Monday, November 12, 2007
Ah, Are You Diggin on My Grave, Thomas Hardy
The poem is in narrative form. Thomas Hardy, a short story writer and a very fine poet can incorporate the value of worldly love after death. In Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave, Hardy is unsure who will come and visit after his death. Not quite sure who will, therefore posing the question, "Ah, are you digging on my grave?" Hoping for family or a loved one to visit. Yet, the one creature who comes to the grave is a little dog. "Your little dog, who still lives near, And much I hope my movements here , Have not disturbed your rest?" The dog digs upon the grave to bury a bone and apologizing for not realizing it was a resting spot. "I am sorry, but I quite forgot, It was your resting place". It is always comforting to know that people miss us when we die. But would you want to how loved ones felt after losing you? This is a question, which would help explain the meaning behind Ah, Are You Digging On my Grave?
Dover Beach, Matthew Arnold
Matthew Arnold Thomas Hardy
The speaker in “Dover Beach” relates that his world used to be filled with and surrounded by faith, like an ocean or the “sea of faith”, but that this sea has receded, and faith has abandoned his world. Meaning that the speaker has lost the religious belief that he had in the past. He tells the woman he is speaking to that they must cling to one another, because all that they have now that faith has abandoned the world is each other. The reader should be able to relate this much of the poem to the novel by comparing the world of the novel with the world of the poem.
Matthew Arnold was the son of Dr Thomas Arnold. During the summer the family's would vaction in the same area as William Wordsworth. The famous poet William Wordsworth and Matthew Arnold became friends. On route to Europe with his new wife, Lucy Wightman was propably when Arnold wrote Dover Beach. This was most likey in June 1851. This poem however was not published until 1867. "It is a poem of maturity reflecting his own felt need to commit himself and his life."Elements of Literature. These poems highlight his realization that love enhances loneliness, a sense of loss, and is a self-imposed prison. "How vain a thing is human love", "The heart can bind itself alone, and "faith may oft be unreturn'd Self-swayed our feelings ebb and swell" are a few examples of this. Why live or love in the past if you can do it everyday of your new life.
The speaker in “Dover Beach” relates that his world used to be filled with and surrounded by faith, like an ocean or the “sea of faith”, but that this sea has receded, and faith has abandoned his world. Meaning that the speaker has lost the religious belief that he had in the past. He tells the woman he is speaking to that they must cling to one another, because all that they have now that faith has abandoned the world is each other. The reader should be able to relate this much of the poem to the novel by comparing the world of the novel with the world of the poem.
Matthew Arnold was the son of Dr Thomas Arnold. During the summer the family's would vaction in the same area as William Wordsworth. The famous poet William Wordsworth and Matthew Arnold became friends. On route to Europe with his new wife, Lucy Wightman was propably when Arnold wrote Dover Beach. This was most likey in June 1851. This poem however was not published until 1867. "It is a poem of maturity reflecting his own felt need to commit himself and his life."Elements of Literature. These poems highlight his realization that love enhances loneliness, a sense of loss, and is a self-imposed prison. "How vain a thing is human love", "The heart can bind itself alone, and "faith may oft be unreturn'd Self-swayed our feelings ebb and swell" are a few examples of this. Why live or love in the past if you can do it everyday of your new life.
Porphyria's Lover, Robert Browning
"Porphyria's Lover," which first appeared in 1836, is one of the earliest and most shocking of Browning's pieces of writing. The speaker in the poem lives in a cottage on the countryside. His lover, a beautiful young woman named Porphyria, comes in out of a storm and proceeds to make a fire and bring a warm feel to the cottage. She embraces the speaker, offering him her bare shoulder. "She put my arm about her waist, and made her smooth white shoulder bare."-line 17. The speaker tells us that he does not say a word to her. The speaker realizes that she "worship" him. "Murmuring how she loved me- she too weak, for all her heart's endeavor"- Line 21. Realizing that she will eventually give in to society's pressures, and wanting to preserve the moment, he wraps her hair around her neck and strangles her. " And strangled her; No pain felt she"- Line 41. After strangling her to death he then toys with her corpse, opening the eyes and propping the body up against his side. He sits with her body this way the entire night, the speaker remarking that God has not yet moved to punish him. "And yet God has not said a word!"-Line 60
Robert Browning was very found of Percy Bysshe Shelley for his writings. Browning was brilliant, undisciplined, and determined to be a poet like Percy Bysshe Shelley. My Last Duchess , and Porphyria 's Lover, open a door to a new way of expressing himself. However, Robert Browning did not have to worry about anything but writing, supported by his parents, he had the time and the availability to write.
Robert Browning was very found of Percy Bysshe Shelley for his writings. Browning was brilliant, undisciplined, and determined to be a poet like Percy Bysshe Shelley. My Last Duchess , and Porphyria 's Lover, open a door to a new way of expressing himself. However, Robert Browning did not have to worry about anything but writing, supported by his parents, he had the time and the availability to write.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Flower in the Crannied Wall
Flower in the crannied wall,
I pluck you out of the crannies,
I hole you here, root and all, in my hand,
Little flower-but if I could understand
What you are, root and all, and all in all,
I should know what God and man is.
The longest belief known to man is God created Earth, man, and animal. Everything that breathes, moves or thinks, was created by this one all knowing power. Nothing on this Earth was made without a design. Tennyson adressed philiophical issues and offered many ways of resolving them. "And yet to some nineteenth centry artists and believers, modern science's scrutiny of nature was a threat."- Elements of Literature
Flower in the crannied wall,
I pluck you out of the crannies,
I hole you here, root and all, in my hand,
Little flower-but if I could understand
What you are, root and all, and all in all,
I should know what God and man is.
The longest belief known to man is God created Earth, man, and animal. Everything that breathes, moves or thinks, was created by this one all knowing power. Nothing on this Earth was made without a design. Tennyson adressed philiophical issues and offered many ways of resolving them. "And yet to some nineteenth centry artists and believers, modern science's scrutiny of nature was a threat."- Elements of Literature
Thursday, November 8, 2007
The Victorian Era
The biggest news buzzing around Europe during the Victorian Era was the crowning of the new queen. Receiving her title in June of 1837 and proudly ruling until her death in 1901. The Victorian Era was named for the time period of Queen Victoria’s reign. Only 18 when she came to the throne, Victoria oversaw England at the height of its overseas power. Through hard work and dedication to her country.The British Empire was established in her reign, and it reached its peak under her power. The government was set up of a constitutional monarch headed by Queen Victoria. Only the royalty could rule. Other politicians came from the aristocracy. The system was criticized by many as being in favor of the upper classes, and during the late 18th century, philosophers and writers began to question the social status of the nobility.
In 1888, the serial killer known as Jack the Ripper murdered and mutilated five know prostitutes from the streets of London. During this time many women could have been murdered and no one even known about it. This murderer won himself a world-wide press coverage and mass hysteria. Newspapers used the deaths to bring greater focus on the plea of the unemployed and to attack police and political leaders. The killer was never caught, and the affair contributed to Sir Charles Warren's resignation.
Before the Industrial Revolution, Britain had a very rigid social structure consisting of three distinct classes; the Church and aristocracy, the middle class, and the working class. Within the top call were the Church and nobility. This class had the power and the wealth. Only two percent of the population is in this class. The middle class or bourgeoisie was made up of factory owners, bankers, shopkeepers, merchants, lawyers, engineers, businessmen, traders, and other professionals. These people could be sometimes extremely rich, but in normal circumstances they were not privileged, and they especially resented this. The British lower class was divided into two sections, the working class and the poor. Both the poor class and the middle class had to endure a large burden of tax. This third class consisted of about eighty-five percent of the population.
Industrialisation changed the class structure dramatically in the late 18th century. This was one of the most radical changes from the Romantic Period to the Victorian Era. Industrialisation helped create hostile feelings between the upper and lower classes. As a result of factories and industry taking over ended the beautiful way of life. Prior to the boom in industry, life was less complicating. Society was and will always have something to do with money and status for some people. However, any poem/letter I have read in the Romantic Period was filled to the brim with love and imagination and heart. Nature and human coinciding were largely part of the Romantic period rather than the Victorian Era.
In 1888, the serial killer known as Jack the Ripper murdered and mutilated five know prostitutes from the streets of London. During this time many women could have been murdered and no one even known about it. This murderer won himself a world-wide press coverage and mass hysteria. Newspapers used the deaths to bring greater focus on the plea of the unemployed and to attack police and political leaders. The killer was never caught, and the affair contributed to Sir Charles Warren's resignation.
Before the Industrial Revolution, Britain had a very rigid social structure consisting of three distinct classes; the Church and aristocracy, the middle class, and the working class. Within the top call were the Church and nobility. This class had the power and the wealth. Only two percent of the population is in this class. The middle class or bourgeoisie was made up of factory owners, bankers, shopkeepers, merchants, lawyers, engineers, businessmen, traders, and other professionals. These people could be sometimes extremely rich, but in normal circumstances they were not privileged, and they especially resented this. The British lower class was divided into two sections, the working class and the poor. Both the poor class and the middle class had to endure a large burden of tax. This third class consisted of about eighty-five percent of the population.
Industrialisation changed the class structure dramatically in the late 18th century. This was one of the most radical changes from the Romantic Period to the Victorian Era. Industrialisation helped create hostile feelings between the upper and lower classes. As a result of factories and industry taking over ended the beautiful way of life. Prior to the boom in industry, life was less complicating. Society was and will always have something to do with money and status for some people. However, any poem/letter I have read in the Romantic Period was filled to the brim with love and imagination and heart. Nature and human coinciding were largely part of the Romantic period rather than the Victorian Era.
