"I couldn't forgive him or like him, but I saw that what he had done was, to him, entirely justified. It was all very careless and confused. They were careless people, Tom and Daisy- they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made..." (181).
This was the most profound quote in the book for me, and it summarized the preceding action well. Throughout the novel, the rich lived without care and concern, harboring secrets while socializing at the summer parties. Tom, Daisy, Gatsby, and even Myrtle Wilson all caused havoc in their own lives but never took responsibility. Others were left to deal with the messes they left behind. This was one of the key points that separated Nick from the others; he cared about others. The wealth these people had could protect them from responsibility, but it couldn't make them happy or truly satisfied. I think this is a theme in the novel, how unsatisfied the rich were as they acted with carelessness. The damaging consequences serve as a warning, showing how the carefree, lavish lifestyle leads to corruption and destruction.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Symbols and the Protagonist: The Great Gatsby
"The locality was always vaguely disquieting, even in the broad glare of the afternoon, and now I turned my head as though I had been warned of something behind. Over the ashheaps the giant eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg kept their vigil, but I perceived, after a moment, that the other eyes were regarding us with peculiar intensity..." (125).
Although I originally thought that Gatsby would be the protagonist with his name being in the title and all, but I came to the conclusion that Nick is the protagonist in the story. He suffers an external conflict with society, and he doesn't ever fit in with their personalities or lifestyles. This conflict is shown throughout his interactions with everyone, but I think it might also be represented in some reoccurring scenery. The eyes of Dr. Eckleburg passed judgement on Nick and his companions many times as they passed by the ash. Those giant eyes were always watching, and I got the impression that they looked on with disapproval and scorn. The ashheaps made the location seem desolate and hopeless, and nothing really positive occurred by the ash. I think that whole area with the eyes and the ash represent how their careless lifestyle was not free of consequence, and someone was always watching their lives. They never had any secrets with those eyes watching. The characters couldn't escape the eyes or the desperation of the ashheaps even when they weren't at the physical spot.
Although I originally thought that Gatsby would be the protagonist with his name being in the title and all, but I came to the conclusion that Nick is the protagonist in the story. He suffers an external conflict with society, and he doesn't ever fit in with their personalities or lifestyles. This conflict is shown throughout his interactions with everyone, but I think it might also be represented in some reoccurring scenery. The eyes of Dr. Eckleburg passed judgement on Nick and his companions many times as they passed by the ash. Those giant eyes were always watching, and I got the impression that they looked on with disapproval and scorn. The ashheaps made the location seem desolate and hopeless, and nothing really positive occurred by the ash. I think that whole area with the eyes and the ash represent how their careless lifestyle was not free of consequence, and someone was always watching their lives. They never had any secrets with those eyes watching. The characters couldn't escape the eyes or the desperation of the ashheaps even when they weren't at the physical spot.
The Not so Great Gatsby
"'And she doesn't understand,' he said. 'She used to be able to understand. We'd sit for hours-'...'Can't repeat the past?' he cried incredulously. 'Why of course you can!' He looked around him wildly, as if the past were lurking here in the shadow of his house, just out of the reach of his hand" (111).
Throughout Nick's entire relationship with Gatsby, I thought that the rich man was strange. Even though he threw these lavish parties with many people in attendance, he was not especially social. In fact, his social encounters were sort of awkward. His actions were abrupt and sharp, like when he looked around wildly. I picture him like a cornered animal, acting erratically and slightly defensive. I don't know if the author wanted him to come off as that weird, but I definitely got a strange vibe from him. I wasn't really sympathetic towards him, even when he was pursuing Daisy. The whole mystery surrounding him confused me, especially because in the beginning Nick said Gatsby turned out alright. Maybe Nick was talking about how Gatsby turned out to be alright as a person. Since he died at the end, I would guess that Nick didn't mean that Gatsby's situation was alright.
Throughout Nick's entire relationship with Gatsby, I thought that the rich man was strange. Even though he threw these lavish parties with many people in attendance, he was not especially social. In fact, his social encounters were sort of awkward. His actions were abrupt and sharp, like when he looked around wildly. I picture him like a cornered animal, acting erratically and slightly defensive. I don't know if the author wanted him to come off as that weird, but I definitely got a strange vibe from him. I wasn't really sympathetic towards him, even when he was pursuing Daisy. The whole mystery surrounding him confused me, especially because in the beginning Nick said Gatsby turned out alright. Maybe Nick was talking about how Gatsby turned out to be alright as a person. Since he died at the end, I would guess that Nick didn't mean that Gatsby's situation was alright.
James Gatz to Jay Gatsby
"So he invented just the sort of Jay Gatsby that a seventeen-year-old boy would be likely to invent, and to this conception he was faithful to the end" (99).
The parties and the grandeur of the characters' lifestyles were used a distractions from their unhappiness, and everything about that group of people was not genuine. Even the mysterious and incredibly wealthy Jay Gatsby was not who he seemed to be; he was instead an illusion conjured up in his teen years. No one really knew who Gatsby was because the man before them was not truly a Gatsby. He morphed himself into the kind of man he thought he needed to be to be successful. He had to distance himself from James Gatz, the poor farmers' boy, in order to live in the rich society of New York. The more he became Gatsby, the more he left his former life behind and turned into the restless, strange rich man Nick knew. I thought having this other life that he rarely spoke about made Gatsby less genuine. The novel talks about how he formed this conception about himself and let that consume him; he hardly ever disclosed his true identity or story. I think this covering of his past and becoming the unsatisfied, corrupt "businessman" led to the events surrounding his demise.
The parties and the grandeur of the characters' lifestyles were used a distractions from their unhappiness, and everything about that group of people was not genuine. Even the mysterious and incredibly wealthy Jay Gatsby was not who he seemed to be; he was instead an illusion conjured up in his teen years. No one really knew who Gatsby was because the man before them was not truly a Gatsby. He morphed himself into the kind of man he thought he needed to be to be successful. He had to distance himself from James Gatz, the poor farmers' boy, in order to live in the rich society of New York. The more he became Gatsby, the more he left his former life behind and turned into the restless, strange rich man Nick knew. I thought having this other life that he rarely spoke about made Gatsby less genuine. The novel talks about how he formed this conception about himself and let that consume him; he hardly ever disclosed his true identity or story. I think this covering of his past and becoming the unsatisfied, corrupt "businessman" led to the events surrounding his demise.
A Thought to End With: The Great Gatsby
"Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgiastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter- tomorrow we will run faster, stretch our arms out farther...And one fine morning- So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past" (182).
The only somewhat optimistic part of this whole book were the final lines of the novel that gave a glimmer of hope for the future. Although it sounds like the current keeps pushing them back, at least they keep trying to achieve a goal. Nick seems to be fighting society, like when he mentions how the people at Gatsby's party are so stupid. He never really fits in with the rest of the high society types, but they seemed more lost in the world than he did. They are the people fighting the current and being pushed back as the future recedes. There came a point in people's lives when they seemed to give up, like when Daisy and Gatsby cannot be with each other. Even their riches and materials could not bring them happiness or closure. This is a theme in the novel, centered around the meaningless society events that Nick attended as he watched the people be pushed back by the current. They were never really happy, just bored and unsatisfied most of the time. The quote seemed really profound to me and appropriate to end the novel.
