Essay --

In the novel skipper of the Flies, one of the main characters dump Merridew is said to represent the instinct of savagery, violence, the desire for position and evil. In the beginning of the novel, Jack desires power and authority over all things. Jack also retained a sense of moral politeness and manner that society instilled in him. But soon, Jack becomes obsessed with hunting and devotes himself to the task, becoming very atavistic or animal like. As the novel continues, Jack becomes more savage, strengthening his ability to lead the group. Jacks thirst for authority and violence are closely connected as both characteristics allow him to recover powerful. By the end of the novel, Jack has discovered that the boys fear of the beast is useful in controlling their manner. Over the course of the boys time on the island, Jacks behavior has experienced a significant transformation due to neglect of civilization, primitive acts and cruelty towards others. One of the major develop ments in Jacks behavior during his time on the island was loosing touch of the civilized world. In the beginning of the novel, Jack gives off the impression that he is willing to consent with the group before making any decisions. He does this in such ways as allowing the group of boys to elect either Ralph or himself as chief, and rationalizes with Ralph to settle any disputes. As Lord of the Flies continues, Jack creates difficulties for the boys, many of which would not be accepted in civilization. For example, in chapter 10 Jack attacks the hut Ralph and piggy were sleeping in and steals Piggys glasses in order to kindle a fire on his side of the island. Golding writes He was a chief now in true statement and he made From his left hand dangled Piggys broken... ...s to keep watch of it, so it wouldnt go come out of the closet. Jack also presents acts of cruelty in chapters 10 and 11 when Jack orders his savages to tie up and capture Wilfred, Sam and Eric so Jack can beat them assimilating irresponsible authority. Jacks constant beatings and cruelty towards the other boys in the group has advanced throughout the novel, going from name calling and mocking to physically beating and killing. In summation, Jack Merridews desire for authority, power and violence overcame his knowledge of civilization throughout William Goldings novel Lord of the Flies. Jacks transformations were built off of his lack of civilization, primitive acts and ruthlessness towards others. Jack represented a dictatorship and evil on the island. Jacks behavior changes were not for the better, but for the worst, bringing out the worst in him, as well as the other boys.

Wide Ivory Woman :: Antigone Sophocles Plato Statue Papers

Wide Ivory WomanYou are a wide charwoman sculpted out of one large warm block of bead colored, lightly plainlyterscotch speckled stone you are distinctly and beautifully human, yet bigger than life. I look up at you but do not know precisely what it is that you urge me to question. You are a maiden of Menedi, a statue presumably molded of Greek hands in the mid-fourth speed of light B.C. You are seated at a thickly cushioned throne fashioned of the same ivory marble as that of your body, your head titled downward, your visit slightly crouched. Your profiled torso and the throne together are about four feet in height and both in width your throne rests on a pedestal that I estimate to be still another two feet high. To take you in, then, I must tilt my head upward, as I do now.I can checker that you are clearly distinguishable from the uncut granite behind you your surface is static, as is that of the throne. You are veiled and wear over your mold a single covering, cut qu ite low on the neck, which flows over the crevices of your broad body. You make shadows with your veil, which creases and folds and drapes over your limbs and the throne itself. You are ample in sign and abundantly large, even imposing, in stature you are maidenly, silent, reservedly pensive. You appear rounded, while the throne at which you sit is austerely rectangular. Your right breast protrudes by your clothing, very round, the nipple palpable and ample. Your distinctiveness is not one of elaborate detail your face has no eyeballs, your skin no wrinkles, your body no bones. I stand before you and, humbled, read that you once presided over the grave of a warrior, but I cannot breed what you mean to war. You are too tranquil for spears and melodic phrase and armor, sitting there on your softly padded throne in that otherworldly gentle direction of yours. I see, then, that you are larger than war. I see that you tell of what comes of battle, of the ancient Greek concept of af terlife, of classical women and deity and strength.Your white eyes without their eyeballs are huge and empty, but very open your slightly split lips are thick. You are dressed in a long, flowing garment that ripples over your flawlessly smooth body. Features such as these are characteristic of Egyptian royal and divine iconography of the Hellenistic period, the era that produced you.Wide Ivory Woman Antigone Sophocles Plato Statue PapersWide Ivory WomanYou are a wide woman sculpted out of one large solid block of ivory colored, lightly butterscotch speckled stone you are distinctly and beautifully human, yet larger than life. I look up at you but do not know precisely what it is that you urge me to question. You are a maiden of Menedi, a statue presumably molded of Greek hands in the mid-fourth century B.C. You are seated at a thickly cushioned throne fashioned of the same ivory marble as that of your body, your head titled downward, your figure slightly crouched. Your profiled torso and the throne together are about four feet in height and two in width your throne rests on a pedestal that I estimate to be still another two feet high. To take you in, then, I must tilt my head upward, as I do now.I can see that you are clearly distinguishable from the uncut granite behind you your surface is smooth, as is that of the throne. You are veiled and wear over your frame a single covering, cut quite low on the neck, which flows over the crevices of your broad body. You make shadows with your veil, which creases and folds and drapes over your limbs and the throne itself. You are ample in feature and abundantly large, even imposing, in stature you are maidenly, silent, reservedly pensive. You appear rounded, while the throne at which you sit is austerely rectangular. Your right breast protrudes through your clothing, very round, the nipple palpable and huge. Your distinctiveness is not one of elaborate detail your face has no eyeballs, your skin no wrinkles, your bo dy no bones. I stand before you and, humbled, read that you once presided over the grave of a warrior, but I cannot comprehend what you mean to war. You are too tranquil for spears and blood and armor, sitting there on your softly padded throne in that otherworldly gentle manner of yours. I see, then, that you are larger than war. I see that you tell of what comes of battle, of the ancient Greek concept of afterlife, of classical women and deity and strength.Your white eyes without their eyeballs are huge and empty, but very open your slightly parted lips are thick. You are dressed in a long, flowing garment that ripples over your flawlessly smooth body. Features such as these are characteristic of Egyptian royal and divine iconography of the Hellenistic period, the era that produced you.

Free Essays - The Metamorphosis of Holden in Sallingers Catcher in the Rye :: Catcher Rye Essays

The Metamorphosis of Holden in Sallingers Catcher in the Rye     In J.D. Sallingers Catcher in the Rye, is based on the sullen life of Holden Caulfield, a 16-year-old teen-ager is trying to find his sense of direction. Holden, a growing adult, cannot accept the responsibilities of an adult. Eventually tangibleizing that thither is no way to avoid the adult life, he can whole but accept this alternative lifestyle. What Holden describes the adult initiation as a sinful, tainted life, he avoids it for three important reasons His hatred towards phonies and liars, unable to accept adult responsibilities, and thirdly to enshrine his childhood youth.   Holden uses the word phony to identify everything in the macrocosm that he rejects or encounters with. People are too talkative, too quiet, or dissimilar. Holden, himself, believes he is this perfect person, but no one believes that he is. This is why Holden believes he is surrounded by phoniness. For example, O ssenburger of Pencey Prep, emphasizes that he talked to Jesus all the time, even when he was driving his car. Holden thinks this is a load of crap and asserts, that killed me. I just see the plumping phony bastard shifting into first gear and asking Jesus to send him a few more stiffs (17). Holden sees why he would pray to Jesus, solely to send him some more dead bodies to get more business. Not only do phonies bug Holden, but liars and crooks. Another example is Sunny and Maurice, the ski lift boy. Maurice offers Holden a prostitute for the night, Innarested in having a little tail tnight (90)? Holden decides to take up on this offer, and later that night, as promised Sunny knocks at his door. After entranceway the room, Holden cannot make a decision to sleep with the prostitute, an example of Holden clinging on to his childhood. He instead pays the prostitute for her trouble getting to his room, but after leaving, she barges back in with Maurice, complaining of how l ittle she got. Maurice roughs up Holden and gets to his money, where Holden thinks more deprecate towards phonies and liars. Realizing what a legitimate phony and liar people bound to be growing up, he decides to avoids the real world Free Essays - The Metamorphosis of Holden in Sallingers Catcher in the Rye Catcher Rye Essays The Metamorphosis of Holden in Sallingers Catcher in the Rye     In J.D. Sallingers Catcher in the Rye, is based on the sullen life of Holden Caulfield, a 16-year-old teen-ager is trying to find his sense of direction. Holden, a growing adult, cannot accept the responsibilities of an adult. Eventually realizing that there is no way to avoid the adult life, he can only but accept this alternative lifestyle. What Holden describes the adult world as a sinful, subvert life, he avoids it for three important reasons His hatred towards phonies and liars, unable to accept adult responsibilities, and thirdly to enshrine his childhood youth. & nbsp Holden uses the word phony to identify everything in the world that he rejects or encounters with. People are too talkative, too quiet, or dissimilar. Holden, himself, believes he is this perfect person, but no one believes that he is. This is why Holden believes he is surrounded by phoniness. For example, Ossenburger of Pencey Prep, emphasizes that he talked to Jesus all the time, even when he was driving his car. Holden thinks this is a load of crap and asserts, that killed me. I just see the liberal phony bastard shifting into first gear and asking Jesus to send him a few more stiffs (17). Holden sees why he would pray to Jesus, only to send him some more dead bodies to get more business. Not only do phonies bug Holden, but liars and crooks. Another example is Sunny and Maurice, the rise boy. Maurice offers Holden a prostitute for the night, Innarested in having a little tail tnight (90)? Holden decides to take up on this offer, and later that night, as promised Sunny knocks at his door. After go in the room, Holden cannot make a decision to sleep with the prostitute, an example of Holden clinging on to his childhood. He instead pays the prostitute for her trouble getting to his room, but after leaving, she barges back in with Maurice, complaining of how little she got. Maurice roughs up Holden and gets to his money, where Holden thinks more deprecate towards phonies and liars. Realizing what a real phony and liar people bound to be growing up, he decides to avoids the real world

The Argument Essay: Just Dont Do It! -- Argumentative Persuasive Topi

The Argument Paper Just Dont Do It English 101 is incredibly challenging and overwhelming to the typical college student. A record reflective essay, an expository essay, a novel, and the Nelson-Denny Reading Comprehension test are all crammed into ten weeks of backbreaking work. However, the most intolerable assignment of all has non even been mentioned yet the argument paper Students run around shrieking and cursing when they are handed the assignment. Most of them are enveloped by insanity during the composition process. When I mentioned the dreaded argument paper to a fellow classmate, he said that he felt my pain. English 101 students should not be infallible to write an argument paper because it is detrimental to their emotional well-being. Some people may think it necessary to know how to write an argument paper. Everyone will moderate to do it at least once in his or her life, and Freshman English is the place to learn how. But that is not the case. In truth, I mystify never heard of anyone writing an argument paper unless he or she is required to by law or is plannin...