Multiple times through out the Victorian Period numerous people constantly found themselves questioning and raising doubts. Victorian composers would question whet er if material would satisfy human needs and wants. Within the beginning of the Victorian period some writers "complained that materialist ideas of reality, completely overlooked the spirit or soul that made life beautiful and just."-Elements of Literature. The start of the Victorian period began the "Acre in Middlesex". Historian Thomas Babington Macaulay voiced his opinion of improving society both morally and materially. Romantic writers were more about living in the moment and living life to the fullest. However, the Victorian writers were more conservative. Sex or anything along that nature were not put into exact words. Society as a whole became literate, due to schools and regulations becoming part of everyday life.
La Belle Dame Sans Merci, John Keats
"La Belle Dame Sans Merci" means "the beautiful woman without mercy." This is the title of one of Keats many solid poems. In this poem, the poet meets a knight by a woodland lake in late autumn. However, the knight did not respond. The only form of respone the poet recieved was a rambling story of one beautiful woman. The knight had been there for a long time, and is evidently dying from a "fever dew" which is the sweat of sickness from turboucious. The knight proceedes to say he "met a lady in the meads"; in the meadow. This mystery woman was describe as beautiful, and wild-looking.
To show how he felt for her, the knight showdered the beautiful woman with flowers. Yet, she did not speak, but looked and sighed as if she loved him. She spoke a language he could not understand, but he was confident she said she loved him. Sitting her apon his horse to ride, the knight walked along side, gazing at the woman he loves. He saw nothing but her, because she leaned over him and sang a mysterious song. He kissed her to sleep, and fell asleep along side her.
That night, he dreamt of host of kings, princes, and warriors, all pale as death. They shouted a terrible warning,they were the woman's slaves. And now he was her slave, too. Awakening, the woman was gone, and the knight was left on the cold hillside. Alone and dying. However, one could say they would take the one moment of pure love over a lifetime of none.
"Sidelong" means sideways. A "fragrant zone" is a flower belt. "Elfin" means "pertaining to the elves", or the fairy world. A "grot" is of course a grotto. "Betide" means "happen", and "woe betide" is a more romantical version of the contemporary expression "---- happens". "Gloam" means gloom. A "thrall" is an abject slave.
To show how he felt for her, the knight showdered the beautiful woman with flowers. Yet, she did not speak, but looked and sighed as if she loved him. She spoke a language he could not understand, but he was confident she said she loved him. Sitting her apon his horse to ride, the knight walked along side, gazing at the woman he loves. He saw nothing but her, because she leaned over him and sang a mysterious song. He kissed her to sleep, and fell asleep along side her.
That night, he dreamt of host of kings, princes, and warriors, all pale as death. They shouted a terrible warning,they were the woman's slaves. And now he was her slave, too. Awakening, the woman was gone, and the knight was left on the cold hillside. Alone and dying. However, one could say they would take the one moment of pure love over a lifetime of none.
"Sidelong" means sideways. A "fragrant zone" is a flower belt. "Elfin" means "pertaining to the elves", or the fairy world. A "grot" is of course a grotto. "Betide" means "happen", and "woe betide" is a more romantical version of the contemporary expression "---- happens". "Gloam" means gloom. A "thrall" is an abject slave.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Ode to the West Wind, Percy Bysshe Shelley
Beginning with Autumn, "O wild west wind, thou breath of Autumn' s being", flowing through winter, "The winged seeds, where they lie cold and low", and ending with spring, "Thine azure sister of the spring shall blow." Reviewing the seasons through out the first canto symbolizing death and rebirth.The circle of life. The author of this poem, Percy Bysshe Shelly, was grieving the death of his three year old son while writing this poem. Running through the seasons of earth can related to going through the seasons of life. And the love of nature can provide a healing process.
The second canto describes an enormous storm on the verge. "Loose clouds like earth's decaying leaves are shed", the clouds look as if they were leaves falling from a tree during fall. The storm is figuratively his life after the lost of a loved one. For his son was not to wake again, "Thou who didst waken from his dreams". However his son is said to be in a beautiful place, "And saw in sleep old palaces and towers".
And Spring yet again appears. The rebirth of the Earth, of Mankind. Percy Shelly saw Spring as a rebirth for himself. He enacted his life with nature. "Make me thy lyre, even as the forest is". A lyre is a stringed instrument; an instrument can spead music; such as spreading the happiness for life. Speading the thoughts of death "over the of universe" like "withered leaves" to "quicken a new birth!" Shelly personifaction with nature and humans. This form of writing was common during the Romantic era.
Shelley closed his poem,"The trumpet of a prophecy! O, Wind, If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?" Winter may come but spring will follow.
Ashes and sparks , my words among man kind! "if winter comes, spring be far behind.
The second canto describes an enormous storm on the verge. "Loose clouds like earth's decaying leaves are shed", the clouds look as if they were leaves falling from a tree during fall. The storm is figuratively his life after the lost of a loved one. For his son was not to wake again, "Thou who didst waken from his dreams". However his son is said to be in a beautiful place, "And saw in sleep old palaces and towers".
And Spring yet again appears. The rebirth of the Earth, of Mankind. Percy Shelly saw Spring as a rebirth for himself. He enacted his life with nature. "Make me thy lyre, even as the forest is". A lyre is a stringed instrument; an instrument can spead music; such as spreading the happiness for life. Speading the thoughts of death "over the of universe" like "withered leaves" to "quicken a new birth!" Shelly personifaction with nature and humans. This form of writing was common during the Romantic era.
Shelley closed his poem,"The trumpet of a prophecy! O, Wind, If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?" Winter may come but spring will follow.
Ashes and sparks , my words among man kind! "if winter comes, spring be far behind.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
A Letter To the Hon, Augusta Byron
TO THE HON. AUGUSTA BYRON Southwell, March 26th, 1804
I received your affectionate letter, my ever Dear Sister, yesterday and I now hasten to comply with your injunction by answering it as soon as possible . . .
I am as you may imagine a little dull here; not being on terms of intimacy with Lord Grey I avoid Newstead, and my resources of amusement are Books, and writing to my Augusta, which wherever I am, will always constitute my Greatest pleasure. I am not reconciled to Lord Grey, and I never will. He was once my Greatest Friend, my reasons for ceasing that Friendship are such as I cannot explain, not even to you, my Dear Sister, (although were they to be made known to any body, you would be the first,) but they will ever remain hidden in my own breast.
They are Good ones, however, for although I am violent I am not capricious in my attachments. My mother disapproves of my quarrelling with him, but if she knew the cause (which she never will know,) She would reproach me no more. He Has forfeited all title to my esteem, but I hold him in too much contempt ever to hate him . . .
George Gordon, also known as Lord Byron, wrote many letters to people in his life at the time. His letters illustrate a form of communication before phones and technology. The concept of corresponding was the exlcusive way of communicating during the Romantic period. Therefore many brillant writers emerged in this time. The letter I chose to review, was a letter from Lord Byron to his sister, Augusta Byron. March 26th 1804, was the date, Southwell was the location. Writing letters was the only opition for Byron. Hence writing letters to his "dearest sister" was an imporant part of his life; and was also his greatest form of enjoyment. Briefly, Byron exlpains his curious lost of friendship with Lord Grey; but does not go into any detail about the sitution. "Not being on terms of intimacy with Lord Grey I avoid Newstead, and my resources of amusement are Books, and writing to my Augusta, which wherever I am, will always constitute my Greatest pleasure". Byron exclaims "my reasons for ceasing that Friendship are such as I cannot explain, not even to you". Although, if he were to tell anyone it would be his sister; Lord Bryon insures her. However, later explains, "My mother disapproves of my quarrelling with him, but if she knew the cause (which she never will know,) She would reproach me no more." This news only brings a source of multiple questions. What happened between Lord Bryon and Lord Grey? Bryon, describes himself as "violent" however "not capricious in his attachments". He does not have a likely of changing frequently, suddenly, or unexpectedly. Therefore something horrific happened to end their friendship forever. "He Has forfeited all title to my esteem, but I hold him in too much contempt ever to hate him . . . " Closing his letter with sharing his feelings toward Lord Grey; Lord Byron has no respect for his formal friend, Lord Grey. Having no urge to even waste another thought on him.
I received your affectionate letter, my ever Dear Sister, yesterday and I now hasten to comply with your injunction by answering it as soon as possible . . .
I am as you may imagine a little dull here; not being on terms of intimacy with Lord Grey I avoid Newstead, and my resources of amusement are Books, and writing to my Augusta, which wherever I am, will always constitute my Greatest pleasure. I am not reconciled to Lord Grey, and I never will. He was once my Greatest Friend, my reasons for ceasing that Friendship are such as I cannot explain, not even to you, my Dear Sister, (although were they to be made known to any body, you would be the first,) but they will ever remain hidden in my own breast.
They are Good ones, however, for although I am violent I am not capricious in my attachments. My mother disapproves of my quarrelling with him, but if she knew the cause (which she never will know,) She would reproach me no more. He Has forfeited all title to my esteem, but I hold him in too much contempt ever to hate him . . .
George Gordon, also known as Lord Byron, wrote many letters to people in his life at the time. His letters illustrate a form of communication before phones and technology. The concept of corresponding was the exlcusive way of communicating during the Romantic period. Therefore many brillant writers emerged in this time. The letter I chose to review, was a letter from Lord Byron to his sister, Augusta Byron. March 26th 1804, was the date, Southwell was the location. Writing letters was the only opition for Byron. Hence writing letters to his "dearest sister" was an imporant part of his life; and was also his greatest form of enjoyment. Briefly, Byron exlpains his curious lost of friendship with Lord Grey; but does not go into any detail about the sitution. "Not being on terms of intimacy with Lord Grey I avoid Newstead, and my resources of amusement are Books, and writing to my Augusta, which wherever I am, will always constitute my Greatest pleasure". Byron exclaims "my reasons for ceasing that Friendship are such as I cannot explain, not even to you". Although, if he were to tell anyone it would be his sister; Lord Bryon insures her. However, later explains, "My mother disapproves of my quarrelling with him, but if she knew the cause (which she never will know,) She would reproach me no more." This news only brings a source of multiple questions. What happened between Lord Bryon and Lord Grey? Bryon, describes himself as "violent" however "not capricious in his attachments". He does not have a likely of changing frequently, suddenly, or unexpectedly. Therefore something horrific happened to end their friendship forever. "He Has forfeited all title to my esteem, but I hold him in too much contempt ever to hate him . . . " Closing his letter with sharing his feelings toward Lord Grey; Lord Byron has no respect for his formal friend, Lord Grey. Having no urge to even waste another thought on him.
