The scene I chose starts at 8:15
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Hurry!
Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet is an interpretation of Shakespeare’s tragedy, set in then-modern times in 1996. Romeo and Juliet come from feuding families, but fall in love, though eventually conflicts with the relatives bring about their premature deaths. This classic story has been played onstage for centuries, and most people are familiar with the plot. But this modern version is a complete change of pace. The movie was directed and produced by Baz Luhrman, who had the task of giving new light and new techniques to the story, and he made a version that is completely different from the norm. Luhrman’s rapid cutting techniques, harsh lighting and sound editing create a memorable, tense scene when Romeo races to the church to see his apparently dead love. Tones of chaos and determination show the great lengths one can go to assure the safety of someone or something they love.
Luhrman completely achieves the tone of urgency in the dash to the church scene, near the end of the movie. In two minutes of film, there are 70 cuts. The shots rapidly switch from Romeo’s frantic face to squealing police cars to a droning, hovering helicopter. This gives the effect that Romeo is being attacked on all sides and completely overwhelmed, by law enforcement not unwilling to kill him. The idea of being overwhelmed is also supported by the use of several camera angles, including aerial and panning shots of Romeo, showing he is watched from the air and from the street. The scene is almost confusing from the rapid changes in perspective, highlighting the chaotic element. Lighting is provided primarily from spotlights on the helicopter and police car headlights. It completely bleaches out Romeo, and his white face gives the appearance of fear, helped by the exertion from running. Romeo looks crazed, helping the chaotic effect. Finally, the sound editing adds another layer of noisy confusion to the scene. The helicopter is deafening throughout the three minutes, therefore Luhrman wanted this hovering presence to not go unnoticed. Loud gunshots add to the noise, and dramatic music plays the whole while. So the screen is flashing madly from the rapidity of cut shots, the noise is a cacophony of sounds, and the lighting on Romeo makes him look insane. The scene is chaotic. Romeo goes through all of this to get to his love and make sure she is alright.
Despite looking scared out of his wits, Romeo is very determined to get into the church to Juliet. Camera angles of Romeo running, such as panning and Romeo running into and out of the frame show that Romeo is really getting somewhere and not giving up. He runs as fast as possible, and one reason that Luhrman decided to cut so quickly was because he ran so quickly out of frame. Also, a considerable amount of the loud, distracting noise made in the scene was made by Romeo, indignant toward the police. He would not scream “Tempt not a desperate man!” while holding a gun to a hostage’s head if he was not determined to see Juliet. His own gunshots toward the helicopter and police officers add a significant amount of noise as well. Romeo indeed takes a hostage and positions the man in front of him so the police won’t shoot, while he is on the steps of the church. This certainly would not happen if Romeo was not determined. In the end, Romeo succeeds in reaching the church, and the police remain outside, allowing Romeo a last goodbye to his wife.
Romeo’s determination and the chaos of the scene in Baz Luhrman’s interpretation of Romeo + Juliet create the theme of going to any lengths to save a loved one. Luhrman’s modern, edgy twist to the genre of Shakespearean plays refreshes the theme, potentially made stale from many years on the stage. Indeed, I understood every monologue in the play after watching the movie instead of reading the book, because of the modern aspect. The use of fast cutting, harsh lighting and chaotic sound editing set the tones in this penultimate scene of a desperate chase through the streets of Verona Beach.
Luhrman completely achieves the tone of urgency in the dash to the church scene, near the end of the movie. In two minutes of film, there are 70 cuts. The shots rapidly switch from Romeo’s frantic face to squealing police cars to a droning, hovering helicopter. This gives the effect that Romeo is being attacked on all sides and completely overwhelmed, by law enforcement not unwilling to kill him. The idea of being overwhelmed is also supported by the use of several camera angles, including aerial and panning shots of Romeo, showing he is watched from the air and from the street. The scene is almost confusing from the rapid changes in perspective, highlighting the chaotic element. Lighting is provided primarily from spotlights on the helicopter and police car headlights. It completely bleaches out Romeo, and his white face gives the appearance of fear, helped by the exertion from running. Romeo looks crazed, helping the chaotic effect. Finally, the sound editing adds another layer of noisy confusion to the scene. The helicopter is deafening throughout the three minutes, therefore Luhrman wanted this hovering presence to not go unnoticed. Loud gunshots add to the noise, and dramatic music plays the whole while. So the screen is flashing madly from the rapidity of cut shots, the noise is a cacophony of sounds, and the lighting on Romeo makes him look insane. The scene is chaotic. Romeo goes through all of this to get to his love and make sure she is alright.
Despite looking scared out of his wits, Romeo is very determined to get into the church to Juliet. Camera angles of Romeo running, such as panning and Romeo running into and out of the frame show that Romeo is really getting somewhere and not giving up. He runs as fast as possible, and one reason that Luhrman decided to cut so quickly was because he ran so quickly out of frame. Also, a considerable amount of the loud, distracting noise made in the scene was made by Romeo, indignant toward the police. He would not scream “Tempt not a desperate man!” while holding a gun to a hostage’s head if he was not determined to see Juliet. His own gunshots toward the helicopter and police officers add a significant amount of noise as well. Romeo indeed takes a hostage and positions the man in front of him so the police won’t shoot, while he is on the steps of the church. This certainly would not happen if Romeo was not determined. In the end, Romeo succeeds in reaching the church, and the police remain outside, allowing Romeo a last goodbye to his wife.
Romeo’s determination and the chaos of the scene in Baz Luhrman’s interpretation of Romeo + Juliet create the theme of going to any lengths to save a loved one. Luhrman’s modern, edgy twist to the genre of Shakespearean plays refreshes the theme, potentially made stale from many years on the stage. Indeed, I understood every monologue in the play after watching the movie instead of reading the book, because of the modern aspect. The use of fast cutting, harsh lighting and chaotic sound editing set the tones in this penultimate scene of a desperate chase through the streets of Verona Beach.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Excellent movie scene: Romeo + Juliet
Location of Scene: Romeo goes to Juliet after he hears she's dead
Running time: 2:58
The scene begins with a close-up of a door being pounded on, which a man with a gun opens. Cut to a close-up of Romeo, yelling frantically at the man. Fast cuts back and forth between the man and Romeo. Cut to the man, with Romeo's fist holding money in the frame by the man's face. Man backs into the house and the camera follows. Close-up of the man's hand pulling a vial out of the base of a lamp. Cut to a close-up of the priest, drinking a shot, then turning away from the camera. Cut to a close-up of the man with the vial up to his face, then Romeo grabs it and there is a close-up of him with the vial. Cut to a medium shot of the exterior of the building they are in, low angle, lit with floodlights from a helicopter. Loud noise of the helicopter blades in the background. Romeo descends winding stairs and hops into a car, which pulls away quickly. Camera pans to the helicopter above. Cut to close-up of priest speaking. Cut to close-up of Prince, then quickly cut to aerial shot of Verona at night, mounted on the helicopter. Cut to nervous priest again. Cut to several fast aerial and panning shots of Romeo's getaway car, as well as shots of the helicopter hovering and cop cars. Cut to a close-up of Romeo getting out of the car and talking to the driver, then cut to a medium shot of the car peeling away. Cut to the perspective of the helicopter, floodlighting the street then panning up to the steeple of a church. Cut to EXCELLENT aerial wrap-around shot of the steeple, floodlit, as awesome dramatic opera music plays. Cut to several rapidly cut shots of Romeo running to the church, dodging cop cars as shots of the helicopter are cut in as well. Then some close-ups of Romeo and a man on the church steps, floodlit, and quick shots of police cars. Tight shot of the man, and Romeo grabs the man from out of frame and pulls the man out of frame. Cutting to close-ups of police offers then quickly back to a close-up of Romeo with a gun to the man's head, shouting "Tempt not a desperate man". Then a series of shots of Romeo from several perspectives shooting at the helicopter, with milisecond shots of the helicopter, police cars and police officers peppered in. Then a close-up of Romeo releasing his hostage and backing into the church. The scene is very hectic from the fast editing, tight shots of people moving around a lot, loud helicopter, dramatic music, gunfire and crazy lighting. It's very busy and dramatic.
