possession, he becomes an all-around happier person. During this last scene, Walter changes his beliefs on how he should be an example to his family and protect him. At the beginning, Walter was greedy and selfish, wanting only his dreams to be considered for the $10,000 check. By the end, the money didn't matter to him and he held himself with dignity, respct, and self-confidence. Although this dynamicy caused problems in the beginning, his family was happy with him in the end.
Monday, February 27, 2012
The Glass Menagerie 3
"In all respects--believe me! Your eyes--your hair--are pretty! Your hands are pretty!" -pg. 1283
When I was reading this part, I felt like I was in the middle of a love story. Jim was being sweet towards Laura and seemed interested in her. He even kissed her. However, when he said he was married, I became furious. Typical girl reaction, I know. But then what was the point of this story that got my hopes up that just ended in another guy leaving Laura's life? I believe the point was to show Laura's strength that the rest of her family doesn't have. Tom ends up leaving just like his father. Amanda tries to deal with her husband leaving her by pushing Laura towards dating many men. Laura seems to be the opposite of her exterior.
When I was reading this part, I felt like I was in the middle of a love story. Jim was being sweet towards Laura and seemed interested in her. He even kissed her. However, when he said he was married, I became furious. Typical girl reaction, I know. But then what was the point of this story that got my hopes up that just ended in another guy leaving Laura's life? I believe the point was to show Laura's strength that the rest of her family doesn't have. Tom ends up leaving just like his father. Amanda tries to deal with her husband leaving her by pushing Laura towards dating many men. Laura seems to be the opposite of her exterior.
The Glass Menagerie 2
"A little physical defect is what you have. Hardly noticeable even! Magnified thousands of times by imagination!" -pg. 1280
Laura seems to be the pivitol character in the play. The title "The Glass Menagerie" also turns the attention on Laura. The end of the play is Tom thinking about Laura and how he left her. What makes her stand out from her family is her shyness. Her mother is quite opposite of shy, and her brother goes out and drinks and smokes in social places. Laura is shy and insecure because of her physical disability. Growing up, she amplified the disability in her head. This caused her to shy away from being a social person. These qualities make Laura a sympathetic character. The reader feels sympathy for her because we all can relate to certain insecurities. Laura's insecurities causes problems in her relationship with her mom and other men.
Laura seems to be the pivitol character in the play. The title "The Glass Menagerie" also turns the attention on Laura. The end of the play is Tom thinking about Laura and how he left her. What makes her stand out from her family is her shyness. Her mother is quite opposite of shy, and her brother goes out and drinks and smokes in social places. Laura is shy and insecure because of her physical disability. Growing up, she amplified the disability in her head. This caused her to shy away from being a social person. These qualities make Laura a sympathetic character. The reader feels sympathy for her because we all can relate to certain insecurities. Laura's insecurities causes problems in her relationship with her mom and other men.
The Glass Menagerie 1
"The scene is memory and is therefore nonrealistic. Memory takes a lot of poetic license." -pg. 1235
Before the first scene even begins, the author lets us know that this play is memory. It is all told from the perspective of Tom, and it is all from his memory. This means that much of the play is nonrealistic. What happens is not realistically what really happened, although he tries to give us the best account. Memory is nonrealistic because our memory can change certain things in order to heighten emotions or certain aspects of the past. Others ways in which the play is nonrealistic is the music, lighting, and breaking the fourth wall. The purpose of the memory play is to tug at the heart and the emotions the narrator feels. His view is what is presented to the audience.
Before the first scene even begins, the author lets us know that this play is memory. It is all told from the perspective of Tom, and it is all from his memory. This means that much of the play is nonrealistic. What happens is not realistically what really happened, although he tries to give us the best account. Memory is nonrealistic because our memory can change certain things in order to heighten emotions or certain aspects of the past. Others ways in which the play is nonrealistic is the music, lighting, and breaking the fourth wall. The purpose of the memory play is to tug at the heart and the emotions the narrator feels. His view is what is presented to the audience.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
As You Like It 3
"But come, now I will be your Rosalind in a more coming-on disposition, and ask me what you will, I will grant it." IV.i.57
Ah, the typical play where the girl pretending to be a guy is pretending to be the girl she actually is. However, that's not very typical, and doesn't make much sense. That's what I love about this Shakespere comedy. Tragedies have more to analyze, yet are not as light-hearted and entertaining. Othello had morals to be learned and character flaws, yet As You Like it has clowns and wrestling and girls pretending to be guys pretending to be girls. Comedies seem to be more all over the place, however. Tragedies are well thought out and often have clear protagonists and antagonists. This comedy doesn't really have a clear bad guy, considering everyone is happy in the end. Personally, I'd rather read a not-too-funny comedy than a tragedy.