Monday, November 5, 2007
I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud, William Wordsworth
Within the first words of I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud, William Wordsworth, describes wandering above as if a cloud which is floating above hills and valleys. Where he encountered a lake with a field of daffodils. "I wandered lonely as a cloud, that floats on high o'er vales and hills,When all at once I saw... golden daffodils." The speaker explains the poet could not help but be happy in such a joyful company of flowers in this moment of ecasty.
The speaker is metaphorically compared to a natural object, a cloud. "I wandered lonely as a cloud... That floats on high...", and the daffodils are repeatedly personified as human beings, dancing and "tossing their heads" in "a crowd, a host." This technique helped to describe the bond between man and nature. "They flash upon that inward eye", his memory; "which is the bliss of solitude", his memory coming forth when he is bored, alone, or restless. "And then my heart with pleasure fills, And dances with the daffodils." Happiness is found through thought and nature. Nature and people are connected. This was a largely practice concept through the Romantic Period. People were one with nature, and enjoyed to personify themsevles as elements in nature.
I Wandered Lonely As a Cloud, William Wordsworth, gave a simple example of nature and humans combinding; making it famous through centuries. Everyone can find some form of peace with nature, Wordsworth just tried to explain how to do it.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
William Blake, The little black boy
Bysshe ShelleyJohn Keats
The Little Black Boy, William Blake
The Little Black Boy, composed by William Blake is a poem of an African child coming to terms with his skin color. A skin color of blake. Blake builds the poem on clear concept of light and dark. Claiming his color within the the first stanza, "My mother bore me in the southren wild, And I am black, but O! my soul is white". Claiming his soul to be white . A poem showing the contrast of the child's black skin and his belief in the whiteness of his soul. With white being heavenly and black being devilish. The little black boy is showing he is capable and deserving of perfect love as a white person is.
The child's mother symbolizes a natural and selfless love. She shows a concern for her child's self-esteem, as well as a strong desire that he is knowledgeable of God. "Look on the rising sin: there is God does live, and gives his heat away." His mother suggests that his earthly life is but a preparation for the rewards of heaven. Basically, skin is temporary, your eternal essence is what matters. Skin, which is a factor only in this earthly life, becomes useless in heaven.
The black boy applies his mother's life lessons to his everyday. "Thus my mother say, and kissed me; When I from black and he form white cloud free".The little black boy explains to another white boy, they are equals, but that neither will be truly free until they are released from the constraints of the physical world. He even imagines himself shading and protecting his friend from the brightness of God's love until he can become accustomed to it. This helps show the black boy is more knowledge of heaven and God were mroe advanced than the white boy. Perhaps this sense of understanding is the effect of having dark skin. His mother prepared him with the knowledge of having pride in your skin color not shame. Blake however, did not give a response of the white boy.
The Little Black Boy, William Blake
The Little Black Boy, composed by William Blake is a poem of an African child coming to terms with his skin color. A skin color of blake. Blake builds the poem on clear concept of light and dark. Claiming his color within the the first stanza, "My mother bore me in the southren wild, And I am black, but O! my soul is white". Claiming his soul to be white . A poem showing the contrast of the child's black skin and his belief in the whiteness of his soul. With white being heavenly and black being devilish. The little black boy is showing he is capable and deserving of perfect love as a white person is.
The child's mother symbolizes a natural and selfless love. She shows a concern for her child's self-esteem, as well as a strong desire that he is knowledgeable of God. "Look on the rising sin: there is God does live, and gives his heat away." His mother suggests that his earthly life is but a preparation for the rewards of heaven. Basically, skin is temporary, your eternal essence is what matters. Skin, which is a factor only in this earthly life, becomes useless in heaven.
The black boy applies his mother's life lessons to his everyday. "Thus my mother say, and kissed me; When I from black and he form white cloud free".The little black boy explains to another white boy, they are equals, but that neither will be truly free until they are released from the constraints of the physical world. He even imagines himself shading and protecting his friend from the brightness of God's love until he can become accustomed to it. This helps show the black boy is more knowledge of heaven and God were mroe advanced than the white boy. Perhaps this sense of understanding is the effect of having dark skin. His mother prepared him with the knowledge of having pride in your skin color not shame. Blake however, did not give a response of the white boy.
Monday, October 29, 2007
The Romantic Period
Positive thinking was a large part of the Romantic Period. Within the era, many profound poets emerged. William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge were two of the many emerging writers. Lyrical Ballads, -William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, was published in 1798; this opened a window for many new poets.
During the Romantic era, western Europe faced many difficult radical life changes. Humans fell to technology, faster and larger quanities were needed. Therefore products began to be massed produced with machines. Hence, the industry world began to take over by technology. Most lower class children were seen as a burden. The children were used as laborers and literally worked to death. Land was being lost and people were out of control. Many famous pieces of work exploring the psychological and mysterious aspects of human life were written and published during the transition. Such as Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice, Grimm's Fairly Tales, Brothers Grim, and William Blake, Songs of Innocence. A strong vibe behind the words of these writers. Words flowing in as if from a stream with a vibe described; there is nature, and there are human beings to experience nature. Writers in this time, also wrote about connecting to the inner piece, the imagination. And the imagination is a way of desire, a motive which drives the mind to learn and know things it can not learn by rational or logical thinking.
Beginning in the last decades of the 18th century, Romanticism transformed poetry, the novel, drama, painting, sculpture, all forms of concert music, especially opera, and ballet. It was deeply connected with the politics of the time, echoing people's fears, hopes, and aspirations. Romanticism was more widespread both in its origins and influence. It was the voice of revolution at the beginning of the 19th century.
During the Romantic era, western Europe faced many difficult radical life changes. Humans fell to technology, faster and larger quanities were needed. Therefore products began to be massed produced with machines. Hence, the industry world began to take over by technology. Most lower class children were seen as a burden. The children were used as laborers and literally worked to death. Land was being lost and people were out of control. Many famous pieces of work exploring the psychological and mysterious aspects of human life were written and published during the transition. Such as Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice, Grimm's Fairly Tales, Brothers Grim, and William Blake, Songs of Innocence. A strong vibe behind the words of these writers. Words flowing in as if from a stream with a vibe described; there is nature, and there are human beings to experience nature. Writers in this time, also wrote about connecting to the inner piece, the imagination. And the imagination is a way of desire, a motive which drives the mind to learn and know things it can not learn by rational or logical thinking.
Beginning in the last decades of the 18th century, Romanticism transformed poetry, the novel, drama, painting, sculpture, all forms of concert music, especially opera, and ballet. It was deeply connected with the politics of the time, echoing people's fears, hopes, and aspirations. Romanticism was more widespread both in its origins and influence. It was the voice of revolution at the beginning of the 19th century.
Society was still getting over the aftermath of the Restoration, or the Eighteenth Century. Poems and pieces of Literature helped push more and more people through times of hurt. These writers became legends in the world of words.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Years of Plague in Review
Years of agony, mystery and death crept upon London. Ten of thousands dead every week. Dying from a diease which has many names, yet commonly known as the plauge. Society at the time of the eighteenth century, were most concerned about surviving. There was a day to day chance of gaining a token. A token is also known as a gangrene spot. Stories of the sick and the dying, from A Journal of the Plague Year, written by Daniel Defoe, describes horrific deaths in number, the grief of the people and the hardship of staying alive. "Till they found to their unspeakable surprise, the tokens come out upon them; after which they seldom lived six hours;for those spots they called the tokens",-The Infection Spread. A death which could not be stop or prevented.
Unknowing of the rats and fleas spreading the infection onto humans by the numbers. The prilivaged and wealthy fled to villages and towns surrounding London. "As particularly of person falling dead in the streets, terrible shrieks and screeching of women, who, in their agonies, would throw open their chamber window and cry out in dismal."-Dismal Scenes. Grief and sorrow filled hearts everywhere.
Hundreds and thousands of dead bodies thrown from a cart into a pit added to the massive grave already present. "The common grave of mankind, as we may call it, for here was no difference made, but poor and rich went together", -Burial Pits and Dead. London became a city of worry, and terror. Staying alive was the main focus for anyone near London during the years of the plauge. A diease that can only be discribed as a bomb. A bomb that stuck London directly in the face.
Unknowing of the rats and fleas spreading the infection onto humans by the numbers. The prilivaged and wealthy fled to villages and towns surrounding London. "As particularly of person falling dead in the streets, terrible shrieks and screeching of women, who, in their agonies, would throw open their chamber window and cry out in dismal."-Dismal Scenes. Grief and sorrow filled hearts everywhere.
Hundreds and thousands of dead bodies thrown from a cart into a pit added to the massive grave already present. "The common grave of mankind, as we may call it, for here was no difference made, but poor and rich went together", -Burial Pits and Dead. London became a city of worry, and terror. Staying alive was the main focus for anyone near London during the years of the plauge. A diease that can only be discribed as a bomb. A bomb that stuck London directly in the face.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
A Journal of the Plague Year, Daniel Defoe
Word spreads long after many dead, would be a adequate head liner for the daily newspaper. Over ten thousand lives taken per week by the plague. Peaking during August and September of 1665, the plague seemed as if this " mysterious" disease were about to overcome London. The wealthy an privileged moved to villages and towns to try and escape the horrific death.
