I am about to finish grading the blogs, but I wanted to write a quick post telling you all how much I have enjoyed having you in class this semester. Kudos to those of you who perservered after losing your original instructor two weeks into the semester. I appreciate your patience for giving me a chance to get a course thrown together in a short amount of time. I enjoyed your class discussions (when you read!), and I enjoyed getting to know you all a little better. What? Your blogs have been so enjoyable to read. I know some of you are graduating this spring. Good luck in your future endeavors. For those who will be around a bit longer, I hope to see you around campus!
The blog will remain up. Feel free to continue to interact with each other!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Metamorphosis 2
During Gregor's metamorphosis, the only person who really cared for him and helped him was his sister. "By early morning--it was still almost night--Gregor had a chance to test the strength of the resolutions he had just made, for the sister, almost fully dressed, opened the vestibule door and suspensefully peered in." (Kafka 2010-2011) She would come in and feed him everyday. "Hoping to check his likes and dislikes, she brought him a whole array of food, all spread out on an old newspaper." (Kafka 2011) The rest of the family wouldn't even dare enter his room. After an event in which an apple was thrown at him and had jammed into his back, Gregor died. The family moved on with their lives as if he were unimportant. "Then all three of them left the apartment together, which they had not done in months, and took the trolley out to the coutryside beyond the town. The streetcar, where they were the only passengers, was flooded with warm sunshine. Leaning back comfortably in their seats, they discussed their future prospects and concluded that, upon closer perusal, these were anything but bad; for while they had never actually asked one another for any details, their jobs were all exceedingly advantageous and also promising." (Kafka 2030) This shows me that they have moved on with their lives and seem happier without having to deal with Gregor.
Hedda Gabler
Henrick Ibsen's play, Hedda Gabler, was one of my favorite readings of the semester. I found it very interesting and had no trouble staying entertained. I know Hedda had a problem with power but I hated the way she used men to have power. She only wanted them if she could be in control. In the end she felt like she lost all power. She said to Brack, "Nevertheless, I'm in your power. Depended on your will, and your demands. Not free. Still not free! No. I couldn't bear that. No." (Ibsen 1517) She felt as though she had lost power because Brack had power over her. This eventually led to her committing suicide. After gunshots were heard, Tesman told Brack, "She's shot herself! Shot herself in the head? By Jove! Fancy that!" (Ibsen 1518) Once she felt she had run out of power, she committed suicide. I think Hedda was a vicitm to society because she felt that people expected things out of her, which eventually led her to being power hungry.
Metamorphosis
Frank Kafka's The Metamorphosis was a very strange story, but it was also a very good reference to life. At some point in life, we all go through some kind of change, usually more than one. Although it may not be as drastic as turning into a bug, change happens and we have to learn how to adjust as Gregor Samsa did in the story. I found it funny that even though Gregor had transformed into a bug, he tried to continue on with life as though no one would notice. He thought he could get out and go about his regular lifestyle. He said, "I'll be dressed in a minute, pack up my samples, and catch my train." (Kafka 2007) He also thought about it a second time in the story. "For now, he wanted to get up calmly without being nagged, put on his clothes, above all have breakfast, and only then think about what to do next; for he realized he would come to no sensible conclusion by pondering in bed." (Kafka 2001) Not only had he seen what most of his body looked like, but he had also tried to get out of bed and didn't succeed. There was no way he could just get out of bed and go to work. This is also a demonstration of change in life because while we are going through things in our life, we tend to put on a smile and pretend nothing is wrong, thinking no one will notice a difference.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Fragment E
Fragment E is an interesting story, now that I’ve done some serious analysis of it. It’s easy to read a story and overlook some very important details that change the way you see the story. The most interesting thing I found is the reference to religion throughout the story. In the opening paragraph, the narrator makes the first of thee references. “North Richmond Street, being blind, was a quiet street except at the hour when the Christian Brothers’ School set the boys free” (Fragment E, Paragraph 1). This suggests that the author resents the church in some way. Rather than saying “the school dismissed the boys, he uses words to suggest that the boys were imprisoned by the church.
The author also mentions the priest, who was the former tenant of their house. He describes the backyard with a central apple tree. This could be referring to the Garden of Eden, and the Tree of Life. He mentions times when his mind would revert back to the thought of the girl. “Her name sprang to my lips at moments in strange prayers and praises which I, myself did not understand” (Fragment E, Paragraph 5). The mention of strange prayers and praises here is not only a reference to religion, but the way it is being used suggests that he did not feel an obligation to this religion.
I read this story twice before I began to catch these details, and when I did, it was like a light went on, and several other things began to become obvious to me as well.
The author also mentions the priest, who was the former tenant of their house. He describes the backyard with a central apple tree. This could be referring to the Garden of Eden, and the Tree of Life. He mentions times when his mind would revert back to the thought of the girl. “Her name sprang to my lips at moments in strange prayers and praises which I, myself did not understand” (Fragment E, Paragraph 5). The mention of strange prayers and praises here is not only a reference to religion, but the way it is being used suggests that he did not feel an obligation to this religion.
I read this story twice before I began to catch these details, and when I did, it was like a light went on, and several other things began to become obvious to me as well.
Metamorphosis
This story metamorphosis is so hard to visualize and the Author Franz Kafka's use this change to catch the readers attention. In the first sentence ''One morning, upon awakening from agitated dreams, Gregor Samsa found himself, in his bed, transformed into a monstrous vermin. (Kafka 1999).'' This story took me to a suprise to find out why is a man being transformed as a bug. But the author is getting an oppurtunity to let the readers know that anything can change in your life at any giving moment. And then Gregor said"What if I slept a little more and forgot all about this nonsense,"he thought. But his idea was impossible to carry out, for while he was accutiomed to sleeping on his right side, his current state prevented him fromgetting into that position."(Kafka 1999). This statement is to recognize that he is wondering if what he is going through is real or not changing into this monstrous vermin. Gregor is aware that the life he once live will never be the same because he was to comfortable and the situation with being this bug as got him out of his comfort zone.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
The Guest
The book about the Guest is interesting, the Author Albert Camus explains how action can cause a reaction towards the choices the prisoner made in his life. Some things in life is like karma the things that you do comes back on you. In this book its about a prison guard who is alone and find a friend or company. The writer entertain the readers and make them feel like it's ok to be friendly and to show some kind towards any body no matter what they have done. The prisoner Arab is guilty of the murder he has commited and has no problem doing his time, but the Guard wants to set him free.The author is showing how the prison guard is really wanting to help the prisoner Arab to be free. The prisoner do not want to be free he knew the crime he committed and is willing to accept the punishment. This story is about friendship, companion, and being social. The guard and the prisoner is in the same area and they are by themselves so who else can they talk too. This shows that it doesn't matter who the individual is as long as its somebody to communicate with and to be social.
Fredrick Douglas
Fredrick Douglas is a slave that strive to learn who he is as a black man. As a child he seen so many of his black culture get beat, sold, and killed. He is a person that's determine to find the truth and a way to become free from slavery. Fredrick Douglas story captivates the mind of his readers to show that learning and being educated is the most powerful tool that any human being can use. He is own a quest to find away to help the black slaves to learn but some is so caught up in being a slave that they are not able to comprehend what Douglas is trying to teach them. This book shows courage and strength in Douglas life as a slave. Douglas did not know his father and he said his mother is very dark and the rumour is his father is a white man. The courage that Douglas shows is that he did not know his mom that well and never meet his father, but there is nothing in his life that made him give up. He had to sleep on the cold floor and never wore any clothes but a long white tee shirt. Douglas experience brought the best out of him to show the other slaves that they can gain power by knowledge and reading. Douglas knew what to do to gain power and he did by listening to his master wife everyday, she taught him his alphabets. Fredrick Douglas is a pioneer for many slaves and people today. Fredrick Douglas love to write and read. He knows the secret to being free and that is learning. This story show so many obstacles in Douglas life but did not allow any problem to cripple him but only made him more determine to succeed in life.
Cannibalism
Cannibalism means to devour human or animal flesh. I agree with the title of the short story, "Diary of a Madman". The Chinese Culture is filled with many mysteries and traditions. Is it unrealistic to put two and two together and believe that eating people is the norm in China? Taking apart live skin piece by piece with oozing blood dripping cheek to cheek isn't a great way to start your day. The narrarator insinuates the madness and it is a kind of sanity to Chinese Culture.
Hedda Gabler
Hedda Gabler is the main character in this play everything is wrapped in the palm of her hand. She is so beautiful and uses her charisma and deceit to manipulate the people that is around her. Hedda Gabler marries George and he is this writer that is very intelligent but is in his own world. George is willing to do whatever his wife wants him to do anything to please her. George has two aunts that love him and they helps him finical with his home and the one that is dear to him see pass away. This play is driven by power and what control that Hedda Gabler can uses over her husband and friends. She is from a rich family that was known for their power and her father being a General. Hedda is not getting the attention she needs and causes distance between her husband Aunt Jo Jo. In this play you have a Judge and he knows all about Hedda and she knows it and she will do whatever in her power to control anybody. Their is also Loveburge in this play and he is a writer like her Husband George and he changed his life from drinking and living a unrighteous life. So now he fits in society and George is afraid that he will come more popular than him. But that was not the case he just want to show off to George. This play is provide us with knowing people background and to determine why a person behave the way they do.
Gullivers Travel
In the book Gulliver's Travel, The author Johnathan Swift creates a different world to make the readers think about the difference of people lifestyles and how to be set apart and define in a group. There is the Yahoo and the Houyhnhnm's that is uses as an example to separate individuals in society if they do not belong in the group. The yahoo is these emotion and feeling types of creatures that looks like monkeys and then you Have the Houyhnhnm's that is human like but is a horse, but they are the proper one's and the one's with reason and logic. Now the main character is Gulliver who travels and is married and stay away from home a lot. Gulliver is in a land with the different creatures but Johnathan Swift wants the readers to see his point how separate and alike people can be when they compare themselves with different groups. Gulliver's Travel is a book that makes the reader to look how they compare themselves with other people and it can be a prejudice behavior. To feel like a person is superior than the other ones. The Yahoos expresses themselves in a emotional way just like some humans and Houyhnhnm's is more reasoning and just because they don't express themselves like the Yahoos they feel like upper class citizen and their way of life is more better.
Frankenstein
In the book Frankenstein, The author Mary Shelly creates a horror story for the readers to relate to the character in the book. Frankenstein is a young man that loves to learn and he challenges himself to do something that never has been done by any human being. The author demonstrate the creator as very intelligent but is naive and knowing how to teach his creation to adapt in society and become afraid of his creation. Frankenstein creates this monster and after everything is finished and the monster come to life he runs from the very thing that he gives life too. Frankenstein is a very complex story that can make the reader look at their own life and relate to the different events that accord. Frankenstein is the one that is the monster he finds different animals that is dead and uses the dead things to create the living. However just because something is dead doesn't mean it can not come to life and Mary Shelly show that if a relationship is dead it ways to make it work.
EMILY DICKINSON! (1129)- morgan peach
Another great poem by Emily.
