Literature Webs – Flat view
Act 1
Key Words
• Witches & Witchcraft
• Accusations
• God & Christianity
• Devil
• Reputation
• Relationship (Proctor and Abigail)
Feelings
• Paranoia
• Fear of Witches
• Broken Relationship
• Arguments (Character foils and relationships)
Ideas
• False blame
• Land wars
• Church & Christianity
• Anti-Communist movement similarities
• Theocracy
Structure
• Play
• Long Introductory paragraphs with Authorial Intrusion
• Authorial Intrusion
Images/Symbols
• McCarthyism (Symbol)
• Land wars
• Christianity
Act 2
Key Words
• Hysterics
• Witch Trials
• Court
• Arrests
Feelings
• Fear
• Power
• Greed (For stuff you can do by accusing)
• “Innocent/Guilty”
Ideas
• Accusation
• Power (from being accuser)
• Control
• Lies!
Structure
• Play
• Authorial Intrusion
Images/Symbols
• Court
• Poppet (as Control)
Act 3
Key Words
• Reputation
• Court
• Inquisitors
• Authority
Feelings
• Anger
• Lost hope
• Vengeance
• Black and white towards others
Ideas
• God/Devil
• Control
• Lies!
• Acting
Structure
• Play
Images/Symbols
• Bird
• Acting and drama
• Commandments as how close to God
• Land wars
• Court as “Justice”
Act 4
Key Words
• Hanging
• Un-maintenance
• “Order”
• Church, Confession
Feelings
• Fear
• Confession
• Greater good
• Bravery
Ideas
• Paranoia
• Greater good
• Societal Collapse
• “Justice”
Structure
• Play
Images/Symbols
• Death
• Politics (Preserving one’s image)
• Name (Proctor)
• Prison (No way out anyways)
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The Crucible - Final
Introduction
The Crucible, written by Arthur Miller, is a play set in 17th century Massachusetts. During this time, the belief of witchcraft was predominant in the town, and many were accused in the famous Salem Witch Hunts. The trials of these accusations revolved around the biblical texts, and had little factual evidence that any magic was actually performed. For the most part, the charges were the product of grudges and land disputes. Witchery was simple to fake, and that led to a mass of false allegations which only stopped once everyone had become a “witch.”
Arthur Miller writes The Crucible during the time of the Anti-Communist movement in the United States. McCarthyism – named after the US Senator who promoted anti-communism, Joseph McCarthy – was the general name given to this movement. The Witch trials in the book serve as an allegory to the movement. The story also illustrates that not all of the accusations are factual. In the land wars of The Crucible, Putnam makes attempts to grab more land. Abigail uses the witch theme in an effort to kill Proctor’s wife. The play acts as a parable in such sense.
Act 1
The story of The Crucible begins with witchery immediately. Betty Parris, daughter of Reverend Parris is in a stupor. Parris claims to have seen her and other girls in the forest dancing, sparking witchcraft as a theory. He is very reluctant to state this as the primary source as, being the Salem church minister, the scene of witchery at his house can easily be used by his enemies. This is the initial development of the theme of witchcraft in this play. The incident causes the investigations of other inquiries which lead to more witch accusations, which do not end.
We also learn that John Proctor and Abigail Williams had a relationship earlier in time. It is this that caused Proctor’s wife Elizabeth to fire her from the household. Abigail still has feelings for Proctor, yet Proctor suppresses his, saying “I will cut off my hand before I’ll ever reach for you again,” (Miller, 23). Abigail also expresses hatred against Elizabeth, aiding the development of tension between the both of them. This is shown to be the primary reason for the later attacks from Abigail
Following the side-scene that tails Proctor’s past relationship, Betty is thrown into a fit. Mrs. Putnam springs to a conclusion that witchcraft is the sole reason for this, as a psalm was sung. Rebecca Nurse, counters that, indicating that she believes the girl is pretending. Rebecca is a respected person in the community and has been a grandmother many times, while Mrs. Putnam has lost 7 children previously. The contrasts between the two women emphasize the differences and create a character foil for each other.
At the arrival of Reverend Hale, renown for his intellect on witches, inquiries on witch-like activities are made. Many of these questions reinforce the superstition of the townsfolk, and serve to set the relationship between the witches and society. Hale first investigates the dancing that was reported, and under the pressure, the source of the problem is averted to Tituba, Parris’ slave. Although defending her position that she was forced by Abigail to perform the ritual, the opposing argument from Abigail appeals to Hale. The ending of this scene concludes with Tituba bending over to the general will and falsely admits to witchcraft, in which she gives the names of Sarah Good and Goody Osburn. This sparks a wave of names from Abigail and Betty, staring the chain of event which will lead to the arrest of many more.
The introduction of each major character is done via authorial intrusion. Miller writes a brief history and bluntly presents it to the reader without disguising it in any way. Along with these descriptions, he also explains the purpose of the stage directions and any actions the actors make. Such an example occurs when Proctor gets angered by Mary Warren. After his line “I’ll show you a great doin’ on your arse one of these days. Now get you home; my wife is waitin’ with your work!” Miller writes “Trying to retain a shred of dignity, she goes slowly out,” (Miller, 21). This shows the impact on the inner feelings of Mary Warren, something many plays would omit and express implicitly. Miller also uses metonymy in the introduction of the characters. In John Proctor’s introduction, Miller states “A Proctor is always marked for calumny,” (Miller, 20). This creates a stereotype-like term that can be applied to other characters who exhibit the same trait.
Act 2
The beginning of this act opens with a conversation between John Proctor and his wife. Although their discussions of daily events seem quite casual, the friction between them surfaces as they reach the climax of the discussion: Mary Warren, their servant. Mary, acting against Proctor’s will, had ventured into Salem to testify in court, during which she claimed to have saved his wife. In this scene the notable phrase “We must all love each other now,” (Miller, 56) from Mary is seen as a change to her dynamic character. From a shy, timid, mouse-like person, she changes with that comment into a threatening person who now has power over Proctor.
We also learn Abigail has risen to power as the “victim” of witchcraft attacks. Fourteen people have been accused of witchery and all from the mere acting of Abigail’s group. The only way of countering this is if Proctor admits his lechery. He faces a dilemma, as admitting lechery would destroy his reputation yet if he does not, the false witchcraft accusations will continue.