Ah, the typical play where the girl pretending to be a guy is pretending to be the girl she actually is. However, that's not very typical, and doesn't make much sense. That's what I love about this Shakespere comedy. Tragedies have more to analyze, yet are not as light-hearted and entertaining. Othello had morals to be learned and character flaws, yet As You Like it has clowns and wrestling and girls pretending to be guys pretending to be girls. Comedies seem to be more all over the place, however. Tragedies are well thought out and often have clear protagonists and antagonists. This comedy doesn't really have a clear bad guy, considering everyone is happy in the end. Personally, I'd rather read a not-too-funny comedy than a tragedy.
As You Like It 2
"so wouldst thou, if the truth of thy love to me were so righteously tempered as mine is to thee." I.ii.5
A common theme of the play is that love heals. In the quote, Celia is joking with Rosalind about how she loves her more than Rosalind does. In reality, these two cousins have immense love for each other. They are just one example of how love heals. When her father was banished, Rosalind found comfort in the love of Celia. That's why she got to say in the city even though her father was kicked out. The relationship of the two cousins was a healing power for both Celia and Rosalind. Another example is how Oliver's new love for his brother healed their friendship. Love continues to be a healing force throughout the play.
A common theme of the play is that love heals. In the quote, Celia is joking with Rosalind about how she loves her more than Rosalind does. In reality, these two cousins have immense love for each other. They are just one example of how love heals. When her father was banished, Rosalind found comfort in the love of Celia. That's why she got to say in the city even though her father was kicked out. The relationship of the two cousins was a healing power for both Celia and Rosalind. Another example is how Oliver's new love for his brother healed their friendship. Love continues to be a healing force throughout the play.
As You Like It 1
"Brief, I recover'd him, bound up his wound; And, after some small space, being strong at heart, He sent me hither" IV.iii.65
This is the scene that Oliver saves his brother Orlando and bounds up his wound from the lionness. At the beginning of the play, Oliver hated his brother and wanted to burn him and his house down. This scene proves that Oliver is a dynamic character. We first see him as a hateful, vengeful brother who does not care for Orlando like he should when their father dies. He meets with Duke Frederick and has a change of heart. His change of heart could stem from the fact that even Duke Frederick calls him more villanous than himself, which is an insult. Oliver travels to the forest to find his brother and ends up showing him he loves him. Oliver's dynamic character is just one of few in the play.
This is the scene that Oliver saves his brother Orlando and bounds up his wound from the lionness. At the beginning of the play, Oliver hated his brother and wanted to burn him and his house down. This scene proves that Oliver is a dynamic character. We first see him as a hateful, vengeful brother who does not care for Orlando like he should when their father dies. He meets with Duke Frederick and has a change of heart. His change of heart could stem from the fact that even Duke Frederick calls him more villanous than himself, which is an insult. Oliver travels to the forest to find his brother and ends up showing him he loves him. Oliver's dynamic character is just one of few in the play.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Reflective Essay
Shakespeare’s tragedy “Othello” is a truly timeless piece that can be applied to many works or historical events today. Not only can it apply to literature, but it can apply to entertainment as well. One of the biggest themes in Othello is that jealousy is a powerful, often destructive force. This timeless theme applies to two pieces of work. As a whole, A Separate Peace by John Knowles deals with a teenager’s jealousy that eventually leads to his best friend’s death. “Black Cat” by Mayday Parade is a song about jealousy causing destruction. The three works have the timeless theme of jealousy that ends with a destructive, tragic event.
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| Violent, yet the consequence of jealousy |
The novel A Separate Peace is a more modern, classic work involving jealousy and a tragic ending. Gene, the narrator, prefaces the theme, “I couldn’t help envying him a little, which was perfectly normal. There was no harm in envying your best friend a little” (Knowles 25). The last line, however, is ironic in the fact that Gene’s jealousy might have caused Finny’s death (the best friend). Jealousy in A Separate Peace is much like it is in “Othello”. It builds inside a character and creates a devastating end. Othello kills Desdemona out of the suspicion and jealousy that dwells inside him over the course of the play (V.ii.95). The death of the two people who were closest to the protagonists, Othello and Gene, ended up dead because of the destructive force of jealousy. John Knowles’ novel is a parallel to Shakespeare’s classic tragedy when it comes to the theme of jealousy.