Location of Scene: Romeo goes to Juliet after he hears she's dead
Running time: 2:58
The scene begins with a close-up of a door being pounded on, which a man with a gun opens. Cut to a close-up of Romeo, yelling frantically at the man. Fast cuts back and forth between the man and Romeo. Cut to the man, with Romeo's fist holding money in the frame by the man's face. Man backs into the house and the camera follows. Close-up of the man's hand pulling a vial out of the base of a lamp. Cut to a close-up of the priest, drinking a shot, then turning away from the camera. Cut to a close-up of the man with the vial up to his face, then Romeo grabs it and there is a close-up of him with the vial. Cut to a medium shot of the exterior of the building they are in, low angle, lit with floodlights from a helicopter. Loud noise of the helicopter blades in the background. Romeo descends winding stairs and hops into a car, which pulls away quickly. Camera pans to the helicopter above. Cut to close-up of priest speaking. Cut to close-up of Prince, then quickly cut to aerial shot of Verona at night, mounted on the helicopter. Cut to nervous priest again. Cut to several fast aerial and panning shots of Romeo's getaway car, as well as shots of the helicopter hovering and cop cars. Cut to a close-up of Romeo getting out of the car and talking to the driver, then cut to a medium shot of the car peeling away. Cut to the perspective of the helicopter, floodlighting the street then panning up to the steeple of a church. Cut to EXCELLENT aerial wrap-around shot of the steeple, floodlit, as awesome dramatic opera music plays. Cut to several rapidly cut shots of Romeo running to the church, dodging cop cars as shots of the helicopter are cut in as well. Then some close-ups of Romeo and a man on the church steps, floodlit, and quick shots of police cars. Tight shot of the man, and Romeo grabs the man from out of frame and pulls the man out of frame. Cutting to close-ups of police offers then quickly back to a close-up of Romeo with a gun to the man's head, shouting "Tempt not a desperate man". Then a series of shots of Romeo from several perspectives shooting at the helicopter, with milisecond shots of the helicopter, police cars and police officers peppered in. Then a close-up of Romeo releasing his hostage and backing into the church. The scene is very hectic from the fast editing, tight shots of people moving around a lot, loud helicopter, dramatic music, gunfire and crazy lighting. It's very busy and dramatic.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Journal #6: Word Choice
Anouilh repeats the words yes and no several times in the conversation between Antigone and Creon. I believe that Anouilh chose to rewrite this play and use yes and no so often is to show the significance of making one's own decisions, which is a big theme in Antigone. Other Greek tragedies are deeply rooted in the idea of fate and gods controlling decisions, but Antigone is prevalently rooted in the idea of choice and creating one's own destiny, which Anouilh must have found important.
Anouilh uses the ambiguous term of life in the conversation as well. Creon sees it as opportunity, but Antigone sees it as something that can become worthless and should end when the time is right. Such a conversation between the two can get twisted if their interpretations of life are very different.
Anouilh repeats the words yes and no several times in the conversation between Antigone and Creon. I believe that Anouilh chose to rewrite this play and use yes and no so often is to show the significance of making one's own decisions, which is a big theme in Antigone. Other Greek tragedies are deeply rooted in the idea of fate and gods controlling decisions, but Antigone is prevalently rooted in the idea of choice and creating one's own destiny, which Anouilh must have found important.
Anouilh uses the ambiguous term of life in the conversation as well. Creon sees it as opportunity, but Antigone sees it as something that can become worthless and should end when the time is right. Such a conversation between the two can get twisted if their interpretations of life are very different.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Journal #5: Motivation of Jason
Jason is motivated to be angry with Medea by the fact that she killed his sons. Not only is he angry that she killed them, but he feels that she does not understand Jason's point of view. Jason believes he is completely justified in marrying another woman, because he is supporting Medea. But Medea, after sacrificing so much for Jason, wants him all to herself because she believes she deserves him. Jason does not understand the idea of monogamy, apparently, and the pair definitely does not see eye to eye. So Jason is appaled and furious with Medea, who goes to such lengths as to kill Jason's bride and sons.
"You miserable, mephitic woman! Beyond abhorrence..." (74)
"Leave me to mourn my destiny of pain: my fresh young wedding without joy, my sons begot and reared and lost..." (75)
"Poor children, what a monster fate gave you for a mother!" (75)
Jason is motivated to be angry with Medea by the fact that she killed his sons. Not only is he angry that she killed them, but he feels that she does not understand Jason's point of view. Jason believes he is completely justified in marrying another woman, because he is supporting Medea. But Medea, after sacrificing so much for Jason, wants him all to herself because she believes she deserves him. Jason does not understand the idea of monogamy, apparently, and the pair definitely does not see eye to eye. So Jason is appaled and furious with Medea, who goes to such lengths as to kill Jason's bride and sons.
"You miserable, mephitic woman! Beyond abhorrence..." (74)
"Leave me to mourn my destiny of pain: my fresh young wedding without joy, my sons begot and reared and lost..." (75)
"Poor children, what a monster fate gave you for a mother!" (75)
Monday, May 11, 2009
Journal #4: literary techniques and their effects
Imagery: "...through the smell of them and their cruel, roaring laughter." Ismene is very afraid of getting into trouble, and the use of imagery highlights her characteristics of being a good, obedient woman.
Repetition:"Stronger than all fever..." (14) The repetition of strength provides the idea that the Nurse is very important to Antigone and will play a significant role later in the book. It also highlights the role of men versus women in a position of strength, as Sophocles puts men in the strong role and Anouilh is being different by putting women in a strong role.
Metaphor:"A little young for what, my kitten?" (14) Anouilh uses terms of endearment for Antigone to show that she is a sweet girl that one should feel sympathy for. The nurse loves Antigone, and we shall, as well.
Foreshadowing:"And we shall suffer..." (12) This use of foreshadow plays with the fact that the audience knows what will happen, so it is a form of dramatic irony. Also, the chorus at the beginning lets the reader know what will happen, which is a further use of dramatic irony.
Imagery: "...through the smell of them and their cruel, roaring laughter." Ismene is very afraid of getting into trouble, and the use of imagery highlights her characteristics of being a good, obedient woman.
Repetition:"Stronger than all fever..." (14) The repetition of strength provides the idea that the Nurse is very important to Antigone and will play a significant role later in the book. It also highlights the role of men versus women in a position of strength, as Sophocles puts men in the strong role and Anouilh is being different by putting women in a strong role.
Metaphor:"A little young for what, my kitten?" (14) Anouilh uses terms of endearment for Antigone to show that she is a sweet girl that one should feel sympathy for. The nurse loves Antigone, and we shall, as well.
Foreshadowing:"And we shall suffer..." (12) This use of foreshadow plays with the fact that the audience knows what will happen, so it is a form of dramatic irony. Also, the chorus at the beginning lets the reader know what will happen, which is a further use of dramatic irony.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Journal #3: What do you know about the 1940s in Europe and how do you predict that will influence Anouilh's version of Antigone?
Anouilh was a Frenchman during WWII when Antigone was written, which was a very turbulent time. The harsh realities of war are most likely reflected in the book, when the two brothers are fighting and kill one another. The line separating absolute good and absolute evil may have been blurred, as there could have been people that Anouilh knew serving both sides of the war, which also appears in the story when Antigone is conflicted with the fact that she loves her brother and that he was a bad person.
Anouilh was a Frenchman during WWII when Antigone was written, which was a very turbulent time. The harsh realities of war are most likely reflected in the book, when the two brothers are fighting and kill one another. The line separating absolute good and absolute evil may have been blurred, as there could have been people that Anouilh knew serving both sides of the war, which also appears in the story when Antigone is conflicted with the fact that she loves her brother and that he was a bad person.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Antigone Journal #2: Casting Antigone
Antigone- "Justice, that dwells with the gods below, knows no such law."
"Publish it to all the world! Else I shall hate you more."
"Ismene dear, my dear Ismene!"
Kate Winslet-compassionate but focused on doing what's right, serious and driven
Brown hair, thin, pretty
Ismene- "We are women; it is not for us to fight against men"
"O sister, sister, let me share your death"
"How can I still help you?"
Rachel McAdams-normally bubbly but sobered by the serious situation, anxious
very thin, brown hair, very pretty
Haemon- "By your wise decisions my life is ruled"
"It isn't a question of age, but of right and wrong"
"Let those that will be witness of your wickedness..."
Leonardo DiCaprio- serious, a good guy, muscular
Antigone- "Justice, that dwells with the gods below, knows no such law."
"Publish it to all the world! Else I shall hate you more."
"Ismene dear, my dear Ismene!"
Kate Winslet-compassionate but focused on doing what's right, serious and driven
Brown hair, thin, pretty
Ismene- "We are women; it is not for us to fight against men"
"O sister, sister, let me share your death"
"How can I still help you?"
