Analysis Of A Christmas Carol Essay Example

Analysis Of A Christmas Carol Essay I think this is very noble of him because Bob Cratchitt wouldve been very grateful to him and this also would have changed the rest of the Cratchitts family, especially Mrs Cratchitt (who expressed her great dislike of Scrooge on Christmas day) perception of him. However Scrooge does not want this glory because it defeats the object of sending the turkey he wishes to remain anonymous. He also learns that Christmas is a time for forgiveness and for being with family. He went to church, and walked about the streets, and watched the people hurrying to and fro, and patted the children on the head, and questioned beggars, and looked and looked down into the kitchens of houses, and up to the window; and found that everything could yield him pleasure. He already knows that there is no profit in celebrating Christmas, however he now realises that this is not the point and he should appreciate the joy that the Christmas season conveys. He finds delight in everything, even things that previously vexed him. He never dreamed that any walk that anything could give him so much happiness. Now with this quote it sounds pretty pointless with a lack of emphasis yet if you look it will become apparent that the little things are beginning to affect his beliefs on Christmas and what its consequences are (not in a bad way). Furthermore, it was showing that he would never even dream of changing his actions towards Christmas so therefore with that, it obviously shows with the dramatic information he has had inflicted on him, has really motivated him for the Christmas season. We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis Of A Christmas Carol specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis Of A Christmas Carol specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Analysis Of A Christmas Carol specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer I think in general Dickens is trying to tell the Victorian audience that it is possible to change for the better. He shows this through Scrooge when he pays a visit to Fred, his nephew. He was at home in five minutes. Nothing could be heartier Wonderful party, wonderful games, wonderful unanimity, won-der-ful happiness! Here I think Scrooge is in disbelief that his nephew still wants to know him and doesnt denounce him because of what he said earlier when his nephew visited him in his office. And so we learn that there is change in everybody and sometimes it can be a surprise.