Elizabeth is arrested in this scene by Ezekiel Cheever and Herrick after they discover a poppet in the Proctor household. Using this as a connection between an earlier injury of Abiagil, they issue the arrest. Proctor in anger rips up this document, and pursues to free his wife. Hale is also changed in mindset, following the arrest of Proctor’s wife he begins to support Proctor in bringing down the false witch-hunters, going as far as to say “What I have heard in her favour, I will not fear to testify in court” (Miller, 78). The development of this opposing view in Hale will lead to bigger support for Proctor’s points.
Miller continues his use of authorial intrusion, ensuring the actors know every detail of the scene. This extensive use of stage directions also serves to enlighten the reader to past events. In the opening conversation, Elizabeth’s line is marked with “She doesn’t want friction, and yet she must,” (Miller, 51). Used in context with the following lines where Proctor angrily argues with her, it can be implied that the relationship is not a perfect one. Miller also uses irony during when Hale arrives at the Proctor household and requests Proctor to recite the Ten Commandments. He recites all but one, “Thou shalt not commit adultery.” This fact is quite ironic, being that he had an affair with Abigail, thereby violating this.
Act 3
In this act the true light of the accusations come to be. Two judges have arrived at the scene, to continue the judging of the witches. During one of their trials, the court is interrupted by Proctor and Mary Warren. Claiming that the girls are merely acting, Mary gives a testimony to the judges, but Danforth is not so quick in believing those facts. Along with many other residents of Salem, Danforth sees many perspectives in black and white. He believes that there are only two types of people in the town, those with the court and those against. Danforth tells this to Francis using an analogy: “But you must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against there is not road in between” (Miller, 94). Additionally, Danforth does not want to admit that he was tricked by a few girls.
In an attempt to destroy Proctor of any credibility, the judges, along with Parris begin to question his Christianity. It is revealed by Parris that Proctor would only go to church once a month, a fact that shocks the court. From this point, they try to argue that Proctor’s purpose for submitting such evidence is not to save his wife, but to overthrow the court. In the midst of all this the topic that Elizabeth is pregnant is brought up. When Danforth asks for confirmation, Proctor states that “That woman will never lie” (Miller, 92). This statement brings about his downfall.
To prove that he is not there to overthrow the court, Proctor admits to lechery with Abigail, stating “She thinks to dance with me on my wife’s grave” (Miller, 110). The logic behind this is all the witch-acting was setup by Abigail in an attempt to kill his wife so that they could be together. Because no person would throw away his honour for no reason, this statement carries much meaning. Danforth is unsure about this change of events and calls Elizabeth to confirm this. She is oblivious to this recent confession when she is called into the room and therefore, lies about his affair. This completely destroys Proctor’s argument and Abigail takes advantage of it by acting that there is witchery occurring in that room from Mary. Mary giving up hope that there will be any salvation announces that it was Proctor who forced her to do all that and he was working with the devil. Proctor, going crazy with this openly states that he is working for the devil and is arrested.
In this act, rhetoric is used to enforce the validity of the witch trials. One occurrence of this ensues when Francis Nurse states that the girls are acting. Judge Danforth rants with his achievements of his past cases: “Do you know that near to four hundred are in the jails from Marblehead to Lynn, and upon my signature?” (Miller, 87). In this line, Danforth indicates his superiority as well as give information that does not relate to the current case at all.
Act 4
In this final act, we see that the society of Salem is falling apart. Homes and farms are no longer maintained due to the fact that many people are accused of witchcraft. Hale urges the judges to pardon the prisoners, because they would not confess, even as he relentlessly attempts to make them confess. Danforth states that he will not allow this as it would create doubt on all of those accused. Even Parris is concerned about the hangings, as the people sentenced to death are of high social standing, and fears there may be revolt. Everyone in the town fears accusation.
Proctor has not confessed, and in an attempt to make him confess and save his life, Danforth calls on Elizabeth to try to get a confession out of him. In private, Proctor and his wife have a conversation. Giles is mentioned to be killed in an attempt to get him to confess, willing to die than submit a plea. After considering, Proctor makes the decision that he will confess. He signs, yet he does not give them the paper, saying he is entitled to his name, but Danforth interprets this as if Proctor is renouncing his agreement, and in the end he does. The rationale behind this is to him, the good is greater than his life and therefore, to prove that he sacrifices his life.
Works Cited
Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. Harmondsworth (GBR): Penguin, 1976. Print.
The Crucible, written by Arthur Miller, is a play set in 17th century Massachusetts. During this time, the belief of witchcraft was predominant in the town, and many were accused in the famous Salem Witch Hunts. The trials of these accusations revolved around the biblical texts, and had little factual evidence that any magic was actually performed. For the most part, the charges were the product of grudges and land disputes. Witchery was simple to fake, and that led to a mass of false allegations which only stopped once everyone had become a “witch.”
Arthur Miller writes The Crucible during the time of the Anti-Communist movement in the United States. McCarthyism – named after the US Senator who promoted anti-communism, Joseph McCarthy – was the general name given to this movement. The Witch trials in the book serve as an allegory to the movement. The story also illustrates that not all of the accusations are factual. In the land wars of The Crucible, Putnam makes attempts to grab more land. Abigail uses the witch theme in an effort to kill Proctor’s wife. The play acts as a parable in such sense.
Act 1
The story of The Crucible begins with witchery immediately. Betty Parris, daughter of Reverend Parris is in a stupor. Parris claims to have seen her and other girls in the forest dancing, sparking witchcraft as a theory. He is very reluctant to state this as the primary source as, being the Salem church minister, the scene of witchery at his house can easily be used by his enemies. This is the initial development of the theme of witchcraft in this play. The incident causes the investigations of other inquiries which lead to more witch accusations, which do not end.
We also learn that John Proctor and Abigail Williams had a relationship earlier in time. It is this that caused Proctor’s wife Elizabeth to fire her from the household. Abigail still has feelings for Proctor, yet Proctor suppresses his, saying “I will cut off my hand before I’ll ever reach for you again,” (Miller, 23). Abigail also expresses hatred against Elizabeth, aiding the development of tension between the both of them. This is shown to be the primary reason for the later attacks from Abigail
Following the side-scene that tails Proctor’s past relationship, Betty is thrown into a fit. Mrs. Putnam springs to a conclusion that witchcraft is the sole reason for this, as a psalm was sung. Rebecca Nurse, counters that, indicating that she believes the girl is pretending. Rebecca is a respected person in the community and has been a grandmother many times, while Mrs. Putnam has lost 7 children previously. The contrasts between the two women emphasize the differences and create a character foil for each other.
