"As if panic, or the act of submergence, / could startle time into such compression, / crushing decades in the vice of your desperate, final seconds" (Collins).
Collins describes the moment before death when one's life flashes before their eyes. He first discusses the idea that one's life is condensed greatly in the moment before an individual dies. He then discusses that "any form [would] be better than this sudden flash." He does not think the flash gives an individual's life enough recognition because it is so short without enough meaning. Collins then has the realization that the sudden flash of life may not even exist. He recognizes that "the tide will take you, or the lake will accept it all." Collins believes that when an individual's time of death arrives, the "tide" or the "lake will not care about the life the individual had lived.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Winter's Bone Theme
http://www.kaboodle.com/reviews/lovers-knot-ring-from-james-avery
The theme of family loyalty is very prominent throughout Winter's Bone. The lover's knot represents the ties that force Ree to remain faithful to her brothers and mother. The fact that the ring is a circle depicts the thought that Ree cannot escape her situation. Ree will forever be bound to her family.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Winter's Bone pg. 163-193
"Two things everybody's got tuh du fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about livin' fuh theyselves" (Hurston 192).
"I'd get lost without the weight of you two on my back" (Woodrell 193).
Essay Topic: Does Ree fulfill Janie's second suggestion of what people have to do for themselves?
"I'd get lost without the weight of you two on my back" (Woodrell 193).
Essay Topic: Does Ree fulfill Janie's second suggestion of what people have to do for themselves?
Winter's Bone pg. 131-162
"'If she does wrong, you can put it on me'" (Hurston 137).
Teardrop takes responsibility for Ree because he feels bad for her, and he trusts her. Teardrop realizes that beating Ree was a way for the Miltons to seek revenge on her father, but he disagrees with their logic. Ree was only looking for answers, not trying to get anyone in trouble. However, the Miltons assume Ree is just like her father, so they beat her up because they do not trust her. Teardrop threatens them when he says, "If anybody lays even just one finger on that girl ever again, they better have shot me first" (138). Even though Teardrop had warned Ree not to go to Hawkfall asking about things they were not offering to talk about, he defends her. One could assume that he would be mad at her and say 'I told you so,' but he stands up for Ree instead. Teardrop shows strong family loyalty by coming to Ree's rescue without reprimanding her.
Teardrop takes responsibility for Ree because he feels bad for her, and he trusts her. Teardrop realizes that beating Ree was a way for the Miltons to seek revenge on her father, but he disagrees with their logic. Ree was only looking for answers, not trying to get anyone in trouble. However, the Miltons assume Ree is just like her father, so they beat her up because they do not trust her. Teardrop threatens them when he says, "If anybody lays even just one finger on that girl ever again, they better have shot me first" (138). Even though Teardrop had warned Ree not to go to Hawkfall asking about things they were not offering to talk about, he defends her. One could assume that he would be mad at her and say 'I told you so,' but he stands up for Ree instead. Teardrop shows strong family loyalty by coming to Ree's rescue without reprimanding her.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Winter's Bone pg. 109-130
"He flung his arm out, gesturing vaguely toward the land up the hill behind the house. 'I'd sell off that Bromont timber now while you can'" (Woodrell 112).
http://mountainhearth.blogspot.com/2010/12/over-river-and-through-woods.html
Upon Teardrop's arrival to tell Ree that her father had not shown for his court case, he insists for Ree to sell the timber behind Ree's house because she will need the money from it. It is known that "the true price of such a sale would be the ruination of home, and despite lean years of hardship no generation yet wanted to be the one who wrought that upon the family land" (104). Teardrop encourages Ree to sell the timber because he wants to see her be the disappointment to the family name. Rather than trying to save Ree from ruining the family name, Teardrop makes her feel like a failure. Teardrop gives Ree some money to help her out, but he is implying that her situation is too difficult to overcome. He does not want to see Ree succeed. Teardrop is weak willed and does not understand Ree's determination. Teardrop also has a sense of sincerity when he says this to Ree because he does not want whomever ends up living in Ree's house next to cut the timber. He does not want the timber to go to waste and let someone else make a profit off of it.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Winter's Bone pg. 20-81
"Blood don't truly count for diddly to the big man?" (Woodrell 63).
Ancestry is a common theme in Winter's Bone. Ree wants to rely on her family when she is looking for her father because she believes they should support her due to their blood relation. When Thump Milton will not speak to Ree, she does not understand his logic. She was hoping that he would talk with her because they are relatives. Teardrop warned Ree not to go down to Hawkfall and ask people about things they did not offer to talk about (25). Ree did not listen, and Thump Milton turned her away. Blond takes a different approach than Teardrop. Blood says to Ree, "Jessup'n me maybe had our tussles, but he was my first cousin still. I'll see whatever I can do for you" (76). Blood has a higher regard for the blood relation between him and Jessup. He is willing to help Ree find her father because he sees the value in their family name.
Ancestry is a common theme in Winter's Bone. Ree wants to rely on her family when she is looking for her father because she believes they should support her due to their blood relation. When Thump Milton will not speak to Ree, she does not understand his logic. She was hoping that he would talk with her because they are relatives. Teardrop warned Ree not to go down to Hawkfall and ask people about things they did not offer to talk about (25). Ree did not listen, and Thump Milton turned her away. Blond takes a different approach than Teardrop. Blood says to Ree, "Jessup'n me maybe had our tussles, but he was my first cousin still. I'll see whatever I can do for you" (76). Blood has a higher regard for the blood relation between him and Jessup. He is willing to help Ree find her father because he sees the value in their family name.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Winter's Bone pg. 3-19
"She'd never get away from her family as planned, off to the U.S. Army, where you got to travel with a gun and they made everybody help keep things clean. She'd never have only her own concerns to tote" (Woodrell 15).
Ree wishes to leave her family in the future because she is tired of being a caretaker at age sixteen. It is burdensome for Ree to be a mother to her brothers, and be responsible for all the household chores. Her father neglects to supply any means to the family, and her mother's health inhibits her from assisting in any way. Ree has a lot to handle at a young age. She wishes to go into the Army because she will not have to pick up or clean up after anyone else. The Army suits Ree because she will be able to focus some of her attention on herself. The only thing Ree does to sooth her pent up frustrations is "inject herself with pleasant sounds" (10). Listening to the sounds of the ocean allows Ree to escape from her current situation. She is able to find a sense of peace while listening to calming sounds.
Ree wishes to leave her family in the future because she is tired of being a caretaker at age sixteen. It is burdensome for Ree to be a mother to her brothers, and be responsible for all the household chores. Her father neglects to supply any means to the family, and her mother's health inhibits her from assisting in any way. Ree has a lot to handle at a young age. She wishes to go into the Army because she will not have to pick up or clean up after anyone else. The Army suits Ree because she will be able to focus some of her attention on herself. The only thing Ree does to sooth her pent up frustrations is "inject herself with pleasant sounds" (10). Listening to the sounds of the ocean allows Ree to escape from her current situation. She is able to find a sense of peace while listening to calming sounds.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Their Eyes Were Watching God Final Project
Savor childhood/innocence
1. "She sits high, but she looks low. Dat's what Ah say 'bout dese ole women runnin' after young boys" (3).