The only somewhat optimistic part of this whole book were the final lines of the novel that gave a glimmer of hope for the future. Although it sounds like the current keeps pushing them back, at least they keep trying to achieve a goal. Nick seems to be fighting society, like when he mentions how the people at Gatsby's party are so stupid. He never really fits in with the rest of the high society types, but they seemed more lost in the world than he did. They are the people fighting the current and being pushed back as the future recedes. There came a point in people's lives when they seemed to give up, like when Daisy and Gatsby cannot be with each other. Even their riches and materials could not bring them happiness or closure. This is a theme in the novel, centered around the meaningless society events that Nick attended as he watched the people be pushed back by the current. They were never really happy, just bored and unsatisfied most of the time. The quote seemed really profound to me and appropriate to end the novel.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Style/ Theme: The Great Gatsby
"The instant her voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face, as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged" (18).
The author seems to be giving subtle commentary on the lives of the rich characters. Their personalities, motivations, and secrets are slowly revealed as Nick gets deeper into their social circle. Nick's tone overall seems neutral with instances of suspicion and unhappiness as he tries to fit in with this crowd. The author's tone seems more ironic and perhaps satirical as the characters as described as arrogant and insincere. The theme will be embodied by the characters and their choices in life, and the message may not be too positive. The characters obviously lead a life of excess and low morals for the time period, as shown by the descriptions of their actions and character. Much mystery surrounds the characters, as seen with Nick's interactions with Daisy, Jordan, and Gatsby especially. There seems to a tone of disapproval in regards to the characters' actions.
The author seems to be giving subtle commentary on the lives of the rich characters. Their personalities, motivations, and secrets are slowly revealed as Nick gets deeper into their social circle. Nick's tone overall seems neutral with instances of suspicion and unhappiness as he tries to fit in with this crowd. The author's tone seems more ironic and perhaps satirical as the characters as described as arrogant and insincere. The theme will be embodied by the characters and their choices in life, and the message may not be too positive. The characters obviously lead a life of excess and low morals for the time period, as shown by the descriptions of their actions and character. Much mystery surrounds the characters, as seen with Nick's interactions with Daisy, Jordan, and Gatsby especially. There seems to a tone of disapproval in regards to the characters' actions.
Techniques: The Great Gatsby
"In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since. 'Whenever you feel like criticizing any one,' he told me, 'just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had'" (1).
The author did not dive right into the story on Nick and Gatsby; instead the novel began with a brief reflection in which Nick talks about judging others and Gatsby. This piece included a quote and a statement about Gatsby that hinted at future events, but it really created more questions. The beginning serves a greater purpose, but I expect that to come back into play at the end. Nick has been telling the story in the first person point of view, giving the reader insight into the lives of his friends and neighbors. Nick does not appear to be overly wealthy and lives in a smaller house, so he is on the outside of the wealthy circle. His associations allow him to join the rich at parties and dinners, and he shares those events with the reader. He rarely makes a judgmental comment on the happenings he tells and instead gives the facts of the event. He shares his observations with dramatic irony as the reader learns the secrets of his acquaintances.
The author did not dive right into the story on Nick and Gatsby; instead the novel began with a brief reflection in which Nick talks about judging others and Gatsby. This piece included a quote and a statement about Gatsby that hinted at future events, but it really created more questions. The beginning serves a greater purpose, but I expect that to come back into play at the end. Nick has been telling the story in the first person point of view, giving the reader insight into the lives of his friends and neighbors. Nick does not appear to be overly wealthy and lives in a smaller house, so he is on the outside of the wealthy circle. His associations allow him to join the rich at parties and dinners, and he shares those events with the reader. He rarely makes a judgmental comment on the happenings he tells and instead gives the facts of the event. He shares his observations with dramatic irony as the reader learns the secrets of his acquaintances.
Setting: The Great Gatsby
"Outside the wind was loud and there was a faint flow of thunder along the Sound. All the lights were going on in West Egg now; the electric trains, men-carrying, were plunging home through the rain from New York. It was the hour of a profound human change, and excitement was generating on the air" (96).
The location and the time frame are specific and probably contribute greatly to the theme. From what I have read, I think the theme will comment on the behavior of the rich, but I am not entirely sure what the overall message is. However, New York never sleeps and houses many wealthy people. This is an ideal place for the rich to enjoy their lavish lifestyles, even in the early nineteen hundreds. The story takes place during the '20s, a time of lavish living without a thought to expenses. The novel most likely contains truth about the lifestyles during that time period. The book was published in 1925, so the author experienced life during that time. That experience translated into a novel dealing with the actions of the rich.
The location and the time frame are specific and probably contribute greatly to the theme. From what I have read, I think the theme will comment on the behavior of the rich, but I am not entirely sure what the overall message is. However, New York never sleeps and houses many wealthy people. This is an ideal place for the rich to enjoy their lavish lifestyles, even in the early nineteen hundreds. The story takes place during the '20s, a time of lavish living without a thought to expenses. The novel most likely contains truth about the lifestyles during that time period. The book was published in 1925, so the author experienced life during that time. That experience translated into a novel dealing with the actions of the rich.
Characterization: The Great Gatsby
"Two shining arrogant eyes had established dominance over his face and gave him the appearance of always leaning aggressively forward. Not even the effeminate swank of his riding clothes could hide the enormous power of that body... It was a body capable of enormous leverage- a cruel body" (7).
Most of the characterization has been to describe the rich people with whom Nick socializes. Although the author describes their physical appearances, the adjective choice reveals much about their personal character as well. They all seem to have an assumed arrogance and behave as stereotypical rich people. They lounge about and enjoy their riches by hosting parties and dinners. I think the characterization will lend itself to a social commentary since the novel revolves around the wealthy and their unsavory behavior. Nick, Jordan, and Gatsby are so far the only characters with any depth to them. Since they are the main characters, I expect the others to act as flat characters and will not change.
Most of the characterization has been to describe the rich people with whom Nick socializes. Although the author describes their physical appearances, the adjective choice reveals much about their personal character as well. They all seem to have an assumed arrogance and behave as stereotypical rich people. They lounge about and enjoy their riches by hosting parties and dinners. I think the characterization will lend itself to a social commentary since the novel revolves around the wealthy and their unsavory behavior. Nick, Jordan, and Gatsby are so far the only characters with any depth to them. Since they are the main characters, I expect the others to act as flat characters and will not change.
Structure: The Great Gatsby
"No- Gatsby turned out all right at the end; it is what preyed on Gatsby, what foul dust floated in the wake of his dreams that temporarily closed out my interest in the abortive sorrows and short-winded elations of men" (2).
The beginning of the novel included a short reflection by the narrator that gave an insight into Gatsby. Although no more is revealed in the introduction, the structure adds mystery to his character. The structure may turn out to be circular, and the narrator could end with a similar reflection. This looking back by the narrator creates suspense and hints at foreshadowing to intrigue the reader. I think this book maybe one that builds in detail until the end when everything comes together. I am not sure of the themes or overall understanding yet, but those will probably be saved until the resolution. In fact, nothing much as happened as far as explosive action so hopefully these events are building up to greater action. This seems likely since the narrator hinted at Gatsby's troubles and recovery.
The beginning of the novel included a short reflection by the narrator that gave an insight into Gatsby. Although no more is revealed in the introduction, the structure adds mystery to his character. The structure may turn out to be circular, and the narrator could end with a similar reflection. This looking back by the narrator creates suspense and hints at foreshadowing to intrigue the reader. I think this book maybe one that builds in detail until the end when everything comes together. I am not sure of the themes or overall understanding yet, but those will probably be saved until the resolution. In fact, nothing much as happened as far as explosive action so hopefully these events are building up to greater action. This seems likely since the narrator hinted at Gatsby's troubles and recovery.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Themes: Frankenstien
"That then was the period fixed for the fulfillment of my destiny. In that hour I should die, and at once satisfy and extinguish his malice" (123).
