| Papers [241-252] of 1817 :: [Page 21 of 152] | | Go to page : <— 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 —> | |
|
|
?Death of a Salesman?, 2006.
Examines the importance of the character, Willy Loman, in this play by Arthur Miller.
1,063 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 0 sources, $ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In his play, "Death of a Salesman", Miller creates Willy Loman, a character that symbolizes both the best and worst of America. He represents the consistent optimism of America's founders and greatest over achievers, as well as the fanatical day dreaming of would-be failures. The paper shows how Loman became caught up by the illusion of wealth and tried all of his life to achieve it, only to dissolve into insanity when he could not achieve his lofty expectations. The paper shows that Willy Loman's bitterness is a result of external factors that he could not easily control; it is a combination of influences that include his son, his career and the disillusionment as a result of his neighbor's wealth.
From the Paper
"Willy becomes embittered because he falls victim to the very system he respects and wants to be a part of. He sees himself as a man of ability and when his boss fires him he sees that he has been worn out and used by his job and now that he has no tangible benefits he is left out in the cold. This type of vicious business system is exactly the cold hearted reality of the American Dream and Willy becomes a casualty through his blind faith to the system."
| |
|
Nora in "A Doll?s House", 2006.
A literary analysis of the character Nora in Ibsen's "A Doll's House".
940 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper studies Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House", a three-act play which affords the audience an insightful perspective on one woman's epiphany. The paper's analysis focuses on the character of Nora Helmer who, when the story opens, appears to be the prototypical pampered wife. The paper dissects Nora's relationship to her husband, and comments on the changes in that relationship as a metaphor for the transformation of women's role in society. The paper also analyzes several literary techniques used by Ibsen in the play, including the retrospective technique to reveal important incidents from the past as the play progresses. Finally, the paper explores the feminist undertones of the play, and its commentary on the position of women in the late 19th century.
From the Paper
"One soon learns that Nora is not quite the empty-headed spendthrift she appears. Rather, she has need of money in order to repay a debt owed Nils Krogstad from years past--one incurred in order to save her husband's life, but requiring that she forge her father's name. Her husband, of course, is completely unaware that all this has transpired. When Torvald assumes the bank presidency, Nora's creditor will lose his position there. So Krogstad threatens blackmail in an attempt to convince her to use her influence to save his job. Nora certainly tries, but Torvald is determined to dismiss Krogstad. The desperate man delivers a letter revealing his past association with the woman. After Torvald has read the letter and rejected Nora, Krogstad has a change of heart--at which point, so does Torvald. But it is too late. Nora realizes that her marriage to Torvald has never been a relationship between equals. She has lived with a stranger but cannot bear to continue as his mere toy, a doll in this doll's house. Nora leaves Torvald and her three children."
| |
|
Hamlet and the Gravediggers, 2005.
This paper discusses the final act of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" about gravediggers and views on death.
1,180 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 0 sources, $ 40.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that, at the beginning of the final act of "Hamlet", William Shakespeare foreshadows the bloody and carnage-filled conclusion to this tragedy by introducing views concerning the inevitability and finality of death through the dialogue between Hamlet and the two gravediggers. The author points out that, as Hamlet ponders the past profession of a skull, which has been carelessly tossed out of its grave, he is forced to realize that in death there is no social distinction. The paper concludes that, through Hamlet's reversal of opinion about the desirability of death and the discussion with the gravediggers, Shakespeare, who is readying the audience for the slaughter that is soon to commence, uses the scene as a means of commenting on his perception of death, the only lasting condition and the oldest profession.
From the Paper
"With the new light shed upon the dark subject of death, Hamlet forces himself to reevaluate his death wishes. Through out the play, Hamlet sees death as a desirable end, worrying only about where his soul would go if he were to commit self-slaughter. At the height of his misery, he makes known his yearnings, exclaiming "O, that this too too sullied flesh would melt..." (1-2-129). It is clear that his coveted will is for a quick demise. Hamlet explains this further when he reveals his belief that his life is useless. After promising to bend his eye away from Wittneberg and towards Elsinore, Hamlet states "How weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable/Seem to me all the uses of the world!" (1.2.133-134)."
| |
|
Creon?s Transformation: From "Oedipus" to "Antigone", 2006.