"Tell all the Truth but tell it slant"(pg.1057).- tell the truth but twist it to spare feelings of others is what i took from this.
"Success in Circuit lies
"Too bright for our inform Delight"(pg.1057).- I wasnt quite clear what to take from this line, I came up with people lie to get to the top and try to weasle their way in as well as tell on everyone for wrong doings.
"The Truth's Superb surpirse"(pg.1057).- the truth about someone or something can surprise us sometimes.
"As lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind"(pg.1058).- People that lie try to explain the reason for their lies and eventually come out with the truth but not before feelings have been hurt. Sometimes instead of wanting to see or know the truth, people look passed it as almost as if they were blind to anything going on around them.
After reading through a few more of Emily Dickinson's poems I realize that none of them are the same or too similar, she doesnt have a running theme to them, in my opinion. Which I love that each one somewhat tells a story in its own way!
"Tell all the Truth but tell it slant"(pg.1057).- tell the truth but twist it to spare feelings of others is what i took from this.
"Success in Circuit lies
"Too bright for our inform Delight"(pg.1057).- I wasnt quite clear what to take from this line, I came up with people lie to get to the top and try to weasle their way in as well as tell on everyone for wrong doings.
"The Truth's Superb surpirse"(pg.1057).- the truth about someone or something can surprise us sometimes.
"As lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind"(pg.1058).- People that lie try to explain the reason for their lies and eventually come out with the truth but not before feelings have been hurt. Sometimes instead of wanting to see or know the truth, people look passed it as almost as if they were blind to anything going on around them.
After reading through a few more of Emily Dickinson's poems I realize that none of them are the same or too similar, she doesnt have a running theme to them, in my opinion. Which I love that each one somewhat tells a story in its own way!
HEDDA G! -morgan peach
Hedda Gabler made this play awesome. She was the character that was trusting but devious, beautiful on the outside ugly on the inside, she was admirable in the fact of marrying George for knowing shed be takin care of and loved. But she loved Loevborg and had many secret affairs with Brack. Shes up class and snooty at times. She an Act all in one, just herself. I did a little digging on other critics thoughts on hedda. None of them were nice or postive!
*A Norwegian critic called her a "monster created by the author in the form of a women who has no counter part in the real world".
*The Danish critic George Brandes found her a "true type of degeneration" who was incapable of yielding herself, body, and soul to the man she loves".
*For Hjalmer Boyeson she was a "complete perversion of womanhood"
*Another response was to classify Hedda as "abnormal or perverted".
^^all of these I found on http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu.
*A Norwegian critic called her a "monster created by the author in the form of a women who has no counter part in the real world".
*The Danish critic George Brandes found her a "true type of degeneration" who was incapable of yielding herself, body, and soul to the man she loves".
*For Hjalmer Boyeson she was a "complete perversion of womanhood"
*Another response was to classify Hedda as "abnormal or perverted".
^^all of these I found on http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu.
EMILY DICKENSON! (341) -morgan peach
Emily Dickenson is probably one of my favorite writers that we have read this semster, aside from reading frankenstien. I love that when reading her poems you can take away not just one opinion from what you have read but different points of view.
"after great pain, a formal feeling comes"(pg.1053) - from this i gathered someone has a broken heart whether it be from a death or a break up.
"the nerves sit ceremonious, like tombs"(1053)- the pain setting in and everything going numb. The point where nothing matters and you dont care about anything at this point.
"the stiff heart questions was it He, that bore,
And Yesterday, or Centuries before?"(pg.1053)-asking why me? why them? why do people have to suffer. why cant there be happiness always?
"The Feet, mechanical, go round.
Of ground, or Air, or Ought.
A wooden way regardless grown,
A Quartz contentment,like a stone" -This is were I came to the realization that this is the point to were a person a realizing that the healing process will not be an easy one and that it will take time.
"First-chill-then stupor-the the letting go"-simply put that they are finally able to let go of the hurt that they have experienced.
Out of all the poems from 216-1593. this one is by far my favorite!
"after great pain, a formal feeling comes"(pg.1053) - from this i gathered someone has a broken heart whether it be from a death or a break up.
"the nerves sit ceremonious, like tombs"(1053)- the pain setting in and everything going numb. The point where nothing matters and you dont care about anything at this point.
"the stiff heart questions was it He, that bore,
And Yesterday, or Centuries before?"(pg.1053)-asking why me? why them? why do people have to suffer. why cant there be happiness always?
"The Feet, mechanical, go round.
Of ground, or Air, or Ought.
A wooden way regardless grown,
A Quartz contentment,like a stone" -This is were I came to the realization that this is the point to were a person a realizing that the healing process will not be an easy one and that it will take time.
"First-chill-then stupor-the the letting go"-simply put that they are finally able to let go of the hurt that they have experienced.
Out of all the poems from 216-1593. this one is by far my favorite!
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Metamophosis
Before Gregor transformed, his life already seemed to be boring. The only thing he cared about was taking care of his family. He didnt have any real relationships, with his family, nor did he have friends. Gregor realized that he was already a bug before his transformation due to the social stature of his life that he had already lived. Most insects have workers that provide for the familie, and thats just what Gregor was doing. Ultimately all he wanted to do was work, because it was an expectation, all the burden was on him, just as when families on insects depend on the worker group. His dedication to work make his family members lazy, which is more of a burden on him. I think the transformation was because he was tired, and couldnt handle the responsibility any longer. No one seems to be concerned, or care for him but his sister, but that soon faded. The real Gregor went away a long time ago, he died when he took up all the families burden of providing for them. His work was the hard outer shell, that seperated him from his family, and changed the way they thought of him
Hedda Gabler
Hedda seemed to be trapped and constrained. She allowed herself to be married to a man that she had no respect for. She protrays herself to be a victim of circumstance trapped in a marriage to a man she does not love and a woman who thinks she is in control of her life. Hedda seems to manipulate the people around her, she tends to make the men around her feel in competent and weak. Hedda wanted to shape a man's destiny by taking control and once she has done that she despises him.
Friday, April 29, 2011
FROM SONG OF MYSELF! -morgan peach
While reading this poem by Walt Whitman, I went back and forth trying to figure out who or what the speaker was. I wanted to read the poem before I read the break down of it and Walt Whitmans work on the pages before. I got a view different vibes as to who the speaker might be and what this poem was truely about. I felt, at first, that this might be an insane asylum or an inmate of some kind because of their thought process throughout the whole thing
. "Has any one supposed it lucky to be born? I hasten to inform him or her it is just as lucky to die, and i know it"(pg.983). Then for a breif moment I thought the speaker could be a higher power of some sort. "I am he that walks with the tender and growing night, i call to the earth and sea half-held by the night"(pg.984). At the end, I came to the conclusion that HE was a middle aged gentlemen and was a very genuine person, very true at heart in what he believed or didnt believe in. He possibly was even waiting on or looking for a long lost lover? Besides being confused at the flip flop of the speaker, I really did enjoy this poem. It was almost as if it were different stories within the same story.
. "Has any one supposed it lucky to be born? I hasten to inform him or her it is just as lucky to die, and i know it"(pg.983). Then for a breif moment I thought the speaker could be a higher power of some sort. "I am he that walks with the tender and growing night, i call to the earth and sea half-held by the night"(pg.984). At the end, I came to the conclusion that HE was a middle aged gentlemen and was a very genuine person, very true at heart in what he believed or didnt believe in. He possibly was even waiting on or looking for a long lost lover? Besides being confused at the flip flop of the speaker, I really did enjoy this poem. It was almost as if it were different stories within the same story.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Why World Lit Is Important - Jade Youngblood
During this hectic semester, we have read many pieces of literature. A few examples are Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift, Frankenstein by Mary Shelly, The Barrelmaker Brimful of Love by Ihara Saikaku, (my favorite of the semester) Hedda Gabler by Henrik Ibsen, The Guest by Albert Camus, and many more. Many people would wonder why this class is necessary for so many majors, but I think it is imperative to a young adult's education.
It is important for our yet developing minds to understand other cultures other than our own. In the United States, it is easy to become obsessed with ourselves and forget that there is an entire world out there. Reading about other countries struggles and customs through literature is a way to expand our appreciation for those other countries.
Without World Lit class, how would we know that China had a cannibal phase in literature? (Just like our vampire phase.) “he said with his very own tongue that is was all right to exchange children and eat them.... but his flesh should be eaten and his skin used as a sleeping mat as well.” (Xun 1924) Or how would we know that people actually can turn into grotesque bugs? “One morning, upon awakening from agitated dreams, Gregor Samsa found himself, in his bed, transformed into a monstrous vermin.” (Kafka 1999)
World literature is also important to expand our vocabulary. Today, teenagers and young adults do not know how to speak properly. (I include myself in this statement.) But, with a willing spirit, these stories will influence our speech and help us transform into adults.
The Guest - Jade Youngblood
I thought The Guest by Albert Camus was a okay story, but it was not my favorite this semester. I do not have any active complaints about it; I just do not think it was outrageously interesting.
The story leaves the reader wanting to know more about the Arab prisoner. The story tells us that he killed a man, “We had been looking for him for a month, but they were hiding him. He killed his cousin.” (2576) The reader wonders why did he kill him? The reader also knows that he killed a family member. Arabian families are very tight knit, so the cousin must have done something horrible or prisoner must be different from his people. The reader also knows that he had ample opportunities to run away, but he chose to stay. “the Arab... closed the door carefully, and came back to bed.” (2580) The last piece of evidence that the reader is given is that he chose prison (which he knew would be death) over freedom. “made out the Arab walking slowly on the road to prison.” (2582) The reader is left to wonder why he chose his own death.
Given all the facts, the reader can assume a few things. First, the prisoner did not want to go home. This could be for many reasons. I think it is because his family is unhappy that he killed his cousin. This would lead to him choosing prison over freedom. The prisoner did not have a home. Plus, he would have to hide out for the rest of his life. If I was in his shoes, I think death would be the more agreeable option too.
The story leaves the reader wanting to know more about the Arab prisoner. The story tells us that he killed a man, “We had been looking for him for a month, but they were hiding him. He killed his cousin.” (2576) The reader wonders why did he kill him? The reader also knows that he killed a family member. Arabian families are very tight knit, so the cousin must have done something horrible or prisoner must be different from his people. The reader also knows that he had ample opportunities to run away, but he chose to stay. “the Arab... closed the door carefully, and came back to bed.” (2580) The last piece of evidence that the reader is given is that he chose prison (which he knew would be death) over freedom. “made out the Arab walking slowly on the road to prison.” (2582) The reader is left to wonder why he chose his own death.
Given all the facts, the reader can assume a few things. First, the prisoner did not want to go home. This could be for many reasons. I think it is because his family is unhappy that he killed his cousin. This would lead to him choosing prison over freedom. The prisoner did not have a home. Plus, he would have to hide out for the rest of his life. If I was in his shoes, I think death would be the more agreeable option too.
J. Alfred Prufrock - Jade Youngblood
When I heard the title The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock by T.S. Eliot, I was expecting a gushy love poem. That is not what I received.