Rachel McAdams-normally bubbly but sobered by the serious situation, anxious
very thin, brown hair, very pretty
Haemon- "By your wise decisions my life is ruled"
"It isn't a question of age, but of right and wrong"
"Let those that will be witness of your wickedness..."
Leonardo DiCaprio- serious, a good guy, muscular
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Antigone Journal #1
Knowledge Level (The recall of specific information):
What is Antigone's sister's name?
Which of her brothers was hated by the people of Thebes?
Comprehension Level (An understanding of what was read):
Why does Ismene not want to help Antigone?
Why is it dangerous for Antigone to bury her brother?
Analysis (The comparison and contrast of the content to personal experiences):
Why does one feel conflicted about the burial of one's brother?
How does one respond to the death of a sibling?
Evaluation (The judgment and evaluation of characters, actions, outcomes, etc…):
Why does the death of a close one prompt two unique responses?
Knowledge Level (The recall of specific information):
What is Antigone's sister's name?
Which of her brothers was hated by the people of Thebes?
Comprehension Level (An understanding of what was read):
Why does Ismene not want to help Antigone?
Why is it dangerous for Antigone to bury her brother?
Analysis (The comparison and contrast of the content to personal experiences):
Why does one feel conflicted about the burial of one's brother?
How does one respond to the death of a sibling?
Evaluation (The judgment and evaluation of characters, actions, outcomes, etc…):
Why does the death of a close one prompt two unique responses?
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Journal #3: Compare the elements of tragedy in Medea and Oedipus
Tragedy is a complex theory to give an exact definition for. It is a play in which the audience goes through catharsis, or purging of fear and pity. In Oedipus, the title character is the one that the audience feels pity and fear for. Oedipus is a strong, dignified leader, and he gets these unfortunate circumstances with his parents that crushes his dignity. Interestingly enough, the audience, including myself, wants to get to the end of the story where Oedipus falls apart. It makes me feel a bit disgusting that I want to see the downfall of a dignified man, but that is what tragedy is. Medea has a similar effect, in which I want to see how the story ends, and how characters react in the end. But I am vying for Medea to get revenge in the end, because I felt pity for her about the Jason situation. But my fear that I felt in Oedipus was for Oepdipus's wife/mother, who kills herself. I feel fear toward Medea, but I feel more anger toward Jason and desire for revenge.
Tragedy is a complex theory to give an exact definition for. It is a play in which the audience goes through catharsis, or purging of fear and pity. In Oedipus, the title character is the one that the audience feels pity and fear for. Oedipus is a strong, dignified leader, and he gets these unfortunate circumstances with his parents that crushes his dignity. Interestingly enough, the audience, including myself, wants to get to the end of the story where Oedipus falls apart. It makes me feel a bit disgusting that I want to see the downfall of a dignified man, but that is what tragedy is. Medea has a similar effect, in which I want to see how the story ends, and how characters react in the end. But I am vying for Medea to get revenge in the end, because I felt pity for her about the Jason situation. But my fear that I felt in Oedipus was for Oepdipus's wife/mother, who kills herself. I feel fear toward Medea, but I feel more anger toward Jason and desire for revenge.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Journal #2: How are Jason's and Medea's attitudes and interactions with the gods different?
Jason uses the gods to justify that he is a good person, while Medea uses the gods to prove that Jason is a bad person. "O Zeus and lady daughter, Justice, O resplendent Sun! And you my friends, at last we are on the road to vengeance" (764-766). Medea thanks the gods for their help in securing her plan against Jason. "Zeus, do you hear how I'm at bay[?]" (1405) shows that Jason is speaking of the gods to show that he is a humble man, and that he believes his life is controlled by the gods. The fact that he often brings up the subject of the gods gives Jason a "holier-than-thou" complex so his image of a good, strong, dominating man is not ruined. Medea seems to find more value in the gods, and actually prays for their help instead of appearing payerful. Both Jason and Medea reference the gods often, however, showing they are a prominent aspect of people's lives in the time of Euripides.
Jason uses the gods to justify that he is a good person, while Medea uses the gods to prove that Jason is a bad person. "O Zeus and lady daughter, Justice, O resplendent Sun! And you my friends, at last we are on the road to vengeance" (764-766). Medea thanks the gods for their help in securing her plan against Jason. "Zeus, do you hear how I'm at bay[?]" (1405) shows that Jason is speaking of the gods to show that he is a humble man, and that he believes his life is controlled by the gods. The fact that he often brings up the subject of the gods gives Jason a "holier-than-thou" complex so his image of a good, strong, dominating man is not ruined. Medea seems to find more value in the gods, and actually prays for their help instead of appearing payerful. Both Jason and Medea reference the gods often, however, showing they are a prominent aspect of people's lives in the time of Euripides.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Medea Journal #1: What is the role of the chorus in Medea?
The chorus is interesting in the amount of sympathy it has for Medea. In Oedipus, the chorus gave overviews of what happened, but there seemed to be a disconnect. Oedipus was a twisting, confusing play, however. The chorus was necessary in order to keep everything straight, and I think that was its primary role. But in Medea, the chorus is like a trusted friend of Medea, whispering its sympathies in our ear. Euripides does this because the story begins with Jason leaving Medea and Medea mourning this. There was a lot of backstory to this event happening, in which Medea saves Jason twice, even killing her own brother. Then Jason leaves her for another woman, and Medea is frighteningly angry. If one did not know the backstory, one might think that Medea is unreasonably angry, and ther would be no sympathy for her. But the chorus provides this, and pity is put into place. But then Euripides twists our feelings again, as Medea lashes out on her sons. The audience feels pity and fear at the same time, the sign of a true tragedy. The chorus is an important role in this precarious balancing act, as the provider of sympathy.
The chorus is interesting in the amount of sympathy it has for Medea. In Oedipus, the chorus gave overviews of what happened, but there seemed to be a disconnect. Oedipus was a twisting, confusing play, however. The chorus was necessary in order to keep everything straight, and I think that was its primary role. But in Medea, the chorus is like a trusted friend of Medea, whispering its sympathies in our ear. Euripides does this because the story begins with Jason leaving Medea and Medea mourning this. There was a lot of backstory to this event happening, in which Medea saves Jason twice, even killing her own brother. Then Jason leaves her for another woman, and Medea is frighteningly angry. If one did not know the backstory, one might think that Medea is unreasonably angry, and ther would be no sympathy for her. But the chorus provides this, and pity is put into place. But then Euripides twists our feelings again, as Medea lashes out on her sons. The audience feels pity and fear at the same time, the sign of a true tragedy. The chorus is an important role in this precarious balancing act, as the provider of sympathy.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Journal #5: How does Sophocles evoke fear and pity in the reader/audience and what significance does this have?
Pity and fear are very necessary in tragedies. Catharsis is crucial to giving the audience pleasure in watching characters suffer in the play. That way, people will keep coming back to watch it. Pity is brought about by characters receiving misfortune that resulted from a lack of judgement. Oedipus wrongly leaves his fake parents when he hears the oracle, and he kills a man that he had no inkling could be his father. The character loses his dignity, evoking buckets of pity. He fights elements that are outside his control, like the fact that he was born of different people than he thought, and loses, spectacularly. People feel pity in the play because they fear that their dignity can be taken away as well. Oedipus's fall from grace is, ironically, graceful, and deserved. A character receiving underved suffering is not tragic, it is sad. Tragedy is not about sadness.
Pity and fear are very necessary in tragedies. Catharsis is crucial to giving the audience pleasure in watching characters suffer in the play. That way, people will keep coming back to watch it. Pity is brought about by characters receiving misfortune that resulted from a lack of judgement. Oedipus wrongly leaves his fake parents when he hears the oracle, and he kills a man that he had no inkling could be his father. The character loses his dignity, evoking buckets of pity. He fights elements that are outside his control, like the fact that he was born of different people than he thought, and loses, spectacularly. People feel pity in the play because they fear that their dignity can be taken away as well. Oedipus's fall from grace is, ironically, graceful, and deserved. A character receiving underved suffering is not tragic, it is sad. Tragedy is not about sadness.
Journal #4: Tracking Eyes
The image of eyes have been repeated several times throughout the play. Teiresias makes comments about eyes several times when he tells Oedipus of his fate. "He that came seeing, blind shall he go... When you can prove me wrong, then call me blind." This is paradoxical, because Teiresias himself is blind. Sophocles uses eyes to portray knowlege. Teiresias is blind, but he can see much about life. Oedipus has his vision, but he is arrogant and prideful, and discovers his fate too late. When he learns his fate, he blinds himself, reflecting Teiresias. Oedipus's path to blindness reflects his descent to a pitiful situation and a loss of dignity that tragedies specialize in. "What should I do with eyes where all is ugliness?" Oedipus says these words after he blinds himself. He discovered that he impregnated his mother four times and murdered his father. Everything he would see would remind him of the disgusting things he did, and he did not want to face his troubles. Sophocles lowers Oedipus to the most base of characters.