We Must Fight Eating Disorders and Low Self-esteem Essay -- media and

Some people observe contradict images of themselves whilst gazing back in the mirror because of subliminal advertising, mental health, and unconscious habits. The individuals staring back from the mirror at them are not real. Often times society disregards reality that no one possesses the perfect body because everyone is unique. Unfortunately, people who experience body dissatisfaction have a hard time grasping this concept of everyone being unique consequently, they move into in life threatening problematic solutions to achieve their desired body.Eating disorders are abnormal eat habits because of the preoccupation with food and weight management (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2005). multitude with eating disorders have compulsions with the need to be ultra thin involving excessive or insufficient food intakes that become detrimental to an individuals physical, social and emotional health. though eating disorders were rare until the early twentieth century, they certainly existed beforeha nd in the twelfth century. Eating disorders in the twelfth century have many similarities and differences of eating disorders today. Between the twelfth and thirteen centuries eating disorders originated from Catherine of Siena, who started a massive fast and cut her hair in order to make a statement. Through her life style change she made a statement that Christ should be the center of ones life and cutting off her hair was a protest against being besides encouraged to improve appearance in order to attract a husband (Deans, 2011). Who knew fasting would evolve from a religious practice meant to stimulate a covenant relationship with the Lord, into a life threatening practice to lose weight. For instance, in the 1800s eating disorders began af... ...rstanding eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating (2008). U.S national library of medicine. Retrieved November 14, 2013, from http//www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/spring08/articles/spring08pg17-19.html Ve rplanken, B., & Velsvik, R.. Habitual negative body image thinking as psychological risk factor in adolescents . ScienceDirect.com Search through over 11 million science, health, medical journal full text articles and books. Retrieved October 15, 2013, from http//www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1740144507001180bib30?np=y doi10.1016.2007.11.001What can you do to help prevent eating disorders? What can you do to help prevent eating disorders? National Eating Disorders Association. Retrieved November 16, 2013, from http//www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/what-can-you-do-help-prevent-eating-disorders

We Must Fight Eating Disorders and Low Self-esteem Essay -- media and

Some people observe negative images of themselves whilst gazing back in the mirror because of subliminal advertising, mental health, and unconscious habits. The individuals staring back from the mirror at them atomic number 18 not real. Often times society disregards reality that no one possesses the perfect body because everyone is unique. Unfortunately, people who experience body dissatisfaction have a hard time grasping this concept of everyone being unique consequently, they participate in animateness threatening problematic solutions to achieve their desired body.Eating disorders are abnormal eating habits because of the preoccupation with food and weight management (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2005). People with eating disorders have compulsions with the need to be ultra thin involving excessive or insufficient food intakes that become detrimental to an individuals physical, social and emotional health. Though eating disorders were rare until the early twentieth century, they certainl y existed beforehand in the one-twelfth century. Eating disorders in the twelfth century have many similarities and differences of eating disorders today. Between the twelfth and thirteen centuries eating disorders originated from Catherine of Siena, who started a massive fast and hop her hair in order to make a statement. Through her lifestyle change she made a statement that Christ should be the center of ones life and cutting off her hair was a protest against being overly encouraged to improve appearance in order to attract a save (Deans, 2011). Who knew fasting would evolve from a religious practice meant to stimulate a covenant relationship with the Lord, into a life threatening practice to lose weight. For instance, in the 1800s eating disorders began af... ...rstanding eating disorders, anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating (2008). U.S national library of medicine. Retrieved November 14, 2013, from http//www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/spring08/articles/spring 08pg17-19.html Verplanken, B., & Velsvik, R.. Habitual negative body image thinking as psychological risk factor in adolescents . ScienceDirect.com Search through over 11 million science, health, medical journal full text articles and books. Retrieved October 15, 2013, from http//www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1740144507001180bib30?np=y doi10.1016.2007.11.001What batch you do to help prevent eating disorders? What can you do to help prevent eating disorders? National Eating Disorders Association. Retrieved November 16, 2013, from http//www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/what-can-you-do-help-prevent-eating-disorders

Introduction to the Rajputs Essay

A Rajput is a member of one of the landowning patrilineal clans of central and northern India. Rajputs consider themselves descendants of one of the major ruling warrior groups of the Hindu Kshatriya varna ( complaisant order ) in the Indian subcontinent, particularly North India. The Rajputs rose to prominence during the 6th to 12th centuries, and until the 20th century Rajputs ruled in the overwhelming bulk of the princely states of Rajasthan and Saurashtra, where the largest number of princely states were found. They are divided into three major lineages. The Rajput empire imbue in many countries Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Southeast Asia and some parts of Tibet. The quartette Agnivanshi clans namely the Pariharas (Pratihara), Solankis (Chalukya dynasty) Paramaras and Chahamanas rose to prominence first, establishing territories and creating kingdoms. The Rajputs were mainly feudal lords under the over-lordship of the rulers belonging to Pratiharas a dynas ty that ruled until the 10th century. Gradually, they attain the status of independent rulers.Their dominion spread over most parts of north India. In the north-west region known as Rajputana, which comprises the present day Rajasthan and parts of Pakistan. The Rajput community comprised of the Chauhans of East Punjab, Yankee Rajasthan and Delhi, the Rathores of Uttar Pradesh, the Paramaras of Central India and the Tomars of Gwalior and later, Delhi. Of these the Chauhans and the Rathores were dominant clans. The Rajput though brave and chivalrous often succumbed to inter-clan rivalries, which proved advantageous for the Muslim rulers during the medieval period. The Rajputs being a dominant Hindu clan offered heavy resistance to the Muslim rulers who spread their rule over India during the medieval period. The Rajput princes maintained their own independent princely kingdoms. Some of the brave Rajput rulers who have been make their names eternal in Indian history are Prithviraj Ch auhan, Rana Kumbha, Rana Sangram Singh, Rana Udai Singh and Maharana Pratap. Prithviraj Chauhan proved to be the last Rajput ruler of Delhi.The Chauhans, led by Govinda, grandson of Prithviraj, later established a small state centered around Rathambore in present-day Rajasthan. The Rajput lifestyle was designed to foster a soldierly spirit, with work force even forging a bond with their sword. The double-edged scimitar known as the khanda was a popular weapon among the Rajputs of that era. On special occasions, primary chief would pass out up a meeting of his vassal chiefs with khanda nariyal, the distribution of daggers and coconuts. Many Rajputs are nostalgic about their past and keenly conscious of their genealogy, emphasizing a Rajput ethos that is martial in spirit, with a fierce pride in lineage and tradition.The Rajput rulers had a keen sense of beauty in art and architecture which is seen in the tasty excellence of their temples, forts and palaces. The Indo-Aryan style of architecture developed in North India and Upper Deccan and the Dravidian style in South India during the Rajput period. Both sculpture and architecture attained a high degree of excellence. e.g. The Rathas of Mahabalipuram or Mammallapuram, the Kailash temple at Ellora and the sculpture of Elephanta belonging to the early Rajput period ( 600 Ad to 900 AD ) The temple architecture of Orissa, Khajuraho, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and the Pallava, Chola and Hoysala temples in the South belong to the later Rajput period. ( 900 AD to 1200 AD )

