Hamlet

1. Through the conversation Claudius has with Gertrude he does not act seem like he is feeling guilty for murdering the king at all. He doesn't seem to have it on his mind anymore as he lies to her and plans to kill her child! Besides being a liar, Claudius is also selfish and has little concern for Gertrude, Hamlet, or anyone else. He is concerned only with his reputation and his power as king. He hasn't stopped to think that not only does he deserve to be killed for being a murderer too, but also that he is repeating the act that he first felt guilty for. Claudius obviously doesn't feel too bad if he's going to have Hamlet killed, just like he did to his father. Having Hamlet killed is his top priority at this point and I think that this proves that he is vindictive. He's also deceitful as he uses the fact that Laertes is mad to his advantage. He asks hamlet "Laertes, was your father dear to you?" - hoping to stir up rage in Laertes. "What would you undertake, to show yourself your father's son in deed more than in words?" Laertes replays "To cut his throat i' the church". Claudius proves that he is sly and possibly manipulative.


2. Ophelia goes mad mostly due to her father's death or at least this is the breaking point and the eventual cause of her suicide. Throughout the course of the story Ophelia has gone through a lot that would probably cause any girl to become emotional, maybe crazy. Hamlet at this point has left and seeing as he's the one who accidentally killed her father, I think I'd go crazy too. Before this Hamlet has already had a conversation with her saying that he doesn't love her anymore. She is now left without a lover and father. She most likely feels alone and lost without the most important male figures in her life. The Queen comes to tell that Ophelia has drowned saying that she lay "there with fantastic garlands did she come of crow-flowers, nettles, daisies, and long purples.." She tells the story as if Ophelia accidentally fell into the water because the branch she was on snapped. I think the Queen is implying that Ophelia was innocent and precious and that these events were destroying her innocence and messing her up!

3. The real significance of the gravediggers seems to be that they are used to bring about the discussion of Ophelia's death and if she should be buried in the churchyard or not. There must be also be a reason that the gravediggers are called clowns although I don't know why. Although I assume the second clown's question was some kind of funny joke as well as the song the first clown sings. These two characters are used for for comedic purposes, even though the conversation is rather serious. The incorporation of these two men into the play are for the reminding the audience/reader that if someone commits suicide they should not be given a proper burial. When Ophelia is brought to be buried it has been decided that instead of "charitable prayers, shards, flints and pebbles should be thrown on her". Laertes is not happy about this and discusses the priests decision with him.

4. Three revenge plots in Hamlet are: Hamlet vs. Claudis, Claudis va Hamlet, Laertes vs, Hamlet and

Hamlet - blog 13

The play within the play is supposed to represent the King's murder by Claudius. The play begins very similar to what actually happened. The King dies and the queen is left behind as a widow. The murderer then decides to pursue the widow just as Hamlet's mother remarries his uncle. Hamlet at this point is trying to stir up trouble and cause a reaction from his uncle. Maybe he hopes to make his uncle feel guilty or perhaps he just wants to make him feel humiliated in front of everyone who is at this play. Regardless, the play is used to bring about the truth, that Claudius is the murderer. The play even mocks his mother a little and might be used to put the situation in perspective for her too and stir up her emotions as well. From the way Hamlet acts during the play it is obvious that he's concerned about the reaction from the King and Queen and wants them to pay close attention. As he unnecessarily interprets the play he makes sure to point our things of significance that will certainly grind on the King's nerves. He says, "He poisons him i' the garden for his estate" and "you shall see anon how the murderer get the love of Gonzago's wife". Hamlet wants to make sure that the King sees that "The Mouse-Trap" is put on for a purpose.

2. Shakespeare writes the play so that Hamlet doesn't act right away against Claudius possibly just to draw more suspense to the reader/audience. The play would definitely be less exciting if Hamlet had just killed Claudius right then and there instead of prolonging the murder. Definitely more can be taken away from a play in which the murderer must live longer with his guilt. There's no real solid explanation for the delay, but Hamlet may just want Claudius to suffer a little more and think more about what what he did and feel more guilty. The play was used by Hamlet to judge Claudius' reaction and make him feel certain that it was Claudius who was the murderer and that his father's ghost was telling the truth. There wasn't a need for him to react abruptly and kill Claudius right then. It was not too long after when Hamlet does go to kill Claudius. Through Hamlet's reaction after finding Claudius praying it can be seen why Hamlet does wait even longer. Hamlet says he wants to kill Claudius when he is in another act that "has no relish of salvation in 't" so that "his soul may be as damned and black as hell, whereto it goes". Hamlet waits for just the right moment to kill Claudius, instead of instantly after the play.

3. Ophelia seems to have gone mad due to her father's death and because Hamlet was the one who murdered him, who is now also gone. None of what she says appears to really make sense as she sings about random things to the King. As she responds to him with these songs she definitely is acting crazy but when she leaves her closing lines tell why she is behaving in such a way. She is thinking of her father and how "they should lay him i' the cold ground". Through all that has happened in the kingdom, first the death of Hamlet's father and then the death of Polonius and the loss of her lover who has run away, Ophelia is suffering and as a result kills herself. Her death symbolizes the destruction of the kingdom. The evil that started with the murder of Hamlet's father came all the way to the point of effecting Ophelia who had no part in the evil. All because of Hamlet's revenge, or really Claudius' evil actions, innocent Ophelia is dead.

4.In the end of Act 3 Hamlet still is not acting in a way that would be called "mad" or at least mad to the point of not being able to control it. However, this act is where Hamlet begins to turn that way especially when he kills Polonius on accident. And later he doesn't seem to be overly concerned about his mistake. His anger and his need for revenge is understandable, but is beginning to get worse. When comparing Hamlet's action to the way Ophelia acted he is not quite as mad, because he is still pretending instead. Hamlet changes his attitude back and forth where Ophelia did not flip flop. The way he talks is at one moment in a way of pretending and in another angry and destructive and mad. Hamlet tries to make it seem that he is insane so that Claudius will not find him threatening especially to Laertes and therefore he is still conscious about what he is doing and not just uncontrollably mad.

