Help Notes

Alkanes and alkenes are both hydrocarbons. Alkanes, however, contain only single bonds between the carbons while alkenes contain at least one double bond between carbons. Tests can be conducted to differentiate these two groups of molecules based on whether or not the double bonds can be broken by a halogen. If one takes two test tubes with bromine water and adds an alkene to tube A and an alkane to tube B and then shakes... Alkanes and alkenes are both hydrocarbons. Alkanes, however, contain only single bonds between the carbons while alkenes contain at least one double bond between carbons. Tests can be conducted to differentiate these two groups of molecules based on whether or not the double bonds can be broken by a halogen. If one takes two test tubes with bromine water and adds an alkene to tube A and an alkane to tube B and then shakes the two tubes, a color change will occur in tube A (the color of the solution will change from brown to colorless) while no color change will occ...

As soon as Elie arrives at the work camp of Buna he goes through a perfunctory medical inspection. The primary purpose of the inspection is to see which prisoners had gold crowns. They would be examined by the dentist who would extract them. Elie avoids the extraction by telling the dentist he is sick. Elie reveals that this dentist had been running a "private traffic" of prisoner's gold. He was hanged by the SS. Soon,... As soon as Elie arrives at the work camp of Buna he goes through a perfunctory medical inspection. The primary purpose of the inspection is to see which prisoners had gold crowns. They would be examined by the dentist who would extract them. Elie avoids the extraction by telling the dentist he is sick. Elie reveals that this dentist had been running a "private traffic" of prisoner's gold. He was hanged by the SS. Soon, however, Franek, a foreman at the electrical warehouse, discovers Elie's gold tooth and demands it. Elie refuses but Fr...

Duke Orsino's speech at the opening of Twelfth Night expresses the lovesick feeling that follows the characters of the play, and establishes his character as melancholy and melodramatic. One example of this characterization is in lines 1-3, in which Orsino uses metaphor and personification to express his heartbreak. If music be the food of love, play on; Give me excess of it, that, surfeiting, The appetite may sicken, and so die. The desire for his... Duke Orsino's speech at the opening of Twelfth Night expresses the lovesick feeling that follows the characters of the play, and establishes his character as melancholy and melodramatic. One example of this characterization is in lines 1-3, in which Orsino uses metaphor and personification to express his heartbreak. If music be the food of love, play on; Give me excess of it, that, surfeiting, The appetite may sicken, and so die. The desire for his appetite to "sicken and... die" is personification because it gives his...

 Paul, the protagonist of this story, comes across as innocent. He is depicted as young and "childish." We know his mother is, sadly, not capable of loving her children. Paul confuses the words luck and lucre, a sign of his innocence, and also an unintentional irony, as money will be anything but lucky for him. Additionally, he displays an innocence in riding a rocking horse furiously and then demanding of it, "take me where luck...  Paul, the protagonist of this story, comes across as innocent. He is depicted as young and "childish." We know his mother is, sadly, not capable of loving her children. Paul confuses the words luck and lucre, a sign of his innocence, and also an unintentional irony, as money will be anything but lucky for him. Additionally, he displays an innocence in riding a rocking horse furiously and then demanding of it, "take me where luck is." Anyone with experience would know that wouldn't work.  Further, when Paul begins winn...

The charge balance equation simply says that if you start with an equal number of positive and negative charges (which most substances have), you will end with an equal number of positive and negative charges. So a solution made up of neutral components must itself be net neutral; any positive ions must be matched exactly with an equal quantity of negative ions.The force here is just a matter of plugging into the equation, watching... The charge balance equation simply says that if you start with an equal number of positive and negative charges (which most substances have), you will end with an equal number of positive and negative charges. So a solution made up of neutral components must itself be net neutral; any positive ions must be matched exactly with an equal quantity of negative ions. The force here is just a matter of plugging into the equation, watching our units carefully (especially our molarity M, which is mol/L: `F = (0.224 {lb}/N) (-8.988*10^{9} N/C^2/m^2) * ((10^{-6} {m...

To Kill a Mockingbird takes place in the 1930s in the rural, southern United States. Specifically, it takes place in Alabama. At this time in history, racial prejudices were extreme and condemned anyone who dared to confront the inequality between blacks and whites by treating people of all races equally. It is in this setting that we meet the characters of the story. Much of the town where the story takes place, are typically strong... To Kill a Mockingbird takes place in the 1930s in the rural, southern United States. Specifically, it takes place in Alabama. At this time in history, racial prejudices were extreme and condemned anyone who dared to confront the inequality between blacks and whites by treating people of all races equally. It is in this setting that we meet the characters of the story. Much of the town where the story takes place, are typically strong minded, prejudiced southerners who condemn relationships between blacks and whites, particularly any type of romantic r...