At the arrival of Reverend Hale, renown for his intellect on witches, inquiries on witch-like activities are made. Many of these questions reinforce the superstition of the townsfolk, and serve to set the relationship between the witches and society. Hale first investigates the dancing that was reported, and under the pressure, the source of the problem is averted to Tituba, Parris’ slave. Although defending her position that she was forced by Abigail to perform the ritual, the opposing argument from Abigail appeals to Hale. The ending of this scene concludes with Tituba bending over to the general will and falsely admits to witchcraft, in which she gives the names of Sarah Good and Goody Osburn. This sparks a wave of names from Abigail and Betty, staring the chain of event which will lead to the arrest of many more.
The introduction of each major character is done via authorial intrusion. Miller writes a brief history and bluntly presents it to the reader without disguising it in any way. Along with these descriptions, he also explains the purpose of the stage directions and any actions the actors make. Such an example occurs when Proctor gets angered by Mary Warren. After his line “I’ll show you a great doin’ on your arse one of these days. Now get you home; my wife is waitin’ with your work!” Miller writes “Trying to retain a shred of dignity, she goes slowly out,” (Miller, 21). This shows the impact on the inner feelings of Mary Warren, something many plays would omit and express implicitly. Miller also uses metonymy in the introduction of the characters. In John Proctor’s introduction, Miller states “A Proctor is always marked for calumny,” (Miller, 20). This creates a stereotype-like term that can be applied to other characters who exhibit the same trait.
Act 2
The beginning of this act opens with a conversation between John Proctor and his wife. Although their discussions of daily events seem quite casual, the friction between them surfaces as they reach the climax of the discussion: Mary Warren, their servant. Mary, acting against Proctor’s will, had ventured into Salem to testify in court, during which she claimed to have saved his wife. In this scene the notable phrase “We must all love each other now,” (Miller, 56) from Mary is seen as a change to her dynamic character. From a shy, timid, mouse-like person, she changes with that comment into a threatening person who now has power over Proctor.
We also learn Abigail has risen to power as the “victim” of witchcraft attacks. Fourteen people have been accused of witchery and all from the mere acting of Abigail’s group. The only way of countering this is if Proctor admits his lechery. He faces a dilemma, as admitting lechery would destroy his reputation yet if he does not, the false witchcraft accusations will continue.
Elizabeth is arrested in this scene by Ezekiel Cheever and Herrick after they discover a poppet in the Proctor household. Using this as a connection between an earlier injury of Abiagil, they issue the arrest. Proctor in anger rips up this document, and pursues to free his wife. Hale is also changed in mindset, following the arrest of Proctor’s wife he begins to support Proctor in bringing down the false witch-hunters, going as far as to say “What I have heard in her favour, I will not fear to testify in court” (Miller, 78). The development of this opposing view in Hale will lead to bigger support for Proctor’s points.
Miller continues his use of authorial intrusion, ensuring the actors know every detail of the scene. This extensive use of stage directions also serves to enlighten the reader to past events. In the opening conversation, Elizabeth’s line is marked with “She doesn’t want friction, and yet she must,” (Miller, 51). Used in context with the following lines where Proctor angrily argues with her, it can be implied that the relationship is not a perfect one. Miller also uses irony during when Hale arrives at the Proctor household and requests Proctor to recite the Ten Commandments. He recites all but one, “Thou shalt not commit adultery.” This fact is quite ironic, being that he had an affair with Abigail, thereby violating this.
Act 3
In this act the true light of the accusations come to be. Two judges have arrived at the scene, to continue the judging of the witches. During one of their trials, the court is interrupted by Proctor and Mary Warren. Claiming that the girls are merely acting, Mary gives a testimony to the judges, but Danforth is not so quick in believing those facts. Along with many other residents of Salem, Danforth sees many perspectives in black and white. He believes that there are only two types of people in the town, those with the court and those against. Danforth tells this to Francis using an analogy: “But you must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against there is not road in between” (Miller, 94). Additionally, Danforth does not want to admit that he was tricked by a few girls.
In an attempt to destroy Proctor of any credibility, the judges, along with Parris begin to question his Christianity. It is revealed by Parris that Proctor would only go to church once a month, a fact that shocks the court. From this point, they try to argue that Proctor’s purpose for submitting such evidence is not to save his wife, but to overthrow the court. In the midst of all this the topic that Elizabeth is pregnant is brought up. When Danforth asks for confirmation, Proctor states that “That woman will never lie” (Miller, 92). This statement brings about his downfall.
To prove that he is not there to overthrow the court, Proctor admits to lechery with Abigail, stating “She thinks to dance with me on my wife’s grave” (Miller, 110). The logic behind this is all the witch-acting was setup by Abigail in an attempt to kill his wife so that they could be together. Because no person would throw away his honour for no reason, this statement carries much meaning. Danforth is unsure about this change of events and calls Elizabeth to confirm this. She is oblivious to this recent confession when she is called into the room and therefore, lies about his affair. This completely destroys Proctor’s argument and Abigail takes advantage of it by acting that there is witchery occurring in that room from Mary. Mary giving up hope that there will be any salvation announces that it was Proctor who forced her to do all that and he was working with the devil. Proctor, going crazy with this openly states that he is working for the devil and is arrested.
In this act, rhetoric is used to enforce the validity of the witch trials. One occurrence of this ensues when Francis Nurse states that the girls are acting. Judge Danforth rants with his achievements of his past cases: “Do you know that near to four hundred are in the jails from Marblehead to Lynn, and upon my signature?” (Miller, 87). In this line, Danforth indicates his superiority as well as give information that does not relate to the current case at all.
Act 4
In this final act, we see that the society of Salem is falling apart. Homes and farms are no longer maintained due to the fact that many people are accused of witchcraft. Hale urges the judges to pardon the prisoners, because they would not confess, even as he relentlessly attempts to make them confess. Danforth states that he will not allow this as it would create doubt on all of those accused. Even Parris is concerned about the hangings, as the people sentenced to death are of high social standing, and fears there may be revolt. Everyone in the town fears accusation.