The poem is about a man who wants to marry but he lacks the courage to talk to women. There is a party and he is trying to talk himself into going. One side of his argument is that the women wouldn’t like him anyway, so he shouldn’t waste his time. “And would it have been worth it, after all, after the cups, the marmalade, the tea…” (2078) I know I said different in a previous post, but this storyline is perfect in poem format. If it was in a simple short story, it would have been boring. A couple of theories of mine were verified when we listened to Eliot’s reading of the poem in class.
The first theory is that Eliot is writing about himself. Eliot did actually marry, in 1915, but it was a loveless marriage. He only married Vivienne Haigh-Wood to stay in England; she only married him to help him. (Plus there are rumors that she was having an affair.) When we heard his voice on the audio clip, it sounded so boring. If the man was anything like the voice, it is not hard to figure out why he could only marry for convenience.
The second theory is that the man killed himself. “I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each.” (2078) He went to those mermaids because he thought that they would love him. This thought was debated, but that is my opinion.
The poem is about a man who wants to marry but he lacks the courage to talk to women. There is a party and he is trying to talk himself into going. One side of his argument is that the women wouldn’t like him anyway, so he shouldn’t waste his time. “And would it have been worth it, after all, after the cups, the marmalade, the tea…” (2078) I know I said different in a previous post, but this storyline is perfect in poem format. If it was in a simple short story, it would have been boring. A couple of theories of mine were verified when we listened to Eliot’s reading of the poem in class.
The first theory is that Eliot is writing about himself. Eliot did actually marry, in 1915, but it was a loveless marriage. He only married Vivienne Haigh-Wood to stay in England; she only married him to help him. (Plus there are rumors that she was having an affair.) When we heard his voice on the audio clip, it sounded so boring. If the man was anything like the voice, it is not hard to figure out why he could only marry for convenience.
The second theory is that the man killed himself. “I shall wear white flannel trousers, and walk upon the beach. I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each.” (2078) He went to those mermaids because he thought that they would love him. This thought was debated, but that is my opinion.
The Metamorphosis - Jade Youngblood
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka features a man named Gregor Samasa who wakes up one morning as a bug. Not a small, true-life size bug, but a huge, bigger-than-human size bug. The only point of view we receive is that of Gregor until the end when he is dead. When I first read this story, I was furious with Gregor’s family. How could they take advantage of him? Making him work so hard while they stayed at home all day? But the class discussion revealed different thoughts that also made sense.
The first thought was maybe Gregor liked taking care of his family. “whatever he could to make the family forget as quickly as possible the business catastrophe that had plunged them all into utter despair.” (2013) He wanted to send his sister to a conservatory. “But Gregor’s ideas on the subject were very definite and he intended to make the solemn announcement on Christmas Eve.” (2013) He needed to feel needed. Many people are like this. They have a void if they are not helping someone.
The second thought that was brought to my attention is that in the past, children did take care of their parents when the parents got older. This was hard to remember because it is so different today. I know that in some cases, people do take care of their elderly parents, but overall, they do not. Because people are waiting to get married and have children, they are still raising their children when it is time for their parents to need assistance. I admit, my view on the matter may be tinted since I worked in a nursing home for a while.
The first thought was maybe Gregor liked taking care of his family. “whatever he could to make the family forget as quickly as possible the business catastrophe that had plunged them all into utter despair.” (2013) He wanted to send his sister to a conservatory. “But Gregor’s ideas on the subject were very definite and he intended to make the solemn announcement on Christmas Eve.” (2013) He needed to feel needed. Many people are like this. They have a void if they are not helping someone.
The second thought that was brought to my attention is that in the past, children did take care of their parents when the parents got older. This was hard to remember because it is so different today. I know that in some cases, people do take care of their elderly parents, but overall, they do not. Because people are waiting to get married and have children, they are still raising their children when it is time for their parents to need assistance. I admit, my view on the matter may be tinted since I worked in a nursing home for a while.
Madman - Jade Youngblood
Diary of a Madman by Lu Xun was different to say the least. I really enjoyed the way the short story was set up. The narrator is reading the diary to the reader. I think it adds a little more interest to the story.
I understand that cannibalism was a part of Chinese literature, but I still cannot get over the topic of this short story. The story begins with the “madman” noticing the beauty in the moonlight. The story does not tell us if he has always been a “madman” or if this is a recent change in behavior. “Haven’t seen it in over thirty years. Seeing it today, I feel like a new man.” (1921) This statement makes me think that, in his mind at least, his insanity has helped him reach clarity. I guess he thinks that he was blinded by conformity for the first thirty years of his life.
The second chapter of the story also begins with the mention of the moonlight. This night, there is no moonlight. I think this gives distress to the “madman” because he states, “something’s not quite right.” (1921) It seems like the entire, for the lack of a better word, vibe is off because there is no moon. Like the “madman” needs the moon to have a good day. The story continues with the “madman” trapped in a room. He is convinced that everyone is a cannibal. It ends with the lonesome cry, “Save the children…” (1929)
My only complaint about this story is it never tells us how the “madman” become sane again.
I understand that cannibalism was a part of Chinese literature, but I still cannot get over the topic of this short story. The story begins with the “madman” noticing the beauty in the moonlight. The story does not tell us if he has always been a “madman” or if this is a recent change in behavior. “Haven’t seen it in over thirty years. Seeing it today, I feel like a new man.” (1921) This statement makes me think that, in his mind at least, his insanity has helped him reach clarity. I guess he thinks that he was blinded by conformity for the first thirty years of his life.
The second chapter of the story also begins with the mention of the moonlight. This night, there is no moonlight. I think this gives distress to the “madman” because he states, “something’s not quite right.” (1921) It seems like the entire, for the lack of a better word, vibe is off because there is no moon. Like the “madman” needs the moon to have a good day. The story continues with the “madman” trapped in a room. He is convinced that everyone is a cannibal. It ends with the lonesome cry, “Save the children…” (1929)
My only complaint about this story is it never tells us how the “madman” become sane again.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Metamorphosis
It can be said that at some point in life one goes through a metamorphosis. A metamorphosis can be physical, mental, or spiritual to name a few. The metamorphosis that took place in the story "The Metamorphosis" took it to a new level of metamorphosis.
The metamorphosis Gregor went through was clearly more than anyone should have to handle. The weird thing was that he wanted to call to work to let them know he was not going to be at work that day he went to the metamorphosis, but he did not call because he did not want someone to from work to come check on him. Gregor thought to himself, "But that would be extremely embarrasing and suspect, for throughout his five years with the firm he had never been sick once." (Kafka 2000). Clearly Gregor takes his job seriously, very seriously indeed. He seems to be more worried about not being at work than he is about the fact that he is now an insect and no longer the man that he was.
Gregor was nothing but completely caught up in his job as a traveling salesman. He spends his time working and providing for his family. He has been providing for his family since his father's business closed. His family consists of him, his father, mother, and little sister. It could be speculated that Gregor spent way to much time working and not enough time doing things he wanted to do, and this proved costly to his health. Working as much as he did stressed him out to the point where he was unhealthy, and it could very well be what turned him into an insect. Gregor even thought to himself, "Getting up so early all the time, makes you totally stupid." (Kafka 2000). Gregor himself is now beginning to realize the way he has been living is indeed turning him stupid.
One could say that this story is a lesson about why working to hard and too often can be a negative thing. It is easy to see that Gregor is the example in this story. He worked so hard and tried so hard for his family, but they did not appreciate him as much as they should have. The stress, the hard work, and the little appreciation he received, ended up ruining Gregor and it ultimately led to his demise.
The metamorphosis Gregor went through was clearly more than anyone should have to handle. The weird thing was that he wanted to call to work to let them know he was not going to be at work that day he went to the metamorphosis, but he did not call because he did not want someone to from work to come check on him. Gregor thought to himself, "But that would be extremely embarrasing and suspect, for throughout his five years with the firm he had never been sick once." (Kafka 2000). Clearly Gregor takes his job seriously, very seriously indeed. He seems to be more worried about not being at work than he is about the fact that he is now an insect and no longer the man that he was.
Gregor was nothing but completely caught up in his job as a traveling salesman. He spends his time working and providing for his family. He has been providing for his family since his father's business closed. His family consists of him, his father, mother, and little sister. It could be speculated that Gregor spent way to much time working and not enough time doing things he wanted to do, and this proved costly to his health. Working as much as he did stressed him out to the point where he was unhealthy, and it could very well be what turned him into an insect. Gregor even thought to himself, "Getting up so early all the time, makes you totally stupid." (Kafka 2000). Gregor himself is now beginning to realize the way he has been living is indeed turning him stupid.
One could say that this story is a lesson about why working to hard and too often can be a negative thing. It is easy to see that Gregor is the example in this story. He worked so hard and tried so hard for his family, but they did not appreciate him as much as they should have. The stress, the hard work, and the little appreciation he received, ended up ruining Gregor and it ultimately led to his demise.
Hedda Gabler Tragedy 2
The tragedy that occurred at the end of Hedda Gabler, the tragedy of Eilert Loevborg's death, was viewed by a few characters as a mystery. One could certainly question whether or not it was a indeed a mystery. Perhaps it was not a mystery. Perhaps someone knew secrets about the death that no one else did. It sure did seem as though someone did indeed know certain details about the death that other characters in the story did not know about. The character with knowledge about the death was appear to be none other than Hedda Gabler.
Hedda gives herself away on this one. Whenever questions arise about what happened to Eilert Loevborg, she seems to know, or have a clue about what might have happened to him. It is apparent that she knows something when Tesman asks, "He hasn't tried to do anything to himself? What?" (Isben 1513). Hedda replies to Tesman's question and says, "Yes, he has. I'm sure of it." (Isben 1513). At this point it is clear that Hedda knows about his death although no one around her has told her anything about it. The conversation about his death continues and Tesman says, "Attempted suicide! Fancy that!" (Isben 1513). After Tesman makes this comment Hedda replies, "Shot himself!" (Isben 1513). Brack replies to Hedda saying, "Right again Mrs. Tesman." (Isben 1513). In Brack's reply, it seems as though he is noticing a trend in the conversation, and that trend is that Hedda knows more than anyone else in the room. Then once it is mentioned that Loevborg shot himself in the breast Hedda replies, "Not in the head?" (Isben 1513). After it is clarified that the shot was indeed in the chest she replies, "The breast. Yes;yes. That's good, too." (Isben 1513). She says this as if to reassure herself that this is a noble, courageous thing for Loevborg to do. Later on Hedda finds out that Loevborg had actually shot himself in the stomach, which she did not seem to deem courageous. It seemed as though now that she knew he shot himself in the stomach she was not impressed, and she was somewhat disappointed. It is safe to say she is somewhat disgusting to not grieve his death and to wish he had died a more courageous death. This goes to show what kind of person Hedda Gabler was.