Brutus justifies killing Caesar on the grounds that Caesar would become a king. In his soliloquy in the opening scene of Act II, Brutus describes his former friend as a "serpent's egg/ Which hatch'd would as his kind grow mischievous." Brutus says in the same soliloquy that he has no "personal cause" to kill Caesar. After the deed is done, Brutus observes, "ambition's debt is paid," a theme he repeats in his speech to the... Brutus justifies killing Caesar on the grounds that Caesar would become a king. In his soliloquy in the opening scene of Act II, Brutus describes his former friend as a "serpent's egg/ Which hatch'd would as his kind grow mischievous." Brutus says in the same soliloquy that he has no "personal cause" to kill Caesar. After the deed is done, Brutus observes, "ambition's debt is paid," a theme he repeats in his speech to the people of Rome. He says Caesar was his friend, but that ...

Darkness is a recurring motif as well as a symbol found in Chapter 12 of Gary D. Schmidt's novel Trouble . Darkness fills the chapter from the start, as hitchhikers Henry, Sanborn, and Black Dog are finally picked up in the deepening twilight by a truck driven by Chay. As Chay drives on, the narrator notes that there are "[n]o stars in the sky yet. No moon" (p. 156). When they reach Portland, Maine, the... Darkness is a recurring motif as well as a symbol found in Chapter 12 of Gary D. Schmidt's novel Trouble . Darkness fills the chapter from the start, as hitchhikers Henry, Sanborn, and Black Dog are finally picked up in the deepening twilight by a truck driven by Chay. As Chay drives on, the narrator notes that there are "[n]o stars in the sky yet. No moon" (p. 156). When they reach Portland, Maine, the narrator also notes that the water of Casco Bay "shone black obsidian" (p. 159). All of this darkness serves to symbolize trouble and g...

When Lord Capulet speaks with the County Paris, he uses synecdoche  as well as metaphor when he says, "Let two more summers wither in their pride / Ere we may think her ripe to be a bride" (1.2.10-11). Lord Capulet means that he wants to let two more years pass before Juliet marries, but he figuratively uses summers to stand in for years. Further, he compares the summers themselves to something living, something that could "wither,"... When Lord Capulet speaks with the County Paris, he uses synecdoche  as well as metaphor when he says, "Let two more summers wither in their pride / Ere we may think her ripe to be a bride" (1.2.10-11). Lord Capulet means that he wants to let two more years pass before Juliet marries, but he figuratively uses summers to stand in for years. Further, he compares the summers themselves to something living, something that could "wither," like a flower. Lord Capulet also uses personification when he says, "Earth h...

Mr. Freeman says that quotes on page 122 of Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak . Mr. Freeman is Melinda's art teacher and the one adult who seems to register that something significant and traumatic has happened to Melinda... something that needs to be expressed. Mr. Freeman realizes Melinda is slowly withering away and her lack of self-expression and inability to communicate are two major causes for Melinda's withering. Mr. Freeman attempts to use his class and... Mr. Freeman says that quotes on page 122 of Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak . Mr. Freeman is Melinda's art teacher and the one adult who seems to register that something significant and traumatic has happened to Melinda... something that needs to be expressed. Mr. Freeman realizes Melinda is slowly withering away and her lack of self-expression and inability to communicate are two major causes for Melinda's withering. Mr. Freeman attempts to use his class and its assigned project (to artistically represent o...

Yes, this is a challenging essay! To find the thesis, we should read through it, looking for a place where the author has stated some original idea that much of the essay supports and discusses.  Notice how Saunders opens the essay by describing the story (called "A Worn Path") and by explaining what another critic, Isaacs, has already said about the story and what it means. Then Saunders writes: All things considered, Isaacs' analogies are... Yes, this is a challenging essay! To find the thesis, we should read through it, looking for a place where the author has stated some original idea that much of the essay supports and discusses.  Notice how Saunders opens the essay by describing the story (called "A Worn Path") and by explaining what another critic, Isaacs, has already said about the story and what it means. Then Saunders writes: All things considered, Isaacs' analogies are quite astute and provide us with the basis for a most interesting perspective: ...