factors affecting Demand and Supply Essay

In economics, Demand refers to the total of a keens or services that consumers ar allowing and able to buy at a presumptuousness footing in a given time period. The law of demand stipulates that there is an inverse relationship amid the expense of a approximate and the quantity demanded, that is to say, if the price of, say, advantageously X rises, it give decrease the quantity demanded of good X and the price of the good tops, this bequeath bring an expansion of the quantity demanded. The plot below clearly explains the above statementA movement on a demand curve only occurs when there is a modify in the price of the good in question. Some textbooks call these movements extensions and contractions. In the diagram below (Fig 1.1), when the price of CDs falls (from P1 to P2) there is a rise in demand (from Q1 to Q2), ceteris paribus. The movement on the curve is from point A to point B. When the price rises (from P1 to P3) there is a fall in demand (from Q1 to Q3), ce teris paribus.The movement along the curve is from point A to point C.Note that we must say ceteris paribus. If superstar of the other antigenic determinants of demand changes as well, then(prenominal) the curve would good luck.A shift in the demand curve occurs if one of the other (i.e. non-price) determinants of demand change. This means that for a given price level the quantity demanded will change. This is illustrated in the diagram belowFig 1.2Note that the price has not changed (P1) and yet demand has accessiond (in the case of the shift to D2) to Q2. This could be due to a rise in real incomes (assuming the good is normal see the required section in the Elasticities topic), a rise in the price of a substitute good, a fall in the price of a complement, etc. (see determinants of demand above). In the case of the shift to D3, demand has fallen even though the price hasremained constant.It is fairly open so far that the price of a good is a pretty strong determinant of its demand, but there are many other things that will affect demand too. First of all, the disposable income is one of the factors causing a shift in the demand curve. The effect that income has on the amount of a convergence that consumers are free and able to buy depends on the type of good were talking about. For most goods, there is a positive (direct) relationship between a consumers income and the amount of the good that one is willing and able to buy. In other words, for these goods when income rises the demand for the reaping will increase when income falls, the demand for the crop will decrease. The above is the case for normal goods. However, when there is an inverse relationship between ones income and the demand for that good, it is categorised as inferior good. other factor which is a determinant of demand is the price of related goods. As with income, the effect that the price of related good has on the amount that one is willing and able to buy depends on the type of good were talking about. Think about two goods that are typically consumed together, for example, tea and milk (complements). If the price of milk goes up, the Law of Demand tells us that people will be willing/able to buy less milk. But if we want less milk, we will also want to use tea and therefore, an increase in the price of milk means we want to purchase less tea. We can thus sum this by saying that when two goods are complements, there is an inverse relationship between the price of one good and the demand for the other good.A souls taste and preference is also one slightly obscure but very important determinant of demand. It could be noted that if a good becomes fashionable, this will boost up the demand. For example, if a celebrity endorses a new product (like Pepsi), this might increase the demand for the product. On the other hand, if a weightlift crops up, stating that the product is nefarious to health, this would decrease the demand of the product.An increase in th e population of a country will be another determinant ofdemand of a product. More people will mean more(prenominal) demand for, say, bread. Nonetheless, it should be noted that a change in the structure of the population, (an ageing population), this will increase the demand for some goods but reduce the demand for others. For example, the quantity of medical shoes will increase in an ageing population.Advertising is also potential to have a great impact on the demand of a product. Many of you probably doubt the rough-and-readyness of some of the appalling adverts on the TV. We whitethorn assume that companies would not spend fortunes on advertising if they did not expect to see a significant rise in demand for the product in question. This can be clearly shown when supermarkets advertise their price drop-downs, through flyers, TV adverts, radio et al.Some people always think of securing a better future. In so doing, if they expect the price of a good to rise in the future, they w ill more likely to demand for more of the product. For example, if we hear that Apple, the electronic giant, will soon introduce a new iPod that has more memory and longer battery life, people may decide to wait to buy an iPod until the new product comes out. This will surely decrease the demand for the current iPod as they will prefer the new ones.On the other hand, just like with demand, where it only became effective if it was backed up with the ability to pay, hang on is defined as the willingness and ability of producers to tot up goods and services on to a market at a given price in a given period of time. In theory, at higher prices a larger quantity will generally be supplied than at lower prices, ceteris paribus, and at lower prices a smaller quantity will generally be supplied than at higher prices, ceteris paribus.DiagramA movement along a cede curve only occurs when the price changes, ceteris paribus. In other words, the price changes but the other non-price determina nts remain constant. The diagram below shows that a price rise will cause an extension up the supply curve, from point A to point B, whilst aprice fall will cause a contraction back down the supply curve, from point A to point C.Supply curves shift, at all prices, if there is a change in one or more of the determinants of supply. If something happens that decreases a stiffs costs regardless of the price level (e.g. improved technology or a subsidy from the government), then the firms supply curve shifts to the right. The diagram below demonstrates these shiftsNote that the price remains unchanged at P1 the shifts in the supply curve are caused by various changes in the determinants of supply.As with the demand curve, there are many things that affect supply as well as the price of the good in question.The most important factor determining the supply of a commodity is its price. As a general rule, price of a commodity and its supply are directly related. It means, as price increases , the quantity supplied of the given commodity also rises and vice-versa. It happens because at higher prices, there are greater chances of making profit. It induces the firm to offer more for sale in the market.The price of other factors of other goods is one of the determinants of the supply. Increase in the prices of other goods makes them more profitable in simile to the given commodity. For example if it is more profitable to produce LCD TVs then producers will produce more LCD TVs as compared to PLASMA TVs. Thus the supply curve for PLASMA TVs will shift inwards i.e. there will be a fall in supply. Another factor to determine supply is through Technology. Technological changes influence the supply of a commodity. Advanced and improved technology reduces the cost of production, which raises the profit margin. It induces the seller to increase the supply. However, technological degradation or complex and out-dated technology will increase the cost of production and it will lead to decrease in supply.Govt., through taxation policies, is also a determinant of supply. Increase in taxes raises the cost of production and, thus, reduces the supply, due to lower profit margin. On the other hand, tax concessions and subsidies increase the supply as they make it more profitable for the firms to supply goods.

My Ántonia, Individualism Essay

(Individualism Its Influence over Lena, Jim and ntonia During Their Childhood, Adolescence and Adulthood) The longest journey is the journey inwards. Of him who has chosen his destiny, Who has started upon his quest for the source of his macrocosm Dag Hammarskjold.1 This individualist journey, Hammarskjold refers to, consists of two truly authoritative elements which contri thate to individualization (1) having the awareness of personal accountability before the Lord and Savior and (2) having a self-sufficient nature as a fountainhead of a persons individuality which was required to settle the the Statesn frontier. These key ingredients mixed with an untamed destroy tempered the settlers into what we know them today as Americans which whitethorn be observed within Willa Cathers My Antonia as the reader follows the lives of three key constituents Lena, Jimmy, and Antonia.Cather herself searched for her induce individualism which she juxtaposed in this 1918 literary work with the character Jimmy. Both he and the author of the story were born in Virginia and at an early age were sent to Nebraska to join their grandparents. And overmuch like the author, he had the pleasure of growing up with a variety of immigrants and stories. Such narratives inspired the author by means of verboten her writing career. My Antonia follows the endeavors of the female protagonist, Antonia, and her foil, Lena, as they struggle in a unfermented country, quarrel, and culture seeking happiness and fulfillment in their lives which Cather so often observed in her childhood immigrant neighbors. Likewise, the reader learns about Jimmy with his own personal struggles as he strives for autonomy in a rugged territory with unmitigated moral codes.Willa Cathers My ntonia addresses the notion of individualism which is outmatch seen by means of direct and indirect characterization of three dynamic characters Lena, Jimmy, and ntonia by means of analyzing three stages of life childhood, youth, and adulthood. A remarkable example of individualistic growth is pictured in Lena Lingard who lived in the countryside with her newly transplanted Norwegian family outside total darkness clear the throat, Nebraska.The reader first encounters Lena through direct characterization as she is described as being bareheaded and barefooted, scantily dressed in tattered clothing (106)2 when she was just a child looking after her familys herd. In the first expound of the book she is introduced as a wild, poorly dressed working girl in charge of farm tasks much like other foreign girls Lena lived in the Norwegian settlement west of Squaw Creek, and she used to herd her fathers cattle in the open country between his place and the Shimerdas (106).Further along in the myth, there is a clear change in this characters life. She grows-up and changes her worn out rags for dressmaker quality clothing with hat and gloves as she begins a new phase in her life as a dressmakers apprentice in th e town of Black Hawk So you hold back come to town, state Mrs. Harling, her eyes still fixed on Lena. Where are you working? For Mrs. Thomas, the dressmaker. She is spillage to t distributively me to sew. She says I have quite a knack (104). As a young adult, Lena strikes-out on her own to the city of Lincoln in a supreme final exhibition of the independence she has spoiled for herself throughout her life through hard work and determination. I live in Lincoln now, too, Jim. Im in business for myself.I have a dressmaking shop in the Raleigh Block, out on O Street. Ive made a real good start (170-171). The path Lena has walked since her childhood, through her adolescence, and then adulthood has illustrated a noticeable achievement in becoming a self-sufficient young woman who quested for her destiny in an untamed land far from her native home. Lenas personal accountability should also be explored, being one of the key elements of individualism, as she neer turned her back on her f amily but always sent them money from her sewing work After I learn to do sewing, I can make money and dish out . . . my mother (104).These individualistic elements were key in developing her character as she was noted in taking care of herself as well as her parents and siblings which was required of those immigrants who founded America and became a new breed of people known as Americans. Individualism was also reached by two other primary characters within this classic American literature novel Jimmy and Antonia.Jim effect, the narrator of the story and also one of the major characters of Willa Cathers My Antonia, is as well and important example of how a humanity being can evolve trough his life to find completeness and self-sufficiency. At the beginning of the book, Jim had just suffered the loss of his parents and sent to his grandparents. While he was in the grow on his way to Nebraska he was in deep grieve and uncertain about his future. I dont think I was homesick. If w e never arrived anywhere, it did not matter.Between that earth and that sky I felt erased, blotted out. I did not say my prayers that night here, I felt, what would be would be. Nevertheless, that sad theodolite in his life did not let Jim down. In the same train that he was travelling there was a Bohemian family. One of the members of that family was ntonia Shimerda, who would become his best friend in the near future. When Jim had enough age to start studying at School, coincidentally his grandparents also had to move to Black Hawk due to Mrs. issue health situation. There he met new friends, worked hard on his studies, and also had fun.Despite being sad and scared in the past, Jim managed to overcome these difficulties and successfully repair at school. So much so, that soon he would move to Lincoln to start his college career. There he met Gaston Cleric who joined him in his new adventure, and helped Jim to absorb over some obstacles that he had to face while living in Linco ln. At the university I had the good fortune to come immediately under the function of a brilliant and inspiring young scholar. Gaston Cleric had arrived in Lincoln only a few weeks earlier than I . . . (165). Cleric also convinced him to move to Boston to finish his career, where Jim would finally reach his goal of becoming a professional. Two years after I left Lincoln I completed my academic course at Harvard. Before I entered the Law School I went home for the summer vacation.(191) Just after getting his college degree, Jim travelled back to Black Hawk where he would find e very(prenominal)thing opposite, his friends either dead or gone, the kids were not the same, and even the town itself was all changed. He left Black Hawk being an adolescent with dreams and now he had returned as a professional. He felt he was complete, despite of the fact that he still had very present that sorrowful night in which he was moving from Virginia to Nebraska. I had only to close my eyes to he ar the rumbling of the wagons in the dark, and to be over again overcome by that obliterating strangeness. The feelings of that night were so near that I could reach out and touch them with my hand. I had the sense of coming home to myself, and of having found out what a little circle mans experience is.(238) By the judgment of conviction he came back to Black Hawk he knew that he had seized the opportunities he had and felt that his life had been worthy living. While back in town, he went to visit his beloved friend ntonia, which also was happy. The happenings in Antonias life, and how she evolved from being a little girl in a foreign country to the women she became will be thoroughly developed next.ntonia Shimerda is the main character that we find in Willa Cathers My ntonia. As well as Lena and Jim she is characterized during different stages of her life (childhood, adolescence and adulthood). One example of this characterization is portrayed in how ntonia was developing her ne w language (English) and how it was influenced by the different periods of time she went through, as well as the places she moved to. At the beginning of the story we find ntonia and her family moving from Bohemia to the prairie of Nebraska. In the prairie and as a child she met Lena Lingard and Jim Burden who would become one of the most important persons in her life.Jim was going to be the one in charge of teaching English to ntonia who did not cover much English before the arrival to the prairie ntonia had opinions about everything, and she was soon able to make them known. Almost every day she came running across the prairie to have her reading lesson with me. Mrs. Shimerda grumbled, but realized it was important that one member of the family should learn English (24). It is evident that Mrs. Shimerda did not like the idea of ntonia learning English. But, she understood it was important for ntonia to learn the language in order to adapt herself and to find herself in her new co untry and home, also this would help ntonia to take care of her family as she felt it as an obligation.As ntonia was evolving her English was growing with her and with this some traits of her personality too. As explained before in the paper, Jim had to move to Black Hawk due to study reasons, but it was not going to be a long time before ntonia also moved to Black Hawk, but with different intentions from ones of Jim. ntonia moved to Black Hawk to get a crinkle, here she runs into Jim and Lena again. Now in her adolescence Jim says that ntonia has very good English, Tony learned English so quickly that by the time school began she could speak as well as any of us (107). This shows that ntonia kept practicing English to improve herself, as she felt that was one way to become better to help her family, and now in Black Hawk and with her job it was evident how the improvement in her English helped her.However, ntonia would began to attend to dances with her friend Lena and this would carry a lot of problems with it for her, including losing her job because she did not want to quit attending to dances as requested by her bosses. The story carried on and further ahead in the story, when Jim comes back from Lincoln and the time he spent at Harvard to finish his studies, he finds a happily married grown-up ntonia with children. ntonia had married a bohemian guy called Anton and now she has a family, and she is very happy with them. While Jim is talking with ntonia, he notices that her English has become bad as it used to be when she was a child and she was learning it. ntonia tells him that now she has more troubles with English because at home they speak almost only in Bohemian, I cant think of what I want to say, youve got me so affected up. And then, Ive forgot my English so. I dont often talk it any more.I tell the children I used to speak real well. She said they always spoke Bohemian at home. The little ones could not speak English at alldidnt learn it until they went to school (224). Now in her adulthood ntonia was really worried and a good mother as well as a good wife who take care of her family. hither is where the change that ntonia suffered from childhood to adolescence to adulthood is characterized, how she passed from a little girl to a loving mother. Throughout this essay three fundamental characters that we find in the novel My ntonia by the author Willa Cather have been characterized, these characters are Lena Lingard, Jim Burden and ntonia Shimerda. The characterization of these characters has been done under the perception of individualism that is represented with each one of them.This perception of individualism of the characters has been shown based on the pursuit for autonomy that each character went through. At the same time three different moments in characters lives were chosen to describe them the childhood, adolescence and adulthood. These moments in characters lives were chosen because they are prior important sta ges in a persons life. So, it was important to illustrate how the notion of individualism of each character could be characterized in these stages, taking into account crucial aspects that the characters faced in the search for themselves. Examples of these important aspects faced by the characters are a new country, language and culture in the case of Lena and ntonia. Another example is the personal struggles of Jim as he attempts for autonomy in a rugged territory with strict moral codes.

