WOW! It's the end of quarter 3! This quarter is usually the hardest quarter but it was very short. Now, we are preparing for the AP Test! I believe that I'm ready for it! I LOVE ENGLISH! Last year, I got a 3 on my AP Language Test and I believe I can get higher because of your teachings. I still need a little bit of help on my terminology! If I stay focus on my flashcards and paying attention in class, I can definitely get a 4 or 5!
I believe I'm very strong in the writing portion. The only thing about the writing portion is understanding the prompt. On the multiple-choice section, the terminology gets me. In the end, my strengths and weaknesses match. Since we really didn't cover interesting novels this quarter, I didn't really like it so much. Their Eyes Are Watching God was interesting but I already read it twice! I knew the plot, I knew the characters, and the story line. I loved the fact that we covered poetry. I love poetry! We got really deep into the basics of poetry but when it comes to the types of poetry and the actual poets, I love it! My favorite book would have to be Their Eyes Are Watching God. The only reason being is the fact that it's taken place in the country. My whole family is from the country. When I was reading the story and learning the motifs, I could connect very well. Again, my strengths and weaknesses really weren't that great. If I had to choose, I would say understanding the prompt and terminology.
Awwww, One more quarter to go! (well half!) Let's Make It Count! :D
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Othello Essay!!!
Nature in Othello “But still, it’s true that good things can go bad, away from their true natures—” (Othello). In the Shakespearean play, Othello , the character Othello acts as a guide within the plot. Whenever the play changes and plot thickens, so does his character and personality. Shakespeare portrays this character in two different lights throughout the play; each scene, he becomes more unlike his previous nature. His character contributes to the overall effect of the play. Shakespeare uses characterization to depict the character Othello and his influences on the minor characters to develop and determine his true nature.
Lastly, the nature of Othello (and himself) is ironic. Ironies are all throughout this character and his ways because there are so many moments in the plot when what seems to be turns out to be radically different from what actually is. An example would be the killing of his true love. As a gentle spirit, or the at least a lover, you wouldn’t expect the love of your life would kill their beloved. Along with his insanity, Othello begins to take Iago’s dissuasion as motivations to kill his wife. His nature begins to slowly diminish as he monologues to his prey before taking her life. For example, Act 5, Scene 2, Page 1, Lines 1-24, clearly questions Othello’s sanity and states his insanity. The reader can detect the nobleman slowly turning into a savage beast. Finally, the death of Othello is probably the most ironic of all ironies in this play. For instance, Act 5, Scene 2, Page 18, Lines 354-372, he begins to evaluate the events leading to his suicidal stabbing. He started out as an humble man with a high position in the army and a love of his life. Next, he becomes manipulated and tricked, unbeknownst, by his ensign Iago. From naivety to insanity, our tragic hero Othello dies with his newfound nature in hand.
Having a character that changes within a play or novel may not seem like a very important feature in the plot of a play but it influences it greatly. But then the question of “what is their nature“ will arise. When the reader is familiar with the way a character is in the beginning, they usually don’t suspect much change from the first scene to the next. By Shakespeare using characterization to describe the change of Othello and how he influences the lives and outcomes of his friends’ lives, was an easier way to try and develop Othello’s nature. But with all the controversy of Othello’s true nature, is there really a thin line between man and beast?