By 1722, Daniel Defoe had published a journal, A Journal of the Plague Year. Defoe built this journal from his very own child memories, the accounts of family members and others, city records, and research. He would find more helpful information from pamphlets and books written previous years before. With the resources collected, a fictional journal travels though a time of death in number, society broken down, and London at its worst. The people of this time had no clue how or what to do to prevent this disease from spreading."Visitation never perceived that they were infected till they found their unspeakable, surprise, the tokens come out upon them; after which they seldom lived six hours"- The Infection Spreads. Society did not have the knowledge of rats and fleas being the culprit of the infection. So this mystery disease created a border line morbid eyewitness account. However, I find the journal interesting and plausible.
Quarantines were set for anyone who had been in contact with the disease. However, the law was seldom followed. For even the near death would find an escape. "I heard of one infected creature who, running out of bed in his shirt in the anguish and agony of his swelling, ....., snatching the coat from him, he threw her down, ran over her, ran downstairs and into the street...plunged into the Thames"- A Violent Cure. Memories from "survivors" helped create the sense of a realistic journal. Defoe combined history, experience, and memorabilia to have an "authentic" journal. In review, A Journal of the Plague Year, written by Daniel Defoe, was a nicely composed piece of work.
By 1722, Daniel Defoe had published a journal, A Journal of the Plague Year. Defoe built this journal from his very own child memories, the accounts of family members and others, city records, and research. He would find more helpful information from pamphlets and books written previous years before. With the resources collected, a fictional journal travels though a time of death in number, society broken down, and London at its worst. The people of this time had no clue how or what to do to prevent this disease from spreading."Visitation never perceived that they were infected till they found their unspeakable, surprise, the tokens come out upon them; after which they seldom lived six hours"- The Infection Spreads. Society did not have the knowledge of rats and fleas being the culprit of the infection. So this mystery disease created a border line morbid eyewitness account. However, I find the journal interesting and plausible.
Quarantines were set for anyone who had been in contact with the disease. However, the law was seldom followed. For even the near death would find an escape. "I heard of one infected creature who, running out of bed in his shirt in the anguish and agony of his swelling, ....., snatching the coat from him, he threw her down, ran over her, ran downstairs and into the street...plunged into the Thames"- A Violent Cure. Memories from "survivors" helped create the sense of a realistic journal. Defoe combined history, experience, and memorabilia to have an "authentic" journal. In review, A Journal of the Plague Year, written by Daniel Defoe, was a nicely composed piece of work.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Hunter S. Thompson
The beginning of my journey within the book, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, began with a quote, "This book is the final word, a brilliant vision, a terrible magnificently funny telling of what happened to this country in the 1960's"-Lucian K. Truscott IV, Village Voice. This quote earged my finishing the book. Also previously, I have saw the movie coinciding with the book. "A savage journey to the heart of the American dream", the soul storyline of both the movie and the book. This journey to fulfil the knowing of the American dream, beings and ends with a drug frenzy. However, twisted, wasted, hopped, basically stoned out of your head, life makes perfect sense. Duke, a young journalist, fresh from the drug culture of the 60s, arrives in Las Vegas, to cover the annual 1971 bikers race out in the desert with his good friend, Dr. Gonzo who is Duke's so called lawyer. Both arrive in a fancy white sports car, dubbed the Great White Shark, zonked out on drugs and intend to remain that way. Later receiving a new assignment to cover the annual Law Enforcement Meeting On Drugs. While "covering the meeting", both men generally scare the tourists, and annoy the natives. Along the way trippy situations occur, usually with our protagonists sniffing, smoking, or chewing something. They pick up a hitchhiker, ruin a hotel room, and harass a car full of poor, old Southern folk. "All under the safety of a fake name, of course." Not once during the book, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, was I lost, or uninterested. This book was a wonderful collection for the author, Hunter S. Thompson and marvelous piece of writing incorporating the way of life of an other's point of view.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
A Modest Proposal, Jonathan Swift
"A Modest Proposal for Preventing the Children of Poor People from Being a Burthen to their Parents, or the Country, and for Making them Beneficial to the Publick." This is only part of the title of the atrocious proposal of using poor country children as food. The wealthy would be able to barter for the children on size and age. This "method" would help with the poverty level, which were predominantly Catholic. Initially, this proposal was written to monk the government at the time. Proposing the idea of making money off children being sold for food. But of course there would have to be regulations. For example, children of the poor could be sold into a meat market at the age of one. With the children being sold, overpopulation and unemployment would lessen; supposedly sparing families the expense of child-bearing while providing them with a little extra income, improving the culinary experience of the wealthy, and contributing to the overall economic well-being of the nation. What an idea. Swift's form of writing was a form of satire because the idea was completely unimaginable and would never hopefully be considered. it is also described as a satire since he is "blowing out of proportion" or mocking.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Satire
A satire, is a form of mocking or imitating someone or something in an out of proportion way.
Some examples of satire are as followed, Saturday Night Live, MAD TV, Who's Line Is It Anyway, South Park, Family Guy, Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Simpsons, and King of the Hill.
Some examples of satire are as followed, Saturday Night Live, MAD TV, Who's Line Is It Anyway, South Park, Family Guy, Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Simpsons, and King of the Hill.
Monday, October 8, 2007
The "Glorious Revolution" of 1688
The overthrow of James II in 1688 was the second time during the 17th century that a Stuart king had lost his crown. However, unlike Charles I, his father, James II did not lose his head as well. It was a bloodless revolution, but nonetheless an extremely important one. The kings and queens who have succeeded to the throne since 1688 have all had to obey a set of rules imposed by the representatives of the people, that is, by Parliament. In other words, 1688 marks the end of absolutism and the beginning of Constitutional Government in England.
James the II fled in exile to France when he knew his country had abandoned him. In 1688, a son was born to James the II, but not long after they were forced to leave England. His daughter Mary and her husband the Dutch Protestant prince, William of Orange, began to rule and pursue the Protestant demonation. James II tried to connect both Catholic and Protestant, yet the people of that times were so set in their mind frame he was denied. However, this showed how much power the people had over the people ruling. Society was incharge for once.
James the II fled in exile to France when he knew his country had abandoned him. In 1688, a son was born to James the II, but not long after they were forced to leave England. His daughter Mary and her husband the Dutch Protestant prince, William of Orange, began to rule and pursue the Protestant demonation. James II tried to connect both Catholic and Protestant, yet the people of that times were so set in their mind frame he was denied. However, this showed how much power the people had over the people ruling. Society was incharge for once.
Go Ask Alice Review
"A raindrop just splashed on my forehead and it was like a tear from heaven. Am I really alone in the whole wide gray world? Is it possible that even God is crying for me? Oh no, no, no ... I'm losing my mind. Please God, help me." This entry is from Go Ask Alice, a true story of an anonymous girl and her days as a runaway drug addict in the 1960s. This 15-year-old girl comes from a middle class family. Her siblings, Tim and Alexandria, are very supportive and her father is a professor at a prominent university.
On a visit to her old town, she is invited to a party given by people she always wanted to be friends with. At the party she takes acid without her knowledge. It's hard to believe she was unaware of her first "trip." Yet, this was the start of the awful experiences of an innocent young girl taken in by the cruel, awful world of drugs.
During this time, she runs away, sells drugs and survives a group of druggies who are out to get her. On the road to recovery, she meets Joel at the college where her father works; he is someone who really cares about her.
All teenagers can relate to her life, and, after reading it, most won't ever touch drugs; it's a strong and painful story.This non-fiction book is a series of diary entries, well-written, emotional and quite destructive. Several entries discuss her sad attempt to get away from drugs. Will she make it? Or become one of thousands of drug deaths each year. You will have to find out on your own.
If you would like to read a realistic book that really covers how a teenage life can be this is the book to read. Numerous times though out the book, I could relate to the main character Alice. Yet, though everything she tries to keep a positive out look on life and what life has to offer.
On a visit to her old town, she is invited to a party given by people she always wanted to be friends with. At the party she takes acid without her knowledge. It's hard to believe she was unaware of her first "trip." Yet, this was the start of the awful experiences of an innocent young girl taken in by the cruel, awful world of drugs.
During this time, she runs away, sells drugs and survives a group of druggies who are out to get her. On the road to recovery, she meets Joel at the college where her father works; he is someone who really cares about her.
All teenagers can relate to her life, and, after reading it, most won't ever touch drugs; it's a strong and painful story.This non-fiction book is a series of diary entries, well-written, emotional and quite destructive. Several entries discuss her sad attempt to get away from drugs. Will she make it? Or become one of thousands of drug deaths each year. You will have to find out on your own.
If you would like to read a realistic book that really covers how a teenage life can be this is the book to read. Numerous times though out the book, I could relate to the main character Alice. Yet, though everything she tries to keep a positive out look on life and what life has to offer.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Tears from Earth
How can we live in this world of shame? (A)
Slowly killing the place we call home(B)
Sadly, we are to blame.(A)
the falling planet earth losing its tone.(B)
Why does no one see the shame?(A)
The Earth is not for our taking (C)
For saving the Earth is no game. (A)
Slowly Mother Earth's heart is breaking. (C)
Glaciers melt, oceans spread (D)
My home is losing power (E)
No more tears are to be shed. (D)
If we do not change our ways how is earth suppose to flower? (E)
Help start the new birth (F)
Give a hand and save planet Earth. (F)
Within my sonnet, I found my own style. Instead of using Shakespeare flow or Spencer style, I pretty much combined both to come up with Ryann's style. My rhyme is as followed, ABAB, ACAC, DEDE, FF. While writing this sonnet, I found this rhyme helped me explain the help needed from the people to save the earth. It flows and keeps with the traditional sonnet, but has my own mark. Writing this sonnet was fun and enjoyable for me to express how much the Earth is ignored.