Detailed semiotic analysis of a music video

The movie that I am analysing is Simian mobile disco VS Justice We argon Your Friends. The television set belongs to the music genre of Electro / Psychedelic / Alternative. This genres broad characteristics include DJ sets with crowds and bizarre storylines. The relationship among the lyrics and the visuals creates an idea of irony. For exercise the lyrics state We Are Your Friends, whilst concurrently we view an individual experiencing a practical joke as a cat gets thrown at him whilst asleep.The relationship between the visuals and the music allows the cuts to be in time with the beat. There are no solo instrumental sections as the video is all-visual around the archetype. The video also changes pace with the music for example, through the course up there are less cuts and longer shots. This happens during the section 100 minute to 132 minutes.The use of the extraordinary concept of the video helps to dish out this track, as it is recognisable and extravagant. Also the co mbination of the two artists justice and simian mobile disco combining, will have a considerable effect on the size of the audience. Throughout the video there is no appearance from the actual artists. However the audience can create an image of the artist after having watched the video. As the artists are combined they have not released any previous music videos together.The videos of simian mobile disco are however eccentric and unusual for example Its The Beat roughly matches the style of We Are Your Friends. There are no specific motifs followed on from other videos, as it is just a spontaneous video that is unrelated to any other work done by either Justice or Simian Mobile Disco. Even though I would not say that this brands them as achieving a new image, it can although be categorised with some previous work.As the artist does not appear in the video they cannot have been put on sexual display. Considering the other actors within the video there is also no use of sexual displa y by manful or female individuals. There are no other factors within the video linking to the use of sexual display. This music video is approximately 90% concept based and 10% narrative based. This is because there is no performance and the whole video is shots of foolish tricks performed to recovering individuals. The narrative section is small and consists of the link between all the performers having being drunk the night before.