Hedda gives herself away on this one. Whenever questions arise about what happened to Eilert Loevborg, she seems to know, or have a clue about what might have happened to him. It is apparent that she knows something when Tesman asks, "He hasn't tried to do anything to himself? What?" (Isben 1513). Hedda replies to Tesman's question and says, "Yes, he has. I'm sure of it." (Isben 1513). At this point it is clear that Hedda knows about his death although no one around her has told her anything about it. The conversation about his death continues and Tesman says, "Attempted suicide! Fancy that!" (Isben 1513). After Tesman makes this comment Hedda replies, "Shot himself!" (Isben 1513). Brack replies to Hedda saying, "Right again Mrs. Tesman." (Isben 1513). In Brack's reply, it seems as though he is noticing a trend in the conversation, and that trend is that Hedda knows more than anyone else in the room. Then once it is mentioned that Loevborg shot himself in the breast Hedda replies, "Not in the head?" (Isben 1513). After it is clarified that the shot was indeed in the chest she replies, "The breast. Yes;yes. That's good, too." (Isben 1513). She says this as if to reassure herself that this is a noble, courageous thing for Loevborg to do. Later on Hedda finds out that Loevborg had actually shot himself in the stomach, which she did not seem to deem courageous. It seemed as though now that she knew he shot himself in the stomach she was not impressed, and she was somewhat disappointed. It is safe to say she is somewhat disgusting to not grieve his death and to wish he had died a more courageous death. This goes to show what kind of person Hedda Gabler was.
Hedda Gabler Tragedy
In Hedda Gabler there is much confusion and disarray towards the end of the story. This is mainly because of the death at the end of the story that came at the worst time; especially the way in which the death took place, because there could never be a good time for a death like that. The death came after a night of partying, where everyone seemed to be having a good time. One could say that the stress of the book he was writing got to Mr. Loevborg. That stress could have led him to take him own life.
The death of Eilert Loevborg touched the lives of all the characters in the story. Eilert Loevborg's death touched some more than others. He and Mrs. Elvsted had a close relationship before he passed away. Mrs. Elvsted seemed to have a deep love for Mr. Loevborg, and it was apparent that she would miss him greatly and that she was hurt immensly by his passing away. As soon as Mrs. Elvsted got the news that he might be in trouble she starting screaming, "Oh God, God!" (Isben 1513). The death of Eilert Loevborg clearly shocked Mrs. Elvsted, and it also hurt her. Mrs. Elvsted felt bad about his death and somewhat guilty. While she was weeping and talking to Hedda she said, "Oh, Hedda! And we parted enemies." (Ibsen 1513). Mrs. Elvsted did not know that Hedda gave Eilert Loevborg the gun that ended up taking his life. One could imagine that if Mrs. Elvsted knew Hedda had done this, she may very well have tried to take Hedda's life in revenge for Loevborg's death.
It can only be speculated as to why exactly
The death of Eilert Loevborg touched the lives of all the characters in the story. Eilert Loevborg's death touched some more than others. He and Mrs. Elvsted had a close relationship before he passed away. Mrs. Elvsted seemed to have a deep love for Mr. Loevborg, and it was apparent that she would miss him greatly and that she was hurt immensly by his passing away. As soon as Mrs. Elvsted got the news that he might be in trouble she starting screaming, "Oh God, God!" (Isben 1513). The death of Eilert Loevborg clearly shocked Mrs. Elvsted, and it also hurt her. Mrs. Elvsted felt bad about his death and somewhat guilty. While she was weeping and talking to Hedda she said, "Oh, Hedda! And we parted enemies." (Ibsen 1513). Mrs. Elvsted did not know that Hedda gave Eilert Loevborg the gun that ended up taking his life. One could imagine that if Mrs. Elvsted knew Hedda had done this, she may very well have tried to take Hedda's life in revenge for Loevborg's death.
It can only be speculated as to why exactly
The Metamorphosis
Frank Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, I would put in the category of unusual. A man who wakes up as an insect. In my eyes that is very unusual. “ One morning upon wakening from agitated dreams, George Samsa found himself, in his bed, transformed into a monstrous vermin. HE lay on his hard, armor like back, and when lifting his head slightly, he could view his brown, vaulted belly portioned by arching ridges,” (Kafka 1999.)
Gregor Samsa was a hardworking man, who after his father’s business suffered too works himself to support his family. His family consisted of him, his mother, father, sister, and their maid. I found it hard to understand why the father didn’t get another job and try to assist his family and not have all the responsibility on his son.
Gregor was so hardworking that the morning he became the insect he waned to call in but was scared that they would have someone come in to check on him. When Gregor became the insect the family was scared wasn’t too sure what had actually taken place. His parents and sister try to check on him he lets them know he is ok, but they were unable to understand what he was saying.
Gregor father lets him know that “ the office manager has come to inquire why you didn’t catch the early train. We have no idea what to tell him. Besides he would like to speak with you personally” (Kafka 2003 The office manager is frightened by what he sees and runs away.
Throughout this entire metamorphosis Gregor was being taken care of by his family, but mostly his sister. Time went on and the care stopped. Gregor then dies. The family leaves him and decides to pack up and venture out. They realize they are in need of money and all try to get jobs. They see the future that is in the sister who plays the violin and see what they say in Gregor; their meal ticket.
Fredrick Douglas! Morgan Peach
When I read the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass An American Slave, I was very moved by it. Going through grade school we always read stories or did papers on Harriet Tubman or Rosa Parks along with other former slaves or even the slave owners. We always did extra activities during black history month. But when reading this, it really cought my attention, I had never read a story and it be that discriptive of what that person saw, what a person heard, what they had to go through, and what they missed out on. Everyone always heard that a slave wasnt allowed to learn to read and write unless they did it secretly, because "Reading would forever unfit them to be slaves"(pg.921). I never realized that a lot of them never knew who their mother or even father was, they never knew who any of their family was for that matter, and some of them never even knew their own birthday or how old they were, even what their name was. Some slaves believe it or not, got off luckily, or as lucky as they could get. Such as Fredrick, "He defies his brutal overseer, claims his manhood, teaches fellow slaves to read: finally as though by magic, he escapes" (pg.922). His story was filled with turmoil and greif and sadness, but he cut away from all that and went to school, got a degree, made speeches, and truely became a very profound and well rounded man despite what his upbringing was. That just goes to show that no matter where any of us came from, what we went through in childhood, that we dont have to let any of that guess us down, but only let it make us stronger as individuals!
Monday, April 25, 2011
The Guest 2.
In our class discussion over the story The Guest, we discussed the isolation Daru went through. It seems as though he hinted that he loved the isolation and found enjoyment in it. I found this to be somewhat interesting. What did I do? I did what I do often, I decided to do some research.
According to researchers “Loneliness is a universal human emotion, yet it is both complex and unique to each individual. While common definitions of loneliness describe it as a state of solitude or being alone, loneliness is actually a state of mind.” about.psychology.com) (
Daru lived in the schoolhouse alone. Even author Camus describes the place as the “frigid classroom” (Camus 2574.) He was accustomed to being alone. I felt that Daru felt a little annoyed when the two came, and he was given the task of taking the man and turning him in. Daru was being taken out of his element, and didn’t seem to like it. Although while there Daru respected the man, and showed kindness and cared for him, he was uncomfortable. It was like he was craving his time alone. It seems it was use to being alone so I it was like second nature to him.
Also according to the website “People who are lonely often crave human contact, but their state of mind makes it more difficult to form connections with other people. Maybe Daru wanted a companion but felt as if it was hard to connect with the them, or maybe he just didn’t want to.” (about.psychology.com)
Saturday, April 23, 2011
The Guest
Daru made it clear that he wanted no part in delivering the Arab to meet his judgment. Before he was aware of what crime was committed by the Arab he told Balducci that it wasn’t his job to deliver prisoners. After inquiring as to what crime was committed by the Arab, he firmly declares that he will not deliver him.
Daru inquires about the nature of the crime committed by the Arab. ““After all,” he said, turning around toward Balducci, “what did he do?” And before the gendarme had opened his mouth, he asked “Does he speak French?”
“No not a word. We had been looking for him for a month, but they were hiding him. He killed his cousin.”” (Camus 2576). After learning that the Arab had killed his cousin, which led him to his present circumstance, Daru asks “Is he against us?” (Camus 2576) I’m not able to come to a conclusion as to what the meaning of this choice of question is. It almost seems like Daru has nearly dismissed the fact that the Arab has killed a man, and is more concerned about whether he is a rebel. On the other hand, he could be asking the question because he’s learned that the Arab has killed, and is wondering if he should feel threatened himself.
Balducci tells Daru the details of the murder, saying that “In short, he killed his cousin with a billhook.” (Camus 2577). “Daru felt a sudden wrath against the man, against all men with their rotten spite, their tireless hates, their blood lust” (Camus 2577). In spite of this, he still holds firm on his declaration that he will not deliver the prisoner. He even mentions the fact that he was annoyed at the fact that the Arab was stupid enough to get caught.
Daru inquires about the nature of the crime committed by the Arab. ““After all,” he said, turning around toward Balducci, “what did he do?” And before the gendarme had opened his mouth, he asked “Does he speak French?”
“No not a word. We had been looking for him for a month, but they were hiding him. He killed his cousin.”” (Camus 2576). After learning that the Arab had killed his cousin, which led him to his present circumstance, Daru asks “Is he against us?” (Camus 2576) I’m not able to come to a conclusion as to what the meaning of this choice of question is. It almost seems like Daru has nearly dismissed the fact that the Arab has killed a man, and is more concerned about whether he is a rebel. On the other hand, he could be asking the question because he’s learned that the Arab has killed, and is wondering if he should feel threatened himself.
Balducci tells Daru the details of the murder, saying that “In short, he killed his cousin with a billhook.” (Camus 2577). “Daru felt a sudden wrath against the man, against all men with their rotten spite, their tireless hates, their blood lust” (Camus 2577). In spite of this, he still holds firm on his declaration that he will not deliver the prisoner. He even mentions the fact that he was annoyed at the fact that the Arab was stupid enough to get caught.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Diary of a Madman
I’ve gone over and over Diary of a Madman, trying to read between the lines and make a sensible explanation of the text and the real issues that it eludes to. What I’ve come down to is this…find out what someone else thinks.
The story condemns the oppressive nature of Chinese Confucian culture as a "man-eating" society where the strong devour the weak. The madman's reading of ancient texts to discover evidence of cannibalism is a parody of traditional Confucian scholarship. In a sense, the madman is a rebel and social critic whose madness is a kind of sanity. The story reveals Lu Xun's interest in changing society -- in converting people from "cannibalism" to a higher level of humanity. http://fajardo-acosta.com/worldlit/luxun/diary.htm
I have a little knowledge of Confucian teachings, but not nearly enough to analyze this story and identify the relationship between the two. I do know that the collection of Confucian teachings is called the Analects, and that is was a hierarchical structure of society. There is a ruler and a subject. Similarly, there is the husband and wife, father and son, older brother and younger brother, etc. Instead, I did a little reading on others who have analyzed it, and tried to understand the comparisons made by them.
