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.

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.

Rule of Relationships

1. Trust is key. Do not overreact and jump to conclusions, nor assume anything because most likely you are wrong. With no trust, the relationship lacks one of the fundamental components that lead to a successful bond.

2. Make sure to communicate. You cannot expect her to read your mind. You must be fully capable of articulating your needs.

3. Spend the right amount of time with her. It is okay to spend time with friends and family; however, always make the effort to make time for her. By doing this, you are showing your appreciation for the relationship you have.

4. Treat her like the queen she is. Whether it is through speech, gifts, hugs, or something as simple as the way you hold her hand.

5. Compromise. Relationships are supposed to be give and take. If only one person is compromising in a relationship, it’s not a relationship.

6. Make an attempt to get along with her friends and family. The people she is closest with usually have a huge influence in her life and could be deciding on the future of the relationship.

7. Values. The two of you should have shared/set values. It makes the time that you share easier, because you both have the same values.

8. Prayer. As Tyler Perry says, “A couple that prays together stays together!”

9. Don’t take things too seriously. Try to make the relationship as fun as possible, but also knowing when to stop.

10. Cherish her for who she is and who she’s not. From her beauty, her intelligence, her hopes, her dreams, to her flaws, her corny jokes, her bad hair days, and everything in between.

Beowulf: Essential #2

Discuss the role of women in Beowulf. How do Wealtheow and Grendel's mother compare and contrast in their roles?

In Beowulf, women play fundamental roles within the society. They are depicted as extremely hospitable and docile within the margins of a patriarchal rule. Their sense of self worth and purpose in life are shown to be in accordance with being of service to their husbands. This best describes Wealhtheow, the wife of Hrothgar. In the text, we are first introduced to Wealhtheow as “adorned with gold, that proud woman greeted the men in the hall, [and] offered the cup” (Lines 606-607). We see her as friendly and amiable toward her guests; however, not only is she bejeweled, Wealhtheow is walking around the room carrying the cup to Hrothgar and then immediately to Beowulf, as a recognition of rank. It was her responsibility to carry out such subservient actions during those times.

In addition, Beowulf presents certain women as monsters, contrary to Wealhtheow’s character. Grendel’s mother can be placed in this category. She plays a more masculine role, rather than being adorned with jewelry and being of service to a particular ruler. Her masculinity and physical strength exert influence upon the society. She is extremely violent and settles her disputes through aggressive means. Grendel’s mother instills fear while; Wealhtheow instills comfort and happiness throughout the society.

Beowulf: Essential #1

What are the social obligations of a hero? Is Beowulf aware of his deification process?

The social obligations of a leader are bravery and dedication to ones people. A hero must be willing to protect its people while also moving them forward by prosperous means. In Beowulf it is said that Scyld Scefing “terrified his foes…until the men of every neighboring tribe…were obliged to obey him and pay him tribute” (Lines 6-10). It is clear that a leader must be willing to destroy those against him and his people and in return acquire “praise and honor” (Line 8). Also, a leader must be valiant in military battles, which can be attributed to Hrothgar. He “won honor in war, glory in battle, and so ensured his followers’ support” (Line 64-66). Due to his willingness to give of himself in war, it can be understood that a hero must be other-centered in order to ensure safety among his community. A leader must also be stern yet compassionate, bold yet kind, and give orders but also be considerate. Furthermore, we can come to the conclusion that through such social obligations, he “who wins renown will always prosper among any people” (Line 24-25).

Beowulf is certainly aware of his deification process. However, unlike several men, Beowulf has a sense of humility in his acknowledgment of his deification process. In the beginning of the poem, “Beowulf searched out the bravest of the Geats, asked them to go with him” (Lines 205-206). If he was not aware of his honor and might, Beowulf would have not made such a long journey in order to be of service to Hrothgar. Beowulf explains that he has come “with most honorable intentions” (Line 265) which sheds light on his modest disposition and also his confidence in the fact that he can be of great aid. Beowulf’s daring and poised nature certainly gives way to the understanding that he is indeed aware of his becoming idealized and adored.

Pride and Prejudice Essay

Macda Gerard
AP English 11: Mr. George
17 April 2009
Pride & Prejudice Essay

In “a world of social, moral and economic stability…where characters are free to make their own choices and pursue their hearts’ desires” (Austen XIII) happiness is rare. Throughout the novel Pride and Prejudice, the world of valuing social stability and making choices stimulates the emerging of marital motives. Society does not provide many choices for unmarried women as they age, which forces many to seek marriage with the understanding that contentment may later arrive as long as they are secured. Through acting on their hearts’ desires, some women hold a disposition that attract them to pursue a mercenary marriage or perhaps a prudential marriage in order to insure security; however, a marriage based on love is most favorable and results in security but also ultimate happiness.

In the novel, women are highly encouraged to marry as soon as possible: “Young women should always be properly guarded and attended, according to their situation in life” (Austen 208). Women did not commonly receive inheritance from their fathers; instead, entails were often passed down to the sons of families. With the lack of pecuniary aid, it created limited options for a comfortable single lifestyle. This entailed living with relatives as a dependent or residing with employers and taking on jobs such as a teacher or housekeeper. Many women sought eagerly to marry in order to avoid such inauspicious lifestyles and gain security through finances and beneficial rewards. Marriage became the only way out of said situations often resulting in desperation to gain a husband through financial and practical motives.

Many characters were willing to marry simply because marriage was the only means of obtaining financial security. Throughout the novel, Wickham is clearly demonstrated as having motives pertaining to money or other rewards for marrying. When speaking of Wickham’s relations with Miss King, it is evident that he simply wanted her for a financial gain: “But he paid her not the smallest attention till her grandfather’s death made her mistress of this fortune?” Furthermore, in regards to Wickham’s relationship with Lydia, it is evident that he had no intention of marrying her. However, the rogue married Lydia after Darcy offered an amount of money that would guarantee him an opportunity for a job and the absolution of debts. Wickham certainly was not alone in his mercenary beliefs.

Mrs. Bennet certainly had mercenary motives pertaining to her daughters. She felt it was her ultimate purpose to marry her daughters solely to their advantage. However, in doing so, she was depicted as extremely shallow and insatiable: “[Mrs. Bennett’s] thoughts and her words ran wholly on those attendants of elegant nuptials, fine muslins, new carriages, and servants" (226). And on Elizabeth's marriage she exclaims: "What pin-money, what jewels, what carriages you will have! ... A house in town! ... Ten thousand a year!” (365-366). Mrs. Bennet ceased to judge by first impression or civility and solely took into account how much the men were worth, which would be the crux of her judgment toward the men. Contrary to seeking pecuniary aid from marriage, many also look to practical matters as well.

A prudent marriage implies that there is a practical sense to the union. Many seek to marry for prudent motives with the sole intention of being content and satisfied. Mr. Collins exemplifies these motives through his initial proposal to Lizzy: “I think it a right thing for every clergyman in easy circumstances (like myself) to set the example of matrimony in his parish” (105). Throughout the desperate attempts to acquire her approval, Mr. Collins does not once mention love. This was simply a pretense of passion working as a masquerade for his practical desire of marriage. This clearly demonstrates that his sole purpose of obtaining a wife was to ensure that she was provided for, disregarding emotion within the marriage.

Charlotte seeks a prudent marriage as a way of securing her lasting contentment. This is clearly expressed by Charlotte, whose pragmatic views on marrying are articulated countless times: “Without thinking highly either of men or of matrimony, marriage had always been her object; it was the only honorable provision for well-educated young women of small fortune, and however uncertain of giving happiness, must be their pleasantest preservative from want” (122). In marrying Mr. Collins, she achieves this but does not expect ultimate happiness: “Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of choice” (24). Her intent of marrying was not to achieve extreme happiness but to achieve satisfaction. While this may indeed be sensible, other motives for marrying may result in a more gratifying end.

Marrying for love is certainly prevalent among characters in the novel. Bingley and Jane traveled a long journey before attaining their ultimate happiness. Due to the fact that Bingley was in love with Jane, he did not hesitate to step down from his high social standing to meet hers. However, because of a misunderstanding, Jane and Bingley were separated, causing Jane great sorrow. Later on, Bingley took it upon himself to return and continue his courtship of Jane. He proposed to her choosing to disregard any opinions his sisters may have had. Regardless of what may have seeped through the cracks of their love, it is genuine and will remain unchanged.