*Laertes is the character that most reflects some of the characteristics of Hamlet. He is the foil in the play. Just as Hamlet's father is killed so is Laertes;. The two resemble each other in the fact that the both are outraged and seek revenge, Hamlet from Claudius and Laertes from Hamlet. The difference is Hamlet does not act right away and kill Claudius when he first hears from the ghost, he waits to find out the truth for himself. Laertes really does not hesitate in wanting Hamlet to pay the price for his father (and Ophelia's) death. Nothing will slow Laertes down or hold him back from killing Hamlet. Hamlet in a way acts more rationally than he does.

Hamlet

1. Scene 1 of the second act reveals some characteristics regarding Polonius particularly. The first line that Polonius says is "Give him this money and these notes, Reynaldo", referring to Laertes. This could show that Polonius generally wants to take care of Laertes, making sure he has the money he needs. It seems that despite some of the ridiculous things Polonius does, he does genuinely care about his children. Although Reynaldo is being ordered by Polonius to go spy on Laertes, maybe this is out of concern for his son as well. He mentions drinking, fencing, swearing, quarreling, and Drabbing as some of the things in which Laetes could be doing. Polonius does not always need to appear as a terrible guy, just maybe a protective father. Further along in the scene, however, Polonius works to manipulate Reynaldo into going and seeing what it is Laertes does. He reaches him how should ask questions to Laertes' friends in order to find out what they are doing. Polonius says, "Your bait of falsehood takes this carp of truth" as well as "By indirections find directions". These statements suggest that Polonius is deceitful and wishes for Reynaldo to be just as tricky or sly in finding out about Laertes. The third incident that reflects the character or Polonius is seen in his conversation with his daughter, Ophelia. In his final statements to her he says, "it is common for the young sort to lack discretion". As previously seen in the story, Polonius dictates how Ophelia should live her life. By this comment he is suggesting that he is older and wiser. Polonius plays the role of the common male character, who is in control and all-knowing.

2. In scene two Rosencrantz and Guildenstern try to figure out the reason behind Hamlet's madness. Through their conversation it seems that Hamlet's madness is self-inflicted and is not truly crazy. I think the first sign of this is when Hamlet tells his friends that he knows the King and Queen have sent them to him. Being sure of this shows that Hamlet is aware of his aunt and uncle's concern regarding the madness that has come over him recently. Hamlet even goes on to say that he knows the reason for his friend's coming. He says they have come because he has lost his "mirth" and "forgone all custom of exercises". By recognizing the purpose of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern's visit it seems that Hamlet knows how he's been acting and is doing it on purpose. He knows how his madness is causing his aunt and uncle to react and that is exactly what he wanted. Hamlet is clearly aware that he has changed, and admits to this when he recognizes the reason for the visit. After the trumpets sound and the players come it can finally be concluded that Hamlet is causing himself to be mad. He bluntly says, "my uncle-father and aunt-mother are deceived", meaning that he is in fact tricking them. He continues by saying "I am but mad north-north-west: when the wind is southerly I know a hawk from a handsaw". Hamlet is admitting that he only sometimes pretends to be mad, when really he is not. He is certainly choosing when he will appear crazy, and that is especially during the times he is in from of his aunt and uncle. Hamlet's madness is definitely purposeful.

3. Polonius and Claudius listen in on Hamlet's conversation in order to see if he is mad because of his love for Ophelia or not. Afterwards the king decides that it does not seem that Hamlet has been going crazy because of love, but Polonius still thinks that it could be the reason. Hamlet talks about suicide and acts as if the world is a terrible place for anyone to want to be. He becomes rude toward Ophelia and says that he no longer loves her. He tells her, "Get thee to a nunnery: why wouldst thou be a breeder of sinners?". It seems that Hamlet is not only mad at Ophelia but to everyone in general, but nonetheless his attitude toward her has become completely opposite than it was before. There is question on why this has happened, but it seems that perhaps one possibility is that Hamlet's life is now dedicated to searching and killing his father's murderer. That has become the most important thing to him and maybe Ophelia has become thrown on the back burner because of it. At this point it seems possible that he really does love her somewhere deep inside of him but he has let everything that is going on around him drive him crazy as well as gotten in the way of his love for Ophelia.

Travel and Discovery and Hamlet

1. I am presenting the travel and discovery works in class today.

1. The opening scene of Hamlet gives an eerie and dark mood to the play. It seems to be quiet as the men stand outside. The watchmen are frightened and startle each other. They both believe they have seen apparitions in the form of the King. Before anything really occurs in the play the audience, or reader, knows that this creepy mood is significant in some way. The fact that they speak of the ghost right from the start shows what will be important in the following scenes. Bernardo and Marcellus talk in a whisper about what they have seen and the overall scene seems eerie to the characters and the reader. In scene IV the men are in the same place as they were in scene I. Haratio and Marcellus are there this time and look around quietly. It is night again and they wait to see if the ghost appears. Both scenes have the same mood.

2. Toward his son, Polonius acts kindly and trusts him to go on his own. He gives him encouraging advice, but allows him to make his own decisions. Laertes basically tells Polonius that he is leaving for school and that's that. However, with Ophelia he acts as a typical father by not wanting her to be with Hamlet. His decision does not seen completely evil, but maybe just protective. Laertes and Polonius seem to think that she is naive and incapable of making her own decisions. This was typically what was assumed of most girls of that time. Perhaps Laertes acts toward Ophelia as a protective brother would, trying to make sure nothing happens to her just like her father. The men clearly are in control of the household and and the women are expected to do as they say. Ophelia does not argue with her father and brother but instead obeys. This reflects the gender roles of the period- men being in charge and all-knowing and women being less than them and ignorant.

