To what extent have you found it possible, in your consideration of literary works, to separate the individual from his or her public role? In you answer you should refer to any two or three works you have studied.
In Ibsen's "Wild Duck" and Lorca's "Blood Wedding",
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Comments
- Although I don't agree exactly with your opinion on this topic, you do make a good point when stating the useful effects of literary techniques. (Webster; Journal 4)
- Your analysis of the text and diction used to express how emotion is created within the reader by the author was very insightful. It was really clear and easy to understand. (Walch; Journal 3)
- I hadn't noticed the effect of Oedipus seemingly talking to the audience previous to reading this. Your interpretation of this, that it creates distance between him and other characters, seems to be completely correct. Also, I agree that Oedipus is quite a relatable character due to his idealistic personality.(Taylor; Journal 2)
Monday, May 23, 2011
Journal #6: The Wild Duck
What are the questions that underlie at least two of the works that you have read and how have the authors sought to answer those questions?
A question present within both "The Wild Duck" and "Oedipus" seems to be one pertaining to the inability of man to control his fate. This becomes apparent when Oedipus discovers that he is the cause of his suffering, and when Hjalmar becomes aware of the fact that his daughter is not truly his.
In "Oedipus", Oedipus results to be his own undoing. His persistent and determined nature lead him to discover an already established fate. When one examines the play in its entirety, we realize that had Oedipus not looked for the murderer, he still would have found the answer eventually. Sophocles establishes the idea that one may not stray from his destiny, as one's own nature will ultimately betray them and lead them to discovery.
We see that Sophocles fully supports this idea, because even a character as perfect and idealized as Oedipus encounters his undoing. His seemingly flawless and ideal characteristics are what lead him to this undoing, and there is no way he could have gotten around his fate, because of his personality that was already established.
Sophocles also seems to be saying that even the most perfect man may be destroyed by his own hand, although he may not suspect it and may be adored by all. Sophocles answers the original question by having Oedipus find out his own fate because of his own persistence and determined self.
In "The Wild Duck", Ibsen creates this loss of control within the protagonist, Hjalmar, by having him discover that his daughter, Hedvig, is not truly his daughter. The loss of control by the father of a family symbolizes the loss of control over his destiny. He is no longer even able to control something which he thought completely belonged to him, something that should righteously be only his. Ibsen uses the symbol of a family in order to portray the inability to control fate because it shows the complete loss of control.
A question present within both "The Wild Duck" and "Oedipus" seems to be one pertaining to the inability of man to control his fate. This becomes apparent when Oedipus discovers that he is the cause of his suffering, and when Hjalmar becomes aware of the fact that his daughter is not truly his.
In "Oedipus", Oedipus results to be his own undoing. His persistent and determined nature lead him to discover an already established fate. When one examines the play in its entirety, we realize that had Oedipus not looked for the murderer, he still would have found the answer eventually. Sophocles establishes the idea that one may not stray from his destiny, as one's own nature will ultimately betray them and lead them to discovery.
We see that Sophocles fully supports this idea, because even a character as perfect and idealized as Oedipus encounters his undoing. His seemingly flawless and ideal characteristics are what lead him to this undoing, and there is no way he could have gotten around his fate, because of his personality that was already established.
Sophocles also seems to be saying that even the most perfect man may be destroyed by his own hand, although he may not suspect it and may be adored by all. Sophocles answers the original question by having Oedipus find out his own fate because of his own persistence and determined self.
In "The Wild Duck", Ibsen creates this loss of control within the protagonist, Hjalmar, by having him discover that his daughter, Hedvig, is not truly his daughter. The loss of control by the father of a family symbolizes the loss of control over his destiny. He is no longer even able to control something which he thought completely belonged to him, something that should righteously be only his. Ibsen uses the symbol of a family in order to portray the inability to control fate because it shows the complete loss of control.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Journal #5: The Wild Duck
Point of view/Characters
The story "The Wild Duck" is told from the point of view of a 3rd person narrative. This voice does not change throughout the play- or at least it hasn't changed through acts 1 and 2. The narrative voice can be considered to be quite reliable as it offers information from all parties within the play, and does not simply express the views of one mere character. The reader gets to know the characters quite well. The reader is privy to information including affairs and scandals, and sentiments held by all the characters. These tid bits of information allows the audience to experience various characters perspectives. Some of the characters, such as the elder Werle, are not credible. They offer a dubious front and seem like they may not be trusted. Also, there are several nameless characters whom are also not credible due to their lack of individuality. They seem to be flat characters placed within the play in order to advance the plot. The characters are presented individually with their desires, suspicions, and thoughts on display. The author persuades the reader to like and dislike characters by having other characters display their opinions on them, and through characterization.
The story "The Wild Duck" is told from the point of view of a 3rd person narrative. This voice does not change throughout the play- or at least it hasn't changed through acts 1 and 2. The narrative voice can be considered to be quite reliable as it offers information from all parties within the play, and does not simply express the views of one mere character. The reader gets to know the characters quite well. The reader is privy to information including affairs and scandals, and sentiments held by all the characters. These tid bits of information allows the audience to experience various characters perspectives. Some of the characters, such as the elder Werle, are not credible. They offer a dubious front and seem like they may not be trusted. Also, there are several nameless characters whom are also not credible due to their lack of individuality. They seem to be flat characters placed within the play in order to advance the plot. The characters are presented individually with their desires, suspicions, and thoughts on display. The author persuades the reader to like and dislike characters by having other characters display their opinions on them, and through characterization.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Journal #4: The Wild Duck
To what extent would you agree that plot should be valued more highly than style in the work. In you answer you should refer to two or three works you have studied.
Plot is more important within both the Wild Duck and Oedipus. The storyline is of more importance than the techniques utilized by Ibsen and Sophocles.
Within Oedipus, the story of Oedipus' persuasiveness portrays more clearly Sophocles' idea that fate is predestined and not affected by man, than any of the techniques used. In the play, Oedipus' journey is explored and his persuasiveness proves to be his downfall. This isn't expressed through any techniques except for perhaps characterization. Through characterization Oedipus's personality is developed. However, this technique is the only one that proves useful in conveying the authors idea. The style doesn't convey this thesis either, as a typical reader wouldn't notice it very much.
In The Wild Duck, The main idea seems to be conveyed more through the plot and dialogue rather than through the techniques used by Ibsen. In fact, techniques do not look very apparent, and most of the knowledge about the situation is gained through the storyline by the readers. The style of writing by Ibsen does not help portray any main idea, most themes are gathered through out the procession of events.
These arguments both aid and reinforce the argument that plot holds much more more value than style within these plays. However, this could be contrary in different plays where much does not occur and the plot is not as significant.