The greatest illustration of ultimate happiness is demonstrated through Darcy’s strive for Lizzy’s hand in marriage. Darcy’s love did not act as a motive solely to marry her, but also pushed him to overcoming obstacles. With a shaky start beginning at the Meryton Ball, “She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me” (13), prejudices arose and trickled throughout their relationship. Nevertheless, Darcy proves his undying love for Lizzy by humbling himself and paying for Lydia and Wickham’s marriage, along with paying for Wickham’s debt, and providing him with a job despite the fact that Darcy loathes him. Darcy disregards the disapproval of others and sets aside the fact that he is of a higher social standing and proclaims his love to Lizzy by proposing.

In both love marriages, Bingley and Darcy undergo leaps and bounds to achieve their goal of obtaining a wife that completes them. In regards to Jane and Lizzy, not only do love marriages bestow a sense of enduring happiness upon each couples, it also provides them with lasting contentment and financial security. All had to face ridicule at some point; however, their love prevails over all condemnation. Love marriages result in ultimate happiness and more, whereas prudential and mercenary marriages tend to border contentment and certainly never come into proximity of the ultimate happiness and contentment experienced in love marriages. “Love is the condition in which happiness of another person is essential to your own.” (Robert Heinlein). Love trumps all.

Lady Catherine

Lady Catherine’s overbearing behavior proved to be a direct reflection of how highly she valued the ludicrous and absurd class system making her apathetic to the opinions of others.

If one were to approach Lady Catherine, it would not be out of the ordinary if she were to treat the person as if he were her footstool. Lady Catherine’s high ranking in the class system gave her the understanding that she may treat anyone as she pleased. This snobbish heiress assumed everyone would treat her with utmost reverence; however, Elizabeth shattered this fantasy after Lady Catherine attempted to discourage Darcy and Elizabeth’s engagement: “Lady Catherine seemed quite astonished at not receiving a direct answer; and Elizabeth suspected herself to be the first creature who had ever dared to trifle with so much dignified impertinence” (Austen 165). Lady Catherine was not accustomed to having her judgment questioned, and often took it upon herself to inquire in an offensive manner about subject matters that were none of her business. Embodying the most perverse form of pomposity, she valued those who consistently flattered and praised her opinions regardless of if they were the most irrational and unfair remarks one has ever heard.

Lady Catherine is like a peacock. Just as Lady Catherine flaunts her affluence and high social status to maintain a sense of superiority, a peacock flares out brilliant tail feathers for all to see. It comes across as extremely ostentatious to such an extent that it belittles others around. With every strut, either a sense of jealousy or admiration is evoked through what or in Lady Catherine’s case, who, is around. Also, in order to obtain attention, a loud obnoxious cry is often emitted, which certainly applies to Lady Catherine’s consistent need to obnoxiously comment on what has absolutely nothing to do with her.

Arrogance is to Lady Catherine as egocentricity is to P Diddy in that both feel as though all must grovel for their approbation believing that whatever they say is law.

Elizabeth

Elizabeth Bennet, the protagonist of Pride and Prejudice, was known for being the wittiest, most insightful, and most intelligent amongst her sisters.

Elizabeth held qualities of lively wit, honesty, and frankness that enabled her to stand apart from her family and rise above the haughty and condescending behavior that existed in such a classist society. Elizabeth is seen as an insightful and levelheaded sister who sees people for who they really are. She acts as a driving force that attempts to have Jane, her older sister, see others in the same light and dissuade her from thinking that "all the world is respectable" (Austen 134). Despite Elizabeth’s virtues, she also had a tendency to formulate unfair judgments on first impressions, which would result in disaster in regards to her relationship with Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth’s candor and first impression of Darcy forces her to reject Darcy’s initial marriage proposal. However, as she gradually came to recognize the rectitude of Darcy’s motives, she also came to terms with the error of her false judgment of his character.

Elizabeth is like a lie detector. Just as Elizabeth is confident and can easily see the inconsistency of human beings, the lie detector can determine what is true and what is false. Lie detectors, however, hold a certain percentage of accuracy in their calculations along with a percentage of possible error. In regards to Elizabeth, at times, correct judgments were made; nevertheless, erroneous judgments also came about. Though lie detectors hold the accountability for being correct and induce a confidence among its users, they can be flawed.

Frankness is to Elizabeth what honesty is to Oprah in that both women have the confidence to be outspoken and exert their opinions regardless of what others think of them.

P&P #13: Ch. 10-12

“ I fancy, Lizzy, that obstinacy is the real defect of his character after all” (313).

• In the past few chapters, Darcy is depicted as more than perfect, to the point where even one negative trait results in good actions. Rather than be a play on words, this quotation could be considered as a play on “comprehension”. Darcy insists that he personally provide Mr. Wickham and Lydia with pecuniary aid. After doing so, Darcy was also adamant in regards to making Mr. Gardiner take the credit for such a good deed. Obstinacy is often understood to be a negative or haughty characteristic. It is usually deemed as disrespectful or condescending. However, within the context, it is evident that obstinacy becomes a form of humility. Austen elucidates the reasoning behind Darcy’s obstinacy, which forces the reader to conclude that the sole “defect” Darcy possesses results in positive and constructive works which makes Darcy even more unbelievably perfect.
  

Multiple Choice:

Which quotation best describes Mrs. Gardiner’s opinion of Darcy?

A) “His behavior to us has, in every respect, been pleasing as when we were in Derbyshire. His understanding and opinions all please me” (315)
B) “I must say that I hate the very sight of him” (323).
C) “Silent, grave and indifferent” (328).
D) “Everybody declared that he was the wickedest young man in the world; and everybody began to find out, that they had always distrusted the appearance of his goodness” (285).
E) “His countenance, voice, and manner, had established him at once in the possession of every virtue” (203).

P&P #12: Ch. 7-9

“To know that her daughter would be married was enough. She was disturbed by no fear for her felicity, nor humbled by any remembrance of her misconduct” (296).

• While Mr. Bennet is extremely grieved by the incident of Lydia’s sudden act of irrational and irresponsible behavior, Mrs. Bennet is overjoyed at simply the fact that her daughter is getting married. Mrs. Bennet is blind to disobedience and whore-like behavior as long as marriage is the result. This clearly demonstrates that Mrs. Bennet has indeed, made her purpose, or obsession, in life to marry off her daughters regardless of how it may come about. She is careless in her means of raising her daughters because instead of reprimanding Lydia for her wrongdoing, she congratulates her. Mr. Bennet, acting extremely fair and reasonable, chooses to stand his ground and not show affection whatsoever toward the marriage of Lydia and Wickham (300). Nevertheless, Mrs. Bennet, “was more alive to the disgrace, which her want of new clothes must reflect on her daughter’s nuptials, than to any sense of shame at her eloping and living with Wickham a fortnight before they took place” (300). It is evident that with having such an upbringing where marriage was always seen as priority, we can only conclude that Mrs. Bennet should be to blame for Lydia running off and ruining her life.
  

Multiple Choice:

Who is Elizabeth referring to in the following passage?

“She began to comprehend that he was exactly the man who, in disposition and talents, would most suit her. His understanding and temper, though unlike her own, would have answered all her wishes” (301).

A) Mr. Wickham
B) Mr. Darcy
C) Mr. Collins
D) Mr. Gardiner
E) Mr. Hurst

P&P #11: Ch. 3-6

“That loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable, that one false step involves her in endless ruin, that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful, and that she cannot be too much guarded in her behaviour towards the undeserving of the other sex” (280).

• We do not come across Mary very often in the text; however, when she speaks it is often very insightful. She is known to be an intelligent reader that keeps to herself. When reading this passage, it is evident that Mary has intelligent explanations. She is indeed younger than both Jane and Lizzy, nevertheless, her intelligence level can be considered to have exceeded her age. She explicates Lydia’s situation as being a lesson to be learned so no one may commit the same mistake. Mary also illustrates one of the common themes in the novel—impressions. The society is extremely focused on social structure and how one is obligated to act. If this is not done, people will often speak badly of that person, which will eventually destroy their reputation. Just as, if the citizens are aware of how the marriage came about, people would begin to speak badly of not only her but her entire family. Lydia obviously did not think of the damage she would be causing. This could be considered a common case of the moral triangle where Lydia allowed for the end to justify the means.
  

Multiple Choice:

What type of emotion does Mr. Bennet evoke through the following passage?

“ ‘Say nothing of that. Who should suffer but myself? It has been my own doing, and I ought to feel it’” (289).