2. "She had glossy leaves and bursting buds and she wanted to struggle with life but it seemed to elude her" (11).
3. "Ah wants things sweet wid mah marriage lak when you sit under a pear tree and think. Ah..." (24).
4. "You married? You ain't hardly old enough to be weaned. Ah betcha you still craves sugar-tits, doncher?" (28).
5. "A feeling of coldness and fear took hold of her. She felt far away from things and lonely" (46).
6. "She was saving up feelings for some man she had never seen. She had an inside and an outside now and suddenly she knew how not to mix them" (72).
7. "Because he began to talk about her age all the time, as if he didn't want her to stay young while he grew old" (77).
8. "Years ago, she had told her girl self to wait for her in the looking glass" (87).
9. "She had found a jewel down inside herself and she had wanted to walk where people could see her and gleam it around" (90). She was just basking in freedom for the most part without the need for thought" (93).
10. "Then he looked back at her with an irresistible grin on his face. Janie burst out laughing in spite of herself" (97).
11. "It was so crazy digging worms by lamp light and setting out for Lake Sabelia after midnight that she felt like a child breaking rules. That's what made Janie like it" (102).
12. "Somebody done tole 'em what to set down for. Nobody ain't told poor me, so sittin' still worries me. Ah wants tuh utilize mahself all over" (112). Ah done lived Grandma's way, now Ah mean tuh live mine" (114).
13. "He drifted off into sleep and Janie looked down on him and felt a self-crushing love. So her soul crawled out from its hiding place" (128).
14. "Only here, she could listen and laugh and even talk some herself if she wanted to" (134).
15. "Janie learned what it felt like to be jealous" (136).
16. "Janie's coffee-and-cream complexion and her luxurious hair made Mrs. Turner forgive her for wearing overalls like the other women who worked in the fields" (140).
17. "Still and all, jealousies arose now and then on both sides" (147).
18. "It is so easy to be hopeful in the day time when you can see the things you wish on. But it was night, it stayed night" (158).
19. "You only sound ole when you tell folks when you wuz born, but wid de eye you'se young enough tuh suit most any man" (180). "God made it so you spent yo' ole age first wid somebody else, and saved up yo' young girl days to spend wid me" (180-181).
20. "Two things everybody's got tuh du fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about livin' fuh theyselves" (192).
1. "She sits high, but she looks low. Dat's what Ah say 'bout dese ole women runnin' after young boys" (3).
2. "She had glossy leaves and bursting buds and she wanted to struggle with life but it seemed to elude her" (11).
3. "Ah wants things sweet wid mah marriage lak when you sit under a pear tree and think. Ah..." (24).
4. "You married? You ain't hardly old enough to be weaned. Ah betcha you still craves sugar-tits, doncher?" (28).
5. "A feeling of coldness and fear took hold of her. She felt far away from things and lonely" (46).
6. "She was saving up feelings for some man she had never seen. She had an inside and an outside now and suddenly she knew how not to mix them" (72).
7. "Because he began to talk about her age all the time, as if he didn't want her to stay young while he grew old" (77).
8. "Years ago, she had told her girl self to wait for her in the looking glass" (87).
9. "She had found a jewel down inside herself and she had wanted to walk where people could see her and gleam it around" (90). She was just basking in freedom for the most part without the need for thought" (93).
10. "Then he looked back at her with an irresistible grin on his face. Janie burst out laughing in spite of herself" (97).
11. "It was so crazy digging worms by lamp light and setting out for Lake Sabelia after midnight that she felt like a child breaking rules. That's what made Janie like it" (102).
12. "Somebody done tole 'em what to set down for. Nobody ain't told poor me, so sittin' still worries me. Ah wants tuh utilize mahself all over" (112). Ah done lived Grandma's way, now Ah mean tuh live mine" (114).
13. "He drifted off into sleep and Janie looked down on him and felt a self-crushing love. So her soul crawled out from its hiding place" (128).
14. "Only here, she could listen and laugh and even talk some herself if she wanted to" (134).
15. "Janie learned what it felt like to be jealous" (136).
16. "Janie's coffee-and-cream complexion and her luxurious hair made Mrs. Turner forgive her for wearing overalls like the other women who worked in the fields" (140).
17. "Still and all, jealousies arose now and then on both sides" (147).
18. "It is so easy to be hopeful in the day time when you can see the things you wish on. But it was night, it stayed night" (158).
19. "You only sound ole when you tell folks when you wuz born, but wid de eye you'se young enough tuh suit most any man" (180). "God made it so you spent yo' ole age first wid somebody else, and saved up yo' young girl days to spend wid me" (180-181).
20. "Two things everybody's got tuh du fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about livin' fuh theyselves" (192).
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 19&20
"It's bad bein' strange niggers wid white folks. Everybody is aginst yuh" (Hurston 172).
The theme of race has been prevalent throughout the novel, but the theme of racism is really called into attention at the end of the novel. Tea Cake and the other men are required to separate the whites from the blacks while burying the dead because the whites will be buried in a coffin. This represents the thoughts of white supremacy by saying that the blacks were not valued enough to be buried in a coffin. Tea Cake and Janie discuss the stereotype that blacks fall under. Janie says, "De ones de white man know is nice colored folks. De ones he don't know is bad niggers" (172). White men assume that black men are bad if they are unknown by the white men. Tea Cake believes that white men think the black men "[they] don't know oughta be tried and sentenced tuh six months behind de United States privy house at hard smellin' (172). In Tea Cake's opinion, white men assume the worst about black men that they do not know.
The theme of race has been prevalent throughout the novel, but the theme of racism is really called into attention at the end of the novel. Tea Cake and the other men are required to separate the whites from the blacks while burying the dead because the whites will be buried in a coffin. This represents the thoughts of white supremacy by saying that the blacks were not valued enough to be buried in a coffin. Tea Cake and Janie discuss the stereotype that blacks fall under. Janie says, "De ones de white man know is nice colored folks. De ones he don't know is bad niggers" (172). White men assume that black men are bad if they are unknown by the white men. Tea Cake believes that white men think the black men "[they] don't know oughta be tried and sentenced tuh six months behind de United States privy house at hard smellin' (172). In Tea Cake's opinion, white men assume the worst about black men that they do not know.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 17&18
"Ah didn't whup Janie 'cause she done nothin'. Ah beat her tuh show dem Turners who is boss" (Hurston 148).
