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Stephen Crane's Maggie, 2008.
This paper discusses Stephen Crane's book "Maggie: A Girl of the Streets".
1,200 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that, like other novels in the naturalist school of literature, Stephen Crane's "Maggie: A Girl of the Streets", exploits the sufferings of the poor through a gaze that effectively casts a sardonic light on the values of the dominant culture - the American middle class of the 19th century. The writer notes that "Maggie: A Girl of the Streets" was inspired by Crane's forays into the slums of the Bowery. The writer points out that this novel is considered to be the first example of literary naturalism in American fiction. The writer maintains that it remains a valuable - if not sadly forgotten - work that manages to capture a pivotal moment in American culture.
From the Paper
"If Crane's work was now successful on an international level, it was still the subject of ridicule by the press on home soil. While the reception for 'The Red Badge of Courage' was warm, it was less so for his first collection of poetry, 'The Black Rider and Other Lines'. Crane spent the next few years working as a war correspondent, during the course of which he was shipwrecked on the way to Cuba, an experience he would hearken back to in the form of the well-known short story 'The Open Boat'. In Florida, Crane met Cora Stewart-Taylor, the madam of a Jacksonville brothel with literary aspirations of her own. The two would marry and go off to Europe together, where they worked as correspondents during the Greco-Turkish War of 1897. This experience would be used as fodder for Crane's final novel, 'Active Service', completed in 1899."
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The Dawn of Warfare in the 'Epic of Gilgamesh', 2008.
This paper discusses the dawn of warfare in the ancient text "Epic of Gilgamesh", translated by M. G. Kovacs.
1,359 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
The writer notes that the "Epic of Gilgamesh" is one of the most remarkable writings of the Babylonian ancient literature. Its main theme is the condition of man on earth as a mortal being. The writer discusses that the epic is centered on the relationship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu, the two legendary heroes and friends who pass together through initiating experiences. One of their most important heroic feats is the battle with Humbaba, the demon that guards the Cedar Forest, whom Gilgamesh eventually defeats. The writer notes that the episode of the battle with the demon is very significant for both the ancient and the modern interpretations of warfare. The writer maintains that, first of all, the battle of Gilgamesh against the demon is easily inscribed in the tradition of the battle of good against evil, common to most heroic epics, legends and myths. At the same time, though, modern interpretations of the passage arise when the wider context of the battle is analyzed. The writer concludes that the "Epic of Gilgamesh" has very interesting modern ramifications of meaning, mixed with the traditional epic storyline.
From the Paper
"The 'Epic of Gilgamesh' is a very profound text, which must have had great importance for its contemporary audience. First of all, the traditional battle of good against evil is emphasized throughout the epic. Also, the wars fought by the two friends together emphasize the classic theme of the quest for immortality. The warfare was not at the time done with the aid of any great technology. The braveness of heroes, the help of a beneficial god, such as Shamash in the text, the perfect communion between the two heroes, such were generally the main reasons why the battle was won in a classic epic. Thus, in the text, the episode of the battle against Humbaba describes the way in which the god Shamash raised all the winds to help Gilgamesh win the battle against the demon .. "
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Analysis of Thomas Hardy's Women Characters, 2008.
A thesis paper analyzing the female characters in Thomas Hardy's "Tess of the D'Urbervilles" and "Jude the Obscure" in the light of feminist criticism.