The Da Vinci Code Chapter 52-55

CHAPTER 52The Sprawling 185-acre estate of Cha teau Villette was located twenty-five minutes northwest of genus Paris in the environs of Versailles. Designed by Franois Mansart in 1668 for the Count of Aufflay, it was champion of Pariss most significant historic chateaux. Complete with two rectangular lakes and gardens designed by Le Ntre, Chateau Villette was more of a modest castle than a hu sm completely-armitysion. The estate fondly had become hunch forward as la Petite Versailles.Langdon brought the appearfit truck to a shuddering s enlighten at the foot of the mile-long driveway. Beyond the imposing security gate, Sir Leigh Teabings residence rose on a meadow in the distance.The sign on the gate was in EnglishPRIVATE PROPERTY.NO TRESPASSING.As if to proclaim his home a British Isle unto itself, Teabing had not unless posted his signs in English, notwithstanding he had installed his gates intercom entry system on the right-hand side of the truck the passengers side ever ywhere in europium except England. Sophie gave the misplaced intercom an odd look. And if someone arrives without a passenger? Dont make. Langdon had al memorisey been through that with Teabing. He prefers things the way they are at home.Sophie rolled polish up her window. Robert, youd better do the talking.Langdon shifted his position, leaning out crossways Sophie to press the intercom button. As he did, an alluring whiff of Sophies perfume filled his nostrils, and he realize how close they were. He waited there, awkwardly prone, while a telephone began ringing over the small speaker.Finally, the intercom crackled and an irritated French accent spoke. Chateau Villette. Who is calling?This is Robert Langdon, Langdon called out, sprawled across Sophies lap. Im a friend of Sir Leigh Teabing. I take on his help.My master is sleeping. As was I. What is your business with him? It is a private matter. One of great interest to him. Then Im sure he will be pl projected to receive you in the morning. Langdon shifted his weight. Its quite important. As is Sir Leighs sleep. If you are a friend, then you are aware he is in scant(p) health.Sir Leigh Teabing had suffered from polio as a child and now wore leg prepare and walked with crutches, but Langdon had tack him such a lively and colorful man on his last visit that it hardly seemed an infirmity. If you would, please tell him I lose uncovered new education astir(predicate) the Grail. Information that cannot wait until morning.There was a long pause.Langdon and Sophie waited, the truck idling loudly.A full minute passed.Finally, someone spoke. My near man, I daresay you are still on Harvard Standard Time. The voice was chip shot and light.Langdon grinned, recognizing the thick British accent. Leigh, my apologies for waking you at this obscene hour.My manservant tells me that not only are you in Paris, but you speak of the Grail.I thought that might fail you out of bed. And so it has. Any chance youd open t he gate for an old friend?Those who seek the truth are more than friends. They are brothers. Langdon rolled his eyeball at Sophie, salubrious accustomed to Teabings predilection for dramatic antics. Indeed I will open the gate, Teabing proclaimed, but first I must confirm your tenderness is true. A test of your honor. You will answer three questions.Langdon groaned, whispering at Sophie. Bear with me here. As I mentioned, hes something of a char make outer. Your first question, Teabing declared, his tone Herculean. Shall I help oneself you coffee, or tea? Langdon knew Teabings feelings about the American phenomenon of coffee. Tea, he replied. Earl Grey.Excellent. Your second question. Milk or sugar? Langdon hesitated. Milk,Sophie whispered in his ear. I think the British situation milk. Milk, Langdon said. Silence. Sugar? Teabing made no reply.Wait Langdon now recalled the bitter beverage he had been served on his last visit and realized this question was a trick. scum bag he declared. Earl Grey with lemonIndeed. Teabing sounded deeply amused now. And finally, I must make the most grave of inquiries. Teabing paused and then spoke in a terrible tone. In which year did a Harvard sculler last outrow an Oxford man at Henley?Langdon had no idea, but he could imagine only one reason the question had been asked. for sure such a travesty has never occurred.The gate clicked open. Your checkt is true, my friend. You may pass.CHAPTER 53Monsieur Vernet The night manager of the Depository Bank of Zurich felt relieved to hear the bank hot seats voice on the phone. Where did you go, sir? The police are here, everyone is waiting for youI have a lighttle problem, the bank president said, sounding distressed. I need your help right away.You have more than a little problem, the manager thought. The police had entirely surrounded the bank and were threatening to have the DCPJ captain himself gift up with the warrant the bank had demanded. How can I help you, sir? Arm ored truck number three. I need to find it. Puzzled, the manager checked his tar schedule. Its here. Downst commits at the loading dock. Actually, no. The truck was stolen by the two individuals the police are tracking. What? How did they drive out?I cant go into the specifics on the phone, but we have a situation here that could potentially be extremely unfortunate for the bank.What do you need me to do, sir?Id like you to activate the trucks emergency transponder.The night managers eye moved to the LoJack control box across the room. Like many armored cars, each of the banks trucks had been equipped with a radio-controlled homing device, which could be activated remotely from the bank. The manager had only used the emergency system once, after a hijacking, and it had worked flawlessly locating the truck and transmitting the coordinates to the authorities automatically. Tonight, however, the manager had the impression the president was hoping for a bit more prudence. Sir, you are aware that if I activate the LoJack system, the transponder will simultaneously inform the authorities that we have a problem.Vernet was silent for several(prenominal) seconds. Yes, I know. Do it anyway. Truck number three. Ill hold. I need the exact location of that truck the instant you have it. Right away, sir.Thirty seconds later, forty kilometers away, underground in the undercarriage of the armored truck, a tiny transponder blinked to life.CHAPTER 54As Langdon and Sophie drove the armored truck up the winding, poplar-lined driveway toward the house, Sophie could already feel her muscles relaxing. It was a residue to be off the road, and she could think of few safer places to get their feet under them than this private, gated estate owned by a good-natured foreigner.They turned into the sweeping circular driveway, and Chateau Villette came into view on their right. Three stories tall and at least sixty meters long, the edifice had gray stone facing illuminated by outside spo tlights. The coarse window dressing stood in stark juxtaposition to the immaculately landscaped gardens and glassy pond.The inner(a) lights were just now coming on.Rather than driving to the front approach, Langdon pulled into a set area nestled in the evergreens. No reason to risk being spotted from the road, he said. Or having Leigh wonder why we arrived in a destroy armored truck.Sophie nodded. What do we do with the cryptex? We probably shouldnt leave it out here, but if Leigh sees it, hell certainly want to know what it is.not to worry, Langdon said, removing his jacket as he stepped out of the car. He wrapped the tweed coat around the box and held the bundle in his arms like a baby.Sophie looked dubious. Subtle.Teabing never answers his own door he prefers to make an entrance. Ill find somewhere inside to stash this before he joins us. Langdon paused. Actually, I should probably warn you before you meet him. Sir Leigh has a sense of card that people often find a bit stran ge. Sophie doubted anything tonight would strike her as strange anymore. The pathway to the main entrance was hand-laid cobblestone. It curved to a door of carved oak and cherry with a brass knocker the size of a grapefruit. Before Sophie could grasp the knocker, the door swung open from within.A prim and tasteful butler stood before them, making final adjustments on the white tie and tuxedo he had apparently just donned. He looked to be about fifty, with bully features and an austere expression that left little doubt he was unamused by their presence here.Sir Leigh will be downward presently, he declared, his accent thick French. He is dressing. He prefers not to greet visitors while wearing only a nightshirt. May I take your coat? He scowled at the bunched-up tweed in Langdons arms. Thank you, Im fine. Of course you are. Right this way, please.The butler guided them through a lush marble foyer into an exquisitely adorned drawing room, softly lit by tassel-draped Victorian lamp s. The air inside smelled antediluvian, regal somehow, with traces of pipe tobacco, tea leaves, cooking sherry, and the earthen aroma of stone architecture. Against the elevate wall, flanked between two blaze suits of chain mail armor, was a rough-hewn fireplace large enough to roast an ox. Walking to the hearth, the butler knelt and touched a match to a pre-laid arrangement of oak logs and kindling. A fire quick crackled to life.The man stood, straightening his jacket. His master requests that you make yourselves at home. With that, he departed, leaving Langdon and Sophie alone.Sophie wondered which of the fireside antiques she was supposed to sit on the Renaissance velvet-textured diwan, the rustic eagle-claw rocker, or the pair of stone pews that looked like theyd been lifted from some Byzantine temple.Langdon unwrapped the cryptex from his coat, walked to the velvet divan, and slid the wooden box deep underneath it, well out of sight. Then, shaking out his jacket, he put it back on, smoothed the lapels, and pull a faced at Sophie as he sat down straightway over the stashed treasure.The divan it is, Sophie thought, taking a seat beside him.As she stared into the suppuration fire, enjoying the warmth, Sophie had the sensation that her grandfather would have loved this room. The dark wood paneling was bedecked with Old Master paintings, one of which Sophie recognized as a Poussin, her grandfathers second-favorite painter. On the mantel above the fireplace, an alabaster bust of Isis watched over the room.Beneath the Egyptian goddess, inside the fireplace, two stone gargoyles served as andirons, their mouths gaping to reveal their menacing hollow throats. Gargoyles had always terrified Sophie as a child that was, until her grandfather cured her of the fear by taking her atop Notre Dame Cathedral in a rainstorm. Princess, look at these silly creatures, he had told her, pointing to the gargoyle rainspouts with their mouths gushing water. Do you hear tha t funny sound in their throats? Sophie nodded, having to smile at the burping sound of the water gurgling through their throats. Theyre gargling,her grandfather told her. Gargariser And thats where they get the silly name gargoyles. Sophie had never again been afraid.The fond memory caused Sophie a bite of sadness as the harsh reality of the murder gripped her again. Grand-pere is gone.She pictured the cryptex under the divan and wondered if Leigh Teabing would have any idea how to open it. Or if we even should ask him.Sophies grandfathers final words had instructed her to find Robert Langdon. He had said nothing about involving anyone else. We needed somewhere to hide, Sophie said, deciding to trust Roberts judgment.Sir Robert a voice bellowed somewhere skunk them. I see you travel with a maiden.Langdon stood up. Sophie jumped to her feet as well. The voice had come from the top of a curled staircase that snaked up to the shadows of the second floor. At the top of the stairs, a f orm moved in the shadows, only his silhouette visible.Good evening, Langdon called up. Sir Leigh, may I present Sophie Neveu. An honor. Teabing moved into the light. Thank you for having us, Sophie said, now seeing the man wore metal leg braces and used crutches. He was coming down one stair at a time. I realize its quite late.It is so late, my dear, its early. He laughed. Vous netes pas Americaine?Sophie shook her head. Parisienne.Your English is superb.Thank you. I studied at the Royal Holloway.So then, that explains it. Teabing hobbled lower through the shadows. Perhaps Robert told you I schooled just down the road at Oxford. Teabing fixed Langdon with a devilish smile. Of course, I to a fault applied to Harvard as my safety school.Their host arrived at the bottom of the stairs, appearing to Sophie no more like a knight than Sir Elton John. Portly and ruby-faced, Sir Leigh Teabing had bushy red hair and jovial hazel eyes that seemed to twinkle as he spoke. He wore pleated pants a nd a roomy silk shirt under a paisley vest. Despite the aluminum braces on his legs, he carried himself with a resilient, vertical dignity that seemed more a by-product of noble ancestry than any kind of conscious effort.Teabing arrived and extended a hand to Langdon. Robert, youve lost weight. Langdon grinned. And youve found some. Teabing laughed heartily, patting his rotund belly. Touche. My only swinish pleasures these days seem to be culinary. Turning now to Sophie, he gently took her hand, bowing his head slightly, breathing lightly on her fingers, and diverting his eyes. Mlady.Sophie glanced at Langdon, obscure whether shed stepped back in time or into a nuthouse.The butler who had answered the door now entered carrying a tea service, which he arranged on a flurry in front of the fireplace.This is Remy Legaludec, Teabing said, my manservant.The slender butler gave a stiff nod and disappeared yet again.Remy is Lyonais,Teabing whispered, as if it were an unfortunate disease. But he does sauces quite nicely.Langdon looked amused. I would have thought youd import an English staff?Good heavens, no I would not wish a British chef on anyone except the French tax collectors. He glanced over at Sophie. Pardonnez-moi, Mademoiselle Neveu. Please be assured that my distaste for the French extends only to politics and the soccer pitch. Your government steals my money, and your football police squad recently humiliated us.Sophie offered an easy smile.Teabing eyed her a moment and then looked at Langdon. Something has happened. You both look shaken.Langdon nodded. Weve had an interesting night, Leigh.No doubt. You arrive on my brink unannounced in the middle of the night speaking of the Grail. Tell me, is this indeed about the Grail, or did you simply say that because you know it is the lone topic for which I would rouse myself in the middle of the night?A little of both, Sophie thought, picturing the cryptex hidden beneath the couch. Leigh, Langdon said, wed li ke to talk to you about the Priory of Sion. Teabings bushy eyebrows arched with intrigue. The keepers. So this is indeed about the Grail. You say you come with information? Something new, Robert?Perhaps. Were not quite sure. We might have a better idea if we could get some information from