Othello starts out as an pure man who holds and wields power but faces a lot of challenges from his city and kinsmen. He is portrayed in a gentle and innocent light based on his actions and dialogue in the beginning of the play. Othello started off as an average citizen whom some envied and would like to see his downfall. For example, in Act 1, Scene 1, Page 1, Lines 8-18, Iago says “Despise me If I do not. Three great ones of the city (In personal suit to make me his lieutenant) Off-capped to him, and by the faith of man I know my price, I am worth no worse a place. But he (as loving his own pride and purposes) Evades them with a bombast circumstance Horribly stuffed with epithets of war, And in conclusion Nonsuits my mediators.”. In this quote, Iago realized that three nobleman awarded Othello high office and refused Iago as his lieutenant. This can easily be portrayed as Iago’s motive for Othello’s demise. Next, Othello was caught having sex with the senator’s daughter by Iago. In this situation, Othello still contains his gentle nature. For example, Act 1, Scene 2, Page 2, Lines 31-33, Othello says “Not I, I must be found. My parts, my title, and my perfect soul Shall manifest me rightly.” Othello is content in his problem that he faces and still believes his good nature will prevail all. Lastly, The conversation between Iago and Othello explains that even though he went behind the senator‘s wishes, he still stayed true to his love. In Act 1, Scene 2, Page 1, Line 24-26, Othello says “…..For know, Iago, But that I love the gentle Desdemona, I would not my unhousèd free condition Put into circumscription and confine For the sea’s worth. He still, in turn, expresses his love in such a way that he gave up his freedom just because of Desdemona and regardless of what the townspeople think.
Othello soon becomes persuaded and dissuaded by those around him. His close colleagues and friends become even closer enemies. They begin to manipulate him and turn his life upside down. For example, Act 1, Scene 3, Page 15-16, Lines 329-341, Iago monologues about a events that he will create and manipulate to ruin Othello. This shows that Iago, the infamous “honest one”, begins to concoct his plan for Othello’s end. Now, because Iago is successful in his plans, Othello becomes affected and develops a suspicion towards Desdemona. For instance, Act 3, Scene 3, Page 12, Line 263-282, presents all the suspicion Othello has after Iago planted his manipulative seeds. This shows how the manipulation from Othello’s close “friends” are beginning to get to him. Almost immediately, Othello‘s personality begins to change from calm and gentle into a man filled with rage. For instance, in Act 3, Scene 3, Page 17, Line 369-373, Othello says to Iago “Villain, be sure thou prove my love a whore, Be sure of it. Give me the ocular proof Or by the worth of mine eternal soul Thou hadst been better have been born a dog Than answer my waked wrath!“. Othello has never acted so suspicious and angry in the previous Acts or scenes. Now, the reader can identify the change of nature’s between the “two Othello’s”.
Lastly, the nature of Othello (and himself) is ironic. Ironies are all throughout this character and his ways because there are so many moments in the plot when what seems to be turns out to be radically different from what actually is. An example would be the killing of his true love. As a gentle spirit, or the at least a lover, you wouldn’t expect the love of your life would kill their beloved. Along with his insanity, Othello begins to take Iago’s dissuasion as motivations to kill his wife. His nature begins to slowly diminish as he monologues to his prey before taking her life. For example, Act 5, Scene 2, Page 1, Lines 1-24, clearly questions Othello’s sanity and states his insanity. The reader can detect the nobleman slowly turning into a savage beast. Finally, the death of Othello is probably the most ironic of all ironies in this play. For instance, Act 5, Scene 2, Page 18, Lines 354-372, he begins to evaluate the events leading to his suicidal stabbing. He started out as an humble man with a high position in the army and a love of his life. Next, he becomes manipulated and tricked, unbeknownst, by his ensign Iago. From naivety to insanity, our tragic hero Othello dies with his newfound nature in hand.
Having a character that changes within a play or novel may not seem like a very important feature in the plot of a play but it influences it greatly. But then the question of “what is their nature“ will arise. When the reader is familiar with the way a character is in the beginning, they usually don’t suspect much change from the first scene to the next. By Shakespeare using characterization to describe the change of Othello and how he influences the lives and outcomes of his friends’ lives, was an easier way to try and develop Othello’s nature. But with all the controversy of Othello’s true nature, is there really a thin line between man and beast?
Man And Beast! (Get it?)
Quarter 2 Reflection!
I have to say, I liked Quarter 2 better than Quarter 1. Quarter 1 was kind of confusing and tedious. This quarter was more relaxed and independent. First off, I would like to say that the best skill I learned was keeping my interests open and trying new things. I know the seems like it doesnt pertain to English but trust me, it does! With all the college representatives and guest speakers, I really learned that everything is not for everybody. I also learned that you shouldn't dismiss a option if you do not have a solution. Basically, if I have a problem that someone is offering me an option or solution to it, I shouldn't turn it down. My least favorite part of Quarter 2 was the Midterms. I hated that midterm! (even though I heard I got the highest score). But, the midterm was so long and I really didn't understand some of the terms used that much.