This novel was a downer from the very beginning, starting out in the desolate and harsh North Pole where Walton finds a nearly dead Victor. From there, Victor tells his story and manages to make his entire history gloomy. When he mentions positive times in his life, he also talks about destiny and his impending destruction. Contributing to the negative nature are the themes of destiny, duty, death, and depravity. Victor felt that fate led him to create the creature and ultimately try to destroy it. He felt a conflicting duty to his family and the creature that led to the deaths of four friends and family. Death was mentioned frequently in the novel, and depravity was usually connected with death. Emotions connected to these themes also added to the somber tone like guilt, sorrow, and anger.
This novel was a downer from the very beginning, starting out in the desolate and harsh North Pole where Walton finds a nearly dead Victor. From there, Victor tells his story and manages to make his entire history gloomy. When he mentions positive times in his life, he also talks about destiny and his impending destruction. Contributing to the negative nature are the themes of destiny, duty, death, and depravity. Victor felt that fate led him to create the creature and ultimately try to destroy it. He felt a conflicting duty to his family and the creature that led to the deaths of four friends and family. Death was mentioned frequently in the novel, and depravity was usually connected with death. Emotions connected to these themes also added to the somber tone like guilt, sorrow, and anger.
Not a Fan of Victor Either: Frankenstein
"I expressed a wish to visit England; but concealing the true reasons of this request, I clothed my desires under a guise which excited no suspicion, while I urged my desire with an earnestness that easily induced my father to comply" (110).
As much as I did not like the creature, by the end of the novel I liked Victor even less. I cannot understand why he wouldn't warn his family about the creature when he has suspicions about it hurting them. Even if they didn't immediately believe him, at least they would have heard of the creature. Victor is also the moodiest character I've ever encountered. He often ventured into nature and collapsed on the ground in a fit of emotion. He was too busy letting his emotions make him sick that he didn't do much to stop the creature. When he finally decides to take care of the creature, it has already been involved in the deaths of four of his friends and family. I don't know why he thought creating the creature in the first place would be a good idea. Surely he thought of some consequences when creating an eight foot monster from dead body parts?
As much as I did not like the creature, by the end of the novel I liked Victor even less. I cannot understand why he wouldn't warn his family about the creature when he has suspicions about it hurting them. Even if they didn't immediately believe him, at least they would have heard of the creature. Victor is also the moodiest character I've ever encountered. He often ventured into nature and collapsed on the ground in a fit of emotion. He was too busy letting his emotions make him sick that he didn't do much to stop the creature. When he finally decides to take care of the creature, it has already been involved in the deaths of four of his friends and family. I don't know why he thought creating the creature in the first place would be a good idea. Surely he thought of some consequences when creating an eight foot monster from dead body parts?
Who's to Blame? Frankenstein
"Think not, Walton, that in the last moments of my existence I feel that burning hatred, and ardent desire of revenge, I once expressed, but feel myself justified in desiring the death of my adversary. During these last days I have been occupied in examining my past conduct; nor do i find it blameable" (161).
Even though throughout the novel Frankenstein has been overcome by guilt, he admits his failures while dying. Although he doesn't absolve himself of blame, he has reflected upon his actions and found them necessary. The frame story setup allowed the reader to hear from Walton to prompt Victor's story which includes the creature's story. After learning the stories of these characters, the reader can grasp the realities of their lives and the motives for their actions. Victor felt a sense of duty towards the creature, but he finally failed. He felt he owed the creature happiness since he is the creator, but the necessity of protecting humankind came first. He should feel guilty for even creating the creature. As he lay dying, Victor feels he did the right thing by sacrificing the creature's happiness and not creating his female counterpart.
Even though throughout the novel Frankenstein has been overcome by guilt, he admits his failures while dying. Although he doesn't absolve himself of blame, he has reflected upon his actions and found them necessary. The frame story setup allowed the reader to hear from Walton to prompt Victor's story which includes the creature's story. After learning the stories of these characters, the reader can grasp the realities of their lives and the motives for their actions. Victor felt a sense of duty towards the creature, but he finally failed. He felt he owed the creature happiness since he is the creator, but the necessity of protecting humankind came first. He should feel guilty for even creating the creature. As he lay dying, Victor feels he did the right thing by sacrificing the creature's happiness and not creating his female counterpart.
Duty: Frankenstein
"In a fit of enthusiastic madness I created a rational creature, and was bound towards him, to assure, as far as was in my power, his happiness and well-being. This was my duty; but there was another still paramount to that. My duties towards the beings of my own species had greater claims to my attention" (161).
This theme relates not only to Victor's sense of duty, but also to the family that he feels most connected to than anyone else in the world. Even though he never expresses the duty he feels to the creature well, he often mentions the bond that ties him to his family. This conveys a strong message about the importance of family. Throughout the entire novel, the Frankenstein family and the Waltons supported one another. To help convey the strong duty one owes to his or her family, the author used dramatic irony so the reader knew the complications with the deaths and relationships, but many of the characters did not understand everything. Because of this, the reader sees the devastation and struggles that plague the Frankenstein family due to issues like illness and the creature. Ultimately, Victor feels his duty lies first and foremost with his family and the rest of mankind. Even though he struggled to please the creature, he gave up balancing those duties and admitted to his failures.
This theme relates not only to Victor's sense of duty, but also to the family that he feels most connected to than anyone else in the world. Even though he never expresses the duty he feels to the creature well, he often mentions the bond that ties him to his family. This conveys a strong message about the importance of family. Throughout the entire novel, the Frankenstein family and the Waltons supported one another. To help convey the strong duty one owes to his or her family, the author used dramatic irony so the reader knew the complications with the deaths and relationships, but many of the characters did not understand everything. Because of this, the reader sees the devastation and struggles that plague the Frankenstein family due to issues like illness and the creature. Ultimately, Victor feels his duty lies first and foremost with his family and the rest of mankind. Even though he struggled to please the creature, he gave up balancing those duties and admitted to his failures.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
The Creature: Frankenstein
"-oh! not the ten-thousandth portion of the anguish that was mine during the lingering detail of the execution. A frightful selfishness hurried me on, while my heart was poisoned with remorse" (163).
Although I felt my sympathy waiver when the creature told of his miserable life, I never really liked it. We talked about how it acted like a child during the moments after its creation, reaching out for his father. I think he acted like a child throughout the entire book, especially with Victor. He throws a fit when he cannot get what he wants and then makes selfish demands and threats. I understand that he was desperate from loneliness, but he acted like a whiny child. If he could not have love and happiness, then neither could Victor. He has to take all the joy from Victor's life until he eventually dies simply because Victor was morally unable to make another creature. The creature, although intelligent, never considered the consequences to another like him. He had his mind set on a female creature, and he let that and his disappointment consume him. When he finally feels remorse five deaths later, then he decides to kill himself. I just thought his character was weak and annoying.
Although I felt my sympathy waiver when the creature told of his miserable life, I never really liked it. We talked about how it acted like a child during the moments after its creation, reaching out for his father. I think he acted like a child throughout the entire book, especially with Victor. He throws a fit when he cannot get what he wants and then makes selfish demands and threats. I understand that he was desperate from loneliness, but he acted like a whiny child. If he could not have love and happiness, then neither could Victor. He has to take all the joy from Victor's life until he eventually dies simply because Victor was morally unable to make another creature. The creature, although intelligent, never considered the consequences to another like him. He had his mind set on a female creature, and he let that and his disappointment consume him. When he finally feels remorse five deaths later, then he decides to kill himself. I just thought his character was weak and annoying.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Family: Frankenstein
"I was tempted to plunge in to the silent lake, that the waters might close over me and my calamities forever. But I was restrained, when I thought of the heroic and suffering Elizabeth, whom I tenderly loved, and whose existence was bound up in mine" (62).
