Discuss the dependence of the "littleuns" on the bigger children. Also focus on further division in the group and the balance or imbalance of power.
-The “littluns” act as leeches
-Rely on the older children for nourishment and shelter
-Very short attention spans (one minute they are eagerly helping the older children, another minute they are laughing and playing, rolling over logs)
-Give respect where respect is due
-Rely on older children as a source of comfort and security
-Divisions:
littluns vs. older boys
Jack vs. Ralph
Jack vs. Simon and Ralph
Jack, Simon, Ralph vs. Piggy and the littluns
Piggy vs. Ralph
the hunters vs. everyone else
realistic vs. naïve
hardworkers vs. slackers
beastie vs. all the boys
nature vs. all the boys
-Power struggle
-Jack killing the beast boosts his pride (Gives him a sense of authority)
-Ralph has done nothing to prove himself worthy of his position as leader (Feeble huts)
-End of order
-No longer following the rules of the conch
-Conch was once a symbol of authority and structure, but now losing its power
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Jane Eyre Point of View Exercise
From the text:
“Hitherto, while gathering up the discourse…went to my heart like a dagger.” (62)
My re-write:
“Hitherto, while gathering up the discourse of Mr. Brocklehurst and Miss Temple, Jane had not, at the same time, neglected precautions to secure her personal safety; if she could only elude observation. To this end, Jane sat well back on the form, and while pretending to be busy with her sum, she held her slate in a position that concealed her face. She would have escaped notice, had not her treacherous slate happened to slip from her hands. It fell with an obtrusive crash, directly drawing every eye upon her. Her facial expression was that of distress as she stopped to pick up the two fragments of slate; her face then instantly changed as if she was aware of the scolding that was to come.
‘A careless girl!’ said Mr. Brocklehurst, and immediately after—‘It is the new pupil, I perceive. I must not forget I have a word to say respecting her.’ Then aloud for all to hear, Jane cringing, ‘Let the child who broke her slate come forward!’
Jane seemed paralyzed for she did not move. Two great girls sitting on either side of Jane set her on her legs and pushed her towards the dread judge. Miss Temple gently assisted Jane to his very feet. Miss Temple whispered in Jane’s ear as to give her courage; however, Jane’s disposition expressed disappointment and fear.”
Analysis:
Although Jane still remains the protagonist, we are not exposed to Jane’s personal feelings of fear, resentment, anger, or whatever else she may be feeling. Her countenance and disposition give way to her emotions; however, we can only assume what her sentiments truly are. Miss Temple does appear to be an encouraging and supportive figure, but by whispering, she also seems to be going against that who is above her and acts as her superior. In this scene, Mr. Brocklehurt is portrayed to be an enforcer. We have yet to form opinions of this man because we do not have the bias view of Jane telling us what to feel. Because of this, Mr. Brocklehurst looks as if he is simply doing his job as a disciplinarian. The plot, along with my interpretation of the novel, changes with the change in perspective when taking into account Jane’s unfortunate condemnation. With third person, we are not aware of Jane’s innocence. We simply see her actions, but also hear Mr. Brocklehurst’s accusations. Opinions can only be formed with Jane’s actions and who she proves her self to be as expressed by Miss Temple: “We shall think you what you prove yourself to be, my child. Continue to act as a good girl, and you will satisfy us." (67).
“Hitherto, while gathering up the discourse…went to my heart like a dagger.” (62)
My re-write:
“Hitherto, while gathering up the discourse of Mr. Brocklehurst and Miss Temple, Jane had not, at the same time, neglected precautions to secure her personal safety; if she could only elude observation. To this end, Jane sat well back on the form, and while pretending to be busy with her sum, she held her slate in a position that concealed her face. She would have escaped notice, had not her treacherous slate happened to slip from her hands. It fell with an obtrusive crash, directly drawing every eye upon her. Her facial expression was that of distress as she stopped to pick up the two fragments of slate; her face then instantly changed as if she was aware of the scolding that was to come.
‘A careless girl!’ said Mr. Brocklehurst, and immediately after—‘It is the new pupil, I perceive. I must not forget I have a word to say respecting her.’ Then aloud for all to hear, Jane cringing, ‘Let the child who broke her slate come forward!’