you first.Teabing wagged his finger. Ever the wily American. A game of quid pro quo. Very well. I am at your service. What is it I can tell you?Langdon sighed. I was hoping you would be kind enough to explain to Ms. Neveu the true nature of the dedicated Grail.Teabing looked stunned. She doesnt know?Langdon shook his head.The smile that grew on Teabings face was almost obscene. Robert, youve brought me a virgin?Langdon winced, glancing at Sophie. Virgin is the term Grail enthusiasts use to describe anyone who has never heard the true Grail story.Teabing turned eagerly to Sophie. How much do you know, my dear?Sophie quickly outlined what Langdon had explained earlier the Priory of Sion, the Knigh ts Templar, the Sangreal documents, and the Holy Grail, which many claimed was not a cup but rather something far more powerful.Thats all? Teabing fired Langdon a shocking look. Robert, I thought you were a gentleman. Youve robbed her of the climaxI know, I thought perhaps you and I could Langdon apparently decided the unseemly metaphor had gone far enough.Teabing already had Sophie locked in his twinkling gaze. You are a Grail virgin, my dear. And trust me, you will never forget your first time.CHAPTER 55Seated on the divan beside Langdon, Sophie drank her tea and ate a scone, feeling the welcome effects of caffeine and food. Sir Leigh Teabing was beaming as he awkwardly paced before the open fire, his leg braces clicking on the stone hearth.The Holy Grail, Teabing said, his voice sermonic. Most people ask me only where it is. I fear that is a question I may never answer. He turned and looked directly at Sophie. However the far more relevant question is this What is the Holy Grail ?Sophie sensed a rising air of academic anticipation now in both of her male companions.To fully understand the Grail, Teabing continued, we must first understand the Bible. How well do you know the untried testament? Sophie shrugged. Not at all, really. I was raised by a man who hero-worshipped Leonardo Da Vinci. Teabing looked both startled and pleased. An enlightened soul. splendid Then you must be aware that Leonardo was one of the keepers of the secret of the Holy Grail. And he hid clues in his art. Robert told me as much, yes. And Da Vincis views on the New Testament? I have no idea. Teabings eyes turned mirthful as he motioned to the criminal recordshelf across the room. Robert, would you mind? On the bottom shelf. La Storia di Leonardo.Langdon went across the room, found a large art book, and brought it back, setting it down on the table between them. Twisting the book to face Sophie, Teabing flipped open the heavy cover and pointed inside the rear cover to a series of quotations. From Da Vincis notebook on polemics and speculation, Teabing said, indicating one quote in particular. I think youll find this relevant to our discussion.Sophie read the words.Many have made a trade of delusionsand false miracles, deceiving the stupid multitude. LEONARDO DA VINCIHeres another, Teabing said, pointing to a different quote.Blinding ignorance does mislead us.O pitiful mortals, open your eyes LEONARDO DA VINCISophie felt a little chill. Da Vinci is talking about the Bible?Teabing nodded. Leonardos feelings about the Bible relate directly to the Holy Grail. In fact, Da Vinci painted the true Grail, which I will show you momentarily, but first we must speak of the Bible. Teabing smiled. And everything you need to know about the Bible can be summed up by the great canon doctor Martyn Percy. Teabing cleared his throat and declared, The Bible did not arrive by facsimile from heaven.I beg your pardon?The Bible is a product of man, my dear. Not of God. The Bible d id not fall magically from the clouds. Man created it as a historical record of tumultuous times, and it has evolved through countless translations, additions, and revisions. History has never had a definitive version of the book.Okay. savior delivery boy was a historical figure of careen influence, perhaps the most enigmatic and inspirational leader the world has ever seen. As the prophesied Messiah, Jesus toppled kings, inspired millions, and founded new philosophies. As a descendant of the lines of big businessman Solomon and King David, Jesus possessed a rightful claim to the throne of the King of the Jews. Understandably, His life was recorded by thousands of followers across the land. Teabing paused to sip his tea and then placed the cup back on the mantel. More than eighty gospel truth were considered for the New Testament, and yet only a relative few were elect for inclusion Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John among them.Who chose which gospels to include? Sophie asked.Aha Tea bing burst in with enthusiasm. The fundamental irony of saviorianity The Bible, as we know it today, was collated by the pagan Roman emperor Constantine the Great.I thought Constantine was a Christian, Sophie said.Hardly, Teabing scoffed. He was a lifelong pagan who was baptized on his deathbed, too weak to protest. In Constantines day, Romes official religion was cheerfulness worship the cult of Sol Invictus, or the Invincible Sun and Constantine was its head priest. Unfortunately for him, a growing religious turmoil was gripping Rome. Three centuries after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, Christs followers had multiplied exponentially. Christians and pagans began warring, and the conflict grew to such proportions that it threatened to rend Rome in two. Constantine decided something had to be done. In 325 A. D. , he decided to commingle Rome under a single religion. Christianity. Sophie was surprised. Why would a pagan emperor choose Christianity as the official religion? Tea bing chuckled. Constantine was a very good businessman. He could see that Christianity was on the rise, and he simply backed the winning horse. Historians still marvel at the brilliance with which Constantine converted the sun-worshipping pagans to Christianity. By fusing pagan symbols, dates, and rituals into the growing Christian tradition, he created a kind of hybrid religion that was acceptable to both parties.Transmogrification, Langdon said. The vestiges of pagan religion in Christian symbology are undeniable. Egyptian sun disks became the halos of Catholic saints. Pictograms of Isis nursing her miraculously conceived son Horus became the blueprint for our modern font images of the Virgin Mary nursing Baby Jesus. And virtually all the elements of the Catholic ritual the miter, the altar, the doxology, and communion, the act of God-eating were taken directly from earlier pagan mystery religions.Teabing groaned. Dont get a symbologist started on Christian icons. Nothing in Chr istianity is passe-partout. The pre-Christian God Mithras called the Son of God and the flatboat of the World was born on December 25, died, was buried in a rock tomb, and then resurrected in three days. By the way, December 25 is also the birthday of Osiris, Adonis, and Dionysus. The newborn Krishna was presented with gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Even Christianitys every week holy day was stolen from the pagans.What do you mean?Originally, Langdon said, Christianity honored the Jewish Sabbath of Saturday, but Constantine shifted it to coincide with the pagans veneration day of the sun. He paused, grinning. To this day, most churchgoers attend services on Sunday morning with no idea that they are there on account of the pagan sun gods weekly tribute Sunday.Sophies head was spinning. And all of this relates to the Grail?Indeed, Teabing said. Stay with me. During this fusion of religions, Constantine needed to strengthen the new Christian tradition, and held a famous ecumenica l gathering known as the Council of Nicaea.Sophie had heard of it only insofar as its being the birthplace of the Nicene Creed.At this gathering, Teabing said, many aspects of Christianity were debated and voted upon the date of Easter, the role of the bishops, the administration of sacraments, and, of course, the immortalof Jesus.I dont follow. His divinity?My dear, Teabing declared, until that moment in history, Jesus was viewed by His followers as a mortal prophet a great and powerful man, but a man nonetheless. A mortal. Not the Son of God? Right, Teabing said. Jesus establishment as the Son of God was officially proposed and voted on by the Council of Nicaea.Hold on. Youre saying Jesus divinity was the result of a vote?A relatively close vote at that, Teabing added. Nonetheless, establishing Christs divinity was critical to the further unification of the Roman empire and to the new Vatican power base. By officially endorsing Jesus as the Son of God, Constantine turned Jesus i nto a deity who existed beyond the scope of the human world, an entity whose power was unchallengeable. This not only precluded further pagan challenges to Christianity, but now the followers of Christ were able to redeem themselves only via the established sacred channel the Roman Catholic church.Sophie glanced at Langdon, and he gave her a soft nod of concurrence.It was all about power, Teabing continued. Christ as Messiah was critical to the functioning of Church and state. Many scholars claim that the early Church literally stole Jesus from His original followers, hijacking His human message, shrouding it in an impenetrable cloak of divinity, and using it to expand their own power. Ive written several books on the topic. And I assume devout Christians send you hate mail on a daily basis? Why would they? Teabing countered. The vast majority of educated Christians know the history of their faith. Jesus was indeed a great and powerful man. Constantines underhanded political mane uvers dont diminish the majesty of Christs life. Nobody is saying Christ was a fraud, or denying that He walked the earth and inspired millions to better lives. All we are saying is that Constantine took advantage of Christs substantial influence and importance. And in doing so, he shaped the face of Christianity as we know it today.Sophie glanced at the art book before her, eager to move on and see the Da Vinci painting of the Holy Grail.The twist is this, Teabing said, talking meteoric now. Because Constantine upgraded Jesus status almost four centuries after Jesus death, thousands of documents already existed chronicling His life as a mortal man. To rewrite the history books, Constantine knew he would need a nervy stroke.From this sprang the most profound moment in Christian history. Teabing paused, eyeing Sophie. Constantine commissioned and financed a new Bible, which omitted those gospels that spoke of Christs human traits and embellished those gospels that made Him godlike. The earlier gospels were outlawed, gathered up, and burned.An interesting note, Langdon added. Anyone who chose the forbidden gospels over Constantines version was deemed a heretic. The word heretic derives from that moment in history. The Latin word haereticus means choice. Those who chose the original history of Christ were the worlds first heretics.Fortunately for historians, Teabing said, some of the gospels that Constantine attempted to eradicate managed to survive. The Dead Sea Scrolls were found in the 1950s hidden in a cave near Qumran in the Judean desert. And, of course, the Coptic Scrolls in 1945 at Nag Hammadi. In addition to telling the true Grail story, these documents speak of Christs ministry in very human terms. Of course, the Vatican, in keeping with their tradition of misinformation, tried very hard to suppress the release of these scrolls. And why wouldnt they? The scrolls highlight glaring historical discrepancies and fabrications, all the way confirming that the modern Bible was compiled and edited by men who possessed a political agenda to promote the divinity of the man Jesus Christ and use His influence to solidify their own power base.And yet, Langdon countered, its important to remember that the modern Churchs desire to suppress these documents comes from a sincere belief in their established view of Christ. The Vatican is made up of deeply pious men who truly believe these contrary documents could only be false testimony.Teabing chuckled as he eased himself into a chair opposite Sophie. As you can see, our professor has a far softer heart for Rome than I do. Nonetheless, he is correct about the modern clergy believing these opposing documents are false testimony. Thats understandable. Constantines Bible has been their truth for ages. Nobody is more indoctrinated than the indoctrinator. What he means, Langdon said, is that we worship the gods of our fathers. What I mean, Teabing countered, is that almost everything our fathers tau ght us about Christ is false.As are the stories about the Holy Grail.Sophie looked again at the Da Vinci quote before her. Blinding ignorance does mislead us. O Wretched mortals, open your eyesTeabing reached for the book and flipped toward the center. And finally, before I show you Da Vincis paintings of the Holy Grail, Id like you to take a quick look at this. He opened the book to a colorful graphic that spanned both full pages. I assume you recognize this fresco?Hes kidding, right? Sophie was staring at the most famous fresco of all time The LastSupper Da Vincis legendary painting from the wall of Santa Maria delle Grazie near Milan. The decaying fresco portrayed Jesus and His disciples at the moment that Jesus announced one of them would betray Him. I know the fresco, yes.Then perhaps you would indulge me this little game? Close your eyes if you would. Uncertain, Sophie closed her eyes. Where is Jesus sitting? Teabing asked. In the center. Good. And what food are He and His d isciples breaking and eating? Bread. Obviously. Superb. And what drink? Wine. They drank wine. Great. And one final question. How many wineglasses are on the table?Sophie paused, realizing it was the trick question. And after dinner, Jesus took the cup of wine, sharing it with His disciples. One cup, she said. The chalice. The Cup of Christ.The Holy Grail. Jesus passed a single chalice of wine, just as modern Christians do at communion.Teabing sighed. vindicated your eyes.She did. Teabing was grinning smugly. Sophie looked down at the painting, seeing to her astonishment that everyone at the table had a glass of wine, including Christ. Thirteen cups. Moreover, the cups were tiny, stemless, and made of glass. There was no chalice in the painting. No Holy Grail.Teabings eyes twinkled. A bit strange, dont you think, considering that both the Bible and our standard Grail legend celebrate this moment as the definitive arrival of the Holy Grail. Oddly, Da Vinci appears to have forgotten to paint the Cup of Christ.Surely art scholars must have noted that.You will be shocked to take up what anomalies Da Vinci included here that most scholars either do not see or simply choose to ignore. This fresco, in fact, is the entire key to the Holy Grail mystery. Da Vinci lays it all out in the open in The Last SupperSophie scanned the work eagerly. Does this fresco tell us what the Grail really is?Not what it is, Teabing whispered. But rather who it is. The Holy Grail is not a thing. It is, in fact a person