The image of eyes have been repeated several times throughout the play. Teiresias makes comments about eyes several times when he tells Oedipus of his fate. "He that came seeing, blind shall he go... When you can prove me wrong, then call me blind." This is paradoxical, because Teiresias himself is blind. Sophocles uses eyes to portray knowlege. Teiresias is blind, but he can see much about life. Oedipus has his vision, but he is arrogant and prideful, and discovers his fate too late. When he learns his fate, he blinds himself, reflecting Teiresias. Oedipus's path to blindness reflects his descent to a pitiful situation and a loss of dignity that tragedies specialize in. "What should I do with eyes where all is ugliness?" Oedipus says these words after he blinds himself. He discovered that he impregnated his mother four times and murdered his father. Everything he would see would remind him of the disgusting things he did, and he did not want to face his troubles. Sophocles lowers Oedipus to the most base of characters.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Journal #3: What is the role of the gods?
Oedipus is almost constantly concerned about the gods and the oracle. He bases his entire life on what the oracle said to him and his father. The oracle said that he would kill his father and marry his mother, so this fear occupies Oedipus' mind constantly. The thought that he may control his own decisions and destiny does not cross his mand, so the gods play an eminent role in the play. This complete reliance on gods is surprising, and it seems like the Grecians do not want to accept responsibility for their actions, instead saying that their fate was decided by a higher power. Certain characters speak to gods who control whatever the character wants changed. So it's as if Grecians go up to a fast food restaurant and order what they want.
Oedipus is almost constantly concerned about the gods and the oracle. He bases his entire life on what the oracle said to him and his father. The oracle said that he would kill his father and marry his mother, so this fear occupies Oedipus' mind constantly. The thought that he may control his own decisions and destiny does not cross his mand, so the gods play an eminent role in the play. This complete reliance on gods is surprising, and it seems like the Grecians do not want to accept responsibility for their actions, instead saying that their fate was decided by a higher power. Certain characters speak to gods who control whatever the character wants changed. So it's as if Grecians go up to a fast food restaurant and order what they want.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Journal #2: Is Oedipus a proficient leader?
Oedipus is looking out for number 1 in his eyes. So far, he has accused his good friend of conspiring against him, because he thinks Creon told Teiresias that Oedipus was the murderer. None of this was based on fact, and the chorus knows that Oedipus is being unreasonable. So far, my opinion of Oedipus is not too great. He is rash, argumentative and proud. Creon seems very level-headed, giving a good argument to his case. Creon makes Oedipus look ridiculous.
Oedipus is looking out for number 1 in his eyes. So far, he has accused his good friend of conspiring against him, because he thinks Creon told Teiresias that Oedipus was the murderer. None of this was based on fact, and the chorus knows that Oedipus is being unreasonable. So far, my opinion of Oedipus is not too great. He is rash, argumentative and proud. Creon seems very level-headed, giving a good argument to his case. Creon makes Oedipus look ridiculous.
Oedipus Journal #1: Page-by-Page Summary
pg. 25: Oedipus wonders why his subjects are mourning in front of his palace.
pg. 26: The priest says the subjects are suffering, and they need Oedipus' help.
pg. 27: Oedipus says he suffers when his subjects suffer, as Creon returns with advice from Apollo.
pg. 28: Creon says that the prior king was murdered and that his murderer must be brought to justice.
pg. 29: Not much evidence was given to find the murderer, but Oedipus vows to find him.
pg. 30: The chorus prays for the suffering to end.
pg. 31: Oedipus orders the chorus to tell him if they know anything about the murderer.
pg. 25: Oedipus wonders why his subjects are mourning in front of his palace.
pg. 26: The priest says the subjects are suffering, and they need Oedipus' help.
pg. 27: Oedipus says he suffers when his subjects suffer, as Creon returns with advice from Apollo.
pg. 28: Creon says that the prior king was murdered and that his murderer must be brought to justice.
pg. 29: Not much evidence was given to find the murderer, but Oedipus vows to find him.
pg. 30: The chorus prays for the suffering to end.
pg. 31: Oedipus orders the chorus to tell him if they know anything about the murderer.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Dystopian Journal #3
Huxley warns his readers that, if citizens of a society are given eveything they want and need, many interesting ideas and actions will disappear. Mustapha Mond describes it well when he meets with the Savage. Mond says that people are happy now, and that happiness is not interesting. If a society is happy all the time, there will be no war, no passionate stories of love, and altogether nothing to titillate oneself with. Huxley's society is one in which people are conditioned to be satisfied with the position they are at in life all of the time. There is nothing to make them upset because they get everything they want. There is no love, therefore a huge, interesting part of life is lost. No one has a need for war, so courageous battles for freedom are nonexistent. Helmholtz finds it difficult to write interesting things, and he wishes for more, but he lives in a society where there are no problems or controversies that require interesting opinions that Helmholtz can write about. So it's interesting that, when this society has lost so much and is so stable, there are still people in the society that are discontented. They miss that which they have never experienced, they question their surroundings. It's an interesting message that Huxley tries to send, but an unconvincing one. This situation seems highly unlikely, as it involves so much science and technology. We, The Handmaid's Tale and 1984 are, to me, more effective in spreading a warning abut then-present day trends, because they deal with corrupt bureaucratic or corporate-run governments that had happened in the world before. Huxley deals with an advanced technology that had never been imagined, never mind occurred. The only hope in the society is that people abandon the cushiness of their society, leave the technology and go out into the "savage" world to experience love and war.
word count: 272
Huxley warns his readers that, if citizens of a society are given eveything they want and need, many interesting ideas and actions will disappear. Mustapha Mond describes it well when he meets with the Savage. Mond says that people are happy now, and that happiness is not interesting. If a society is happy all the time, there will be no war, no passionate stories of love, and altogether nothing to titillate oneself with. Huxley's society is one in which people are conditioned to be satisfied with the position they are at in life all of the time. There is nothing to make them upset because they get everything they want. There is no love, therefore a huge, interesting part of life is lost. No one has a need for war, so courageous battles for freedom are nonexistent. Helmholtz finds it difficult to write interesting things, and he wishes for more, but he lives in a society where there are no problems or controversies that require interesting opinions that Helmholtz can write about. So it's interesting that, when this society has lost so much and is so stable, there are still people in the society that are discontented. They miss that which they have never experienced, they question their surroundings. It's an interesting message that Huxley tries to send, but an unconvincing one. This situation seems highly unlikely, as it involves so much science and technology. We, The Handmaid's Tale and 1984 are, to me, more effective in spreading a warning abut then-present day trends, because they deal with corrupt bureaucratic or corporate-run governments that had happened in the world before. Huxley deals with an advanced technology that had never been imagined, never mind occurred. The only hope in the society is that people abandon the cushiness of their society, leave the technology and go out into the "savage" world to experience love and war.
word count: 272
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Dystopian Journal #2
Bernard Marx and John the savage are both characters who do not fit in to a society in their world. Bernard does a better job of fitting in than John, however. Bernard is an Alpha in London in Brave New World, but he does not look like the other Alphas. He's a few inches shorter, which would not be an issue in our world. But in Huxley's world, people are made instead of born, and they are made following very specific recipes. All Alpha males should look very similar, just like the Beta females and Delta males. Bernard's uniqueness makes him an outcast. Feeling like an outcast, he acts like he doesn't fit in, making him more of an outcast. And in a world where sex is rigorously supported and where physical looks are so important, Bernard certainly feels like he does not belong. However, Bernard does not try to resist the society's ways; rather, he searched for ways to fit in and belong more. And when he found John the savage, his sense of belonging was fulfilled because women wanted to sleep with him after finding such an incredible discovery. Huxley's world is unique in that very few characters find a flaw in the society. John the savage sees shortcomings in the society in that here is no love, but he was not conditioned to find love unimportant. The technique of conditioning people with hypnopaedia was so successful, the members of the society find nothing wrong with the world they live in.