A) Guilt because he feels responsible for allowing Lydia to go
B) Anger because he had personally told her not to go
C) Sarcastic Happiness because he does not care for the foolish acts of his family
D) Indifferent because Lydia is marrying into wealth
E) None of the above

Huck Finn Essay

Macda Gerard
AP English 11: Mr. George
March 25, 2009
Huck Finn Essay

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2) Societal constraints have been a large influence on Huck’s life and behavior, but that soon changes with the renewal of his mind. In the novel, society is displayed as unjust and excessive. Miss Watson forced Huck to eat, speak, and think properly against his will. Pap allowed Huck to escape the formality of society, while still constraining Huck through his lenient influence, but also his violent nature. Both were responsible for molding Huck’s decision making, but also hindering his ability to think for himself up until he rids himself of the differing views and creates his own path. Society is demanding of Huck’s conformity, but ultimately fails, which gives him the opportunity of acting outside of the corrupted society.

Huck finds felicity and contentment in the woods because that is where he was raised and feels most comfortable. He did not have the luxury of attending school, nor of having nice clothes, so when such things are offered to him, Huck feels constricted and uncomfortable:
“The Widow Douglas she took me for her son, and allowed she would sivilize me; but it was rough living in the house all the time, considering how dismal regular and decent the widow was in all her ways; and so when I couldn't stand it no longer I lit out. I got into my old rags and my sugar-hogshead again, and was free and satisfied” (Twain 9).
At Miss Watson’s house, Huck was forced to act with great propriety and attend school. Proper etiquette and education were of the utmost importance, and valued over what Huck was taught by his father. One can hold the supposition that being educated and instructed on proper etiquette is what Miss Watson and the Widow Douglas believed was truly best for Huck; however, this does not prevent him from going against these restrictions and reverting back to what he is accustomed to.

Pap was indeed lenient in raising Huck; however, he was also partly responsible for influencing Huck’s decisions. Society calls for a high sense of propriety and good manners, but Pap and Huck were certainly lacking: “I didn’t want to go back no more. I had stopped cussing, because the widow didn’t like it; but now I took to it again because pap hadn’t no objections. It was pretty good times up in the woods there, take it all around” (34). Huck could do and say whatever he pleased without having to walk on eggshells. His rebellion against the proper rules and regulations of society is a direct result of the fact that he was not born into such a system. Nonetheless, Pap certainly held societal influenced beliefs that contributed to Huck formulating his own views.

Miss Watson and Pap unquestionably have differing opinions and values regarding a child’s upbringing. Pap shows this when recognizing that Huck is attending school: “You’re educated, too, they say; can read and write…I’ll take it out of you. Who told you you might meddle with such hifault’n foolishness, hey?” (29). Pap does not value education and good manners, while Miss Watson’s sole attempt for the betterment of Huck was through proper etiquette and education. While offering a contrasting view on manners, both Miss Watson and Pap share the same societal view about slavery.

With the enormous disparity of beliefs between Pap and Miss Watson, it is difficult to grasp how they could possibly agree on anything. Nonetheless, they both share common beliefs regarding slavery. Society teaches that slavery is acceptable and a necessity. It makes blacks subordinate to whites regardless of if a white man is at the top or bottom of the class structure. With Miss Watson and Pap disagreeing on the good part of society, but agreeing on the shameful aspects of society, one is forced to question the sensibleness of the belief. Slavery is such an abominable practice and for Miss Watson to disagree on the good and agree on owning human being, it makes slavery seen absurd. These influences certainly aid in Huck’s formulation of his own ideas.

Huck goes off on his own escaping societal pressures, and later finds refuge with Jim on the river. In every decision Huck makes, it is evident that he draws on the influences of Miss Watson and Pap, often attempting to find a mean between the disparate views. Doing so is not always successful and simply forces him to formulate his own morals and values: “Well, I says to myself at last, I’m agoing to chance it; I’ll up and tell the truth this time, though it does seem most like setting down on a kag of powder and touching it off just to see where you’ll go to” (200). Huck’s muddled moral process was unclear solely because of the many influences he had in his life. However, it is clear that Huck overcomes his muddled thought process and decides to go out on a limb and tell the truth for once: “here’s a case where I’m blest if it don’t look to me like the truth is better, and actuly safer, than a lie” (200). Huck forming his own thoughts can also be seen through his relationship with Jim.

Huck had always understood, from both Miss Watson and Pap, that slavery was a standard practice that was acceptable. However, when hearing such different views on other matters, and finally hearing an agreement on the subject of slavery, Huck is forced to reevaluate slavery and create his own opinion. Informing Tom of his plan, “ ‘You’ll say it’s a dirty low-down business; but what if it is—I’m low down; and I’m agoing to steal him, and I want you to keep mum and not let on’” (240), Huck is blatantly choosing to act against what society deems to be normal.

With the onset of Huck’s moral dilemma, he took on others’ opinions in decision making and determining what was good and bad. Escaping such influences placed Huck outside of society, which gave him the opportunity to make independent decisions. Huck’s bad upbringing gives him the opportunity to be just in an unjust society, ultimately resulting in his independence.

P&P #10: Ch. 19-2

“Her thoughts were all fixed on that one spot of Pemberly House, whichever it might be, where Mr. Darcy then was. She longed to know what at that moment was passing in his mind; in what manner he thought of her, and whether, in defiance of everything, she was still dear to him” (246).

• Elizabeth had never once wondered what Darcy thought of her. She never valued his supposed arrogant opinions or ideas—and never once did she ever expect this to change. However, this quote depicts this drastic change. Upon Elizabeth’s realization of Darcy’s true character, she shifts from having feelings of hatred and disdain toward Darcy, to respect and admiration. Elizabeth longs for some type of sign that may release her uncertainty of Darcy’s feelings for her through a glance or a mannerism. She wonders if Darcy still has feelings for her, but assumes and expresses certainty that he doesn’t: “It is impossible that he should still love me” (249). However, we gain insight from an outside source that, “it was evident that he was very much in love with her” (257). Elizabeth still remains unsure of her own feelings toward Darcy (258), let alone attempting to figure out Darcy’s.
  

Multiple Choice:

What are Elizabeth’s feelings on being acquainted with Miss Darcy?

A) Elizabeth felt that it was a compliment of the highest kind
B) Elizabeth dreaded the meeting because Miss Darcy proved to be arrogant
C) Mrs. Reynolds had spoken ill of Miss Darcy’s upbringing and persuaded Elizabeth not to speak with her
D) Indifference

E) Elizabeth was already well acquainted with Miss Darcy and despised her

P&P #9: Ch. 14-18

“The general prejudice against Mr. Darcy is so violent, that it would be the death of half the good people in Meryton, to attempt to place him in an amiable light” (221).

• Once again, the themes first impressions along with prejudice, appears. Elizabeth makes a great assumption in expressing that regardless of any new, good-natured information having to do with Darcy, the people will have an extremely difficult time believing Elizabeth. This is solely due to how society values first impressions. In observing one’s initial portrayal of character, permanent prejudices are formed—either positive or negative. This does not often prove successful: “Pleased with the preference of one, and offended by the neglect of the other, on the very beginning of our acquaintance, I have courted [prejudice] and ignorance, and driven reason away where either were concerned” (205). In this social structure, a person's disposition is already set according to their place, ones responsibility is to act in such a way that reflects on that social level. It is absurd at how many times this practice has failed them and the people still remain stagnant in changing their customs.

Multiple Choice:

What does Elizabeth choose to leave out when telling Jane of all that had occurred?

A) The devious schemes of Wickham
B) How Darcy professed his undying love for Elizabeth
C) That Darcy interfered with the possible relationship between Jane and Bingley
D) Mrs. Bennet and her sisters were responsible for manipulating Bingley into never coming back
E) All of the above

P&P #7: Ch. 6-10

"If his own vanity, however, did not mislead him, he was the cause, his pride and caprice were the cause of all that Jane had suffered and still continued to suffer. He had ruined for a while every hope of happiness for the most affectionate, generous heart in the world; and no one could say how lasting an evil he might have inflicted" (185).

• Elizabeth absolutely detests Darcy for interfering with the relationship between Mr. Bingley and her sister Jane. Elizabeth assumed that the Bingley sisters were solely responsible for the incident; however, when receiving this information she places Darcy at fault for all of Jane’s time spent suffering and crying. Mr. Darcy has fallen for Elizabeth and the two finally begin to get along, but with this new information, Mr. Darcy has lost his chance to gain Elizabeth’s approval, only to result in a deepening of her abhorrence toward him.

Multiple Choice:

"There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me" (173).

The quotation above describes which character?