Jane seemed paralyzed for she did not move. Two great girls sitting on either side of Jane set her on her legs and pushed her towards the dread judge. Miss Temple gently assisted Jane to his very feet. Miss Temple whispered in Jane’s ear as to give her courage; however, Jane’s disposition expressed disappointment and fear.”
Analysis:
Although Jane still remains the protagonist, we are not exposed to Jane’s personal feelings of fear, resentment, anger, or whatever else she may be feeling. Her countenance and disposition give way to her emotions; however, we can only assume what her sentiments truly are. Miss Temple does appear to be an encouraging and supportive figure, but by whispering, she also seems to be going against that who is above her and acts as her superior. In this scene, Mr. Brocklehurt is portrayed to be an enforcer. We have yet to form opinions of this man because we do not have the bias view of Jane telling us what to feel. Because of this, Mr. Brocklehurst looks as if he is simply doing his job as a disciplinarian. The plot, along with my interpretation of the novel, changes with the change in perspective when taking into account Jane’s unfortunate condemnation. With third person, we are not aware of Jane’s innocence. We simply see her actions, but also hear Mr. Brocklehurst’s accusations. Opinions can only be formed with Jane’s actions and who she proves her self to be as expressed by Miss Temple: “We shall think you what you prove yourself to be, my child. Continue to act as a good girl, and you will satisfy us." (67).
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Essential #9
How do Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein compare and contrast as men, scholars, and scientists?
Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein were both desirous for success and possessed a sense of determination in the advancement of their knowledge. Robert Walton, from a very young age read about sailors and explorers that achieved greatness, and longed to become one of them. Similarly, from when Victor Frankenstein was a toddler, he read about scientists and their great discoveries. This led to Victor’s ardent curiosity to discover the world’s hidden secrets. Both men seemed to value their families. This is depicted from the very beginning when the author commences the reading with Robert’s letters to his sister Margaret. In these letters, Robert searches for encouragement and confides in her, things that are apparently important to him such as his desire for companionship: “I desire the company of a man who could sympathise with me; whose eyes would reply to mine…I bitterly feel the want of a friend” (Shelley 4). The author sheds light on Victor’s familial appreciation when he begins his tale explaining the meeting of his parents. The reader is also introduced to his cousin Elizabeth, a very important part of Victor’s life: “my more than sister—the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures” (17). Robert and Victor differed when it came to friendship. Robert yearned for a friend whereas Victor tended to “avoid a crowd, and [] attach [himself] fervently to few” (19). The men also differed as scholars. Robert was a self-educated English sailor, poet, and captain of his ship. Victor was born and raised in Geneva and focused his attention on science: “chemistry, in the most comprehensive sense of the term, became nearly my sole occupation” (29). The men certainly had similarities and differences; however, because Victor's puruit resulted in despair and Robert's destiny has yet to be fulfilled, the comparison of the men's final outcome is unknown.
Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein were both desirous for success and possessed a sense of determination in the advancement of their knowledge. Robert Walton, from a very young age read about sailors and explorers that achieved greatness, and longed to become one of them. Similarly, from when Victor Frankenstein was a toddler, he read about scientists and their great discoveries. This led to Victor’s ardent curiosity to discover the world’s hidden secrets. Both men seemed to value their families. This is depicted from the very beginning when the author commences the reading with Robert’s letters to his sister Margaret. In these letters, Robert searches for encouragement and confides in her, things that are apparently important to him such as his desire for companionship: “I desire the company of a man who could sympathise with me; whose eyes would reply to mine…I bitterly feel the want of a friend” (Shelley 4). The author sheds light on Victor’s familial appreciation when he begins his tale explaining the meeting of his parents. The reader is also introduced to his cousin Elizabeth, a very important part of Victor’s life: “my more than sister—the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures” (17). Robert and Victor differed when it came to friendship. Robert yearned for a friend whereas Victor tended to “avoid a crowd, and [] attach [himself] fervently to few” (19). The men also differed as scholars. Robert was a self-educated English sailor, poet, and captain of his ship. Victor was born and raised in Geneva and focused his attention on science: “chemistry, in the most comprehensive sense of the term, became nearly my sole occupation” (29). The men certainly had similarities and differences; however, because Victor's puruit resulted in despair and Robert's destiny has yet to be fulfilled, the comparison of the men's final outcome is unknown.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Essential #8
Are Katherine and Petruchio in love?