The Zodiac Killer Story Literature Essay

The Zodiac Killer Story Literature Essay The Zodiac Killer Story Literature Essay Sample The Zodiac Killer Story Literature Essay Sample Stories about serial killers have always stirred the blood of the readers; very often policemen were able to catch the killers, but sometimes the murderers managed to evade the legal retribution. Zodiac was one of the most famous uncaught killers. This maniac is memorable for a series of mocking letters to the local press accompanied with mysterious coded messages. Usually, a standard maniac face is an explicit notorious sociopath with a moral trauma received in childhood. This cruel killer chose a nickname â€Å"Zodiac†; he mentioned it in a series of mocking letters sent to the local newspapers. The cryptograms, which, according to Zodiac, revealed his identity, were applied to the letters. There were four cryptograms in total, and the police managed to decipher only one. For nearly 25 years he held at bay the entire San Francisco, and for over 37 years the Zodiac Killer escaped prosecution from law enforcement due to a combination of factors (Farmer, 2007, p.29). This paper will analyze the behavior of a cruel killer Zodiac and describe his murders. The date of Zodiac’s birthday is unknown, so his story begins from the date of the first murder 20 December 1968. Butterfield (2012) relates that that day, late in the evening college students – a 16-year-old Betty Lou Jensen and a 17-year-old David Faraday were on their first date in the car on a small parking lot on the edge of the highway in the vicinity of the lake near the town of Vallejo (CA). There they were caught by death, which came in the form of a man with a gun. David died in a cabin by a single bullet, Betty managed to jump out of the car and tried to run away – her body stricken with 5 bullets was found in more than 10 meters from the car. The traces of sexual violence were absent. The bodies were found a few minutes after the murder, but policemen were unable to detain the murderer, who escaped in his car. Six months later, in July 1969, another murder was committed. Darlene Ferrin and Michael Mageau parked their car when someone came up to the v ehicle. A man came out, shined his flashlight, and shot them both. Then he got into his car and drove away. Ferrin died, but Mageau survived and was able to tell about it. The very next day, a man called the police and said that he was a murderer. September 27, 1969, the students Bryan Hartnell and Cecelia Shepard spent time at a picnic by the Berryessa Lake. A man in a hood and black glasses approached them. He identified himself as an escaped convict and, threatening with a pistol, forced Cecilia to tie Bryan. Later he tied Cecilia, took out a knife and inflicted many knife wounds to the couple. Soon, he called the police himself to tell about crime with ridicule. Shepard died of her injuries, but Hartnell survived (Butterfield, 2012). In October 11, 1969 a taxi driver Paul Stine was killed in his car by the passenger; Zodiac cleaned all his traces by a piece of the victim’s shirt (Butterfield, 2012). Three teenagers saw him and made up a description of the killer, but he was never caught. On the night of March 22, 1970, being seven months pregnant, Kathleen Johns with her little daughter was driving to her mother in Modesto. The driver behind her stopped and signaled. The man told her that something had gone wrong with the car and offered his help. Kathleen and her daughter got into the car. The man drove more than hour without stopping; then he said he was going to kill them. At an intersection, Kathleen and her daughter jumped out of the car and hid in a field. The man tried to find them but then he gave up and drove away. Jones got to the police and confirmed that they were kidnapped by a man who looked like a sketch, drawn on the description of the murderer by Paul Stein. Speaking to the authorities with the help of reporters, Zodiac taunted police in inaction in his letters and ciphers. In total, the editors of various newspapers in California received about 20 letters and postcards from Zodiac. When investigating cases like the Zodiac Killer case, it is important to stick to the evidence derived from what the serial killer provided publicly to the police and the newspapers. The longer that a case such as this goes unsolved, the more theories about the case are heaped upon older theories to eventually create a zone of silence away from the truth (p.29). The investigation of Zodiac’s figure continued for many years. Zodiac disappeared for a while and reappeared after some years. Sometimes, the police began to doubt that it was Zodiac who committed the murder, not some imitator. Policemen put forward different versions and found more and more suspects. It makes no sense to analyze each of them, but some versions were unique and worth mentioning. According to one version, Zodiac was not one person, but an organized gang in which different people killed. Actually, this version had only one advantage – it compensated the deficiencies of the version of one killer, whose track could not be found. According to another version Zodiac did not stop his activities, and retrained into the murderer of Santa Rosa (a town in California), who killed 14 girls in the years 1972-1975 and also stayed uncaught. Now only enthusiasts were involved in the searches. They exchanged information and versions on their website and even filmed a documentary Hunting the Zodiac dedicated to their searches. The exact number of victims of Zodiac is unknown. In his letters, he took the blame for seven murders. Another thirty killings are similar to his crimes by handwriting†, but there is no evidence that they were committed by Zodiac, not imitators. The most famous serial killers of America are the subject of a mass cult, along with Hollywood actors or singers. One of the creators of the American pop culture, Andy Warhol once said that everyone can get their 15 minutes of fame. So, why they cannot be provided for a mass murderer? Autographs, biographies, invariably becoming bestsellers, documentari es and feature films, TV shows, interviews rating – all these made people like Charles Manson, Ted Bundy or Jeffrey Damner no less recognizable personalities than Mick Jagger and Bob Dylan. Zodiac was the first killer who received from the hands of newsmen his 15 minutes of fame and stubbornly refused to give them back. Encrypted messages of the psychopath looked at the reader from the front pages of all major newspapers; the maniac infected with his madness through the streams of respected radio stations. Of course, all that should be attributed not only to Zodiac but also to the people he killed. Newspaper circulations and ratings rose skywards steadily. The case of Zodiac was the first such case in the United States when the killer surrounded himself with glory. He committed a crime and wrote about it in the newspapers, trying to intimidate the entire community. However, he seemed to transform into a comic book anti-hero: he wore masks, invented a name for himself, sent encrypted messages, and called the police after murders. He behaved very confidently as if he had not fear of punishment. However, the police and journalists undervalued him. Zodiac tried to create an image of an unbalanced psychopath. He said that he liked killing people because it is funny. This is funnier than killing wild animals in the forest because the man is the most dangerous animal. He tossed evidence to police (for example, a glove in a taxi). Also, he threatened to shoot children, sent drawings of bombs, deliberately left witnesses alive in order to make fun of policemen. In his letters, he liked to count the victims. Zodiac â€Å"helped† police in their searches, knowing that they would not reach him. The matter was further complicated by the fact that real crazies called the hotline, calling themselves Zodiac. The following features are specific to the attacks committed by Zodiac: the victims were young people; very often they were couples; the attacks occurred on weekends or public holidays; the criminal acted in the dark or in twilight; robbery or sexual underlying reason did not motivate the crimes; the killer used a variety of weapons; the offender tended to claim the crimes were committed by him; the victim was in the car or near it; and finally all the crimes were committed by the water or objects whose names are associated with water. Without any exaggeration Zodiac can be called Jack the Ripper of the 20th century – it is the most famous uncaught serial killer of the past century. Five dead and two injured victims belong to his credit. Zodiac is the mythical and monumental figure that demands an exclusive approach. His personality causes interest to criminologists and fans; they create versions and produce books trying to understand his secrets. Zodiac committed each murder with a new type of weapon. He wrote 26 letters to the police and the San Francisco Chronicle editorial. The most amazing thing is that so far no one managed to prove conclusively that all the murders are attributed to Zodiac and the letters and speeches on the radio were the acts of one and the same person.

Preparing and exam taking Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Preparing and exam taking - Research Paper Example Preparation for exams starts during the first class. The classes that the student attend, various contributions made in class by the students, and assignments that students complete will help in preparing for any questions that an examiner may set in the future (Kesselman-Turkel & Peterson, 2010). The semester involves the addition of information to a students’ knowledge base. Essay questions normally involve information that one may have found irrelevant during class, which could be used as a supporting point to the thesis. Students who are involved in class have to cram less than those who skip class. Students should also note the topics that the lecturer finds interesting. Not surprisingly, the specific topics noted make up a significant proportion of the exam that the lecturer administers (Kesselman-Turkel & Peterson, 2010). Thus, it is important to note the topics in which the lecturer spends more time discussing. This will aid students in remembering important highlights when preparing for an exam. The students should also keep their syllabus. Losing the course syllabus is a big mistake since it is an important paper. It aids the students in organizing the information that they take in and will give the students ideas regarding the topics that the exam will emphasize. The syllabus will also act as a guide when studying for the exam. The students should also add notes to the syllabus as the lessons progresses, circling themes, topics, and books that appear most likely to be contained within in the exam (Kesselman-Turkel & Peterson, 2010). In addition, participation in class is a good way of preparing for exams. It aids the students in being better acquainted with the course material, as well as letting the lecturer know the areas that students are interested while in class. Test grades seem to reflect one’s attendance in class and the

Religion in America Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Religion in America - Essay Example In 1776, this religious vigor led to rebel of Americans against their colonizers, the Great Britain. In forming governments, at both the state and national levels following these rebellions, American political leaders shared the conviction that religion was indispensable in maintaining the republican institutions. The efforts of these United States’ founders to define the significance of religion during this revolutionary time helped in shaping the American’s future leadership within institutions and communal organizations. Through the same spirit of transformation, religious transformation that took places in different parts of the Europe also affected the lives of African Americans quite significantly. The foundation, creation, and development of purely black churches were the greatest achievements in the reconstruction era. African-Americans conceptualized this reconstruction as freedom (Ebel 24). Notably, churches were the first institutions to be managed and controlled entirely by the black community. Just before the American civil war, many black slaves had secret religious meetings that were held off the presence of their masters/whites. Nonetheless, some free blacks formed part of biracial congregations that were controlled by whites and in most of these congregations; blacks were to sit behind whites during the service (Ebel 200). Blacks sharing churches with a white was a predominant practice in the south and was introduced by the Anglican ministers. Emancipation made blacks withdraw from these white managed institutions. They pulled resources and initiated their own churches.