A) Elizabeth
B) Mrs. Bennet
C) Charlotte
D) Mr. Collins
E) Maria

P&P #6: Ch. 2-5

“Stupid men are the only ones worth knowing, after all” (154). (Gen)

• In this quote, Elizabeth expresses a loss of hope in intelligent, well-mannered men and has good reason to. Mr. Bingley, whom she once believed to be a wonderful match for her beloved sister, proved to be a spineless man easily manipulated by his sisters and Darcy. Also, Mr. Wickham, whom Elizabeth had grown very fond of, decides to pursue Miss King in hopes of acquiring Miss King’s inherited wealth. Elizabeth has given up on such men and in saying “stupid men are the only ones worth knowing” (154), one can assume that Mr. Collins could be considered as “stupid” considering the fact that Charlotte is happy and is guaranteed a prudent marriage. Elizabeth continues to be disappointed by the men she thought so highly of; however, she should be disappointed by her own reliability on first impressions.
  
  

Multiple Choice:

What can we assume is the reasoning behind Mr. Wickham’s sudden desire to marry Miss King?

A) Prudence
B) Mercenary
C) Love
D) Obligation

E) None of the above

P&P #5: Ch. 21-1

“There are few people whom I really love, and still fewer of whom I think well. The more I see of the world, the more am I dissatisfied with it; and every day confirms my belief of the inconsistency of all human characters, and of the little dependence that can be placed on the appearance of either merit or sense” (135).

• Through this quote, Elizabeth is shone in a light that increases her amiability from when we were previously faced with her prejudices. Elizabeth is seen as an insightful and levelheaded sister who sees people for who they really are. She acts as a driving force that attempts to have Jane see others in the same light and dissuade her from thinking that "all the world is respectable" (134). Optimism is a good quality; however, one must also be wise in determining certain characteristics in others that may be harmful toward him or her. Also, Elizabeth mentions the “inconsistency” in human beings. However, she is certainly guilty of refusing to see Wickham’s falseness insisting that he is completely innocent. Nonetheless, Elizabeth is very independent and finds no need to depend on anyone or anything because, as seen with Charlotte's nonsensical decision to marry Mr. Collins, "sense" is unreliable.
  
  

Multiple Choice:

What can be said for Charlotte Lucas’ reasoning for accepting Mr. Collins’ marriage proposal?

A. Charlotte is madly in love with Mr. Collins and cannot wait for the day that will make her the happiest woman
B. Charlotte accepts out of pity because he had been rejected by her best friend just a few days before
C. Charlotte is convinced that she will live comfortably and considering Mr. Collins situation in life and connections, her chances of happiness are fair
D. Charlotte was forced to accept or else her mother would refuse to speak to her

P&P #4: Ch. 17-20

“Your mother will never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will never see you again if you do” (111).

• This passage is certainly a slap in Mrs. Bennet’s face. After many years of attempting to impose her priorities and adherence to societal structure on Mr. Bennet, he goes against her and firmly takes his own stance on the occurrence: “I have two small favours to request. First, that you will allow me the free use of my understanding on the present occasion” (112). He often reveals his opinion of the absurdity of societal structure through his witty and amusing comments to Mrs. Bennet; however, this quote certainly exemplifies Mr. Bennet’s overt refusal to accept such customs. Also, because Elizabeth is the favorite of her father, Mr. Bennet supports her decision and would not insist that she marry someone out of her will. Mr. Bennet clearly does not care much for his estate remaining in the family as much as he does for his daughter’s happiness.
  

Multiple Choice:

Which quotation best relates to the idea portrayed in the following passage?

“That it is usual with young ladies to reject the addresses of the man whom they secretly mean to accept, when he first applies for their favour; and that sometimes the refusal is repeated a second or even a third time” (107).

A. “Society has claims on us all; and I profess myself one of those who consider intervals of recreation and amusement as desirable for every body” (88).
B. “If a woman conceals her affection with the same skill from the object of it, she may lose the opportunity of fixing him” (22).
C. “‘There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil, a natural defect, which not even the best education can overcome’” (58).
D. “A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves; vanity to what we would have others think of us” (21).
E. "A woman must have a thorough knowledge of music, singin, drawing, dancing, and the modern languages, to deserve the word" (40).

P&P #3: Ch. 11-16

"For almost all his actions may be traced to pride; and pride has often been his best friend. It has connected him nearer with virtue than any other feeling. But we are none of us consistent; and in his behavior to me there were stronger impulses even than pride" (Austen 82).

• In this quote Mr. Wickham describes Darcy as being a proud man. However, it is reasonable to hold the supposition that Darcy acts in such a way only because of the situation between his father, Wickham, and himself. It is fair that Darcy is angry considering the fact that his father gave his estate to Wickham rather than his own son. On the other hand, it is despicable on Darcy's part because he must be more understanding and appeasing in recognizing that it was not Wickham's fault and should not be taken out on him. However, as Darcy previously stated, "My good opinion once lost is lost for ever" (58). His implacable resentment and haughty nature toward others gives the impression that he is indeed proud and also too stubborn to forgive others. Pride may have possibly "connected him nearer with virtue" however as CS Lewis states, "pride leads to every other vice".

Multiple Choice:

What societal theme is presented in Elizabeth's eagerness in giving credibility to Mr. Wickham's one-sided story?

A. The idea that first impressions are of the utmost importance
B. The belief that a woman's goal was to find a husband agreeable to society
C. The belief that women were to be submissive in society
D. The idea that respect is shown when one family calls on another family, that family must do the same
E. None of the above

Huck Finn 6: 185-209

“I felt so ornery and low down and mean, that I says to myself, My mind’s made up; I’ll hive that money for them or bust” (188).

• Huck has been greatly influenced by both Pap and Ms. Watson. This is evident in many cases throughout the novel. However, this passage introduces us to a different Huck who begins to formulate his own decisions. He is no longer speaking of what he has been taught, but draws on his ideas and opinions from his own mind. Despite Huck’s previous way of thinking, “the best way to get along with his kind of people is to let them have their own way” (137), his empathy for the girls overwhelms him, forcing Huck to intrude on allowing the king and Duke to “have their own way” (137). Huck, as usual, is illustrated as courageous in this quote, being aware of what danger he may be putting himself in.

“Well, I says to myself at last, I’m agoing to chance it; I’ll up and tell the truth this time, though it does seem most like setting down on a kag of powder and touching it off just to see where you’ll go to” (200).

• This quote also demonstrates Huck’s thought process in making his own decisions. Yet, it also relates to the theme of Huck’s moral process versus the moral action/outcome. Throughout the novel, Huck struggles with an erroneous moral triangle. His intentions were good, however, the moral process Huck went through was muddled, but always resulted in a good outcome. Huck’s muddled moral process was unclear solely because of the many influences he had in his life. However, through this passage, we see Huck overcome his muddled thought process and decide to go out on a limb and tell the truth for once: “here’s a case where I’m blest if it don’t look to me like the truth is better, and actuly safer, than a lie” (200). This shows the refinement of his moral process, which will hopefully result in a good outcome.

Vocabulary:

“The lid was shoved along about a foot, showing the dead man’s face down there, with a wet cloth over it, and his shroud on” (192).

Shroud: (noun) a cloth or sheet in which a corpse is wrapped for burial

“It jolted her up like everything, of course; but I was over the shoal water now, so I went right along” (200).

Shoal: (noun) a place where a sea, river, or other body of water is shallow

Huck &+ Jim Dialogue

Huck

Today, I reckon will be the day I tell Jim of what Pap and t’others think he done to me. I never said nothing; kept it to myself ‘cause I thought keeping it a secret wouldn’t be no problem. But by-and-by, I think I owes it to ‘em. I reckon that lyin’ to Jim wouldn’t do no good ‘cause last time I did suttin bad to ole Jim, he got bit by the snake and I promised myself it’d never happen again. It warn’t no use keeping it to myself ‘cause we was almost to Cairo so it wouldn’t matter no more.
I stared at Jim and thought to myself if this a good idea; us runnin’ off, and me with a nigger on my hands? Maybe it was bad and would send me to the bad place like Ms. Watson been tellin’ me bout. Ms. Watson always says we ought to follow the law no matters what. But I already broke the law so there warn’t no use in tryin to fix it. By and by, I woke Jim up ‘cause I wanted to tell him before the king and duke got to their senses. “Jim,” says I, “wake up”. Jim looked up at me ruther strange ‘cause he warn’t sure of why I would be doing such a thing. Jim didn’t answer so I just started talkin’. “See here Jim, when I’s dressed up as a girl and went to that house in the woods t’otha night, that lady tells me about myself. She said Pap and the others think you’s the one that killed me that night I ran away. They lookin for you Jim, not to sell you, but to put yous in prison or prob’ly kill you. But I knows it warn’t no problem no more cuz we’s almost to Cairo where nobody’ll bother to ask nuthin bout our reasons.” Jim was quiet, and all a sudden started cryin’ and howlin’ at me. It warn’t no use in trying to calm him down, it was my doing.