A diamonte poem is a diamond shaped poem.  It has a specific format.  It either compares two similar things or contrasts two different (yet related) things.  You will find the format below:               First thing          Adjectives of thing   Verbs showing thing's actions Nouns that will describe the thing     Verbs for the other thing        Adjectives of thing      ... A diamonte poem is a diamond shaped poem.  It has a specific format.  It either compares two similar things or contrasts two different (yet related) things.  You will find the format below:               First thing          Adjectives of thing   Verbs showing thing's actions Nouns that will describe the thing     Verbs for the other thing        Adjectives of thing             Second thing If you want to write about Frindle, consider the story.  Nick is a boy who likes to distract his teachers in class.  He tries to do this by to asking his fifth grade teacher where words come from.  She does not fall for ...

Martin Luther, the important figure in the Protestant Reformation (not to be confused with Martin Luther King, Jr., the American civil rights leader) died of natural causes.  He was 62 years old at the time and had been in poor health for a while.  He most likely died of a heart attack.  His death occurred in Eisleben, the same city in which he had been born, on February 18, 1546. In the 1500s, health care... Martin Luther, the important figure in the Protestant Reformation (not to be confused with Martin Luther King, Jr., the American civil rights leader) died of natural causes.  He was 62 years old at the time and had been in poor health for a while.  He most likely died of a heart attack.  His death occurred in Eisleben, the same city in which he had been born, on February 18, 1546. In the 1500s, health care was not very advanced and people who reached what is now middle age would often have various health problems that were relatively serious.  Luther definitely fell into this cate...

Because the mood of the narrative changes in the third paragraph, the reader is alerted to the seriousness of the townspeople's gathering for the lottery. In the first paragraph, there is a peaceful mood created by the description of a seemingly perfect summer day: The morning of June 27th was clear and sunny, with the fresh warmth of a full-summer day; the flowers were blossoming profusely and the grass was richly green. In the second paragraph,... Because the mood of the narrative changes in the third paragraph, the reader is alerted to the seriousness of the townspeople's gathering for the lottery. In the first paragraph, there is a peaceful mood created by the description of a seemingly perfect summer day: The morning of June 27th was clear and sunny, with the fresh warmth of a full-summer day; the flowers were blossoming profusely and the grass was richly green. In the second paragraph, the mood also seems relaxed as the behavior of the children and their talk of school th...

There are many times throughout the novel where Atticus alludes to the fact that he knows he won't win the trial for Tom Robinson. These allusions are mixed in with the hope that he will win, but because of the prejudiced feelings of the people of that time period, there is always that sense of reality that tells him that he's fighting a losing battle. Friends, such as Link Deas, even say he'll lose, but that doesn't... There are many times throughout the novel where Atticus alludes to the fact that he knows he won't win the trial for Tom Robinson. These allusions are mixed in with the hope that he will win, but because of the prejudiced feelings of the people of that time period, there is always that sense of reality that tells him that he's fighting a losing battle. Friends, such as Link Deas, even say he'll lose, but that doesn't stop Atticus from standing up for what is right and doing his best for his client. In chapter nine, Scout asks her father i...

When Friar Laurence says goodbye to Romeo just before Romeo leaves for his exile in Mantua, Friar Laurence says he believes the day will come when they can "reconcile [Romeo and Juliet's] friends," by which he means they can end the feud between the Montagues and the Capulets (3.3.161).  Perhaps this desire to end the ancient grudge that results in so much violence, compounded with the Friar's honest desire to see these young lovers safe... When Friar Laurence says goodbye to Romeo just before Romeo leaves for his exile in Mantua, Friar Laurence says he believes the day will come when they can "reconcile [Romeo and Juliet's] friends," by which he means they can end the feud between the Montagues and the Capulets (3.3.161).  Perhaps this desire to end the ancient grudge that results in so much violence, compounded with the Friar's honest desire to see these young lovers safe and happy, motivates Friar Laurence's decision to help Romeo and Juliet. ...