Social Unrest, Political Disorder and the State Essay

Social Unrest, Political Disorder and the State - Essay Example Such easy formation came as a result of the isolation which Ireland had due to its geographical location. Just like any organized crime group or a terrorist group, the IRA has a method of operating in a hierarchical manner with exclusive membership and explicit rules (Mahan and O’Neil 1998, p.6) Although, IRA does not consider itself to be an organized criminal group in any way, neither as a mafia of any sort, but when analyzed closely, it does appear to have a historical background of being involved in criminal activities and terrorism. But they have evolved from merely a rural peasant protection group to a secret society which constantly challenged against the status quo. According to Mackenzie, there are different agendas which secret societies have, ranging from spiritual, moralistic, patriotic, and political to criminal activities (Mackenzie 1967). The IRA has experienced a similar process of evolution over the years and operated in a corresponding manner in each of the c ases as per circumstances. Furthermore, the IRA shares organizational characteristics which befit only criminal business groups with much focus diverted towards their political goals (Bell, 1997). For the purposes of analyzing the IRA and its methodology, ethnographical research method is deemed to be most appropriate. According to Hobsbawm’s observation (1969), in any oppressed society, there is always to be found a minority group which is willing to devote itself to rebelling against the status quo. In that, some people will choose positive methods and some will be inclined towards illegal means to achieve the same end. One feature that stands out in the IRA is that it was basically formed to raise a solemn voice against oppressing conditions of the peasants in Ireland and the high degree of feudal practices to suppress the masses There was massive unrest especially after the forceful 1800 Act of Union was passed by Westminster to create United Kingdom, which ended up bindi ng Ireland under its rule. This is a significant curve at the point of which the peasant protection group was compelled to take political action (Toolis, 1995). As there increased the number of peasants willing to fight for the political cause they all believed in, the need for more organized formation arose and hence, the IRA was formed. ‘The Whiteboys’ and ‘the Oakboys’ along with ‘phoenix’ were a precursor in Ireland for forming such hierarchical groups for cohesion and organization with enhanced sophistication. It became a sub-culture within a sub-culture (Lambart, 2010). Something that gives them authority is their ability to monopolize violence in their respective communities. Traditionally, Ireland is known for its familial unit and camaraderie, hence the rise of the IRA has its roots in such a background. Those who were out of any secure means for livelihood sought shelter in such organizations for mutual protection (Collins, 1986). The modus operandi of the IRA depends on the kinship and friendship networks that it has developed through practicing its hold on its community. If there is kept no check from the government’s side on their activities, they spread their values and ideologies very easily. Even there had been such fortunate historical events in favor of the IRA where their sub-culture has proliferated with changing