This paper analyzes the transformation of Creon from innocent spectator to corrupt ruler in Sophocles' "Oedipus the King" and "Antigone."
890 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper follows the transformation of Creon in two of Sophocles' plays "Oedipus the King" and "Antigone." Throughout the course of the two plays, Creon transforms from an innocent spectator in "Oedipus the King," to a corrupt ruler and tragic figure in "Antigone." Creon's character in "Oedipus the King" depicts a kind, selfless and forgiving person. His good nature allows him to value the opinion of the people of Thebes. Yet in "Antigone," Creon uses his power as a king to punish and dictate laws without the consent of the people of Thebes. The writer contends that Creon's transformation which leads to his own suffering manages to invoke pity from those who dislike his character. A perfect ending for a tragic play.
From the Paper
"Creon's character in Oedipus the King shows a kind, selfless, and forgiving person. His good nature allows him to value the opinion of the people of Thebes. As he expresses in a speech to Oedipus and the citizens of Thebes, "I stand / In all men's favor, I am all men's friend." Creon is loved by the Thebans and they manifest this in their loyalty towards him. In the midst of Oedipus' troubles he accuses Creon of being a traitor. To devise the proper punishment, Oedipus asks the Thebans to decide on Creon's fate: death or banishment. The Thebans respond in Creon's favor."
| |
|
"A Streetcar Named Desire", 2005.
This paper discusses Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire"-- especially scene three, The Poker Night.
1,750 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 56.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that, in Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire", one of the most recurring images is the overpowering masculinity of the protagonist Stanley and how it pervades the atmosphere in Stella and Stanley's home, which is shown through dialogue, stage direction and description of the surroundings. The author points out that this masculinity serves to highlight the striking difference between Stanley and Blanche, a delicate remnant of the old ways of gentility and femininity and emphasizes not only the contrast between the primitive and the civilized, which is present throughout the play, but also the difference between the Old South and the New South, a difference that Blanche cannot accept. The paper relates that, in scene three, Stella and Stanley's relationship is without tenderness, only a raw feeling that manifests itself in anger or sex; their relationship is contrasted with Blanche and Mitch who calmly sit down to smoke on the steps, looking up at the night sky.
From the Paper
"Scene three opens with a description of the surroundings during a poker night. The kitchen is bathed in a "lurid nocturnal brilliance, the raw colors of childhood's spectrum," (p. 2301). It is not an innocent child's scene, though; the amount of bright color in the room makes it look crude and garish. However, the mention of the colors as "childhood" colors could indicate the immaturity of the men, their childish way of acting during the night to come. The poker players are introduced, and they are described as wearing vividly colored shirts. These men are "at the peak of their physical manhood, as coarse and direct and powerful as the primary colors." These men are strong and powerful, and yet they have a childish aspect to them, in the ways they use this physical strength they possess. The hard alcohol, namely whisky, on the table also underlines the masculinity of these men."
| |
|
"Oedipus the King", 2006.
An evaluation of tragedy in Sophocles' "Oedipus the King".
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper studies the Greek play "Oedipus the King" by Sophocles. The paper attempts to understand the play within the framework of the traditional tragedy. The paper shows how the main characteristics experience a sense of moral dilemmas associated with Oedipus and his mother's tragic demise within the play. Specifically, the paper demonstrates Sophocles' use of tragedy in classical form with his portrayal of deviant family relations and violent instances of madness. The paper also underscores the stylistic elements, in order to elucidate the play's subtext.