The themes of duty and family are closely connected in the stories because Victor and his family hold such a strong sense of duty towards each other. Even in his most depressed states, Victor thinks about his family. Each member looks out for one another, and the family even takes others in when necessary. Even though Victor upholds his duty to his family, he does not have a strong sense of duty when it comes to the creature. If anything, Victor is driven by guilt to take care of his creation. Maybe after hearing the creature's plea and story, Victor's feelings will change. If, however, the creature did murder William, then Victor will not have any positive feelings for the creature. That would threaten the thing Victor holds most dear, and perhaps this could lead to his downfall.
The themes of duty and family are closely connected in the stories because Victor and his family hold such a strong sense of duty towards each other. Even in his most depressed states, Victor thinks about his family. Each member looks out for one another, and the family even takes others in when necessary. Even though Victor upholds his duty to his family, he does not have a strong sense of duty when it comes to the creature. If anything, Victor is driven by guilt to take care of his creation. Maybe after hearing the creature's plea and story, Victor's feelings will change. If, however, the creature did murder William, then Victor will not have any positive feelings for the creature. That would threaten the thing Victor holds most dear, and perhaps this could lead to his downfall.
Destiny: Frankenstein
"It was a strong effort of the spirit of good; but it was ineffectual. Destiny was too potent, and her immutable laws had decreed my utter and terrible destruction" (23).
Another prevalent theme in the story is the role of destiny in Frankenstein's life. As he tells Walton of the events leading up to the creation, he often mentions how certain key events were predetermined and unavoidable. Destiny had chosen a path for him, and Victor had no choice but to follow. The personification of destiny shows the strength of its force and its presence in Victor's life. His constant mentioning of destiny implies that the inevitable creation serves a greater purpose. If destiny is so intent on having this creation, then there must be a reason. Also, the above quote gives a foreshadowing of Victor's possible destruction. His demise will most likely be a result of the creation, as his life seems to revolve around that pivotal moment.
Another prevalent theme in the story is the role of destiny in Frankenstein's life. As he tells Walton of the events leading up to the creation, he often mentions how certain key events were predetermined and unavoidable. Destiny had chosen a path for him, and Victor had no choice but to follow. The personification of destiny shows the strength of its force and its presence in Victor's life. His constant mentioning of destiny implies that the inevitable creation serves a greater purpose. If destiny is so intent on having this creation, then there must be a reason. Also, the above quote gives a foreshadowing of Victor's possible destruction. His demise will most likely be a result of the creation, as his life seems to revolve around that pivotal moment.
Creation: Frankenstein
"Remember, that I am thy creature; I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel, whom thou drivest from joy no misdeed" (69).
Many themes occur frequently throughout the novel to illustrate a variety of messages. One theme, creation, is alluded to by the creature when speaking to Frankenstein. Instead of the creation being an accomplishment, this creation is viewed as a grievous error, a deadly mistake. Victor spent years pursuing a high level of knowledge, never limiting his curiosity. Eventually his efforts led to the creature, but Victor was horrified with his work. The creature says he should be Adam, and that would make Victor the God. This allusion shows that when Victor tried to play God, he failed miserably in his eyes and the creature's. This could also be seen as a commentary on the necessity to limit scientific pursuits because horrible consequences can arise from such experiments without limits.
Many themes occur frequently throughout the novel to illustrate a variety of messages. One theme, creation, is alluded to by the creature when speaking to Frankenstein. Instead of the creation being an accomplishment, this creation is viewed as a grievous error, a deadly mistake. Victor spent years pursuing a high level of knowledge, never limiting his curiosity. Eventually his efforts led to the creature, but Victor was horrified with his work. The creature says he should be Adam, and that would make Victor the God. This allusion shows that when Victor tried to play God, he failed miserably in his eyes and the creature's. This could also be seen as a commentary on the necessity to limit scientific pursuits because horrible consequences can arise from such experiments without limits.
Solitude: Frankenstein
"I shunned the face of man...solitude was my only consolation- deep, dark, deathlike solitude" (61).
The theme of solitude ties three of the characters together: Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein, and the creature. Due to their solitude, whether self imposed or an unavoidable occurrence, these characters often engage in unhealthy and dangerous behavior. Walton takes a dangerous journey that takes him much time and effort to accomplish, all the while longing for a friend. Frankenstein experiences many periods of solitude because he cannot relate to many people, he carries a terrible secret, and he spirals into fits of emotion that make him push people away. The creature wants to be among people that care for him, but he is feared by many and is miserable in his solitude. The theme and its connection to the main characters presents a negative view on solitude. It shows how these characters lose control, feeling heavy emotions like misery and loneliness. The creature even threatens harm upon Victor's "remaining friends" if he does not improve the creature's solitary existence. The entire novel has a very somber tone, and the negativity of this theme reenforces that mood.
The theme of solitude ties three of the characters together: Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein, and the creature. Due to their solitude, whether self imposed or an unavoidable occurrence, these characters often engage in unhealthy and dangerous behavior. Walton takes a dangerous journey that takes him much time and effort to accomplish, all the while longing for a friend. Frankenstein experiences many periods of solitude because he cannot relate to many people, he carries a terrible secret, and he spirals into fits of emotion that make him push people away. The creature wants to be among people that care for him, but he is feared by many and is miserable in his solitude. The theme and its connection to the main characters presents a negative view on solitude. It shows how these characters lose control, feeling heavy emotions like misery and loneliness. The creature even threatens harm upon Victor's "remaining friends" if he does not improve the creature's solitary existence. The entire novel has a very somber tone, and the negativity of this theme reenforces that mood.
Not What I Was Expecting from Frankenstein
"I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body...now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart" (35).
Before we began reading the book, we discussed in class all of the ideas we had about Frankenstein. So far, this book has not at all been what I expected. The creation scene had been dramatized from what the book portrayed, making it much more appropriate for the movies. Instead of a mad scientist cackling over his creation, Frankenstein is actually terrified of his creation and thinks it to be evil. The creature itself is quite intelligent and is able to speak eloquently. Since the book has differed so much from my previous notions, I am curious to see what role the creature will play. I still doubt that the creature murdered William, but given his past experiences, that is possible. I am most interested to see how Victor will deal with this creature that he is convinced is evil and a murderer.
Before we began reading the book, we discussed in class all of the ideas we had about Frankenstein. So far, this book has not at all been what I expected. The creation scene had been dramatized from what the book portrayed, making it much more appropriate for the movies. Instead of a mad scientist cackling over his creation, Frankenstein is actually terrified of his creation and thinks it to be evil. The creature itself is quite intelligent and is able to speak eloquently. Since the book has differed so much from my previous notions, I am curious to see what role the creature will play. I still doubt that the creature murdered William, but given his past experiences, that is possible. I am most interested to see how Victor will deal with this creature that he is convinced is evil and a murderer.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Similarities between Death of a Salesman and The Glass Menagerie
Ben: "The jungle is dark but full of diamonds, Willy... One must go and fetch a diamond out...It's dark there, but full of diamonds" (1627).
Both plays, Death of a Salesman and The Glass Menagerie, contained multiple nonrealistic elements. In the beginning stage directions of each, the description mentions dreams and how the stage is meant to convey this dreamlike state. In The Glass Menagerie, this is to illustrate the idea of memories, and in Death of a Salesman, the dreamlike stage is for Willy's imaginings. The similarity that seemed the most significant was the influence of two characters that were absent from the main characters lives. Tom's father was a driving force in Tom's decision to leave even though the father had left many years ago. For Willy, his dead brother Ben would have conversations with him in his mind that helped convince him to commit suicide. Ben tells him of the diamonds right before Willy gets in his car for the last time. Both plays incorporate dreams, memories, and imaginings to convey a truth through nonrealism.