Plot is more important within both the Wild Duck and Oedipus. The storyline is of more importance than the techniques utilized by Ibsen and Sophocles.
Within Oedipus, the story of Oedipus' persuasiveness portrays more clearly Sophocles' idea that fate is predestined and not affected by man, than any of the techniques used. In the play, Oedipus' journey is explored and his persuasiveness proves to be his downfall. This isn't expressed through any techniques except for perhaps characterization. Through characterization Oedipus's personality is developed. However, this technique is the only one that proves useful in conveying the authors idea. The style doesn't convey this thesis either, as a typical reader wouldn't notice it very much.
In The Wild Duck, The main idea seems to be conveyed more through the plot and dialogue rather than through the techniques used by Ibsen. In fact, techniques do not look very apparent, and most of the knowledge about the situation is gained through the storyline by the readers. The style of writing by Ibsen does not help portray any main idea, most themes are gathered through out the procession of events.
These arguments both aid and reinforce the argument that plot holds much more more value than style within these plays. However, this could be contrary in different plays where much does not occur and the plot is not as significant.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Journal #3: Oedipus
Diary entries from any of the characters.
The news I bear is distressing at the least. It wrenches at my very soul and leaves a seething cold mist within. The woe it causes me is nearly indescribable.
Laius, Laius, He whom I layed with, he whom helped me bear my son who was then cast away. He is the victim of my husband, the father of my husband. This information seems to destroy any shred of hope, of light, left within me. I do not know what I shall do, or whom I shall turn to.
Oedipus discovered this, by his own free will. His own hand drove him to search for the fulfillment of the prophecy, and I fear he will suspect me of being ashamed of him. I fear his eternal anger with me, and bear his wrath I shall not.
Apollo! Why do you bestow this tragedy upon us? Upon myself, my son and husband, the son I bore children with? For although our actions have been unexcusable, excuse them you must. We had no shred of knowledge of what was occurring, else we would have stopped at once. But now you, this shame, these horrible actions, have led me to my demise.
I can no longer fathom living a wretched life as now, laying my eyes on the sins I have committed, the abominations I have created, day after day. No, I fear that the only way to escape this horrendous situation will be through my own hands. I must myself end my life, although it is a tragedy that I leave these sins to be carried by others. I can no longer live, for these terrible things haunt me.
Apollo, I will see you soon. Soon, I will be away from this wretched situation and in an eternal shroud of darkness.
The news I bear is distressing at the least. It wrenches at my very soul and leaves a seething cold mist within. The woe it causes me is nearly indescribable.
Laius, Laius, He whom I layed with, he whom helped me bear my son who was then cast away. He is the victim of my husband, the father of my husband. This information seems to destroy any shred of hope, of light, left within me. I do not know what I shall do, or whom I shall turn to.
Oedipus discovered this, by his own free will. His own hand drove him to search for the fulfillment of the prophecy, and I fear he will suspect me of being ashamed of him. I fear his eternal anger with me, and bear his wrath I shall not.
Apollo! Why do you bestow this tragedy upon us? Upon myself, my son and husband, the son I bore children with? For although our actions have been unexcusable, excuse them you must. We had no shred of knowledge of what was occurring, else we would have stopped at once. But now you, this shame, these horrible actions, have led me to my demise.
I can no longer fathom living a wretched life as now, laying my eyes on the sins I have committed, the abominations I have created, day after day. No, I fear that the only way to escape this horrendous situation will be through my own hands. I must myself end my life, although it is a tragedy that I leave these sins to be carried by others. I can no longer live, for these terrible things haunt me.
Apollo, I will see you soon. Soon, I will be away from this wretched situation and in an eternal shroud of darkness.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Journal #2: Oedipus
Themes & Ideas
Several themes and ideas that arise within Oedipus are those or a predestined unchangeable fate, seeing or eyesight, and how even the most idealized man may be brought down by the gods. This last idea was extremely influenced by the belief in multiple Gods in Sophocles' time.
Firstly, the novel of Oedipus the King seems to carry an ulterior message that states that ones destiny is predetermined and may not be changed. The only thing a man can control in regard to his destiny is how he wishes to view it and whether he decides to pursue it or have it come upon him when the time is right. Instead of viewing himself as a god and thus not granting levity to his situation, Oedipus treats himself as a regular man and believes these are terrible crimes he has committed. One must believe that it would be possible for Oedipus to view himself as a king because of his character and his ability to solve the Sphinxs' riddle. Oedipus chooses to pursue his truth- his destiny, and this results in his undeniable sorrow. Although he couldn't have changed his destiny, he did have the opportunity to simply ignore it.
The idea of eyesight in the play seems contradictory in itself. Tiriesias is a blind prophet but can clearly see the truth, whereas Oedipus, a mighty king, is completely blind to his true actions at first although he has perfect vision. Oedipus then blinds himself in order to not view the abominations of his actions- his children. Overall, the message seems to be that mans greatest tool for harvesting knowledge may be his greatest downfall.
In Oedipus the King, Oedipus has a great many virtues that were highly envied by greek citizens at the time that the playwas written. He was honest, determined, diligent, and intelligent. These traits seem like they would create a perfect man, almost a god in some views, but in the case of this play, these virtues were Oedipus' downfall. His honesty prevented him from saving himself as king, his diligency and determinance led to the uncovering of his horrendous actions which led to his downfall, and his intelligence became of no use when he put it to work towards uncovering his destiny. This play seems to be saying that even the greatest man can and will be struck down by him traits, even if these are perfect.
Several themes and ideas that arise within Oedipus are those or a predestined unchangeable fate, seeing or eyesight, and how even the most idealized man may be brought down by the gods. This last idea was extremely influenced by the belief in multiple Gods in Sophocles' time.
Firstly, the novel of Oedipus the King seems to carry an ulterior message that states that ones destiny is predetermined and may not be changed. The only thing a man can control in regard to his destiny is how he wishes to view it and whether he decides to pursue it or have it come upon him when the time is right. Instead of viewing himself as a god and thus not granting levity to his situation, Oedipus treats himself as a regular man and believes these are terrible crimes he has committed. One must believe that it would be possible for Oedipus to view himself as a king because of his character and his ability to solve the Sphinxs' riddle. Oedipus chooses to pursue his truth- his destiny, and this results in his undeniable sorrow. Although he couldn't have changed his destiny, he did have the opportunity to simply ignore it.
The idea of eyesight in the play seems contradictory in itself. Tiriesias is a blind prophet but can clearly see the truth, whereas Oedipus, a mighty king, is completely blind to his true actions at first although he has perfect vision. Oedipus then blinds himself in order to not view the abominations of his actions- his children. Overall, the message seems to be that mans greatest tool for harvesting knowledge may be his greatest downfall.