Considering the many interpretations of love, one can be certain that “love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant” (1 Corinthians 13:4). When it comes to the case of Katherine and Petruchio, their relationship does not fall into this understanding. The relationship is unbalanced. Petruchio is certainly not patient with Kate but acts as a dictator if Katherine were to go against his word: “She ate no meat today, nor none shall eat. Last night she slept not, nor tonight she shall not” (4.1.197-8). He takes a dominant role in the relationship because of monetary motives, which is further depicted when he bets on Katherine's loyalty. Katherine, on the other hand, has become extremely docile and obedient. Her patience is seen in her submissive responses to Petruchio: “What you will have it named, even that it is, and so shall be so for Katherine” (4.5.24-5). The reason for Katherine’s prior malicious and spiteful behavior is not clear; however, she may have put up defenses not to keep others down, but to see who was willing to fight through the barriers, and that is what Petruchio did. For that reason, Katherine is in love with Petruchio, but Petruchio is in love with money.
Considering the many interpretations of love, one can be certain that “love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant” (1 Corinthians 13:4). When it comes to the case of Katherine and Petruchio, their relationship does not fall into this understanding. The relationship is unbalanced. Petruchio is certainly not patient with Kate but acts as a dictator if Katherine were to go against his word: “She ate no meat today, nor none shall eat. Last night she slept not, nor tonight she shall not” (4.1.197-8). He takes a dominant role in the relationship because of monetary motives, which is further depicted when he bets on Katherine's loyalty. Katherine, on the other hand, has become extremely docile and obedient. Her patience is seen in her submissive responses to Petruchio: “What you will have it named, even that it is, and so shall be so for Katherine” (4.5.24-5). The reason for Katherine’s prior malicious and spiteful behavior is not clear; however, she may have put up defenses not to keep others down, but to see who was willing to fight through the barriers, and that is what Petruchio did. For that reason, Katherine is in love with Petruchio, but Petruchio is in love with money.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Essential #7
Do you think that Hamlet has created his own insanity or has he lost his sense of reality completely?
Hamlet has neither created his own insanity nor has he lost his sense of reality. He is simply attempting to carry out his late father’s wishes and does this by devising his own personal scheme to act as though he is insane so he will not be at fault for any rash behavior that may be rendered. Hamlet’s act of stabbing Polonius; however, was not part of this plot, but rather in act out of impulse and rage—not insanity. Hamlet was overwhelmed with emotion and did not suppress it. This is ironic because prior to this scene, Hamlet praises his best friend Horatio for his ability to act with reason over emotion: “blessed are those whose blood and judgment are so well commeddled” (3.2.72-74). With this blanket of emotional distress clouding Hamlet’s rationale and initial motives, it is clear to King Hamlet that his son’s promise was slow to come about and returns to snap him out of his overpowering rage.
Hamlet has neither created his own insanity nor has he lost his sense of reality. He is simply attempting to carry out his late father’s wishes and does this by devising his own personal scheme to act as though he is insane so he will not be at fault for any rash behavior that may be rendered. Hamlet’s act of stabbing Polonius; however, was not part of this plot, but rather in act out of impulse and rage—not insanity. Hamlet was overwhelmed with emotion and did not suppress it. This is ironic because prior to this scene, Hamlet praises his best friend Horatio for his ability to act with reason over emotion: “blessed are those whose blood and judgment are so well commeddled” (3.2.72-74). With this blanket of emotional distress clouding Hamlet’s rationale and initial motives, it is clear to King Hamlet that his son’s promise was slow to come about and returns to snap him out of his overpowering rage.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Essential 6
What parallels can be drawn between the Pardoner's Prologue and his tale? How is this tale different from the other two that we have studied? Think in regards to the Pardoner's voice and how Chaucer's style changes.