Slowly killing the place we call home(B)
Sadly, we are to blame.(A)
the falling planet earth losing its tone.(B)
Why does no one see the shame?(A)
The Earth is not for our taking (C)
For saving the Earth is no game. (A)
Slowly Mother Earth's heart is breaking. (C)
Glaciers melt, oceans spread (D)
My home is losing power (E)
No more tears are to be shed. (D)
If we do not change our ways how is earth suppose to flower? (E)
Help start the new birth (F)
Give a hand and save planet Earth. (F)
Within my sonnet, I found my own style. Instead of using Shakespeare flow or Spencer style, I pretty much combined both to come up with Ryann's style. My rhyme is as followed, ABAB, ACAC, DEDE, FF. While writing this sonnet, I found this rhyme helped me explain the help needed from the people to save the earth. It flows and keeps with the traditional sonnet, but has my own mark. Writing this sonnet was fun and enjoyable for me to express how much the Earth is ignored.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Edmund Spencer
One day I wrote her name upon the strand, (A)
But came the waves and washed it away: (B)
Again I write it with a second hand, (A)
But came the tide, and made my pains his prey.(B)
Edmund Spencer begins his poem with a vain attempt to keep his name and his lover's name in the sand. Yet, the waves come and go and continually erase the names. This was not the way for Spencer to gain the immortal love he yerned for.
Vain man, said she, that doest in vain assay, (B)
A mortal thing so to immortalize, (C)
For I myself shall like to this decay,(B)
And eek my name be wiped out likewise.(C)
Spencer tried and defeat time by immortalize his love. He does this by writing in the sand. However, nobody can out live time. Everyone must leave the mortal world for the mystery of what comes next.
Not so, (quod I) let baser things devise (C)
To die in dust, but you shall live by fame: (D)
My verse, your virtues rare shall eternize, (C)
And in the heavens write your glorious name. (D)
Even if the body may not be eternal, words can live on. Spencer wrote this sonnet for his love in attempt to make their love everlasting.
Where when as death shall all the world subdue, (E)
Our love shall live, and later life renew. (E)
Words out live people. This poem was a way for Spencer to keep his love know a alive for centuries.
William Shakespeare Sonnet 60
"Like as the waves make towards the pebbled shore, (A)
So do our minutes hasten to their end;(B)
Each changing place with that which goes before,(A)
In sequent toil all forwards do contend. (B)
Within the the first quatrain, it is written the waves make towards the pebbled shore so do our minutes hasten to their end. The pebbled shore can be interpreted as minutes. As each pebble moves with the waves it is as if minutes rolled away.
Nativity, once in the main of light, (C)
Crawls to maturity, wherewith being crown'd,(D)
Crooked elipses 'gainst his glory fight,(C)
And Time that gave doth now his gift confound.(D)
Every dawn the sun rises which brings new life. The sun is a symbol of life; rises to its peak. "Crawls to maturity, wherewith being crown'd. Mid-day is the high point which symbolizes the peak in life, whether good or bad. Crooked ellipses, shows hard times, trial and turmoil. And finally bringing the day to an end, death.
Time doth transfix the flourish set on youth (E)
And delves the parallels in beauty's brow,(F)
Feeds on the rarities of nature's truth,(E)
And nothing stands but for his scythe to mow:(F)
Nothing can escape time. For time will show on one's self. Beauty is fun to have but do not think nature can not take it away. Eventually time will out last all. Nothing can stop time from moving forward.
And yet to times in hope my verse shall stand,(G)
Praising thy worth, despite his cruel hand."(G)
Time may beat all, but Shakespeare is going to try and go with time with this sonnet. The "cruel hand" is the hand of time and Shakespeare has so far stuck with time through million of readers.
So do our minutes hasten to their end;(B)
Each changing place with that which goes before,(A)
In sequent toil all forwards do contend. (B)
Within the the first quatrain, it is written the waves make towards the pebbled shore so do our minutes hasten to their end. The pebbled shore can be interpreted as minutes. As each pebble moves with the waves it is as if minutes rolled away.
Nativity, once in the main of light, (C)
Crawls to maturity, wherewith being crown'd,(D)
Crooked elipses 'gainst his glory fight,(C)
And Time that gave doth now his gift confound.(D)
Every dawn the sun rises which brings new life. The sun is a symbol of life; rises to its peak. "Crawls to maturity, wherewith being crown'd. Mid-day is the high point which symbolizes the peak in life, whether good or bad. Crooked ellipses, shows hard times, trial and turmoil. And finally bringing the day to an end, death.
Time doth transfix the flourish set on youth (E)
And delves the parallels in beauty's brow,(F)
Feeds on the rarities of nature's truth,(E)
And nothing stands but for his scythe to mow:(F)
Nothing can escape time. For time will show on one's self. Beauty is fun to have but do not think nature can not take it away. Eventually time will out last all. Nothing can stop time from moving forward.
And yet to times in hope my verse shall stand,(G)
Praising thy worth, despite his cruel hand."(G)
Time may beat all, but Shakespeare is going to try and go with time with this sonnet. The "cruel hand" is the hand of time and Shakespeare has so far stuck with time through million of readers.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Edmund Spencer
One question can trigger intfinate answers. Edmund Spencer began his sonnet with the question of how he can love one person so greatly. "My love is like to ice, and I to fire; How comes it then that this her cold so great Is not dissolved through my so hot desire, But harder grows the more I her entreat?" Spencer uses ice and rain as personification of himself and his lover. A perfect way to describe how different, yet alike they are.
However, his love may be infitnate but is not recieve. For the love of his world does not feel the same. Her heart is distant and cold. Yet, his love for her is stronger than ever. "Or how comes it that my exceeding heat. Is not delayed by her heart frozen cold, But that I burn much more in boiling sweat, And feel my flames augmented manifold?" The love is so powerful, Spencer compares it to fire. To show how much affection he has for this one person.
Her heart has no place for Spencer, and yet his love burns inside him more and more as each day rolls by. "What more miraculous thing may be told. That fire which all thing melts, should harden ice,And ice which is congealed with senseless cold, Should kindle fire by wonderful device?" For endless amount he sends and recieve nothing in return. Does this prevent the love sicken puppy?
If you give love you will gain peace. There is always hope. "Such is the power of love in gentle mind, That it can alter all the course of kind." Love is a mighty force. I firmly believe love can alter nature's intended way. And this is what Spencer is showing the world with this sonnet.
However, his love may be infitnate but is not recieve. For the love of his world does not feel the same. Her heart is distant and cold. Yet, his love for her is stronger than ever. "Or how comes it that my exceeding heat. Is not delayed by her heart frozen cold, But that I burn much more in boiling sweat, And feel my flames augmented manifold?" The love is so powerful, Spencer compares it to fire. To show how much affection he has for this one person.
Her heart has no place for Spencer, and yet his love burns inside him more and more as each day rolls by. "What more miraculous thing may be told. That fire which all thing melts, should harden ice,And ice which is congealed with senseless cold, Should kindle fire by wonderful device?" For endless amount he sends and recieve nothing in return. Does this prevent the love sicken puppy?
If you give love you will gain peace. There is always hope. "Such is the power of love in gentle mind, That it can alter all the course of kind." Love is a mighty force. I firmly believe love can alter nature's intended way. And this is what Spencer is showing the world with this sonnet.
William Shakespeare Sonnet
William Shakespeare beings his sonnet with the question, "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" Only to answer his own question explaining, the beauty of a person compared to a summer's day would not do justice. "Thou art more lovely and more temperate...And summer's lease hath all to short a date." For this person is more beautiful than summer; and summer will soon come to an end as all seasons will. Yet, this beautiful, lovely person will not lose their significances.
"Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines, And often is his gold complexion dimmed." The bright summer sun can be dimmed by clouds. As everything considered beautiful will lose the attraction."And every fair from fair sometimes declines,By chance, or nature's changing course untrimmed." Nothing can keep it's beauty forever, in Shakespeare's mind. Time and natural will take it course.
However, within the third section of Shakespeare's sonnets, he backs up what he had written in the first section. "But thy eternal summer shall not fade, Nor lose possession of that fair thou owest, Nor shall Death brag thou wander'st in his shade. When in eternal lines to time thou grow'st. For death can not even stop him now; and the beauty live on forever within the lines of Shakespeare's words.
To end Shakespeare answers his own question; "for long as men can breathe, or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and gives life to thee." One person's beauty can give one the motivation to keep going. Love is all, is you can find love you are a lucky person, but love is hard to hold on to.
"Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines, And often is his gold complexion dimmed." The bright summer sun can be dimmed by clouds. As everything considered beautiful will lose the attraction."And every fair from fair sometimes declines,By chance, or nature's changing course untrimmed." Nothing can keep it's beauty forever, in Shakespeare's mind. Time and natural will take it course.
However, within the third section of Shakespeare's sonnets, he backs up what he had written in the first section. "But thy eternal summer shall not fade, Nor lose possession of that fair thou owest, Nor shall Death brag thou wander'st in his shade. When in eternal lines to time thou grow'st. For death can not even stop him now; and the beauty live on forever within the lines of Shakespeare's words.