In Oedipus the King, Oedipus has a great many virtues that were highly envied by greek citizens at the time that the playwas written. He was honest, determined, diligent, and intelligent. These traits seem like they would create a perfect man, almost a god in some views, but in the case of this play, these virtues were Oedipus' downfall. His honesty prevented him from saving himself as king, his diligency and determinance led to the uncovering of his horrendous actions which led to his downfall, and his intelligence became of no use when he put it to work towards uncovering his destiny. This play seems to be saying that even the greatest man can and will be struck down by him traits, even if these are perfect.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Journal #1: Oedipus
Prompt:
Oedipus The King is told from a 3rd person point of view, a narrator. This does not change throughout the story, at least not through the parts we've read so far. The narrative voice seems to be completely reliable seeing that it expresses all the characters' voices. It
allows the reader to understand the characters quite well, because their internal thoughts are expressed. The characters are credible due to explicit information given from them by the narrator. They are presented as humans with troubles, that they must struggle to resolve, not troubles that will be resolved by chance or "divine agents". The author persuades the readers to sympathize with Oedipus by presenting his story primarily and then presenting the other characters. The author idolizes and glorifies Oedipus' actions and his ability to solve the riddle of the sphinx, and thus creates a heroic persona within him.
Point of View/Characters: From whose point of view is the story told? Does this change? How reliable is the narrative voice? How well does the reader get to know the characters? How credible are they? How are they presented? How does the writer persuade us to like/sympathize with some characters and dislike others?
Oedipus The King is told from a 3rd person point of view, a narrator. This does not change throughout the story, at least not through the parts we've read so far. The narrative voice seems to be completely reliable seeing that it expresses all the characters' voices. It
allows the reader to understand the characters quite well, because their internal thoughts are expressed. The characters are credible due to explicit information given from them by the narrator. They are presented as humans with troubles, that they must struggle to resolve, not troubles that will be resolved by chance or "divine agents". The author persuades the readers to sympathize with Oedipus by presenting his story primarily and then presenting the other characters. The author idolizes and glorifies Oedipus' actions and his ability to solve the riddle of the sphinx, and thus creates a heroic persona within him.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Journal #3
Handmaids Tale- Topic C
Although Atwood's tale consists of some truth due to the fact that a dictatorial government is completely possible, I don't believe that it will ever be able to reach this level. Human nature does not permit itself this level of submission, there would be too many uprisings. However, the idea of the government attempting to take this kind of control after a national crisis is believable. This is made more believable by the submissive behaviour portrayed by all the women within the book and anyone of lower status.
The hope that Atwood gives the characters within this novel is that children will someday be able to liberate all the subservient characters. However, Atwoods true message seems to be that with or without resistance, we will come to an end like this eventually. She expresses this through the description of Offred and her Mothers small rebellions.
Although Atwood's tale consists of some truth due to the fact that a dictatorial government is completely possible, I don't believe that it will ever be able to reach this level. Human nature does not permit itself this level of submission, there would be too many uprisings. However, the idea of the government attempting to take this kind of control after a national crisis is believable. This is made more believable by the submissive behaviour portrayed by all the women within the book and anyone of lower status.
The hope that Atwood gives the characters within this novel is that children will someday be able to liberate all the subservient characters. However, Atwoods true message seems to be that with or without resistance, we will come to an end like this eventually. She expresses this through the description of Offred and her Mothers small rebellions.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Journal #2
Handmaids Tale- Topic B
Offreds Mother.
She is an extremely feminist figure in the time before the now present society was created. She advocated full equality in women, and managed to get women the right yo get abortions, have jobs, and stay independent. She acted out in various ways to promote her ideas:
"They must have poured gasoline, because the flames shot high, and then they began dumping the magazines, from boxes, not too many at a time" (Atwood 48). In this passage, Offred describes her mother burning pornographic magazines as a response to the degradation of women. Eventually we do not know what becomes of Offred's mother, but we know she was involved in a power struggle between women and the rest of society. Her resistance in unsuccesful, because even with all rebellions, Gilead was still constructed. Atwood seems to be saying that even if women had took charge, there was no use resisting the dictatorial government.
Offreds Mother.
She is an extremely feminist figure in the time before the now present society was created. She advocated full equality in women, and managed to get women the right yo get abortions, have jobs, and stay independent. She acted out in various ways to promote her ideas:
"They must have poured gasoline, because the flames shot high, and then they began dumping the magazines, from boxes, not too many at a time" (Atwood 48). In this passage, Offred describes her mother burning pornographic magazines as a response to the degradation of women. Eventually we do not know what becomes of Offred's mother, but we know she was involved in a power struggle between women and the rest of society. Her resistance in unsuccesful, because even with all rebellions, Gilead was still constructed. Atwood seems to be saying that even if women had took charge, there was no use resisting the dictatorial government.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Journal #1
Handmaids Tale - Topic A
"As we walk away I know they're watching, these two men who aren't yet permitted to touch women. They touch with their eyes instead and I move my hips a little, feeling the full red skirt sway around me. It's like thumbing your nose behind a fence or teasing a dog with a bone held out of reach, and I'm ashamed of myself for doing it, because none of this is the fault of these men, they're too young.
Then I find I'm not ashamed after all. I enjoy the power; power of a dog bone, passive but there."
This passage comes from a novel set in a time of extreme female degenaration, and is from the main point of view of Offred. Although in the book women posses almost no power over decisions in their life and their circumstances, Offred demonstrates her want for even the most menial authority here. She uses her body in a sexualized form in order to taunt innocent young guards that are unable to affect her or their lives. Although she feeles ashamed at first, she rethinks that idea and decides against this feeling, for the want of meager authority. I think this passage goes to show that in this society women are degraded and disrespected to a point where they must rely on sexualizing themselves to gain power. I believe this is true even though they are falsely respected by guards who will salute them; this seems to be simply a facade in order to keep the society from turning into the raw sexual form of slavery that it seems to be.
"As we walk away I know they're watching, these two men who aren't yet permitted to touch women. They touch with their eyes instead and I move my hips a little, feeling the full red skirt sway around me. It's like thumbing your nose behind a fence or teasing a dog with a bone held out of reach, and I'm ashamed of myself for doing it, because none of this is the fault of these men, they're too young.
Then I find I'm not ashamed after all. I enjoy the power; power of a dog bone, passive but there."