Janie's light complexion makes it easy to see the discoloration from bruises on her skin, so everyone notices when Tea Cake beats her. Tea Cake is bitter that Mrs. Turner tries to use her brother to lure Janie away from Tea Cake. Tea Cake beats Janie so Mrs. Turner can see that her efforts are hurting Janie. There are "no brutal beating at all. He just [slaps] her around a bit" in order to show Mrs. Turner that he has control of Janie (147). Tea Cake uses his authority to prove that he will administrate Janie's actions because he does not want to lose her. He does not brutally beat her because he does not want to overstep into territory that will make her leave him.
Janie's light complexion makes it easy to see the discoloration from bruises on her skin, so everyone notices when Tea Cake beats her. Tea Cake is bitter that Mrs. Turner tries to use her brother to lure Janie away from Tea Cake. Tea Cake beats Janie so Mrs. Turner can see that her efforts are hurting Janie. There are "no brutal beating at all. He just [slaps] her around a bit" in order to show Mrs. Turner that he has control of Janie (147). Tea Cake uses his authority to prove that he will administrate Janie's actions because he does not want to lose her. He does not brutally beat her because he does not want to overstep into territory that will make her leave him.
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 14, 15&16
"Ah can't stand black niggers. Ah don't blame de white folks from hatin' 'em 'cause Ah can't stand 'em mahself" (Hurtson 141).
Mrs. Turner dislikes her own race, and sympathizes with white supremacists because she does not like the commonness of black people. She sees herself as more civilized than the people she is surrounded by. Mrs. Turner likes "Janie's coffee-and-cream complexion and her luxurious hair made Mrs. Turner forgive her for wearing overalls like the other women who worked in the fields" (140). Mrs. Turner was able to overlook Janie's work in the field because she had the features of a white woman. Janie's physical appearance attracts Mrs. Turner's attention because she is unlike the rest of the black women that they are surrounded by. Janie's appearance causes Mrs. Turner to believe that Janie is too superior to be married to Tea Cake.
Mrs. Turner dislikes her own race, and sympathizes with white supremacists because she does not like the commonness of black people. She sees herself as more civilized than the people she is surrounded by. Mrs. Turner likes "Janie's coffee-and-cream complexion and her luxurious hair made Mrs. Turner forgive her for wearing overalls like the other women who worked in the fields" (140). Mrs. Turner was able to overlook Janie's work in the field because she had the features of a white woman. Janie's physical appearance attracts Mrs. Turner's attention because she is unlike the rest of the black women that they are surrounded by. Janie's appearance causes Mrs. Turner to believe that Janie is too superior to be married to Tea Cake.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 11, 12&13
"Things lak dat got uh whole lot tuh do wid convenience, but it ain't got nothin' tuh do wid love" (Hurtston 105).
Tea Cake and Janie's relationship is uncommon due to their age difference, but Tea Cake believes they can overcome that difference through love. As long as love exists between them, their ages do not matter. Janie is convinced of this idea when she says, "But he done showed me where it's de thought dat makes de difference in ages" (115). If she continues to fret about their age difference, she will never be fully engaged in their relationship. If her thoughts are similar to Tea Cake's, they can interact without thinking about the difference in their ages.
Tea Cake and Janie's relationship is uncommon due to their age difference, but Tea Cake believes they can overcome that difference through love. As long as love exists between them, their ages do not matter. Janie is convinced of this idea when she says, "But he done showed me where it's de thought dat makes de difference in ages" (115). If she continues to fret about their age difference, she will never be fully engaged in their relationship. If her thoughts are similar to Tea Cake's, they can interact without thinking about the difference in their ages.
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 8, 9&10
"She was just basking in freedom for the most part without the need for thought" (Hurston 93).
The death of Joe gave Janie a new found freedom. Janie was no longer under the pressure to act a certain way due to someone else's wishes. Janie was able to make her own decisions and not be criticized for a minor mistake in the store. She took the kerchief off of her head, and let her hair down because no one was there to tell her not to. She was living in ease because she did not have to comply with the demands or instructions of anyone else. Janie was quick to move on from the death of Joe because she had lost interest in their relationship before he died. She enjoyed her life as a widow because she did not spend much time dwelling on the loss of Joe. She embraced her new freedom with a sense of carelessness in order to thoroughly appreciate her independence.
The death of Joe gave Janie a new found freedom. Janie was no longer under the pressure to act a certain way due to someone else's wishes. Janie was able to make her own decisions and not be criticized for a minor mistake in the store. She took the kerchief off of her head, and let her hair down because no one was there to tell her not to. She was living in ease because she did not have to comply with the demands or instructions of anyone else. Janie was quick to move on from the death of Joe because she had lost interest in their relationship before he died. She enjoyed her life as a widow because she did not spend much time dwelling on the loss of Joe. She embraced her new freedom with a sense of carelessness in order to thoroughly appreciate her independence.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 6&7
"She had an inside and an outside now and suddenly she knew how not to mix them" (Hurston 72).
Janie has become restless and unhappy in her second marriage. She recognizes a lack of depth in her relationship with Joe because she accepts his verbal abuse and rarely defends herself. Joe is very aggressive towards Janie, and this is evident because "he wanted her submission and he'd keep on fighting until he felt he had it" (71). Joe always wanted to have the upper-hand with Janie. If she tries to argue with him, he tears down everything she says. She takes it upon herself to overlook Joe's rude comments and constant corrections of her work because she no longer has the desire to fight with him. Arguing with Joe would not help Janie gain a more superior position in Joe's eyes. Janie is left feeling very unappreciated and conflicted with her internal and external emotions.
Janie has become restless and unhappy in her second marriage. She recognizes a lack of depth in her relationship with Joe because she accepts his verbal abuse and rarely defends herself. Joe is very aggressive towards Janie, and this is evident because "he wanted her submission and he'd keep on fighting until he felt he had it" (71). Joe always wanted to have the upper-hand with Janie. If she tries to argue with him, he tears down everything she says. She takes it upon herself to overlook Joe's rude comments and constant corrections of her work because she no longer has the desire to fight with him. Arguing with Joe would not help Janie gain a more superior position in Joe's eyes. Janie is left feeling very unappreciated and conflicted with her internal and external emotions.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chaps. 3, 4&5
"Ah often wonder how dat lil wife uh hisn makes out wid him, 'cause he's uh man dat changes everything, but nothin' don't change him" (Hurston 49).
Joe Starks is a character with an intimidating demeanor that allows him to boss others around. Joe's economic standings also help with this matter. The people in the town recognize that he is wealthier and more superior than they, and therefore he is able to take advantage of their inferiority. No one in the town has "the temerity to challenge him" (50). Joe is turning the tides of the town, and he is continually making drastic changes without much resistance from the people in the town. The people succumb to his demands, so he continues to make changes. The other characters question how Janie is able to tolerate Joe's desire to always change things. They have witnessed his disrespectful treatment of Janie when she makes a mistake in the store. Joe is making puppets of the people in the town, and seems to be making a puppet out of Janie as well because she does not stand up against his rude behavior towards her.