Proctor has not confessed, and in an attempt to make him confess and save his life, Danforth calls on Elizabeth to try to get a confession out of him. In private, Proctor and his wife have a conversation. Giles is mentioned to be killed in an attempt to get him to confess, willing to die than submit a plea. After considering, Proctor makes the decision that he will confess. He signs, yet he does not give them the paper, saying he is entitled to his name, but Danforth interprets this as if Proctor is renouncing his agreement, and in the end he does. The rationale behind this is to him, the good is greater than his life and therefore, to prove that he sacrifices his life.
Works Cited
Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. Harmondsworth (GBR): Penguin, 1976. Print.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Ethics and Commercialization
Jimmy describes the past society as one that is controlled by corporations. Large medical companies had built “compounds” in which their staff lived in. Similar to cities, but were much more: they were highly advanced, taking the best minds from the best schools. Examples of such “compounds” are OrganInc, AnooYoo and RejoovenEsense, all puns on words. These companies create and sell organs (in the case of OrganInc) or improvements to the human body (companies such as RejoovenEsense): a commercialization of the body. A major question which arises from the selling of such goods: Is the trade of such items ethical? In my personal opinion, I believe this to be as ethical as buying your groceries. When you buy an apple, which is harvested from a tree, is it killing the tree? Selling organs is ethical in my views, as it is not ending the life of an organism, and is beneficial to the humans in general. In today’s society, there are transplants, where donors give to the less fortunate; is that unethical? It is not seen by the general public as unethical. The unethical thoughts from this process are from underground trades from the black market. In the futuristic world given in Margaret Atwood’s book, all these sales are legal. Therefore, the commercialization of the human body is completely ethical.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Value of Science Response
The Value of Science
Science is a very important subject in this world. It provides knowledge to many topics and enables us, as humans to accomplish feats such as flight, and atomic power. Although this science assists us to perform tasks, many will argue that this subject wastes valuable time from intelligent scientists, who should by studying problems of social causes that would immediately benefit us as a community. Richard Feynman writes his work “The Value of Science” to address this issue. Feynman believes that, although the time of the scientists may be put to use in solving social problems, they are not any better than any other person; as such problems do not have formulas. Since scientists can be put to greater use in the field of science, the question arises: What value does science hold?
In many cases, there are good and bad outcomes of anything. Feynman believes that science is merely a tool that enables us to do good or evil as well. He quotes from a Buddhist religion: “To every man is given the key to the gates of heaven; the same key opens the gates to hell”. This illustrates the entirety of Feynman’s thoughts. To enforce this idea, Feynman provides examples such as that the study medicine is able to help people to rid sicknesses, yet there are those that still use that science for creating poison for warfare. This is agreeable; there are many examples that can be listed. One in which is common for many is the computer. Developed for science the tool is used today for both work (good) and theft (evil). The thought process that follows that creation of the idea will determine where it is to be used.
Feynman also mentions that there are other applications from science, such as social worldviews that are influenced and created from science. One of which he says is that the fact that the world views the applications of science over the idea itself. This can be arguable to an extent, as there are people that would be more interested in the idea. Such would be scientists that look at these ideas as a base model for future ideas.
The article is straightforward for the length it runs, as the ideas are explained clearly. There are no surprises that occur in this article as the logic is sound. Reading this article has humoured and provided a better understanding on the topic for myself, which again, proves that there is value in such science. This would lead me to believe that I am not the only one that enjoys such readings. The process of the enlightenment that the science creates is one that is enjoyed by many, and thankfully, there are those to write such pieces. Science has a very high value; it plays a role in determining the way the people live, their morals and enlightenment, making this subject one of the most prized.
Questions:
Discuss topic in science which has generated controversy within the general society. NOT GENETICS.
If such forks in the path of thinking that lead to outcomes of good and bad exist, does a method of reducing and/or eliminating the possibilities of such thinking exist?
Expand on a worldview that is created or influenced by science.
Science is a very important subject in this world. It provides knowledge to many topics and enables us, as humans to accomplish feats such as flight, and atomic power. Although this science assists us to perform tasks, many will argue that this subject wastes valuable time from intelligent scientists, who should by studying problems of social causes that would immediately benefit us as a community. Richard Feynman writes his work “The Value of Science” to address this issue. Feynman believes that, although the time of the scientists may be put to use in solving social problems, they are not any better than any other person; as such problems do not have formulas. Since scientists can be put to greater use in the field of science, the question arises: What value does science hold?
In many cases, there are good and bad outcomes of anything. Feynman believes that science is merely a tool that enables us to do good or evil as well. He quotes from a Buddhist religion: “To every man is given the key to the gates of heaven; the same key opens the gates to hell”. This illustrates the entirety of Feynman’s thoughts. To enforce this idea, Feynman provides examples such as that the study medicine is able to help people to rid sicknesses, yet there are those that still use that science for creating poison for warfare. This is agreeable; there are many examples that can be listed. One in which is common for many is the computer. Developed for science the tool is used today for both work (good) and theft (evil). The thought process that follows that creation of the idea will determine where it is to be used.
Feynman also mentions that there are other applications from science, such as social worldviews that are influenced and created from science. One of which he says is that the fact that the world views the applications of science over the idea itself. This can be arguable to an extent, as there are people that would be more interested in the idea. Such would be scientists that look at these ideas as a base model for future ideas.
The article is straightforward for the length it runs, as the ideas are explained clearly. There are no surprises that occur in this article as the logic is sound. Reading this article has humoured and provided a better understanding on the topic for myself, which again, proves that there is value in such science. This would lead me to believe that I am not the only one that enjoys such readings. The process of the enlightenment that the science creates is one that is enjoyed by many, and thankfully, there are those to write such pieces. Science has a very high value; it plays a role in determining the way the people live, their morals and enlightenment, making this subject one of the most prized.
Questions:
Discuss topic in science which has generated controversy within the general society. NOT GENETICS.
If such forks in the path of thinking that lead to outcomes of good and bad exist, does a method of reducing and/or eliminating the possibilities of such thinking exist?