This passage comes from a novel set in a time of extreme female degenaration, and is from the main point of view of Offred. Although in the book women posses almost no power over decisions in their life and their circumstances, Offred demonstrates her want for even the most menial authority here. She uses her body in a sexualized form in order to taunt innocent young guards that are unable to affect her or their lives. Although she feeles ashamed at first, she rethinks that idea and decides against this feeling, for the want of meager authority. I think this passage goes to show that in this society women are degraded and disrespected to a point where they must rely on sexualizing themselves to gain power. I believe this is true even though they are falsely respected by guards who will salute them; this seems to be simply a facade in order to keep the society from turning into the raw sexual form of slavery that it seems to be.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Journal #8
I enjoy the Stranger in a deeper way now after gaining insight into its authors views and beliefs.
I think that in order for this book to be appreciated, one must look farther in and analyze the text so as to uncover the authors intentions.
Albert Camus uses the symbol of Salamano's dog in order to portray Mersaults relationship with society, and to foreshadow the eventual death of Mersault. This is demonstrated through the dog's relationship with it's owner.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Journal #7
Thesis-Topic-Quotes
Topic: Salamano's dog,
Mersaults relationship with society,
Foreshadowing.
Quotes:
1) "
2)"
3)"
4)"
5)"
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Journal #6
5 significant literary questions: THESTRANGER
1)Does Camus start the novel off with Maman's death so that we gain perspective on who Mersault is? What view of Mersault is he trying to project?
2)Why does Camus separate the book right after Mersault shots the Arabian? Is the separation supposed to symbolize a change or growth in Mersaults character?
3)Why does Camus use long sentences with pauses in the second half, instead of the abrupt ones he used in part 1? Does this reflect a change in Mersault?
4)Why did Mersault search for Marie's face among the stones of his prison wall? Why does he reference the sun in connection to her?
5)Why does Camus assign the same level of importance to everyone in Mersaults outburst to the priest? What is Camus trying to convey to his audience? Is it a reflection of Camus' personal beliefs?
1)Does Camus start the novel off with Maman's death so that we gain perspective on who Mersault is? What view of Mersault is he trying to project?
2)Why does Camus separate the book right after Mersault shots the Arabian? Is the separation supposed to symbolize a change or growth in Mersaults character?
3)Why does Camus use long sentences with pauses in the second half, instead of the abrupt ones he used in part 1? Does this reflect a change in Mersault?
4)Why did Mersault search for Marie's face among the stones of his prison wall? Why does he reference the sun in connection to her?
5)Why does Camus assign the same level of importance to everyone in Mersaults outburst to the priest? What is Camus trying to convey to his audience? Is it a reflection of Camus' personal beliefs?
COMMENTS
1)Why does Camus only refer to Saturday and Sunday and not the week days? (Bankston, 1)
Perhaps to show Mersaults indifference towards weekdays, and represent his lack of societal conformity.
2)How does Mersault's personality and world view change thoughout the book? Why do you think Camus wrote it this way? (Taylor, 3)
I believe Camus wrote the book with a change in Mersaults personality throughout parts one and two in order to express his belief that human behaviour is affected by traumatizing events.
3) If we have to look somewhere other existentialism or absurdism, how else can Meursaults indulgent and seemingly pointless lifestyle be interpreted? (Nguyen, 3)
I think his lifestyle can be interpreted as a representation of Camus' beliefs. In order for this to be true, we must conclude that Camus believes in merely physical motivations in life.
4) Why is color the main source of describing people and scenery? (Loehmann, 2)
Camus uses color to describe setting and characters in the book in order to convey the emotional intensity of said scene.
5) Is there any significance when Camus repeats Mersault's feelings of specifically, "wanting" Maria? Why does Camus not mix up the words? (Andrew, 3)
Camus does so in order to show Mersaults indifference towards emotional responses and his ulterior physical motivations.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Journal #5
Division of THE.STRANGER: Part1/Part2
In my opnion, Camus divides the Stranger in half in order to display Mersaults life before and after he murdered the Arab. He does so by varying literary techniques, changing Mersaults attitude, and diction.
A few parallels include:
In my opnion, Camus divides the Stranger in half in order to display Mersaults life before and after he murdered the Arab. He does so by varying literary techniques, changing Mersaults attitude, and diction.
A few parallels include:
- Part 1 begins with Maman, whereas Part 2 begins with Mersaults account of his arrest, and a few pages in, Camus introduces Maman again. This goes to show the importance of Mersaults mother.
- His father isn't mentioned in either part.
- Descriptive language remains the same, but contrary to Part 1, Mersault describes characters more instead of setting.
- In both parts Mersault holds true to his atheism, yet in the second part he becomes aware of the meaninglessness of his life, as he approaches death.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Journal #4
6 Questions
1)Are Camus' views on religion reflected in Mersaults personal beliefs?
2)Why does Camus give such importance to the sun in Camus' opinion?
3)Why doesn't Mersault's character show any display of jealousy when observing Raymond flirting with Marie?
4)Why does Mersault regard the sun positively when he is with Masson, since it normally agitates him?
5)Why does Camus have Mersault refer to himself all the time? (We; I.)
6)Why does Camus use the words 'Blazing' and 'Red' to describe the sand when they are close to the Arabs? Is this foreshadowing to the Arabs death?
1)Are Camus' views on religion reflected in Mersaults personal beliefs?
2)Why does Camus give such importance to the sun in Camus' opinion?
3)Why doesn't Mersault's character show any display of jealousy when observing Raymond flirting with Marie?
4)Why does Mersault regard the sun positively when he is with Masson, since it normally agitates him?
5)Why does Camus have Mersault refer to himself all the time? (We; I.)
6)Why does Camus use the words 'Blazing' and 'Red' to describe the sand when they are close to the Arabs? Is this foreshadowing to the Arabs death?
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Journal #3
Profundism
- People act for a higher reason.
- Action have causes, usually linked to selfish actions.
- A seemingly unselfish act is usually to make one feel better about themselves.
- Life is predestined, no event occurs by chance.
- Similar to Deism, Life occurs like clockwork.
- There is no presiding omnicsient power who plays a hand in events.
- Meanings behind actions are profound, a simple meaning is simply masking another one.
- These intentions may reside in the subconscious.
- People are naturally and instinctually good beings.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Journal #2
Translation&Title
In my opinion, Matthew Ward's translation holds the most literary value. This is because he sticks more closely to the text than other authors, and does not use American sayings for certain things. He translates things literally, word for word. This allows for the theme to be conveyed in a better way.
The title The Stranger, is appropriate for the book. I would not change it. It suits Mersault's character, and it suits the way Camus describes the setting and characterizes the various characters.
In my opinion, Matthew Ward's translation holds the most literary value. This is because he sticks more closely to the text than other authors, and does not use American sayings for certain things. He translates things literally, word for word. This allows for the theme to be conveyed in a better way.