The Ride

The Ride The Ride is the story of the atrocious and gruesome murder of ten grade old, Jeffrey Curley, a case that is familiar to some in the Massachusetts area. The book works its way from the grisly crime to the years afterward. It focuses on the family of Jeffrey, heavily weighted on the life of Cambridge Firefighter wharfage Curley, Jeffreys father. Charles Jaynes and Salvatore Sicari, both from Jeffreys neighborhood were convicted of the murder.Within this essay I will demonstrate from The Ride the relationship between reporting and suffering that may confirm been brought on for the crime dupes of this case, the relationship between the victim profiles and the victim family profiles, the role in which the family may capture played in the crime, relationships that developed between the victim and the victims families of this event and how the Restorative umpire Model would have better served the victims of this crime. The indirect victims, The Curleys, as a result of this c rime experienced a magnitude of media sensation from the very onset of the event.Some of it being in helpful, useful ways and some times in negative ways. Once it was reported that Jeffrey Curley was missing, the media went to colossal lengths to get his information publicized and to bring awareness to the Boston area of his disappearance. Hundreds of community members gathered and started conducting their own searches. Fliers were made depicting a young small-scale League player and posted in almost every business and on every street pole. Persons who were not familiar or an acquaintance of the Curleys offered their help and services in the search for the missing boy.The innocence of the young boy portrayed in the fliers tore at the heartstrings of all Boston residents. along with all the autocratic outpouring from the community and the media, overly came negative aspects. Nearly every media outlet in the Boston area took up camp on the streets in and around the Curley home, of ten times confining the Curleys to their home. If they were adapted to leave, they were bombarded with request for interviews, which I believe can lead to further victimization at such a tragic and terrifying time. The Curleys grief was widely publicized and sensationalize after the crime occurred.In the book, the Curleys were depicted as an average demean income, divorced family. Shortly after the disappearance and murder of Jeffrey Curley rumors also began spreading finishedout the community about the Curleys and their parenting tactics. It was mentioned in the book that people questioned why Jeffrey would be allowed to roam around the neighborhood unsupervised throughout the twenty-four hours. A lower income neighborhood, where often times young adults and teenagers were seen gathering at street corners, the screen out of places where petty crimes and mischievous behavior took place.The Curleys felt scrutinized by some of the comments that were being passed around, thus lead ing to further victimizations of the family. It was mentioned that the Curleys felt responsible in some way for Jefferys disappearance, rape and murder. They agonized over all the what ifs and if they could have made a difference. The abovementioned rumors just added more guilt to their already traumatized lives. As a result of this crime, many relationships were established between the victims and numerous agencies, social groups, special interest groups, and politicians, as well as the criminal justice system.Some of these relationships were positive and some were negative. Bob Curley and his family went to extreme measures to have the death penalty reinstated in the state of Massachusetts. The Curleys began this journey by contacting Senators and Representatives to help spark a charter for the reinstatement of the death penalty. The Boston area had been plagued with vicious and heinous crimes for years, and the Jeffrey Curley murder put the wheels in motion for changes to be m ade in the criminal justice system.In a heated battle for the reinstatement, lawmakers who once opposed the death penalty were changing their stance, but in the end certain lawmakers that proposed it changed their stance too. In the end opponents were able to kill the death penalty bill with an 80-80 tie. The Curleys were outraged at the decision, as they thought there was hope of getting this bill passed. They had lobbied, protested, gathered petitions, and worked day and night during this period, only to have it rejected. As proponents of the death penalty, they felt that Jeffreys murder was meaningless and unregarded to warrant such a penalty.Throughout the Curleys journey of this crime, specifically for Bob Curley, relationships that he never thought he would have were emerging at every corner. A once advocate for the reinstatement of capital punishment was counterbalance to form relationships with persons who opposed such. Not the heated debate relationships he was accustomed to, but good open and honest communication. He connected with victims of other heinous crimes, such as the father of a victim of the Oklahoma City bombing event, which resulted in his daughters death.Although suffering the loss of his daughter he was still an opponent of capital punishment. Bob Curley slowly began to change his views on capital punishment and became more open to the idea of opposition. Over a year after his encounter with these victims, Bob Curley changed his stance on capital punishment and now opposed it. Despite backlash from his family, Bob Curley remained firm on his newfound decision and remains that way today. I believe that this change in stance and new friendships he made helped Bob Curley in the healing process.Charles Jaynes and Salvatore Sicari were well-tried separately and in separate courts. The book depicts Jaynes as the mastermind behind the crime and Sicari, the accomplice. Jaynes was known to have pedophile tendencies and often was outspoken abou t such. Jeffrey was a young, naive boy, who was easily persuaded by Jaynes. Sicari was tried first and received life in prison without the possibility of parole. Jaynes on the other hand was convicted of second-degree murder. Once again, the Curleys were outraged with the latter verdict. Jaynes, who had been known to be the mastermind, received a lessor sentence than the accomplice.I believe any faith the Curleys had in the criminal justice system was greatly diminished by the verdict. Again, the Curleys continued to suffer further revictimization as a result. Bob Curleys personal relationship with his significant other, Mimi, also became strained as a result of this crime. As one can imagine, Bob Curley suffered great depression after the murder of his son. He became withdrawn and outside from Mimi. He also turned to drinking alcohol on a daily basis as a coping mechanism. As a result, he became violent with Mimi, and was forced out of the home and was estranged from her.Serving a s a wake up call, Bob Curley sought professional help and help from spiritouss Anonymous. After a significant amount of time a routine, Bob and Mimi were eventually able to mend their relationship. I believe that much of the above mentioned information, problems and conclusions could have been prevented with the newly emerging Restorative Justice Model. Bob Curley, as well as the rest of the Curley family carried an extreme amount of hatred, as one can only imagine. However, by doing so they suffered even deeper and were continually revictimized as a result.Bob Curley often times had courtroom outburst at the offenders, shouting obscenities. If the Curleys had taken part in some type of reconciliation, peacemaking or mediation process much of their suffering and revictimization could have been prevented. Jeffreys mother, Barbara still has not been able to get resolution or peace as a result of this crime. She is no longer able to work a full-time job and lives with one of her sons . Had Restorative Justice been an option and had the Curleys taken advantage of it, I believe much of their suffering and agony could have been avoided.The term victim is derived from the Latin term, to sacrifice, and the Curleys, unfortunately, hold unfeigned to the definition. They have paid the ultimate price for the heinous crime committed against Jeffrey Curley in 1997. The journey they have been forced to travel on has brought suffering to them through numerous agencies, them to labeled and profiled, periods of guilt feelings, and numerous relationships to formed, both good and bad. References Macquarrie, B. (2009) The Ride. Cambridge, MA Da Capo Press.

Kenworth Motors Case Study Essays and Term Papers

Read Kenworth Motors beginning on p. 212 of Cummings & Worley (2009) and answer the four fountainheads at the force out of the case.1. How well the OD advisor did prepares for the meeting with Denton? I do not believe that the OS consultant was quite prepared for the meeting. He stated that he was intimately to talk to a man and go to a firm that he knew no amour much almost. He did guide a little micro chip of facts about his title and his job tenure. But oneness thing is that he knew that it was Kenworth Motors Seattle truck manufacturing operations.He did not have agenda of what the business was all about and he was not focused about the agenda. Would you have through anything differently? Yes I would. If I knew that I was going on an appointment and I did not retire anything about the firm or the person that I was going to see. I would have prepared myself a little better than that. I would have tried to find out more information about Mr. Denton, and I would have done a research about Kenworth Motors Seattle truck manufacturing operations.2. In the discussion betwixt the OD consultant and Denton, what was effective and ineffective about the consultants behavior? One thing about the OD consultant is that when he had the interview with Mr. Denton he had a change to ask Mr. Denton question first about the plant and products. Denton was commensurate to talk about 10 or 12 proceedings on different topicdaily production rate of 23 trucks, the cost of the truck, the sales drift backlog, both(prenominal) equipment updating just finished, his coming to this job from a plant in the Midwest, his spending a lot of time lately with the next years bud fuss.This was effective be rationality OD consultant was able to learn some things about Mr. Denton and the firm that he did not knew. They were able to communicate effectively with one another. chase and the OD consultant both had a positive attitude. The ineffective about the consultants behavior is that he was trying to find out everything about Mr. Denton and the firm as much as he can. The OD consultant caught himself going on with more question. He was looking for Mr. Denton to tell him something were rail at about the company, but he really did not have much to say what was wrong.3. How effective was the spying process described in the last part of the case? The contracting was very effective Bob seemed to be very open with the OD consultant. Bob was able to agree with the OD consultant about staying on a disengage for the weekend, once a month. This would give the department managers a change to get acquainted with each other. Also, the OD consultant stated that going on this retreat would not cause them to lose time off from resolve and it would not cost a lot of money.They still give be working all day on Saturday with appropriate breaks, and conclude by noon on Sunday. What is the scope and clarity of the agreement? The scope and clarity of the agreement is that the OD co nsultant must produce sure that he agree to have a retreat weekend a month-and-a-half. Also they agreed to use the phrase a communications workshop when he informed the participants.4. How would you design the upcoming retreat? I would continue to have a weekend and-a-half day retreat. I would recommend that we developed some kind of strategies to help manager to become more effective.On my agenda, I would include communicating, problem solving, time management, line management and decision making. I would standardized to make it a fun retreat even though it is work related. I would not want to work at all of the retreat I would like to go to a hotel where they served breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also at the end of the retreat, I would like to have soul teach us the importance of getting proper rest and exercise prior to going to work and after that have an exercise workout. This can help relieved some work related stress.