19,400 words (approx. 77.6 pages), 33 sources, MLA, $ 249.95
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Abstract
The novels of Thomas Hardy have created intense critical debate and discussion in recent years, especially in terms of post-structuralist and feminist readings and interpretations of the texts. A central focus of this critical and theoretical literary discourse is the apparent ambivalence and ambiguity that many scholars perceive in the works with regard to his attitude towards women and their place in society. This apparent ambiguity in Hardy's presentation of women forms the underlying and central trajectory of thought in this paper and an attempt is made to relate these critical views to the two main texts under discussion; as well as presenting an overall view of the feminist stance as it pertains to the interpretation of the selected texts. A further and equally important dimension of this study is the exploration of the view that Hardy's perception towards women was influenced by the conservative society and times in which he lived. This paper also explores to what extent the writer questioned and opposed the patriarchal views that were dominant in Victorian society at the time. The central core of the present analysis of Hardy's novels is therefore focused on feminist interpretations and critiques of the works in question. More specifically, the feminist critique is involved with the post structuralist and postmodern deconstruction of western society and the interrogation of the constructs and master narratives that inform or create various social attitudes and perceptions of gender. This is an aspect that is developed in the theory section of the present study and is expanded on further in the analysis of the novels. A central fulcrum around which the discussion in this paper revolves is the apparent ambiguities and contradictions in Hardy's works, when seen from a feminist perspective. This paper also attempts to reconcile these two seemingly opposing views of the works to some extent. Another central element in this analysis of Hardy's novels is the focus on the politics of sex and the cultural and social norms and values that played an important part in the view of women and gender discrimination in Victorian society. There is little doubt that Victorian society had a very narrow view of the potential and individuality of women. There are many feminist views, concepts and theoretical constructs that are also incorporated into the analysis of the texts. For example, the importance of the theory that society "politicizes" the female body and the way that the female body is objectified and becomes an "object of desire" rather then a living person. However, throughout this analysis a balance is maintained between the theoretical views and analytical tools that are used by feminist critics and an analysis of the text itself. In other words, the theoretical views are measured against the actual text.
Outline:
1. Introduction
1.2. Thomas hardy and Victorian society: a brief background.
2. Feminist theory and Hardy
2.1. Modern theoretical trajectories and feminism
2.1. 1. A note on post - structuralism and postmodernism
2.2. Feminist theory and literary criticism
2.3. The Social and cultural context
2. 4. The Male Gaze
3. Tess of the d'Urbervilles
3.1. The problem of Hardy as a feminist novel
3.2. Overview
3.3. Tess and traditional feminist interpretations
3.4. Tess of the D'Urbervilles and sexual politics
3.5. Sexual construction
3.6. The development of Tess and the fight against the 'male gaze'
4. Jude the Obscure
4.1. Introduction and overview
4.2. Brief summary of the novel
4.3. The male world divided from nature
4.4. Arabella
4.5. Sue
5. Conclusion and Assessment
6. Bibliography
From the Paper
"The most imperative aspect that Mitchell notes is that feminist interpretations are extremely important in an understanding of these works due to the fact that female characters and issues surrounding sexuality and gender form such an important part of almost all of Hardy's novels and cannot be ignored in terms of modern analysis. This may seem like a rather obvious point but in many of Hardy's works the focus is on the female characters as a reflection of and comment on society and the cultural milieu of the novels.
"Sexuality and its ramifications in terms of characters like Tess in Tess of the D'Urbervilles is also an important aspect of contemporary feminist critique that applies to the novels. This is an aspect that is especially important in an analysis of the novels.
"One of the most important early feminist critics of the work of Thomas Hardy is Mary Jacobus (1975). Her work has been focused on the psychological dimensions and representations of Sue Bridehead and the nature of her emancipation, in Jude the Obscure. (Harvey 183)."
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The Role of the Mother in Fairy Tales, 2008.
An analysis of the roles of mothers and step-mothers in fairy tales and how these relationships are a reflection of society at the time.
3,375 words (approx. 13.5 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 95.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the demonstration of social and moral changes through time that can be seen in fairy tales. It focuses on the role of the mother as a guiding force and a source of competition and angst, for children, as it is expressed in more literary fairy tales. The paper analyzes the reflection of the fairy tale into the inner mind of the child which always ends happily to play out resentment toward the dominant rule enforcer of their lives, the mother, without fear.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Chapter 1: (Step) Mothers and Daughters
Chapter 2: Old School, Modern Need
Chapter 3: Grimm Brothers' Mothers and Daughters
Conclusion
From the Paper
"There is no doubt that fairy tales are a clear message of social and cultural coding, and as many argue they should evolve with time, to better reflect the culture in which they are used as teaching tool. (Bettelheim 24) yet, it should also be argued that fairy tales, in their literary history still serve a purpose, no matter how watered down they are. The role of the mother as the allowable antagonist to the children is essential to the child's ability to have feelings of anger and resentment in a form that does less harm, to them than open confrontation. Much of childhood is extremely emotional internalized perception, and acknowledging that these feelings are normal and even healthy, with regard to the child becoming independent, is essential to normal psychological development. Literary fairy tales then serve the purpose of giving us a glimpse into the issues of the past but also hold many truths that are still relevant today, as can be attested by a frequent adaptation of their storylines to modern contexts. The struggle between the mother and the child is universal and will likely remain so, as the relationship one has with one's mother as a child and an adult, for most people is the most significant of all, without fairy tales the regeneration of social guidelines would be much more difficult, hence the liberation of the fairy tale in modern literature and popular media."