Expand on a worldview that is created or influenced by science.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Oryx and Crake Questions #1
Oryx and Crake includes many details that seem futuristic, but are in fact already apparent in our world. What parallels were you able to draw between the items in the world of the novel and those in your own?
The author describes many of the items in the novel as very advanced. Unknowing to some, these technologies already exist today. The predominant “technology” that is described in the book is the genetic modification of animals to change their behaviour and to benefit humans by growing organs. Modification and merging of genes are capable of being performed today, one of the most notable being glowing cats where a cat had bioluminescent genes inserted into them. The computer games are quite viable today, as we see that they are mainly adaptations of board games to an electronic media. The websites shown with topics relating to mature matter are also present in this current day, yet they are frowned upon. Many of the technologies used in the novel are available today and this contributes to one of the factors of dystopian fiction: the ability for all the events to happen in the current day.
These "Glow in the dark" cats are a demonstration of the genetic modification available today
In the world of Oryx and Crake, almost everything is for sale, and a great deal of power is now in the hands of large corporations and their private security forces. There are already more private police in North America than there are public ones. What are the advantages of such a system? What are the dangers?
Private police forces are existent today such as they are in Oryx and Crake. In the novel, these police forces act in a manner that security personnel of corporations would today. There are advantages to the system of privately owned police forces such as these forces have fewer restrictions set upon them, as some of the policies are created by the employer to better suit the environment that they may be working within. Moreover they are usually paid by performance and not regulated rate, lowering the chance of corruption within the force and creating competition to other forces and improving the economy. Lastly, if the force is smaller than a conventional public force, they may have more funding per person and that would allow for better equipment to be utilized. There are disadvantages to this scheme as well: Each privately owned force will have different policies which may lead to bad practices and poor training. Additionally, because they have policies set by a corporation, they may use radical actions such as violence against other citizens. The systems of public and private police forces are present in the world today and have their pros and cons. They are sometimes more suited for some situations and less for others.
The author describes many of the items in the novel as very advanced. Unknowing to some, these technologies already exist today. The predominant “technology” that is described in the book is the genetic modification of animals to change their behaviour and to benefit humans by growing organs. Modification and merging of genes are capable of being performed today, one of the most notable being glowing cats where a cat had bioluminescent genes inserted into them. The computer games are quite viable today, as we see that they are mainly adaptations of board games to an electronic media. The websites shown with topics relating to mature matter are also present in this current day, yet they are frowned upon. Many of the technologies used in the novel are available today and this contributes to one of the factors of dystopian fiction: the ability for all the events to happen in the current day.
These "Glow in the dark" cats are a demonstration of the genetic modification available today
In the world of Oryx and Crake, almost everything is for sale, and a great deal of power is now in the hands of large corporations and their private security forces. There are already more private police in North America than there are public ones. What are the advantages of such a system? What are the dangers?
Private police forces are existent today such as they are in Oryx and Crake. In the novel, these police forces act in a manner that security personnel of corporations would today. There are advantages to the system of privately owned police forces such as these forces have fewer restrictions set upon them, as some of the policies are created by the employer to better suit the environment that they may be working within. Moreover they are usually paid by performance and not regulated rate, lowering the chance of corruption within the force and creating competition to other forces and improving the economy. Lastly, if the force is smaller than a conventional public force, they may have more funding per person and that would allow for better equipment to be utilized. There are disadvantages to this scheme as well: Each privately owned force will have different policies which may lead to bad practices and poor training. Additionally, because they have policies set by a corporation, they may use radical actions such as violence against other citizens. The systems of public and private police forces are present in the world today and have their pros and cons. They are sometimes more suited for some situations and less for others.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Oryx and Crake Notes
English 20
Oryx & Crake
Basic Plot
-Snowman was Jimmy
-Parents worked in "compounds"
-Parents worked OrganInc (Genetic growth industry)
-Something happened to make all that disappear
-"Apocalyptic" future
-Disease wiped out population
-"neo" people had skin that could stop harmful rays.
Elements of Dystopian Fiction
-Families lived in "perfect" "compounds"
-Lived in castle-like compounds
-corporate controlled
-Government is corporations
-Advanced medical science
-Looks like normal technology, maybe faster computers etc.
Oryx & Crake
Basic Plot
-Snowman was Jimmy
-Parents worked in "compounds"
-Parents worked OrganInc (Genetic growth industry)
-Something happened to make all that disappear
-"Apocalyptic" future
-Disease wiped out population
-"neo" people had skin that could stop harmful rays.
Elements of Dystopian Fiction
-Families lived in "perfect" "compounds"
-Lived in castle-like compounds
-corporate controlled
-Government is corporations
-Advanced medical science
-Looks like normal technology, maybe faster computers etc.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Blog Response - Chapters 22-30
What is the battle between the Bellipotent and the Athieste symbolic of? Who wins and why?
This battle is symbolic of the battle between Claggart and Billy. The French ship represented Claggart and the Bellipotent representing Billy. While the French ship looses, the Bellipotent sustains a heavy loss as well. This is almost a repeat of the event that occurred within the Bellipotent when Claggart accuses Billy of mutiny. The latter punched the former and Claggart died due to that. Even though Billy “won” in the short term, he was hanged later for that incident. In the battle of the ships, the same happens: the Bellipotent wins, yet Captain Vere dies some time later due to a bullet wound fired during the battle. The victory was a close one, and can also be considered a loss, as they lost a crew member of high standing, which symbolizes Billy’s death.
Describe what you think happened in the compartment as Captain Vere told Billy of the court’s decision. Base your response as accurately as possible on the characterizations of the two so far.
After the court made the decision of the punishment of Billy Budd, Captain Vere announced the results to Billy in the makeshift “jail” compartment. I think that the captain told the direct result to the condemned, as he follows procedures and is a straight-to-the-point type. At that point, I would think that Billy would be slightly shocked at the decision of his death, and the captain would continue, but not in such a formal tone. He would probably use a one-on-one type of conversation to tell Billy why the court came to that decision and I would think that Billy would accept it because he looks up to the captain as making the right choices.