Mayans Customs & Traditions

The Mayans believed that the world was full of spirits and ghost, that every creation had an unseen power. A mountain domiciliate hold a deity and a rock a spirit, much like animism. It is to their belief that ghosts bob up out at night and spirits roam the jungle. To get in touch with the supernatural, such as the jaguar spirit or other transformations, the shaman (a priest who uses magic for certain purposes) would use psychoactive plants found in the jungle with a doobie.Mayans believed that some certain of their ancestors were reborn as gods. According to the Spanish, Mayans could battle back their ancestry hundreds of years ago in detail. Rituals would be performed to their ancestors to gain favour and support. When a component of the family died, they would be buried in simple graves under their houses and the wealthy ones would be buried in tombs along with their belongings such as jewellery, pottery and food.According to Mayan beliefs, it is common for them to have ances tor worships, especially to the royals as they believe that they have re-joined the gods. They also believed that the gods had spilled their own blood to form human flesh. Mayan blood sacrifices were a rite of returning blood to the gods. One way they did this was by ripping hearts out of the human sacrifice, mainly high- ranking war prisoners, and leaving it there for the gods or by pushing them raze a cliff.They utilise human sacrifice because it was believed that human blood made the gods stronger. Yet, another custom was practiced which was self-torture, where they would pierce a body part and run a thread through to let the blood run imbibe it. Sometimes, the Mayans would have dances and dressed up in clothing and masks resembling their gods. The dances were made to ensure the success crops throughout the year. anterior to marriage, Mayan families would use an atanzahab, or matchmaker to examine the couples horoscope to avoid future conflicts.Typically, the brides family would be given compensation for their daughter and the groom would have to work for the brides father for a period of time. The couple would meet for the first time at their wedding ceremony and would not speak to severally other until they were married. One major game Mayans would play was a ball game where they had to hit a ball through a ring vertically. They would be rewarded with fine jewellery if they won or be tied up and sent to the high priest to be decapitated then rolled down the long steps to the plazas floor below. Thank you.

The Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Anton Ermakov Period 4 US History Essay The Bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki On exalted 6th, 1945, the join States dropped an atomic pelt on Hiroshima, Japan, and then, three days later, dropped another bomb on Nagasaki. Since twain bombs were dropped, there has been controversy over this weighty tied(p)t. Some people feel strongly that the United States was warrant in the decision to drop the bombs, whereas many other people believe that it was not necessary to bomb Japan at that point in the war.Write a five-paragraph essay in which you state your opinion on this difficult issue and then explain, describe, and support your point of view with examples and details. The atomic bombings of the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki occupy an important place among the most controversial events in the history of humanity. Even though almost seventy long time passes since these events, their morality and justification are still questioned extensively by both scholars and ordina ry people.In my opinion, the bombings were a downhearted necessity, which gave the US an opportunity to avoid heavy casualties and conclude the war triumphantly. In this essay, I am leaving to explain my views and provide arguments in favor of my point of view. Personally, I believe that using the deadliest weapon of all time created by a man played a crucial role in crushing the Japanese morale and battle spirit. At the end of World War II, the Japanese society was heavily alter and fanatically devoted to serving Emperor Hirohito, who was viewed as a living god by his subjects.Therefore, the inviolate country of Japan lived by the warrior code of bushido, ready to fight for the defense of their mainland. Despite this fatalistic provision for a final fight, the Japanese were not ready for experiencing the terror of nuclear warfare. The tragic events at Hiroshima and Nagasaki constrained the Japanese nation to abandon their will to fight to death, causing the Japanese brass to agree with the American terms of surrender. Second of all, I believe that the bombings actually helped save tens of housands of lives from both sides of the conflict by fortune the US military to bypass the need for a massive invasion of the Japanese mainland. Before the purpose of the Manhattan Project, the military planned to mount an invasion from the newly-captured islands of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Considering the scale of the defensive preparations conducted by the Japanese government leads to me to believe that a conventional invasion of Japan would result in a massive enactment of American casualties. The operation of this magnitude would also be extremely harmful for the noncombatant population of Japan.These reasons study me believe that the unfortunate eradication of the two Japanese cities was a lesser evil. Finally the atomic bombings provided the United States with an opportunity to establish its position as a new superpower, demonstrating its military might to the prospective pit superpower of the USSR. Even though demonstrating the capabilities of a weapon of such destructive power on the civilian population is definitely immoral, it was the best way to showcase the atomic bomb, which eventually became an important asset in keeping the Soviet aggression in check.By using nuclear weapons in combat, the US managed to get an pep pill hand in an early arms race with the Soviet Union and maintain that position until the scrutiny of the first Soviet nuclear bomb in 1949. In conclusion, I would like to say that, even though the bombing raids on Hiroshima and Nagasaki resulted in tens of thousands of civilian deaths, they were instrumental in overcoming the stubborn resistance of the Japanese government, bringing the war to an end, and saving a far greater number of lives in other Japanese cities. Beyond all doubt, these events are tragic, but they should not be perceived as a monstrous and unnecessary atrocity.

Plato and Baudrillard Essay

The central argument of Platos Republic is that the hardly life is preferable to the unjust one. Socrates argues this point against his friends, who put up various objections to the thesis. The principal objection concerns appearances because it is unmingled to alone that the unjust dissimulator reaps the fruits of the world, while the just and virtuous person, who refuses to compromise with the world, suffers poverty, rejection and superior general hardship. The argument of Socrates proceeds on the lines that appearances are liable to deceive. In Book 7 the argument has strayed into epistemology. Here again the argument of Socrates is that solid knowledge is deceptive. In order to make this point he gives us a vivid and drawn-out analogy of the spelunk-dwellers.The dwellers of this cave are sitting facing the w solely of the cave, and their heads are constricted so that they must(prenominal) always be gazing at the wall, not being able to turn their heads at all. Behind the m at that place is a fire, and in the midst of the fire and the dwellers a road. There are bearers who carry objects and walk along the road. The shadows of the objects, as well as those of the bearers, fall on the cave wall, and this is what the dwellers see, and is the sum of their visual knowledge. Plato is arguing that in the phenomenal world our knowledge is constrained. That we cannot reach the essence of things, and that our knowledge must be content with the hazy shadows of things. Because much(prenominal) knowledge is so incomplete, it is liable to produce error in our judgment of things.But Plato is not promoting skepticism. He extends the analogy to suggest that we may come to know the essence of things, but this is nevertheless after we encounter been released from the bondage of material existence. He goes on to consider the condition of the cave-dwellers once they turn over been released from their constraints. They see the objects with their impressiveness of lucubrate, and the clarity overwhelms them, so that they refuse to accept the objects themselves as real, and instead insist that the shadows on the wall were to a greater extent real.In the next stage of their enlightenment they are guided to outside the cave, and then they see things with the superior clarity of all, and this by the light of the sun. Eventually they come to the understanding that all light originates in the sun. The prompting that Plato makes is that there is indeed clarity of knowledge, and that it lies beyond the realm of the material and of appearance. The possibility itself is the saving grace of man. The hold on of wisdom is the shelter that man seeks as he stumbles through the morass of error.The Allegory of the Cave is exceedingly pertinent to how blue jean Baudrillard pictures modern union. In his essay Simulations and Simulacra he contends that modern society has lost all referential links to humans, and has supplanted reality with an artificial co nstruct, which he terms hyperreality. In terms of Platos allegory, the shadows on the wall become the starting points on which to construct a comprehensive reality. In Baudrillards general epistemology, all knowledge necessarily deals with the stainification of things, and never with the essence of the things themselves. These units of knowledge are signs.A sign has no meaning in itself, but derives all meaning through its reference to all otherwise signs. Therefore it has self-referential meaning only. True and total meaning can only emerge when the references have been taken to all other possible signs. But the finite capacity of man precludes this possibility, even though he always strives for total meaning, in order to overcome his limitation.He constructs simulacra, i.e. models that combine the signs in logical formulations, and meant to move reality by similitude. But this is a doomed endeavor. The message of Baudrillard is no different from that of Plato. The shadows on t he cave walls are merely signs of the real presences. Yet the cave dwellers are forced to build all reality from these shadows, and commit error if they try to limit reality to the shadows.The stress of Baudrillard is not on the possibility of legitimate understanding, which nevertheless is tacit in his philosophy. He is more intent on pointing out that modern society has fallen into grave error by the cartographers mad project of an ideal coextensivity between the map and the territory (Baudrillard 170). The result in Western societies has been a precession of simulacra (Ibid 169). The original project, as fetching place in the Age of Enlightenment, is the construction of simulacra, which he likens to maps which are meant to be co-extensive with reality, because atomic level detail is strived for. The next stage is second-order simulacra, where the original simulacra tend to be copied, instead of taking reality as the front reference point. But the plight of modern society is ev en more serious than this, for here we have arrived at third order simulacra. This is when the signs are employed in order to simulate reality, so that all reference to the original is severed, and now it is the map that precedes the territory (Ibid). Because it is so Baudrillard claims that reality has been effaced for the dwellers of modern society, and has been replaced by hyperreality. In this completely simulated existence there is no room for advance any more, but only a meaningless spinning around of fads and fashions, or the orbital recurrence of models and the simulated generation of disagreement (Ibid 170).It is natural that Baudrillard emphasizes the plight of modern society. In Plato we find the seduction of material knowledge, and the way outs are to be imagined. Baudrillard is confronting the consequence face to face, because material knowledge has transpired as a social norm. This is why Plato is more concerned with heavy us the possibility of true knowledge, where as Baudrillard gives us a physiology of the false, because he sees it extant before him.Works CitedBaudrillard, Jean. Jean Baudrillard Selected Writings. Translated by Jacques Mourrain. Palo Alto Stanford University Press, 2001.