In the prologue, the Pardoner tells of his fraudulence in all that he does. Essentially, the pardoner is called to be a Man of God, a preacher, one who guides others. However, this is not the case. Through his preaching, the Pardoner does not try to free his followers of sin, but finds means to take revenge on those who have hurt him. He preaches for pecuniary gain, rather than spiritual gain. The Pardoner bluntly states, “I make my living out of avarice”, but then preaches against these offenses (245). Similarly, the tale tells the story of three young men that suffered consequences because they immersed themselves in sinful acts such as indulgence, avarice, and debauchery. The pardoner is certainly guilty of these same sins. The tale differs from the previous tales we have read because it is told in a type of satirical manner where the Pardoner ironically attempts to convey a meaning of purity when he is obviously not. Also, in every other tale, the taletellers were personified through their stories. The Pardoner’s tale, on the other hand, sheds light on the importance of avoiding sinful acts; as he makes his living based on sinful acts.
In the prologue, the Pardoner tells of his fraudulence in all that he does. Essentially, the pardoner is called to be a Man of God, a preacher, one who guides others. However, this is not the case. Through his preaching, the Pardoner does not try to free his followers of sin, but finds means to take revenge on those who have hurt him. He preaches for pecuniary gain, rather than spiritual gain. The Pardoner bluntly states, “I make my living out of avarice”, but then preaches against these offenses (245). Similarly, the tale tells the story of three young men that suffered consequences because they immersed themselves in sinful acts such as indulgence, avarice, and debauchery. The pardoner is certainly guilty of these same sins. The tale differs from the previous tales we have read because it is told in a type of satirical manner where the Pardoner ironically attempts to convey a meaning of purity when he is obviously not. Also, in every other tale, the taletellers were personified through their stories. The Pardoner’s tale, on the other hand, sheds light on the importance of avoiding sinful acts; as he makes his living based on sinful acts.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Essential #4
Choice 2: Where do we see seduction and lust start to destroy Gawain, our young hero? What is the author trying to tell us?
Honor and nobility define the society in which Gawain lives in. It is evident that Gawain’s actions and choices revolve around such virtues, as we can see when he describes the five knightly virtues by which he lives by: friendship, generosity, courtesy, chastity, and piety. Because Gawain is chivalrous and yearns to uphold these ideals, he takes on the challenge the Green Knight puts forth. After realizing he has been tricked, Gawain remains courageous and is determined to go through with the agreement in order to fulfill his knightly duty. During his journey to the Green Knight’s chapel when staying at the castle, he falls for several temptations failing to uphold his virtues.
Seduction and lust begin to destroy Gawain from when he foolishly accepts the Green Knight's game to when he rejects his chivalric ideals and succumbs to the host’s wife’s allurement. When considering this affair, it leads one to question how Gawain will fulfill the agreement made with the host: “Whatever I win in the woods I will give you at eve, and all you have earned you must offer me” (lines 1106-1107). Gawain is certainly unable to do so. All the tests, games, and agreements included in this poem are the author’s means of shedding light on the importance of applying virtue to personal choice. The author emphasizes the importance of choice; the choice to uphold the virtues embedded into one's character or in a sense, lose everything as a result of discarding these ideals.
Honor and nobility define the society in which Gawain lives in. It is evident that Gawain’s actions and choices revolve around such virtues, as we can see when he describes the five knightly virtues by which he lives by: friendship, generosity, courtesy, chastity, and piety. Because Gawain is chivalrous and yearns to uphold these ideals, he takes on the challenge the Green Knight puts forth. After realizing he has been tricked, Gawain remains courageous and is determined to go through with the agreement in order to fulfill his knightly duty. During his journey to the Green Knight’s chapel when staying at the castle, he falls for several temptations failing to uphold his virtues.
Seduction and lust begin to destroy Gawain from when he foolishly accepts the Green Knight's game to when he rejects his chivalric ideals and succumbs to the host’s wife’s allurement. When considering this affair, it leads one to question how Gawain will fulfill the agreement made with the host: “Whatever I win in the woods I will give you at eve, and all you have earned you must offer me” (lines 1106-1107). Gawain is certainly unable to do so. All the tests, games, and agreements included in this poem are the author’s means of shedding light on the importance of applying virtue to personal choice. The author emphasizes the importance of choice; the choice to uphold the virtues embedded into one's character or in a sense, lose everything as a result of discarding these ideals.
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