3. The ghost says that he is Hamlet's father and that he seeks revenge. He explains to Hamlet how he was killed. He seems selfish and comes just to ask a favor from his son. He comes to ask Hamlet to kill the one who killed him so that he can be free. Hamlet responds in a way that acknowledges that he has heard the ghost but seems unsure of whether it was really his uncle who killed him. Despite his uncertainty he swears that he will kill his father's murderer. His father tells him that it is his uncle that he must kill. Hamlet concocts a plan to act crazy in order to figure out who is truly the murderer. He hopes to trick his uncle to find out if it is in fact him who killed his father and gives hints of this plan.

Don Quixote & Praise of Folly

1. Despite Don Quixote's insanity Cervantes still manages to incorporate what would be considered Renaissance-style humanism. It is the reasons that motivated Don Quixote to act like he did that reflect this humanism. He acted out of courage and wanted to show qualities of a knight. He wanted to help others and generally rid the world of evil. This obsession with displaying knightly qualities eventually led to destruction. Don Quixote began hurting others on his journey to try and save them. Despite this, he can still be admired for being so chivalrous and perhaps to them excused for harming others because he was crazy. During the Renaissance what was thought to be right or wrong was not what matters. What was important was the reasons behind the actions. Don Quixote just had a passion of becoming this knight and the story reflects the idea of "beauty" that the Renaissance literature often portrayed.

2. Don Quixote is written from a third person point of view which makes the narrator, or Cervantes, able to persuade how the audience feels toward Don Quixote. It seems that Cervantes wants to portray Don Quixote as insane or at least in a way that builds sympathy from the reader. Perhaps this was so the reader might not judge him as harshly for the negative things he does but instead remember him for his brave actions. Cervantes began writing Don Quixote while he was in jail. Maybe he felt sorry for the insane sort of people he saw there. Don Quixote displays such dedication through his adventure and maybe Cervantes was not depicting insanity as being as awful as it often seems. In his work he is reflecting the thought that of those in the Renaissance that the beauty behind motives is greater than what is morally right.

1. Erasmus focuses on the Catholic church in The Praise of Folly. Through Folly he tells how the rituals in which the Catholics persist in following are meaningless and make their religion controlling or uptight instead of personal. He also criticizes the way they hold Mary in higher regards than Jesus. Erasmus disagrees with the Catholic church's sale of indulgences as well. This is typical done to buy one's relatives out of purgatory and into Heaven. Erasmus refers to it as a way to wipe away sins. Erasmus is condemning and mocking this ritual as he says, "imagine here... some businessman or soldier or judge who thinks that if he throws into the collection basket one coin from all his plunder, the whole cespool of his sinful life will be immediately wiped out". He also finds that the superstitions they hold are ridiculous. A lot of what Erasmus says in The Praise of Folly follows the lines of Biblical theology. The practices of the church in which he condemns are in fact things that are not found in the Bible- such as the selling of indulgences. The Catholic church's way of praising Mary is also not what the Bible teaches and Erasmus is pointing out that the Catholic church has strayed away from what is truly in the Bible and has become a religion that is based on rituals that man has created. However, some of what Erasmus says seems a little off from what Christians today believe.. It seems that he believes that it is through folly in which true wisdom is gained- saying that foolishness is necessary. Although this seems logical I do not think that Bible suggests that we should be foolish it's just that we are often foolish.

2. In The Praise of Folly Erasmus uses satire for the purpose of making his serious message come off in a humorous way. Writing in this way often keeps the writer in a safe position. Particularly, in having his story told from an old woman dressed as a jester, Erasmus can hide behind her in a way. He can either say that those were simply the words of the old lady, or he can say that it was what he truly thought. Many writers take this method when writing on such serious and sensitive subjects. A comic approach is usually thought to be a good method in bringing up such controversial ideas. By having a woman named Folly dressed as a jester addressing a crowd makes Erasmus' whole story seem like foolishness. Although to him it really is serious by hiding behind such satire he can at least pretend, if necessary, that it was not his actually thoughts. This satire would keep him away from any negative reactions and is quite an impressive idea to address such issues.

Paradise Lost

1. Although Milton takes many ideas from the Bible, Paradise Lost includes some details that Milton creates on his own. Milton says that he will "assert Eternal Providence, And justify the ways of God to men". Unfortunately Milton will never be able to understand God and explain in his epic all that God intended, so his product resulted in some false ideas or at least some that are not biblical. In Book 1 he mentions that Satan's legions were given the names of the "idols known afterwards in Canaan and the countries adjoining" mostly saying that they serve fake gods. I believe that the Bible does not mention the names of any of "angels" that fell with Satan. For the most part Milton stretches out the Biblical account of the Fall adding more details which are manly his own ideas. Milton writes that it is Beelzebub who is next to Satan in power. This is not something that I believe the Bible mentions. The Bible doesn't mention much about Satan's fall from Heaven but throughout book 1 Milton describes Hell, Satan, and his legions in vivid detail portraying him to be powerful and almost a great warrior. Book 2 goes on saying that Satan has the option to fight back for his spot in Heaven which is definitely not what the Bible says. It seems that although the Bible makes Hell seem like a place of destruction and as a lake of fire, Milton portrays it as a place that's not so bad after all. God is the ruler of all things, even Satan, but Paradise Lost makes it sound like Satan had a chance to fight back.

2. I think Milton's purpose was not necessarily to contradict the Bible but to bring about a new idea or version that would shock its readers as well entertain as he incorporated his ideas. He wanted to be different and stand out from previously written prose and that is what he did. Some details that he incorporated seem logical and perhaps could have happened where others do not. For the most part I think reading Paradise Lost does not help one better understand the fall because it is not accurate. For people who did not or do not have a Bible to compare it to might be misled. For instance, when Satan was cast out of Heaven the Bible does not say that he was given another chance. But, Milton does show the evilness of Satan and how he wishes to destroy this new race that God has created by first tricking Adam and Eve. Some aspects of the story are interesting to read and think about. I particularly liked on page 2588 where Adam is told to give names to the animals. Milton mentions Adam does this with the knowledge God gave him. I always wondered how Adam thought up the names for animals, seeing as they are pretty strange names, but this part made me think that of course God was really the one who named them. Such small details that Milton writes can really help one think deeper into the actually true stories from the Bible. Paradise Lost may however appeal to non-Christians more than the Bible might which could be better than reading nothing at all about the differences of heaven and hell and such. It doesn't seem that the story addresses non-believers and where they stand. Perhaps it was written in hopes of helping those who are already saved.

