Do you think that Hamlet has created his own insanity, or has he lost his sense of reality completely?
Hamlet is not insane, he has created his own insanity. He makes Horatio swear to keep seeing the Ghost a secret, no matter "how strange or odd some'er I [Hamlet] bear myself"(1.5.190). Hamlet realizes that in carrying out revenge for his father may cause him to act insanely. Hamlet reiterates this when he explains, "I am mad but north-north-west. When the wind is southerly, I know a hawk from a handshaw"(2.2.402). Hamlet knows when to act mad and when to act normally. Hamlet has experienced great tragedy in the death of his father and the quick marriage between Gertrude and Claudius. Many perfectly sane people would see logic in Hamlet immediately carrying out revenge on his father's murderer. However, Hamlet shows us his sanity in being unsure of vengeance. He feels sorrow and anger for what has happened, and his hesitation to act impulsively shows us that Hamlet has a good heart and is able to sanely rationalize and think about his actions. Hamlet does decide to carry out revenge and realizes that to follow through with what his father says, he may need to do crazy things. Acting insanely may also be a part of Hamlet's plan for vengeance.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Essential #6
What parallels can be drawn between the Pardoner's Prologue and his tale? How is this tale different from the other two that we have studied? Think in regards to the Pardoner's voice and how Chaucer's style changes.
The Pardoner reveals important information about himself through his the Prologue and his tale. The Pardoner is nothing but a greedy, hypocritical liar. He claims that all of his sermons preach about the sin of avarice: "I preach for nothing but for greed of gain"(243). The Pardoner admits that "my exclusive purpose is to win And not at all to castigate their sin"(243). He preaches to people about honesty and purity, when he practices neither of those virtues. In the Pardoner's Tale, he first preaches of the evils of sin. He then goes on to describe a story of three boys who were so consumed by greed that it ultimately led to their deaths:"these two murderers received their due, So did the treacherous young poisoner too"(256). It is ironic that the Pardoner's story preaches of the evils of sin, especially greed. His entire occupation is based off of acts that he condemns. The Pardoner, like the boys from his tale, tricks and stabs others in the back for his own personal monetary gain. Even more ironically, at the end of his tale he asks the group "If there be one among you that is willing to have my absolution for a shilling"(257). The Pardoner has the nerve to try and trick those whom he had just revealed his true nature too. He unquestionably "tell[s] a hundred lying mockeries"(242).
The Pardoner reveals important information about himself through his the Prologue and his tale. The Pardoner is nothing but a greedy, hypocritical liar. He claims that all of his sermons preach about the sin of avarice: "I preach for nothing but for greed of gain"(243). The Pardoner admits that "my exclusive purpose is to win And not at all to castigate their sin"(243). He preaches to people about honesty and purity, when he practices neither of those virtues. In the Pardoner's Tale, he first preaches of the evils of sin. He then goes on to describe a story of three boys who were so consumed by greed that it ultimately led to their deaths:"these two murderers received their due, So did the treacherous young poisoner too"(256). It is ironic that the Pardoner's story preaches of the evils of sin, especially greed. His entire occupation is based off of acts that he condemns. The Pardoner, like the boys from his tale, tricks and stabs others in the back for his own personal monetary gain. Even more ironically, at the end of his tale he asks the group "If there be one among you that is willing to have my absolution for a shilling"(257). The Pardoner has the nerve to try and trick those whom he had just revealed his true nature too. He unquestionably "tell[s] a hundred lying mockeries"(242).
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Constructing Society
Society, real or fictional, is rarely perfect. However, If I had the opportunity to create my own ideal society, the five people I would chose to make up my society would be: Tom Brady, Michelle Obama, Heidi Klum, Batman, and Adam Savage. The combination of different roles, strengths, and talents that this group of men and women bring are the necessary components for creating an ideal society.
Every society needs to have a strong leader. Tom Brady would be the hero and leader of this society. He has experience leading because he is the quarterback and captain of the New England Patriots. Tom Brady has experienced pressure situations throughout his career, and overcoming tough obstacles ensures that he would be a strong role model for the other members in society. Furthermore, Tom Brady would also serve as a procreator and a father figure. He already has one child, and this experience in addition to his amiable character would allow him to be a father figure in the community.
Michelle Obama would complement Tom Brady's strong leadership though her sapience. Her role as First Lady has given her necessary leadership skills in society. She would be a peacemaker and a decision maker. She is able to make wise decisions and think things through fully to ensure the best possible outcome for a society. She would be a positive role model and influence to those around her. She could also play a nurturing role, as she already has two children. Michelle Obama would be a great addition to any society.