Both plays, Death of a Salesman and The Glass Menagerie, contained multiple nonrealistic elements. In the beginning stage directions of each, the description mentions dreams and how the stage is meant to convey this dreamlike state. In The Glass Menagerie, this is to illustrate the idea of memories, and in Death of a Salesman, the dreamlike stage is for Willy's imaginings. The similarity that seemed the most significant was the influence of two characters that were absent from the main characters lives. Tom's father was a driving force in Tom's decision to leave even though the father had left many years ago. For Willy, his dead brother Ben would have conversations with him in his mind that helped convince him to commit suicide. Ben tells him of the diamonds right before Willy gets in his car for the last time. Both plays incorporate dreams, memories, and imaginings to convey a truth through nonrealism.
Antagonists: Death of a Salesman
Biff: "Screw the business world!...I don't care what they think! They've laughed at Dad for years, and you know why?" (1579).
Even though Willy's pride caused his downfall, society was also involved. The expectations of society, specifically the business world, and the American dream weighed heavily on the family, especially Biff and Willy. Regardless of how hard Willy works or how much he wants to succeed, he cannot seem to get ahead in his career. The world is cutthroat, moving on when Biff and Willy could not keep up. Both Willy and Biff's lack of success causes them much strain, although they deal with the stress in different ways. The play can be considered a social commentary, reflecting on how people can work themselves to death, but sometimes that is not enough. The American dream is a tough ideal to realize, and people spend their whole lives just out of reach. The whole play was really depressing and full of unfulfilled dreams, leaving the characters struggling to cope. This tore the family apart and contributed to Willy's death.
Even though Willy's pride caused his downfall, society was also involved. The expectations of society, specifically the business world, and the American dream weighed heavily on the family, especially Biff and Willy. Regardless of how hard Willy works or how much he wants to succeed, he cannot seem to get ahead in his career. The world is cutthroat, moving on when Biff and Willy could not keep up. Both Willy and Biff's lack of success causes them much strain, although they deal with the stress in different ways. The play can be considered a social commentary, reflecting on how people can work themselves to death, but sometimes that is not enough. The American dream is a tough ideal to realize, and people spend their whole lives just out of reach. The whole play was really depressing and full of unfulfilled dreams, leaving the characters struggling to cope. This tore the family apart and contributed to Willy's death.
Tragic Flaw: Death of a Salesman
"I've always tried to think otherwise, I guess. I always felt that if a man was impressive, and well liked, thta nothing-" (1602).
Even though I struggle with Willy being a tragic hero, he certainly has a tragic flaw that leads to his downfall. I just can't see Willy as a hero, but maybe that is because he is not a typical heroic character. His character is weak and he seems crazy, but his downfall comes from his pride. Willy constantly pursues popularity and the American dream, not bothering to face the reality of his situation. His relentless quest for approval takes a toll on him, and he begins to imagine people and conversations. Willy refuses to take a job from Charley, and he asks Charley not to tell Linda about him borrowing money. His pride prevents him from taking the appropriate actions to care for his family. Although Willy's denial and imaginings hurt his family, his intentions are always good as he tries to provide for them. Even with his last desperate act of suicide, Willy had his family in mind.
Even though I struggle with Willy being a tragic hero, he certainly has a tragic flaw that leads to his downfall. I just can't see Willy as a hero, but maybe that is because he is not a typical heroic character. His character is weak and he seems crazy, but his downfall comes from his pride. Willy constantly pursues popularity and the American dream, not bothering to face the reality of his situation. His relentless quest for approval takes a toll on him, and he begins to imagine people and conversations. Willy refuses to take a job from Charley, and he asks Charley not to tell Linda about him borrowing money. His pride prevents him from taking the appropriate actions to care for his family. Although Willy's denial and imaginings hurt his family, his intentions are always good as he tries to provide for them. Even with his last desperate act of suicide, Willy had his family in mind.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Perfecting the Illusion: The Glass Menagerie
Tom: "I am the narrator of the play, and also a character in it. The other characters are my mother, Amanda, and my sister, Laura, and a gentleman caller who appears in the final scenes. He is the most realistic character in the play, being an emissary from a world of reality that we were somehow set apart from. But since I have a poet's weakness for symbols, I am using this character also as a symbol; he is the long delayed but always expected something that we live for" (1237).
Everything about this play, from the character roles to the setting and scenery, has been carefully crafted in order to successfully convey the writer's view on memories and illusions. Tom had to be the narrator of the play because he is the strongest of the three characters. Both Amanda and Laura make no effort to escape their situation; they only obsess over certain aspects of their lives. Laura finds comfort in her glass animals, and Amanda focuses on her children, especially on finding Laura a husband. Laura is crippled physically and socially, unable to interact with other people. Tom is the only one longing to truly escape, and he dreams of adventure and traveling. He wants to leave in order to find the adventure missing from his life, and finally he does after his mom yells at him about living in an illusion. Laura, Tom, and Amanda all avoid the truth, but Jim is direct when he tells Laura about his feelings and Betty. This is why he is the most realistic character, and he causes Tom to leave and Laura to have some sort of a breakthrough, holding a conversation and letting go of her prized glass unicorn.
Everything about this play, from the character roles to the setting and scenery, has been carefully crafted in order to successfully convey the writer's view on memories and illusions. Tom had to be the narrator of the play because he is the strongest of the three characters. Both Amanda and Laura make no effort to escape their situation; they only obsess over certain aspects of their lives. Laura finds comfort in her glass animals, and Amanda focuses on her children, especially on finding Laura a husband. Laura is crippled physically and socially, unable to interact with other people. Tom is the only one longing to truly escape, and he dreams of adventure and traveling. He wants to leave in order to find the adventure missing from his life, and finally he does after his mom yells at him about living in an illusion. Laura, Tom, and Amanda all avoid the truth, but Jim is direct when he tells Laura about his feelings and Betty. This is why he is the most realistic character, and he causes Tom to leave and Laura to have some sort of a breakthrough, holding a conversation and letting go of her prized glass unicorn.
Characters Trapped by Illusion: The Glass Menagerie
Amanda: "You don't know things anywhere! You live in a dream; you manufacture illusions!" (1288).
Even though the entire play is mirrored after an illusion, the characters are also caught up in their own illusions. Since they are so focused on their own dreams and memories, their relationships suffer. For Amanda, her illusions revolve around the past, specifically her glory days in the South. She often reminisces about her many gentlemen callers that were enthralled with her beauty and charm. She also recalls memories of her husband as well, never blaming herself for him leaving. Amanda has trouble dealing with her children and their failures, so she retreats to her illusions and memories of the past in order to look more favorably upon her current life. Laura is also consumed by illusions, and Tom mentions how she lives in another world. She is distracted, so painfully shy that she withdraws from reality. She also looks back on her high school days with Jim, one of her few social interactions. Tom also dreams of adventure, escaping realities through movies and his plans for the future.
Even though the entire play is mirrored after an illusion, the characters are also caught up in their own illusions. Since they are so focused on their own dreams and memories, their relationships suffer. For Amanda, her illusions revolve around the past, specifically her glory days in the South. She often reminisces about her many gentlemen callers that were enthralled with her beauty and charm. She also recalls memories of her husband as well, never blaming herself for him leaving. Amanda has trouble dealing with her children and their failures, so she retreats to her illusions and memories of the past in order to look more favorably upon her current life. Laura is also consumed by illusions, and Tom mentions how she lives in another world. She is distracted, so painfully shy that she withdraws from reality. She also looks back on her high school days with Jim, one of her few social interactions. Tom also dreams of adventure, escaping realities through movies and his plans for the future.