According to Rosh, Daniel has a soft spot which holds him back from being the fierce, loyal Zealot that he could potentially become. After Simon brings Daniel the news that his grandmother is dying, Daniel returns to the village to find out that his sister is possessed by demons once again. Unlike the other villagers, who fear Leah, Daniel is sympathetic towards his sister. He remembers all of the fun times they had when they... According to Rosh, Daniel has a soft spot which holds him back from being the fierce, loyal Zealot that he could potentially become. After Simon brings Daniel the news that his grandmother is dying, Daniel returns to the village to find out that his sister is possessed by demons once again. Unlike the other villagers, who fear Leah, Daniel is sympathetic towards his sister. He remembers all of the fun times they had when they were younger and recalls her radiant personality. Daniel realizes that he needs to sacrifice his life on the mountain to return to the vi...

Curley's wife is innocent because she is a victim and not a predator. She is lonely, she's more good looks than she is trouble, and she's harmless. First of all, Curley doesn't treat his wife with much trust or respect. They aren't really friends, either. He's always running around looking for her rather than tending to his duties. If he would treat her with more respect, and let her get out of the house once in... Curley's wife is innocent because she is a victim and not a predator. She is lonely, she's more good looks than she is trouble, and she's harmless. First of all, Curley doesn't treat his wife with much trust or respect. They aren't really friends, either. He's always running around looking for her rather than tending to his duties. If he would treat her with more respect, and let her get out of the house once in awhile to do things with other women friends, he wouldn't be as suspicious of her getting with Slim or any other ...

This play can teach its audience about the terrible lengths to which we will often go for love, for pride, or for power.  It isn't just about the teenagers who fall in love at first sight; although their story has value, too.  The play also focuses on the terrible, but human, behavior of the Capulets and Montagues in terms of their feud, a grudge that is so long-standing that no one even seems to discuss... This play can teach its audience about the terrible lengths to which we will often go for love, for pride, or for power.  It isn't just about the teenagers who fall in love at first sight; although their story has value, too.  The play also focuses on the terrible, but human, behavior of the Capulets and Montagues in terms of their feud, a grudge that is so long-standing that no one even seems to discuss the disagreement with which it began.  For family pride then, the feud continues, and it is responsible, ultimately, for Tybalt's death, as well as the deaths of Mercuti...

In the scenario that you have laid out here, Donald’s hotel business will benefit when the dollar depreciates.  You might even say he will make so much money your head will spin.  This is because European tourists will be better able to afford to come and stay in his hotels. When a European tourist comes to the United States, that tourist has to exchange euros (assuming they are from a country in the euro zone)... In the scenario that you have laid out here, Donald’s hotel business will benefit when the dollar depreciates.  You might even say he will make so much money your head will spin.  This is because European tourists will be better able to afford to come and stay in his hotels. When a European tourist comes to the United States, that tourist has to exchange euros (assuming they are from a country in the euro zone) for dollars.  They, in essence, have to buy the dollars that they will use to pay for things while they are in the US.  In the scenario from this question, the dollar ...

Waves can be characterized by highs and lows. The highest point in a wave is known as the crest, while the lowest point is known as the trough. There are few properties of a wave that are used to characterize it. These parameters include wavelength, frequency and amplitude.  The distance between any two successive crests is known as the wavelength. It is also equal to the distance between any two troughs. In fact, wavelength is... Waves can be characterized by highs and lows. The highest point in a wave is known as the crest, while the lowest point is known as the trough. There are few properties of a wave that are used to characterize it. These parameters include wavelength, frequency and amplitude.  The distance between any two successive crests is known as the wavelength. It is also equal to the distance between any two troughs. In fact, wavelength is equal to the distance between any two corresponding points (such as crests or troughs, etc.) on successive waves. The frequency is t...

In a sense, the theme of discovery is at the heart of Shakespeare's  The Tempest . On the one hand, you have the shipwrecked crew stranded by the storm at the beginning of the play. Much of the rest of the play is concerned with the stranded characters discovering the strange and exotic island, complete with magic, spirits, and strange creatures. Likewise, another major component of the play focuses on Miranda's discovery of human society.... In a sense, the theme of discovery is at the heart of Shakespeare's  The Tempest . On the one hand, you have the shipwrecked crew stranded by the storm at the beginning of the play. Much of the rest of the play is concerned with the stranded characters discovering the strange and exotic island, complete with magic, spirits, and strange creatures. Likewise, another major component of the play focuses on Miranda's discovery of human society. Stranded on the island with her father and few other companions, Miranda has little knowledge...