Joe Starks is a character with an intimidating demeanor that allows him to boss others around. Joe's economic standings also help with this matter. The people in the town recognize that he is wealthier and more superior than they, and therefore he is able to take advantage of their inferiority. No one in the town has "the temerity to challenge him" (50). Joe is turning the tides of the town, and he is continually making drastic changes without much resistance from the people in the town. The people succumb to his demands, so he continues to make changes. The other characters question how Janie is able to tolerate Joe's desire to always change things. They have witnessed his disrespectful treatment of Janie when she makes a mistake in the store. Joe is making puppets of the people in the town, and seems to be making a puppet out of Janie as well because she does not stand up against his rude behavior towards her.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Their Eyes Were Watching God Chap. 1&2
"Mah daily prayer now is tuh let dese golden moments roll on a few days longer till Ah see you safe in life" (Hurston 15).
Nanny wishes for Janie to live a life that was different than her own, and Janie's mother's. After seeing Janie kiss Johnny Taylor, Nanny is concerned because she does not want to see Janie taken advantage of. Nanny is adamant that Janie gets married right away in order to prevent Janie from living the life that Janie's mother had lived. Although Janie's circumstances as a child were bleak, Nanny was grateful that she "got another chance" (16). Nanny had another chance to create a life for a child that would be happy and successful because her own daughter's life took an unfortunate turn after she was raped. Nanny wanted Janie to be "safe in life," and she makes great efforts to ensure that she is (15). Nanny buys a new plot of land for Janie's sake because she was made fun of in school due to where she lived. Nanny may seem overbearing, but she believes her efforts are in Janie's best interest.
Nanny wishes for Janie to live a life that was different than her own, and Janie's mother's. After seeing Janie kiss Johnny Taylor, Nanny is concerned because she does not want to see Janie taken advantage of. Nanny is adamant that Janie gets married right away in order to prevent Janie from living the life that Janie's mother had lived. Although Janie's circumstances as a child were bleak, Nanny was grateful that she "got another chance" (16). Nanny had another chance to create a life for a child that would be happy and successful because her own daughter's life took an unfortunate turn after she was raped. Nanny wanted Janie to be "safe in life," and she makes great efforts to ensure that she is (15). Nanny buys a new plot of land for Janie's sake because she was made fun of in school due to where she lived. Nanny may seem overbearing, but she believes her efforts are in Janie's best interest.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Streetcar Named Desire: Scenes 9, 10&11
"I don't want realism. I want magic! Yes, yes, magic! I try to give that to people. I misrepresent things to them. I don't tell the truth, I tell what ought to be truth. And if that is sinful, then let me be damned for it!" (Williams 145).
Blanche is admitting that she is a liar. She confesses that she often tells people what they would like to hear in order to make them happy. She sets people up for disappointment because once they have to face the truth, they are saddened by it. Blanche herself is a prime example of this. She relies on the compliments of others to feel good about her image. In the above instance, she has been insisting that Mitch not turn on the lights. Others have told her she is beautiful, but she is ashamed of her age that is revealed by the light. Blanche does not want to face the truth of her age that the light uncovers. Once her true image is shown, she is embarrassed, and proven guilty as a liar.
Blanche is admitting that she is a liar. She confesses that she often tells people what they would like to hear in order to make them happy. She sets people up for disappointment because once they have to face the truth, they are saddened by it. Blanche herself is a prime example of this. She relies on the compliments of others to feel good about her image. In the above instance, she has been insisting that Mitch not turn on the lights. Others have told her she is beautiful, but she is ashamed of her age that is revealed by the light. Blanche does not want to face the truth of her age that the light uncovers. Once her true image is shown, she is embarrassed, and proven guilty as a liar.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Streetcar Named Desire: Scenes 6,7&8
"Well he's not going to marry her. Maybe he was, but he's not going to jump in a tank with a school of sharks—now!" (Williams 126).
Mitch is an honorable man. He is different than the other men seen in the play. He asks Blanche's permission before he kisses her good night, he compliments her, and he speaks with his mom about her. He is trustworthy. However, upon hearing the stories that Stanley has heard about Blanche, he stands her up. This is uncommon for the reputation he has upheld so far. Upon hearing the stories about Blanche, Mitch should have addressed them with Blanche directly, rather than assuming they are true. Stella does not believe the stories, but Stanley is convinced that Blanche has slept around. Stanley speaks about the other men Blanche has slept with as "school of sharks" because there are so many (126). It would be dangerous for Mitch to expect someone with the reputation of Blanche to be loyal to him. Mitch does not want to marry Blanche anymore because she has a bad reputation.
Mitch is an honorable man. He is different than the other men seen in the play. He asks Blanche's permission before he kisses her good night, he compliments her, and he speaks with his mom about her. He is trustworthy. However, upon hearing the stories that Stanley has heard about Blanche, he stands her up. This is uncommon for the reputation he has upheld so far. Upon hearing the stories about Blanche, Mitch should have addressed them with Blanche directly, rather than assuming they are true. Stella does not believe the stories, but Stanley is convinced that Blanche has slept around. Stanley speaks about the other men Blanche has slept with as "school of sharks" because there are so many (126). It would be dangerous for Mitch to expect someone with the reputation of Blanche to be loyal to him. Mitch does not want to marry Blanche anymore because she has a bad reputation.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Streetcar Named Desire: Scenes 4&5
"[Stella has embraced him with both arms, fiercely, and full in the view of Blanche. He laughs and clasps her head to him. Over her head he grins through the curtains at Blanche]" (Williams 84).
The stage direction above is significant because we see a change in Stanley's behavior after he overheard Blanche and Stella's conversation. Stanley is now fully aware of the way Blanche feels about him, and he is acting so affectionate towards Stella in order to spite Blanche. He does not want to give Blanche the satisfaction that she is right about him. He would like to prove Blanche wrong and prove to Stella that he can be a better husband. However, he does not kiss Stella later on in the scene because they are in front of Blanche. This is odd because if he were trying to prove to Blanche that she was wrong about him, he should have kissed Stella in front of Blanche to show his gentle love for Stella rather than his abusive nature.
The stage direction above is significant because we see a change in Stanley's behavior after he overheard Blanche and Stella's conversation. Stanley is now fully aware of the way Blanche feels about him, and he is acting so affectionate towards Stella in order to spite Blanche. He does not want to give Blanche the satisfaction that she is right about him. He would like to prove Blanche wrong and prove to Stella that he can be a better husband. However, he does not kiss Stella later on in the scene because they are in front of Blanche. This is odd because if he were trying to prove to Blanche that she was wrong about him, he should have kissed Stella in front of Blanche to show his gentle love for Stella rather than his abusive nature.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Streetcar Named Desire: Scene 1
"Since the earliest manhood the center of his life has been pleasure with women, the giving and taking of it, not with weak indulgence, dependently, but with power and pride of a richly feathered male bird among hens. Branching out from this complete and satisfying center are all the auxiliary channels of his life, such as his heartiness with men, his appreciation of rough humor, his love of good drink and food and games, his car, his radio, everything that is his, that bears his emblem of the gaudy seed-bearer" (Scene 1, p. 25).
