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Analyzing Hamlet, Macbeth and King Lear, 2006.
This well-researched paper analyzes the common characteristic flaws shared by the title characters in William Shakespeare's classic plays: "Hamlet," "Macbeth" and "The Tragedy of King Lear."
2,495 words (approx. 10.0 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
This paper details the many common elements of kingship, ascendancy to the throne, issues of loyalty as well as the plots in Shakespeare's classic tragedies "Hamlet," "Macbeth" and "The Tragedy of King Lear." This paper gives a detailed character analysis of Macbeth, King Lear and Hamlet and examines their common motivations and flaws. The writer of this paper explores the nature of each character, who are all basically good and noble men struggling for basic morality. This paper also describes their eventual spiritual revelation, which arrives just before death.
From the Paper
"By the end of act II, Hamlet has doubts about the ghost. Did his father come back to right a wrong or is it a devil urging him to do evil?Compelled to confirm the ghost's testimony, he arranges to have a local troupe reenact the murder before the court in order to test Claudius' reaction. Hamlet, completely controlled and rational says: I'll have grounds More relative than this. The play's the thing Wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King." And his suspicions are confirmed, but still he delays the execution of Claudius. He even refuses to kill the king, when opportunity presents itself and the king is at prayer. Hamlet questions the very nature of humankind. He extends his mistrust to everyone, including Ophelia and his friends from school."
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The Use of Rhetoric in "The Merchant of Venice", 2006.
An analysis of the use of language to modify and influence events in William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice".
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper examines numerous examples of rhetoric in William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice". This paper focuses on two characters and their use of language to persuade others to act in a certain way, as well as on Shakespeare's use of those characters to sway the reader. The author first explores Portia's character and her use of rhetoric for control. Next he studies Shakespeare's use of rhetoric for mercy, as seen through the character of Shylock.
From the Paper
"Let's evaluate the scene where Portia and Bassanio are before the caskets where Bassanio must make his choice. The dialogue directly proceeding the finding of the casket is basic lover's speech, but wait! Listen carefully to what Portia says: "If you do love me, you will find me out" (III ii 41). Portia leads Bassanio to believe that the choice he makes in the caskets his own. She leads the reader to believe that Bassanio's love for her is the only force which leads to the discovery of the correct casket. However, earlier when Portia is speaking of the preparations for the casket choice, she speaks of music which is to be played while Bassanio makes his choice. Ok, this seems innocent enough; but examine the song -- the first two lines of the song rhyme with lead. It doesn't take long for the subliminal message to be absorbed in Bassanios brain, and the lead casket is chosen. This manipulative device is an indication to me that Portia has a need to make things go her way. She is afraid that Bassanio will make the wrong choice, and therefore assists him."
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"King Lear", 2006.
An analysis of Shakespeare's play "King Lear".
1,788 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 0 sources, $ 57.95
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Abstract
The paper compares the characters of King Lear and the Earl of Gloucester and their treatment of their children, and demonstrates that one of the play's themes is "knowledge is power" by showing how ignorance leads to powerlessness for the two men. The paper briefly discusses Shakespeare's treatment of nature and the animal world, then focuses on motherhood. In conclusion, the writer finds that the play is so meaningful that it is impossible to grasp it all in a single reading, which may be a measure of its greatness.
From the Paper
"Moralists usually mean the control over the passions when they speak of the natural order. King Lear is unable to control his passions, and is subject to rages that lead him to commit foolish and vengeful acts that lead to his own and others' destruction. In a sense, Gloucester disrupted the natural order when he fathered a son out of wedlock. It is significant that this is the son who betrays him."
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Lear's Journey of Self-Discovery, 2006.
This paper analyzes William Shakespeare's "The Tragedy of King Lear" and describes how the title character is taken on a journey of self-discovery.
1,408 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper details the plot of Shakespeare's "The Tragedy of King Lear" and asserts that from the first scene it is clear that Lear lacks basic self-knowledge and that his ignorance of his own true nature is to blame for his many problems. This writer of this paper also focuses on Lear's journey of self-discovery and ponders whether his unhealthy imagination was the root cause of his eventual insanity.
From the Paper
"Lear's new, clearer self-perception coincides with his growing madness. Just at the moment when freshly gained self-knowledge allows him greater empathy and knowledge of others, his mind, already perceived by others in the play to be failing, degenerates further. This leads to an odd vacillation between verity and delusion, or as Edgar later comments, "matter and impertinency mix'd, reason in madness." It is in this period that Lear makes some of his most stabbingly accurate self-assesments, and although here his imagination seems to go most awry, progress is actually made."
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Adolescents in Literature, 2006.
This paper details the similarities and differences in the portrayal of adolescents over the span of 400 years in William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" and John Knowles' "A Separate Peace."
1,485 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper examines the depiction of adolescents in two particular works of literature written within a span of 400 years. This paper explores the key emotional factors of the teenage characters of both novels and details the similarities and difference in both works of writing. The writer asserts that when Shakespeare wrote "Romeo and Juliet" the average life span was much shorter than it is today, which resulted in teens assuming more adult responsibilities at a far younger age. This paper also delves into teenage infatuation and romance and examines whether these particular emotions and feelings have changed over the years. This paper contains relevant plot and character information for both "Romeo and Juliet" and "A Separate Peace."