The title The Stranger, is appropriate for the book. I would not change it. It suits Mersault's character, and it suits the way Camus describes the setting and characterizes the various characters.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Journal #1
Tabbing. The Stranger
1) Repetition of thoughts. This tab is to keep track of when Mersault mentions a certain idea, and then revisits it a while later. This shows the leniency of his thought process.(pink)
2) Over explanation of thoughts or actions. This tab tracks the times Mersault gives seemingly too much reasoning behind something he did or said, and tries to find an excuse for it.(orange)
3) Time. This tab keeps track of time, date, time of day, and any form of time Mersault references.(hot pink)
4) Cigarettes/Alcohol. This tab appears any time Mersault mentions a cigarette or any form of alcohol, including any time he expresses a desire for smoking.(yellow)
1) Repetition of thoughts. This tab is to keep track of when Mersault mentions a certain idea, and then revisits it a while later. This shows the leniency of his thought process.(pink)
2) Over explanation of thoughts or actions. This tab tracks the times Mersault gives seemingly too much reasoning behind something he did or said, and tries to find an excuse for it.(orange)
3) Time. This tab keeps track of time, date, time of day, and any form of time Mersault references.(hot pink)
4) Cigarettes/Alcohol. This tab appears any time Mersault mentions a cigarette or any form of alcohol, including any time he expresses a desire for smoking.(yellow)
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Journal #10
The unbalance of power within a relationship will ultimately lead to its failure. I believe that although this theme may need some reworking, it offer quite an amount of evidence in Janies various relationships.
- "She knew now that marriage did not make love." (p.25)
- "If Ah kin haul de wood heah and chop it fuh yuh, look lak uh oughta be able tuh tote it inside [...] You done been spoilt rotten." (p.26)
- "You don't need mah help out dere, Logan. Youse in yo' place and Ah'm in mine." (p.31)
- "I God, Ah ain't nowhere near old enough to have no grown daughter. This here is mah wife."
- "It must have been the way Joe spoke out without giving her a chance to say anything one way or another that took the bloom off things."
- "Janie, Ah'll git hold uh somebody tuh help out in de store and you kin look after things whilst Ah drum up things otherwise."
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Journal #9
Mini-Pastiche #2
Jen stared bleakly at the rusting pipes visible through the broken ceiling. Yet another example of the problems within her home. Her marriage was falling apart at the seams and the only thing she could do to better the conditions surrounding it, would tear it further apart.
"Whut are yu doing in here woman! I told yu to keep yuself in the kitchin where yus belong!" Her husband tottered into their bedroom.
"Ahm jus takin' a break Sam. Ah'll be right thur in a bit." Responded Jen. There was no way to placate Sam when he was drinking. He held all the power, and even more when his actions were inhibited. Shame. Anger. Just a few of the emotions that broiled within her.
"Yu be sure to be be back soon girl, if not be sure yu'll get a whippin'."
"Yes Sam suh."
Jen stared at Sam's tense yet loose posture as he ambled back into another part of the house. She recalled a time at the beginning of her marriage when all seemed peaceful, and serene. They had been relaxing under a shedding tree, eating the fruits it bore.
"Jen suguh, ah swear ah'll always do gud by yu. Ah'll nevah let the drink take hold o' me like it did my fathuh." Jen recalled Sam's words. Back then, all had seemed perfect. However, as time progressed, Jen became less and less of a person, resulting in a mere shadow that tended to Sam's whims and needs down to the last letter. Jen had no idea how this had come around, but knew she needed to take hold of her life again.
In my passage I used the theme of "unbalances of power in a relationship ultimately lead to failure". My passage mirrors one of Hurstons main themes, that she portrays in Janie's two failed marriages.
Techniques I used include: symbolism, dialect, syntax, flashback, and oxymoron.
Symbolism is portrayed in the opening sentence. That Jen could see the interior of her home breaking down was a representation of her relationship that was exposed and breaking down.
Dialect is apparent through the characters dialogue. They have sort of an uneducated form of speaking, yet the narrarators voice is educated. This mirrors Hurstons novel.
Syntax is viewed all throughout the passage, and specifically in the middle. I use short concise phrases in order to express how the narrarator - Jen, feels about about her husbands treatment.
Flashback is used in order to show a contrast between the current situation in the marriage, and the past. Also, a bit of irony is shown because of Jen's expectation, and her reality.
Oxymoron is used when Jen is describing her husbands posture. It's a condradiction that contrasts his feelings with his physical state.
Jen stared bleakly at the rusting pipes visible through the broken ceiling. Yet another example of the problems within her home. Her marriage was falling apart at the seams and the only thing she could do to better the conditions surrounding it, would tear it further apart.
"Whut are yu doing in here woman! I told yu to keep yuself in the kitchin where yus belong!" Her husband tottered into their bedroom.
"Ahm jus takin' a break Sam. Ah'll be right thur in a bit." Responded Jen. There was no way to placate Sam when he was drinking. He held all the power, and even more when his actions were inhibited. Shame. Anger. Just a few of the emotions that broiled within her.
"Yu be sure to be be back soon girl, if not be sure yu'll get a whippin'."
"Yes Sam suh."
Jen stared at Sam's tense yet loose posture as he ambled back into another part of the house. She recalled a time at the beginning of her marriage when all seemed peaceful, and serene. They had been relaxing under a shedding tree, eating the fruits it bore.
"Jen suguh, ah swear ah'll always do gud by yu. Ah'll nevah let the drink take hold o' me like it did my fathuh." Jen recalled Sam's words. Back then, all had seemed perfect. However, as time progressed, Jen became less and less of a person, resulting in a mere shadow that tended to Sam's whims and needs down to the last letter. Jen had no idea how this had come around, but knew she needed to take hold of her life again.
In my passage I used the theme of "unbalances of power in a relationship ultimately lead to failure". My passage mirrors one of Hurstons main themes, that she portrays in Janie's two failed marriages.
Techniques I used include: symbolism, dialect, syntax, flashback, and oxymoron.
Symbolism is portrayed in the opening sentence. That Jen could see the interior of her home breaking down was a representation of her relationship that was exposed and breaking down.
Dialect is apparent through the characters dialogue. They have sort of an uneducated form of speaking, yet the narrarators voice is educated. This mirrors Hurstons novel.
Syntax is viewed all throughout the passage, and specifically in the middle. I use short concise phrases in order to express how the narrarator - Jen, feels about about her husbands treatment.
Flashback is used in order to show a contrast between the current situation in the marriage, and the past. Also, a bit of irony is shown because of Jen's expectation, and her reality.