This stage direction gives insight to Stanley's personality, in which we are able to see that he is a man that is driven by sexual influence. Stanley's desire for "pleasure with women" determines his actions. The other aspects of his personality are deemed less significant. Stella and Blanche discuss that Stanley does a great deal of traveling, and Stella misses him while he is gone. Stella's love for Stanley is evident during their conversation, but it is not possible to see if Stella's love is reciprocated. Because Stanley travels a lot and focuses his attention on "pleasure with women," we can question Stanley's love for Stella and whether or not he may have cheated on her during his travels.
This stage direction gives insight to Stanley's personality, in which we are able to see that he is a man that is driven by sexual influence. Stanley's desire for "pleasure with women" determines his actions. The other aspects of his personality are deemed less significant. Stella and Blanche discuss that Stanley does a great deal of traveling, and Stella misses him while he is gone. Stella's love for Stanley is evident during their conversation, but it is not possible to see if Stella's love is reciprocated. Because Stanley travels a lot and focuses his attention on "pleasure with women," we can question Stanley's love for Stella and whether or not he may have cheated on her during his travels.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Great Gatsby Essay Topic
Although Tom and Daisy are depicted as successful, have they accomplished the American Dream?
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Great Gatsby Chap. 8&9
"They were careless people, Tom and Daisy-they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made..." (Fitzgerald 179).
Tom and Daisy were unable to see the consequences of their actions before they committed them. Tom must have suspected that Mr. Wilson was going to kill whoever had killed his wife, but this didn't stop him from telling Mr. Wilson that it had been Gatsby who hit Myrtle. Tom was careless about the fact that Mr. Wilson was going to murder someone. Daisy was also careless in this series of events because she did not stop the car after hitting Myrtle in the first place, and she must not have told Tom that she had been driving because it was probably easier to place the blame on someone else. Unfortunately, she did not consider that Gatsby would have to pay for her dishonesty. Daisy was responsible for the death of two people, but she simply "retreated back into [her] money...and let other people clean up the mess [she] had made" (179). Daisy did not attend Gatsby's funeral, or make any attempt to take responsibility for her actions. She left her "mess" in Nick's hands (179).
Tom and Daisy were unable to see the consequences of their actions before they committed them. Tom must have suspected that Mr. Wilson was going to kill whoever had killed his wife, but this didn't stop him from telling Mr. Wilson that it had been Gatsby who hit Myrtle. Tom was careless about the fact that Mr. Wilson was going to murder someone. Daisy was also careless in this series of events because she did not stop the car after hitting Myrtle in the first place, and she must not have told Tom that she had been driving because it was probably easier to place the blame on someone else. Unfortunately, she did not consider that Gatsby would have to pay for her dishonesty. Daisy was responsible for the death of two people, but she simply "retreated back into [her] money...and let other people clean up the mess [she] had made" (179). Daisy did not attend Gatsby's funeral, or make any attempt to take responsibility for her actions. She left her "mess" in Nick's hands (179).
Great Gatsby Chap. 7
"There is no confusion like the confusion of a simple mind, and as we drove away tom was feeling the hot whips of panic. His wife and his mistress, until an hour ago secure and inviolate, were slipping precipitately from his control" (Fitzgerald 125).
Tom's love for Daisy was renewed when he witnessed her interactions with Gatsby, and after being told that Mr. Wilson wanted to move away with Myrtle. Prior to Daisy's revived feelings for Gatsby, she was loyal to Tom, while Tom was having an affair with Myrtle. Tom was mistreating Daisy, so she did not see the problem with spending so much time with Gatsby. Tom's affair with Myrtle seemed to be acceptable, while Gatsby had become a threat to Tom and Daisy's relationship. When Tom realized that he could soon be without Myrtle and Daisy, he decided to pay closer attention to Daisy. He saw more potential in saving his relationship with Daisy rather than trying to prevent Myrtle from leaving her husband because Tom and Daisy were already married. Their love would be easier to sustain.
Tom's love for Daisy was renewed when he witnessed her interactions with Gatsby, and after being told that Mr. Wilson wanted to move away with Myrtle. Prior to Daisy's revived feelings for Gatsby, she was loyal to Tom, while Tom was having an affair with Myrtle. Tom was mistreating Daisy, so she did not see the problem with spending so much time with Gatsby. Tom's affair with Myrtle seemed to be acceptable, while Gatsby had become a threat to Tom and Daisy's relationship. When Tom realized that he could soon be without Myrtle and Daisy, he decided to pay closer attention to Daisy. He saw more potential in saving his relationship with Daisy rather than trying to prevent Myrtle from leaving her husband because Tom and Daisy were already married. Their love would be easier to sustain.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Is the American Dream Over?
"People who believe a politician of whatever party or persuasion can make their life better than individual initiative are doing more than dreaming" (Thomas 568).
Thomas believes that people cannot solely rely on politicians and the government to solve their problems. A certain degree of "individual initiative" is necessary in order to make individual progress. Acknowledging the social and economic problems is not enough to solve them. Americans must make their own way in order to achieve the American dream rather than depend on the government to solve their problems.
Thomas believes that people cannot solely rely on politicians and the government to solve their problems. A certain degree of "individual initiative" is necessary in order to make individual progress. Acknowledging the social and economic problems is not enough to solve them. Americans must make their own way in order to achieve the American dream rather than depend on the government to solve their problems.
Great Gatsby Chap. 6
"Perhaps his presence gave the evening its peculiar quality of oppressiveness - it stands out in my memory from Gatsby's other parties that summer" (Fitzgerald 104).
Nick suspects that Tom's presence at Gatsby's party is causing the party to be less enjoyable. Every thing else about the party remained relatively the same, so Tom was to blame for the "unpleasantness" at the party (104). There must have been some tension between Tom and Gatsby that led to the unusual atmosphere. Tom must have been able to sense that Daisy only enjoyed the party when she was Gatsby. Also, both Tom and Daisy felt a little uncomfortable at the party because they only knew Gatsby and Nick.
Nick suspects that Tom's presence at Gatsby's party is causing the party to be less enjoyable. Every thing else about the party remained relatively the same, so Tom was to blame for the "unpleasantness" at the party (104). There must have been some tension between Tom and Gatsby that led to the unusual atmosphere. Tom must have been able to sense that Daisy only enjoyed the party when she was Gatsby. Also, both Tom and Daisy felt a little uncomfortable at the party because they only knew Gatsby and Nick.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Great Gatsby Chap. 5
"There must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of his dreams - not through her own fault, but because of the colossal vitality of his illusion" (Fitzgerald 95).