3. In Paradise Lost Adam first states that him and Eve will be "one flash, one heart, one soul". She was made without having yet sinned and came with "innocence and virgin modesty". Adam admires her beauty in an harmless way, free of lustful desires. The beginning of Milton's story start out similar to that of the Bible's account. Adam and Eve have a relationship that is pure and sinless. The two are in charge of this garden in Paradise and everything seems perfect. However once Eve decides that the two should work separately but Adam is fearful that the enemy might come to her since she is alone. Adam gives in and let's her go showing that he is not the dominant one or head of this relationship. When Eve is tempted, despite the warning given to them she gives in. She is fascinated that the snake can talk and is flattered by his remarks. Adam then decides "through vehemence of love, to perish with her". This shows more of a romantic story than found in the Bible. Adam just decides he will perish too so he can be with Eve for he cannot imagine being alone again. It seems to not phase Adam that he is disobeying God he just decides he's so in love he can't be without her. The two are now attracted to each other out of lust amongst other things. The two argued back and forth on who had caused it "And of their vain contest appeared no end". The couples relationship before they sinned seemed wonderful, but after was turned to bickering and lust.

4. It seems that one of the main themes in Paradise Lost is the desire for obtaining knowledge. It was this desire that caused Eve to sin and give into the serpent's temptations. He tells Eve that through the fruit on the Tree of Knowledge he learned his speech and ability to reason. These abilities appealed to Eve just as they appeal to people today. People believe that the more knowledge you obtain the more successful you will become. In many cases this proves to be true but in some cases inquiring knowledge is negative. People are constantly drawn to constantly learning more and more. Some people feel that have can outsmart anyone, including God. Often times people feel on top of the world when they have attained so much knowledge and don't stop to see that knowledge is given to them from God. The theme of temptation is a contemporary issue amongst people today as it has been ever since the day of Adam and Eve. People are constantly being tricked by lies, but mainly the lie of deceit that comes straight from Satan. We are constantly being deceived and made to think that sin is not as bad as it seems. The serpent sure does make the fruit from the forbidden tree seem pretty amazing to Eve when really she knew before that it wasn't. Temptation is a part of everyday life. Even the temptation from other people such as Adam wanting to be so badly with Eve that he ate the fruit to do so. The issues that can now be seen in society are due to the Fall that Milton describes from the Bible. He shows that changes in life that occurred and have effected us ever since.

John Donne

Donne's Holy Sonnet "Death Be Not Proud" reflects his religious beliefs. Donne grew up in a Catholic home but because of this he was denied a degree at the schools he went to and could not attain a well paying job. It was for these reasons he probably joined the English Church. No matter which church he truly felt connected to it is reasonable to believe through his poem that he felt sure there was a Heaven and that he would be going there. His poem suggests that there is no need to fear death - a common though amongst Christians. If you know there is eternal life in Heaven there is no reason to fear dying. The first lines of this poem are among the most remembered out of the collection of Holy Sonnets. Donne speaks to death telling it not to be proud because it's really not as scary as everyone thinks. He compares death to taking a nap and says that such a nap can simply come from taking drugs. Once a person awakes from this sleep, he says, death will die. Donne's poem is obviously a sonnet and has a mixed up rhyme scheme. It begins with the usual ABBA pattern but ends without it.

Everyman

In the story God speaks about how sin has affected everyone and caused them to forget about his sacrifice. God gets Death to go to Everyman and tell him there will be a final reckoning. Through the story of Everyman the Biblical principle, that every person will have to face a final judgment, is presented. It is important that Everyman keeps the end in mind. Another Biblical truth is seen when Everyman meets with Goods and Good Deeds. Neither of whom can make the trip with him- meaning that no possessions or good works will crossover into the afterlife. There is no need to save up riches on earth but there is no use. Everyman learns from Confession another and most important principle, that he must confess and says "Wash from me the spots of vice unclean, that on me no sin may be seen". The main ideas of “Everyman” actually seem to be Catholic. Knowledge tells Everyman to go the Priest and receive “the holy sacrament and ointment”. To most Catholics the priest is the “go to guy” who sits in between man and God. Everyman could not enter heaven without first receiving these sacraments from the priest. Everyman’s belief that good deeds could get him into heaven is also an idea that man Catholics hold to.

In 1495, the date "Everyman" was written, the Catholic church was still growing more and more powerful. It controlled every aspect of living for those in England. A person was either with the Catholic church or against it. Those who went against the church were heretics and often times received terrible punishments. The Spanish Inquisition (1478) was only one attempt to rid those who were against it- burning thousands at the stake. Everyday life and morals were built under the beliefs of the Catholics. People seemed to almost be brainwashed into only believing the Catholic church. They were taught that they must go through the priest to get to heaven- an idea expressed in "Everyman". An abundance of money was given to the church and despite all of its absurdities no one knew any other way of life. The system was corrupt but there was little anyone could do. I do not believe that the story of "Everyman" is very far off from what some people, specifically Catholic's, believe today. Many Catholics still think that they must go though the priest and confess to him. The priest is given a high or sacred position just like in the story. Outside of Catholicism - the idea that good works can get a person to heaven - is sadly an idea of many today. Some also think that all the riches they accumulate on earth will go with them when they die. Christians even sometimes forget that we are supposed to be concerned with heavenly, not earthly treasure. I really enjoyed the story of "Everyman" and I think that great lessons can be learned from it.