Newjack is the name given to new correctional officers (COs) assigned as guards to prison facilities: a rookie CO is a "newjack." Ted Conover, renowned journalist, contributing to publications like The New Yorker and The Atlantic Monthly , specializes in books based on immersion journalism (undercover reporting). Chapter 1 of Newjack , "Inside Passage," orients us to Conover's one-year-long experience as a prison guard by setting the scene. At 6:20 a.m., Conover approaches a work-day at Sing Sing prison situated along the Hudson River in upstate New York. In a digression to a brief history of the prison, he tells us the first cellblock was built of marble quarried nearby by prisoners who would be permanently transferred down from Auburn State Prison to Sing Sing after they completed constructing it. Conover's impression of Sing Sing is that, "Massive, tan, and almost windowless it looks like a hangar for a short, fat rocket." at first you can'...

Captain Keller's daughter, Helen, was deaf and blind.  He was depicted in the play as having given up hope of Helen ever learning how to communicate.  He had already contacted doctors in two states.  No one had been able to help Helen.  Captain Keller felt defeated, and he suggested that it was "time some attention was paid to Mildred."  Mildred was the youngest daughter of Captain and Mrs. Keller. At his wife's insistence, Captain Keller... Captain Keller's daughter, Helen, was deaf and blind.  He was depicted in the play as having given up hope of Helen ever learning how to communicate.  He had already contacted doctors in two states.  No one had been able to help Helen.  Captain Keller felt defeated, and he suggested that it was "time some attention was paid to Mildred."  Mildred was the youngest daughter of Captain and Mrs. Keller. At his wife's insistence, Captain Keller agreed to bring a special teacher to their home to help Helen.  That teache...

You can find the answer to this question in chapter one. This chapter introduces readers to Connor. When the chapter begins, Connor is out with his girlfriend, Ariana. She and Connor are talking about "kicking AWOL" together. Connor knows that this is a huge commitment on Ariana's part. Her parents are not having her unwound. She is only thinking about going AWOL because she wants to be with Connor. Connor then takes her home, and... You can find the answer to this question in chapter one. This chapter introduces readers to Connor. When the chapter begins, Connor is out with his girlfriend, Ariana. She and Connor are talking about "kicking AWOL" together. Connor knows that this is a huge commitment on Ariana's part. Her parents are not having her unwound. She is only thinking about going AWOL because she wants to be with Connor. Connor then takes her home, and he heads home himself. He greets his father, and then the novel goes into a brief flashback to expl...

In Paradise , Morrison explores the ways in which black people have internalized systematic preferences for lighter skin, and residents of Ruby engage in prejudices based on skin color even without crossing racial lines. Before Haven/Ruby is established as a town, its founders are barred from other communities because dark complected "negroes" are unwanted there. The people of Haven, noticing pervasive social prejudices against former slaves, poorer black people and darker complected black people, see... In Paradise , Morrison explores the ways in which black people have internalized systematic preferences for lighter skin, and residents of Ruby engage in prejudices based on skin color even without crossing racial lines. Before Haven/Ruby is established as a town, its founders are barred from other communities because dark complected "negroes" are unwanted there. The people of Haven, noticing pervasive social prejudices against former slaves, poorer black people and...

There is no way to answer this question in an objective way.  It is probably possible to objectively state the costs and benefits of globalization (though not everyone will agree on what those are).  However, it is not possible to objectively decide whether the benefits are greater than the costs. The benefits of globalization are generally spread around and hard to see.  Globalization helps us because it allows us to have high-quality goods for the... There is no way to answer this question in an objective way.  It is probably possible to objectively state the costs and benefits of globalization (though not everyone will agree on what those are).  However, it is not possible to objectively decide whether the benefits are greater than the costs. The benefits of globalization are generally spread around and hard to see.  Globalization helps us because it allows us to have high-quality goods for the lowest possible price.  If we did not have globalization, we would be paying higher price...

Ayman al-Zawahiri is currently the head of the Islamist international terrorist organization Al Qaeda, having taken power after Osama bin Laden was killed by US troops in 2011.Before that he was very important in Al Qaeda, and the source of much of its ideology and public image. One of his central influences was the Egyptian literary critic, political philosopher, and public intellectual Sayyid Qutb, who advanced a modernized fundamentalist interpretation of Islam that called... Ayman al-Zawahiri is currently the head of the Islamist international terrorist organization Al Qaeda, having taken power after Osama bin Laden was killed by US troops in 2011. Before that he was very important in Al Qaeda, and the source of much of its ideology and public image. One of his central influences was the Egyptian literary critic, political philosopher, and public intellectual Sayyid Qutb, who advanced a modernized fundamentalist interpretation of Islam that called for direct---and, if necessary, vi...