The Origin Of Man Is The Subject Religion Essay

The Origin Of Man Is The Subject Religion Essay What is man?   asked David in his Psalms thousands of years ago.  It is striking that the relevance of this question has not decreased in the twentieth and twenty first centuries.  Whether a man is only an animal or, maybe, he is just a complex combination of chemical compounds, or, maybe, he is much more than all this, some great creation? The desire to know the history of mans origin is quite natural, as people have not always existed on the Earth.  That is why, the problem of Creation and understanding of human nature is central problem of people of all ages.  This question can be considered from different perspectives: from the standpoint of theology, religion, anthropology, philosophy and history. Views and ideas on the origins of humanity The origin of  man  is the subject of  speculation  since ancient times and  led to the emergence  of  various  myths in different people,  who believed that  the first humans  were created by gods from stones,  animals, etc.  The ancient  Greek thinkers  had different views on the origin of man:  some  believed that man  is eternal, second believed that he was born from marine  sediments.  With  the spread of  Christianity people  accepted the idea that  man was  created  and  inspired  by God. Many people believed  that a man  is  the most highly developed  animal,  the top of  the evolution of the animal  world, he  is mortal,  and  his  life  has no  higher  meaning.  Others believe  that  man  is not  the top,  but  only  a very  selfish  animal  who tends  to  pleasure and enjoyment. So, humans belong to the natural world, until the physical and chemical processes in their body depend on nature.   If we consider the philosophical approach, then we need first to say that in humans there is an element that is above the natural world.  There are different views on this, as, for example, Greek philosophers said this element was mind, and Aristotle proposed a definition of man as a rational animal.  (Stevenson 2004) But  most  important  is  the fact  of  human  consciousness that  elevates  him  above the natural world.  Ã‚  Human consciousness is ascension  of naturalism in the understanding of man, since he is not only a natural being, but also a spiritual being. (Wilson 2004) In the XVIII century, many thinkers (such as Lord Monboddo, Herder, Rousseau, Kant, etc.) suggested the evolution of man from the great apes in savages, and later in modern humans.  In a more clear way this idea was developed by Lamarck in the beginning of the XIX century in his Zoological Philosophy.   Later t theory  of development and evolution  in various  forms  has been  to explain  various scientists. Those who support this theory believe that man was not created by anyone, but occurred in the development of lower organisms.  For example, the French scientist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck said that some species of monkeys, under unfavorable conditions of existence, were to descend from the trees and acquired the habit of walking on two feet. Bipedalism led to strong changes of the body, and quadrumanous monkey turned into bipedal, who gradually settled around the Earth. Gradually in new species began to developed the consciousness (Bowler, 2003). The theory of evolution has become one of the most prevalent theories of human origins.  Ã‚  This theory was developed by Ch. Darwin, who introduced the history of development of the organic world of the Earth carried by the interaction of three main factors: variability, heredity and natural selection.  Evolutionary theory suggests that man evolved from apes, being changed under the influence of external factors and natural selection. The evolutionary theory of anthropogenesis is supported with a large number of facts paleontological, archaeological, biological, genetic, cultural, psychological, and others.  However, many of these proofs may be interpreted ambiguously, allowing opponents of evolutionary theory to challenge it. Biblical  Creation of  the world The Bible tells that a man was created in Gods will and in accordance with His plan (Gen.1: 26).  In the all-powerful Word of God was hidden a great creative force to create the world, and then a men.  When God created a man he said: Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in His own image, in  The Image Of God  created He him; male and female created He them. (Genesis 1:26-27 KJV) A man was created in a special act, and, unlike the animals, in the image of God, that means a man is intelligent, free, creative and moral personality. Like God, man is gifted with the following qualities: Creativity (Genesis 2:20); The mind and the ability to cognition (Genesis 2 :19-20, Col.1: 9; Rim.12: 2;); Willy (Luk.23: 25; 2Petr.1: 21); The ability to choose and evaluate (Genesis 2: 17; 13:11); The ability to love (Genesis 2: 24). ( McFarland 2009) A man  is the image  and  likeness of  God, is  a spiritual being,  rising  over  the natural  and  social  world,  and  able  to transform it and  dominate  over  it. In Genesis 2 we can  learn more about how  man and  woman were created  : And The Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul And The Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him And The Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which The Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. (Genesis 2:7,18,21-23) That is,  the biblical  interpretation of  creation of man  is the most  common  that is primarily  due to  the important  role of  religion  in  peoples lives. Biblical  Creation  is very  important for  people, as it  defines the  essence of  man:  Man  is not  just  a body, and  he  was created  in  the image  of  God and for eternal  communion with  God.  This means  that  people are  moral  and  spiritual  creatures with  the ability  to trust,  to choose  to love, etc.  Creation  is the basis  for  our  worship  to God and  His  worship:  Let them praise the  name of the  Lord,  for he commanded, and they were created  (Psalm  148:5).  Thus,  worship  is a gratitude  to the Creator. ( McFarland 2009) At the present  time,  we can  hear  that the question  of creation of humanity is asked rather  strictly: either the  idea of Creation or  the theory of evolution.  However,  such a  statement  seems  incorrect, since  many modern  scholars  note  that the  idea  of Creation  of humanity by God,  the Creator, does not deny  the scientific theories. The religious world does not contradict the scientific, that can be proved by the fact that many prominent world scientists were deeply religious people: for example, Copernicus, Isaac Newton, Mikhail Lomonosov, Pavlov, Albert Einstein.  That is, the science also does not deny the idea of the Creation of humanity by God. Conclusion Each of the ideas, assumptions and theories about the origin of humanity has a right to exist and has its supporters.  Yet, the biblical Creation of the world and man is the most important for people, regardless of their scientific views.  The idea of mans creation by God is the basis of religion and faith of millions of people, the basis of their ideology and view on all the existence of humanity.

The Role of the Proof in Math Essay example -- Mathematics Mathematica

The Role of the Proof in Math The notion of proof has long played a key role in the study of mathematics. It is in my opinion the role of proof that separates mathematics from the sciences and other fields of study. It is the existence of proofs that give mathematicians the confidence that their work is credible and thus allows them to continue to build upon prior work without the need to second guess what has previously been accomplished. Based upon this observation, it becomes natural to ask the questions pertaining to the use of proof in learning and understanding mathematics. If the concept of proof is so important to the field of mathematics, then is it possible that by writing proofs and studying proofs that an individual will be better equipped to understand the mathematics for which the proofs pertain? And if this is possible then when should a person be first exposed to proofs and at what level? In this paper I will give my views pertaining to these questions, as well as, a few more of my views pertaining to some other topics related to these questions. Before discussing the virtues of proofs as a means of learning and understanding mathematics, I feel that it is first necessary to begin with a brief discussion of the functions of proof within mathematics. Following I will give a list of the functions of proof that I have comprised from three sources (Hanna [2], Knuth [3], Tucker [6]): 1.verification, the act of arguing that a statement is true 2.explanation,providing reasons for why a statement is true, which in turn may lead to understanding 3.systematization,organizing statements and definitions into a system of axioms, lemmas, theorems, etc. 4.discovery,creating knowledge and new results .. ...ducation, V178 N1, pp. 35-45 [2]Hanna, Gila (2000), â€Å"Proof, Explanation and Exploration: An Overview,† Educational Studies in Mathematics, V44, pp. 5-23 [3]Knuth, Eric (2002), â€Å"Secondary School Mathematics Teachers Conceptions of Proof,† Journal for Research in Mathematics Education, V33, pp.379-405 [4]Lester, Frank K. (1975), â€Å"Developmental Aspects of Children’s Ability to Understand Mathematical Proof,† Journal for Research in Mathematics Education, V6 N1, pp. 14-25 [5]Selden, Annie and Selden, John (2003), â€Å"Validations of Proofs Considered as Texts: Can Undergraduates Tell Whether an Argument Proves a Theorem?,† Journal for Research in Mathematics Education, V34 N1, pp. 4-36 [6]Tucker, Thomas (1999), â€Å"On the Role of Proof in Calculus Courses,† Contemporary Issues in Mathematics Education, MSRI Publications, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK

Heroic styles of Beowulf and Sir Gawain Essay

Throughout history, different cultures have held different virtues in the highest regard. The Anglo-Saxons, like the anonymous scop of the poem Beowulf, valued strength and courage over any other quality. On the other hand, the earliest English people, like the poet of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, respected honor and the basic codes of chivalry over all else. Both Beowulf and Sir Gawain, therefore, display the most favored qualities of their people: Beowulf by defeating monsters, performing great feats of courage, and telling of his deeds; Gawain by being loyal, brave, and honest. Both sets of qualities are displayed throughout each tale. In Beowulf, written in about the fourth century AD, the hero’s first major test is to fight a huge monster. In doing so, he proves his physical abilities, and thus establishes his hero/ leader status. To be the best, you have to be the strongest, and he says â€Å"Fate saves/ the living when they drive away death by themselves!† (572-73), showing how much Beowulf relies on his physical strength. On the other hand, Gawain’s first test is not physical, but psychological. He is forced to prove his loyalty to Arthur, by offering his life to the Green Knight. He does not claim to be the best, or the strongest, and in fact claims: â€Å"I am the weakest, I am aware† (part 16). Gawain is displaying his modesty, and the medieval belief that a person should be humble about himself. This displays the immediate difference between the two cultures. For the Anglo-Saxons, if you wanted people to know you’re a hero, you tell them you’re a hero. For Gawain, and the Knights of the Round Table, they must act humbler, in order to appeal to their Christian beliefs. However, both societies do require their heroes to display some similar traits, the most common being courage. Gawain must show how brave he is by making a long and difficult journey to fulfill his oath, and die at the hands of the Green Knight. Beowulf must show his courage by fighting off large monsters, even to the last day of his life. â€Å"Why should I be dismayed? /Of doom the fair or drear/ by a man must be assayed† (24) shows how Gawain believes a hero should conduct himself, with dignity and honor. He does not believe that journeying to his death will be such a bad thing, since it will allow him to keep his honor intact. This sounds very similar to â€Å"Let me live  in greatness/ and courage, or here in this hall welcome my death,† Beowulf’s concept of bravery. Beowulf believes that either he is going to win, and kill Grendel, or Grendel will win and kill him. Either way, it is up to wyrd, his Fate. The resemblance continues with the theme of generos ity. Both try their very hardest to not simply keep all their earned wealth (or lack thereof) to themselves. Beowulf, upon receiving heaping treasures from Hrothgar, promptly dispenses it among his men. He even â€Å"rewarded the boat’s watchman/ who had stayed behind, with a sword that had hammered/ gold wound on its handle,† (1901-03) showing how he treats all his men as equals. The watchman’s job, to him, was just as important as all the other warriors that actually traveled with him. Similarly, Sir Gawain tells the lord of the house that he appreciated the hospitality of the host by remarking â€Å"I would give you some guerdon gladly, were I able† (82) immediately before departing. He says this to show the host his graciousness, but also displays his generosity, displaying the similarities between the two cultures. Finally, each has an opposite view of their importance in society. Beowulf believes that the best thing someone can do is become the most famous, and to have your name live on forever. â€Å"Fame after death/ is the noblest of goals† (lines 1388-89). For him to die in battle is the single most important thing he can do, to ensure he lives on in legend. On the other hand, Gawain thinks that he must do his part, and better the whole of Camelot. â€Å"Since this affair is so foolish that it nowise befits you,† (part 16) says that Gawain is willing to sacrifice his own life to save his king. He thinks he is the least of the Knights, and the most nonessential of them, and therefore the best candidate. Furthermore, â€Å"I would fainer fall dead than fail in my errand† (42) shows his dedication to the task he set out for. The two characters are in stark contrast between their concepts of self-worth. As you can see, the Anglo-Saxon and early English people held widely varying notions of what a hero/ leader figure should be. For the anonymous scop that wrote Beowulf, battle, glory, and fame were paramount; to the unknown singer of Sir Gawain, honor, honesty, and loyalty to one’s country had top priority.