To end Shakespeare answers his own question; "for long as men can breathe, or eyes can see,
So long lives this, and gives life to thee." One person's beauty can give one the motivation to keep going. Love is all, is you can find love you are a lucky person, but love is hard to hold on to.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Sonnets
Sonnets are written with a distinct rhyme scheme. In William Shakespeare's sonnet, he does not carry a line more than one quadrant. In Spencer's case, he takes for one quadrant and uses it in the next. I believe this would be a greater challenge for a writer to take on. With the example provided, Shakespeare carried his sonnet with an ABAB style and finished with a CDCD, EE. However, in Spencer's case his sonnet begins with ABAB and concludes with EFEF, GG. Edmund Spencer is my preference over Shakespeare; for his writing falls closer to how i would write. I enjoy the flow, it as if it could slowly go on for ever.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Stephen Chbosky
Stephen Chbosky
Hands down, this is the most endearing book I've ever read. What makes it great is the amazing characterization of the lovable Charlie. This is most definitely a book you can not put down. Chbosky has the most honest way of writing. The text is simple and easy to read, complementing Charlie's character. Through his letters to any reader, Charlie's world of innocence, literature, first-time drug use, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," sex, and growing up is unraveled in Charlie's own letters. Chbosky creates a relationship between the reader and Charlie, so that it seems Charlie is writing directly to the reader.This book has been compared to The Catcher in the Rye and A Separate Peace, but it is not a tale of a depressed, teenager in search of himself while criticizing the rest of the world. Rather, it is the narrative of a unique young "wallflower," one who "sees things, keeps quiet about them ... and understands," and looks for an honest world to live in. Through out his freshman year, Charlie grows from a naive child to an independent and thoughtful character with the guidance of an English teacher and two seniors. Charlie's mind is far from simple, and he faces many obstacles including death in his family, dating, drugs, rape, suicide and his strong emotions. By conquering these, Charlie becomes an even stronger character.On the first page, Charlie says that he "just needs to know that someone out there listens and understands and doesn't try to sleep with people even if they could have." This book immediately hit a connection with me because Charlie has a way of putting life in words. There is a little part of Charlie in everyone. After reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower, I assure you that Charlie will be with you forever.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Any form of writing will reflect its surroundings. The Canterbury Tales was written during the medieval time period. To began with, when you think medieval times you think kings, queens, death by judgement, and power. "That dampned was this knyght for to be deed,
By cours of lawe, and sholde han lost his heed", lines 897-898. Monarch was most definitely in power. For the king and queen decide who is to live and die under their rule. Also during this time period the church was still slowly but surly incorporating God into most stories. "And come agayn right at the yeres ende,With swich answere as God wolde hym purveye;And taketh his leve, and wendeth forth his weye", lines 922-923. Lastlty, the knight in the tale ends the story with the right way to please his wife. "My lady and my love, and wyf so deere,I put me in youre wise governance. Cheseth yourself, which may be moost plesance And moost honour to yow and me also.I do no fors the wheither of the two; For, as yow liketh, it suffiseth me" lines 1236- 1241. In every story there is a hidden meaning. The knight learned from his mistakes and lived a happy life with the help of a good hearted person.
By cours of lawe, and sholde han lost his heed", lines 897-898. Monarch was most definitely in power. For the king and queen decide who is to live and die under their rule. Also during this time period the church was still slowly but surly incorporating God into most stories. "And come agayn right at the yeres ende,With swich answere as God wolde hym purveye;And taketh his leve, and wendeth forth his weye", lines 922-923. Lastlty, the knight in the tale ends the story with the right way to please his wife. "My lady and my love, and wyf so deere,I put me in youre wise governance. Cheseth yourself, which may be moost plesance And moost honour to yow and me also.I do no fors the wheither of the two; For, as yow liketh, it suffiseth me" lines 1236- 1241. In every story there is a hidden meaning. The knight learned from his mistakes and lived a happy life with the help of a good hearted person.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The Wife of Bath's Tale
The Wife of Bath's tale begins with a knight, who fell to lust and raped a beautiful young maiden. The king ordered a death, however the queen insists to give the ill faithed knight another chance. With the king's approval, the queen sent the knight on a mission. His mission, to answer one question. The knight starts his mission with the question, what do women want most in the world. After one year the knight must report his findings to the court. If he is correct he is spared his life, but if found wrong, off with the head.
The knight immediately beings his search for the answer. With every woman in his path, he would question, what do woman want most in the world? As the women answer, his worst fear became a reality. Every answer was different. The knight began homeward in vain. Upon entering the forest, the knight saw a small group of ladies dancing among a fire. He decides this is his last chance to live. As he neared the ladies, they ran away in fear. All except an ugly old woman. Upon his arrival the woman asks if she can help him with anything. The knight then promises the woman he will marry her if she saves him. Both agree and travel to the courts.
The knight and the old woman arrive from their travel to the court, where, the knight tells the queen the answer with which the old woman told him. What women most desire is to be in charge of their husbands and lovers. The women agree that this is the answer, and the queen spared the knight’s life. The old ugly woman proceeded to ask her knight for her hand in marriage in front of everyone. The knight cried out in horror. He begged her to take his material possessions rather than his body, but she refused, and finally the knight agreed to wed by force. Later that day, the knight and the old ugly lady were wed; that very night they consecrated their vow. During this special night, the woman asked the knight why he was so sad. With his response came two insults. Firstly, the fact he was married to her and secondly that she was horrifically unattractive. Surprisingly, the woman ignored the knight's bashing and began to explain to the knight; would he rather be with a young, beautiful, unfaithful woman or a loyal, good hearted woman, who will be by your side. The knight sat in silence then explained his trust in her judgement for the right answer. He left her with the most desired thing among woman. The authority to chose for herself. The two lived a long happy marriage, happy with each other.
The Wife of Bath concludes her story with a plea for woman to gain young husbands who can keep her happy in the bedroom. And the desire to out live the husband. The Wife of Bath's Tale in general summed up the Wife of Bath's opinion in general.
The knight immediately beings his search for the answer. With every woman in his path, he would question, what do woman want most in the world? As the women answer, his worst fear became a reality. Every answer was different. The knight began homeward in vain. Upon entering the forest, the knight saw a small group of ladies dancing among a fire. He decides this is his last chance to live. As he neared the ladies, they ran away in fear. All except an ugly old woman. Upon his arrival the woman asks if she can help him with anything. The knight then promises the woman he will marry her if she saves him. Both agree and travel to the courts.
The knight and the old woman arrive from their travel to the court, where, the knight tells the queen the answer with which the old woman told him. What women most desire is to be in charge of their husbands and lovers. The women agree that this is the answer, and the queen spared the knight’s life. The old ugly woman proceeded to ask her knight for her hand in marriage in front of everyone. The knight cried out in horror. He begged her to take his material possessions rather than his body, but she refused, and finally the knight agreed to wed by force. Later that day, the knight and the old ugly lady were wed; that very night they consecrated their vow. During this special night, the woman asked the knight why he was so sad. With his response came two insults. Firstly, the fact he was married to her and secondly that she was horrifically unattractive. Surprisingly, the woman ignored the knight's bashing and began to explain to the knight; would he rather be with a young, beautiful, unfaithful woman or a loyal, good hearted woman, who will be by your side. The knight sat in silence then explained his trust in her judgement for the right answer. He left her with the most desired thing among woman. The authority to chose for herself. The two lived a long happy marriage, happy with each other.
The Wife of Bath concludes her story with a plea for woman to gain young husbands who can keep her happy in the bedroom. And the desire to out live the husband. The Wife of Bath's Tale in general summed up the Wife of Bath's opinion in general.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Monday, September 10, 2007
Canterbury tales
The Canterbury Tales
List of Pilgrims
The Knight
The first of the main characters is the knight. The knight is roundly described "Who, from the moment that he first began. To ride about the world, loved chivalry,truth, honour, freedom and all courtesy." Dressed in a simple cloth tunic this knight is a brave strong hearted person; who will fight for what he believes is right. A perfect knight.
The Squire
A son in his early twenties, who is a man of average strength and height, escorts his dad on this journey. The squire is characterized as "A lover and a lively bachelor, wondrously active, agile, and great of strength." This ever merry man sings, writes and draws.
The Yeoman
The Yeoman is a man clothed in a green hood and coat. He is camouflaged with his surroundings. On his person he is armed with his bow and arrow. A person who can only be described as Robin Hood, "bore a horn, the baldric all of green; A forester he truly was."
The Monk
Fur from the finest of lands lined the selves of this monk. The top of his head shinned bright as if it was glass in the sun. This man of the cloth hunts game for fun and enjoys a good feast. "Fat was this lord, he stood in goodly case. His bulging eyes he rolled about, and hot They gleamed and red, like fire beneath a pot". A man who's eyes were described as if they were burning.
The Friar
One word can sum up this "man of the cloth", this word is corrupt. Many everyday chores for this Friar become ways to help himself only. A life fit for a man not like himself. Illustrated as "with the worthy women living in the city: For his power of confession met no equality". Without money the corrupt Friar embraced bribes as penance.
The Merchant
A man of buying and selling as his occupation finds himself broke. However, no one knows and he does not intend to let anyone find out. His dress described, "In motley gown, and high on horse he sat, Upon his head a Flemish beaver hat; His boots were fastened neatly and elegantly." Not very noticeable this well dress merchant seems to know what he is doing.
The Clerk
Riding on a horse thin as a rake, this temperate man does not weight very much himself. Wearing an old worn coat this clerk may not have much money but he is ready for what is to come in life for him. "Filled with moral virtue was his speech; And gladly would he learn and gladly teach. And short and lively, and full of high morality." His studies come first above, which show in his amount of money in his possession. Yet, he sounds as if he understands money is not everything.
The Sergeant of the Law
"He rode but simply in a medley coat, Girded with a belt of silk, with little bars, But of his outfit no more particulars"; this quote from the Canterbury Tales characterizes the Sergeant of the Law. He is said to be undoubtedly wise and well spoken. he high reputation could be accountable for being able to write a contract and have not errors within his writings.
The Franklin
Food could keep this man company. For the Franklin enjoys to eat; I can rightly assume he quite enjoys indulging with food. "White was his beard as is the white daisy.Of sanguine temperament by every sign, He loved to dip his morning bread in wine." This previous sheriff slash tax auditor keeps food and wine stocked for his reasons.
The Shipman
A captain of the Madeleine, this sailor is fully knowledgeable about his job. For every waterway he knew. Yet in the story it is stated "He sadly rode a carthorse, in a gown, Of thick woolen cloth that reached unto the knee. A dagger hanging on a cord had he". His conscience eating away at him for reasons unknown to me. A man of the ocean face and skin browned from the sun
The Physician
The physician is a doctor with great instructed in astronomy. For a number of his patients, he uses natural science to remedy the sick. For he supposedly knows the cause of his patient sickness always."Blue and scarlet his clothes were there withal,Lined with taffeta and with sendal". On his person the doctor carries his apothecaries. To be prepared for anything.