This 2014 article by Jordan Shapiro focuses on products made by Amplify Learning, a company specializing in digital products designed to integrate technology with educational goals. Shapiro admits some skepticism about this fad of “edutainment,” but the article largely praises game-based learning and Amplify’s products specifically. The CEO of Amplify, Joe Klein, comments that the value of these products lies in students using them in their free time when they would otherwise be playing non-educational... This 2014 article by Jordan Shapiro focuses on products made by Amplify Learning, a company specializing in digital products designed to integrate technology with educational goals. Shapiro admits some skepticism about this fad of “edutainment,” but the article largely praises game-based learning and Amplify’s products specifically. The CEO of Amplify, Joe Klein, comments that the value of these products lies in students using them in their free time when they would otherwise be playi...

I'll focus on the two most popular movie adaptations of Shakespeare's play, the 1968 Zeffirelli version and the 1996 Baz Luhrmann version with Leonardo DiCaprio as Romeo. The Zeffirelli film is probably the most faithful. It was filmed in Italy in a setting that has the look of Verona during the Renaissance. The actors look much as you might expect. Olivia Hussey looks almost young enough to play Juliet (she was sixteen during the filming), Leonard Whiting portrays an emotional and impetuous Romeo, and John McEnery is brilliant as Mercutio. The first Act is almost word for word up until the scene at Capulet's party, where Zeffirelli adds a "troubadour" who would have been a common attraction at such a gathering. He sings a song called "What Is a Youth," which is a delightful Renaissance-type ballad and employs lyrics which are very much in line with the plot and theme of the play. Likewise, Acts II and III are virtually word for word. The fight scene in ...

One of Romeo's main external conflicts is of course between his powerful family, the Montagues, and their chief rivals, the Capulets. While Romeo is in no way disloyal to his family, he is disenchanted by the constant battles that break out so predictably between the two families, battles that often end with grave injuries to both sides. Another external conflict is between Romeo's family and the Prince of Verona, who has commanded both families to desist from further skirmishes "upon pain of death." The bloodletting between the two families naturally disturbs the peace of the city, disrupting commerce and at times harming innocent citizens, while also blemishing the reputation of Verona. When his family is once again battling the Capulets, Romeo is well aware of the Prince's proscription against fighting, and fears both the wrath of the Prince and the safety of his family. Internally, Romeo battles to maintain his romantic, passionate character in the face of the...

When Macbeth returns home shortly before Duncan arrives, Lady Macbeth is ready to kill Duncan so Macbeth can ascend to the throne. Macbeth is less certain. Duncan is a good king; Macbeth is his loyal subject. Cold-blooded murder could condemn him to hell for all eternity. Lady Macbeth knows her husband well, though. First she attacks his manhood. When he says, “We will proceed no more in this,” she accuses him of being afraid. “Art thou... When Macbeth returns home shortly before Duncan arrives, Lady Macbeth is ready to kill Duncan so Macbeth can ascend to the throne. Macbeth is less certain. Duncan is a good king; Macbeth is his loyal subject. Cold-blooded murder could condemn him to hell for all eternity. Lady Macbeth knows her husband well, though. First she attacks his manhood. When he says, “We will proceed no more in this,” she accuses him of being afraid. “Art thou afeard To be the same in thine own act and valour As thou are in desire?...Wouldst thou…live a coward in thine own ...

Using the titular story, "The Fat Man in History," and "Chance" as illustrative references for how Carey portrays feminism in the short story collection Fat Man in History (1980), it emerges that a dominant theme of his portrayal is the perception of beauty. He shows that men are comfortable with women who have grace, beauty and fragility. Finch, in "The Fat Man in History," reminisces about two women formerly in his life as being diminutive... Using the titular story, "The Fat Man in History," and "Chance" as illustrative references for how Carey portrays feminism in the short story collection Fat Man in History (1980), it emerges that a dominant theme of his portrayal is the perception of beauty. He shows that men are comfortable with women who have grace, beauty and fragility. Finch, in "The Fat Man in History," reminisces about two women formerly in his life as being diminutive and fragile: "diminutive girls, Deidre...