Oxymoron is used when Jen is describing her husbands posture. It's a condradiction that contrasts his feelings with his physical state.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Journal #8
Stylistic Attributes
1. "He was lying on his side facing the door like he was expecting somebody or something. A sort of changing look on his face. Weak-looking but sharp-pointed about the eyes. Through the thin counterpane she could see what was left of his belly huddled before him on the bed like some helpless thing seeking shelter"
An oxymoron is present in this passage, when Hurston says "weak-looking but sharp-pointed". Hurston uses this in order to emphasize whats left of Joes spirit shining through his faded exterior. Personification is also used in this passage. This is used to add character to the text.
2. "Janie starched and ironed her face and came set in the funeral behind her veil. It was like a wall of stone and steel. The funeral was going on outside. All things concerning death and burial were said and done. Finish. End. Nevermore. Darkness. Deep hole. Dissolution. Eternity. Weeping and wailing outside. Inside the expensive black folds were resurrection and life. She did not reach outside for anything, nor did the things of death reach inside to disturb her calm."
Syntax plays the role of the predominant technique in this passage. Hurston uses short concise sentences while expressing Janie's feelings about Joe's death and burial. She does this in order to emphasize the brusqueness Janie felt, and her opinion in general.
3."The next morning Pheoby picked her way over to Janie's house like a hen to a neighbor's garden. Stopped and talked a little with everyone she met, turned aside momentarily to pause at a porch or too-going straight by walking crooked. So her firm intention looked like an accident and she didn't have to give her opinion to folks along the way"
The literary technique displayed here is that of a paradox, a contradiction. Hurston uses this particular technique in order to expose Pheoby's actual intentions to the reader, but not the rest of the characters.
1. "He was lying on his side facing the door like he was expecting somebody or something. A sort of changing look on his face. Weak-looking but sharp-pointed about the eyes. Through the thin counterpane she could see what was left of his belly huddled before him on the bed like some helpless thing seeking shelter"
An oxymoron is present in this passage, when Hurston says "weak-looking but sharp-pointed". Hurston uses this in order to emphasize whats left of Joes spirit shining through his faded exterior. Personification is also used in this passage. This is used to add character to the text.
2. "Janie starched and ironed her face and came set in the funeral behind her veil. It was like a wall of stone and steel. The funeral was going on outside. All things concerning death and burial were said and done. Finish. End. Nevermore. Darkness. Deep hole. Dissolution. Eternity. Weeping and wailing outside. Inside the expensive black folds were resurrection and life. She did not reach outside for anything, nor did the things of death reach inside to disturb her calm."
Syntax plays the role of the predominant technique in this passage. Hurston uses short concise sentences while expressing Janie's feelings about Joe's death and burial. She does this in order to emphasize the brusqueness Janie felt, and her opinion in general.
3."The next morning Pheoby picked her way over to Janie's house like a hen to a neighbor's garden. Stopped and talked a little with everyone she met, turned aside momentarily to pause at a porch or too-going straight by walking crooked. So her firm intention looked like an accident and she didn't have to give her opinion to folks along the way"
The literary technique displayed here is that of a paradox, a contradiction. Hurston uses this particular technique in order to expose Pheoby's actual intentions to the reader, but not the rest of the characters.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Journal #7
Pastiche
And John began to dream of Jealousy. Jealousy and its millions of tentacles reaching and grasping towards dominance in all places. Untouchable and invincible, roaming throughout the land, with no need for shelter of any sort. Never lying still, extremities forever grasping at all possible weaknesses. Existent since the beginning of time, and would be until the end of humanity. John would find his reach enclosing close relationships soon. He was worried about it's future effects. What would occur when tentacles gained hold of his already fatigued relationship with Jane? He tried and tried to fix it somehow, but his counter part refused.
Jane believed she was in the right about all matters pertaining to their relationship, but truth was, she didn't know much. It would soon be over, she had an idea of how and why. Jane was convinced of this. But it wouldn't, not if John could evade it. Emotions, previously unknown to John, began to pool in his mind. Sentiments and thoughts contrasting those previous of love and sorrow were gathering. Anger, that raging, sprawling feline, began to prowl amidst his otherwise calm mind.
And John began to dream of Jealousy. Jealousy and its millions of tentacles reaching and grasping towards dominance in all places. Untouchable and invincible, roaming throughout the land, with no need for shelter of any sort. Never lying still, extremities forever grasping at all possible weaknesses. Existent since the beginning of time, and would be until the end of humanity. John would find his reach enclosing close relationships soon. He was worried about it's future effects. What would occur when tentacles gained hold of his already fatigued relationship with Jane? He tried and tried to fix it somehow, but his counter part refused.
Jane believed she was in the right about all matters pertaining to their relationship, but truth was, she didn't know much. It would soon be over, she had an idea of how and why. Jane was convinced of this. But it wouldn't, not if John could evade it. Emotions, previously unknown to John, began to pool in his mind. Sentiments and thoughts contrasting those previous of love and sorrow were gathering. Anger, that raging, sprawling feline, began to prowl amidst his otherwise calm mind.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Journal #6
Death
"So Janie began to think of Death. Death, that strange being with the huge square toes who lived way in the West. The great one who lived in the straight house like a platform without sides to it, and without a roof. What need has Death for a cover, and what winds can blow against him? He stands in his high house that overlooks the world. Stands watchful and motionless all day with his sword drawn back, waiting for the messenger to bid him come. Been standing there before there was a where or a when or a then. She was liable to find a feather from his wings lying in her yard any day now. She was sad and afraid too. Poor Jody! He ought not to have to wrassle in there by himself. She sent Sam in to suggest a visit, but Jody said No. These medical doctors wuz all right with the Godly sick, but they didn't know a thing about a case like his. He'd be all right just as soon as the two-headed man found what had been buried against him. He wasn't going to die at all. That was what he thought. But Sam told her different, so she knew. And then if he hadn't, the next morning she was bound to know, for people began to gather in the big yard under the palm and china-berry trees. People who would not have dared to foot the place before crept in and did not come to the house. Just squatted under the trees and waited. Rumor, the wingless bird, had shadowed over the town." (pg.84, Hurston)
"So Janie began to think of Death. Death, that strange being with the huge square toes who lived way in the West. The great one who lived in the straight house like a platform without sides to it, and without a roof. What need has Death for a cover, and what winds can blow against him? He stands in his high house that overlooks the world. Stands watchful and motionless all day with his sword drawn back, waiting for the messenger to bid him come. Been standing there before there was a where or a when or a then. She was liable to find a feather from his wings lying in her yard any day now. She was sad and afraid too. Poor Jody! He ought not to have to wrassle in there by himself. She sent Sam in to suggest a visit, but Jody said No. These medical doctors wuz all right with the Godly sick, but they didn't know a thing about a case like his. He'd be all right just as soon as the two-headed man found what had been buried against him. He wasn't going to die at all. That was what he thought. But Sam told her different, so she knew. And then if he hadn't, the next morning she was bound to know, for people began to gather in the big yard under the palm and china-berry trees. People who would not have dared to foot the place before crept in and did not come to the house. Just squatted under the trees and waited. Rumor, the wingless bird, had shadowed over the town." (pg.84, Hurston)
- Death is personified as a seemingly all powerful bird. This is emphasized when Janie explains that he has no need for sides of a house or a roof, because he cannot be hurt.