Lanval

1. Lanval doesn't hold a rare title, he is a knight, but unlike the others he was not given land or women from King Arthur. Despite this, he is envied because of his "valor, generosity, beauty and prowess" Lanval is poor and a rather unfortunate fellow. This is was not a usual characteristic of men. It is typical that men were wealthy and had man women flocking after them. However, Lanval was content and "asked for nothing". Lanval is described as well-mannered as he stood to meet the two beautiful damsels. He is also described as not being foolish - a good trait to have I'd say. After meeting his lover and gaining her riches he was still a giving man, despite how he had been treated by Arthur. He "performed many honorable acts" and was quite generous toward others. During the Middle Ages people held a high value of chivalry. Men who were romantic and sought love were admired. This was particularly expected of a knight. Lanval seemed to be charming and was madly in love. He even told the Queen off and boasted about the lover which caused great trouble.It was the deep love that Lanval had that really reflected the ideas of the culture.

2. I do not think that the work is necessarily feminist, but it definitely shows a change in style and ideas due to the new female perspective. The fact that Lanval's lover is rich and beautiful and seems to be doing just fine without a male shows a definite change in ideas. Usually women were depicted as poor and helpless without a man. Because the writer is a female she brought in her ideas that woman did not need a man but in fact sometimes men are the ones who need a woman. In this case Lanval becomes wealthy when he pairs with his lover. In the end she is the one who comes to Lanval's rescue and saves his life. This shows that the hero of a story does not have to be male because a female can do the same jobs. I believe this was the significance of the Lanval being saved by a woman. I think this work is mild compared to other feminist writings and it doesn't seem to bash males but just to change around the literature that was typical of the time. The women were most likely tired of reading the same old stories of the male hero.

Beowulf

When Beowulf is told to fight Grendel's mother he doesn't hesitate to respond in a way most young men would, "I guarantee you she will not get away". With nothing but his reputation and ego on his mind Beowulf prepared to leave, "indifferent to death". He was brave and willing to do what he needed to in order to become a hero for the people. Grendel's mother was hardly a threat to Beowulf but when it came time to fight the dragon things changed. Beowulf said, "I will pursue this fight for the glory of winning". Nothing was going to hold Beowulf back. He had done it once and he was going to do it again. I do not think Beowulf's drive to win had changed but his strength. When he attacks the dragon with his sword he realizes that he is no match for the dragon and is doomed to die. Beowulf's impressive change in character is seen when he makes this realization. He knows that he will die but he continues to fight despite knowing he will receive none of the treasure. He presses on for his people and for Wiglaf. He has a desire to leave something behind for them. He gives thanks to God for allowing him to get the treasure. Unlike before when in his youth he seemed concerned with doing everything for himself, Beowulf dies speaking selfless words.

It is Beowulf's willingness to fight and bravery that makes him the ideal "hero" to those in the Middle Ages. When Beowulf fights Grendel's mother one side of this heroism shines. It is the side of courage and dedication, yet immaturity. He seems to have little hesitation as he prepares to fight and this represents a great hero. Through Beowulf's fight with the dragon a different side to this hero is seen. It is one of obligation or duty for his people, seeing as he is king. At this point Beowulf is older and more mature and knowledgeable. The sacrifice he makes to die for his people is still brave and it is the happiness he feels that he can leave behind the treasure for the people. Beowulf seems to have all the characteristics of the typical hero in that time for he uses his strength and power. Although a fiction story some assume that Beowulf was perhaps a real man's name or is at least in reference to a man of the period. I think that even if it is not true Beowulf certainly portrays what people thought an ideal man should be like- strong, dedicated, and prepared for war at all times. This idea that men should be heroic and courageous is typical of the time.

Canterbury Tales

Right from the beginning of The Wife of Bath's Prologue it is apparent how women were regarded during the Middle Ages. Since the ancient world not much had changed and women were still thought to be good for sex and bearing children. The men were still thought to be wiser and more powerful. However, Chaucer does not seem to portray women in The Wife of Bath's tale in such a way. The Wife of Bath says that women and men were given different parts so that they could be used for intercourse. She mentions that because of this, "a husband shall always be my debtor and my slave". Just like the women in Lysistrata she knows that she has power over men because of their want for sex. This power she could use to make her husbands do as she wished. The Wife of Bath is not ashamed of her past and seems to boast about it. However, this would not be something to brag about during the middle ages. Although women of course were thought to be sort of accessories to men used for sex, they were not to be in control over their husbands according to the church. The church would think that the wives should be submissive. The Wife of Bath also spits out a lot of references to the Bible, although misused, does not reflect how most thought of women of that time. The men were thought to be intellectual where the women were not. It is the pardoner who hears The Wife of Bath and screams out “I was about to wed, but now, for shame, why should my body pay a price so dear?” This was definitely not a thought that crossed a mans mind in the Middle Ages for it was the man who was always in control and the wife that she be in fear.

During the middle ages the theme of courtly love constantly appeared in literature. The Canterbury Tales were no different. In The Miller's Tale Absolon is the character who shows courtly love. It is Alisoun that he longs to be with, although she is married and in love with yet another man who is not her husband. Absolon plays his guitar for her and sings "Dear lady, by your will, be kind to me". He offers to be her slave and brings her wine and cakes and money. He is willing to do anything for Alisoun even if it is only to be her servant and this type of emotion was a popular theme in the writings of that time. There are also several occasions that the religious beliefs from medieval times can be seen in The Miller's Tale. These years were named the "age of faith" and it is apparent that Chaucer incorporated at least some belief in Christ or hint of Catholicism in his work. Throughout the tale there are several saint's that are mentioned. Chaucer mentions that Nicholas sings a song titled "Angelus to the Virgin" about Gabriel telling Mary she will have a son. He writes that Alisoun, "Now in her Christian duty, one saint's day, To the parish church this good wife made her way". This parish church is typical of a episcopal church and reflects the time period. As Alison and Nicholas were together the church bells rang. Although not necessarily key elements to the story the hint of religious practices are still found and reflect the time. Ironically, another characteristic of the values of the middle ages are that of mystery and magic. The carpenter cries for help from a saint who casts out demons and also speaks of a charm to protect his house from these demons.