From the Paper
"Those who would argue that teenagers today are much different than those Shakespeare describes could point to the fact that the Renaissance adolescents took themselves much m ore seriously. Critics of my position might point out that Romeo and Juliet is about real love and A Separate Peace isn't about love at all. However, I must point out that in this modern novel, where modern teenagers interact in many ways, they never seem to think or talk much about girls, and yet there is still-without any homosexual overtones-a story of romantic passion. Gene loves Finny much as Romeo loves Juliet. As with all infatuated teenagers, much of their love is in their minds. Their feelings get confused; they act reflexively, unthinkingly, immaturely; and Romeo, Juliet, and Finny all end up dead."
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Baz Luhrmann's "Romeo and Juliet", 2006.
This paper analyzes and critique's Baz Luhrman's 1996 film version of William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet."
1,493 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper examines director Baz Luhrman's modern day film version of "Romeo and Juliet." The writer of this paper states that the film version of Shakespeare's classic sets the story in a modernized Verona that bears no physical resemblance to the play's original setting and also goes on to note that in order to keep the film down to less than two hours, much of the original text had been cut. This paper compares the film version to the original text of the play and states the pros and cons of trying to improve upon a classic.
From the Paper
"In the interests of keeping the movie less than two hours in length, many of the lines have been cut from the original version. What remains, then, is dialogue that is sufficient for transmitting the basic conflicts within each character. What is interesting, however, is to determine to what extent these lines have been trimmed and to observe that the story's emphasis shifts in the film version as a result of the revisions. First we see an enhancement of Romeo's character by virtue of the fact that his internal struggles are more pronounced than those of Juliet."
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"Othello" and "The Turn of the Screw", 2006.
A comparison between William Shakespeare's "Othello" and Henry James' "The Turn of the Screw".
2,103 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 66.95
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Abstract
The paper compares the two primary characters whose delusions provide the basis for the drama within each literary piece. The paper explains that in "Othello", Iago brings about the tragic events in the play, while in "The Turn of the Screw", the delusions of the governess provides the suspense. The paper describes how these distorted views of reality within each character exert their influence through their acceptance by central characters within the story as well as by the authors of such delusions. In conclusion, the writer posits that the illusions in both these stories creates a heightened effect within each story. The writer explains that this effect draws the readers in so that they feel compelled to seek the truth of the story.
From the Paper
"The story itself is set up with mystery and intrigue before her first sight of this apparition. We know further that the governess who relates the tale dies, but her death is shrouded in mystery. It must be remembered that the children of these parents had been killed, then the uncle and aunt of these children entrusted with their care were also killed, leaving the responsibility of their care to the son of the deceased relatives. It is known the son, the master of Bly, rarely visits the children, and makes as minimal an amount of contact as possible with them. We wonder as well as with the governess for why he seeks to make as little contact as possible with Bly estate and the children. The delusion of the governess is given further basis in reality when she discovers from Mrs. Grose that the former governess to these children , Miss Jessel, as well as the master's valet who had been in charge of the children, Peter Quint, had also died. From all these deaths, it becomes no wonder why the master of Bly avoids the place and avoids contact with these children as if they were the plague. The common link of all these deaths draws compelling evidence that there is something very strange about these children. Is there a curse which falls upon any who come into contact with these children? The reader is drawn into the delusion that there may be a hidden and unspoken evil that is present with these children who appear like "angels". The answer is never revealed as to the real reason for these apparitions, if they ever existed at all except in the mind of the governess. Were the ghosts of Miss Jessel and Peter Quint seeking to corrupt or destroy Miles and Flora or were they there to seek revenge against the wrongful deaths inflicted upon them somehow by these children? That answer too is never revealed completely to the satisfaction of the reader."
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"Measure for Measure", 2005.
This paper discusses the role of Pompey in William Shakespeare's dark comedy "Measure for Measure".
1,595 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in William Shakespeare's "Measure for Measure", one character, Pompey Bum, servant of Mistress Overdone, a bawd, serves better than the other characters to highlight the impossible hypocrisy of the play's social situation in which the Viennese legal system conflicts with human nature when public law forbids illicit lovemaking and makes the crime punishable by death. The author points out that Pompey appears at first to be a minor character; however, if Pompey were different, or even absent, the play's weighty morality might well outstrip Shakespeare's need for humor in this hybrid creation. The paper relates the story of the play demonstrating that Pompey's attitude extends beyond the current themes of virtue and morals and moves into the realm of accepting the inevitable that people will always strive to satisfy themselves especially their sexual desires.
From the Paper
"Throughout the play, Pompey's attitude carries this universal perspective. In his next scene, he is meeting with Lord Escalus in less than fortunate circumstance. A constable named Elbow drags Pompey and a gentleman named Froth in front of old Escalus and Angelo. The latter have just been arguing the virtues of moderation, with Escalus bemoaning the severity of the new law: "Some rise by sin, and some by virtue fall...and some condemned for a fault alone." When Elbow accuses Pompey of being a "tapster," Escalus quickly notices Elbow's ineloquence and gives Pompey the opportunity to defend himself."