Every society needs a guardian. Batman would serve as both a guardian and law enforcement. He would fight criminals that threaten society. Also, in the movie "The Dark Knight" one of Batman's roles is to be the scapegoat. Batman stepped up and unselfishly took on the responsibilities that no one else could handle for the good of the community. Also, Batman's true identity is Bruce Wayne. Bruce Wayne would also greatly contribute to society because of experience of management and seemingly endless bank account.
Heidi Klum would serve society by being a lover, nurturer, and procreator. She is beautiful and could be seen as the temptation, wife, or princess. Heidi has four children of her own and would definitely be looked upon as a nurturing, motherly figure. She is a model, actress, artist, television hostess, and fashion designer and could provide a lot of much needed entertainment in the community. She is also a business woman and could help stabilize an economy.
Adam Savage of the television show "Mythbusters" would be a great asset to any society. He is an extremely intelligent inventor. He could educate others and teach them how to manufacture and build things. He has great problem solving skills and would be extremely helpful in the physical construction of society. He would also bring comedy and entertainment to the society, which is always needed.
This society would be lacking in some areas. For example, there would be no religious leaders, educators, or workers. However, religion could develop over time and people would have the freedom to choose their own religions. Furthermore, there may be no specific educators, but everyone should be an educator. All of the members of the society are educated and would pass their knowledge to others. Similar to educators, all members of societies would be workers. Everyone has to do their fair share of hard work to make the society great, this is a responsibility that should be shared by all.
No society is perfect. However, in an ideal society all members' strengths will compliment one another's to form a fully functional community. Well-rounded, hard working members of society will ensure that a society will grow productively. Tom Brady, Michelle Obama, Batman, Heidi Klum, and Adam Savage bring the skills and diversity needed to create an effective society.
Every society needs to have a strong leader. Tom Brady would be the hero and leader of this society. He has experience leading because he is the quarterback and captain of the New England Patriots. Tom Brady has experienced pressure situations throughout his career, and overcoming tough obstacles ensures that he would be a strong role model for the other members in society. Furthermore, Tom Brady would also serve as a procreator and a father figure. He already has one child, and this experience in addition to his amiable character would allow him to be a father figure in the community.
Michelle Obama would complement Tom Brady's strong leadership though her sapience. Her role as First Lady has given her necessary leadership skills in society. She would be a peacemaker and a decision maker. She is able to make wise decisions and think things through fully to ensure the best possible outcome for a society. She would be a positive role model and influence to those around her. She could also play a nurturing role, as she already has two children. Michelle Obama would be a great addition to any society.
Every society needs a guardian. Batman would serve as both a guardian and law enforcement. He would fight criminals that threaten society. Also, in the movie "The Dark Knight" one of Batman's roles is to be the scapegoat. Batman stepped up and unselfishly took on the responsibilities that no one else could handle for the good of the community. Also, Batman's true identity is Bruce Wayne. Bruce Wayne would also greatly contribute to society because of experience of management and seemingly endless bank account.
Heidi Klum would serve society by being a lover, nurturer, and procreator. She is beautiful and could be seen as the temptation, wife, or princess. Heidi has four children of her own and would definitely be looked upon as a nurturing, motherly figure. She is a model, actress, artist, television hostess, and fashion designer and could provide a lot of much needed entertainment in the community. She is also a business woman and could help stabilize an economy.
Adam Savage of the television show "Mythbusters" would be a great asset to any society. He is an extremely intelligent inventor. He could educate others and teach them how to manufacture and build things. He has great problem solving skills and would be extremely helpful in the physical construction of society. He would also bring comedy and entertainment to the society, which is always needed.
This society would be lacking in some areas. For example, there would be no religious leaders, educators, or workers. However, religion could develop over time and people would have the freedom to choose their own religions. Furthermore, there may be no specific educators, but everyone should be an educator. All of the members of the society are educated and would pass their knowledge to others. Similar to educators, all members of societies would be workers. Everyone has to do their fair share of hard work to make the society great, this is a responsibility that should be shared by all.
No society is perfect. However, in an ideal society all members' strengths will compliment one another's to form a fully functional community. Well-rounded, hard working members of society will ensure that a society will grow productively. Tom Brady, Michelle Obama, Batman, Heidi Klum, and Adam Savage bring the skills and diversity needed to create an effective society.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Essential #4
Choice 2: Where do we see the seduction and lust start to destroy Gawain, our young hero? What is the author trying to tell us?