Memory is an Illusion: The Glass Menagerie
Tom: "I give you truth in the pleasant disguise of illusion...The play is a memory. Being a memory play, it is dimly lighted, it is sentimental, it is not realistic" (1236).
The entire play consists of Tom, the narrator, replaying a memory focusing on his interactions with his mother and his sister. Since the story is told by Tom, a certain amount of bias may exist against the other characters. This is Tom's memory, so he could recreate the events to reflect his views on the scenes. Because Tom does not get along with his mother or interacts well with his sister, he might portray them differently in his memory. Laura and Amanda are both portrayed as weaker characters, governed by illusions. All of the scenes involve a dreamlike setting, and the scene directions are very specific.The curtains separating the rooms, the soft lighting, and the music all contributed to the memory being portrayed as an illusion. Another effect adding to the nonrealistic qualities is Tom's narration and his cues for lighting and music. All of this, the stage, the lighting, the narration, is to solidify Tom's statement that this memory gives truth disguised as illusion.
The entire play consists of Tom, the narrator, replaying a memory focusing on his interactions with his mother and his sister. Since the story is told by Tom, a certain amount of bias may exist against the other characters. This is Tom's memory, so he could recreate the events to reflect his views on the scenes. Because Tom does not get along with his mother or interacts well with his sister, he might portray them differently in his memory. Laura and Amanda are both portrayed as weaker characters, governed by illusions. All of the scenes involve a dreamlike setting, and the scene directions are very specific.The curtains separating the rooms, the soft lighting, and the music all contributed to the memory being portrayed as an illusion. Another effect adding to the nonrealistic qualities is Tom's narration and his cues for lighting and music. All of this, the stage, the lighting, the narration, is to solidify Tom's statement that this memory gives truth disguised as illusion.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
As You Like It: Act III
Phebe: "I'll write it straight; the matter's in my head and in my heart: I will be bitter with him and passing short. Go with me, Sylvius." (III.v.54)
Phebe falling in love with Rosalind who is disguised as a man adds to the comedic aspect of the play. While Othello was constantly serious with a somber tone, As You Like It is much more lighthearted. The conflicts are also lighter without intense emotions and manipulation. Not all of the characters are tangled in life threatening struggles with each other, and their problems have a humorous aspect. Phebe falling in love with who she thinks is a man is comical because the audience knows her love is actually a woman. Dramatic irony such as this adds to the humor in the play. Since the characters are mostly clueless, their actions are much more comical to the knowing audience. The dramatic irony in this play does not have a dark tone, but rather the tone is brighter and funnier, adding to the overall comedic effect.
Phebe falling in love with Rosalind who is disguised as a man adds to the comedic aspect of the play. While Othello was constantly serious with a somber tone, As You Like It is much more lighthearted. The conflicts are also lighter without intense emotions and manipulation. Not all of the characters are tangled in life threatening struggles with each other, and their problems have a humorous aspect. Phebe falling in love with who she thinks is a man is comical because the audience knows her love is actually a woman. Dramatic irony such as this adds to the humor in the play. Since the characters are mostly clueless, their actions are much more comical to the knowing audience. The dramatic irony in this play does not have a dark tone, but rather the tone is brighter and funnier, adding to the overall comedic effect.
As You Like It: Act II
Duke Senior: "Come, shall we go and kill us venison? And yet it irks me the poor dappled fools, being native burghers of this desert city, should in their own confines with forked heads have their round haunches gored." (II.i.18)
Another set of foil characters have led to conflict and drama just like Orlando and Oliver. The current duke, Duke Frederick, and the banished duke, Duke Senior, have contrasting personalities. Shakespeare reveals these foil characters through indirect characterization, revealing their personalities by their actions. Duke Frederick is a callous, harsh man that banished his own brother after usurping his domain. Not only did he send his brother into exile with his loyal followers, but he then banished his daughter's beloved cousin for shallow reasons. Even though his brother is cruel, Duke Senior is a kinder, more understanding man. He even regrets the killing of a deer and welcomes strangers like Orlando into his camp. The two brothers are complete opposites, but their conflict leads to Orlando and Rosalind both wandering in the forest.
Another set of foil characters have led to conflict and drama just like Orlando and Oliver. The current duke, Duke Frederick, and the banished duke, Duke Senior, have contrasting personalities. Shakespeare reveals these foil characters through indirect characterization, revealing their personalities by their actions. Duke Frederick is a callous, harsh man that banished his own brother after usurping his domain. Not only did he send his brother into exile with his loyal followers, but he then banished his daughter's beloved cousin for shallow reasons. Even though his brother is cruel, Duke Senior is a kinder, more understanding man. He even regrets the killing of a deer and welcomes strangers like Orlando into his camp. The two brothers are complete opposites, but their conflict leads to Orlando and Rosalind both wandering in the forest.
As You Like It: Act I
Oliver: "Now will I stir this gamester: I hope I shall see an end of him; for my soul, yet I know not why, hates nothing more than he..But it shall not be so long; this wrestler shall clear all : nothing remains but that I kindle the boy thither; which now I'll go about." (I.i.5)
Most of the characters are introduced in the beginning of the play, allowing the audience to become familiar with them and their personalities. The protagonist is Orlando, and the antagonist seems to be Oliver. Although Duke Frederick contributes to the drama and misfortune of some characters, Oliver is actively seeking the death of his brother. Oliver and Orlando are also foil characters which contributes to the sibling rivalry idea. Orlando is more like his father Sir Rowland, and he is described as gentile, kind, educated, and well liked. In contrast, Oliver represents a much harsher character as he hopes for the death of his hated brother. Orlando resents Oliver's treatment of him, saying Oliver does not treat him like a brother and is undermining his education and character. Their contrasting personalities will probably lead to more drama and conflict as they have already been established as foil characters. The antagonist, Oliver, sets out to undermine the protagonist, Orlando, and will probably get in the way of Orlando's love for Rosalind.
Most of the characters are introduced in the beginning of the play, allowing the audience to become familiar with them and their personalities. The protagonist is Orlando, and the antagonist seems to be Oliver. Although Duke Frederick contributes to the drama and misfortune of some characters, Oliver is actively seeking the death of his brother. Oliver and Orlando are also foil characters which contributes to the sibling rivalry idea. Orlando is more like his father Sir Rowland, and he is described as gentile, kind, educated, and well liked. In contrast, Oliver represents a much harsher character as he hopes for the death of his hated brother. Orlando resents Oliver's treatment of him, saying Oliver does not treat him like a brother and is undermining his education and character. Their contrasting personalities will probably lead to more drama and conflict as they have already been established as foil characters. The antagonist, Oliver, sets out to undermine the protagonist, Orlando, and will probably get in the way of Orlando's love for Rosalind.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Timeless Theme: Love Turns into Destruction
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| Desdemona and Othello |
The appeal of Shakespeare’s work has endured for centuries because of the timeless themes interwoven in the drama and comedies. In Shakespeare’s drama Othello, ideas connected to man’s undesirable and primal qualities have been told many times before and many times after because the themes are always relevant. A particular message that will always be applicable regardless of the time period is the destructive nature of jealousy and anger, especially when love is involved. This was the driving theme in Othello, acting as the catalyst to many of the conflicts and drama. In addition to causing destruction in Othello, jealousy and anger caused by love have been present in other works, such as the film Troy and the story of Francesca and Paolo in Dante’s Inferno. In these works and many others, uncontrolled and potent emotions driven by love inevitably lead to devastation of the lovers and those around them, and this has been true throughout time.