One thing that I did find interesting in the beginning of the story was the use of the name “Mr. Antiquity”. “The only thing I can think of is that twenty years ago I trampled the account books kept by Mr. Antiquity, and he was hopping mad about it too” (Lu Xun 1921). “Probably decided to right the injustice I had done Mr. Antiquity by getting all those people on the street to gang up on me” ( Lu Xun 1921). I thought that was an odd name for a Chinaman. Antiquity is defined as the far distant past, therefore, I think Antiquity is used as a reference to Confucianism.
The story condemns the oppressive nature of Chinese Confucian culture as a "man-eating" society where the strong devour the weak. The madman's reading of ancient texts to discover evidence of cannibalism is a parody of traditional Confucian scholarship. In a sense, the madman is a rebel and social critic whose madness is a kind of sanity. The story reveals Lu Xun's interest in changing society -- in converting people from "cannibalism" to a higher level of humanity. http://fajardo-acosta.com/worldlit/luxun/diary.htm
I have a little knowledge of Confucian teachings, but not nearly enough to analyze this story and identify the relationship between the two. I do know that the collection of Confucian teachings is called the Analects, and that is was a hierarchical structure of society. There is a ruler and a subject. Similarly, there is the husband and wife, father and son, older brother and younger brother, etc. Instead, I did a little reading on others who have analyzed it, and tried to understand the comparisons made by them.
One thing that I did find interesting in the beginning of the story was the use of the name “Mr. Antiquity”. “The only thing I can think of is that twenty years ago I trampled the account books kept by Mr. Antiquity, and he was hopping mad about it too” (Lu Xun 1921). “Probably decided to right the injustice I had done Mr. Antiquity by getting all those people on the street to gang up on me” ( Lu Xun 1921). I thought that was an odd name for a Chinaman. Antiquity is defined as the far distant past, therefore, I think Antiquity is used as a reference to Confucianism.
Extra Credit Theme Song for Frankenstein
Kanye West - Monster (feat. Jay-Z & Nicki Minaj) - Official Music Video
WARNING EXPLICIT LYRICS!
Please do not be offended by this song.
This should give every one something to comment on.
WARNING EXPLICIT LYRICS!
Please do not be offended by this song.
This should give every one something to comment on.
The Metamorphosis
As I reviewed the Story a second time, I’ve come to realize another small detail about Gregor that tells us a little more about his character. As we all know, Gregor was a traveling salesman. He supported his entire family, and received little gratitude for his efforts. Never the less, he didn’t let it stop him from bringing home the bacon. He worked most of the time, and didn’t take much leisure time for himself. It is apparent in the story that he favors his younger sister over the rest of the family. He was looking very forward to announcing that he would be sending her to the musical school.
What I just realized, however is that Gregor desperately wanted a female companion for himself. He actually fantasized about it. After he awakens to discover he is a bug, we’re provided with a description of his sleeping quarters. “Above the table, on which a line of fabric samples had been unpacked and spread out, hung the picture that he had recently clipped from an illustrated magazine and inserted in a pretty gilt frame. The picture showed a lady sitting there upright, bedizened in a fur hat and fur boa, with her entire forearm vanishing inside a heavy fur muff that she held out toward the viewer” ( Kafka 1999). The first time I read this I didn’t suspect anything unusual about it, but it really is not normal to clip a picture of a woman out of a magazine and frame it.
This picture is also the first thing Gregor tries to save when his sister and mother start removing furniture form his room. “And so while the women were in the next room, leaning against the desk to catch their breath, he broke out, changing direction four times, for he was truly at a loss about what to rescue first-when he saw the picture of the woman clad in nothing but furs hanging blatantly on the otherwise empty wall. He quickly scrambled to it and squeezed against the glass, which held him fast, soothing his hot belly. At least with Gregor now covering it up, this picture would certainly not be carried off by anyone” (Kafka 2018).
What I just realized, however is that Gregor desperately wanted a female companion for himself. He actually fantasized about it. After he awakens to discover he is a bug, we’re provided with a description of his sleeping quarters. “Above the table, on which a line of fabric samples had been unpacked and spread out, hung the picture that he had recently clipped from an illustrated magazine and inserted in a pretty gilt frame. The picture showed a lady sitting there upright, bedizened in a fur hat and fur boa, with her entire forearm vanishing inside a heavy fur muff that she held out toward the viewer” ( Kafka 1999). The first time I read this I didn’t suspect anything unusual about it, but it really is not normal to clip a picture of a woman out of a magazine and frame it.
This picture is also the first thing Gregor tries to save when his sister and mother start removing furniture form his room. “And so while the women were in the next room, leaning against the desk to catch their breath, he broke out, changing direction four times, for he was truly at a loss about what to rescue first-when he saw the picture of the woman clad in nothing but furs hanging blatantly on the otherwise empty wall. He quickly scrambled to it and squeezed against the glass, which held him fast, soothing his hot belly. At least with Gregor now covering it up, this picture would certainly not be carried off by anyone” (Kafka 2018).
The Metamorphosis
Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis” is a very bazaar story, to say the least. I found it almost disturbing, not just because of the visuals that the author depicts, but more so, the fact that Gregor is so accepting of his condition. “One morning, upon awakening from agitated dreams, Gregor Samsa found himself, in his bed, transformed into a monstrous vermin” (Kafka 1999). This is the opening line of the story. One would be well justified to have a panic attack, or nervous breakdown, or some other sort of mental crisis upon such a discovery of himself. Instead, he looks to the window and is depressed by the dismal weather. The book tells us “it was no dream”, but it doesn’t specify at that point whether Gregor was stating that it wasn’t a dream, or just clarifying that point to the reader. It doesn’t take very long at all to realize that Gregor does not think he’s dreaming. “What if I slept a little more and forgot all about this nonsense” (Kafka 1999).
This odd reaction to his condition suggests that Gregor’s transformation into a bug is actually a metaphor. He wakes up one day and doesn’t like what he sees, but it’s not necessarily a surprise to him. He wants to just go back to sleep and try to forget about what he’s become. I would say that he is probably very overweight. “He lay on his hard, armor like back, and when lifting his head slightly, he could view his brown, vaulted belly partitioned by arching ridges, while on top of it, the blanket, about to slide off altogether, could barely hold” (Kafka 1999).
This odd reaction to his condition suggests that Gregor’s transformation into a bug is actually a metaphor. He wakes up one day and doesn’t like what he sees, but it’s not necessarily a surprise to him. He wants to just go back to sleep and try to forget about what he’s become. I would say that he is probably very overweight. “He lay on his hard, armor like back, and when lifting his head slightly, he could view his brown, vaulted belly partitioned by arching ridges, while on top of it, the blanket, about to slide off altogether, could barely hold” (Kafka 1999).
The Metamorphosis
Kafka's The Metamorphosis as a silent film, anime-style adventure, creepy s
ex romp, and Bollywood film. Thursday, April 21, 2011
Final Paper Assignment
I have emailed the paper assignment to those who provided me with emails. However, I have already had one bounce back. I have posted the assignment in Blackboard, so if you didn't get an email, you can find the details of the assignment there.
Please note that instead of one longer essay on three fragments, I have broken it down into 3 smaller essays - one each for each fragment.
Let me know if you have questions.
CKB
Please note that instead of one longer essay on three fragments, I have broken it down into 3 smaller essays - one each for each fragment.
Let me know if you have questions.
CKB
Hedda Gabler - Jade Youngblood
I thought Hedda Gabler was a very interesting play. I would like to analyze the character Hedda in order to understand her better.
Hedda Gabler is the General’s daughter. She is accustomed to the luxuries in life and she expects to get everything that she wants. She marries George Tesman because, “It was more than my other admirers were prepared to do, Judge dear.” (1484) Although it does not come right out and say it, Hedda was a very promiscuous woman. It is made very clear that she had an affair with Judge Brack before she got married. “What fun to be able to see you by daylight for once, Judge.” (1478) I also believe that she slept with Loevborg as well. There was a difference between the two men though. Hedda loved Loevborg, or at least Loevborg loved Hedda. “Something stands between Eilert Loevborg and me. The shadow of another woman.” (1477) I think Hedda pushed Loevborg away because her father would never approve. I also believe that she burned the manuscript because she was jealous of Mrs. Elvsted and Loevborg’s relationship. (She was also jealous of Mrs. Elvsted’s hair.)
I can respect Hedda for not cheating on Tesman when Brack gave her an entryway. I think that gives her some honor. I do think it was wrong of her to marry Tesman just to marry someone. I know the times were different, but marrying to avoid being an old maid is cruel to a man. I don’t think she made Tesman buy the house with cruel intentions. “Well, to help him out of his misery, I happened to say quite frivolously how much I’d love to live in this house.” (1486) She was just trying to make up conversation; it wasn’t malicious.
I feel a little bad for Hedda. The time period in which she lived was tough for women. First, she was under the control of her father. She thinks that she finally broke free by marrying the pushover Tesman, but circumstances give Brack power over her. She was so hopeless that she can’t see any other escape other than death. How sad.
Hedda Gabler is the General’s daughter. She is accustomed to the luxuries in life and she expects to get everything that she wants. She marries George Tesman because, “It was more than my other admirers were prepared to do, Judge dear.” (1484) Although it does not come right out and say it, Hedda was a very promiscuous woman. It is made very clear that she had an affair with Judge Brack before she got married. “What fun to be able to see you by daylight for once, Judge.” (1478) I also believe that she slept with Loevborg as well. There was a difference between the two men though. Hedda loved Loevborg, or at least Loevborg loved Hedda. “Something stands between Eilert Loevborg and me. The shadow of another woman.” (1477) I think Hedda pushed Loevborg away because her father would never approve. I also believe that she burned the manuscript because she was jealous of Mrs. Elvsted and Loevborg’s relationship. (She was also jealous of Mrs. Elvsted’s hair.)
I can respect Hedda for not cheating on Tesman when Brack gave her an entryway. I think that gives her some honor. I do think it was wrong of her to marry Tesman just to marry someone. I know the times were different, but marrying to avoid being an old maid is cruel to a man. I don’t think she made Tesman buy the house with cruel intentions. “Well, to help him out of his misery, I happened to say quite frivolously how much I’d love to live in this house.” (1486) She was just trying to make up conversation; it wasn’t malicious.
I feel a little bad for Hedda. The time period in which she lived was tough for women. First, she was under the control of her father. She thinks that she finally broke free by marrying the pushover Tesman, but circumstances give Brack power over her. She was so hopeless that she can’t see any other escape other than death. How sad.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Guest
The Guest is an interesting story with much to think about, even though the story is not very long. The author Albert Camus made a very interesting short without a whole lot of words. The story starts off with the schoolmaster, Daru, watching a couple of men traveling towards him. This was possibly somewhat exciting to him since he had seen no one recently. The man who came to see him was a man named Balducci. Balducci brought him a slave, an Arab, who was to be taken to the police. Balducci told Daru a few minutes after their arrival that Daru must, "deliver this fellow to Tinguit. He is expected at police headquarters." (Camus 2576). Daru was shocked by this. Daru even went as far as asking Balducci, "Are you pulling my leg?" (Camus 2576). Daru clearly thought this was a misunderstanding, and he did not want any part of this task. Is seems as though Daru thought that the man did not deserve to be turned over to the police, although he understood that the prisoner had killed a man.