Word Count: 221
Bernard Marx and John the savage are both characters who do not fit in to a society in their world. Bernard does a better job of fitting in than John, however. Bernard is an Alpha in London in Brave New World, but he does not look like the other Alphas. He's a few inches shorter, which would not be an issue in our world. But in Huxley's world, people are made instead of born, and they are made following very specific recipes. All Alpha males should look very similar, just like the Beta females and Delta males. Bernard's uniqueness makes him an outcast. Feeling like an outcast, he acts like he doesn't fit in, making him more of an outcast. And in a world where sex is rigorously supported and where physical looks are so important, Bernard certainly feels like he does not belong. However, Bernard does not try to resist the society's ways; rather, he searched for ways to fit in and belong more. And when he found John the savage, his sense of belonging was fulfilled because women wanted to sleep with him after finding such an incredible discovery. Huxley's world is unique in that very few characters find a flaw in the society. John the savage sees shortcomings in the society in that here is no love, but he was not conditioned to find love unimportant. The technique of conditioning people with hypnopaedia was so successful, the members of the society find nothing wrong with the world they live in.
Word Count: 221
This propaganda is targeting young American men by depicting Germans as brutes who deserved to be killed. The tone is appropriate to the society because the Germans did not have a great reputation thus far in WWI. The poster shows a woman representing Liberty in the clutches of a German ape, which would show that freedom needs protection from Germany. The slogan "Destroy this brute!" is quite catchy, and it would probably stay in the audience's mind. One can imagine that young men would feel compelled to join the army after seeing this poster, but not manipulated into joining by this poster. The poster would have made young men join of their own decision, to stop the Germans from taking people's freedom away.
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Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Journal #2: Images
- Huxley uses long words to describe surroundings in society
- onomatopoeias used
- fragmented sentences occasionally when describing a setting
- "hundreds of male voices crying out fiercely in harsh metallic unison" appeals to sound
- moslty descriptive of sound - beating drums, humming of propellors
Why does Huxley use several adjectives to describe his world, instead of a few?
Why does Huxley repeat the imagery of the decanting process?
Why does Huxley reflect more on the characters' surroundings than the characters' thoughts?
Why does Huxley describe the sacrifice of the savage boy in such detail?
Huxley uses vivid imagery for the sacrifice of the savage boy in New Mexico to emphasize the juxtaposition between Barnard and Lenina's world and John's "ancient" world.
Huxley goes into great detail when describing London society in order to emphasize the radical difference between this future world and the world today.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Dystopian Journal #1
"He let out the amazing truth. For a very long period before the time of Our Ford, and even for some generations afterwords, erotic play between children had been regarded as abnormal..." (Huxley 32)
Huxley's scientific-based society in Brave New World is one very different from ours. In our world, it is safe to say that there are plenty of human beings living and consuming. The United States' population has reached more than 300,000,000, and one can even say there are too many people on Earth. The planet has problems with too much consumption, and that is arguably the most pressing issue with the world today. But in Huxley's world, public opinion is the complete opposite. There is no such thing as "overpopulated". People are being "created" as numerously and as quickly as possible. The philosophy of Huxley's world is vastly different: the higher number of people in a society, the stronger the society. More things can be made, more can be consumed, and it's a constant circle. People are made to consume and enjoy the concept of making more people, so products are continually consumed and the society's values are kept strong. A word to describe the society perfectly is "efficient". No one person has more of a destiny than helping make consumer products and consuming products. This makes for a very rich society, indeed, and a very self-sufficient one at that.
Word count: 201
"He let out the amazing truth. For a very long period before the time of Our Ford, and even for some generations afterwords, erotic play between children had been regarded as abnormal..." (Huxley 32)
Huxley's scientific-based society in Brave New World is one very different from ours. In our world, it is safe to say that there are plenty of human beings living and consuming. The United States' population has reached more than 300,000,000, and one can even say there are too many people on Earth. The planet has problems with too much consumption, and that is arguably the most pressing issue with the world today. But in Huxley's world, public opinion is the complete opposite. There is no such thing as "overpopulated". People are being "created" as numerously and as quickly as possible. The philosophy of Huxley's world is vastly different: the higher number of people in a society, the stronger the society. More things can be made, more can be consumed, and it's a constant circle. People are made to consume and enjoy the concept of making more people, so products are continually consumed and the society's values are kept strong. A word to describe the society perfectly is "efficient". No one person has more of a destiny than helping make consumer products and consuming products. This makes for a very rich society, indeed, and a very self-sufficient one at that.
Word count: 201
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Journal #8
Meursault comes to the conclusion that he and the world are unimportant to its inhabitants. He has no need in believing in God, because there is no life beyond the one on Earth. Death is obliteration, and now is as good a time as ever, seeing as its inevitable. He sees other people's beliefs as ridiculous, and a conscience as unnecessary. But I'm confused that he needs to be fulfilled by not being alone, and by feeling the hate of others, he would feel less alone. If he feels indifferent and disconnected to everything, why would he need the opinions of others about himself? Maybe he wants to show those people that they are wrong, that there is no significance to life and that they should live like him. He thinks he's becoming a martyr. Camus wants the reader to disagree, though. If Meursault can only spread his message by dying, there could be mass suicide!
Meursault comes to the conclusion that he and the world are unimportant to its inhabitants. He has no need in believing in God, because there is no life beyond the one on Earth. Death is obliteration, and now is as good a time as ever, seeing as its inevitable. He sees other people's beliefs as ridiculous, and a conscience as unnecessary. But I'm confused that he needs to be fulfilled by not being alone, and by feeling the hate of others, he would feel less alone. If he feels indifferent and disconnected to everything, why would he need the opinions of others about himself? Maybe he wants to show those people that they are wrong, that there is no significance to life and that they should live like him. He thinks he's becoming a martyr. Camus wants the reader to disagree, though. If Meursault can only spread his message by dying, there could be mass suicide!
Monday, March 2, 2009
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Journal #8: Why does Camus create a part 1 and part 2?
Meursault goes to jail in part 2, which takes away his freedom. It's an entirely new perspective for him, and it changes his mindset. He reflects on his thoughts a lot more, and Camus creates a dynamic character. In part 1, Meursault lives physically, only reacting toward hunger, sleep, women and heat. I did not relate to the character at all. But Meursault gets more time to think about his life in part 2, after he kills a man and is sent to prison. It's kinda sick when he finds satisfaction in being questioned by authorities on a regular basis. "...I was almost surprised that I had ever enjoyed anything other than those rare moments when the judge would lead me to the door of his office, slap me on the shoulder, and say to me cordially, 'That's all for today, Monsieur Antichrist.' " (71) Meursault also changes in part 2 in that he gets a lot more attention, and responds with confusion and discomfort. It's another thing that he reflects on that, in part 1, he wouldn't have had much concern for. Camus creates two parts in order to portray the dynamic characterization of Meursault.
Meursault goes to jail in part 2, which takes away his freedom. It's an entirely new perspective for him, and it changes his mindset. He reflects on his thoughts a lot more, and Camus creates a dynamic character. In part 1, Meursault lives physically, only reacting toward hunger, sleep, women and heat. I did not relate to the character at all. But Meursault gets more time to think about his life in part 2, after he kills a man and is sent to prison. It's kinda sick when he finds satisfaction in being questioned by authorities on a regular basis. "...I was almost surprised that I had ever enjoyed anything other than those rare moments when the judge would lead me to the door of his office, slap me on the shoulder, and say to me cordially, 'That's all for today, Monsieur Antichrist.' " (71) Meursault also changes in part 2 in that he gets a lot more attention, and responds with confusion and discomfort. It's another thing that he reflects on that, in part 1, he wouldn't have had much concern for. Camus creates two parts in order to portray the dynamic characterization of Meursault.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Journal #7: Answering others' questions on The Stranger.
1. Camus did not use powerful word choice in order to emphasize Meursault's indifference toward events in his life in general.
2. Camus uses contrast between Meursault's speech and others' speech to emphasize Meursault's disinterest to things going on around him.
3. Camus uses the sun and the sea to affect Meursault in order to portray that only physical discomfort has an effect on Meursault.
4. Camus does not use many symbols in order to convey that things in Meursault's life have no other meaning than the literal.
5. Camus creates a unique character in Meursault to emphasize the unique philosophy of existentialism.
7. Camus makes Meursault's life repetitive on order to emphasize the lack of meaning in his life.
8. Camus uses first person narrative to give an inside look of a character who lives without an idea of consequences.
9. Camus varies timewise to convey Meursault's lack of a grip on reality and how the world works.
1. Camus did not use powerful word choice in order to emphasize Meursault's indifference toward events in his life in general.
2. Camus uses contrast between Meursault's speech and others' speech to emphasize Meursault's disinterest to things going on around him.