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| Paris and Helen |
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| Paolo and Francesca |
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0332452/
Two other works, Troy and Inferno, exhibit similar mayhem caused by a jealous husband whose love turned to devastating anger. In the movie Troy, Menelaus, husband of the beautiful Helen, has his brother Agamemnon start a war with the Trojans over her affair with the Trojan prince Paris. After Helen runs away with Paris, both Agamemnon and Menelaus start a crusade to destroy Troy and capture Helen. Menelaus vows to get Helen back so he can kill her himself, burning Troy to the ground in the process (Troy). Many soldiers and innocent people died during a war that started because of a husband’s jealousy over an affair. Another story contains the same theme: the story of Francesca and Paolo as told in Dante’s Inferno. Francesca, wife of Giovanni, had an affair with his brother Paolo, and when Giovanni discovered the two, he killed them both. They say, “Love led us straight into sudden death together” (Alighieri, 845). The anger and jealousy of Giovanni led to the sudden and violent death of two young lovers, leaving tragedy in their wake.
http://danteworlds.laits.utexas.edu/circle2.html
Part of the appeal of Shakespeare's work comes from the timeless themes, allowing the messages from the plays to be applied to any time. The theme from Othello about the destructive combination of love, jealousy, and anger can be seen often in other works, such as Troy and Inferno. Not only does this theme appear in works of literature and theater, but this idea has played out many times in real life. This is due to the nature of man, seeking revenge to right a wrong, especially when it comes to love. Because of this, the theme about love turning into destruction will be present for many years to come, making it truly timeless.
Works Cited
Alighieri, Dante. Inferno. The Norton Anthology of World Masterpieces. Ed. Maynard Mack. W.W. Norton &, 1980. .823-959. Print.
Perrine, Laurence. “Othello.” Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound and Sense. Fort Worth. Harcourt College. 2002. 1361-462. Print
Troy. Dir. Wolfgang Peterson. Screenplay by David Benioff. Perf. Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, and Orlando Bloom. Warner Bros. Pictures, 2004. Film.
Monday, February 6, 2012
"Set Fire to the Rain"- Emilia and Iago
I chose to song "Set Fire to the Rain" by Adele to represent Emilia standing up to her husband Iago after discovering his manipulations. The lyrics illustrate Emilia's journey from a quiet, meek woman to a strong, loyal friend. A line in the song says "But there's a side to you that I never knew," and this describes how no one knew the evil, manipulative side of Iago. Eventually his wife discovers his web of lies and exposes him to the rest of the characters who previously thought he was honest. Two lines that aptly portray Iago's deception are "All the things you'd say they were never true" and "And the games you play you would always win." Iago lied to every character, making them pawns in his game of revenge. Emilia's moment of strength comes when she confronts Iago about his plans and deception, and the theme about the strength of love is represented as she stands up for her friend in defiance to Iago. In the song, Adele sings, "I set fire to the rain, And I threw us into the flames." This line represent how Emilia "sets fire to the rain" by exposing the truth about Iago and turning against him to defend her best friend. Both Emilia and Iago were thrown into the flames when Iago was finally caught and would be punished for his crimes while Emilia died at the hands of her husband because of her act of bravery.
http://www.lyrics.com/set-fire-to-the-rain-lyrics-adele.html
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| Iago and Emilia |
http://www.lyrics.com/set-fire-to-the-rain-lyrics-adele.html
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| Emilia and Desdemona |
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| Othello and Iago |
Monday, January 30, 2012
Othello: Overall Reaction
Othello: "She's like a liar gone to burning Hell./ 'Twas I that killed her."
Emilia: "Oh, the more angel she,/ And you the blacker devil!" V.ii.128-130
This play certainly lives up to the title of drama seeing as all the characters made their encounters as dramatic as possible. I know that they need to be dramatic for effect, but their behavior seemed over the top. To me, many of the characters were weak and easily manipulated. Roderigo had some obsession with Desdemona and fell apart when she did not return his love. Since she did not pay much attention to him anyway, Roderigo should have taken the hint and calmed down. Instead he paid Iago to carry out this complex plan to get him Desdemona and went along with whatever Iago suggested. Othello was just as easily controlled, believing "honest" Iago and his flimsy proof of his wife's affair. I do not understand how everyone thought Othello was so even tempered and logical, but then he quickly transformed into a crazy jealous husband. I thought he would be able to see through or at least question Iago, but Othello blindly believed him. Desdemona and Cassio unknowingly contributed to their own downfall. The only character I was drawn to was Emilia; I liked her progression from a quiet, obedient wife to a fiercely loyal friend.
Emilia: "Oh, the more angel she,/ And you the blacker devil!" V.ii.128-130
This play certainly lives up to the title of drama seeing as all the characters made their encounters as dramatic as possible. I know that they need to be dramatic for effect, but their behavior seemed over the top. To me, many of the characters were weak and easily manipulated. Roderigo had some obsession with Desdemona and fell apart when she did not return his love. Since she did not pay much attention to him anyway, Roderigo should have taken the hint and calmed down. Instead he paid Iago to carry out this complex plan to get him Desdemona and went along with whatever Iago suggested. Othello was just as easily controlled, believing "honest" Iago and his flimsy proof of his wife's affair. I do not understand how everyone thought Othello was so even tempered and logical, but then he quickly transformed into a crazy jealous husband. I thought he would be able to see through or at least question Iago, but Othello blindly believed him. Desdemona and Cassio unknowingly contributed to their own downfall. The only character I was drawn to was Emilia; I liked her progression from a quiet, obedient wife to a fiercely loyal friend.
Othello Act V
Othello: "No way but this,/ Killing myself, to die upon a kiss." (Falls on the bed, and dies)
Cassio: "This did I fear, but thought he had no weapon,/ For he was great of heart." V.ii.357-359
This play is without question a tragedy. Like many Shakespeare tragedies, multiple characters die at the end of Othello. Desdemona, Roderigo, Emilia, and Othello all meet their demise at the hands of violence; the loss was all caused by a web of lies spun by Iago over his jealousy and quest for power. The full effect of the themes about uncontrolled passions leading to destruction is realized at the conclusion when these characters fall victim to those destructive emotions. Knowing that this play is a tragedy can help the audience understand the drama involved. All of Iago's planning and the conflict between the characters would heighten the suspense and drama if the audience knew that the play would not end well, and the experience would be enhanced. Details of betrayal and loss are spread throughout the play and lead up to the conclusion, so knowing the play's classification allows the audience to catch those telling details. The suspense is built up from the moment the audience learns of Iago's plans and continues to build as the audience learns more from the resulting drama. Only the audience is completely aware of the situation at the conclusion of the play. The remaining characters do not fully know of Iago's tricks and motivations, but the audience knew the entirety because of Iago's confessions to the audience.
Cassio: "This did I fear, but thought he had no weapon,/ For he was great of heart." V.ii.357-359
This play is without question a tragedy. Like many Shakespeare tragedies, multiple characters die at the end of Othello. Desdemona, Roderigo, Emilia, and Othello all meet their demise at the hands of violence; the loss was all caused by a web of lies spun by Iago over his jealousy and quest for power. The full effect of the themes about uncontrolled passions leading to destruction is realized at the conclusion when these characters fall victim to those destructive emotions. Knowing that this play is a tragedy can help the audience understand the drama involved. All of Iago's planning and the conflict between the characters would heighten the suspense and drama if the audience knew that the play would not end well, and the experience would be enhanced. Details of betrayal and loss are spread throughout the play and lead up to the conclusion, so knowing the play's classification allows the audience to catch those telling details. The suspense is built up from the moment the audience learns of Iago's plans and continues to build as the audience learns more from the resulting drama. Only the audience is completely aware of the situation at the conclusion of the play. The remaining characters do not fully know of Iago's tricks and motivations, but the audience knew the entirety because of Iago's confessions to the audience.