One might assume that Daru did not deem it loyal to bind a man and carry him to prison. It does not seem likely that Daru was simply lazy and did not want to complete the task given to him. It also though he saw something in the prisoner, something that made Daru think that the prisoner was harmless and undeserving of this punishment he was about to face.
Daru seemed to trust the prisoner the day he met him. Balducci offered Daru a pistol for protection and Daru replied saying, "Keep it." (Camus 2577). Daru did end up taking the gun, but he did not keep it by his bedside the night that the prisoner stayed with him.
One might assume that Daru did not deem it loyal to bind a man and carry him to prison. It does not seem likely that Daru was simply lazy and did not want to complete the task given to him. It also though he saw something in the prisoner, something that made Daru think that the prisoner was harmless and undeserving of this punishment he was about to face.
Daru seemed to trust the prisoner the day he met him. Balducci offered Daru a pistol for protection and Daru replied saying, "Keep it." (Camus 2577). Daru did end up taking the gun, but he did not keep it by his bedside the night that the prisoner stayed with him.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Hedda Gabler
This was definitely an interesting play. Close attention must be paid to detail, in order to get a true understanding of the characters. Hedda comes off as a very cold and cynical person, but she does it in such a way that in the opening act, it could be easily be mistaken and leave the reader in confusion.
I finished reading the play on my own, and was still a little unsure of exactly what happened, and why. I knew that Eilert Loveborg had died, but I was a little uncertain as to whether or not he had shot himself with the pistol, given to him by Hedda. I was also curious if Hedda was indeed encouraging Loveborg to commit suicide.
After discussing the play in class, and hearing the interpretations from other people, I got a much clearer picture of the events that were taking place in the play. Hedda was obviously thinking that Loveborg would go to such an extreme when she came into possession of the manuscript and decided to burn it. We know now that Eilert’s intentions were to end his life, but it was not quite so apparent when he told Hedda that he’d lost the manuscript. Loveborg: “Well then you must also understand that she and I cannot possibly ever see each other again.” Hedda: “Where will you go?” Loveborg: “Nowhere. I just want to put an end to it all. As soon as possible.” Hedda: “Eilert Loveborg, listen to me. Do it beautifully (Ibsen 1508). It seems that Hedda is prepared to push Eilert to suicide before we even realize that he has decided to kill himself
I finished reading the play on my own, and was still a little unsure of exactly what happened, and why. I knew that Eilert Loveborg had died, but I was a little uncertain as to whether or not he had shot himself with the pistol, given to him by Hedda. I was also curious if Hedda was indeed encouraging Loveborg to commit suicide.
After discussing the play in class, and hearing the interpretations from other people, I got a much clearer picture of the events that were taking place in the play. Hedda was obviously thinking that Loveborg would go to such an extreme when she came into possession of the manuscript and decided to burn it. We know now that Eilert’s intentions were to end his life, but it was not quite so apparent when he told Hedda that he’d lost the manuscript. Loveborg: “Well then you must also understand that she and I cannot possibly ever see each other again.” Hedda: “Where will you go?” Loveborg: “Nowhere. I just want to put an end to it all. As soon as possible.” Hedda: “Eilert Loveborg, listen to me. Do it beautifully (Ibsen 1508). It seems that Hedda is prepared to push Eilert to suicide before we even realize that he has decided to kill himself
Hedda Gabbler 2.
Throughout the semester we have red various stories. Stories such as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, The Narrative Of Frederick Douglas, and Lu Xun’s Diary of a Madman.
My favorite story that we have read is Hedda Gabbler. Hedda Gabbler is a story that deals with power, infidelity, neglect, “ Yes. I often longed for a third person while I was away. Oh, those hours we spent alone in railway compartments.” and death “She shot herself! Shot herself in the head!” (Ibsen, 1518.) all which as the makings of a good soap opera. Soap operas take stories and fantasies of lives and turn them into entertainment. Entertainment that is hard to turn away from. Tey are very addictive. Soap operas are made to entertain and this story did just that. It kept me interested, made me upset, and I hated it ended the way it did.
Throughout the story as I was reading I often compared Hedda the main character to Victor Newman who is a popular character on the CBS soap opera The Young and The Restless. Like Hedda, Victor is a man who has the most control, power, and leverage over a lot of the residents in Genoa City. The main difference I saw in the two was I liked Victor and Hedda is someone I was not a fan of. The control she had over others she used in her own advantage and wa very selfish about it.
I here by support any efforts to turn this story into a soap opera, and hopefully like Young and the Restless it will remain on televisions for a long time.
Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass, An American Slave
Fredrick Douglass talks of Captain Auld being “destitute of every element of character commanding respect” (Douglass 946). This is an interesting moment for me in the narrative because, as he goes on to describe the particularly harsh ways of Captain Auld, he pauses to point out a specific date and event that takes place. This turns out to be a topic of particular discussion, and in fact, is further discussed in the appendix. “In August, 1832, my master attended a Methodist camp-meeting held in the Bay-side, Talbot county, and there experienced religion. Indulged in a faint hope that his conversion would lead him to emancipate his slaves, and that, if he did not do this, it would, at any rate, make him more kind and humane” (Douglass 947).
Douglass’ only experience with religion is through the practices of his slave holders, and through simple observation, he takes notice to the more savage actions taken by the religious slave holders, as compared to the non-religious ones. Douglass explains in the appendix exactly what his views are on religion. “What I have said respecting and against religion, I mean strictly to apply to the slaveholding religion of this land, and with no possible reference to Christianity proper; for, between the Christianity of this land, and the Christianity of Christ, I recognize the widest possible difference-so wide, that to receive the one as good, pure, and holy, is of necessity to reject the other as bad, corrupt, and wicked. To be the friend of the one, is of necessity to be the enemy of the other” (Douglass 976).
Douglass’ only experience with religion is through the practices of his slave holders, and through simple observation, he takes notice to the more savage actions taken by the religious slave holders, as compared to the non-religious ones. Douglass explains in the appendix exactly what his views are on religion. “What I have said respecting and against religion, I mean strictly to apply to the slaveholding religion of this land, and with no possible reference to Christianity proper; for, between the Christianity of this land, and the Christianity of Christ, I recognize the widest possible difference-so wide, that to receive the one as good, pure, and holy, is of necessity to reject the other as bad, corrupt, and wicked. To be the friend of the one, is of necessity to be the enemy of the other” (Douglass 976).
The Guest.
Following the reading scheduled I read our next story by Alex Camus The Guest.
The story starts off with Daru whom is a schoolmaster “ watching the two men climb toward him.” (Camus, 2574.) The two men were Balducci who was the old gendarme whom he had known for a while, and an Arab man (who is never given a name) whom he captured for killing his cousin.
Daru was given a ask to bring the man in to Tinguit, which is the police headquarters. Daru isn’t too fond of this idea evidence which shows this is him stating “ What’s the story...Are you pulling my leg…The orders? I’m not…” (Camus 2576.)
He soon then gives into the task. Daru is very kind to the man by giving him a bed to sleep in, and giving him food to eat. At the end of the story Daru decided to leave the fate of the man in his own hands. The man then decides to turn himself in.
Throughout the story it seemed as if the man was trying to tell him something. When Daru asked him if he was afraid of being turned in, he responded with “ Are you sorry?” (Camus, 2579.) Daru wasn’t to sure of what he meant be it, and was actually annoyed.
It wasn’t until the end that Daru knew the meaning of that question. “ You handed over our brother. You will pay for this.” (Camus, 2582.)
I had to read the story twice to discover the meaning behind it. At first I felt that Daru gave the man the freedom to make his own decision.
Although the story can be interrupted in many ways in my opinion it mostly deals with loyalty. Beladucci felt Daru needed to be loyal to him and his people, just at the Arab man felt he should be with him.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Frederick Douglas 2.
“ I know of such cases; and it is worthy of remark that such slaves invariably suffer greater hardships, and have more to contend with, than others.” (Douglas, 924.) Frederick Douglas narrative speaks on many beatings he has witnessed through his times as a slave. Douglas however, was hardly ever beating by his masters. He has though suffered hunger and coldness.
His first occurrence he saw was with his Aunt Hester. His slave master ordered Aunt Hester to never go out on the evenings and he must “never catch her in the company with a young man.” (Douglas, 925.) Hester didn’t follow these orders. She went out and was with a young man named Lloyd Ned. When she returned the master beat her. He “stripped her from neck to waist, leaving her neck, shoulder’s, and back entirely naked.” (Douglas, 925.)
Another beating he witnessed was done by Mr. Severe. Douglas referred to him as a “cruel man.” He has seen him beating mothers, and has taken pleasure in the beatings.
Douglas’ has also witnessed people being torn away from their families. Master Colonel Lloyd was said to be so rich and own so many slaves he didn’t know them all. He asked a slave once was his owner treating him well, the slave responded “ No, sir.” The result of this led the man to be taken away from his friends and family, something Douglas states is a “ a hand more unrelenting than death.”
Douglas has witnessed many beatings and people being taken away from their homes. I call him a brave soul. To encounter and witness so many troubling and awful siting’s makes you courageous in my eyes.
Hedda Gabler
What is Power? According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary power is defined as ability to act or produce an effect; ability to get extra-base hits; capacity for being acted upon or undergoing an effect; possession of control, authority, or influence over others.
This definition fits Hedda Gabler perfectly. Although beautiful, Hedda was a women who loved to be in control, and have power over others. The entire novel basis itself as Hedda as the main character who dominate everyone, and very selfish. “ Brack: And you didn’t really care in the least about the house? Hedda; God knows I didn’t.” ( Isben, 1486.) Instead of Hedda being happy for her and her husband’s home, the concern is always with herself.
Hedda was aware of the relationship Mrs. Elvsted had with Loveborg, and wanted to use that as power over the two. Loveborg was in love with Hedda, and even though she didn’t feel the same, she used that as leverage as well.
One can only wonder someone lived for control. Maybe because she was a general’s daughter she felt that was something that she deserved.
When Brack knew that she gave the gun to Loveborg for him to kill himself the power was out of her hands. What does she do? She doesn’t want to allow the Judge to have control over her. “ From now on I’ll be quiet.” ( Ibsen, 1518.) Since the power was out of Hedda’s hands she decided to gain back the control and end her life.
Frederick Douglas.
“ My mother was named Harriet Bailey. She was the daughter of Isaac and Betsey Bailey, both colored, and quite dark.” (Douglas, 923.)
“My father was a white man. He was admitted to be such by all I ever heard speak of my parentage. The opinion was also whispered that my master was my father, but of the correctness of my opinion.” (Douglas, 923.)
If found this to be very interesting. Multi-racial children were popular during these times. Slave owners often had sexual relations with their slaves. because this epidemic was a popular one I decided to do some research. Research shows that “Slave women were forced to comply with sexual advances by their masters on a very regular basis. Consequences of resistance often came in the form of physical beatings; thus, an enormous number of slaves became concubines for these men.” (bowdoin.edu.) Women feared being beaten so they decided to give in to their masters and have sex, and children would be a result of this.