The Wife of Bath
The Wife of Bath is a woman of five past husband and capped tooth mouth. "Wearing a large wimple, and over all a hat As broad as is a buckler or a targe; An over skirt was tucked around her buttocks large,And her feet spurred sharply under that". Love is the Wife of Bath's game, she knew how to laugh and be merry for she knew all the tricks in the book when it comes to love.
The Miller
Big boned and strongly built, the miller was also a jester who knew some poetry. Although his form of poetry is more perverted and sinful to others. "He was stoutly built, broad and heavy; He lifted each door from its hinges, that easy, Or break it through, by running, with his head." A red bread surrounded his large mouth. His clothes cons its of a blue hood and a white coat.
List of Pilgrims
The Knight
The first of the main characters is the knight. The knight is roundly described "Who, from the moment that he first began. To ride about the world, loved chivalry,truth, honour, freedom and all courtesy." Dressed in a simple cloth tunic this knight is a brave strong hearted person; who will fight for what he believes is right. A perfect knight.
The Squire
A son in his early twenties, who is a man of average strength and height, escorts his dad on this journey. The squire is characterized as "A lover and a lively bachelor, wondrously active, agile, and great of strength." This ever merry man sings, writes and draws.
The Yeoman
The Yeoman is a man clothed in a green hood and coat. He is camouflaged with his surroundings. On his person he is armed with his bow and arrow. A person who can only be described as Robin Hood, "bore a horn, the baldric all of green; A forester he truly was."
The Monk
Fur from the finest of lands lined the selves of this monk. The top of his head shinned bright as if it was glass in the sun. This man of the cloth hunts game for fun and enjoys a good feast. "Fat was this lord, he stood in goodly case. His bulging eyes he rolled about, and hot They gleamed and red, like fire beneath a pot". A man who's eyes were described as if they were burning.
The Friar
One word can sum up this "man of the cloth", this word is corrupt. Many everyday chores for this Friar become ways to help himself only. A life fit for a man not like himself. Illustrated as "with the worthy women living in the city: For his power of confession met no equality". Without money the corrupt Friar embraced bribes as penance.
The Merchant
A man of buying and selling as his occupation finds himself broke. However, no one knows and he does not intend to let anyone find out. His dress described, "In motley gown, and high on horse he sat, Upon his head a Flemish beaver hat; His boots were fastened neatly and elegantly." Not very noticeable this well dress merchant seems to know what he is doing.
The Clerk
Riding on a horse thin as a rake, this temperate man does not weight very much himself. Wearing an old worn coat this clerk may not have much money but he is ready for what is to come in life for him. "Filled with moral virtue was his speech; And gladly would he learn and gladly teach. And short and lively, and full of high morality." His studies come first above, which show in his amount of money in his possession. Yet, he sounds as if he understands money is not everything.
The Sergeant of the Law
"He rode but simply in a medley coat, Girded with a belt of silk, with little bars, But of his outfit no more particulars"; this quote from the Canterbury Tales characterizes the Sergeant of the Law. He is said to be undoubtedly wise and well spoken. he high reputation could be accountable for being able to write a contract and have not errors within his writings.
The Franklin
Food could keep this man company. For the Franklin enjoys to eat; I can rightly assume he quite enjoys indulging with food. "White was his beard as is the white daisy.Of sanguine temperament by every sign, He loved to dip his morning bread in wine." This previous sheriff slash tax auditor keeps food and wine stocked for his reasons.
The Shipman
A captain of the Madeleine, this sailor is fully knowledgeable about his job. For every waterway he knew. Yet in the story it is stated "He sadly rode a carthorse, in a gown, Of thick woolen cloth that reached unto the knee. A dagger hanging on a cord had he". His conscience eating away at him for reasons unknown to me. A man of the ocean face and skin browned from the sun
The Physician
The physician is a doctor with great instructed in astronomy. For a number of his patients, he uses natural science to remedy the sick. For he supposedly knows the cause of his patient sickness always."Blue and scarlet his clothes were there withal,Lined with taffeta and with sendal". On his person the doctor carries his apothecaries. To be prepared for anything.
The Wife of Bath
The Wife of Bath is a woman of five past husband and capped tooth mouth. "Wearing a large wimple, and over all a hat As broad as is a buckler or a targe; An over skirt was tucked around her buttocks large,And her feet spurred sharply under that". Love is the Wife of Bath's game, she knew how to laugh and be merry for she knew all the tricks in the book when it comes to love.
The Miller
Big boned and strongly built, the miller was also a jester who knew some poetry. Although his form of poetry is more perverted and sinful to others. "He was stoutly built, broad and heavy; He lifted each door from its hinges, that easy, Or break it through, by running, with his head." A red bread surrounded his large mouth. His clothes cons its of a blue hood and a white coat.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
The Black Plague
Early in the 1330s, an outbreak of deadly bubonic plague occurred in China. The bubonic plague mainly affects rodents, but fleas can transmit the disease to people. Once people are infected, they infect others very fast. The plague causes fever and a painful swelling of the lymph glands. The glandes are called buboes. This is how the plague got its name. The disease also causes spots on the skin that are red at first and then turn black. With China being one of the busiest of the world's trading nations, it was only a matter of time before the outbreak of plague in China spread to western Asia and Europe. In October of 1347, several Italian merchant ships returned from a trip to the Black Sea. The Black Sea was one of the main sea routes with China. When the ships docked in Sicily, many of those on board were already dying of plague. Within days, the plague had spread to the city and the countryside. Between 1347 and 1352, over 25 million people died in under five years. It is believed to have wiped out two thirds of the population. The plague was a hard blow to the population also it affected the everyday lives of the people. It especially affected the Roman Catholic Church and influenced people to live in the moment which caused havoc. The black plague was one of the biggest epidemics in human history.
The Magna Carta
The Magna Carta, or Great Charter, is a document created for the purpose of limiting the powers of the monarch and preserving the basic legal rights of all free men in England. This document was created firstly, to protect only the rich or upper class. The document was called a rebellion in 1215. A rebellion against King John of England. King John was a corrupt leader who did not agree with the Magna Carta. He pretty much made everyone angry under his power expect those who believed in absolute monarchy. On June 19th, a bill similar to the Bill of Rights was issued, the Magna Carta. Land owners and barons help create the Magna Carta. Originally, the bill was intended to protect only the rich and upper class. Many interpretations by leaders and politicians were created for years after the bill was designed. With each leader the Magna Carta slowly began to apply to more and more groups of people. Sir Edward Coke, a 17th century British Secretary of State, helped American colonists by applying them in the bill also. The American colonists believed the government was violating the basic rights granted to them in the charter. They were being taxed without representation. This led to the creation of the Declaration of Independence by the American colonists. Monarch in Britain was the center until the Magna Carta was established. Nobody could violate this bill, not even the royal family or the king. The Magna Carta set a turning point for democracies of today.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
The Murder of Thomas Becket
The year 1118, the place, Normandy, a son was born to an English merchant. A child named Thomas Becket. Thomas Becket was raised in a life of semi luxury. His family was "well off". For his father was formally Sheriff of London. This advantage may have not served him as well as he thought. For he was sent to Paris for his education and from there to England where he joined the household of Theobold, the then Archbishop of Canterbury. With the knowledge and charm gained, his skills advanced him forward. The archbishop sent him to Paris to study law and with his return made him Archdeacon of Canterbury. In the year 1154, Becket was introduced to King Henry II. King Henry and Becket were close acquaints when Archbishop Theobold died in the year 1161. King Henry saw the power to be gain over the church and anointed his loyal advisor, Becket to be ordain as Bishop. The same afternoon, June 2, 1162, Thomas Becket became Archbishop of Canterbury. King Henry anointed Becket in aspect of gaining control. Becket began to favor the church and chose the church over the king. Becket kept his alliance to the church. After this dispute, Becket fearing his life, fled to France where he remained in exile for six years. December 29, four knights arrived in Canterbury and immediately searched for the Archbishop. Becket fled to the Cathedral where mass was taking place. After being found at the alter, the knights drew their swords and began hacking at their victim finally splitting his skull. Miracles were reported at the at the tomb of the martyr. Four years after Becket's death, King Henry II, walked barefoot through the streets of Canterbury while eighty monks flogged him with branches. It is also said the king slept in the tomb of Thomas Becket to try and gain some sense of absolution.
The Crusades
During the year 1093, Pope Urban II, received word of the Turks attacking Christian pilgrims under Alexius Comnenus rule. Before this Pope Urban II, had established "The Truce of God". This "Truce of God" was a law which forbid any fighting from Sunday to Wednesday, and banned fighting involving priests, monks, women, laborers and merchants at any time. After receiving word from emperor, Alexius Comnenus; Pope Urban II, decided this was an opportunity not to pass up. Along with the local problems he could kill two birds with one stone. The first was to rescue the Christians of the East.The second goal was the liberation of Jerusalem and the other places made holy by the life of Christ. Pope Urban himself, advanced a Holy Crusade to recover the Holy Lands from the barbarian Turks. 1096 CE, the first of many began, The First Crusade. France, Italy and England were all involved in helping gaining back the holy lands.The Latin Orient, or Levant modernly know as Israel was being fought over purely for the land. This land was suppose to be "the land of milk and honey". Over this many promises and alliances were broken. And slowly the Crusades became history.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Beowulf led a honorable life. His life goal was either of two scenarios; one, to make himself look as good as possible before he died by preforming such heroic tasks or two, he simply did these honorable acts to make the world a better place. Either way, Beowulf made a difference in the lives of his people. Beowulf will die with a story, a legend.