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"Journey of Crazy Horse", 2008.
This paper provides a critical book review of "The Journey of Crazy Horse" by Marshall, Joseph III.
1,015 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the Native-American historian and anthropologist Joseph Marshall III is the author of many previous books on Lakota culture. But the warrior Crazy Horse is more than an important part of Lakota history in Marshall's estimation. Crazy Horse was also Marshall's boyhood hero. The writer discusses that with the value of adult wisdom and respect, Marshall attempts to craft a biography of Crazy Horse that presents the life of the proud Lakota warrior and leader that transcends the myths Crazy Horse's life spawned in both the tales of Native Americans and white historians. The writer notes that Marshall admits his subjectivity, and states that it is impossible to gain a full portrait of Crazy Horse in an objective fashion, given that the symbol of Crazy Horse has transcended the man who walked the earth. The writer points out that Marshall, instead, offers clarifications about the facts pertaining to Crazy Horse's most famous victory and muses upon what Crazy Horse means to whites and to native peoples today. The writer maintains that this is, given the imperfect nature of history, as clear a portrait as one can access of Crazy Horse.
From the Paper
"Marshall attempts to provide a historical context to the battle, to Crazy Horse's entire life and military career. He persuasively demonstrates that Little Big Horn was not an anomaly, or simply the result of a desire for violence or a violation of the rules of combat. For example, another of this warrior's great feats was winning Battle of the Rosebud also near Buffalo, Wyoming, in which Crazy Horse and his men fought General George Crook only eight days prior to the glorious days of Little Bighorn. There, Crazy Horse established a critical advantage over the federal forces by preventing Crook's men from joining Custer.
"Despite his skill in battle, however, Crazy Horse was not crazy. In fact, no one could be 'crazy' and show the calculated, tactical success he did in the field. Crazy Horse put his people before his own needs. He later surrendered rather at Fort Robinson because he wanted to ensure survival of his Lakota people. But this did not besmirch his reputation in Native American history."
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The Nature of American Literature, 2008.
An examination of American literature.
1,271 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the nature of American literature. The paper explains that American literature, like many other nationalistic literary bodies has had an evolution that marks changing attitudes with regard to what is to be included in the voice of literature. The paper then looks at how the representation of both women and African-American writers is not the only body of inclusion, as contemporary movements have made significant strides toward the inclusion of almost every immigrant group into the canon of American literature and into the body of publishing in general in history and contemporary works. The paper also points out that the defining characteristics of what qualifies as American Literature is simply that it is a written form, poetry, prose or drama that conveys any point of view of the American experience of growth and change. The writer states that frequently some of the most fundamentally expressive forms of American literature are immigrant literature that explores the real and fictional development of the self, from an immigrant outsider to someone who feels as if they are an American, regardless of the outside view of themselves as a foreigner. The paper concludes that American literature should continue to be inclusive and representative of personal nationalistic growth, as a standard bearer for other forms of nationalistic literature.
From the Paper
"In all representations of immigrant literature there is a clear sense that at almost any given time in America there was a dominant or subjugated immigrant group that was struggling to be accepted by those who had immigrated one, two or three generations before them. America is a nation of immigrants and American literature is finally beginning to express this, without as much of the exclusionary literary academic influences. The transition of an immigrant into and "American" in the self is frequently one of the most important and influential expression of literature, from Latino American literature, to Asian American immigrant expressions."
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"The Miller's Tale", 2008.
This paper discusses "The Miller's Tale" in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" in terms of Chaucer's focus on gender construction and sexual tone.
1,138 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how "The Miller's Tale" in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" has occupied serious significance in the world of literature and literary rhetoric. The paper explains that many question the gender construction in the tale and that some have raised queries about Chaucer's focus on private parts and sexual encounters in the tales. The paper further explains that the Miller in the poem is introduced in vivid physical terms and his physical features are explained in bold letters as to set the tone for the tale. This happens because Chaucer wants to introduce a character that is most concerned with the physical side of relationships as we learn in the tale. This paper concentrates on explaining this.