The children were seen as African American and like Douglas was often unaware of whom their fathers were. Due to the fact that the owners wouldn’t claim their children. However there were some that would. They were treated as slaves and had to endure the same activities their mothers and or parents did. “Sometimes paternal manumission – where a master frees his children out of fatherly affections – would occur. ((bowdoin.edu.) Although this was very seldom. It hasn’t to determine why slave owners would commit such actions, and why the salves would allow them. One will always wonder.
www.bowdoin.edu/~prael/projects/gsonnen/page4.html
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Song of Myself - Jade Youngblood
Walt Whitman was not only a great poet; he was an extraordinary man. He spent his life putting others before himself. He sent money to his widowed mother every week. He nursed soldiers from the Civil War and spent the little money he had to buy needed supplies for them. In 1848, he moved to New Orleans and saw slavery firsthand. He hated it. The theme of democracy and equality are in many of his poems. “A Southerner soon as a Northerner, a planter nonchalant and hospitable down by the Oconee I live.” (984) The entire sixteenth section of Song of Myself is about how everyone is equal, not matter where you live.
My biggest challenge with Song of Myself was deciding who the narrator was. My husband personally thinks Whitman made God the narrator. “I pass death with the dying and birth with the new-washed babe, and am not contained between my hat and boots,” (983) I don’t think I agree. I think Whitman is using himself as the narrator, but he is explaining how his spirit (or soul) is flowing in and out of everything. He thinks he is everywhere, almost like God, but not quite. (I’m not saying he thinks he’s God, I just meant his spirit flows.)
The most interesting section of Song of Myself is in section thirty-two, line eighteen. “A gigantic beauty of a stallion, fresh and responsive to my caresses,” (986) After reading this, my husband informed me that Whitman was a homosexual. I personally think that Whitman is referring to a man in this section. “His well-built limbs tremble with pleasure as we race around and return.” (986) I could be completely wrong, but it would add a little spice if I was right.
My biggest challenge with Song of Myself was deciding who the narrator was. My husband personally thinks Whitman made God the narrator. “I pass death with the dying and birth with the new-washed babe, and am not contained between my hat and boots,” (983) I don’t think I agree. I think Whitman is using himself as the narrator, but he is explaining how his spirit (or soul) is flowing in and out of everything. He thinks he is everywhere, almost like God, but not quite. (I’m not saying he thinks he’s God, I just meant his spirit flows.)
The most interesting section of Song of Myself is in section thirty-two, line eighteen. “A gigantic beauty of a stallion, fresh and responsive to my caresses,” (986) After reading this, my husband informed me that Whitman was a homosexual. I personally think that Whitman is referring to a man in this section. “His well-built limbs tremble with pleasure as we race around and return.” (986) I could be completely wrong, but it would add a little spice if I was right.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Fredrick Douglass
Perpetua Onyekwelu
Fredrick Douglass
Fredrick Douglass was an American slave.
A powerful black man, that was not sure of his own age. His father was an unnamed
white man. His mother, Harriet Bailey was also a slave. When Fredrick was born,
he was separated from his mother. He was raised by an old woman “too old for
field labor” (pg923). The old woman raised him with other children that are not
old enough to work in the farm. His mother Harriet work hard in the farm plantation
field, and few times, at her peril, she ventured in to the night to visit her
son. “She would lie down with me, and get me to sleep, but long before I waked
she was gone” (pg923). Fredrick Douglass life as a slave deprived him to be
around his siblings. It caused him constant hunger, sleeping on the ground, and
bare foot, dressed in one cloth sometimes necked. He didn’t know about family affection
as a child.
A powerful black man, that was not sure of his own age. His father was an unnamed
white man. His mother, Harriet Bailey was also a slave. When Fredrick was born,
he was separated from his mother. He was raised by an old woman “too old for
field labor” (pg923). The old woman raised him with other children that are not
old enough to work in the farm. His mother Harriet work hard in the farm plantation
field, and few times, at her peril, she ventured in to the night to visit her
son. “She would lie down with me, and get me to sleep, but long before I waked
she was gone” (pg923). Fredrick Douglass life as a slave deprived him to be
around his siblings. It caused him constant hunger, sleeping on the ground, and
bare foot, dressed in one cloth sometimes necked. He didn’t know about family affection
as a child.
When Fredrick was around the age of
seven, he was sent to Hugh and Sophia Auld’s home in Baltimore. He was very
happy to go to the city. “Going to live in Baltimore laid the foundation, and
opened the gateway to all my subsequent prosperity” (pg936). It was in
Baltimore, under the instruction of Mrs. Auld that young Fredrick first learned
the alphabet. However it did not last long, before Mr. Auld discovered these lessons.
He strictly forbid it in words that left a profound impression on young Fredrick;
that while knowledge and learning of the world around him could bring him great
unhappiness, it could also give him great power over his enslavers who
preferred their chattel to remain ignorant and unthinking.
seven, he was sent to Hugh and Sophia Auld’s home in Baltimore. He was very
happy to go to the city. “Going to live in Baltimore laid the foundation, and
opened the gateway to all my subsequent prosperity” (pg936). It was in
Baltimore, under the instruction of Mrs. Auld that young Fredrick first learned
the alphabet. However it did not last long, before Mr. Auld discovered these lessons.
He strictly forbid it in words that left a profound impression on young Fredrick;
that while knowledge and learning of the world around him could bring him great
unhappiness, it could also give him great power over his enslavers who
preferred their chattel to remain ignorant and unthinking.
Fredrick proceeding from intense and
serious state of mind plan to continue to learn to read and write on sly, aided
by the white children he met on the street and among the shipyards and docks.
At this point he knew that education will set him free and eventually education
certainly set him free.
serious state of mind plan to continue to learn to read and write on sly, aided
by the white children he met on the street and among the shipyards and docks.
At this point he knew that education will set him free and eventually education
certainly set him free.
Hedda Gabler
Hedda Gabler is certainly an interesting story to say the least. One might say that it is quite an easy read, since there is always something happening. It can also be said that the story is full of drama. There is also some suspense involved. Some of the characters are somewhat mysterious and it is not until the story is over that they are better understood.
The one character that surely catches the reader's attention from the beginning to the end would have to be none other than Hedda. She is a quite complex character and is definitely a "handful" one might say. Hedda is a beautiful charming girl in the story and might look innocent, but this girl is not innocent. She knows what she wants and she finds a way to get it. One might say that Hedda is addicted to power. She loves having power over others, such as here husband, George Tesman. A couple lines in the story that stand out, come during a conversation between Judge Brack and Hedda. Judge Brack says, "For one thing you've got the home you always wanted." and Hedda replies, "You really believe that story." (Ibsen 1486). It would be easy to say after hearing this that Hedda is quite a sneaky person. She clearly did not have the home that she had always wanted. She had talked her poor husband into buying it though, so now they shared it together. When Judge Brack asked, "And you didn't really care in the least about the house?" Hedda replied to Brack, "God knows I didn't." She had only brought up the house in conversation so they would have something to talk about. One might say Hedda has a lot of nerve and is a bit too cocky conducting herself as she does. Hedda also gets bored very easily which makes one wonder how loyal she is too her husband. It seems as though the poor guy does not have a chance. This might lead one to feel bad for Tesman, since he seems to be such a good guy and his wife, well just seems to manipulate him to get what she wants.
The one character that surely catches the reader's attention from the beginning to the end would have to be none other than Hedda. She is a quite complex character and is definitely a "handful" one might say. Hedda is a beautiful charming girl in the story and might look innocent, but this girl is not innocent. She knows what she wants and she finds a way to get it. One might say that Hedda is addicted to power. She loves having power over others, such as here husband, George Tesman. A couple lines in the story that stand out, come during a conversation between Judge Brack and Hedda. Judge Brack says, "For one thing you've got the home you always wanted." and Hedda replies, "You really believe that story." (Ibsen 1486). It would be easy to say after hearing this that Hedda is quite a sneaky person. She clearly did not have the home that she had always wanted. She had talked her poor husband into buying it though, so now they shared it together. When Judge Brack asked, "And you didn't really care in the least about the house?" Hedda replied to Brack, "God knows I didn't." She had only brought up the house in conversation so they would have something to talk about. One might say Hedda has a lot of nerve and is a bit too cocky conducting herself as she does. Hedda also gets bored very easily which makes one wonder how loyal she is too her husband. It seems as though the poor guy does not have a chance. This might lead one to feel bad for Tesman, since he seems to be such a good guy and his wife, well just seems to manipulate him to get what she wants.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Dickinson - Jade Youngblood
I have never been a fan of poetry. I don't understand it well. Instead of saying,
“After great pain, a formal feeling comes –
The nerves sit ceremonies, like Tombs –” (1053)
why can't she say, “A broken heart is not fun, and it takes time to heal,”? Anyway, since I have no idea what Dickinson was trying to say in her poems, I would like to give a short biography of her life.
Emily Dickinson was born on December 10, 1830 in Amherst, Massachusetts. She went to boarding school, but returned after a year because she was too homesick to stay. This pattern continued throughout her life – she never left home and rarely had visitors. She did, however, correspond with many poets, writers, and scholars in her lifetime. A few of her influences included: William Wordsworth, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. As Dickinson aged, her seclusion became worse. She considered her dog Carlo her closest friend. (She named him after the dog in Jane Eyre.) Carlo died after sixteen years together. She even got to the point where she would only talk to visitors through a closed door. In her seclusion, she wrote most of her works during the mid 1860s. She also started to only wear white. Dickinson was surrounded by death – her mother, father, brother, and favorite nephew all died within her life. After a long battle of kidney disease, Dickinson died at the age of fifty-five on May 15, 1886.
“This is the hour of Lead –
Remembered, if outlived,
As Freezing persons. Recollect the Snow –
First – Chill – then Stupor – then the letting go –” (1053)
“After great pain, a formal feeling comes –
The nerves sit ceremonies, like Tombs –” (1053)
why can't she say, “A broken heart is not fun, and it takes time to heal,”? Anyway, since I have no idea what Dickinson was trying to say in her poems, I would like to give a short biography of her life.
Emily Dickinson was born on December 10, 1830 in Amherst, Massachusetts. She went to boarding school, but returned after a year because she was too homesick to stay. This pattern continued throughout her life – she never left home and rarely had visitors. She did, however, correspond with many poets, writers, and scholars in her lifetime. A few of her influences included: William Wordsworth, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. As Dickinson aged, her seclusion became worse. She considered her dog Carlo her closest friend. (She named him after the dog in Jane Eyre.) Carlo died after sixteen years together. She even got to the point where she would only talk to visitors through a closed door. In her seclusion, she wrote most of her works during the mid 1860s. She also started to only wear white. Dickinson was surrounded by death – her mother, father, brother, and favorite nephew all died within her life. After a long battle of kidney disease, Dickinson died at the age of fifty-five on May 15, 1886.