3. Camus uses the sun and the sea to affect Meursault in order to portray that only physical discomfort has an effect on Meursault.
4. Camus does not use many symbols in order to convey that things in Meursault's life have no other meaning than the literal.
5. Camus creates a unique character in Meursault to emphasize the unique philosophy of existentialism.
7. Camus makes Meursault's life repetitive on order to emphasize the lack of meaning in his life.
8. Camus uses first person narrative to give an inside look of a character who lives without an idea of consequences.
9. Camus varies timewise to convey Meursault's lack of a grip on reality and how the world works.
Journal #6
1. Word Choice
Why does Camus choose to use small word in The Stranger?
2. Sentences
Why does Camus only use statements in The Stranger, no exclamations or questions?
3. Images
Why does Camus use the image of heat?
4. Symbols
Why does Camus have a lack of symbols, and how does that portray a theme?
5. Figures of Speech
Why does Camus not use figures of speech, and what does that reveal about Meursault?
6. Rhetorical Devices
Why does Camus use short statements at the beginning of every chapter?
7. Patterns
Why does Camus use the motif of sleep?
8. Narrators
Why does Camus choose to use a first person objective character to tell the story?
9. Structure
Why does Camus choose to make days go by quickly, and how does it reflect a theme?
1. Word Choice
Why does Camus choose to use small word in The Stranger?
2. Sentences
Why does Camus only use statements in The Stranger, no exclamations or questions?
3. Images
Why does Camus use the image of heat?
4. Symbols
Why does Camus have a lack of symbols, and how does that portray a theme?
5. Figures of Speech
Why does Camus not use figures of speech, and what does that reveal about Meursault?
6. Rhetorical Devices
Why does Camus use short statements at the beginning of every chapter?
7. Patterns
Why does Camus use the motif of sleep?
8. Narrators
Why does Camus choose to use a first person objective character to tell the story?
9. Structure
Why does Camus choose to make days go by quickly, and how does it reflect a theme?
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Journal #5: How does my personal philosophy affect my opinion of the book?
Well, to be honest, I made up my philosophy because I'm a cookie-cutter theist. I felt like being a little creative! But Meursault's interesting actions and responses of "it doesn't really matter" certainly go against my philosophy. Meursault acts because he sees no reason not to act, and tends to be absent of tense emotions. I tend to do what I think is right, I have a conscience and I have an idea of my consequences. Meursault has an absence of consequence in his thinking. When he shot the Arab, it was in response to him being "overheated", and his conscience had no say in the matter. He lives in the moment, which is not in my philosophy. But just because I don't approve of his lifestyle does not mean he is wrong, as difficult as it is to admit it! Some people may completely approve of how Meursault lives, and would rather live like him. But his absence of emotions like remorse, love and irritation is a bit unnerving.
Well, to be honest, I made up my philosophy because I'm a cookie-cutter theist. I felt like being a little creative! But Meursault's interesting actions and responses of "it doesn't really matter" certainly go against my philosophy. Meursault acts because he sees no reason not to act, and tends to be absent of tense emotions. I tend to do what I think is right, I have a conscience and I have an idea of my consequences. Meursault has an absence of consequence in his thinking. When he shot the Arab, it was in response to him being "overheated", and his conscience had no say in the matter. He lives in the moment, which is not in my philosophy. But just because I don't approve of his lifestyle does not mean he is wrong, as difficult as it is to admit it! Some people may completely approve of how Meursault lives, and would rather live like him. But his absence of emotions like remorse, love and irritation is a bit unnerving.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Journal #3: My Personal Philosophy
Tritheism: The philosophy that all humans' destinies are linked together under the power of three gods, each balancing the other out.
Tritheism: The philosophy that all humans' destinies are linked together under the power of three gods, each balancing the other out.
- Gods speak through holy prophets
The god cannot communicate with their subjects without a mouthpiece, which comes in the form of prophets.
- dreams come for people whose destinies will cross
A way to speak directly to the subjects when it is most important.
- Prophets live on Earth, like a royal family
People know that the prophets are holy, and when the prophet dies, their descendant becomes the next prophet
- Prophets are worshipped in churches, as well as the three gods
- Gods are omnicient
They have a hand in what is going on on Earth, in order to reveal destinies
- One god represents love, one represents dedication to the cause, and one represents the afterlife
They balance each other out, with the most important elements in life and death
- if you are dedicated to spreading the word of Tritheism, you will recieve love and a happy afterlife, which is your destiny.
This is the point of the philosophy, to have paradise when you die.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Journal #2: Describe Meursault's actions/activities. How do you respond to Meursault's activities? Why would Camus create a protagonist like Meursault- what is he trying to accomplish?
Meursault's actions may be interesting, but it's his thoughts while doing these actions that are more interesting. Or, rather, lack of thought. The Stranger is written in first person point of view, so one is able to read the protagonist's thoughts. But the story may as well be written in a narrator's point of view, one whom is very distant from the protagonist, because we get such a limited idea of Merusault's thoughts. He may just not think much. All that is said, basically, is the action he is doing. The most in-depth discussion is that he's hot and sweaty. He acts disconnected from his situation, and he thinks disconnected as well. Chapter 2 highlights this, because he sits and watches the street all day, which is about as disconnected as you can get. Camus is tying to convey the philosophy of existentialism- how there is no higher power and the only fate in a person's life depends on the decisions they make. It is life without meaning. Meursault's life certainly seems meaningless, even his affairs lack passion.
Meursault's actions may be interesting, but it's his thoughts while doing these actions that are more interesting. Or, rather, lack of thought. The Stranger is written in first person point of view, so one is able to read the protagonist's thoughts. But the story may as well be written in a narrator's point of view, one whom is very distant from the protagonist, because we get such a limited idea of Merusault's thoughts. He may just not think much. All that is said, basically, is the action he is doing. The most in-depth discussion is that he's hot and sweaty. He acts disconnected from his situation, and he thinks disconnected as well. Chapter 2 highlights this, because he sits and watches the street all day, which is about as disconnected as you can get. Camus is tying to convey the philosophy of existentialism- how there is no higher power and the only fate in a person's life depends on the decisions they make. It is life without meaning. Meursault's life certainly seems meaningless, even his affairs lack passion.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Stranger Journal #1: How are the two translations of the first page of The Stranger different? What effect does these differences create?
This story, so far, blows my mind. When I read the first page of the Random House translation, I did not have much to say. But then I read the other translation, and I could not stop writing. The Random House translation has very fluid sentences, for the most part. They are nice and long, and flow from one to the next. It is very formal, as well. But translation #2 has tons of very short, choppy sentences. It makes the narrator seem distracted, but not on account of their mother's death. In both translations, the narrator seems distracted because of their employer, which would seem much less important. Several lines are written about making arrangements to take a few days off, almost as many as the description of their mother's death. I say "their", because I know very little about the narrator. The story is written as though it's directly into the narrator's head, and of course, people don't think like, "I, Harry Crick, arranged my mother's funeral...". I would not be surprised if we never learned this character's name. That would actually be pretty cool. But the two translations give two very different ideas on what is happening in the narrator's head.
This story, so far, blows my mind. When I read the first page of the Random House translation, I did not have much to say. But then I read the other translation, and I could not stop writing. The Random House translation has very fluid sentences, for the most part. They are nice and long, and flow from one to the next. It is very formal, as well. But translation #2 has tons of very short, choppy sentences. It makes the narrator seem distracted, but not on account of their mother's death. In both translations, the narrator seems distracted because of their employer, which would seem much less important. Several lines are written about making arrangements to take a few days off, almost as many as the description of their mother's death. I say "their", because I know very little about the narrator. The story is written as though it's directly into the narrator's head, and of course, people don't think like, "I, Harry Crick, arranged my mother's funeral...". I would not be surprised if we never learned this character's name. That would actually be pretty cool. But the two translations give two very different ideas on what is happening in the narrator's head.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Journal #8: How does the structure affect the text?
The novel is very symmetrical. It opens with the symbolism of the horizon, and closes with the same symbol. But the ideas that accompany the horizon are very different from beginning to end. In the beginning, the horizon is unreachable and unimaginable. It's a distant thing that men wish for but never possess. But in the end, Janie reflects on how she was able to reach her horizon. It is a very poignant effect, it draws the book neatly to a close. I have read several books with abrupt and disappointing endings, but I was fine with the ending to this book. The dynamic symbolism creates a satisfying end to it.