From the Paper
"Another interesting way of lending decency to the tale was by reversing the role of authors. In Miller's tale it is not the men merely who are authors of dirty jokes, instead Alisoun is as much a part of that as any man. 'Now hust, and thou shalt laughen al thy fille' (3722). Alisoun is not restricted by her gender duties and restrictions. This is one device or method by means of which Chaucer reverses patriarchic system and introduced women liberation. Along with this, it adds art to what could have been a long explicit tale of sexual rendezvous.
"There is one more striking feature of the tale that shows how Miller's tale turns into a work of art. Throughout the tale the author is more interested in showing the preparation for encounters and method of courtly love than in actual sexual scenes. For example Absolon loves Alisoun in the courtly sense. He wants to be her lover not in the bed alone and in fact doesn't try hard to pursue Alisoun for sexual favors. As Kolve puts it, 'What earnest trespasser upon a marriage would go sing to the wife at an hour when the husband lies beside her in their bed?' (187)."
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The Mexican Borderlands, 2008.
A literary and contemporary review of the Mexican Borderlands.
5,147 words (approx. 20.6 pages), 19 sources, MLA, $ 128.95
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Abstract
This paper reflects facts and feelings about the life of people on the border between the U.S. and Mexico. The approach taken in this research is to review the present day realities of the borderlands - some of those realities being harsh and even brutal - as well as learn what authors and poets and scholars have written about the preceding experiences of people on the borderlands. It contends that the themes that are presented - some sentimental, some poetic, others realistic and historical - are very important to the understanding of the borderland experience.
Outline
Introduction
Present Borderland Realities
Borderlands Experiences Viewed Through Literature
Borderlands Viewed Through History & Scholarship
From the Paper
"When it comes to the unsolved murders in Ciudad Juarez, the numbers of dead and missing vary dramatically, and change frequently. But it is a known fact that over the past sixteen or so years, hundreds of young women have been murdered, raped, dragged to remote desert graves, and in many cases mutilated in and around Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, just across a bridge from El Paso, Texas. The unsolved heinous killings fall under three categories: they are ethnic ("racial") because the women are all Latino (Mexican); they are of a class nature because the great majority of women are working class individuals - low income employees - who are employed in the maquiladora; and third, they are of a sexual / gender nature because all the victims are women"
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Discourse of "Desire" in 'The Diviners', 2008.
This paper discusses the concept of satisfying desire by looking within, by looking at the discourse of 'desire' in Margaret Laurence's "The Diviners".
1,277 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that in Margaret Laurence's 1975 novel 'The Diviners', desire becomes a vehicle of feminist and personal liberation for the middle-aged protagonist, Morag Gunn. The writer notes that more than anything, Morag desires to find a true, rather than a false identity. The writer maintains that it is not the content of her work, but Margaret Laurence's wisdom, mixed with irony and humor, that brings insight to the reader. The writer concludes that the author writes in favor of a mature decision to cease to yearn for external change, and to satisfy one's desire through internal reflection.
From the Paper
"But it is not movement that gives her peace. Rather it is actively seeking peaceful solitude within, not finding elevated social status or fulfillment in her marital or extramarital relationships. Changing her external geography is not a complete form of self-actualization for the protagonist. The novel stresses that the liberating power of desire is not only found in sexuality or a change of place for a woman, but simply a desire to achieve a complete sense of identity and selfhood in solitude can be just as empowering.
"Morag's desire for authentic selfhood shows her continually wrestling with what society construes as status, and what she believes has real worth and merit. For example, initially, Morag sought her self-actualization through her desire to experience life outside of a provincial town and outside of a life limited by education. But this mode of liberation became stifling because of the relationship she had with her husband, even though he taught at a university. She was still constrained by feelings of inferiority and a sense that she was not living her own life."
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Niccolo Machiavelli's "The Prince", 2008.
Applies strategies presented by Niccolo Machiavelli in his classic "The Prince" to modern business.