“This is the hour of Lead –
Remembered, if outlived,
As Freezing persons. Recollect the Snow –
First – Chill – then Stupor – then the letting go –” (1053)
Friday, April 8, 2011
Hedda Gabler Quiz
Hey, Everyone, I left town without a copy of the quiz to load into Blackboard. I'll get it up when I get back to LR. I'll extend the due date a day or so. CKB
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Frankenstein
Frankenstein
In Mary Shelley Frankenstein, I kept
thinking if the creature is good or bad. In my opinion I will think that the
creature is good. The creature smiled benevolently at Victor through his bed
curtains (Shelley 35). He suffers from his abandonment. He learns the hard way
that fire burns and that he is ugly. He is tormented and targeted because of
his displeasing appearance. However his senility showed when he became filled
with nature, and cried at some of depressing stories from the De lacy’s family.
His tender and caring heart showed when he looked over the family, gathered
fire wood for them, and cleared snow from the path for them during the winter
month. “My thoughts now became more active, and I longed to discover the
motives and feelings of these lovely creatures” (Shelley 77). He had educated
himself through this time, and he was trying to get the courage to show himself
to the family that he loved. All of the creature’s action throughout the time watching
over De lacy’s shows his pure heart and good intensions.
thinking if the creature is good or bad. In my opinion I will think that the
creature is good. The creature smiled benevolently at Victor through his bed
curtains (Shelley 35). He suffers from his abandonment. He learns the hard way
that fire burns and that he is ugly. He is tormented and targeted because of
his displeasing appearance. However his senility showed when he became filled
with nature, and cried at some of depressing stories from the De lacy’s family.
His tender and caring heart showed when he looked over the family, gathered
fire wood for them, and cleared snow from the path for them during the winter
month. “My thoughts now became more active, and I longed to discover the
motives and feelings of these lovely creatures” (Shelley 77). He had educated
himself through this time, and he was trying to get the courage to show himself
to the family that he loved. All of the creature’s action throughout the time watching
over De lacy’s shows his pure heart and good intensions.
When the creature finally gets the nerves to
confront the De lacy. He was hoping to be accepted by the old man and
eventually by his family. He is violently rejected by the old man’s family. Even
while Felix is beating the creature to save his blind father, the creature does
not strike him back. That will make one think that the creature have some good sense
in him. He never kills anyone out of spite until he discovers the nature of his
creation and how Victor just left him. His anger toward Victor is justified. He
does not mean to kill William. The creature was outraged by the rejection, and
he caused his creator Victor Frankenstein for putting him on earth to endure
such misery. The creature says, “Cursed, cursed creator! Why did I live?”
(Shelley 91). The rejection was the final straw for him to hold back his rage.
He decided that he hated his creator so much, and he would revenge his physical
and emotional wound by destroying Victor’s life.
confront the De lacy. He was hoping to be accepted by the old man and
eventually by his family. He is violently rejected by the old man’s family. Even
while Felix is beating the creature to save his blind father, the creature does
not strike him back. That will make one think that the creature have some good sense
in him. He never kills anyone out of spite until he discovers the nature of his
creation and how Victor just left him. His anger toward Victor is justified. He
does not mean to kill William. The creature was outraged by the rejection, and
he caused his creator Victor Frankenstein for putting him on earth to endure
such misery. The creature says, “Cursed, cursed creator! Why did I live?”
(Shelley 91). The rejection was the final straw for him to hold back his rage.
He decided that he hated his creator so much, and he would revenge his physical
and emotional wound by destroying Victor’s life.
In Mary Shelley, one can realize that
people can make someone do what they don’t have intention of doing by just the
way they behave around them. This is the creature who thinks, feels, suffers,
desires, and reasons. Unfortunately, he is unfairly judged by his appearance
without giving him a chance to express himself.
people can make someone do what they don’t have intention of doing by just the
way they behave around them. This is the creature who thinks, feels, suffers,
desires, and reasons. Unfortunately, he is unfairly judged by his appearance
without giving him a chance to express himself.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Frederick Douglass #2
Frederick Douglass was a man who accomplished great things, even though he lived in an environment where he could easily have his life and dreams taken away at any point. He was extremely persistent to say the least. From reading the narrative, it seems as though Frederick Douglass would not give up for anyone. He gave it his all until he had no more. Sure Douglass wanted to be free and probably always had, but one day this dream got a just a little closer to reality. He became aware of one very necessary skill that would lead to success and a better future came, and it came when he least expected it. His mistress, Mrs. Auld, began to teach him the alphabet, and then went on to teach him words. This was the first time that Frederick had been taught the alphabet. When Mr. Auld found out that Mrs. Auld was teaching Frederick the alphabet he was not happy but enraged. Mr. Auld said, "It would forever unfit him to be a slave. He would at once become unmanageable, and of no value to his master." (Douglass 937). Mr. Auld said this about Frederick learning the alphabet, because he knew what the power of knowledge could do to him. Mr. Auld even went on to say, "It would make him discontented and unhappy." (Douglass 937). Mr. Auld was right when he say that Frederick would be discontented and unhappy. It could be said the this discontent that Frederick had lead him to keep trying to find a better life. Frederick seemed to be consumed with the thought of freedom, which is evident when he said, "I saw nothing without seeing it, I heard nothing without hearing it, and felt nothing without feeling it." (Douglass 941). The thought of freedom was driving Frederick insane clearly. Though the thought of freedom almost drove him crazy, Frederick later reached his goal.
Frederick Douglass
The Narrative of the life of Frederick Douglass, aside from its historical significance, is a book that cannot be described with just a mere word. The emotions that come from this narrative have to be read to be completely understood. It is a very personal story, which definitely adds to the emotions that come from the words. Being that the story is a personal account of part of the history of the United States, even though it might not have been the prettiest or most highly thought of time in history, adds to its significance greatly, because it can be related to by many, in different parts of the country. It seems very appropriate to say the Frederick Douglass was a man that had a very strong will to not only survive his circumstances, but to free himself from his circumstances and lead a more promising life. The perserverance that Douglass showed along the way was nothing short of inspirational and somewhat unbelievable. Douglass went through many difficult things that most people simply would not be able to handle. "He rushed at me with the fierceness of a tiger," said Douglass about Mr. Covey, and Mr. Covey was just one harsh man that Douglass had to deal with (Douglass 949). Douglass had to deal with being constantly intimidated and mistreated by Mr. Covey. Douglass said the marks left by Mr. Covey were, "visible for a long time after." (Douglass 949). Violent acts were directed toward him all the time, but they did not stop Frederick. He kept living his life, even though it was not easy.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass
Judging by the way this book reads so far, it is one that I could read in one sitting if I had an afternoon with no other responsibilities. I’m drawn to this type of historical information, whether it is in books, movies, interviews or any other form. I was actually exited when I learned that this was one of the literature pieces that we would be reading this semester.
Fredrick Douglass opens the narrative in a way that immediately grabs my attention. As he stated, he had no accurate knowledge of his age. He said that this was the case with the majority of the slaves he knew. “By far the large part of the slaves know as little of their ages as horses know of theirs” (Douglass 923). He estimates his age based on hearing his master mention that he was about 17 years old in 1835.
It is somewhat difficult to organize my thoughts on this narrative so far, having read such a small portion of the story. I can say that Douglass is very crafty in the way he describes the people in the narrative, more specifically, the masters and overseers. He describes his first master’s overseer, Mr. Plummer as “a miserable drunkard, a profane swearer , and a savage monster (Douglass 925). Another overseer he describes is Mr. Gore. He is described as “proud, ambitious and preserving. He was artful, cruel and obdurate” (Douglass 932).
Fredrick Douglass opens the narrative in a way that immediately grabs my attention. As he stated, he had no accurate knowledge of his age. He said that this was the case with the majority of the slaves he knew. “By far the large part of the slaves know as little of their ages as horses know of theirs” (Douglass 923). He estimates his age based on hearing his master mention that he was about 17 years old in 1835.
It is somewhat difficult to organize my thoughts on this narrative so far, having read such a small portion of the story. I can say that Douglass is very crafty in the way he describes the people in the narrative, more specifically, the masters and overseers. He describes his first master’s overseer, Mr. Plummer as “a miserable drunkard, a profane swearer , and a savage monster (Douglass 925). Another overseer he describes is Mr. Gore. He is described as “proud, ambitious and preserving. He was artful, cruel and obdurate” (Douglass 932).
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Frankenstein 3
At the beginning of Frankenstein not too many bad things happen. Everything goes rather smoothly with no major catastrophes. Then Victor creates his monster, Frankenstein. After the creation, everything seemed go downhill and one bad thing after another happened.
Victor realized what he had done when the monster finally came to life. Once his creation came to life Victor said, "How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe." (Shelley 34). From the the beginning Victor reecognized his creatoin as a catastrophe even though the real catastrophes had yet to occur. It did not take long for Victor to become afraid of his creation. The night his creation came to life he attempted to sleep but could not. He woke up to the monster standing over with, "his eyes, if eyes they may be called, were fixed on me" said Victor about the monster. (Shelley 35). Victor was so terrified he left his apartment for the whole night.
This was just the being of the catastrophes that would haunt Victor. One might say that Victor brought this upon himself, which seems to be apparent. The monster that he obsessed over for so long to create ironically becomes his worst nightmare, taking the lives of the ones he loves, such as his friend Henry.
Victor realized what he had done when the monster finally came to life. Once his creation came to life Victor said, "How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe." (Shelley 34). From the the beginning Victor reecognized his creatoin as a catastrophe even though the real catastrophes had yet to occur. It did not take long for Victor to become afraid of his creation. The night his creation came to life he attempted to sleep but could not. He woke up to the monster standing over with, "his eyes, if eyes they may be called, were fixed on me" said Victor about the monster. (Shelley 35). Victor was so terrified he left his apartment for the whole night.
This was just the being of the catastrophes that would haunt Victor. One might say that Victor brought this upon himself, which seems to be apparent. The monster that he obsessed over for so long to create ironically becomes his worst nightmare, taking the lives of the ones he loves, such as his friend Henry.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Frankenstein song!
I found a song the EVERYONE needs to listen to! its kinda of inappropriate so dont listen to it if arent a vulger person.
go to youtube. type in Frankenstein singing critic.
(its a little british guy singing with a guitar). It is so funny. I chose this song becuase it completely sums up everything about frankenstein and what might be going through his head.
go to youtube. type in Frankenstein singing critic.
(its a little british guy singing with a guitar). It is so funny. I chose this song becuase it completely sums up everything about frankenstein and what might be going through his head.
Dr. Frankenstein
While reading this novel, Victor, besides being the main character, stood out to me the most. His whole life changed when he created the monster and didnt want to fess up to take the blame for it's actions. In the beginning of Victors studies he shut himself off from the social world as well as his family which is what he did at the end of the story too. Alot of people were felling sorry for the monster, but to me, I personally felt sorry for Frankstein because he simply had a passion for life, creating life, and the science behind life. He didnt know that creating life within his monster would have a negative outlook. How was he supposed to know that creating the monster would result in the death of his brother, best friend, and wife, as well as contribute to two other deaths? In science there are consequences to everything but at first no scientist ways out the pro's and con's of what COULD happen, all they are processing is how famous a discover will make them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)