The novel is very symmetrical. It opens with the symbolism of the horizon, and closes with the same symbol. But the ideas that accompany the horizon are very different from beginning to end. In the beginning, the horizon is unreachable and unimaginable. It's a distant thing that men wish for but never possess. But in the end, Janie reflects on how she was able to reach her horizon. It is a very poignant effect, it draws the book neatly to a close. I have read several books with abrupt and disappointing endings, but I was fine with the ending to this book. The dynamic symbolism creates a satisfying end to it.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Journal #8: What is the significance of the title? What does Hurston suggest about the relationship between the characters and God?
Hurston suggests that God is omnipresent in the characters' lives. Although things happening around them are very real, the explanation for them is that it's God's doing. When things are difficult to understand, either wonderful or terrible, the source is God's power. The balance between real world and spiritual belief is highlighted in this quote: "They seemed to be staring at the dark, but their eyes were watching God." The characters not only fully accept that God is the meaning of everything, but they cling to the belief with all of their might. The fact that everything is explained as God's doing does not suggest that the characters are uneducated and have no other answer; the characters are merely religious.
Hurston suggests that God is omnipresent in the characters' lives. Although things happening around them are very real, the explanation for them is that it's God's doing. When things are difficult to understand, either wonderful or terrible, the source is God's power. The balance between real world and spiritual belief is highlighted in this quote: "They seemed to be staring at the dark, but their eyes were watching God." The characters not only fully accept that God is the meaning of everything, but they cling to the belief with all of their might. The fact that everything is explained as God's doing does not suggest that the characters are uneducated and have no other answer; the characters are merely religious.
Journal #7: How does Mrs. Turner's relationship with her husband affect her character? Discuss their roles in marriage, and compare them to other couples in the chapters.
Mrs. Turner is the dominant one in her marriage. Mr. Turner has realized this, and probably decided to disappear into the background and let her do everything, or else she would probably throw a fit if she thought he did something wrong. But now Mrs. Turner considers his submission as laziness, and has narrowed it down to the fact that he is darker than her as the source of his laziness. Mrs. Turner thinks black people are loud and lazy, and she is neither because she's lighter, therefore not in their "category". It's an interesting interpretation made by a person of the very race being stereotyped. Mrs. Turner's husband's actions developed her racism toward black people.
Mrs. Turner is the dominant one in her marriage. Mr. Turner has realized this, and probably decided to disappear into the background and let her do everything, or else she would probably throw a fit if she thought he did something wrong. But now Mrs. Turner considers his submission as laziness, and has narrowed it down to the fact that he is darker than her as the source of his laziness. Mrs. Turner thinks black people are loud and lazy, and she is neither because she's lighter, therefore not in their "category". It's an interesting interpretation made by a person of the very race being stereotyped. Mrs. Turner's husband's actions developed her racism toward black people.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Journal #6: 3 Literary Terms
1. Personification. "Janie dozed off to sleep but she woke up in time to see the sun sending up spies ahead of him to mark out the road through the dark." This is the cutest personification I have ever read. Hurston makes it sound like the sun is afraid of the dark, and it sent small rays of light go first to lighten up the sky. Then she goes on saying that the sun was red first, showing off, then went back to its typical white. I've never heard of anyone making the sunrise seem silly and whimsical. Hurston created this thought for Janie to show that she feels everyone else is having a lovely time except her. She's so upset with Tea Cake, and she feels like the only one who is unhappy. The sun is mocking her.
2. Hyperbole. "When the fellow began to pick to pick the box the people began to come from east, west, north and Australia." Another adorable literary technique. Tea Cake is explaining his absence to Janie, and as usual is vibrant, silly and exaggerated. Janie has been thinking stormy thoughts but Tea Cake bursts in and tells this fun story about his day. His hyperbole shows characterization of Tea Cake's whimsical nature. I can imagine Tea Cake smiling widely and jumping up and down, even while conscious that Janie is furious with him. He seems vivacious by nature.
3. Characterization. "Baby, Ah run mah other arm in mah coat-sleeve and grabbed dat nigger by his necktie befo' he could bat his eye and then Ah wuz all over 'im jus' lak gravy over rice." Tea Cake is talking about something very serious, a fight between himself and another man over money, but the way he says it makes it sound fun and comical. He has a characterization of radiance, I want to get to know this man myself. I like him more than Janie. His speeches are captivating and entertaining, and it's no wonder that everyone goes to his and Janie's house to have fun.
1. Personification. "Janie dozed off to sleep but she woke up in time to see the sun sending up spies ahead of him to mark out the road through the dark." This is the cutest personification I have ever read. Hurston makes it sound like the sun is afraid of the dark, and it sent small rays of light go first to lighten up the sky. Then she goes on saying that the sun was red first, showing off, then went back to its typical white. I've never heard of anyone making the sunrise seem silly and whimsical. Hurston created this thought for Janie to show that she feels everyone else is having a lovely time except her. She's so upset with Tea Cake, and she feels like the only one who is unhappy. The sun is mocking her.
2. Hyperbole. "When the fellow began to pick to pick the box the people began to come from east, west, north and Australia." Another adorable literary technique. Tea Cake is explaining his absence to Janie, and as usual is vibrant, silly and exaggerated. Janie has been thinking stormy thoughts but Tea Cake bursts in and tells this fun story about his day. His hyperbole shows characterization of Tea Cake's whimsical nature. I can imagine Tea Cake smiling widely and jumping up and down, even while conscious that Janie is furious with him. He seems vivacious by nature.
3. Characterization. "Baby, Ah run mah other arm in mah coat-sleeve and grabbed dat nigger by his necktie befo' he could bat his eye and then Ah wuz all over 'im jus' lak gravy over rice." Tea Cake is talking about something very serious, a fight between himself and another man over money, but the way he says it makes it sound fun and comical. He has a characterization of radiance, I want to get to know this man myself. I like him more than Janie. His speeches are captivating and entertaining, and it's no wonder that everyone goes to his and Janie's house to have fun.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Journal #5: What motivates Janie? How has she changed?
Janie has changed because she is now starting to find a man that can make her happy. She thought that marriage would bring her happiness, but she did not find the right person in Joe. He did not allow Janie to speak or think for herself, which made her feel oppressed. The ironic thing is that Joe had to die in order for Janie to feel free. Her voice could be heard after Joe was gone, albeit a slow emergence. Her most prominent change could be seen when she met Tea Cake, who was able to take Janie out of her shell. He allowed her to be himself, and let her make her own decisions. "Ah always did want tuh git round uh whole heap, but Jody wouldn't 'low me tuh." Not only did she realize that the person she loved could bring out the best in her, but she realized that marriage is not always a fantasy. People can change after they're married. So Janie's motivation changed from getting married in general to finding someone who loves her for her.
Janie has changed because she is now starting to find a man that can make her happy. She thought that marriage would bring her happiness, but she did not find the right person in Joe. He did not allow Janie to speak or think for herself, which made her feel oppressed. The ironic thing is that Joe had to die in order for Janie to feel free. Her voice could be heard after Joe was gone, albeit a slow emergence. Her most prominent change could be seen when she met Tea Cake, who was able to take Janie out of her shell. He allowed her to be himself, and let her make her own decisions. "Ah always did want tuh git round uh whole heap, but Jody wouldn't 'low me tuh." Not only did she realize that the person she loved could bring out the best in her, but she realized that marriage is not always a fantasy. People can change after they're married. So Janie's motivation changed from getting married in general to finding someone who loves her for her.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Journal #4: Imitating Hurston's Personification
So Alice had stopped submitting to fear. Fear, that constrictive being with cold fingers who lurks in the unknown. The strong one who lived in the conscience of the sane like a vicious storyteller whispering in one's ear. What need has Fear for enveloping the insane, and what madness can drive him away? He creeps in his cold cavern that coaxes the curious as well as the cautious. Waits silently all day with his lips drawn back, waiting for the wary ones to step into the mystery. Been waiting everywhere at once for eternity, for him and her and them and theirs. She found her friends embedded with his teethmarks very often. She was impatient and excited too. Poor Micah! He ought not to have to venture the caves by himself. She sent his mom to accompany him, but Micah said No. A mother was all right when he was young, but he's much too old for that now. He'd be all right as soon as he saw that he could not get hurt. He was definitely going to jump. That was what he believed. But his mom told her of his past, so she could see. And then if he didn't, he would be teased mercilessly, for all of his friends had come to the cliff at the edge of the sea. People who laughed at Fear, had met the glorious being that materialized before them once they had conquered the constrictive one. Micah's friends stood on the cliffs and waited for his revelation. Freedom, that uncaged tiger, was just a step out of reach.