Medieval

MEDIEVAL LYRICS
It was typical of Medieval poems to be written on the topic of love or religion. The religious poems were often written by clerics or monks and used in religious services. Sometimes they were words that were paired with a tune. "A Hymn to Holy Women" by Notker Balbulus, a monk,wrote several of these such poems. He begins by saying that the ladder stretches to heaven and by this I believe he means the cross. At the bottom of this cross is Satan, the dragon, who prevents people from climbing the ladder without being torn. At the top of the ladder is a young man which women can freely reach thanks to Mary giving birth to Christ. The poem goes on to say that because the Devil seduced Eve everyone can be grabbed by the devil and for this women wish to avenge Eve. If this poem was in fact sang as a hymn it seems that it would make quite a strange song.

MEDIEVAL WOMEN
A. During the Middle Ages women were still thought to be inferior to men. Some thought that the Bible suggested this by remarks such as woman "shalt be under the man's power". It is such verses in the Bible containing comments about men and women that still create arguments even today. The medieval women were supposed to be controlled by their husbands and were used to provide anything they needed sexually and maybe to bear children, especially males. Still today some people say that it was man who was created in God's perfect image and woman were just made from Adam's rib and therefore less perfect than man. Even the verses that say women shall be quiet in the church are taken out of context today and used to say that women should not hold jobs in the church. It was the church leaders such as Tertullian who made misogynistic comments such as "women are the devil's gateway". I believe these church fathers influenced those of the time but I do not think these misconceptions have disappeared since. Certainly women now have moved up in society for they can hold the same jobs as men and even run for president but I do not think all misconceptions have disappeared. Specifically in churches today I think these ideas of women being inferior are still debated but also outside of the church. Women are still often portrayed to be worse at sports, or not as smart, or just good for sex.

The textbook specifically mentions two sources which contain arguments against these negatives views of women. The Southern Passion defended the accusation that women were to blame for man's lust- saying that women as a whole should not be blamed. This argument seems to be fairly strong. Only some women who may cause men to lust should not be enough to bring such negative judgments among all women. Letter from the God of Love is one of the first feminist works and discusses the slandering of women. The writer, Christine de Pizan, said to men that"in slandering women they are slandering their own mothers and sisters". This argument seems logical and valid but sadly men probably thought the same things about their mothers or sisters. It was the actions of Joan of Arc that demonstrated the abilities of women.

SIR GAWAIN

The story of Sir Gawain shows the importance of chivalry to the medieval culture. The Green Knight arrives during a fifteen day long feast, which reflects the time period. He wants to play a game and wishes for someone to step up. This idea of competition was a popular theme in the culture as well as the literature of the Middle Ages. Sir Gawain shows his courage as he steps up to the Green Knight to fight instead of Arthur. After being granted a year of freedom before he must come and be struck by the Knight- he demonstrates his honesty or faithfulness by returning. This trait of faithfulness and bravery was one that was greatly respected by those during the time. This sacrifice made by Sir Gawain - to potentially die in replace of Arthur - reflects Christ's sacrifice. It is possibly this comparison that could reflect the religious views of the time as well the incorporation of Christmas in the story and its importance and celebrations for the occasion.

Confessions & 1001 Nights

It seems that Augustine had love and respect for his mother. Their relationship seemed close and through the text it seems that he admired her faith in God. The way she acted to situations is what impacted Augustine's life. Particularly the way she acted toward her husband was impressive and showed that she had great faith. Despite her husbands temper she never once acted or spoke negatively toward him. Neither did she speak negatively about him or about other people. She was determined to see her husband come to know the Lord as well, which we see she did eventually succeed in doing. Augustine suggests that after her husband's death she acted as a widow should according to 1 Timothy 5 in that "she had been the wife of one husband, had requited to her parents, had governed her house piously, was well reported of for good works. She had brought up her children, being in labor of them as often as she saw them swerving away from You". These lines specifically showed her character as Augustine saw it. When his mother died he says that he was hurt because he was used to the fact that she was always around but he knew that he shouldn't cry because "she had not died miserably". Augustine's mother seemed to be an admirable Christian women who Augustine tried to learn from.

During a time when the Roman empire was beginning to tear apart Augustine took a step toward toward rebuilding the church. Although he was not a Christian until far into his life Augustine's faith was respectable then and even still today. His "Confessions" he thought would express this faith. It is obvious that Augustine was a follower of Christ and relyed on him. He writes that "all good things are from You, O God, and from God is all my health". Augustine seems to have trust in God for everything. Throughtout his writing he speaks to God as his Lord. Through the story he writes of his mother one can see Augustine's true character. Losing a mother is probably one of the hardest things someone has to go through and yet he knows that she is with the Lord and shouldn't mourn for her for she is happy. The way he looked up to his mother for the way she acted especially to her husband when she was not saved showed his character at well. He was truly a man who is constantly wanting to learn more and better himself for Christ. Augustine also includes several references to the Bible and this shows just how much he studied it and practiced
it.

In "One Thousand and One Nights" I believe that vizier's daughter, Shaharazad, can be seen as heroic. She certainly was brave for being willing to marry Shahrayar knowing that for three years he had continued to kill a woman each night. Not to mention if she did live to see the next morning she knew she'd be at risk for he probably had at least some kind of STD. Shaharazad was not phased, despite her father's attempt to persuade her, she was going to risk her life for the others. The percentage of woman that had survived a not with Shaharazad was not exactly in her favor. Because of her skills in storytelling Shaharazad survives. Not only do her stories save her life, but she uses them to teach Shahrayar in order to help the pain of his first wife's infidelity. Shaharazad is quite different than the heroes found in literature at this time. Most significantly she is a woman who stands up against a man. It's not everyday that a man wants to lose to a woman. She was clever and educated and for a woman to be depicted this way was not common. Women were thought to be simply as accessories with not enough sense to ever speak their opinions. She is a unique hero due to the fact that she used her brains instead of her muscles. Other heroes received their honor because they had killed the evil character but Shaharazad had simply deceived him as well as taught him to be better and change his ways.