Gatsby has been imagining his meeting with Daisy again for the last five years. Throughout those five years, he had been developing a fantasy as to how things would play out after they saw each other again. He had anticipated their reunification to be simple, without awkwardness. However, he did not realize that people can change over time. Daisy may have become someone he does not want to be with anymore. She could fall short of his expectations, but only because she does not think or act the same way she used to. Gatsby's illusion of Daisy may have set her up for failure to meet his expectations because she may no longer have the same feelings for him.
Gatsby has been imagining his meeting with Daisy again for the last five years. Throughout those five years, he had been developing a fantasy as to how things would play out after they saw each other again. He had anticipated their reunification to be simple, without awkwardness. However, he did not realize that people can change over time. Daisy may have become someone he does not want to be with anymore. She could fall short of his expectations, but only because she does not think or act the same way she used to. Gatsby's illusion of Daisy may have set her up for failure to meet his expectations because she may no longer have the same feelings for him.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Great Gatsby Chap. 4
"His name was Jay Gatsby, and I didn't lay eyes on him again for over four years - even after I'd met him on Long Island I didn't realize it was the same man" (Fitzgerald 75).
Daisy had been in love with Gatsby before she married Tom. Gatsby was the last soldier Daisy had been in a relationship with because it was difficult to say good-bye to him when he went off to the war. After hearing Jordan's account of the relationship Gatsby had with Daisy, it makes sense as to why Gatsby disappeared when Nick tried to introduce him to Tom. Gatsby already knew who Tom was because he had married the woman Gatsby was in love with. When Jordan found Daisy drunk before her bridal dinner with the letter, she had "change' her mine" because it had occurred to her that she was still in love with Gatsby and no longer wanted to marry Tom (76). Daisy was so curious about who Jordan was referring to after Jordan had mentioned Gatsby's name because she probably still has feelings for him.
Daisy had been in love with Gatsby before she married Tom. Gatsby was the last soldier Daisy had been in a relationship with because it was difficult to say good-bye to him when he went off to the war. After hearing Jordan's account of the relationship Gatsby had with Daisy, it makes sense as to why Gatsby disappeared when Nick tried to introduce him to Tom. Gatsby already knew who Tom was because he had married the woman Gatsby was in love with. When Jordan found Daisy drunk before her bridal dinner with the letter, she had "change' her mine" because it had occurred to her that she was still in love with Gatsby and no longer wanted to marry Tom (76). Daisy was so curious about who Jordan was referring to after Jordan had mentioned Gatsby's name because she probably still has feelings for him.
Monday, February 13, 2012
The Theory of the Leisure Class
"It is by no means an uncommon spectacle to find a man applying himself to work with the utmost assiduity, in order that his wife may in due form render for him that degree of vicarious leisure which the common sense of the time demands" (Veblen 2).
Veblen defines conspicuous leisure as the idea of having the means to buy material objects that display wealth. Men are often found laboring to achieve the economic means, while the women focus their attention on attaining a high social status. Women are often found conforming to the habits of other women - women most often participate in conspicuous leisure because they do not want to appear less wealthy, and so many other women are doing it as well. In The Great Gatsby, Mrs. Wilson is a a prominent example of a woman who participates in conspicuous leisure. Her husband works to attain their economic means, while she uses the money he makes to buy material objects that she hopes will give her a wealthy appearance.
Veblen defines conspicuous leisure as the idea of having the means to buy material objects that display wealth. Men are often found laboring to achieve the economic means, while the women focus their attention on attaining a high social status. Women are often found conforming to the habits of other women - women most often participate in conspicuous leisure because they do not want to appear less wealthy, and so many other women are doing it as well. In The Great Gatsby, Mrs. Wilson is a a prominent example of a woman who participates in conspicuous leisure. Her husband works to attain their economic means, while she uses the money he makes to buy material objects that she hopes will give her a wealthy appearance.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Great Gatsby Chap. 3
"She was incurably dishonest. She wasn't able to endure being at a disadvantage and, given this unwillingness, I suppose she had begun dealing in subterfuges when she was very young in order to keep that cool, insolent smile turned to the world and yet satisfy the demands of her hard, jaunty body" (Fitzgerald 58).
Nick describes Jordan Baker as a dishonest woman. He believes that she must lie when she feels insecure or "at a disadvantage" in order to maintain a flawless reputation. She cares so much about what people think of her that she does not want to make an error that may cause people to dislike her. Nick assumes that she has been "dealing in subterfuges" for quite some time because she seems to be very good at lying. She is able to deceive others with a natural instinct. Nick and Jordan are very opposite, but Nick still finds her appealing. Nick claims to be "one of the few honest people that [he] [has] ever known," while Jordan is dishonest and careless (59). Their relationship is interesting because they see the qualities they lack in the other, and appreciate them for them. Jordan "hates careless people," so "that's why [she] [likes] [Nick]" (58). She herself is a careless person, so she recognizes Nick's careful nature.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Great Gatsby Chap. 2
"With the influence of the dress her personality had also undergone a change. The intense vitality that had been so remarkable in the garage was converted into impressive hauteur" (Fitzgerald 30).
Mrs. Wilson is a very wealthy woman who spends her money excessively in order to fill the void that her husband leaves and to show her wealth to Tom. She uses her money to buy material objects that will entertain her while she is without her husband. For her to have her own apartment on Long Island that she uses to see Tom is an extra expense that she probably does not think twice about because she has the means to afford it. The puppy she purchases on the street is another example of her excessive spending. She wants a puppy simply to have one. She does not consider the responsibilities that come along with have a pet. This is evident while her guests are gathered in her apartment. The puppy is seemingly abandoned.
Mrs. Wilson is a very wealthy woman who spends her money excessively in order to fill the void that her husband leaves and to show her wealth to Tom. She uses her money to buy material objects that will entertain her while she is without her husband. For her to have her own apartment on Long Island that she uses to see Tom is an extra expense that she probably does not think twice about because she has the means to afford it. The puppy she purchases on the street is another example of her excessive spending. She wants a puppy simply to have one. She does not consider the responsibilities that come along with have a pet. This is evident while her guests are gathered in her apartment. The puppy is seemingly abandoned.
Great Gatsby Chap. 1
"'All right,' I said, 'I'm glad it's a girl. And I hope she'll be a fool - that's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool'" (Fitzgerald 17).
Daisy hopes for her child to be a fool with an implication that she herself is a fool. She believes that girls cannot attain any higher title. She knows that her husband has a mistress, and she blames herself for allowing that to happen. Daisy blames herself because she suspects she was not keeping Tom happy enough to remain faithful. Daisy wishes for her daughter to be a fool because she is aware of the worse things that her daughter could become. She does not want her daughter to end up like her.