Jim

"I don't know what te say," says I. "Is it so chile? ‘Spose I's d'cided to goes on back te home wid Ms. Watson un alls the rest? They'd sho take me un whack me ove' the head wid no chance te speak my peace. I doan' want te think bout this no mo'. Its puttin' a hurtin in ma heart. I thought you's said you's gonna stop lyin te me chile. Are you's jus nuther white man out te git me? I knows u aint, else u wouldn't be helpin in gittin ma freedom n comin bak wid me to finds my fam'ly. I don't got five million frens runnin' roun' tryin to help ole Jim. I on'y got you's Huck. On account o' dat, its ok that you's fergot to tell me that t'others assumin that I's the one that dun keel you. We’s neva gonna see them e’r agin. A new life is a comin’ Huck, jis yous wait n see. We's sho is gonna be happy; free te do wateve’ we wants wen we gits to Cairo, jis layin aroun' bein free wid my fam'ly. And you's sho welcom te be wid us too. I doan' mean to 'sturb yur plans if u's was plannin’ on sumthin else but I's sure do needs you Huck, no matter wha happens chile, I' mighty glad to have you honey. Now let’s put alls dis behine us n move on. Ain’t no use un stayin mad at each othas, ares future wid happiness and joy is a comin’. Jis wait an’ see chile, jis wait an’ see.

Huck Finn 5: 129-157

“If they wanted us to call them kings and dukes, I hadn’t no objections, long as it would keep peace in the family… If I never learnt nothing else out of pap, I learnt that the best way to get along with this kind of people is to let them have their own way” (137).

• In this passage, Huck makes an intelligent decision to accept the King and Duke’s lies only to avoid disagreements. Despite Huck’s upbringing, this says a lot about his character and what he values. Huck could have confronted the two men; however, he subconsciously conveys his values of peace and harmony through his beliefs: “above all things, on a raft, is for everyone to be satisfied” (137). This is Huck’s refuge and he is not willing to have anything ruin it. We also see Huck reveal the first positive and beneficial words of Pap. The reader is aware that throughout Huck’s life, Pap has been a negative influence and a bad role model for Huck, so when hearing this, it is a great shock that Pap could have instructed Huck with a solid foundation of values. Nonetheless, the unusual wise words from Pap brings about an anticipation for more possible wise advice.

“I found Jim had been trying to get him to talk French, so he could hear what it was like; but he had been in this country so long, and had so much trouble, he’s forgot it” (146).

• Earlier in the reading, Jim is extremely stubborn and refuses to believe that some men may have the ability to speak another language. He argues with Huck and leaves his mind set on the fact that a man is to speak the same language as every other man (92). Likewise, a dog must speak the language of its own species. Ignorance is prevalent during that portion of the reading; however, Jim seems to be growing intellectually in being able to control his stubborn nature. He makes an effort to be open-minded which shows his yearning for more education and less wanting to rely on his inflicted ignorance as a crutch. By asking to hear the man speak French, Jim is acknowledging other men’s abilities to speak in other language. This shows great improvement in Jim.

Vocabulary:

Next you’d see a raft sliding by, away off yonder, and maybe a galoot on it chopping, because they’re most always doing it on a raft” (130).

Galoot: (noun) an awkward, eccentric, or foolish person

“They had white-domestic awnings in front, and the country people hitched their horses to the awning-posts” (151).

Awning: (noun) A rooflike structure, often made of canvas or plastic, that serves as a shelter, as over a storefront, window, door, or deck

Huck Finn 4: 89-129

“Well, then, says I, what’s the use you learning to do right, when it’s troublesome to do right and ain’t no trouble to do wrong, and the wages is just the same?” (104).

• Huck addresses an essential question that has been asked for millions of years. Why would one do right if it is much easier to do wrong? Despite such an intellectual question, Huck’s mind seems to be working in an inverted manner. In his opinion, the ‘right’ would be turning Jim over to authority and the ‘wrong’ is covering everything up so Jim is not sold into slavery. Huck even thinks about Miss Watson and what her opinion of this would have been. However, Huck does not think of the morality of the situation. He is not aware that the ownership of another human being is wrong; therefore, his feelings of guilt and shame should actually be feelings of pride and accomplishment. This relates back to Huck's ignorance on religious matters.

“It was pretty ornery preaching—all about brotherly love, and suchlike tiresomeness; but everybody said it was a good sermon, and they all talked it over going home, and had such a powerful lot to say about faith, and good works” (121).

• After attending church with guns strapped to their bodies, the Shepherdsons and the Grangerfords discuss the sermon that they had recently heard. When hearing "brotherly love", it is thought to be the compassion that we are to have for our neighbors: "Do not murder...love your neighbor as you love yourself" (Matthew 19:19). However, that was not the case between both families. One would assume that they would be moved by the sermon and stop their feud; however, both families disregarded the essential message of the homily and continued to fight, which eventually resulted in deaths. Why speak about “good works, and free grace” (122) when all they wanted to do was kill and cause chaos? What is the point of attending church and listening to the Word if it has no affect on ones life?

Vocabulary:

“'Everybody goes away when I want them to help me tow the raft ashore, and I can’t do it by myself.’ ‘Well, that’s infernal mean'" (102).

Infernal: (adj) hellish; fiendish; diabolical: an infernal plot

“There was four or five men cavorting around on their horses in the open place before the log store, cussing and yelling, and trying to get at a couple of young chaps” (126).

Cavort: (verb) to bound or prance about in a sprightly manner; caper

Huck Finn 3: 47-66

"I got a good place amongst the leaves, and set there on a log, munching the bread and watching the ferry-boat, and very well satisfied" (48).

• After leaving town and being away from his father, Huck feels very content where he is. He finds his own food and makes his own shelter. Huck does not have to worry about knowing how to speak and dress properly, nor undergo beatings. He is one with nature. This is very similar to Pearl from The Scarlet Letter. Pearl, like Huck, finds refuge in the woods a long way from town. They both do not feel accepted in a town filled with religious views and condemning speech. Their place of safety is away from these people and close to the simple beauties that are often taken for granted.

“And every time I waked up I thought somebody had me by the neck. So the sleep didn’t do me no good. By-and-by I says to myself, I can’t live this way; I’m agoing to find out who it is that’s here on this island with me” (51).

• Huck is depicted as very brave throughout his adventure. He runs away by himself and did not think of the possibility of feeling lonesome. He planned out his escape, cooked food for himself to eat, and found shelter at night. Huck proved to be successfull in all his efforts of not getting caught and rarely expressed fear which was unusual for a boy of his age. Nevertheless, he ran off without considering how he could live without companionship. Paranoia soon crept into his carefree lifestyle, which hindered him from sleeping. It is clear that Huck realizes he can no longer live everyday alone so he commits himself to finding a companion.

Vocabulary:

“When I got to camp I warn’t feeling very brash, there warn’t much sand in my craw” (50).

Brash: (adj) bold, impertinent; impudent; tactless

“There was two old dirty calico dresses, and a sun-bonnet” (61).

Calico: (noun) a plain-woven cotton cloth printed with a figured pattern, usually on one side

Huck Finn 2: 28-46

“You’re educated, too, they say; can read and write. You think you’re better’n your father, now, don’t you, because he can’t? I’ll take it out of you” (29).

• Many people would assume Huck’s father as being jealous of his son’s ability to read and write. Jealousy is excessive want. However, does Huck’s father truly want to be literate? We don’t get the impression that Huck’s father wishes to learn how to read and write because if so, he would have made an effort. Therefore pride is the main factor in Huck’s father’s anger, not jealousy. Huck’s father wants to be superior and have a feeling of great importance over his son. If Huck is more of something than his father is, this sense of superiority is lost. Huck’s father then goes through extreme measures like locking him in the cabin simply so his son will be inferior to him, with no chance of bettering himself.

“I didn’t want to go back no more. I had stopped cussing, because the widow didn’t like it; but now I took to it again because pap hadn’t no objections. It was pretty good times up in the woods there, take it all around” (34).