Gawain's major weakness as a hero is falling into the temptation of seduction and lust. As a knight, it is Gawain's responsibility to uphold a certain chivalric code. This honorable code entails following the very important five knightly virtues: friendship, generosity, courtesy, chastity, and piety. Giving in to lust causes Gawain to break each one of these virtues while he is staying with his host. Gawain and his host's wife "Were accorded so closely in company there"(1011). While taking advantage of his host's generosity by accepting large amounts of food, clothing, and women, he also breaks the remaining virtues when he commits adultery with his host's wife. When Gawain "prays with all his might"(737), he finds a castle to take shelter in. Gawain accepting a challenge from the Green Knight symbolizes his temptation for lust, as in medieval times green symbolized lust. As Gawain continues to break the chivalric code and grow away from God, bad things will come about in his future.
Similar to Beowulf, the author is trying to instill proper values in the readers. Gawain is being made an example of so that readers will not indulge in the sin of lust, and remain chaste, virtuous, and honest.
Gawain's major weakness as a hero is falling into the temptation of seduction and lust. As a knight, it is Gawain's responsibility to uphold a certain chivalric code. This honorable code entails following the very important five knightly virtues: friendship, generosity, courtesy, chastity, and piety. Giving in to lust causes Gawain to break each one of these virtues while he is staying with his host. Gawain and his host's wife "Were accorded so closely in company there"(1011). While taking advantage of his host's generosity by accepting large amounts of food, clothing, and women, he also breaks the remaining virtues when he commits adultery with his host's wife. When Gawain "prays with all his might"(737), he finds a castle to take shelter in. Gawain accepting a challenge from the Green Knight symbolizes his temptation for lust, as in medieval times green symbolized lust. As Gawain continues to break the chivalric code and grow away from God, bad things will come about in his future.
Similar to Beowulf, the author is trying to instill proper values in the readers. Gawain is being made an example of so that readers will not indulge in the sin of lust, and remain chaste, virtuous, and honest.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Dating Rules
1. While on a date, it is important to practice good manners. This rule applies especially at dinner. No talking with food in your mouth, or being rude to the staff. You want your date to want to be seen in public with you.
2. Remain focused on your date. This is a time to enjoy being with one another. This means no texting or calling other people, and certainly means not looking at other members of the opposite sex instead of your date.
3. Keep the conversation flowing; no one likes awkward silences. Talk about similar interests, and not subjects that are too controversial.
4. Be sure to share. Be sure to share aspects about yourself with your date in conversation, but also be sure to share the conversation yourself. No one likes to listen to one person talk about themseves the whole time. So, ask your date questions and listen to what they have to say, too.
5. Relax and have fun. Laugh and joke around to make each other feel comfortable. You are together to get to know each other and see if a relationship might be possible, do not act as if you are interviewing each other.
6. If you are interested in having a relationship with your date, let them know. Do not wait too long to talk to your date again or you will never make progress. Find common ground between being overly eager and playing hard to get.
2. Remain focused on your date. This is a time to enjoy being with one another. This means no texting or calling other people, and certainly means not looking at other members of the opposite sex instead of your date.
3. Keep the conversation flowing; no one likes awkward silences. Talk about similar interests, and not subjects that are too controversial.
4. Be sure to share. Be sure to share aspects about yourself with your date in conversation, but also be sure to share the conversation yourself. No one likes to listen to one person talk about themseves the whole time. So, ask your date questions and listen to what they have to say, too.
5. Relax and have fun. Laugh and joke around to make each other feel comfortable. You are together to get to know each other and see if a relationship might be possible, do not act as if you are interviewing each other.
6. If you are interested in having a relationship with your date, let them know. Do not wait too long to talk to your date again or you will never make progress. Find common ground between being overly eager and playing hard to get.
7. Be honest with one another. In a relationship, honesty is key from the start. As you start to get to know each other more, say how you really feel. No one likes being lied to, and ruining someone's trust is a step in ruining a relationship.
8. To be in a successful relationship you need to be able to communicate effectively. As you get to know your date more it is important to share deeper thoughts and feelings. Communication helps the two of you grow stronger as a couple and overcome problems and difficulties together.
9. Show your appreciation. Everyone likes to be assured that they are loved and appreciated. Relationships are about working together and for one another. Gifts and kind words can go a long way in showing your appreciation and making someone else happy.
10. If you break up, it may be very painful and as difficult as it seems, try not to have hard feelings. Being angry with someone makes it impossible to let go. Wish them well, and then pick yourself by focusing on yourself, work, friends, or anything that will help you feel better.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Essential #2
Discuss biblical allusions and religious symbolism in Beowulf.