Outline:
I. Introduction
A. Traditional Text Analysis
B. Summary of Text
C. Presentation of Text
D. Thesis: Tragedy in Classical Form, Deviant Family Relations, and Violent Instances in Tragedy
II. Critique
A. Tragedy in Classical Form
B. Deviant Family Relations
C. Violent Instances in Tragedy
III. Conclusion
IV. Works Cited
From the Paper
"The first stylistic theme of using the tragedy as a format is the structure of the characters in the play is easy to be seen. They all seem ignorant of what the other is doing, and this eventually causes the tragic scenes in the play. This forms "the criterion for the tragedy in the textual format of character relations within the plays of Sophocles." (Bloom p.133) By understanding this element of the text, we can see why Sophocles sets a tragic tone by the utter ignorance the characters have of each other. A second point in the stylistic aspects of the text are the pride that causes the characters to act unreasonably. They tend "to refuse the offers of the Oracle of Tiresius," (Jebb p.67) and think they are exempt from this. By adding this sense to the play, we can learn by accepting the destiny handed to Oedipus and his mother, a tragedy will eventually bring them to death and misery."
| |
|
"Hamlet", 2006.
Examines the revenge play within William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,220 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 41.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
Perhaps the most significant scene in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet "is the revenge play, portraying the death of King Gonzago that is acted out inside the actual play itself. The paper shows that the importance of this play entitled 'The Murder of Gonzago', lies in the alterations imposed upon by Hamlet. Hamlet changes the framework of this play in a ruse that he hopes will tell him of the true cause of his father's death
From the Paper
"Hamlet makes clear the importance of the intensity of the dramatic scenes when parleying with the players, as well as in his single dialogue. He fears that if the play were carried out like a typical revenge play, then his uncle will not be affected enough to show his guilt with his own eyes."
| |
|
Shakespeare's "Hamlet", 2005.
This paper discusses the character Horatio in Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,570 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 0 sources, $ 51.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that the character Horatio in Shakespeare's "Hamlet"
is the one person whom the main character Hamlet trusts and is the only prominent character that finds himself alive at the end. The author points out that Horatio is the antithesis of two other characters Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Hamlet's old friends upon whom he feels he can no longer rely. The paper relates that Horatio is the pure soul of the play, the herald of Hamlet's story whose behavior parallels Christian tenets because his honesty and goodness rise above the shadowy dealings of many other characters; they are punished and the good Horatio is rewarded. Several quotations.
From the Paper
"The reader senses that Horatio has never given Hamlet any reason to doubt his love and devotion towards him. The service of a true friend is something that is never forgotten and rarely questioned. Hamlet certainly seems sure of the worth of this true friend. Some may see Horatio as a simple "yes-man," which may be a valid argument. Surely, Horatio was never said to have brought grand insight to Hamlet's plan, nor an amazingly original idea. His worth comes from another source. His agreements with his friend are based on true sincerity. Certainly, Claudius recognized that sincerity and found Horatio not to be a worthy candidate for the recognizance work required."
| |
|
Aristophanes? "Clouds", 2006.
An analysis of the interplay between philosophy, poetry and divinity in Aristophanes' play "Clouds".
936 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper considers "Clouds" as a critique of philosophy in the form of a comedy, revealing the tension between poetry and philosophy. The paper claims that different forms of subversion lie at the heart of the play about the relationship between Socrates and the Clouds, new and mysterious goddesses he has invented with his worship of reason to replace the old Olympian pantheon. The writer presents the explanation of Leo Strauss as to the Clouds' nature, and contrasts it with the writer's own theory that Aristophanes' purpose in writing "Clouds" was to demonstrate that Socrates' philosophizing, in its excess and amorality, is potentially destructive to society and humanity. In conclusion, the writer shows that Aristophanes is revealed as the representative of the Clouds among the Greeks.
From the Paper
"Generally speaking, Aristophanes' Clouds represent imitation, indeterminacy and play. They are the Gods of language; they are also the language itself. Celestial signs simultaneously revealing and concealing the heavens. Demi-gods linking the human with the divine. Tricksters that teach men of the proper measure. Now the relationship between the Clouds and Aristophanes becomes clearer: the comedian poet considers himself a representative of those daimons, meaning on the one hand that he re-presents them, reveals them, introduces them and on the other, that he is the sole ambassador of the Clouds among his people."
| |
|
Wrestling With Chaos, 2006.