The battle of the ships represents the long drawn out battle between Billy and Claggart. Ship battles usually only end when one ship has been damaged to the extent where it can no longer operate. Claggart was killed (no longer able to continue battle)
This battle is symbolic of the battle between Claggart and Billy. The French ship represented Claggart and the Bellipotent representing Billy. While the French ship looses, the Bellipotent sustains a heavy loss as well. This is almost a repeat of the event that occurred within the Bellipotent when Claggart accuses Billy of mutiny. The latter punched the former and Claggart died due to that. Even though Billy “won” in the short term, he was hanged later for that incident. In the battle of the ships, the same happens: the Bellipotent wins, yet Captain Vere dies some time later due to a bullet wound fired during the battle. The victory was a close one, and can also be considered a loss, as they lost a crew member of high standing, which symbolizes Billy’s death.
Describe what you think happened in the compartment as Captain Vere told Billy of the court’s decision. Base your response as accurately as possible on the characterizations of the two so far.
After the court made the decision of the punishment of Billy Budd, Captain Vere announced the results to Billy in the makeshift “jail” compartment. I think that the captain told the direct result to the condemned, as he follows procedures and is a straight-to-the-point type. At that point, I would think that Billy would be slightly shocked at the decision of his death, and the captain would continue, but not in such a formal tone. He would probably use a one-on-one type of conversation to tell Billy why the court came to that decision and I would think that Billy would accept it because he looks up to the captain as making the right choices.
The battle of the ships represents the long drawn out battle between Billy and Claggart. Ship battles usually only end when one ship has been damaged to the extent where it can no longer operate. Claggart was killed (no longer able to continue battle)
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Socratic Seminar 1
Response
In the essay “On Self-Respect”, the author talks about her views on self-respect. Although there are many examples, many if not all of them link up to a few central ideas, prominent in the entire work. The theme of “doing what is right and not what others think” is seen mainly in the second half of the work, providing many situations in which that applies. One such example is “the phenomenon sometimes called ‘alienation from self’”, where she Didion talks about how we make moves in our lives that are shaped from what you want people to see from you. Contrasting this is when she gives an event where a father is so buried in his reading, that he did not notice Indians moving into his house. I believe that this is a good definition of the meaning of self-respect, as it means respecting your ideas and thoughts, as shown in this example and by the quote “They are willing to invest something of themselves; they may not play at all, but when they do play, they know the odds”. There was not much that was puzzling in this essay, as all of it was straightforward. The examples used were good for the things they Didion wanted to explain, as the flow very nicely and give a good idea of what the general idea of the section was. Overall, I think that this is an excellent essay that describes the courageous people in this world that understand the concepts of “doing what’s right”
New Vocabulary
Assignations
Interminable
Insofar
Instilled
Questions:
Is self-respect necessary, as it causes differences and discriminations to be shown
Can you have self-respect without courage?
Are there other types of self-respect?
In the essay “On Self-Respect”, the author talks about her views on self-respect. Although there are many examples, many if not all of them link up to a few central ideas, prominent in the entire work. The theme of “doing what is right and not what others think” is seen mainly in the second half of the work, providing many situations in which that applies. One such example is “the phenomenon sometimes called ‘alienation from self’”, where she Didion talks about how we make moves in our lives that are shaped from what you want people to see from you. Contrasting this is when she gives an event where a father is so buried in his reading, that he did not notice Indians moving into his house. I believe that this is a good definition of the meaning of self-respect, as it means respecting your ideas and thoughts, as shown in this example and by the quote “They are willing to invest something of themselves; they may not play at all, but when they do play, they know the odds”. There was not much that was puzzling in this essay, as all of it was straightforward. The examples used were good for the things they Didion wanted to explain, as the flow very nicely and give a good idea of what the general idea of the section was. Overall, I think that this is an excellent essay that describes the courageous people in this world that understand the concepts of “doing what’s right”
New Vocabulary
Assignations
Interminable
Insofar
Instilled
Questions:
Is self-respect necessary, as it causes differences and discriminations to be shown
Can you have self-respect without courage?
Are there other types of self-respect?
Monday, September 27, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Blog Response - Chapters 15-21
Question 5
The Tragedy of Chapter 19 occurs when Billy is called to a cabin with the Captain and Claggart. The latter accuses Billy of attempting to form a mutiny conspiracy, which provokes Billy to part a blow to Claggart. I do not sympathize with Billy in this turn of events. Whether intentional or not, Billy’s actions killed Claggart and I do not feel for him as it is still manslaughter. I do not think that action is right, as one can not simply digress into violence as a solution for any problem. Billy should have reasoned with the master-at-arms and try to
Question 6
Captain Vere takes a few actions after the traumatizing situation. The first action he took was to check if Claggart was dead, and after confirming that, he calls for the Captain of the marines and the lieutenants for a court. I believe that his action was justified and the correct one. Military discipline is one of the highest regarded aspects of all men serving in any army/navy/air force. Following those procedures are every man’s duty on the ship and the captain does not have an exception to it. The court, after much discussion, sentences Billy to be hung the next morning. Captain Vere also enforces that the entire incident of the death of Claggart also be kept a secret from the rest of the crew. His reasoning is simple: to prevent any thoughts of the “Nore” from reoccurring. This is an action that I think is allowed and justified, as the case should have some time before being shown to the public.
Keeping the case secret may prevent mutiny.
The Tragedy of Chapter 19 occurs when Billy is called to a cabin with the Captain and Claggart. The latter accuses Billy of attempting to form a mutiny conspiracy, which provokes Billy to part a blow to Claggart. I do not sympathize with Billy in this turn of events. Whether intentional or not, Billy’s actions killed Claggart and I do not feel for him as it is still manslaughter. I do not think that action is right, as one can not simply digress into violence as a solution for any problem. Billy should have reasoned with the master-at-arms and try to
Question 6
Captain Vere takes a few actions after the traumatizing situation. The first action he took was to check if Claggart was dead, and after confirming that, he calls for the Captain of the marines and the lieutenants for a court. I believe that his action was justified and the correct one. Military discipline is one of the highest regarded aspects of all men serving in any army/navy/air force. Following those procedures are every man’s duty on the ship and the captain does not have an exception to it. The court, after much discussion, sentences Billy to be hung the next morning. Captain Vere also enforces that the entire incident of the death of Claggart also be kept a secret from the rest of the crew. His reasoning is simple: to prevent any thoughts of the “Nore” from reoccurring. This is an action that I think is allowed and justified, as the case should have some time before being shown to the public.