With that being said, the biggest challenge that I had was reading Othello. I love Shakespearean plays and Greek Mythology (even though that was irrelevant) but this book had alot of symbols and motifs. There is nothing wrong with that but it was kind of difficult to comprehend at times. I faced that challenge by re-reading alot that I read. I also had to change the location of where I read that book because there was alot of distractions. Lastly, if it got this severe, I would Sparknotes the modern version and read the text under that title. I believe these were good solutions and I will suggest them to anyone who needs them.
Wow. Quarter 2 went passed so quick. Awww, we're about to walk. =(
With that being said, the biggest challenge that I had was reading Othello. I love Shakespearean plays and Greek Mythology (even though that was irrelevant) but this book had alot of symbols and motifs. There is nothing wrong with that but it was kind of difficult to comprehend at times. I faced that challenge by re-reading alot that I read. I also had to change the location of where I read that book because there was alot of distractions. Lastly, if it got this severe, I would Sparknotes the modern version and read the text under that title. I believe these were good solutions and I will suggest them to anyone who needs them.
Wow. Quarter 2 went passed so quick. Awww, we're about to walk. =(
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Quarter 1 Review!
There alot of things I like and some things I disliked about Quarter 1. First off, I love the class in its entirety. I love the atmosphere, the feedback, and the mood of the class. I also love the freedom that Ms. Ahearn bestowed upon us. So, what does this have to do with Quarter 1? I believe that the setting of the class affects the productivity and performance of a student's work and their overall mood for the class. Since the class wasn't stressful and the teacher wasn't high strung, I believe my work and my sanity was one of it's best!
Next, the things or thing I dislike about Quarter 1. The biggest thing I didn't and still do not like about AP Literature is annotating! Personally, I do not like marking up documents or a piece of literature with pens and highlighters. Also, I don't really think that annotating helps me that much. Yes, it let's you find information quicker but do you really retain it? I don't know If I'm grasping the concept of it but as of right now, I'm not a fan. Lastly, I would have liked to stay on poems more. Making poems and reading them in front of the class would have been fun and I believe benefical to every student.
Next, the things or thing I dislike about Quarter 1. The biggest thing I didn't and still do not like about AP Literature is annotating! Personally, I do not like marking up documents or a piece of literature with pens and highlighters. Also, I don't really think that annotating helps me that much. Yes, it let's you find information quicker but do you really retain it? I don't know If I'm grasping the concept of it but as of right now, I'm not a fan. Lastly, I would have liked to stay on poems more. Making poems and reading them in front of the class would have been fun and I believe benefical to every student.
Oedipus Essay!
Jarrell Slade October 25, 2010
AP Literature Period 4A
Tiresias wields the truth as a weapon. He believes the truth has power and the use could benefit whosoever obtained its knowledge. For example, on page 1437, line 405, Tiresias says “The truth with all its power lives inside of me”. This could be interpreted as the prophet informing his subject that since he wields the power of the truth, he is just as powerful. However, Tiresias guards the truth when he feels that it’s necessary. For instance, on page 1436, line 375, he states “and I will never reveal my dreadful secrets, not to say your own”. The conversation between Tiresias and Oedipus was one that wanted clarification and answers. Now, since Tiresias believed that his subject shouldn’t know his message, he guards it from him and continues to do so after he pleads. In conjunction, Tiresias believes that a guarded secret can and should protect you from a horrible revelation. On page 1436, line 359, it says “How terrible-to see the truth when the truth is only pain to him who sees!”. With this statement, it explains how Tiresias believes that when you see the outcome of a horrible truth, it will only bring you pain. Since a guarded secret has not been told, it will protect you against yourself.