• It is clear that Huck feels more comfortable in the woods because that is where he was raised. He did not have the luxury of attending school nor having nice clothes. So when these things are offered to him, Huck feels constricted and uncomfortable. At Miss Watson’s house, Huck was forced to act proper with manners and attend school, while with his father, Huck could do and say whatever he pleased without having to walk on eggshells. This could be understood as another problem reflecting Huck’s youth. At his age, Huck is not fully aware of what is best for him. He does not think of the long run and how his life will be in the future. Huck lives for today which is basically how he was raised to live i.e. catching fish for one night’s dinner not being conscientious of what they might eat for the next day.

Vocabulary:

“He had a gold watch and chain, and a silver-headed cane—the awfulest old gray-headed nabob in the State” (37).

Nabob: (noun) any very wealthy, influential, or powerful person

“After supper pap took the jug, and said he had enough whiskey there for two drunks and one delirium tremens” (38).

Delirium tremens: (noun) withdrawal syndrome occurring in persons who have developed physiological dependence on alcohol, characterized by tremor, visual hallucinations, and autonomic instability

Huck Finn 1: 9-27

“All I wanted was to go somewhere; all I wanted was a change, I warn’t particular” (10).

• Huck is very young and extremely ignorant when it comes to speaking on religious related topics simply because his age and the fact that he was never educated on the subject. Huck justifies his reasoning for wishing he was in Hell when he articulates the passage above. It is clear that Huck is not aware of what exactly the “bad place” (10) is. He simply wants variety added to his lifestyle. This quote illustrates Huck’s nonchalant manner when it comes to what Miss Watson imposes on Huck to be important. Huck had been raised with simple ambitions and this is evident through his indifferent manner and speech. We see differences in what Miss Watson values and what Huck values. This is because of the age difference and how Huck has been raised versus Ms. Watson’s gained knowledge.

“I must help other people, and do everything I could for other people, and look out for them all the time, and never think about myself” (19).

• Though this quote, we see Huck’s mind being molded into what Ms. Watson wants it to become. However, it is unsuccessful because, after pondering over the thought for a long time, Huck quickly disposes of it. Again, we see his naive approach to a religious idea. Huck expresses his concern for himself: “I couldn’t see no advantage about it—except for the other people” (19), implying that there is no reward for him. He does not fully understand the idea and takes it in a literal sense so as to come to the conclusion that he must literally “never think about [himself]” (19). Although Huck is ignorant to these ideas, he is very intelligent when it came to things having to do with the outdoors.

Vocabulary:

“I couldn’t make out how he was agoing to be any better off then than what he was before, seeing I was so ignorant and so kind of low-down and ornery” (20).

Ornery: (adj) ugly and unpleasant in disposition or temper

“They didn’t have only a guard of four hundred soldiers, and so we would lay in ambuscade, as he called it, and kill the lot and scoop the things” (21).

Ambuscade: (noun) an ambush

Final Sin Essay

Macda Gerard
AP English 11: Mr. George
25 January 2009
Final Essay on Sin

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). This is the only way of acquiring salvation. Throughout the play, The Crucible, and the novels The Scarlet Letter and The Picture of Dorian Gray, the theme of redemption is prevalent in the main characters’ lives. Each carried the guilt of a sin; however, each diverged toward their own means of grappling with it. John Proctor from The Crucible and Dimmesdale and Hester Prynne from The Scarlet Letter begin their misguided search for forgiveness by different means, but are ultimately forgiven after both publicly and privately bearing their sins. Abigail from The Crucible, Chillingworth from The Scarlet Letter, and Dorian from The Picture of Dorian Gray choose to reject their opportunities to obtain absolution, which only results in their downfall. It is evident that once absolution is sought through both public and private acknowledgment, it is surely found.

All three works share a common message of upholding values in which one must carry out in the process of obtaining absolution through public and private means. In The Crucible, Proctor is depicted as a sinner, living faithfully in search of forgiveness. This is evident when he says, “Do that which is good, and no harm shall come to thee” (Miller 95). He remains faithful to the truth and ultimately receives forgiveness. Likewise, in The Scarlet Letter, one is encouraged to be honest: “Be true! Be true! Show freely to the world, if not your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst may be inferred” (Hawthorne 231). The Picture of Dorian Gray also reveals that honesty is of great value. This importance is revealed when observing Basil’s urgent plea to Dorian to repent and ask God for forgiveness. One can come to the understanding that remaining faithful to the truth is essential to grappling with sin publicly and privately; for if one is not truthful to both God and the public, redemption cannot be found.

Proctor begins his search for amnesty by admitting his sin to his wife. Despite Proctor’s best efforts in abiding by the truth, he is met with Elizabeth’s unwillingness to warmly accept his faults. An emotional detachment is formed between Proctor and Elizabeth, which only pushes Proctor toward other means of acquiring redemption. He looks to the people. Proctor was aware that failing to confess would hinder him from obtaining his desired forgiveness, while also allowing Abigail to continue to cause chaos within the town. In hopes of receiving forgiveness and putting an end to Abigail’s treacherous deeds, Proctor contritely confesses his sin to the people. Unfortunately, the people were unable to offer his desperately sought after redemption. Proctor upholds his values and tarnishes his name in hopes of obtaining absolution; however, he is unjustly condemned to death. Proctor loses patience and becomes infuriated at the fact that he still does not feel absolved of his sin so he continues to seek forgiveness elsewhere.

Proctor’s misguided search comes to an end when he discovers with whom his answers truly lie. As Proctor’s search for forgiveness proceeds, Elizabeth plays a large role in his atonement. Elizabeth helps Proctor come to the understanding that she is unable to give redemption: “I cannot judge you, John, I cannot” (Miller 138). She reinforces the mentality that God is the only judge. Furthermore, Proctor sees Rebecca’s disappointment when he is about to sign the false confession. Through Proctor’s constant demand for answers, for the first time, he sees God as an option: “Then who will judge me? Suddenly clasping his hands: God in Heaven who is John Proctor, what is John Proctor?” (138). Proctor does indeed seek forgiveness from others, but comes to the understanding that God must also be involved.

Dimmesdale has a similar means of grappling with his sin. At first, Dimmesdale deals with his sin privately. He is seen as an important figure in the church and is deeply revered by the townspeople and fellow ministers. If Dimmesdale were to publicly bear his sin, the church would go awry and possibly fall apart causing great chaos within the town. Aware of this, Dimmesdale is forced to grapple with his sin privately, which only results in his personal torment: “Fast…in order to purify the body and render it the fitter medium of celestial illumination, but rigorously, and until his knees trembled beneath him, as an act of penance” (Hawthorne 132). He had also been tormented by Chillingworth during this time, but was unaware of it. After Dimmesdale realized, he was grateful for his self-torture and Chillingworth’s torment because he believed them to be a part of his soon to come redemption.
Dimmesdale felt unsatisfied by the fact that he did not feel completely absolved. The Bible states that, “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). Dimmesdale chooses to publicly confess his sin after grappling with it privately, which finally releases him from the burden of his sin. He acknowledges that bearing his sin privately and also bringing it to the people were essential to freeing himself in order to die peacefully. Nonetheless, there were those who did not take this route.

Chillingworth took the role as Dimmesdale’s physician only to do evil and poison him with medication that solely kept Dimmesdale alive for more suffering. Chillingworth was aware of the horrid sin he was committing; however, that did not hinder him from leeching onto Dimmesdale. Instead of searching for repentance, Chillingworth continued to punish and seek vengeance. Dimmesdale becomes Chillingworth’s purpose to live, but soon loses this purpose after Dimmesdale’s death: “All his strength and energy—all his vital and intellectual force—seemed at once to desert him; insomuch that he positively withered up, shriveled away” (Hawthorne 232). Chillingworth’s physical appearance altered drastically and leads to his death because he could no longer depend on Dimmesdale. He fails to confess and passes away blanketed with sin. Through Chillingworth’s refusal to grapple with his sin, it is assumed that he is faced with the fate of eternal life in Hell.

Dorian had a childlike innocence to his nature that would soon be corrupted, forcing him to result in committing sins. His optimistic view of the world was inspiring and he was not interested in questioning things around him. Upon Lord Henry’s arrival into Dorian’s life, Dorian changed drastically. He influenced Dorian’s every thought; however, Dorian’s naïveté was questionable. It was unclear whether Dorian was indeed genuinely innocent or if he was purposely willing to be influenced. Dorian’s innocence is indistinct because Sibyl was also able to influence Dorian when he tells Lord Henry that, “When I am with her, I regret all that you have taught me... I am changed, and the mere touch of Sibyl Vane’s hand makes me forget you and all your wrong, fascinating, poisonous, delightful theories” (Wilde 82). It can be assumed that instead of being under Lord Henry’s influence, he feels as though Sibyl has a different affect on him. Regardless of his influence, Dorian had the ability to choose between good and evil but failed.