Keeping the case secret may prevent mutiny.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Billy Budd (Chapter 8-14 Response)
Question 6
Billy’s trait of kindness leads him into the forechains. When a fellow sailor awakens him from his sleep and tells him to rendezvous at the forechains, he complies. His kind and naive attitude will force himself to follow any instruction given, regardless of its suspiciousness. This is not a good set of traits for Billy, which is a weakness of his, as due to this, he will follow every order. This innocent trait may get him into trouble many times, as his fellow sailors could trick him into performing bad deeds, as well as placing him in awkward situations. One person whom may take advantage of this is Claggart, as the story indicates toward the envy that he has to Billy.
Question 7
The incident involving the soup that Billy spilt has many meanings. First, when Claggart arrives on scene, he comments “Handsomely done, my lad! And handsome is as handsome did it, too!” (p. 322) At this point, the sailors around laugh at this notion, and Billy dismisses the thought that Claggart would be “down on him” (p. 320) as Dansker described in the previous chapter. But immediately after the incident, we see another crew member bump into the master-at-arms, invoking the newly revealed wraith of Claggart: “Look where you go!” (p. 322). This change in attitude towards different characters indicates one of two things, either Claggart does has a disliking of the drummer-boy whom he had collided with, or he is hiding his true expression of feeling when taking to Billy. Of the two, the most likely is the latter. What Billy does not see after Claggart makes his comment on “handsomeness” his facial expression turns to one with a more bitter taste, which we may be able to assume that he is internally disliking Billy, yet does not wish to reveal it to him. It is later revealed that Claggart envies Billy for his handsomeness and his lack of experience to this feeling.
Envy, a characteristic of Claggart, the Master-at-Arms.
Billy’s trait of kindness leads him into the forechains. When a fellow sailor awakens him from his sleep and tells him to rendezvous at the forechains, he complies. His kind and naive attitude will force himself to follow any instruction given, regardless of its suspiciousness. This is not a good set of traits for Billy, which is a weakness of his, as due to this, he will follow every order. This innocent trait may get him into trouble many times, as his fellow sailors could trick him into performing bad deeds, as well as placing him in awkward situations. One person whom may take advantage of this is Claggart, as the story indicates toward the envy that he has to Billy.
Question 7
The incident involving the soup that Billy spilt has many meanings. First, when Claggart arrives on scene, he comments “Handsomely done, my lad! And handsome is as handsome did it, too!” (p. 322) At this point, the sailors around laugh at this notion, and Billy dismisses the thought that Claggart would be “down on him” (p. 320) as Dansker described in the previous chapter. But immediately after the incident, we see another crew member bump into the master-at-arms, invoking the newly revealed wraith of Claggart: “Look where you go!” (p. 322). This change in attitude towards different characters indicates one of two things, either Claggart does has a disliking of the drummer-boy whom he had collided with, or he is hiding his true expression of feeling when taking to Billy. Of the two, the most likely is the latter. What Billy does not see after Claggart makes his comment on “handsomeness” his facial expression turns to one with a more bitter taste, which we may be able to assume that he is internally disliking Billy, yet does not wish to reveal it to him. It is later revealed that Claggart envies Billy for his handsomeness and his lack of experience to this feeling.
Envy, a characteristic of Claggart, the Master-at-Arms.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Personal Response
Topic: How this text serves as commentary to the society
Death from incompetence – A commentary on the lifestyle of Medieval Europe
“The Lady of Shalott” is a poem depicting the lifestyle of medieval Europe, with a focus following the Lady of Shallot. The poem is centralized around a commoner, the Lady of Shalott, whom lives within a tower, outside of Camelot. Written in the Victorian era, the work focuses upon the storyline of King Arthur. The storyline communicates the lifestyle of the era, and the curiosity of a lady, which incurs the wraith of a curse, which results in death. This literary piece highlights themes of visualization, personality and idealism, using those to commentate on the society during that era of history.
Tennyson's poem starts with verses of the visualization of Camelot and its surrounding areas. The imagery serves to enhance the idea of for the nature of the era. Sections near the start of the poem present many pictures of the peaceful feel in the story, such as “Willows whiten, aspens quiver, /Little breezes dusk and shiver / Through the wave that runs for ever /By the island in the river /Flowing down to Camelot.” By including these nature references, the setting is given a more simplistic feel. Simplicity is one of the key elements within this poem; there are no complex roles, descriptions, settings or devices. The visions produced from the words help convey the setting to the reader, not only providing a stage for this story, but as well, but presenting information for the audience to imply the work done and the conditions in society at that time.
During this dark era, the majority of men regarded women as objects, which they were able to possess. Like common household items, they were commanded and were confined to the control of man. In this piece, the Lady of Shalott is imprisoned in a tower within Camelot. Within this tower, she spends her time weaving. The reason for this imprisonment is due to a curse that has been rumoured around the area; should she look down to Camelot, the curse shall be unleashed. Unfortunately, she sees in a “magic mirror” of the wide, far off land that she has never seen before, as well as Sir Lancelot, who is depicted as a gallant hero. It is him that incurs the curiosity of the lady and exit for to Camelot. She finds a boat and floats off into Camelot, where she dies. This implies that should the women deviate from their instructed task, they are punished. This was a true fact in the society at the time. The poem illustrates this, providing a commentary for the society.
Idealism, a major theme in Victorian literature, shows in Lord Tennyson's work. Emphases upon the aspects of Sir Lancelot indicates the ideal man in the medieval era. The lines “A red-cross knight for ever kneel'd/ To a lady in his shield, /That sparkled on the yellow field, /Beside remote Shalott.” Comment on the upper-class ranking of the knights among the peoples of the time. In the poem, they were portrayed as superior to everyone else and most looked up to them. From this, we can infer that during the medieval age – as directed from this poem – there were divided social classes and each had “personalities” that they displayed. The highlights of the different methods of describing also help the commentary of the poem describe the social classes in the society
This poem pictures the society and lifestyle of medieval Europe, from the scenery and attitudes. The commentary that the author provides bestows a better understanding of the society within that era. Through following the events that the Lady of Shallot make, pieces of the medieval culture are revealed. Using Victorian themes such as visualization, confinement and idealism, Lord Alfred Tennyson summarizes the way of life in the past.