Analysis of two different film interpretations of Macbeth Essays

Analysis of two different film interpretations of Macbeth Essays Analysis of two different film interpretations of Macbeth Paper Analysis of two different film interpretations of Macbeth Paper Essay Topic: Macbeth The famous Shakespearean work of Macbeth deals with issues that are relevant to any society in any age. It explores the far reaching effects of one mans ambition, from the total transformation of Macbeths character. From a national hero to a nation-wide terror in his pursuit of power. Although Macbeth is set in Medieval Scotland, the issues that are dealt with, the supernatural, Ambition and Tyranny are still just as relevant in our society now as they were in Shakespearean England. The relevance to todays society was displayed in the modern interpretation Macbeth on the estate. Where contemporary ideas of the work was but across while still using the Shakespearean backbone. We compared this version to a far more traditional interpretation directed by Roman Polanski, filmed in the 1970s The modern version of Macbeth Macbeth on the estate opens on a desolate wasteland. In the background we can make out the large shadows of desolate tower blocks. Through the mist we can see a dark shadow walking toward us. The shadow emerges out of the mist. It is Macduff. Immediately we notice the changes the director has made to this opening scene. The first difference from the original play is the use of Macduff opening the play instead of the three witches. To understand the directors decision we must remember that four hundred years ago witchcraft was a major part of life and each year hundreds of witches were being burnt at the stake for practising the dark arts. Nowadays witchcraft does not have the same appeal to the audience who would watch this version and we a forced to conclude that Macduff was used to grab the audiences attention. A factor that was used to grab the audiences attention was the colour of Macduffs skin, black. The directors decision to make Macduff black is purely and simply to captivate the audiences mind. The use of Macduff as a leading character could stimulate people from ethnic minorities to show an interest in the film. By giving these people a major film character they may be able to understand the relevance of the play to themselves. The directors decision could have also been due to the large number of African and Jamaican immigrants living in the council flats on the estates such as Ladywood where this film was made. Towards the end of Macduffs speech the ghostly music and the foggy atmosphere lifts and we are catapulted into a violent robbery at the Thane of Cawdors house. At the house we get a glimpse of what the Thane is watching on television, the lottery. The directors use of the national lottery shows the social hardship and poverty that many families have to go through on the estate. And it seems as though, by playing the lottery and winning a fortune it is the only way out of the hardship. We only get a short glimpse of the fight scene, but from what we see and the accompanying fast paced music the director chooses to use gives us the impression that the fight is both brutal and savage. Once the robbery is complete, Macbeth reports back to Duncan in the local pub. Macbeth greets Duncan with a friendly pat on the back, this very informal relationship between Macbeth and Duncan symbolises their friendship and trust of one another. Duncan too is very informal, his loud, colourful beer stained shirt is only fastened by a couple of buttons, revealing his bloated stomach, from the beginning of this scene we are meant to dislike Duncan. This is very different from the much-liked Duncan in the original play. Although we the audience dislike Duncan. The crowd in the pub appears friendly with him. They all laugh when he tells them a joke. Although it is not clear whether the crowd show genuine respect for him personally or are forced to show respect to him due to his immense power and influence over the estate and the people living there. This power and influence that Duncan has is also abused, later that night, a party is held over at Macbeths house to celebrate his new position as Thane of Cawdor. Duncan, Banquet, Macduff and his family turn up late evening and bring a large amount of beer. Duncan immediately shows his dominance over females, defiantly not by charm but perhaps by strength by pinning her up against a wall he starts to pet and stoke her. Lady Macbeth turns away and forces Duncan to realise he cannot charm Lady Macbeth by using brute force. The directors decision to make Duncan appear possessive over women makes the audience feel more bitter towards him, and the decision by lady Macbeth prompts us to think she is a very strong willed character. Something she needs later on in the play. At the end of the night, Duncan is very obviously drunk. He is helped up, and taken to bed by Lady Macbeth. Duncan flops into bed next to a young black girl, probably in her early twenties. A contrast to Duncans age of middle to late thirties. The directors decision to make Duncan sleep with a young girl highlights the problems of prostitution on the estate, and Duncans desire to posses a women by sleeping around. Moments later he his murdered. Duncans funeral is very small. Only Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, Banquet, Macduff and a few others attend. The large crowd of supporters seen at the pub have all disappeared. And there are only a few onlookers. The directors decision for the crowd of supporters to disappear is a social issue in todays society. Nowadays society seems to have a lust for money. Wherever that money is, thats where the crowds are, and when the money disappears the crowd does as well. This is what happened to Duncan; he was lulled into a false sense of security by the large crowds at the pub that appeared to protect him from the outside world, which may have been true. But they could not protect him from a man inside who he trusts, Macbeth. Macbeths crime, murdering Duncan could have been classed as a crime of passion. Macbeth was certainly very jealous of Duncans position as king, and with Macbeths wife, Lady Macbeths Charms it is not long before Macbeth is convinced to kill Duncan. We first see Lady Maceth in her house; she is listening to an answer machine message of Macbeth telling her he is now Thane of Cawdor. The decision by the director to make Lady Macbeth get the message by answer phone instead of messenger is purely society based, nowadays, nearly every household in Britain has a telephone. And it is now commonplace to send E-mails or talk to someone on a telephone rather than talk to him or her face to face. Just after receiving this message, Lady Macbeth walks to another part of the house, a small childs room. We are not entirely sure why she enters the room; it may be that Macbeths phone call has stirred up some forgotten memories. The room is clean, and appears regularly cleaned. But as soon as Lady Macbeth enters the room, the music changes. All of a sudden we hear a lullaby played on a childs toy, this tune. This tune, although very simple, stirs a lot of emotion, as we the audience imagine a young child in that room, there is no child in this room, only Lady Macbeth. The use of a wide angel lens is effective. As Lady Macbeth is in the centre of the picture, the camera captures a large