"A path led underneath unknown to men.But a certain man stumbled on it,into the heathen hoard,and took a cup,a large, decorated treasure.The dragon did not hide his opinion of that deed;the neighboring people quickly learned his anger." A dragon is simply angry because a person came and stole his possessions from his own house. Anyone in this situation would be angry. If someone stole your private possessions how would you feel? This puts some controversy on whether it was right for Beowulf to go and defend his people. When his people where the one in the wrong. But Beowulf did not care. Something was threatening his people and he was going to do something abo0ut it.
Age does not pass anyone. In Beowulf's case, he does not seem to think his age is a factor. "He held it well, ruled fifty winters; he was an old land guardian."After these fifty winters, Beowulf steps up to the plate to try and defeat a dragon. "a dragon began to rule,he who guarded a hoard, a steep stone burial mound high on the heath." But why would Beowulf try and defeat this dragon at his old age? One word, loyalty. He knows this dragon is harming his people's way of life, therefore he wants to do something about it. Even if it takes his life. Why would he die in his sleep if he could die defeating a dragon? The chance was worth the risk.
Beowulf died and was honored as a heroic man. Year after year schools teach his story an I have not doubt why. It is a story of loyalty, love, and passion for life. Beowulf was a person who simply was loyal to the people he love and kept fighting for life at an old age. What more could you want in a person?
"A path led underneath unknown to men.But a certain man stumbled on it,into the heathen hoard,and took a cup,a large, decorated treasure.The dragon did not hide his opinion of that deed;the neighboring people quickly learned his anger." A dragon is simply angry because a person came and stole his possessions from his own house. Anyone in this situation would be angry. If someone stole your private possessions how would you feel? This puts some controversy on whether it was right for Beowulf to go and defend his people. When his people where the one in the wrong. But Beowulf did not care. Something was threatening his people and he was going to do something abo0ut it.
Age does not pass anyone. In Beowulf's case, he does not seem to think his age is a factor. "He held it well, ruled fifty winters; he was an old land guardian."After these fifty winters, Beowulf steps up to the plate to try and defeat a dragon. "a dragon began to rule,he who guarded a hoard, a steep stone burial mound high on the heath." But why would Beowulf try and defeat this dragon at his old age? One word, loyalty. He knows this dragon is harming his people's way of life, therefore he wants to do something about it. Even if it takes his life. Why would he die in his sleep if he could die defeating a dragon? The chance was worth the risk.
Beowulf died and was honored as a heroic man. Year after year schools teach his story an I have not doubt why. It is a story of loyalty, love, and passion for life. Beowulf was a person who simply was loyal to the people he love and kept fighting for life at an old age. What more could you want in a person?
A hero is someone in my opinion who is doing the good whatever the motive. A hero can be a teacher, a writers,a firefighter, a tree hugger, a judge, anyone. Since the world we live in is so selfish we are not going to have many heroes. Nobody wants to make an effort to make someone else's life better when they can try and fix their own. Who needs help right?? Or simply in the day of age I live in, people do not know what the good of the people is anymore. Times were quite more simple in Beowulf's time where being strong would bring a person closer to being a hero. "But a warrior of Hygelac's heard of Grendel's doings;he was the strongest of men alive in that day,mighty and noble." These words describe Beowulf. First thought, strong and ready to make a change. But can you think of someone other than super heroes who have made a significant impact? Names that may come to mind are Mother Theresa, Gandhi, etc. These people made a change and it was a good one. Beowulf made changes also that benefit the world. Yet, most were not appreciated in their own time. However, Beowulf was shown his love he helped create among his people. The people appreciated his care and devotion to their way of living. Not many true heroes today get that small thing called appreciation. In today's world, a hero can come from anything, whether he or she is saving thousands of lives or saving a single tree. Everyone has the power to become a hero, yet many do not many pursue.
Beowulf is a story of a hero, Beowulf hence the title, saves a kingdom from a deadly foe. A kingdom which has been tortured by a outcast most er known as Grendel. In the Anglo-Saxon time period, war and protecting loved ones was a major influance of everyday life. Beowulf is described as "But a warrior of Hygelac's heard of Grendel's doings;he was the strongest of men alive in that day,mighty and noble." This is a perfect description of a warrior. Oral story tellers would of course make the warrior the strongest of men, mighty and noble for this is what a person would want in a warrior.
Loyalty was also a large role during the time fame of this story. Loyalty to the family, friends, and loved ones made a tremendous difference in the everyday lives of the Anglo-Saxons. "My father was a leader well known among the people: Edgtheow." Pride was taken in the family. As show above, Beowulf is proud of his father and his accomplishments. This therefore, drives Beowulf to do something amazing and heroic with his life. To try and live up to his father's and his own standard.
In the life of Beowulf, he welcome death if the time arises. He knows if he dies he would be known for the good and not the evil. And yet in the face of death he moves forward. This is an amazing virtue to have. "Each of us must await the end of this life. He who wishes will work for glory before death." This quote is very true to its word. The Anglo-Saxons incorporated the way people should be and what they should think and feel in their lives. And the readers followed it. Today, students world wide read this story of Beowulf. You can gain from anything you read. It is they way you take in what you are reading that makes the difference. The Anglo-Saxons knew this. What way would be better than to produce something everyone enjoys, a good story.
Loyalty was also a large role during the time fame of this story. Loyalty to the family, friends, and loved ones made a tremendous difference in the everyday lives of the Anglo-Saxons. "My father was a leader well known among the people: Edgtheow." Pride was taken in the family. As show above, Beowulf is proud of his father and his accomplishments. This therefore, drives Beowulf to do something amazing and heroic with his life. To try and live up to his father's and his own standard.
In the life of Beowulf, he welcome death if the time arises. He knows if he dies he would be known for the good and not the evil. And yet in the face of death he moves forward. This is an amazing virtue to have. "Each of us must await the end of this life. He who wishes will work for glory before death." This quote is very true to its word. The Anglo-Saxons incorporated the way people should be and what they should think and feel in their lives. And the readers followed it. Today, students world wide read this story of Beowulf. You can gain from anything you read. It is they way you take in what you are reading that makes the difference. The Anglo-Saxons knew this. What way would be better than to produce something everyone enjoys, a good story.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
The ancient bed-time story, Beowulf, captures the essence of the Anglo-Saxon time period and incorporates ideas of the super natural. A story combined with good and evil fighting till death. A death both good and evil will welcome due to the extreme loyalty both creatures have.
Many reflections of the Anglo-Saxon period are shown within the story of Beowulf. The main reflection is the life of the warrior. Protection is needed from the risk of invaders in England hence stories of warriors seemed to be more attractive than stories of romance or love. Horror and bravery are the focus of the story Beowulf. The Anglo-Saxons worship two main gods; Odin, the god of death, poetry and magic and Thor, the god of war and protector of each warrior's eternal resting spot and treasure. Later monks added Christianity to the stories as they were being recorded. The Christan monks were first to take away from the tradition of the Anglo-Saxon's oral story telling.
From beginning to end, the story is filled with description and depth. In the episode, Beowulf hears of Grendel, descriptions such as the follow were easy on the eye of imagination. "on the waves under the cliffs and the warriors stood at the prow as the water wound against the sand. The word flow and variations in this story are very nice to follow as you read. During battles the descriptions were mind catching. Told with great detail of blood and horror. "but set about seizing a sleeping warrior unawares and bit into his bone locks,drinking the streams of blood,then swallowing huge morsels of flesh. Quickly he ate that man,even to his hands and feet." These words explain what horror Grendel has put on a man and this is how it unfortunately happened. But have no fear, Beowulf will save the day. Quickly Beowulf over powering Grendel scares the monster back to his lair.
"Ignorance is bliss" is not the case in Grendel. Poor Grendel was rised by a huge dragon mother. Of course he is a monster in the everyday person's life. Especially since Grendel meals were the people under Hrothgar reign. Hrothgar was bound to find a way to take back power. Little did Grendel know soon he would hang high within the walls of Herot.
The story of Beowulf has been and always will be a good classic story to read. Reading this story is very capturing and engages me into a time period every time I read it. From the way it was written to the references of the Anglo- Saxon time period, Beowulf is a stretch of the imagination. A stretch everyone should have.
Many reflections of the Anglo-Saxon period are shown within the story of Beowulf. The main reflection is the life of the warrior. Protection is needed from the risk of invaders in England hence stories of warriors seemed to be more attractive than stories of romance or love. Horror and bravery are the focus of the story Beowulf. The Anglo-Saxons worship two main gods; Odin, the god of death, poetry and magic and Thor, the god of war and protector of each warrior's eternal resting spot and treasure. Later monks added Christianity to the stories as they were being recorded. The Christan monks were first to take away from the tradition of the Anglo-Saxon's oral story telling.
From beginning to end, the story is filled with description and depth. In the episode, Beowulf hears of Grendel, descriptions such as the follow were easy on the eye of imagination. "on the waves under the cliffs and the warriors stood at the prow as the water wound against the sand. The word flow and variations in this story are very nice to follow as you read. During battles the descriptions were mind catching. Told with great detail of blood and horror. "but set about seizing a sleeping warrior unawares and bit into his bone locks,drinking the streams of blood,then swallowing huge morsels of flesh. Quickly he ate that man,even to his hands and feet." These words explain what horror Grendel has put on a man and this is how it unfortunately happened. But have no fear, Beowulf will save the day. Quickly Beowulf over powering Grendel scares the monster back to his lair.
"Ignorance is bliss" is not the case in Grendel. Poor Grendel was rised by a huge dragon mother. Of course he is a monster in the everyday person's life. Especially since Grendel meals were the people under Hrothgar reign. Hrothgar was bound to find a way to take back power. Little did Grendel know soon he would hang high within the walls of Herot.
The story of Beowulf has been and always will be a good classic story to read. Reading this story is very capturing and engages me into a time period every time I read it. From the way it was written to the references of the Anglo- Saxon time period, Beowulf is a stretch of the imagination. A stretch everyone should have.
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