Tiresias is a player of irony as well as a symbol of irony. Ironies are all throughout this character and his ways because there are so many moments in the plot when what seems to be turns out to be radically different from what actually is. A simple example could be Tiresias himself. When the Leader first spoke about a seer, the reader will probably think of a fortune teller or someone “gypsy-like”. Instead of those normal associations, you find a blind old man who is being guided by a little boy. Another example would be his prophetic title. As a prophet, you are ordained to tell the truth. Along with his insight, comes the responsibility and obligation to tell the truth in any circumstance. During his conversation between Oedipus, you noticed he was trying to evade the truth and the situation in its entirety. Finally, the truth he tells is probably the most ironic of all ironies in this tragedy. He reveals that Oedipus killed his father and married his mother. The audience believed that he ran away from his parents in order to escape the prophecy. When Tiresias reveals the result of him not succeeding in his evasion, the plot suddenly becomes polar opposites of what Sophocles wanted the audience to think.
Symbolism and Tiresias are the biggest analogy in this play. First off, Tiresias is already a symbol within himself by being the symbol of the gods and Fate. For example, on page 1435, the leader calls him “the man of god” (line 338) and Oedipus calls him “the master of all the mysteries of our life” (line 341). This could be further explained saying Tiresias is the human presence of all supernatural and non-existent forces here on Earth. Even though it’s contradictory, Tiresias’ “sight” could also be a form of symbolism. For instance, even though Tiresias can not see, he still sees all and knows all as well. Sophocles portrayed Tiresias sight as insight or abilities rather than the physical form of sight. Although his sight is a factor, he’s blindness is one as well. His blindness shows how he is not swayed by earthly situations and things. For example, when you are able to see, you become infused in your surroundings and environment. Since Tiresias is blind to those earthly stimuli, his connection with the omnipresent is just as strong as our connection with life.
The gift of knowing that Tiresias possess is an important characteristic in this play. Since he knows all, his answers are coveted. For example, on page 1435, line 345-346, it says “…You, my lord, are the one shield, the one savior we can find.”. Now, everyone knows an old blind man can not be a strong shield to protect a huge city like Thebes but what could protect them is his answers to the many questions the king has that could possibly save the city. In addition, Tiresias’ knowledgeable abilities could also control ones fate. For instance, Tiresias knows all truth and life revolves around truth. If the prophet decides to not tell revelation, then someone’s life could easily be changed and vice versa. Possession of information could perturb those around him because of his actions. This is not necessarily important but that’s when he can use his gifts to his full potential. He can wait until he wants to reveal his message after he is done consuming the plea of others. For example, from pages 1436-1437, Oedipus begins to infuriate Tiresias trying to get the information out of him. Smart as he may, Tiresias can then draw his sword of truth to defend himself from the reckless behavior of others.
Having a guide within a play or novel may not seem like a very important figure in the story line but he leads the plot. Since some characters in the play do not know of any answers to the tragedies happening to the city, the one who has the answers leads. He prides himself in having wondrous wisdom, as other characters praise him for his accuracy in foretelling the future. Tiresias uses positive qualities such as knowledge, truth and faith to control Oedipus' future of negative misfortune. Oedipus eventually finds himself no longer in control of his fate because Tiresias' knowledge has pushed him into the dreadful and truth of reality.
This is blind eye! Get it, blind eye!? =)
AP Literature Period 4A
Tiresias in Oedipus Rex
If the blind leads the blind, then who leads him? In the Sophoclean play, Oedipus Rex, the character Tiresias acts as a guide within the plot. He holds the key to advancement and seemingly controls the final outcome of many of the characters lives. This prophet was called upon to reveal the unknown to the unknowing. Through values and devices such as truth, irony, symbolism, and knowledge, Tiresias controls the fate of Oedipus the King.Tiresias wields the truth as a weapon. He believes the truth has power and the use could benefit whosoever obtained its knowledge. For example, on page 1437, line 405, Tiresias says “The truth with all its power lives inside of me”. This could be interpreted as the prophet informing his subject that since he wields the power of the truth, he is just as powerful. However, Tiresias guards the truth when he feels that it’s necessary. For instance, on page 1436, line 375, he states “and I will never reveal my dreadful secrets, not to say your own”. The conversation between Tiresias and Oedipus was one that wanted clarification and answers. Now, since Tiresias believed that his subject shouldn’t know his message, he guards it from him and continues to do so after he pleads. In conjunction, Tiresias believes that a guarded secret can and should protect you from a horrible revelation. On page 1436, line 359, it says “How terrible-to see the truth when the truth is only pain to him who sees!”. With this statement, it explains how Tiresias believes that when you see the outcome of a horrible truth, it will only bring you pain. Since a guarded secret has not been told, it will protect you against yourself.