An analysis of the art and philosophy of ancient Greece.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper studies how ancient Greek art and thought were affected by their sense of chaos in the world. The paper argues that, from at least the time of Homer, the Greeks displayed an anxiety about their chaotic world. The paper charts the evolution of their response to this chaos, both creatively and philosophically, as depicted in their art and writings. The paper then turns to Greek drama, which it asserts is the culmination of this evolution. The paper assesses how drama served as an inquisition into the nature of man and a fusing of humanist expression with religious tradition. The paper quotes from a variety of original texts to support its argument.
From the Paper
"As an early example of orally presented poetry, the Iliad is clearly an ancestor of drama on a technical level, both as performance art and as verse. The purpose of Homer's epic was primarily to provide a poetic record of an important event in the history of his people from which they could draw a sense of identity and pride after the fall of Mycenean society. In it, however, we can also see "three persistent themes of human interest: the nature of the supernatural, the intervention of the supernatural in human events, and acute observations about the behavior of men toward one another" (Hooper, 60). These themes would continue to influence the development of artistic expression and philosophic thought through Classical Greece and the rise of drama."
| |
|
Nora as a Theorist, 2006.
An examination of Nora, a character in Henrik Ibsen's play, "A Doll's House", in light of the theories of Karl Marx and Max Weber.
5,809 words (approx. 23.2 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 139.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper explains that Marx and Weber both had theories of alienation and authority. It shows that they both thought that men had been alienated from their natural selves. The paper explains that Marx thought it was because men had been subordinated by economics and technology and had given up their power to produce and that Weber believed that men became alienated from themselves when they formed organizations or bureaucracies. The writer discusses that Nora, the main character in "A Doll's House", is a sort of doll to her husband, Torvald. The writer explains that Nora loses her own sense of self as she subordinates herself to Torvald's authority in all things. The writer states that Nora is a theorist in the same way that Marx and Weber are because, when she realizes that she is alienated from herself and that she has an unresolved conflict because of this, she confronts her husband and leaves him, her children and her lifestyle. In conclusion, the writer posits that Nora would have made Karl Marx proud by her decision to leave everything she has ever known to start a new life without the conflict and alienation that she had become accustomed to.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Karl Marx' Theory of Alienation
Max Weber's Theory of Authority
Marx and Weber
"A Doll's House"
Analysis of Nora as a Theorist
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"The key part that Weber and Marx seem to agree on, though, is that there are people in authority in society, and people who are not in authority. This causes conflict and a sense of alienation for some people. While they vary in the reasons why this causes alienation, and they vary on why some men come to be in authority, they firmly agree on the problem. It is merely the solution and the cause of the problem where they diverge. The conflict and problems that they discuss can be seen in Henrik Ibsen's play "A Doll's House"."
| |
|
The Fool in "King Lear", 2006.
Explores the role of the Fool in Shakespeare's tragic play, "King Lear".
1,059 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 0 sources, $ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The Fool in William Shakespeare's "King Lear" is often mistaken as foolhardy, but everything he says has a deeper significance and greater truth. Since he is the court jester, the audience assumes that the Fool's main purpose is to entertain us. The paper shows that the Fool's dramatic function is not to humor us, but to tell King Lear the truth through his metaphoric rhymes and jests. The Fool is a representation of King Lear's psyche. The paper explains that when the Fool disappears after Act III, scene ii, what is left of King Lear's stable mentality quickly disintegrates. The relationship between King Lear is not one of master and servant. The Fool could be considered King Lear's subconscious; he has perceptions the King Lear does not. With his knowledge, the Fool tries to teach King Lear how to reason out the truth for himself.
From the Paper
"The Fool states that King Lear was wise in a time when he did not need it as he doe now. King Lear was a wise King but when his wisdom was greatly needed he did not apply his knowledge. The Fool states that he is merely a Fool, but he would rather be a Fool than a befallen King. He strives to inform Lear of how adverse his situation is, but King Lear still does not fully comprehend the Fool's metaphors. Before King Lear decided to see his other daughter, Regan, the Fool warns King Lear that Regan's reception will be similar if not worse than Gonerils'."
|
|
|