Daisy hopes for her child to be a fool with an implication that she herself is a fool. She believes that girls cannot attain any higher title. She knows that her husband has a mistress, and she blames herself for allowing that to happen. Daisy blames herself because she suspects she was not keeping Tom happy enough to remain faithful. Daisy wishes for her daughter to be a fool because she is aware of the worse things that her daughter could become. She does not want her daughter to end up like her.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
MOV 4.2-5.1
"In both my eyes he doubly sees himself: / In each eye one. Swear by your double self, / And there's an oath of credit!" (Shakespeare V.i.244-246).
Portia is mocking Bassanio because his words are misleading. By saying that he will give her an oath while looking in both of her eyes, he is presenting a dual image of himself. Portia is considering Bassanio to be two-faced. This reiterates that Portia cannot trust Bassanio, otherwise she would not have read into his words. While Portia claims that her husband is insincere, it is important to note her joking tone. Although Portia seems to be making a joke, she also seems to be serious. Portia is in complete control of Bassanio and her relationship.
Portia is mocking Bassanio because his words are misleading. By saying that he will give her an oath while looking in both of her eyes, he is presenting a dual image of himself. Portia is considering Bassanio to be two-faced. This reiterates that Portia cannot trust Bassanio, otherwise she would not have read into his words. While Portia claims that her husband is insincere, it is important to note her joking tone. Although Portia seems to be making a joke, she also seems to be serious. Portia is in complete control of Bassanio and her relationship.
Friday, January 27, 2012
MOV 4.1, lines 242-453
"I'll pay it instantly with all my heart" (Shakespeare IV.i.277).
Antonio asks Bassanio to speak well of him after Shylock is to remove the pound of flesh from around his heart. Antonio wants Bassanio to tell Portia about him because Antonio wants Portia to know that Bassanio has already had a lover. Antonio asks Bassanio to "Tell [Portia] the process of Antonio's end, / Say how I loved you, speak me fair in death, / And when the tale is told, bid her be judge / Whether Bassanio had not once a love" (IV.i.270-273). Antonio wants Bassanio to remember him as a lover previous to Portia. Antonio is willing to pay Bassanio's debt with his flesh that he is bound to because he loves Bassanio. Antonio will "pay it instantly with all [his] heart" literally and figuratively (IV.i.277). The removal of Antonio's flesh will most likely cause him to die, therefore stopping his heart. Antonio will figuratively pay Bassanio's debt with all of his heart because his love for Bassanio makes him willing to sacrifice his life for him.
Antonio asks Bassanio to speak well of him after Shylock is to remove the pound of flesh from around his heart. Antonio wants Bassanio to tell Portia about him because Antonio wants Portia to know that Bassanio has already had a lover. Antonio asks Bassanio to "Tell [Portia] the process of Antonio's end, / Say how I loved you, speak me fair in death, / And when the tale is told, bid her be judge / Whether Bassanio had not once a love" (IV.i.270-273). Antonio wants Bassanio to remember him as a lover previous to Portia. Antonio is willing to pay Bassanio's debt with his flesh that he is bound to because he loves Bassanio. Antonio will "pay it instantly with all [his] heart" literally and figuratively (IV.i.277). The removal of Antonio's flesh will most likely cause him to die, therefore stopping his heart. Antonio will figuratively pay Bassanio's debt with all of his heart because his love for Bassanio makes him willing to sacrifice his life for him.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
MOV 4.1, lines 1-241
"Therefore I do beseech you / Make no moe offers, use no farther means, / But with all brief and plain conveniency / Let me have judgement, and the Jew his will" (Shakespeare IV.i.80-83).
During his trial, Antonio is impatient and no longer willing to argue with Shylock because Antonio feels as though he will not win the trial, and he has nothing left to live for. Antonio has no desire to win the trial because if he does, he will have no economic means to sustain his lifestyle, and Bassanio and Antonio will not be as involved as they were in the past. Antonio lost all of his wealth in the unsuccessful investments in his ships, and he has lost Bassanio as well. Now that Bassanio is married to Portia, Antonio and Bassanio's relationship has changed. Antonio assumes that Bassanio's marriage will restrict Bassanio's ability to reciprocate his love. Antonio is willing to accept his punishment because he's heroically dying for Bassanio's sake, and his death will relieve him from a life of debt and loneliness.
During his trial, Antonio is impatient and no longer willing to argue with Shylock because Antonio feels as though he will not win the trial, and he has nothing left to live for. Antonio has no desire to win the trial because if he does, he will have no economic means to sustain his lifestyle, and Bassanio and Antonio will not be as involved as they were in the past. Antonio lost all of his wealth in the unsuccessful investments in his ships, and he has lost Bassanio as well. Now that Bassanio is married to Portia, Antonio and Bassanio's relationship has changed. Antonio assumes that Bassanio's marriage will restrict Bassanio's ability to reciprocate his love. Antonio is willing to accept his punishment because he's heroically dying for Bassanio's sake, and his death will relieve him from a life of debt and loneliness.
Monday, January 23, 2012
MOV 3.3-3.5
"Madam, with all my heart / I shall obey you in all fair commands" (Shakespeare III.iv.35-36).
Lorenzo responds to Portia as if he has no choice but to obey what Portia says. Portia is manipulative and takes advantage of the weak willed people that surround her. She knew that Lorenzo would not say no to her request, so she imposes "The husbandry and manage of [her] house" on Lorenzo and Jessica (III.iv.25). Although Jessica and Lorenzo probably do not mind being in charge of Portia's house, it seems a bit rude of her to make that demand without asking for their thoughts.
Lorenzo responds to Portia as if he has no choice but to obey what Portia says. Portia is manipulative and takes advantage of the weak willed people that surround her. She knew that Lorenzo would not say no to her request, so she imposes "The husbandry and manage of [her] house" on Lorenzo and Jessica (III.iv.25). Although Jessica and Lorenzo probably do not mind being in charge of Portia's house, it seems a bit rude of her to make that demand without asking for their thoughts.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
MOV 3.1-3.2
"To bait fish withal; if it will feed nothing else, it will feed my revenge" (Shakespeare III.i.42-43).
Shylock's purpose for making Antonio repay the bond with his flesh is to express his hatred of Antonio. Shylock despises Antonio because he is a Christian and because he has mistreated him (I.iii.34). Shylock uses the bond to inflict cruelty on Antonio. Shylock wants to make it known that he would like to have the same rights as a Christian. Shylock argues that if a Christian can take "revenge" on a Jew, then a Jew has every right to act in the same way towards a Christian (III.i.46-57).
Shylock's purpose for making Antonio repay the bond with his flesh is to express his hatred of Antonio. Shylock despises Antonio because he is a Christian and because he has mistreated him (I.iii.34). Shylock uses the bond to inflict cruelty on Antonio. Shylock wants to make it known that he would like to have the same rights as a Christian. Shylock argues that if a Christian can take "revenge" on a Jew, then a Jew has every right to act in the same way towards a Christian (III.i.46-57).