Within the story of Shahrayar and Shaharazad lies many more tales told by different characters each leading to the other. In the short stories it seems that the themes are the same: the accusing of the innocent but then the prolonging of their death by using a story. Ironically this is what is happening to the women that Shahrayar is killing. In "The Story of the Merchant and the Demon" the demon comes to the merchant accusing him of murdering his son by hitting him the pits of his dates. Although clearly by accident, the merchant will be killed a year later. When he returns to the spot he is to meet the demon three men arrive, only to prolong the merchants death even further by engaging him in a continuous story. Through Shaharazad's story that she shares with her sister and Shahrayar she is not only prolonging her own death, although innocent and undeserving, she is being deceitful as well as teaching Shahrayar a lesson of this unfairness. In the story of the ox and the donkey the donkey gives advice to help the ox with the hard labor he is forced to do but in return the donkey is punished. Because the ox fakes sick the donkey must do his work for the day. The donkey in this tale is the innocent character who receives punishment. Shaarazad's father is the one telling this story to convince her not to go to save others for she should not have to suffer seeing as she has done nothing wrong.

Antigone

Creon agrees that Antigone must be put to death, not because he wants to but because he feels he has to. He is angered that she has touched her brother's dead body despite him saying not to. He thinks that she did not hesitate to do it because she thought she had power or an advantage because she was Oedipus' daughter. Despite knowing that she would be killed Antigone knew she must give Polynices a proper burial. Creon does not plan on killing her unless anyone else finds out about what she has done. Antigone's death reflects how important honor and power was to the Greeks. Creon also held onto his pride. When his son tried to convince him not to kill Antigone he remained unmoved. He could not let his son tell him what to do or let his people know that he had been the reason for changing his mind. Even after his son, Haemon, says that he will die if Antigone does, Creon is still more concerned with his ego or reputation, as well as sticking to his word. After the death of his son and also his wife Creon realizes that perhaps what he valued above his family was not as important as he thought.

It seems that Sophocles and the Greeks believed that it was better to die young or for a purpose and be rewarded once dead then to stay on earth and receive no rewards in the afterlife. Antigone was not afraid to die, and was in fact aware that she would. She had a reason worth dying for and I think that the Greeks were brave in believing that dying for a cause was a noble act. During this time women were still uneducated and not thought of as having much to say. Sophocles portrays Antigone in a respectable and brave way in his work I think. Instead of choosing to follow what those on earth say (Creon telling her not to touch the body) she instead follows the gods. This is the point Sophocles wants to get across, that obeying the gods is what matters because your fate lies in their hands, not in man's.

Odeipus the King

In "Oedipus the King" it is evident that Sophocles incorporated the values of the Greeks from that period. During this time earth was thought to be ruled by gods and other supernatural beings. It is the Sphinx who is said to have the curse over the city of Thebes. The Sphinx's riddle is to be solved because it held the city captive. The oracle is also mentioned, specifically the Delphic Oracle. These oracles were often thought to have the power to predict the future. Creon is sent to ask the oracle how to stop the plague. The role of the gods played a major role in Greek culture as well. The chorus in "Oedipus the King" sings to these gods. They hope Apollo, Athena, and Artemis can help save their city. Another prophet Tiresias is sought after for help to free the city of the plague as well. Toward the end of the story through the talks of Oedipus and Jocasta it is clear how much the gods have an impact on the people. They rely on the prophesies and realize that if the prophesies are false than there is no real pattern or system on earth and everything is left to change. The values of Jocasta are made clear when she is mortified by the fact that her husband might not really be from a royal family. Sophocles includes the beliefs of the people in Greece during the time he writes. It is likely that he too follows the ways of his people and rely on gods to provide the order on earth.

Oedipus was a hero by the standards of the Greeks. From the beginning of "Oedipus the King" was a great leader, one concerned for his people. Before they asked he was already trying to put a stop to the plague. He seems dedicated to finding Lauis' murderer and giving him the punishment he deserves- even if it is his only family member. He is outraged by the murder this makes myself as well as the Greeks compassionate toward Oedipus, despite knowing that it is himself that is the murderer. He seems genuinely concerned for his city. Due to Oedipus' fall he can be seen as a tragic hero. Even depite the fact that Oedipus was actually Lauis' murderer I think that he was still loved. It seems that he feels terrible for what has happened and the reader feels sympathy toward him as he leaves his daughters and wishes them a better life than the one he lived. Oedipus is certainly concerned for his people as well as his family and this made him a hero.

Lysistrata: Personal Response

I thought that Lysistrata was a comical story of the ending of the Peloponnesian War. The way that the women were so confident in the fact that the men would eventually need sex and end the war was humorous to me. There has always been a battle between the sexes and I thought it was interesting to see that it was happening even then. It is amazing that this play, being one of the first ever written, could still appeal to readers today. I was also surprised at how the opinion of having provocative language has fluctuated throughout the years. During that time such sexual or vulgar language appeared to be accepted and openly talked about, where years latter it would be looked down upon, and now today it would hardly offend anyone. The most shocking factor of the play was how detailed and discussed some of the sexual parts of the play were.

I find that what the women did to the men was comical but almost sad. They used what they new they had, looks and sex, to trick the men into ending the war. It was sad to me that withholding sex was what they had to do to get their husband’s attention and even prove that they could be powerful. I think Lysistrata as a character was motivating and can even still today encourage a woman to take charge. Her character makes the statement that women can be powerful .

Lysistrata: Greek Culture

In Lysistrata, the incorporation of the Acropolis demonstrates the values of the Greeks. The Greek world was full of gods and goddess such as Athena, the goddess of wisdom & war. These gods as well the the Acropolis was the center of Athens. It not only held a sanctuary to Athena but also the money that would be spent on the war. It was also tradition to make sacrifices in ancient Greece to the gods and in Lysistrata the women, instead of sacrificing a sheep, pray over wine. They all drink the wine as an oath to “cement their friendship”. The most significant values that can be seen through the story are those pertaining to the men’s relationship with their wives. During this time women had little or no power as Lysistrata demonstrates. Men were dedicated to war and concerned about little else. Their wives were to serve them when they returned home and bear their children. Although it is a silly tale of how the Peloponnesian war ended, the story of Lysistrata portrays the values of the period accurately.