- The bird is described in such a way that makes him seem omnicisient.
- Death is repeated all throughout the passage, with a capitalized "D".
- First Death is described vaguely, slowly growing in detail later on in the passage.
- Janie using a nickname for Joe and narrarating the passage shows her growth of control of her life and dreams.
- Another demonstration of Janie's growing control is her decision to suggest doctors to Joe.
Journal #5
Thesis Statement
Zora Neale Hurston utilizes the technique of foreshadowing when introducing the plot in order to create a sense of curiosity and expectation in the audience. Hurston uses this technique in order to draw the reader in.
Zora Neale Hurston utilizes the technique of foreshadowing when introducing the plot in order to create a sense of curiosity and expectation in the audience. Hurston uses this technique in order to draw the reader in.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Journal #4
Pattern 1:
The first pattern I noticed was one of males assuming dominance and ownership over Janie. This is displayed in various places in the book, such as:
pg.31: "You ain't got no particular place. It's wherever Ah need yuh. Git uh move on yuh, and dat quick."
pg.43: "Thank yuh fuh yo' compliments, but mah wife don't know nothin' bout no speech-makin'. Ah never married her for nothin' lak dat. She's uh woman and her place is in de home."
Pattern 2:
The second pattern that caught my attention is the connection of love and marriage to trees and plants.
pg.10: "She saw the dust bearing bee sink into the sanctum of a bloom; the thousand sister-calyxes arch to meet the love embrace and the ecstatic shiver of the tree from root to tiniest branch creaming in every blossom and frothing with delight. So this was marriage!"
pg.24: "Ah wants things sweet wid mah marriage lak when you sit under a pear tree and think. Ah. . ."
pg.106: "He could be a bee to a blossom- a pear tree blossom in the spring."
Pattern 3:
Lastly, the third pattern I found was that of new and better things appearing or happening with the appearance of the sun. Love is also very involved with the sun.
pg.25: "It was wonderful to see it take form with the sun and emerge from the gray dust of its making."
pg.29: "Leave e s'posin' and everything else to me. Ah'll be down dis road uh little after sunup tomorrow mornin' to wait for you. [. . .]"
pg.33: "So they were married there before sundown, just like Joe had said."
The first pattern I noticed was one of males assuming dominance and ownership over Janie. This is displayed in various places in the book, such as:
pg.31: "You ain't got no particular place. It's wherever Ah need yuh. Git uh move on yuh, and dat quick."
pg.43: "Thank yuh fuh yo' compliments, but mah wife don't know nothin' bout no speech-makin'. Ah never married her for nothin' lak dat. She's uh woman and her place is in de home."
Pattern 2:
The second pattern that caught my attention is the connection of love and marriage to trees and plants.
pg.10: "She saw the dust bearing bee sink into the sanctum of a bloom; the thousand sister-calyxes arch to meet the love embrace and the ecstatic shiver of the tree from root to tiniest branch creaming in every blossom and frothing with delight. So this was marriage!"
pg.24: "Ah wants things sweet wid mah marriage lak when you sit under a pear tree and think. Ah. . ."
pg.106: "He could be a bee to a blossom- a pear tree blossom in the spring."
Pattern 3:
Lastly, the third pattern I found was that of new and better things appearing or happening with the appearance of the sun. Love is also very involved with the sun.
pg.25: "It was wonderful to see it take form with the sun and emerge from the gray dust of its making."
pg.29: "Leave e s'posin' and everything else to me. Ah'll be down dis road uh little after sunup tomorrow mornin' to wait for you. [. . .]"
pg.33: "So they were married there before sundown, just like Joe had said."
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Journal #3
Harlem Renaissance.
The figure I chose to research was an important musician in the Harlem Renaissance. His name is William "Count" Basie. Count Basie played the piano and the organ, apart from composing music and directing his jazz ensemble, Count Basie Orchestra. He gained various awards for his musical work. He shortly played in the band "Famous Blue Devils", along with Jimmy Rushing. Two hits he became known for include April in Paris, and One O'Clock Jump.
I am using the way Spanish in my town differs from typical Spanish as inspiration. The reason I am using this as a prompt for my dialect is because the way we speak in my town is very distinctive and differs greatly from normal Spanish. However, my imagination will be contributing to some of the more creative characteristics.
Rules.
Grammar
Dialogue.
"Who are you?" sighed Count Basie. "Why must I keep meeting strange citizens in pecuilar ways?"
"Whut do you meun who um I!" Shouted the outraged man.
"I mean what I asked, who are you? I've never seen you around in this particular bus" replied Basie.
"I'vs bayen driving this burakp for fpherp pust six yayars. I'vs known you ayver since yuhn wayre six yeurs younger thun yuhn ure!" answered the man, who wore a name tag with "Bobero" imprinted on it.
"Well my fine friend, you obviously must have some mental defect, because there has never been a bus driver named Bobero who lacked the ability to speak coherent English." Basie snapped.
"Wayll look who's culling the taya kayjle.. nayvermind. Yuhn huvay mispronounced my numay." said Bobero smugly.
"What are you talking about?! Your name is Bobero, there is simply no way to mispronounce it, because it is not a real word." replied the shocked Count Basie.
"Wayll aycuse yuhn! It is pronounced Bobayro!" exclaimed Bobero.
"I'm sorry to inform you that you are completely incorrect. There is no way your name is or could be pronounced in that way" remarked Basie.
"Yuhn cun usk thut mina sijing right thayre" answered Bobero with confidence.
"What? Who is Mina? What is a Mina?" questioned Count Basie.
Bobero replied in an annoyed tone, "Thut young ludy sijing right thayre! Don't yuhn see hayr? Shay's wayaring a juckayt purple."
"I am afraid I cannot tolerate this kind of blatant disrespect. I will be riding a different bus in the future, and I wish you a good- actuajy scratch that, a horrible day sir." said Basie.
"Wayj good ridduncay to yuhn. I hopay nayver to saye yuhn uguain." muttered Bobero.
Comment
I commented on Megan Davis's blog.