A novel or play is not the only piece of work that uses jealousy as a destructive force. Mayday Parade, a popular band today, created a song five years ago that had a central theme of jealousy. The jealousy is in the lyrics, “It’s not your part but all your fault, and this jealous actress has a habit of making things sound way too tragic” (Mayday Parade). Iago exaggerates and lies about Desdemona’s disloyalty, which makes her sound exceedingly more dishonest than she really is. Jealous Othello makes his life sound way more tragic than it is in reality. Much like in the song, the jealousy causes the characters to overreact to suspicion. By making things seem more tragic than they really are, it leads to the death of innocent characters. Although no one dies in the song, the harsh tone and diction of the lyrics suggest destruction because of the jealousy—much like in the two works of fiction.
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| The source of all destruction |
Not only do the three works all have tragedy, they are caused by the green-eyed monster of jealousy. In most works of fiction, nonfiction, and in real-life events, jealousy does not have a happy ending. Jealousy is destructive, and ends in the death of the two protagonists of the fiction works. Although the plots of “Othello”, A Separate Peace, and “Black Cat” are different, the end is the same—tragic destruction. Jealousy is timeless and around today, and often still ends in this same destruction.
Works Cited
Knowles, John. A Separate Peace; a Novel. New York: Macmillan, 1960. Print.
Mayday Parade. "Black Cat." Rec. 10 July 2001. A Lesson in Romantics. Fearless
Records, 2007. MP3.
Worth. Harcourt College
Monday, February 6, 2012
I Will Follow You into the Dark
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Othello Blog 3
"O Spartan dog, More fell than anguish, hunger, or the sea! Look on the tragic loading of this bed: This is thy work." V.ii.360-363
The theme I want to touch on is that jealousy is a powerful, often destructive force. This quote is where Lodovico is pointing to the bed of Othello, Emilia, and Desdemona dead. Iago is the reason for all of this. The root of all this death is jealousy from Iago and Othello. Iago was first jealous of Cassio that he was Othello's commander. Second, Iago was jealous of Othello supposedly sleeping with his wife. He then manipulated Othello into thinking Desdemona was having an affair with Cassio. This caused outrageous jealousy, and Othello killed Desdemona. Things just snowballed from there, and now you have three dead people. Jealousy is very destructive (clearly) and mostly harms the person who is jealous.
The theme I want to touch on is that jealousy is a powerful, often destructive force. This quote is where Lodovico is pointing to the bed of Othello, Emilia, and Desdemona dead. Iago is the reason for all of this. The root of all this death is jealousy from Iago and Othello. Iago was first jealous of Cassio that he was Othello's commander. Second, Iago was jealous of Othello supposedly sleeping with his wife. He then manipulated Othello into thinking Desdemona was having an affair with Cassio. This caused outrageous jealousy, and Othello killed Desdemona. Things just snowballed from there, and now you have three dead people. Jealousy is very destructive (clearly) and mostly harms the person who is jealous.
Othello Blog 2
"(Draws, and wounds RODERIGO.) Oh, I am slain! (IAGO from behind wounds CASSIO in the leg, and exits.)...(Enter OTHELLO)." V.i.26-30
The quote above represents the importance of stage directions and action in the play. Other physical effects make the play important as well. Without these effects, the reader would be confused as to who is stabbing who, who is dying, and who is responsible for the actions in the play. It contributes to emotion by creating the action in the scenes that bring drama to the play. It also contributes to the climax of the play and the falling action. Gestures would also be important to see how certain characters relay some lines. When sarcasm or slyness is added, the reader sometimes cannot pick up on that. Expressions and gestures in the play would be able to relay that to the audience in a better way.
The quote above represents the importance of stage directions and action in the play. Other physical effects make the play important as well. Without these effects, the reader would be confused as to who is stabbing who, who is dying, and who is responsible for the actions in the play. It contributes to emotion by creating the action in the scenes that bring drama to the play. It also contributes to the climax of the play and the falling action. Gestures would also be important to see how certain characters relay some lines. When sarcasm or slyness is added, the reader sometimes cannot pick up on that. Expressions and gestures in the play would be able to relay that to the audience in a better way.
Othello Blog 1
"Now I will question Cassio of Bianca, A housewife that by selling her desires Buys herself bread and clothes." IV.i.91-93
The quote from the scene above represents an important theme in Othello. In the scene, Iago is tricking Othello into thinking Cassio is bragging about sleeping with Desdemona, but Cassio is really talking about Bianca. This trickery brings up the important theme that appearance and reality are not always the same. Iago is the character that mainly makes up false realities to other characters and is very deceitful. His actions, although rather unclear, are to get back at Othello. This false reality Iago often creates leads Othello to kill his wife Desdemona and then kill himself. Once everyone finds out true reality and not what it appears to be, Iago is sent to be tortured. This means that this false reality is a negative thing for Iago, even though he thought he was going to take down Othello from it.