Scout demonstrates that she is growing up because she is an active and willing participant in the tea party, just like Aunt Alexandra. Chapter 24 demonstrates that Scout is growing up because she wants to be an active participant in the Missionary Circle meeting.  She doesn’t complain about wearing a frilly dress, and she offers to carry the pitcher into the meeting.  This impresses her aunt, who wants her to learn how to take part in these functions. I tried pressing my behind against the door as Calpurnia had done, but the door didn’t budge. Grinning, she held it open for me. “Careful now, it’s heavy. Don’t look at it and you won’t spill it.” My journey was successful: Aunt Alexandra smiled brilliantly. “Stay with us, Jean Louise,” she said. This was a part of her campaign to teach me to be a lady. (Ch. 24) Scout’s reaction to the meeting shows that she is beginning to think about being a lady.  She looks at the ladies’ clothing, nail polish, and makeup, and thinks that they smell “h...

In the restaurant scene, Biff and Happy are supposed to be meeting Willy and Biff is supposed to report on his visit to Bill Oliver to ask for a loan. Happy gets to the restaurant first, and Biff arrives before Willy does. Before Willy gets there, Biff reveals to Hap that Oliver only saw him for a minute and that Biff ended up stealing Oliver's fountain pen. Fleeing from the office, Biff has a revelation. He finally realizes that he has been engaging, along with Hap and Willy, in rewriting his history. Although they have all pretended Biff was a salesman with Oliver, in fact he was only ever a shipping clerk, and he stole some balls from Oliver when he worked for him previously. Having finally faced the truth himself, Biff wants to get Happy, and more importantly, Willy, to face reality. Happy strenuously objects to Biff's idea, telling him he is crazy. Biff insists, "Hap, he's got to understand that I'm not the man somebody lends that kind of money to. He thinks ...

In his novella  Of Mice and Men , Steinbeck develops George's feeling for Lennie not through direct explanation but indirectly. What this means is that rather than having George or a narrator explain to readers specifically how George feels about Lennie, Steinbeck shows the reader George's actions and speech. As a result, the reader can determine how George feels about Lennie. This is evident in a number of different cases. I'll provide two examples below: In... In his novella  Of Mice and Men , Steinbeck develops George's feeling for Lennie not through direct explanation but indirectly. What this means is that rather than having George or a narrator explain to readers specifically how George feels about Lennie, Steinbeck shows the reader George's actions and speech. As a result, the reader can determine how George feels about Lennie. This is evident in a number of different cases. I'll provide two examples below: In the introduction of the novella, George's...

Elena is Puerto Rican and she lives in a tenement building for immigrants. Eugene is from Georgia, white, and lives in the two-story house next to Elena's building. It seems as if Eugene's family is well enough off financially; although, they must be going through a transition in life, or a career change, because they are a long way from Georgia. Plus, Eugene's mother is a nurse, his father also works, but his mother says that... Elena is Puerto Rican and she lives in a tenement building for immigrants. Eugene is from Georgia, white, and lives in the two-story house next to Elena's building. It seems as if Eugene's family is well enough off financially; although, they must be going through a transition in life, or a career change, because they are a long way from Georgia. Plus, Eugene's mother is a nurse, his father also works, but his mother says that their stay in the house next to El Building is only temporary. They don't want to live in their current sit...

George Washington was very involved in the Revolutionary War. He was the commander-in-chief of the colonial army. George Washington’s leadership was essential to the eventual colonial victory. George Washington made some brilliant moves. When the colonists had lost the first few battles of the Revolutionary War and were heading into the winter of 1776-1777 without a victory, he decided to attack the British at Trenton on Christmas night. He won that battle and another at... George Washington was very involved in the Revolutionary War. He was the commander-in-chief of the colonial army. George Washington’s leadership was essential to the eventual colonial victory. George Washington made some brilliant moves. When the colonists had lost the first few battles of the Revolutionary War and were heading into the winter of 1776-1777 without a victory, he decided to attack the British at Trenton on Christmas night. He won that battle and another at Princeton. This gave the colonists hope as th...

After reading Flowers for Algernon , I see the terrible  human impact of “personality engineering.” I see that Charlie suffered incredible emotional trauma after being manipulated by personality engineering. I see that he felt a lack of control over his own life due to the shifting effects of the experiment and came to rebel against the very scientists who thought they were his saviors. His escape from Dr. Strauss and Dr. Nemur illustrates this. I also infer that personality engineering is harmful not only to its subject, but to the subject’s family, friends, and loved ones. These people may be shocked and hurt by changes in the person they loved. Alice Kinnian’s character arc illustrates this. She originally supported Charlie’s operation but quickly became overwhelmed and confused by her friend’s new personality. Since Keyes so readily persuades me to sympathize with his main character, after only reading Flowers for Algernon , I might have a dim view of personality engineering. Howev...