angle of the room. And it is as though no one belongs in this room, as it seems so unused. The bright colours of the wallpaper and the bed make it contrast with what Lady Macbeth is wearing, and it makes it look as though Lady Macbeth does not belong here. The importance of children to Lady Macbeth is portrayed in a number of scenes in the play. At the kareoke, Lady Macbeth is holding a child. Also, the quantity of pregnancy testing kits she owns show that until a short time ago, she and Macbeth were still trying to have a child of their own. Lady Macbeths influence over Macbeth in this version is different to the original play. In the original play, Lady Macbeth does influence Macbeth through her appearance. But in Macbeth on the estate her influence over Macbeth is far more sexual. The main scene where this is most obvious is in Lady Macbeths and Macbeths Bedroom, during the party. Downstairs while everyone else is drinking themselves stupid, Lady Macbeth is busy convincing Macbeth to kill Duncan. Lady Macbeth is wearing a very low and revealing top. She is talking to him in a very low voice, all the time; she is making him agree to her plans to kill Duncan, by wooing him with her appearance. It works, Macbeth agrees to her plans. But at the last minute, Macbeth forgets a vital part of the plan, to wipe the guards knives in Duncans blood. Macbeth is a psychological wreck, so Lady Macbeth goes on her own and wipes the blades. This shows she is a very strong willed character, and as previously, she said the famous line unsex me now she now supposedly now has the strength of a man and is able to do more demanding tasks and is more prepared for them. This mental readiness does not last long, as soon Lady Macbeth turns insane. Convinced she can see blood on her hands. To rid herself of the guilt, she repeatedly washes her hands, trying to rid herself of the guilt. At one point, she also believes she has a child, and we can also see her tucking it up into bed. This was not used in the original play. But the director of Macbeth on the estate decides to use it in the film. The use of this makes Lady Macbeth appear more insane, as she has always wanted a child, and now she is imagining it. Soon, the once psychologically stable Lady Macbeth turn suicidal, and throws herself off the top of a tower block, the directors use of cameras comes into play here. As Lady Macbeth jumps, time appears to slow down and she falls much slower. I believe the director did this to make the audience reflect on Lady Macbeths life. When she finally does hit the ground, she is surrounded by onlookers of small children. This is another social issue of the estate. That young children are subjected to the horrors of death when they are as young as eight years old. It seems somewhat odd that Lady Macbeth wanted a child so much when she knew it would be subjected to such hardships on the estate. The end of this film was, to sum it up disappointing. For a film as fast paced and action packed I expected more. There was also no army and no mention of Birnam wood. The film ends with Macduff killing Macbeth with a single shot from a pistol. The directors decision to end the film with a bullet and not a sword or knife is another social issue, as it is now possible to kill someone without getting your hands dirty. The decision could have also been for suspense. As the last thing we expected was Macduff to walk in with a gun. I for one expected a fight between Macbeths supporters and Fleances supporters. Having said that I thoroughly enjoyed this film although I did think the end was disappointing. I will now compare the contemporary version of Macbeth, Macbeth on the estate with the more traditional version of the play. This version of Macbeth was directed by Roman Polanski. This version was produced in the 1970s when special effects were lacking. I will compare four parts and characters of this play, with Macbeth on the estate. These parts will be: the beginning, the character Lady Macbeth, the character Duncan and the end of the play. In each case, In each case I will try to compare: the use of camera angles, costumes, surroundings, sound and lighting. This version of Macbeth is very traditional and the contrast to Macbeth on the estate is shown in the opening scene. As Macbeth on the estate opened on a desolate urban wasteland with Macduff, instead of the witches speaking. In this version the three witches are on the wasteland, burying a hand, a noose and a dagger. The three witches are very stereotypical views of witches, old, wrinkled skin and dark clothes. That hobble out of the mist. This stereotypical view of the witches is common in Shakespeares time. When one of the ways in telling one was a witch or not was by appearance. Although witches are no longer as important to us today as they were back in the Middle Ages. The director uses them to produce a sense of mystery and uncertainty. Another of the directors tools of making the viewer fell emotion is lighting. In this version, the director uses lighting far better than the director of Macbeth on the estate and his well lit scene. In Polanskis version, the lack of lighting is used very well. As the darkness hides the witches faces and makes them appear more mysterious. Another lighting effect is the use of fog and mist. Again this helps the audience to relate to the witches more. As the fog and mist helps to block out most of the light on the set. This improves the atmosphere. The music too creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and confusion. As the sounds of the low instruments played to a very disorganised tune creates confusion and the wasteland. In fact, the only thing the director has changed is where the scene is set, on a beach. The directors decision to set the opening scene on a beach is rather baffling, as there seems to be no justification for his decision. I myself am forced to conclude that the only viable reason the director had, to set the scene on a beach was due to the fog effect, as early morning, the sea produces a mist that can be used to make the atmosphere more still and eerie. Towards the end of the scene, the fog thickens and the witches hobble off into the distance. The fog then slowly turns red. This is very effective, as the colour of the fog and the sound of battle make us think the battle was very fierce and bloody. We first see Duncan in his castle; he is overseeing the execution of the previous Thane of Cawdor. He is being hung. This is a contrast from Macbeth on the estate where the Thane was killed by a petrol bomb being thrown into the car in which he was sat. Being hung is a more traditional way of executing a traitor, rather than blowing them up. This traditional style is reflected in where Duncan is and what he is wearing. As this play is more formal and traditional, Duncan is in a castle rather than a pub. And is wearing clean, posh robes and a crown. A crown is a symbol of a kings power and wealth. And Polanskis decision to make Duncan wear a crown is purely tradition, as a pose to Macbeth on the estate where Duncan is very informal and dresses casually. In this version, Duncans clothes are very traditional. In this version. Duncans clothes are more subdued and calm than Duncans clothes from Macbeth on the estate where he wears. Loud and bright clothes. The directors decision is purely social. In medieval Britain, the king was a social icon, someone who you could