The quote from the scene above represents an important theme in Othello. In the scene, Iago is tricking Othello into thinking Cassio is bragging about sleeping with Desdemona, but Cassio is really talking about Bianca. This trickery brings up the important theme that appearance and reality are not always the same. Iago is the character that mainly makes up false realities to other characters and is very deceitful. His actions, although rather unclear, are to get back at Othello. This false reality Iago often creates leads Othello to kill his wife Desdemona and then kill himself. Once everyone finds out true reality and not what it appears to be, Iago is sent to be tortured. This means that this false reality is a negative thing for Iago, even though he thought he was going to take down Othello from it.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Othello Act II continued
"Aye, that's the way. Dull not device by coldness and delay." II.iii.350-351
Othello is much different from other plays, or Shakespearean plays. The reader is gaining information from the antagonist's point of view. This creates a weird understanding towards the antagonist. Although Iago is deceitful and dishonest, we know what his motivations are and understand. This also creates suspense because it makes us want to tell the protagonists what's really going on. Personally, I don't like Iago. Although we are supposed to have an understanding for him, I don't. What put me off the most was the rude comments about different types of women. However, it is true his soliloquies keep me wanting to know more.
Othello is much different from other plays, or Shakespearean plays. The reader is gaining information from the antagonist's point of view. This creates a weird understanding towards the antagonist. Although Iago is deceitful and dishonest, we know what his motivations are and understand. This also creates suspense because it makes us want to tell the protagonists what's really going on. Personally, I don't like Iago. Although we are supposed to have an understanding for him, I don't. What put me off the most was the rude comments about different types of women. However, it is true his soliloquies keep me wanting to know more.
Othello Act II
"If she be fair and wise, fairness and wit, The one's for use, the other useth it." II.i.129-130
During scene one of act II, Iago speaks disrespectfully about women to Desdemona and Emilia. On the other hand, Cassio treats them both with respect. He kisses their hand and calls them 'madame'. This separates the protagonists and the antagonists. Iago, the antagonist, is shown here as disrespectful and rude. He is trying to ruin Othello through manipulation of Cassio and Desdemona. Although this scene is not the determinant of the antagonist/protagonist, it shows the true characters of the two. This scene also shows Iago as a foil character. In the scene, he speaks disrespectfully about women and shows his true character. However, in front of Othello and Cassio, he is honest and trustworthy.
During scene one of act II, Iago speaks disrespectfully about women to Desdemona and Emilia. On the other hand, Cassio treats them both with respect. He kisses their hand and calls them 'madame'. This separates the protagonists and the antagonists. Iago, the antagonist, is shown here as disrespectful and rude. He is trying to ruin Othello through manipulation of Cassio and Desdemona. Although this scene is not the determinant of the antagonist/protagonist, it shows the true characters of the two. This scene also shows Iago as a foil character. In the scene, he speaks disrespectfully about women and shows his true character. However, in front of Othello and Cassio, he is honest and trustworthy.
Othello Act I
"I have 't. It is engendered! Hell and night Must bring this monstrous birth to the world's light." I.iii.383-384
Above is an example of one of Iago's dramatic soliloquies. His soliloquies are the reason this play has dramatic suspense. Through his soliloquies, we learn that he has a devious plan to ruin Othello because there is suspicion he slept with Emilia, Iago's wife. In act I, we don't know the plan, which creates suspense. We also see Iago manipulate Othello and others to like him, even though it is only part of his plan. The fact the audience knows this and the characters don't creates dramatic suspense. The contrast of the audience's knowledge and Iago's kind interactions with others also informs us of the characteristics that make him a foil character. Iago is deceitful and dishonest, and his soliloquies tell us the truth of this.
Above is an example of one of Iago's dramatic soliloquies. His soliloquies are the reason this play has dramatic suspense. Through his soliloquies, we learn that he has a devious plan to ruin Othello because there is suspicion he slept with Emilia, Iago's wife. In act I, we don't know the plan, which creates suspense. We also see Iago manipulate Othello and others to like him, even though it is only part of his plan. The fact the audience knows this and the characters don't creates dramatic suspense. The contrast of the audience's knowledge and Iago's kind interactions with others also informs us of the characteristics that make him a foil character. Iago is deceitful and dishonest, and his soliloquies tell us the truth of this.
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