2,085 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 65.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Niccolo Machiavelli's "The Prince" offers a scientific code of action, which distinctly covers axioms for leadership and the leadership process that are relevant today in the business environment. The paper also points out, however, that there are temporal limitations affecting certain validities of Machiavelli's work, especially around his acceptance of war to answer all problems and his belief that all men are evil. Nevertheless, the paper concludes that the concepts that Machiavelli details in his book can be used to motivate an organization's employee, to find ways by which employee productivity can be increased, and to find strategic actions by which the leader's strategic vision can be developed on the market, towards reaching a high level of profitability and, generally, towards increasing the performances of the company.
From the Paper
"Both today and in Machiavelli's times, a cost opportunity evaluation would have helped the decision making process. In using in-house activities, you are able to follow more closely on the production process and better coordinate it. The employees are likely to be more committed in their "fight", to pay more attention to detail and perform better. On the other hand, you cannot use them for other activities, you are limited in your range of activities (as in Machiavelli's times, you took these people away from their fields, for example)."
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"The Great Gatsby", 2008.
This paper focuses on F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby" in order to demonstrate that this classic American novel was representative of themes particularly prevalent during the 1920s.
915 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the history of the United States during the 20th century as being one of upheaval, desperation, affluence, and wars. According to the essay, one of the most fascinating eras during this stormy century is the 1920s, also known as the Roaring Twenties or the Jazz Age. This is the focus of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby". In this novel, the character of Daisy represents the spirit of this wild decade. As the socialite of the novel, she attends all the parties she can and acts as Gatsby's constant companion. However, she is also representative of how unhappy even the rich could be when finally realizing that the meaning of life could not be found only by partying. In this, Fitzgerald created the classic American novel that addresses the particular themes that were prevalent during the 1920s. Indeed, Fitzgerald's own life could be seen as a case study serving as a model for the novel.
From the Paper
"The affluence during this time also led to a boost in consumerism (Wright, 2000). Competition between manufacturers increased, with radio and print advertising reaching new heights. Automobiles became important elements of family life and also of Fitzgerald's novels. As such, they were symbols of the prosperity of the time. Perhaps the basic shallowness of the lifestyle during this time with its fleeting pleasures serves a prophetic function in terms of the Great Depression to come. This initial excitement and later disillusion can be seen in the parallels between of the era with both Gatsby's story and Fitzgerald's life. The characters at the beginning of the novel are optimistic and happy, enjoying their wealth and free time. As they move through the novel, their disillusionment with the inadequacy and shallowness of their lifestyle becomes increasingly obvious. The same happens for Fitzgerald himself.
"According to Matthew J. Bruccoli's brief biography (1994), Fitzgerald began his career as writer by submitting stories to mass-circulation magazines in 1919. There is a poetic significance in this beginning. His career begins with a sense of optimism and success, like the 1920s, and like Gatsby's story. During this time, The Saturday Evening Post was his best market, for which Fitzgerald's stories often featured the character of an independent, determined young American woman. This was a suitable preliminary to Fitzgerald's sudden success during 1920."
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"The Book of the Courtesans", 2008.
This essay is a book review of Susan Griffin's, "The Book of the Courtesans: A Catalogue of Their Virtues".
830 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This essay discusses Susan Griffin's book "The Book of the Courtesans: A Catalogue of Their Virtues" as a deep and penetrating look into the history of the courtesan profession. The author asserts that Griffin's primary contention in this book is that courtesans have a special place in history; they were neither prostitutes nor part of the immoral underground of European society, but rather a prominent display of femininity during many different eras of Western history. The author also gives a positive personal opinion towards the book.
From the Paper
"Griffin's book focuses on many different stylistic and literary techniques that help to make this both an entertaining and fluid narrative. Her organization of the book is very succinct; she offers the purpose of her book in the introduction by stating clearly that she intends to explain the artistic and aesthetic nature of the courtesan. She continues to advance this position through each following chapter and makes her organizational scheme very understandable. Each chapter works to enhance her position and defend her thesis. Although it may appear through this review that her work is academic in nature, the opposite is true. She carefully hides her thesis and the progression of her 'evidence' through the narrative biographies of famous courtesans throughout the ages. She tells the stories of Veronica Franco of 16th century Venice, Madame de Pompadour of Versailles and many other such courtesans who were able to entrench themselves into the heart of Western society. Through their stories she shows how they practiced their craft and were able to gain 'liberation' from society as a result of their prowess. Her story telling technique makes this narrative extremely digestible and makes her arguments very subtly throughout her work."
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