Lysistrata: Women

The women in Lysistrata were portrayed in a way that was typical of the time period and even throughout generations that followed. The women in Greece appear to be typical “trophy wives”, serving the purpose of parading around and doing sexual favors for the men. The women are always dressed in lovely, feminine blouses and gowns of yellow silk and flowers with slippers. They are dolls for their husbands to play with; dressed up and ready to do what they please. Lysistrata says, "we are good for nothing but love and lewdness". She knows, and is angered, that that is all they have come to be used for.

In Greek culture women had little freedom outside of the home. Because their husbands were often away women did become in control of their homes. This is evident in Lysistrata; the women were home longing for their husband’s return from war. The women’s jobs were to make meals, please their husbands (when they were home), and have their children. The women in Lysistrata appeared aware of the purpose they served. They knew that if they taunted their husbands and refused sex that the men would eventually have to declare an end to the war.

Lysistrata defies the stereotypes of the day because she refused to be ruled by her husband. She decided that women could have power too, and set out to prove it. This was a brave act for a woman at the time. Lysistrata says they “must refrain from the male altogether”. Despite telling the women the women that they must abstain from what the men wanted them to be, they all used their bodies to flaunt in front of their men so that they crave sex from them.

Battles in The Odyssey

The battle scenes described by Homer in The Odyssey reflect the Greek Culture of the time. Especially in Sparta, boys were trained at a young age to fight and become the best military men they could be. Being prepared for battle meant everything to them. By reading of battles in The Odyssey it is evident that war was what consumed the thoughts of the Greeks. Those who did not experience battle for themselves were probably intrigued by thre reading of it. The grusome details were a reality to those during the time and reading it did not phase them. It was interesting and exciting.

Homer is not to detailed in his writing about the battles. Such grusome details were entertaining and exciting and appealed to those during that time and still do to most readers today. Despite seeming discusting and unneccesary to some, this disturbing detail was the concept of the tales of the time period. War was happening all around the Greeks and reading about it was appealing.

I do not think that the narrative addresses brutality necessarily as something to celebrate. Instead I think it approaches it by saying that it is unavoidable and therefore might as well discussed. Homer adds the details making it seem like it is completely fact. The details are necessary to The Odyssey for without them a story of war could not be told. What is a war story without grotesque details of the battle scenes?

Odysseus in The Odyssey

In book 9 of The Osyssey Odysseus demonstrates cunning behavior when he arrives to the land of Cyclopes. When trapped in the cave of Polyphemus, Odysseus has almost no other choice than to deceive Polyphemus in order to escape. Polyphemus killed two of Odysseus’ men right upon his arrival and Odysseus needed a witty plan of escape. Odysseus gave wine to Polyphemus in order to get him drunk and while drunk he asks Odysseus’ name. Odysseus responds that his name is “nobody”. Then while Polyphemus was asleep the men stabbed through his eyes with a stake. When the other Cyclops heard his screams they asked what was wrong and he responded, “Nobody’s killing me now”. Polyphemus had been tricked and when morning came Odysseeus and his men escaped by clinging to the ribs of the rams, unseen by Polyphemus.

Although the lies that Odysseus tells in order to escape may seem to speak negatively on his character the slyness should be somewhat praised. The tricks that Odysseus thought of were impressive in the fact that they were creative. One must have quite a talent and imagination to think of such witty ideas. He was also not only trying to save his own life, but his men’s also. This was a brave and thoughtful thing to do in a way.

I do not think that Odysseus’ deceiving ways make him any less of a hero. There was hardly another option for Odysseus to take in the escape of him and his men. Although not so much the stardard heroic story where one brave man risks his own life to save the others, he does save them none of the less. Odysseus could have taken other means and completely killed Polyphemus but he did not. Odysseus used another impressive, heroic plan.

Achilles

In the beginning of the readings we find that Achilles is seeking revenge for the killing of his friend Patroclus. Although it seems wrong of Achilles to kill Hector, his vengeance shows Achilles love and loyalty to Patroclus. Achilles feels that he will do whatever it takes to get the revenge he feels he deserves. He chases Hector until Athena tricks Hector and convinces him to face Achilles. Before fighting, Hector asks that Achilles will agree that depending on who wins he will not dishonor the other man’s corpse. Achilles refuses and once Hector is stabbed he speaks out pleading one last time that Achilles would give his body back to his parents. Achilles responds saying, “I wish my stomach would let me cut off your flesh in strips and eat it raw for what you’ve done to me. There is no one and no way to keep the dogs off your head…”. Achilles drags Hector’s body along the trails behind his chariot. Once Priam, Hector’s father, goes to beg for his son’s corpse, Achilles does change his mind (with the help of Zeus) and he releases Hector to his father so that he can have a proper burial.

Irony in The Iliad

In The Iliad, Homer uses irony and prophecy to stir up the emotions of his reader. Particularly Homer uses dramatic irony for the purpose of causing the reader to become sympathetic toward the characters. Dramatic irony is used so that the reader is aware of something that the character is not. During the scene where Achilles is in a never ending chase after Hector, Zeus and Athena converse allowing only the reader to know the fate of the two men. The reader is aware that Athena has tricked Hector into fighting Achilles by pretending to be his brother, Diephobus. When Achilles first misses Hector, Hector believes that the gods are on his side as they once were and he proclaims it to Achilles. However, the reader already knows that soon Hector will be the one who is killed. Such irony intrigues a reader and causes him to fear for Hector. Once Hector sadly realizes he has been tricked by Athena he says, “Death is coming close and there is no escape, Zeus and Apollo must have chosen this long ago, even though they used to be on my side”. Homer is successful in the use of irony to keep his reader engaged in the battles in The Iliad.