Basil, a painter and close acquaintance of Dorian, paints a portrait of Dorian representing youth and beauty as the secret of life. Lord Henry convinced Dorian that his youth and beauty should be cherished because it can slip away quickly; however, the painting captured his current beauty, which would be ever-present. Dorian claimed that the painting had “taught him to love his own soul” (95). However, one can certainly question if the portrait truly encouraged him to love his soul or rather served as an escape.

Dorian discovers that his portrait would bear his sins, while he remained young. His portrait revealed lines of age and was now “the visible emblem of [his] conscience” (96). The portrait was aging, showing Dorian his wrongdoing. One can suppose that the painting would encourage Dorian to do good; however, it becomes a physical representation of sin so he chooses to place it in his attic where no one can see it. Instead of utilizing the picture as a means of self-improvement, he uses it as an escape from having to bear the shame of his sin. Due to the fact that Dorian’s portrait held the “lines of his mouth, [and] the droop of his eyelids” (153), he did not have to grapple with his sins. In doing so, Dorian never sought redemption and his rotting soul became unable to be salvaged.

Dorian, like Chillingworth, can be considered to act as a parasite. As years passed by, Dorian evolved into a maniacal human being. Although Dorian hid the painting, he is dependent on it. Indeed Dorian hides his portrait from the outside world and becomes paranoid to the idea that his servant may have seen it; however, Dorian chose to look at it extremely often. As long as the portrait existed, so would his rotting soul, along with his urge to do harm and destruction. He can also be seen as a parasite by how his friends were affected by his change. Dorian’s friends were drained of their goodness and success when meeting with Dorian. He begins to bring struggle and sorrow to whomever he is around. This is evident when Basil asks Dorian, “Why is your friendship so fatal to young men? …They have gone down into the depths. You led them there; and yet you can smile as you are smiling now” (155). Following all of his wrongdoing Dorian is faced with the opportunity to repent and gain absolution; however he believed that, “it [was] too late” (162).

Basil Hallward certainly did not believe it was too late for redemption. In fact, he searches for redemption by coming to terms with his sin and confessing to Dorian: “I worshiped you too much. I am punished for it. You worshiped yourself too much. We are both punished” (162). Basil’s adoration and high regard for Dorian came to the extreme where it became sinful. Basil attempted to encourage Dorian to also ask for absolution by praying and pleading for God’s forgiveness. Dorian refuses to and actually responds to Basil’s act of compassion by murdering Basil. However, through Basil’s pleas of forgiveness, Basil was able to obtain absolution before his untimely death.
Abigail is also faced with the opportunity to repent for her sins but chooses not to. From the beginning of the play, Abigail lied which only led to more lies. She refused to seek forgiveness and simply continued to lie. Proctor gave her a chance to confess and gain absolution from their shared sin when he confessed in the court, but she chose to continue her deceiving behavior. Instead of Abigail releasing herself from her sinful standing by confessing her wrongdoing, she compounds her sin, which resulted in an undesirable end. Abigail ignored her sin and had to suffer an earthly fate of being a harridan, implying that her eternal fate was eternal life in Hell.

Unlike Abigail, Hester had no option but to reveal her sin. Hester was impregnated and could not conceal such an obvious state; therefore she was forced to publicly bear her sin because Pearl, her daughter, was a result of it. In addition to that, Hester was to wear the scarlet letter “A” on her chest, symbolizing the sin of adultery. She had to face the ridicule and hatred of the townspeople, which only grew worse as the people glared at this symbol of shame. Although she had to endure emotional pain, Hester partly believed that bearing the sin on her chest in the form of a scarlet “A”, was her means of obtaining absolution: “The torture of her daily shame would at length purge her soul, and work out another purity than that which she had lost; more saint-like” (Hawthorne 74). Dimmesdale tells Hester that she is fortunate to wear the scarlet letter on her chest for all to see (173) and later encourages her to seek redemption from God: “The sin here so awfully revealed!—let these alone be in thy thoughts… God knows; and He is merciful!” (229). Hester ultimately obtains her absolution through suffering in the public eye, but also through seeking God’s mercy.

Though everyone commits sin, God gives us the opportunity to be absolved. Proctor sought forgiveness from the townspeople and was unsuccessful until coming to the understanding that God plays an important role in redemption, thus allowing him to pass away absolved of sin. Both Dimmesdale and Basil demonstrate patience in their relationship between themselves and God, and themselves and the public, ultimately acknowledging that both components were crucial for their redemption. Likewise, Hester must publicly bear her sin with shame and humiliation, but in the end, she is assured that God is involved with her ultimate forgiveness. It is assumed that they are all given a heavenly reward through their search for forgiveness, unlike those who refused to repent.

The fact that God forgives all sinners should have motivated Chillingworth, Dorian and Abigail to repent; however, they chose to ignore their sins. Chillingworth died with malcontent because he could no longer leech on Dimmesdale in search of vengeance. It is obvious that if Dorian had kept his previous belief that, “When we blame ourselves we feel that no one else has the right to blame us. It is confession, not the priest, that gives us absolution” (100) and applied it to all aspects of his life, forgiveness would have been obtained. Abigail also had a chance to be absolved but instead, like all of the characters that refused to seek exoneration, is forced to suffer an eternal fate in the fires of Hell.

From observing those who sought amnesty, one can conclude that when finding contentment with earthly lives by both publicly and privately bearing ones sin, their eternal lives are in Heaven. Therefore, the initial sin is not important; what is important is how one deals with the sin. If we humble ourselves and confess our sins before God and others, salvation is inevitable. “Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you” (Act 13:38).




Work Cited

BibleGateway. 26 February 2009.
Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Scarlet Letter. New York: Bantam Dell, 2003.
Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. New York: Penguin Group, 1973.
Wilde, Oscar. The Picture of Dorian Gray. New York: Barnes & Noble Books, 2003.

Witticisms aka ||Possible new Away Messages||

1) In reality, we fight our own war of what the heart says and what the mind knows. Dreams are our refuge.

2) Forgiveness isn't freeing yourself from a grudge. It is letting the other person off the hook.

3) In life, you can’t steal second base with your foot on first.

4) In our lives, our hearts will keep beating, our blood will keep flowing, and our minds will keep thinking. Those who think different will always keep hating. But only one person matters, and to Him we keep praying.

5) Emotional pain is wisdom entering the body and mind.

6) One who is rich will never know satisfaction. But one who is poor is like one who is rich.

7) Luck is preparation mixed with oppurtunity.

8) Life is about appreciating memories, learning from the past, and realizing that people always change. And in the end, everyone turns out to be the person they swore they'd never become.

9) Pride is the one factor that makes the difference between damaging a relationship and deepening it.

10) From Jesus and Judas to Caesar and Brutus. From Martin to Malcolm, success was the outcome. But success is like suicide. If one succeeds, one is crucified.

Dorian Gray: Chapter 15 and 16

“Her feet are very pretty, but they are not feet of clay—white porcelain feet, if you like. They have been through the fire, and what fire does not destroy it hardens. She has had experiences” (186).

• Although this quote does not exactly add much to plot development, it is extremely enlightening to be told something you were already aware of. This passage explicates the idea of the common aphorism “what does not kill you, only makes you stronger”. Certain experiences are responsible for the strengthening of one’s maturity. The Duchess has gone through situations that have shaped her character, which was believed to be “out of the ordinary” according to how women were viewed at this time. Lord Henry states that she is, “too clever for a woman. She lacks the indefinable charm of weakness” (185). Lord Henry is not only stating his views and opinions about the common woman, but also articulating the stereotypical views that have developed over that time period.

“Ah! For that there was no atonement; but though forgiveness was impossible, forgetfulness was possible still, and he was determined to forget” (189).

• No matter how hard Dorian tried, he could not forget Basil’s murder. The portrait of Dorian certainly bore the affects of his sin; however, it did not rid him of the horrid memory of this event. There was certainly no expectation for receiving forgiveness because as we have learned through previous characters, one must grapple with the sin in order to obtain redemption. This displays how much Dorian has changed from his earlier belief: “There is a luxury in self-reproach…It is the confession, not the priest, that gives us absolution” (100). It is evident that even with his portrait being a representation of his rotting soul, Dorian has no urge to seek forgiveness. Instead of striving to adhere to his thought of not being able to "bear the idea of [his] soul being hideous" (101), he simply suppresses the memory until it vanishes.
  