Tiresias is a player of irony as well as a symbol of irony. Ironies are all throughout this character and his ways because there are so many moments in the plot when what seems to be turns out to be radically different from what actually is. A simple example could be Tiresias himself. When the Leader first spoke about a seer, the reader will probably think of a fortune teller or someone “gypsy-like”. Instead of those normal associations, you find a blind old man who is being guided by a little boy. Another example would be his prophetic title. As a prophet, you are ordained to tell the truth. Along with his insight, comes the responsibility and obligation to tell the truth in any circumstance. During his conversation between Oedipus, you noticed he was trying to evade the truth and the situation in its entirety. Finally, the truth he tells is probably the most ironic of all ironies in this tragedy. He reveals that Oedipus killed his father and married his mother. The audience believed that he ran away from his parents in order to escape the prophecy. When Tiresias reveals the result of him not succeeding in his evasion, the plot suddenly becomes polar opposites of what Sophocles wanted the audience to think.
Symbolism and Tiresias are the biggest analogy in this play. First off, Tiresias is already a symbol within himself by being the symbol of the gods and Fate. For example, on page 1435, the leader calls him “the man of god” (line 338) and Oedipus calls him “the master of all the mysteries of our life” (line 341). This could be further explained saying Tiresias is the human presence of all supernatural and non-existent forces here on Earth. Even though it’s contradictory, Tiresias’ “sight” could also be a form of symbolism. For instance, even though Tiresias can not see, he still sees all and knows all as well. Sophocles portrayed Tiresias sight as insight or abilities rather than the physical form of sight. Although his sight is a factor, he’s blindness is one as well. His blindness shows how he is not swayed by earthly situations and things. For example, when you are able to see, you become infused in your surroundings and environment. Since Tiresias is blind to those earthly stimuli, his connection with the omnipresent is just as strong as our connection with life.
The gift of knowing that Tiresias possess is an important characteristic in this play. Since he knows all, his answers are coveted. For example, on page 1435, line 345-346, it says “…You, my lord, are the one shield, the one savior we can find.”. Now, everyone knows an old blind man can not be a strong shield to protect a huge city like Thebes but what could protect them is his answers to the many questions the king has that could possibly save the city. In addition, Tiresias’ knowledgeable abilities could also control ones fate. For instance, Tiresias knows all truth and life revolves around truth. If the prophet decides to not tell revelation, then someone’s life could easily be changed and vice versa. Possession of information could perturb those around him because of his actions. This is not necessarily important but that’s when he can use his gifts to his full potential. He can wait until he wants to reveal his message after he is done consuming the plea of others. For example, from pages 1436-1437, Oedipus begins to infuriate Tiresias trying to get the information out of him. Smart as he may, Tiresias can then draw his sword of truth to defend himself from the reckless behavior of others.
Having a guide within a play or novel may not seem like a very important figure in the story line but he leads the plot. Since some characters in the play do not know of any answers to the tragedies happening to the city, the one who has the answers leads. He prides himself in having wondrous wisdom, as other characters praise him for his accuracy in foretelling the future. Tiresias uses positive qualities such as knowledge, truth and faith to control Oedipus' future of negative misfortune. Oedipus eventually finds himself no longer in control of his fate because Tiresias' knowledge has pushed him into the dreadful and truth of reality.
This is blind eye! Get it, blind eye!? =)
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