So Alice had stopped submitting to fear. Fear, that constrictive being with cold fingers who lurks in the unknown. The strong one who lived in the conscience of the sane like a vicious storyteller whispering in one's ear. What need has Fear for enveloping the insane, and what madness can drive him away? He creeps in his cold cavern that coaxes the curious as well as the cautious. Waits silently all day with his lips drawn back, waiting for the wary ones to step into the mystery. Been waiting everywhere at once for eternity, for him and her and them and theirs. She found her friends embedded with his teethmarks very often. She was impatient and excited too. Poor Micah! He ought not to have to venture the caves by himself. She sent his mom to accompany him, but Micah said No. A mother was all right when he was young, but he's much too old for that now. He'd be all right as soon as he saw that he could not get hurt. He was definitely going to jump. That was what he believed. But his mom told her of his past, so she could see. And then if he didn't, he would be teased mercilessly, for all of his friends had come to the cliff at the edge of the sea. People who laughed at Fear, had met the glorious being that materialized before them once they had conquered the constrictive one. Micah's friends stood on the cliffs and waited for his revelation. Freedom, that uncaged tiger, was just a step out of reach.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Journal #3
5 Literay Terms in Chapter 4 of Their Eyes Were Watching God:
1. Simile: "Logan held his wad of tobacco real still in his jaw like a thermometer of his feelings while he studied Janie's face and waited for her to say something."
This simile shows how Logan is waiting for Janie's response, and the way she reacts will determine what he says next. The tobacco is like a thermometer because he keeps it very still to wait for its reading, which in this situation is Janie's answer. His feelings will vary with Janie's response, just like the degrees in a thermometer varies with a person's temperature.
2. Imagery: "The noon sun filtered through the leaves of the fine oak tree where she sat and made lacy patterns on the ground."
The imagery appeals to one's sight and touch, because it sounds intricate and warm. The imagery is important because trees and gardens are becoming a symbol in this story, of growth, maturity and spring awakening. The narrator shows how these small details of the tree is important to Janie.
3. Characterization: "His coat was over his arm, but he didn't need it to represent his clothes. The shirt wth the silk sleeveholders was dazzling enough for the world. He whistled, mopped his face and walked like he knew where he was going."
Characterization is always important! This man is described like he is going to be an important character later in the book. This is Janie's first impression of this character, and it reveals that she thinks he is dignified and with plenty of money. Her first impression may affect her actions later, so if the narrator just said he was a black man with a nice shirt, one may not understand how Janie will react.
4. Metaphor: "The sun from ambush was threatening the world with red daggers, but the shadows were gray and solid-looking around the barn."
Janie does not seem to like the daytime. An ambush is something sudden and unwelcome, and daggers do not sound welcoming at all, so Janie dreads the sun coming out. She does not like answering to her husband and listening to his insults and degradations. Sleep is quiet and peaceful, and Janie seems to want to keep it that way.
5. Simile: "Logan with his shovel looked like a black bear doing some clumsy dance on his hind legs."
This simile reveals Logan's familiarity with a shovel, as well as Janie's attitude toward her husband in general. A bear on its hind legs does not sound particularly graceful, so Logan either is not strong enough to shovel manure or he has not shoveled stuff much. But if he chops wood for his wife, then he seems like he should be able to shovel manure. But Janie does not love her husband, so she will not compare him to something aesthetically pleasing.
5 Literay Terms in Chapter 4 of Their Eyes Were Watching God:
1. Simile: "Logan held his wad of tobacco real still in his jaw like a thermometer of his feelings while he studied Janie's face and waited for her to say something."
This simile shows how Logan is waiting for Janie's response, and the way she reacts will determine what he says next. The tobacco is like a thermometer because he keeps it very still to wait for its reading, which in this situation is Janie's answer. His feelings will vary with Janie's response, just like the degrees in a thermometer varies with a person's temperature.
2. Imagery: "The noon sun filtered through the leaves of the fine oak tree where she sat and made lacy patterns on the ground."
The imagery appeals to one's sight and touch, because it sounds intricate and warm. The imagery is important because trees and gardens are becoming a symbol in this story, of growth, maturity and spring awakening. The narrator shows how these small details of the tree is important to Janie.
3. Characterization: "His coat was over his arm, but he didn't need it to represent his clothes. The shirt wth the silk sleeveholders was dazzling enough for the world. He whistled, mopped his face and walked like he knew where he was going."
Characterization is always important! This man is described like he is going to be an important character later in the book. This is Janie's first impression of this character, and it reveals that she thinks he is dignified and with plenty of money. Her first impression may affect her actions later, so if the narrator just said he was a black man with a nice shirt, one may not understand how Janie will react.
4. Metaphor: "The sun from ambush was threatening the world with red daggers, but the shadows were gray and solid-looking around the barn."
Janie does not seem to like the daytime. An ambush is something sudden and unwelcome, and daggers do not sound welcoming at all, so Janie dreads the sun coming out. She does not like answering to her husband and listening to his insults and degradations. Sleep is quiet and peaceful, and Janie seems to want to keep it that way.
5. Simile: "Logan with his shovel looked like a black bear doing some clumsy dance on his hind legs."
This simile reveals Logan's familiarity with a shovel, as well as Janie's attitude toward her husband in general. A bear on its hind legs does not sound particularly graceful, so Logan either is not strong enough to shovel manure or he has not shoveled stuff much. But if he chops wood for his wife, then he seems like he should be able to shovel manure. But Janie does not love her husband, so she will not compare him to something aesthetically pleasing.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Journal #2: How does the setting affect the text?
The setting of the story is very significant for characterization and atmosphere. Janie's grandmother, having grown up a slave, had no hopes of having a better future. When she had another chance of raising a child, she wanted to make sure that Janie had as many opportunities as possible, and a respectable future. The setting was post-Civil War, at a time when African Americans were discriminated against and many were not given opportunities like an education. Having assumptions that a black girl will not amount to much is a very significant idea in this novel, and the idea is present because of the time period. Janie's grandmother put into Janie's head the idea that the only way to better herself would be to marry well. But Janie may never be able to find happiness, because she wants to marry someone she loves instead of a man that is in a relatively good position in society.
The setting of the story is very significant for characterization and atmosphere. Janie's grandmother, having grown up a slave, had no hopes of having a better future. When she had another chance of raising a child, she wanted to make sure that Janie had as many opportunities as possible, and a respectable future. The setting was post-Civil War, at a time when African Americans were discriminated against and many were not given opportunities like an education. Having assumptions that a black girl will not amount to much is a very significant idea in this novel, and the idea is present because of the time period. Janie's grandmother put into Janie's head the idea that the only way to better herself would be to marry well. But Janie may never be able to find happiness, because she wants to marry someone she loves instead of a man that is in a relatively good position in society.
Journal #1: How is the narration different from the dialect?
The narration is different from the dialect because it reads like someone very educated, and the dialect of the characters are written like uneducated southern African Americans after the Civil War. It's an interesting contrast to go from " ' Ah'm tryin' to soak some uh de tiredness and de dirt outa mah feet' " to " The rose of the world was breathing out smell. It followed her through all her waking moments and caressed her in her sleep." Many literary techniques are used in the narration, like metaphor, imagery and symbols. The dialect uses a lot of slang that is difficult to follow unless it is said out loud. The narration seems like almost a foil to the dialect in order to accentuate each writing's qualities, or it could be Janie's true thoughts that she can not express because of her restrictions of her education and dialect. This may be way off though! But the narrator does not seem like a person that does not have a significant part of the story. Maybe other authors intend for the narrators to be disconnected to the story, but this narration seems to take a more important role, like when describing Janie's spring romance.
The narration is different from the dialect because it reads like someone very educated, and the dialect of the characters are written like uneducated southern African Americans after the Civil War. It's an interesting contrast to go from " ' Ah'm tryin' to soak some uh de tiredness and de dirt outa mah feet' " to " The rose of the world was breathing out smell. It followed her through all her waking moments and caressed her in her sleep." Many literary techniques are used in the narration, like metaphor, imagery and symbols. The dialect uses a lot of slang that is difficult to follow unless it is said out loud. The narration seems like almost a foil to the dialect in order to accentuate each writing's qualities, or it could be Janie's true thoughts that she can not express because of her restrictions of her education and dialect. This may be way off though! But the narrator does not seem like a person that does not have a significant part of the story. Maybe other authors intend for the narrators to be disconnected to the story, but this narration seems to take a more important role, like when describing Janie's spring romance.
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