There are numerous different religious allusions and symbolism presented in Beowulf. Both the Danes and the Geats believe that God and fate are the reason for all of life's events. People, like Beowulf, all have their futures predetermined. Those who are successful, are given the tools they need to succeed combined with the will of God to enable them to achieve greatness. They attribute all of their victories to god: "had not holy God granted him victory; the wise Lord, Ruler of the Heavens, settled the issue easily after the hero had scrambled to his feet"(1537-1540). God's influence in their lives is praised as Beowulf, a "man [...] much favored by fate"(1685), proclaims his gratitude after his success in the battle with Grendel's mother: "the risk was enormous; our encounter would have ended at once if God had not guarded me"(1639-1641). In addition to God playing a major role in the lives of the people in Beowulf. There are also many allusions to the Bible. For example, Grendel and his mother both stand for hatred and evil, especially because Grendel is the representation of the devil and the "embittered fiend, enemy of god"(1664-1665). After Grendel and his mother were killed, it was like the world was "purged of its impurity"(1605).
There are numerous different religious allusions and symbolism presented in Beowulf. Both the Danes and the Geats believe that God and fate are the reason for all of life's events. People, like Beowulf, all have their futures predetermined. Those who are successful, are given the tools they need to succeed combined with the will of God to enable them to achieve greatness. They attribute all of their victories to god: "had not holy God granted him victory; the wise Lord, Ruler of the Heavens, settled the issue easily after the hero had scrambled to his feet"(1537-1540). God's influence in their lives is praised as Beowulf, a "man [...] much favored by fate"(1685), proclaims his gratitude after his success in the battle with Grendel's mother: "the risk was enormous; our encounter would have ended at once if God had not guarded me"(1639-1641). In addition to God playing a major role in the lives of the people in Beowulf. There are also many allusions to the Bible. For example, Grendel and his mother both stand for hatred and evil, especially because Grendel is the representation of the devil and the "embittered fiend, enemy of god"(1664-1665). After Grendel and his mother were killed, it was like the world was "purged of its impurity"(1605).
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Essential #1
Essential #1: What are the social obligations of a hero? Is Beowulf aware of his deification process?
Although the actions, powers, or capabilities of a hero may differ, almost all heroes share the same social obligations. Most heroes gain their title and respect from the public by serving and protecting the people. It is a hero's job to be selfless and put the wellbeing of the public before anything. A hero must serve and protect the people, even if it takes an immense amount of courage and strength in a potentially uncomfortable or dangerous situation.
It seems that Beowulf is aware of his deification process. When Beowulf heard of Hrothgar's troubles with Grendel, he "said he would sail over the sea to assist the famous leader; the warrior king, since he needed hardy men"(199-201). Beowulf is confident that his abilities will be able to help Hrothgar, and if Beowulf did not view himself as a hero, he probably would not have gone to aid someone in need of help. Furthermore, like Beowulf, other members of society recognize his heroic qualities, and perpetuate Beowulf's deification process. People who lay eyes on Beowulf for the first time recognize how special he is: "I've never set eyes on a more noble man, a warrior in armor, than one among your band; he's no mere retainer, so enobled by his weapons. May his looks never belie him and his lordly bearing"(244-248), and have no doubt in Beowulf's capabilities: "They, in their armor, seem altogether worthy of the highest esteem. I have no doubt of their leader's might, he who has brought these brave men to Herot"(365-367).
Although the actions, powers, or capabilities of a hero may differ, almost all heroes share the same social obligations. Most heroes gain their title and respect from the public by serving and protecting the people. It is a hero's job to be selfless and put the wellbeing of the public before anything. A hero must serve and protect the people, even if it takes an immense amount of courage and strength in a potentially uncomfortable or dangerous situation.
It seems that Beowulf is aware of his deification process. When Beowulf heard of Hrothgar's troubles with Grendel, he "said he would sail over the sea to assist the famous leader; the warrior king, since he needed hardy men"(199-201). Beowulf is confident that his abilities will be able to help Hrothgar, and if Beowulf did not view himself as a hero, he probably would not have gone to aid someone in need of help. Furthermore, like Beowulf, other members of society recognize his heroic qualities, and perpetuate Beowulf's deification process. People who lay eyes on Beowulf for the first time recognize how special he is: "I've never set eyes on a more noble man, a warrior in armor, than one among your band; he's no mere retainer, so enobled by his weapons. May his looks never belie him and his lordly bearing"(244-248), and have no doubt in Beowulf's capabilities: "They, in their armor, seem altogether worthy of the highest esteem. I have no doubt of their leader's might, he who has brought these brave men to Herot"(365-367).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