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Shakespeare's "Othello", 2006.
An analysis of Act II, Scene 1 of William Shakespeare's play, "Othello" and the character of Desdemona.
1,095 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper examines Act II, Scene 1 of "Othello" in an attempt to shed some light on the character of Desdemona. The paper analyzes her character and discusses her motives for marrying Othello as well as whether she is really the weak, clinging vine sort of woman of her time that most people assume. The paper also questions whether she is as naive as is assumed and what is the true nature of her marriage to Othello.
From the Paper
"If Desdemona is truly color-blind, having married the moor, Othello, then Iago, with his allusions to "white" and "black" subtly reminds her of the difference. From the very beginning of the scene, when Cassio, as a gesture of courtesy and respect, kisses Desdemona, and she does not resist (even though it is obviously a chaste kiss), Iago has his flashpoint for his cunning ploy to unsettle his commander, and to break that marriage apart."
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Desdemona and Othello, 2006.
A literary review of "Othello", by William Shakespeare.
1,287 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 0 sources, $ 43.95
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Abstract
The paper focuses on the character Desdemona, who defends her love for Othello. It explains that Desdemona's father felt she had been seduced by trickery, as he could not understand that she loved a black man. The writer explains that there have been different opinions as to whether Shakespeare was trying to make a moral statement casting Othello as a black man, or whether it was simply historical fact. The writer posits that one of the main themes of the play is Desdemona's defiance of tradition, and that race is coincidental. The paper explains that the play is usually described to be about jealousy. In conclusion, the writer posits that Shakespeare meant the jealousy as a personification of the irrational evil of hatred.
From the Paper
"She closes by stating how much she will miss Othello if he must go and she must stay. Desdemona emerges in this act, through this speech and the one before (in which she explains how divided her loyalties are) as a mature and considerate woman with a depth of intelligence that goes beyond surface adolescent infatuation. She has clearly considered the significance of her marriage to Othello, and is confident in her choice. She has the courage of her convictions and makes no attempt to shy away from whatever unpleasant consequences may come from her marriage, whether it be physical danger or the emotional torment of a rift between her and her father. "She uses words that have great strength and depth to express her feelings, which are always presented as extreme, perhaps the only hint the playwright gives about her youth and a tendency toward the dramatic. Yet in this brief speech, she belies any accusation of melodrama and eloquently demonstrates that she has given full thought to her marriage."
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?A Midsummer Night?s Dream?, 2006.
This paper explores William Shakespeare's use of mythology in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and details the four main strands within his play.
1,355 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper analyzes the four main sub-stories found in Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream' and proves that this play is more than just a discussion of mortals and humans but also a story based on Greek and Roman mythology. This paper also ponders the reasons Shakespeare incorporated mythology into his play, including his desire to appeal to a diverse audience.
From the Paper
"According to one story in mythology, which Shakespeare uses in A Midsummer Night's Dream is that of Pyramus and Thisbe who are forbidden from marrying by their parents. This is similar to Theseus and Egeus who give Lysander and Hermia trouble. This is where the similarities end (Midsummer Madness). In the mythological tale, Pyramus and Thisbe agreed to meet under the mulberry tree. "Thisbe, who arrived first was scared by a lion and fled, dropping her veil which the lion smeared with blood, and Pyramus, on finding it, believed Thisbe to be dead and killed himself. Thisbe returned and found the tragic sight, in turn killing herself." Prior to the death of the lovers, the mulberry's fruit was white."
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"Hamlet", 2005.
This paper examines the question of Hamlet's sanity in Shakespeare's play.
1,470 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the question of Hamlet's sanity in Shakespeare's play "Hamlet" is complex and encompasses various themes within the work, such as what seems to be is often not what it really is, which is a theme often used by Shakespeare, as in "Macbeth". The author points out that Ophelia's main function in the play is to be used as a distinct reference to see clearly what insanity is and to stand in comparison with what Hamlet is acting out. The paper concludes that Shakespeare wanted Hamlet to be an ordinary real man living under extraordinary circumstances; therefore, Shakespeare showed (1) what transpires in Hamlet's very soul with human flaws of indecision and being unable to cope completely with the surmounting odds and (2) how, during this process, this man grows and learns the answer to the question "to be or not to be" is just "let be".
From the Paper
"So why aren't these men thought mad to have seen a ghost, since Hamlet is declared mad for seeing his father's ghost? The ghost was real. Shakespeare often uses ghosts, like in "Julius Ceasar", when Brutus is visited by the ghost of Ceasar, Banquo's ghosts in "Macbeth" at the banquet, and "Richard III" when the king sees the ghosts of his victims. These ghosts have different functions in each of these plays, but, in "Hamlet", the ghost is a catalyst for action, asking for revenge, but since the ghost appears at the beginning, the ghost is a type of prologue device."
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