Thursday, January 19, 2012
MOV 2.5-2.9
"A gentle riddance! Draw the curtains, go. / Let all of his complexion choose me so" (Shakespeare.II.vii.78-79).
Portia is pleased when Morocco picks the wrong casket because she was disappointed by his race. She is happy to see him leave because she knows that if he had chosen the right casket and they were to be married, she would not have been able to love him. Portia would have been giving Morocco the "worthless" version of herself (II.ix.17). Morocco would have gained Portia as his wife, but the relationship would have been emotionless. Morocco's quick departure is a sign that he was disappointed, but also that he was beginning to sense Portia's disinterest in him.
Portia is pleased when Morocco picks the wrong casket because she was disappointed by his race. She is happy to see him leave because she knows that if he had chosen the right casket and they were to be married, she would not have been able to love him. Portia would have been giving Morocco the "worthless" version of herself (II.ix.17). Morocco would have gained Portia as his wife, but the relationship would have been emotionless. Morocco's quick departure is a sign that he was disappointed, but also that he was beginning to sense Portia's disinterest in him.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
MOV 2.1-2.4
"The old proverb is very well parted between my master Shylock and you, sir: you have the grace of God, sir, and he hath enough" (Shakespeare II.ii.124-26).
Lancelot would like to become Bassanio's servant for fear of his reputation. Lancelot recognizes that Shylock is disliked in society, so he does not want to be associated with him. Lancelot tells his father, "I am a Jew if I serve the Jew any longer" (II.ii.91-92). Lancelot does not want the discrimination Shylock faces to be reflected on to him. Lancelot views Shylock as an outcast in Venetian society, and therefore he seeks to become Bassanio's servant. Bassanio seems to be surprised by this desire, however, because he says, "Shylock thy master spoke with me this day, And hath preferred thee, if it be preferment To leave a rich Jew's service to become The follower of so poor a gentleman" (II.ii.120-123). Lancelot would rather work for a "poor gentleman" than for a "rich Jew" because he does not want to subject himself to damnation. Lancelot believes that working for Bassanio will provide him with "the grace of God," and he will be able to work in conjunction with his Christian faith.
Lancelot would like to become Bassanio's servant for fear of his reputation. Lancelot recognizes that Shylock is disliked in society, so he does not want to be associated with him. Lancelot tells his father, "I am a Jew if I serve the Jew any longer" (II.ii.91-92). Lancelot does not want the discrimination Shylock faces to be reflected on to him. Lancelot views Shylock as an outcast in Venetian society, and therefore he seeks to become Bassanio's servant. Bassanio seems to be surprised by this desire, however, because he says, "Shylock thy master spoke with me this day, And hath preferred thee, if it be preferment To leave a rich Jew's service to become The follower of so poor a gentleman" (II.ii.120-123). Lancelot would rather work for a "poor gentleman" than for a "rich Jew" because he does not want to subject himself to damnation. Lancelot believes that working for Bassanio will provide him with "the grace of God," and he will be able to work in conjunction with his Christian faith.
MOV 1.3
"I would be friends with you, and have your love, Forget the shames that you have stained me with, Supply your present wants, and take no doit Of usance for my monies, and you'll not hear me" (Shakespeare I.iii.131-34).
Shylock wishes to befriend Bassanio and Antonio by changing the penalty if their bond is not repaid on time. Shylock alters his usual practice of charging interest in hopes that his "kindness" (I.iii.136) will stop them from discriminating him in public. Shylock has been called a dog, been spat on, and feels rejected by society. He is hoping that his act of "kindness" will prevent this type of discrimination from continuing. However, Shylock seems to have other intentions in mind as well. By insisting that Antonio's punishment if he does not pay back the bond on time shows Shylock's unrevealed intentions. Shylock says, "If I can catch him once upon the hip, I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him" (I.iii.38-39). Shylock's outer intensions do not match his inner intentions. Shylock's dual personality is evident.
Shylock wishes to befriend Bassanio and Antonio by changing the penalty if their bond is not repaid on time. Shylock alters his usual practice of charging interest in hopes that his "kindness" (I.iii.136) will stop them from discriminating him in public. Shylock has been called a dog, been spat on, and feels rejected by society. He is hoping that his act of "kindness" will prevent this type of discrimination from continuing. However, Shylock seems to have other intentions in mind as well. By insisting that Antonio's punishment if he does not pay back the bond on time shows Shylock's unrevealed intentions. Shylock says, "If I can catch him once upon the hip, I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him" (I.iii.38-39). Shylock's outer intensions do not match his inner intentions. Shylock's dual personality is evident.
Monday, January 9, 2012
MOV 1.2
"If I live to be as old as Sibylla, I will die as chaste as Diana unless I be obtained by the manner of my father's will. I am glad this parcel of wooers are so reasonable, for there is not one among them but I dote on his very absence; and I pray God grant them a fair departure" (Shakespeare I.ii.87-91).
Portia's descriptions of her suitors are very negative due to her unwillingness to accept her father's will. Portia should have faith in the plan that her father has made for her future. Nerissa tells her, "the lottery that he hath devised in these three chest of gold, silver, and lead, whereof who chooses his meaning chooses you, will no doubt never be chosen by any rightly but on who you shall rightly love" (I.ii.24-7). Nerissa is advising Portia to trust her father's method of selecting Portia's husband. Portia is still apprehensive, however, because she fears that she will end up marrying a man with whom she has no interest in.
Portia's descriptions of her suitors are very negative due to her unwillingness to accept her father's will. Portia should have faith in the plan that her father has made for her future. Nerissa tells her, "the lottery that he hath devised in these three chest of gold, silver, and lead, whereof who chooses his meaning chooses you, will no doubt never be chosen by any rightly but on who you shall rightly love" (I.ii.24-7). Nerissa is advising Portia to trust her father's method of selecting Portia's husband. Portia is still apprehensive, however, because she fears that she will end up marrying a man with whom she has no interest in.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
MOV pg. 171-187
"Antonio voices his mistrust of Shylock and his motives in agreeing to the 'bond' by calling him 'a villain with a smiling cheek,' outwardly benign but inwardly malevolent" (180).
In this instance that is referenced in the notes in the back of the book, Antonio addresses Shylock's "appearance versus reality." The theme of appearance versus reality was reoccurring throughout the first semester. Most notably, we found the theme of dual personality in The Awakening. Edna initially conformed to society's standards while internally questioning her decisions. In The Merchant of Venice, we are likely to see this theme through Shylock's personality because he seems kind and generous on the surface, but he is actually wishing to deceive others.
In this instance that is referenced in the notes in the back of the book, Antonio addresses Shylock's "appearance versus reality." The theme of appearance versus reality was reoccurring throughout the first semester. Most notably, we found the theme of dual personality in The Awakening. Edna initially conformed to society's standards while internally questioning her decisions. In The Merchant of Venice, we are likely to see this theme through Shylock's personality because he seems kind and generous on the surface, but he is actually wishing to deceive others.
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