The figure I chose to research was an important musician in the Harlem Renaissance. His name is William "Count" Basie. Count Basie played the piano and the organ, apart from composing music and directing his jazz ensemble, Count Basie Orchestra. He gained various awards for his musical work. He shortly played in the band "Famous Blue Devils", along with Jimmy Rushing. Two hits he became known for include April in Paris, and One O'Clock Jump.
I am using the way Spanish in my town differs from typical Spanish as inspiration. The reason I am using this as a prompt for my dialect is because the way we speak in my town is very distinctive and differs greatly from normal Spanish. However, my imagination will be contributing to some of the more creative characteristics.
Rules.
Grammar
- In Spanish, the word vos is used instead of tu, because it is more informal. Since I can't write this in Spanish, I will be substituting yuhn for you.
- When describing an object, the adjective will go after the word. For example, "the blue car" turns into "the car blue". I'm doing this because in Spanish objects are described like that.
- Questions are inexistent, they are phrased as commands. For example, "will you pick that up" turns into, "you will pick that up". This is done because in Spanish questions and commands differ merely by the tone they are said with. In a command, emphasis is usually put on the first word, and in a question, a questioning tone is used.
- The first"e" in a word is pronounced as "ay".
- Double "L's" (LL), and double "T's" (TT) are pronounced as "J". For example, "jello" would be "jejo". This is because in Argentinean Spanish, the double "L" is pronounced like this.
- "A's" are pronounced as "u" due to a mutation in my character's vocal chords.
- "Girl" is replaced with "Mina".
- "Bus" is replaced with "Burakp"
- "The" is replaced with "Fpherp", therefore, it is pronounced "ffffffayrp".
Dialogue.
"Who are you?" sighed Count Basie. "Why must I keep meeting strange citizens in pecuilar ways?"
"Whut do you meun who um I!" Shouted the outraged man.
"I mean what I asked, who are you? I've never seen you around in this particular bus" replied Basie.
"I'vs bayen driving this burakp for fpherp pust six yayars. I'vs known you ayver since yuhn wayre six yeurs younger thun yuhn ure!" answered the man, who wore a name tag with "Bobero" imprinted on it.
"Well my fine friend, you obviously must have some mental defect, because there has never been a bus driver named Bobero who lacked the ability to speak coherent English." Basie snapped.
"Wayll look who's culling the taya kayjle.. nayvermind. Yuhn huvay mispronounced my numay." said Bobero smugly.
"What are you talking about?! Your name is Bobero, there is simply no way to mispronounce it, because it is not a real word." replied the shocked Count Basie.
"Wayll aycuse yuhn! It is pronounced Bobayro!" exclaimed Bobero.
"I'm sorry to inform you that you are completely incorrect. There is no way your name is or could be pronounced in that way" remarked Basie.
"Yuhn cun usk thut mina sijing right thayre" answered Bobero with confidence.
"What? Who is Mina? What is a Mina?" questioned Count Basie.
Bobero replied in an annoyed tone, "Thut young ludy sijing right thayre! Don't yuhn see hayr? Shay's wayaring a juckayt purple."
"I am afraid I cannot tolerate this kind of blatant disrespect. I will be riding a different bus in the future, and I wish you a good- actuajy scratch that, a horrible day sir." said Basie.
"Wayj good ridduncay to yuhn. I hopay nayver to saye yuhn uguain." muttered Bobero.
Comment
I commented on Megan Davis's blog.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Journal #2
She was stretched on her back beneath the pear tree soaking in the alto chant of the visiting bees, the gold of the sun and the panting breath of the breeze when the inaudible voice of it all came to her. She saw a dust-bearing bee sink into the sanctum of a bloom; the thousand sister-calyxes arch to meet the love embrace and the ecstatic shiver of the tree from root to the tiniest branch creaming in every branch and frothing with delight. So this was a marriage! She had been summoned to behold a revelation. Then Janie felt a pain remorseless sweet that left her limp and languid.
- This passage personifies all the inanimate objects such as the tree, and creates a sense of life and interaction between it and its extremities.
- The bees are also personified, they a a group are said to have an "alto chant", something that usually applies to a group of people.
- The letter "B" is repeated a lot, such as in bees, breeze, breath, bloom,branch.
- Love and strong emotions are invoked within the whole paragraph.
- There is a possible reference to God, because it is not clarified who she had been summoned by to behold a revelation.
- A lot of descriptive language present.
- The adjectives present are very passionate.
- This passage almost seems overly sexualized, perhaps to emphasize Janie's innocence at a younger age.
- Some foreshadowing seems to be present: "So this was marriage!" refers to Janie's three upcoming marriages.
- Hurston uses the tree to illustrate Janie's view of marriage by utilizing descriptive words and creating a sense of love and life within it.
- The "thousand sister-calyxes" are personified and given a role with the bees.
- There seems to be a relaxed mood.
- The whole setting is explained in a detailed manner.
- Janie isn't referred to by name until the last sentence, thus ambiguity and vagueness is very apparent.
- Janie interprets the scenario as an idealistic portrayal of marriage.
Journal #1
I would tell my life story to my children, and my grandchildren. Although my life isn't and probably won't be fascinating, I feel like it would explain future actions and behaviors that they might struggle to understand. I would like for them to know why I became the person I will be, and know which events completely changed me, and how. I would want to hear their opinions on my experiences and see how what I've told them would affect them. I think it would help them make better choices and possibly avoid conflicts.
I would begin from the moment I found out I was moving to Argentina, in seventh grade. I'm picking this moment because this episode of my life is the one that has changed my view on life and my philosophies. I would start from the beginning, from the way my parents told me we were leaving. I'd tell them how i reacted, every emotion I felt, and which actions I took as a consequence. Later, I would describe every thought developing in my mind as I stepped into my new home, and again when I arrived at the foreign, unknown school I would spend two years in. I feel like it's crucial to explain it all in a detailed manner, because each new moment affected me in some way, affected my actions, thus affecting my relationships and choices. These all contributed to forming my personality and my perspective on others and the world, and that is why I chose this experience.
I would begin from the moment I found out I was moving to Argentina, in seventh grade. I'm picking this moment because this episode of my life is the one that has changed my view on life and my philosophies. I would start from the beginning, from the way my parents told me we were leaving. I'd tell them how i reacted, every emotion I felt, and which actions I took as a consequence. Later, I would describe every thought developing in my mind as I stepped into my new home, and again when I arrived at the foreign, unknown school I would spend two years in. I feel like it's crucial to explain it all in a detailed manner, because each new moment affected me in some way, affected my actions, thus affecting my relationships and choices. These all contributed to forming my personality and my perspective on others and the world, and that is why I chose this experience.
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