  

Definitions:

1) “‘Isn’t he incorrigible?’ cried Dorian, leaning forward in his chair” (183).

Incorrigible: (adj) bad beyond correction or reform

2) “There were opium-dens, where one could buy oblivion—dens of horror, where the memory of old sins could be destroyed by the madness of sins that were new” (189).

Opium: (noun) anything that causes dullness or inaction or that soothes the mind or emotions

Dorian Gray: Chapter 14

“A faint smile passed across his lips, as though he had been lost in some delightful dream. Yet he had not dreamed at all. His night had been untroubled by any images of pleasure or of pain. But youth smiles without any reason. It is one of its chiefest charms” (166).

• It is evident that despite the happenings of the preceding night, Dorian feels no remorse and awakes with a smile. He did not feel burdened by his wrongdoing, nor felt as though he was responsible for it. We see Dorian carry out his everyday life as normal. The portrait; however, must bear Dorian’s sin. Although Dorian remains physically young and beautiful, his portrait, once again, displays his horrid acts: “[there was] loathsome red dew that gleamed, wet and glistening, on the hands” (177). Dorian is apparently either impervious to sorrow or lacking a soul.
  

"It is impossible for you to refuse now. I tried to spare you. You will do me the justice to admit that. You were stern, harsh, and offensive. You treated me as no man has ever dared to treat me--no living man, at any rate. I bore it all. Now it is time for me to dictate terms" (175).

• Throughout his life, Dorian had always been wealthy, young, and admired. No one would ever speak badly about Dorian without feeling a hint of guilt for it. With the entrance of the new character Alan Campbell, this has changed. Campbell is not afraid of defending his views and expressing his thoughts on how horrible Dorian has become. We see this confirmed by Dorian’s lascivious nature. Instead of accepting “no” for answer, Dorian results in blackmailing Campbell. Dorian also references Basil when he states “no living man, at any rate” (175). There is a threatening undertone in this passage that not only gives reference to Basil’s death but also threatens Campbell’s life. Perhaps that is what the blackmail note contained. At any rate, Dorian has acquired a sense of cynical power and control that will only result terribly for him.

Definitions:

1) “In a few moments, Alan Campbell walked in, looking very stern and rather pale, his pallor being intensified by his coal-black hair and dark eyebrows” (171).

Pallor: (noun) unusual or extreme paleness, as from fear, ill health, or death; wanness

2) “He heaved a deep breath, opened the door a little wider, and with half-closed eyes and averted head, walked quickly in” (178).

Avert: (v) to turn away or aside

Dorian Gray: Chapter 12 and 13

“Sin is a thing that writes itself across a man’s face. It cannot be concealed. People talk sometimes of secret vices. There are no such things. If a wretched man has a vice, it shows itself in the lines of his mouth, the droop of his eyelids, the molding of his hands even” (153,154).

• Basil is correct in this statement. He expresses that we cannot hide our wrongdoing. In grappling with our sins, we are affected by the stress and age lines that accompany the struggle. There is no secrecy in sinning, which often creates a better means of obtaining absolution because the sin is seen by all; therefore, this encourages one to seek forgiveness quicker. However, this is clearly not the case with Dorian. Due to the fact that Dorian’s portrait held the “lines of his mouth, [and] the droop of his eyelids” (153), he did not have to grapple with his sins and simply hid them behind a curtain. In doing so, Dorian never had to search for redemption and his rotting soul became unable to be salvaged: “‘It is too late, Basil,’” (162).
  

“You are the one man in the world who is entitled to know everything about me. You have had more to do with my life than you think” (159).

• Basil is unaware of the negative impact the portrait has had on Dorian’s life. Through Dorian’s perception of the situation, he is basically blaming Basil. Since Basil was the painter of the portrait, Dorian sees Basil as responsible for making his life miserable: “the man that had painted the portrait that was the origin of all his shame was to be burdened for the rest of his life with the hideous memory of what he had done” (157). Was Basil really to blame for Dorian's misery? Could Dorian have prevented the outcome of such a horrid portrait? Dorian had the ability to repent for his sins and do good. However, he chose an evil route that only led to his mental and emotional breakdown.

Definitions:

1) “Did I teach the one his vices and the other his debauchery?” (155).

Debauchery: (noun) excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures; intemperance

2) “ ‘You were to me such an ideal as I shall never meet again. This is the face of a satyr’” (161).

Satyr: (noun) a lascivious man; lecher

Dorian Gray: Chapter 11

“The more he knew, the more he desired to know. He had mad hungers that grew more ravenous as he fed them” (Wilde 132).

• Before meeting Lord Henry, Dorian had a childlike innocence to his nature. His optimistic view of the world was inspiring and he was not interested in questioning things around him. Upon Lord Henry’s arrival into Dorian life, Dorian changed drastically to the point where others began to notice: “You talk as if you had no heart, no pity in you. It is all Harry’s influence” (112). Lord Henry is responsible for instilling this malevolent yearning for knowledge within Dorian. When obtaining more knowledge, Dorian would begin to gain a better understanding of how to deceitfully go about living with his secret. The more he learned, the more he felt his ravenous desire increase; just as “everyone knows that the sexual appetite, like our other appetites, grows by indulgence” (Lewis 97).

"For these treasures, and everything that he collected in his lovely house, were to be to him means of forgetfulness, modes by which he could escape, for a season from the fear that seemed to him at times to be almost too great to be borne"(Wilde 143).

• Lord Henry gave Dorian a book that has caused him to become extremely obsessed with it. The book encouraged Dorian to take up hobbies in various things, completely devoting himself to each one. His hobbies included studying art, studying perfumes, dedicating himself to music, and studying jewels. By taking up new hobbies, Dorian could escape from the thought of the horrid portrait that displayed his rotting soul. However, these projects proved unsuccessful in distracting him. His sins and aging did not reflect on his face but he was forced to grapple with his wrongdoing regardless of his newfound hobbies because the portrait had become a part of him: “He hated to be separated from the picture that was such a part of his life” (144).

Definitions:

“Of the asceticism that deadens the senses, as of the vulgar profligacy that dulls them, it was to know nothing” (134).

Profligacy: (noun) shameless indifference to moral restraints


“Of such insolences and attempted slights he, of course, took no notice, and in the opinion of most people his frank, debonair manner… were in themselves a sufficient answer to the calumnies (for so they termed them) that were circulated about him” (145).

Calumny: (noun) a false and malicious statement designed to injure the reputation of someone or something

Dorian Gray: Chapter 9 and 10

“It is only shallow people who require years to get rid of an emotion. A man who is master of himself can end a sorrow easily as he can invent a pleasure” (112).

• Through this quote, we see once again, the influence that Lord Henry has had on Dorian. It is evident that Dorian does not really believe this because he then states, "I don't want to be at the mercy of my emotions" (112). He seems to be forcing Lord Henry's views on himself and pushing his genuine compassion aside, making him callous. I don't agree with this statement because mourning over occurrences should not be understood as being shallow especially because "shallow" brings a negative connotation to the feeling. No man can force himself to stop feeling a certain way, however, he is correct in the fact that one "can invent a pleasure" (112). Happiness can be found anywhere and in anything.

“Perhaps he had read it, and had begun to suspect something. And yet, what did it matter? What had Dorian Gray to do with Sibyl Vane’s death? There was nothing to fear. Dorian Gray had not killed her” (128).

• In this quote, we see guilt emerging in Dorian's conscience. If he truly was no longer affected by Sibyl's death, as he says he is, then he would not be angry when seeing the news of it on his desk or be worried if Victor may have seen it. This refutes his previous statement when he says, " What is done is done. What is past is past" (112). Apparently, it is not the past if he is continues to question and dwell on Sibyl's death. This quote narrates Dorian's inner thoughts and questions that forces the reader to conclude that Dorian's character has not been fully affected by Lord Henry's influence.

Definitions:

“She lingered for a few moments, and was garrulous over some detail of the household” (122).

Garrulous: (adj) excessively talkative in a rambling, roundabout manner, esp. about trivial matters

“The mere cadence of the sentences, the subtle monotony of their music, so full at it was of complex refrains and movements elaborately repeated” (129).

Cadence: (noun) rhythmic flow of a sequence of sounds or words