Initially, Scout is like most small children; she believes her little world is safe and inclusive; however, once she is exposed to strangers and new situations, she begins to realize that the world can be a cruel and unreasonable place at times. Before Scout starts school, life is contoured by her imagination that categorizes people. The reclusive Arthur Radley is a "haint," a ghostly figure, who comes out at night. Mr. Avery is a comical... Initially, Scout is like most small children; she believes her little world is safe and inclusive; however, once she is exposed to strangers and new situations, she begins to realize that the world can be a cruel and unreasonable place at times. Before Scout starts school, life is contoured by her imagination that categorizes people. The reclusive Arthur Radley is a "haint," a ghostly figure, who comes out at night. Mr. Avery is a comical and cranky character who misbehaves and blames the snowfall on bad children. Miss Maudie is...

Jonathan Iwegbu is the protagonist in Chinua Achebe’s short story “Civil Peace.” This story was written shortly after a three-year-long civil war in which Nigeria’s Ibo people attempted and ultimately failed to separate themselves from Nigeria to establish their own nation. With this kind of background, it might be easy to write a protagonist who is angry, bitter, or vengeful. But in Iwegbu, we get a character who is the opposite of those things. Instead, he is an optimistic, grateful, industrious, resilient man of faith who understands what truly has value and in whose hands his life lies. Achebe (1971) introduces readers to Iwegbu in the first sentence: “Jonathan Iwegbu counted himself extraordinarily lucky.” He also tells us that “happy survival” is part of Iwegbu’s character and that "[h]e had come out of the war with five inestimable blessings—his head, his wife Maria’s head, and the heads of three out of their four children." We know immediately that Iwegbu has lost one...

For your two quotes on parental love, you might consider these: At the beginning of the play, just after the street fight breaks out between the Montagues and Capulets, Lady Montague asks, "O, where is Romeo?  Saw you him today? / Right glad I am he was not at this fray" (1.1.118-119).  His mother's concern for him is certainly very loving.  She is glad that her son was not at this fight because she wouldn't... For your two quotes on parental love, you might consider these: At the beginning of the play, just after the street fight breaks out between the Montagues and Capulets, Lady Montague asks, "O, where is Romeo?  Saw you him today? / Right glad I am he was not at this fray" (1.1.118-119).  His mother's concern for him is certainly very loving.  She is glad that her son was not at this fight because she wouldn't want him to get hurt, and she doesn't want him to get in trouble with the prince either.  Further, Romeo's father is quite worrie...

Both Connie in Joyce Carol Oates's short story "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" and Mariana in Dagoberto Gilb's short story "Love in L.A." are the powerless objects of seduction for ne'er-do-well men. In "Love in L.A.," Jake, who is without a job and is obsessed with living the good life in a way that resembles a "tequila ad," hits Mariana's car on the freeway. He proceeds to tell her a series of lies, which she reacts to with some suspicion. She also turns down his offer of breakfast, which would likely lead to more seduction from Jake. In the end, however, Mariana gives Jake her number and asks him to call her, showing that she has fallen for his deception. Jake is a superficial, self-centered guy who lies to get what he wants, but Mariana is still eager to have him call her. Like Mariana, Connie is unfortunately deceived by a man, but he is far worse than Jake. When she is out with a boy, she sees another man who she...

In The Giver , the members of the community have ceded all control to the elders, who are the rulers of the community.  This is apparently a choice that their ancestors made a very long time ago, according to the Giver, who says,  Our people made that choice, the choice to go to Sameness. Before my time, before the previous time, back and back and back.... We gained control of many things. But we had... In The Giver , the members of the community have ceded all control to the elders, who are the rulers of the community.  This is apparently a choice that their ancestors made a very long time ago, according to the Giver, who says,  Our people made that choice, the choice to go to Sameness. Before my time, before the previous time, back and back and back.... We gained control of many things. But we had to let go of others (Lowry 95).  The Giver is speaking of Sameness, of course, and Sameness is the consequence of the elders having removed choices from the people.  As I imagine this, some...