Othello Act IV
Lodovico: "Is this the noble Moor whom our full Senate/ Call all-in-all sufficient? This the nature/ Whom passion could not shake?..."
Iago: "He is much changed." IV.i.251-253
The themes of Othello were introduced early in the play and continued to be developed upon as the action and characters progressed. Now that Iago's plan grows with more and more people falling deeper into his manipulations, those themes become more prevalent. Othello becomes more convinced about Cassio and Desdemona's treachery and now set out to punish them. The themes of love, anger, and jealousy manifest in Othello's struggles with himself. He is furious about his wife's betrayal, but he struggles to overcome his love for her. His jealousy is caused by his love cheating on him with someone he used to trust, even though that is a lie. His jealousy morphed into hatred for the both of them, causing him to plot drastic punishments. The depth of these emotions lead to dramatic consequences, thus strengthening the themes. The message is that uncontrolled emotions, like anger, jealousy, and love, can lead to destruction and harm. Even though the themes are prevalent, the play is not too didactic because it does not solely rely on the themes to tell the story; the characters and action also advance the drama.
Iago: "He is much changed." IV.i.251-253
The themes of Othello were introduced early in the play and continued to be developed upon as the action and characters progressed. Now that Iago's plan grows with more and more people falling deeper into his manipulations, those themes become more prevalent. Othello becomes more convinced about Cassio and Desdemona's treachery and now set out to punish them. The themes of love, anger, and jealousy manifest in Othello's struggles with himself. He is furious about his wife's betrayal, but he struggles to overcome his love for her. His jealousy is caused by his love cheating on him with someone he used to trust, even though that is a lie. His jealousy morphed into hatred for the both of them, causing him to plot drastic punishments. The depth of these emotions lead to dramatic consequences, thus strengthening the themes. The message is that uncontrolled emotions, like anger, jealousy, and love, can lead to destruction and harm. Even though the themes are prevalent, the play is not too didactic because it does not solely rely on the themes to tell the story; the characters and action also advance the drama.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Othello Act III
Othello: "Excellent wretch! Perdition catch my soul/ But I do love thee! And when I love thee not,/ Chaos is come again." III.iii.91-93
As the play progresses, the themes become more evident as Iago's plans are put into action. He has carefully manipulated the players, pushing them to react with hatred and jealousy towards one another. Iago's motivation is jealousy towards Cassio for the position of lieutenant. Iago has seniority over Cassio, but Cassio was chosen based on popularity. Anger and hatred fuel Iago's plans, causing him to hurt Cassio and Othello. He includes Roderigo in his plans to provoke the other characters, using Roderigo's love for Desdemona as leverage. Roderigo is jealous of Othello for marrying Desdemona, and his love for her makes him act out and follow Iago. Othello seems to grow increasingly jealous and angry as he begins to suspect that Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair. These strong emotions often lead to intense drama, and that is the case as these characters prepare to clash with one another. Also, being motivated by passions such as love, anger, and jealousy can have disastrous consequences, and that is what Iago is hoping for.
As the play progresses, the themes become more evident as Iago's plans are put into action. He has carefully manipulated the players, pushing them to react with hatred and jealousy towards one another. Iago's motivation is jealousy towards Cassio for the position of lieutenant. Iago has seniority over Cassio, but Cassio was chosen based on popularity. Anger and hatred fuel Iago's plans, causing him to hurt Cassio and Othello. He includes Roderigo in his plans to provoke the other characters, using Roderigo's love for Desdemona as leverage. Roderigo is jealous of Othello for marrying Desdemona, and his love for her makes him act out and follow Iago. Othello seems to grow increasingly jealous and angry as he begins to suspect that Cassio and Desdemona are having an affair. These strong emotions often lead to intense drama, and that is the case as these characters prepare to clash with one another. Also, being motivated by passions such as love, anger, and jealousy can have disastrous consequences, and that is what Iago is hoping for.
Othello Act II
Cassio: "Welcome, mistress. Let it not gall your patience, good Iago/ That I extend my manners. 'Tis my breeding/ That gives me this bold show of courtesy." II.i.96-99
During the second act, more characters are introduced, and foil characters are made known. Iago's main foil character is Cassio, his rival and the current lieutenant. While Iago is rude to women, conniving, and manipulative, Cassio is respectful, gallant, and a gentleman. These characters with opposite personalities are pitted against one another as Iago tries to obtain Cassio's position through manipulation and deceit. Roderigo is also a foil character to Cassio since Roderigo is a weak man, relying on Iago to solve his problems. With Iago offering him guidance, Roderigo commits acts of deceit as well to further Iago's plans. Iago and Roderigo, the manipulative characters, contrast with Othello and Cassio, the respected and valiant characters. Even though Roderigo works against the other characters, Iago is also controlling him. Through character interaction and dialogue, themes of jealousy, love, and power are introduced. These act as strong motivations to characters like Iago, Roderigo, Othello, and Cassio.
During the second act, more characters are introduced, and foil characters are made known. Iago's main foil character is Cassio, his rival and the current lieutenant. While Iago is rude to women, conniving, and manipulative, Cassio is respectful, gallant, and a gentleman. These characters with opposite personalities are pitted against one another as Iago tries to obtain Cassio's position through manipulation and deceit. Roderigo is also a foil character to Cassio since Roderigo is a weak man, relying on Iago to solve his problems. With Iago offering him guidance, Roderigo commits acts of deceit as well to further Iago's plans. Iago and Roderigo, the manipulative characters, contrast with Othello and Cassio, the respected and valiant characters. Even though Roderigo works against the other characters, Iago is also controlling him. Through character interaction and dialogue, themes of jealousy, love, and power are introduced. These act as strong motivations to characters like Iago, Roderigo, Othello, and Cassio.
Othello Act I
Iago: "In personal suit to make me his Lieutenant,/...'I have already chose my officer.'/...One Michael Cassio, a Florentine,..." (I.i.9,I.i.17,I.i.20)
In the first act, the reader meets the characters while they engage in a situation revolving around jealousy and love. The personalities and motivations of characters are also introduced, and the protagonist and antagonist can be identified. Early into the act, Iago stands out as the clear antagonist. He plots and manipulates in order to obtain the coveted role as lieutenant, using people at will in his plans. The protagonist appears to be Othello, a Moor renowned for his military accomplishments. Othello seems to be the unfortunate prey in Iago's plot since he did not make Iago his lieutenant.Othello is able to disregard the racism and bitterness directed at him, but Iago has a plan to undermine Othello's calm demeanor. Suspense is built by throwing the reader right into the middle of a conversation, quickly learning about the developing plans. From that conversation, the reader is able to see how the plan develops to ensure drama and revenge. Iago often speaks to the audience, letting them know of his plans. Unfortunately for the other characters, none of them know of Iago's true intentions or the entirety of his plot.
In the first act, the reader meets the characters while they engage in a situation revolving around jealousy and love. The personalities and motivations of characters are also introduced, and the protagonist and antagonist can be identified. Early into the act, Iago stands out as the clear antagonist. He plots and manipulates in order to obtain the coveted role as lieutenant, using people at will in his plans. The protagonist appears to be Othello, a Moor renowned for his military accomplishments. Othello seems to be the unfortunate prey in Iago's plot since he did not make Iago his lieutenant.Othello is able to disregard the racism and bitterness directed at him, but Iago has a plan to undermine Othello's calm demeanor. Suspense is built by throwing the reader right into the middle of a conversation, quickly learning about the developing plans. From that conversation, the reader is able to see how the plan develops to ensure drama and revenge. Iago often speaks to the audience, letting them know of his plans. Unfortunately for the other characters, none of them know of Iago's true intentions or the entirety of his plot.
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