Death from incompetence – A commentary on the lifestyle of Medieval Europe
“The Lady of Shalott” is a poem depicting the lifestyle of medieval Europe, with a focus following the Lady of Shallot. The poem is centralized around a commoner, the Lady of Shalott, whom lives within a tower, outside of Camelot. Written in the Victorian era, the work focuses upon the storyline of King Arthur. The storyline communicates the lifestyle of the era, and the curiosity of a lady, which incurs the wraith of a curse, which results in death. This literary piece highlights themes of visualization, personality and idealism, using those to commentate on the society during that era of history.
Tennyson's poem starts with verses of the visualization of Camelot and its surrounding areas. The imagery serves to enhance the idea of for the nature of the era. Sections near the start of the poem present many pictures of the peaceful feel in the story, such as “Willows whiten, aspens quiver, /Little breezes dusk and shiver / Through the wave that runs for ever /By the island in the river /Flowing down to Camelot.” By including these nature references, the setting is given a more simplistic feel. Simplicity is one of the key elements within this poem; there are no complex roles, descriptions, settings or devices. The visions produced from the words help convey the setting to the reader, not only providing a stage for this story, but as well, but presenting information for the audience to imply the work done and the conditions in society at that time.
During this dark era, the majority of men regarded women as objects, which they were able to possess. Like common household items, they were commanded and were confined to the control of man. In this piece, the Lady of Shalott is imprisoned in a tower within Camelot. Within this tower, she spends her time weaving. The reason for this imprisonment is due to a curse that has been rumoured around the area; should she look down to Camelot, the curse shall be unleashed. Unfortunately, she sees in a “magic mirror” of the wide, far off land that she has never seen before, as well as Sir Lancelot, who is depicted as a gallant hero. It is him that incurs the curiosity of the lady and exit for to Camelot. She finds a boat and floats off into Camelot, where she dies. This implies that should the women deviate from their instructed task, they are punished. This was a true fact in the society at the time. The poem illustrates this, providing a commentary for the society.
Idealism, a major theme in Victorian literature, shows in Lord Tennyson's work. Emphases upon the aspects of Sir Lancelot indicates the ideal man in the medieval era. The lines “A red-cross knight for ever kneel'd/ To a lady in his shield, /That sparkled on the yellow field, /Beside remote Shalott.” Comment on the upper-class ranking of the knights among the peoples of the time. In the poem, they were portrayed as superior to everyone else and most looked up to them. From this, we can infer that during the medieval age – as directed from this poem – there were divided social classes and each had “personalities” that they displayed. The highlights of the different methods of describing also help the commentary of the poem describe the social classes in the society
This poem pictures the society and lifestyle of medieval Europe, from the scenery and attitudes. The commentary that the author provides bestows a better understanding of the society within that era. Through following the events that the Lady of Shallot make, pieces of the medieval culture are revealed. Using Victorian themes such as visualization, confinement and idealism, Lord Alfred Tennyson summarizes the way of life in the past.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Question 2 and 8
English Blog responses
English 20
Examine the incident between the Red Whiskers and Billy. What is this incident meant to do? Does it suggest something about Billy’s character or just the Red Whiskers’s?
The incident between Billy and Red Whiskers involved a small scuffle during a dogwatch. I believe that this incident meant to inform the readers that, although Billy looks nice on the outside, he is still able to defend himself. This suggests something on both the Red Whiskers and Billy. It shows Billy has another side to his personality from being a very nice person to one who can fight. The Red Whiskers, who, described as a “big, shaggy chap with the fire-red whiskers” (p. 295) would imply that he was a rough, hostile person, but after the tussle, he changes and takes a liking to him.
What is Billy’s flaw? How important is this flaw in understanding his overall character? Has it altered your original evaluation of him? How?
The character Billy Budd is described as a perfect character in the story. All aspects of this person are liked by all and it seems like this perfect being does not have a defect. Unfortunately, like Achilles and his heel, Billy has weakness that, under pressure will show. The book describe this as “…yet under sudden provocation of strong heart-feeling his voice, otherwise singularly musical, as if expressive of the harmony within, was apt to develop an organic hesitance, in fact more or less of a stutter or even worse” (p. 302). This flaw is important to understanding more of Billy’s character, as it shows that he is hiding something. The book describes this defect causes him “no romance” (p. 302). This fact has not altered my evaluation of Billy Budd. Mainly the cause of this is due to my foreknowledge of this item.
Achilles' Heel, a weakness in the otherwise perfect hero
English 20
Examine the incident between the Red Whiskers and Billy. What is this incident meant to do? Does it suggest something about Billy’s character or just the Red Whiskers’s?
The incident between Billy and Red Whiskers involved a small scuffle during a dogwatch. I believe that this incident meant to inform the readers that, although Billy looks nice on the outside, he is still able to defend himself. This suggests something on both the Red Whiskers and Billy. It shows Billy has another side to his personality from being a very nice person to one who can fight. The Red Whiskers, who, described as a “big, shaggy chap with the fire-red whiskers” (p. 295) would imply that he was a rough, hostile person, but after the tussle, he changes and takes a liking to him.
What is Billy’s flaw? How important is this flaw in understanding his overall character? Has it altered your original evaluation of him? How?
The character Billy Budd is described as a perfect character in the story. All aspects of this person are liked by all and it seems like this perfect being does not have a defect. Unfortunately, like Achilles and his heel, Billy has weakness that, under pressure will show. The book describe this as “…yet under sudden provocation of strong heart-feeling his voice, otherwise singularly musical, as if expressive of the harmony within, was apt to develop an organic hesitance, in fact more or less of a stutter or even worse” (p. 302). This flaw is important to understanding more of Billy’s character, as it shows that he is hiding something. The book describes this defect causes him “no romance” (p. 302). This fact has not altered my evaluation of Billy Budd. Mainly the cause of this is due to my foreknowledge of this item.
Achilles' Heel, a weakness in the otherwise perfect hero
Friday, September 10, 2010
Goals for 2010/2011
Two goals:
1. Improve essay writing skills
2. Improve reading comprehension for "classic" literature.
1. Improve essay writing skills
2. Improve reading comprehension for "classic" literature.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
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