look up to in times of need. And because of this, the King needed to look presentable. Nowadays though, society has become much more laid back in its approach. And in accordance with the rest of society, the King, in this case Duncan has changed his image to be more inline with the rest of society. Another difference between the two versions is the use of friendship. And in particular, the difference between the friendship of Duncan and Macbeth. In Macbeth on the estate the relationship is very informal, as when Macbeth meets Duncan, he gives him a hearty pat on the back. Whereas in Polanskis version of Macbeth, the relationship is much more formal, as when Macbeth meets Duncan, Macbeth bows. An effective use of camera angles is use of camera angles is in a scene of Macbeth and Duncan. The director positions the camera so Duncan appears much higher than Macbeth does. This shows Duncans power and hierarchy over Macbeth and his people. Another difference in Polanskis version compared to Macbeth on the estate is Duncans behaviour around women. In Macbeth on the estate Duncans behaviour around women is very poor and he often treats women with little or no respect. As in one scene he presses Lady Macbeth up against a wall. But in Polanskis version, Duncan shows much more respect, and in the dance held at Macbeths castle to celebrate his promotion to Thane of Cawdor. He is seen dancing with numerous women who seem happy to be in his company. The directors decision to make Duncan appear popular among women is there top make us like Duncan as a person and not only as a King. But later that night Duncan is murdered. Although we do not see Duncans funeral, we imagine it to be a very sombre affair. And we do actually get a glimpse of the funeral Procession, we can see it is very fitting for era. A carriage, pulled by horses along a windswept path, surrounded by a group of soldiers marching into the distance. In this version of Macbeth as well as Macbeth on the estate. The first time we catch a glimpse of lady Macbeth is in her house, or in this version in her and Macbeths castle. She has just received a letter from a messenger from Macbeth informing her that he has been made Thane of Cawdor. The decision by the director to make Lady Macbeth receive the news by horseman rather than by telephone or E-mail is purely because telephone and electricity had not yet been invented. Also, receiving letters by messenger was a symbol of your wealth and prosperity in society. As normal citizens could not afford messengers, they relied on word of mouth. Another difference in Lady Macbeth are the clothes she wears. As in Macbeth on the estate she wore very low cut, revealing outfits, that were used to charm Macbeth into doing her deeds more than anything. But in this version, Lady Macbeth wears very concealing, traditional clothes. Her clothes were also dull colours, such as greens and dark blues. A sharp contrast to the sometimes bright clothes worn by Lady Macbeth in Macbeth on the estate. The decision by Polanski to change the clothes worn by Lady Macbeth is to, historical. As in the era that Macbeth was set, women took a sidelining role to the men in society. And what a mans wife wore indicated many things, such as income. As a man with a wife who wore expensive clothes was obviously far richer than a man whose wife wore cheap, tatty clothes. The styles of clothes she wears are also far more traditional. A long green or blue dress is also very fitting for this period of time. After Duncans murder has been carried out, Lady Macbeth gradually turns insane. As she is constantly cleaning herself and walking around naked. This madness is very similar to that of the madness shown by Lady Macbeth in Macbeth on the estate. This idea of her cleaning herself continuously to remove the guilt she has engraved in her conscience is a very good point. And is picked up by each director. But very soon, Lady Macbeths insurmountable guilt turns suicidal and she finally commits suicide. Although we do not see Lady Macbeth take her own life, we hear her. The scream that she emits as she plunges, presumably from a top floor window is heart rendering. The light is very low, and this is there to create atmosphere and tension, before our thoughts are confirmed that she has killed herself. The end of Polanskis version of Macbeth is virtually identical to the ending that Shakespeare wrote. And the difference in endings is a big difference between this version and that of Macbeth on the estate. In Macbeth on the estate. The ending was very sudden, and there was no long, drawn out fight as Shakespeare intended. As, in fact, Macbeths death is very sudden. The end of this film is rather disappointing. And there is also no mention of Birnam wood, which I believe is a very important part of the end, as it was in the witches predictions. Whereas, on the contrary to Macbeth on the estate Polanski Plays by the book At the beginning of the battle. English and Scottish troops are camouflaging themselves into Birnam wood, and then begin to march towards his castle. Macbeth is not the first man to see them, but one of his guards does see them. He turns to Macbeth and shouts to look towards Birnam wood. When Macbeth does see Birnam wood marching towards him. We can imagine the terror he feels. Macbeth cannot believe the witches prediction has come true. The camera angle that Polanski uses is very effective, in relaying this fear to the audience. The camera is focused directly at Macbeths face. And the dramatic qualities shown by the actor who plays Macbeth is excellent, as he stares into nothing we can imagine the shock he is in. When the English and Scottish soldiers enter the castle, they encounter little resistance. As the only defender, other than Macbeth is Seyton, Macbeths loyal armourer. Although he is dispatched by a crossbow bolt to the forehead. But that special effect is rather crudely done, but we must remember that this film was made in the 1970s before High performance computers were around. Especially the ones used to create the special effect laden film, The Matrix. The fight scene between Macbeth and a group of soldiers is rather unusual, and a little confusing, because there are approximately 5 to 10 soldiers against the lone Macbeth. But instead of going in all at the same time, they only go in one at once. This may be chivalry where you gave your opponent a fair chance. But I dont think thats what Polanski meant. We all know that Macbeth can only be killed by Macduff. This is not very well done by the director, as we think it is daft that the soldiers only go in one at once. Once Macbeth finally does get mortally wounded by Macduff, he hobbles around aimlessly around the courtyard with a sword stuck through his chest, Until about 3 minutes after he is stabbed he dies. This is too create suspense before death, but we all know its just a bad case of bad acting. Although I think this ending was better than Macbeth on the estates ending which was rather disappointing due to what a good film it was. I felt there were certain parts of Polanskis ending that was very god, such as the moment Macbeth sees Birnam wood approaching him, and there are other parts that are terrible such as the killing of Seyton by a crossbow bolt, where the special effects were lacking. Overall I think this was an average end to a below average film.

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