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In "A Rose for Emily" by William Faulkner, what is the smell that Miss Emily's neighbors complain about in section II?

William Faulkner's writing often features the Southern Gothic literary tradition. Derived from the Gothic tradition, which became popular in late eighteenth-century Europe, Southern Gothic fosters a grotesque, suspenseful, and mysterious atmosphere for readers. The smell in "A Rose for Emily" works throughout the story to create a Southern Gothic tone, particularly in Section II. While this section does not disclose the source of the smell, it does build suspense and encourage readers to engage critically with the story.  Section II acts as a flashback in which the reader learns about the curious, offensive smell. The opening line sets the mysterious tone for this section, as the narrator explains that Miss Emily vanquished the men who called on her in Section I "just as she had vanquished their fathers thirty years before about the smell" (n.p.). This line creates a sense of mystery not only about the smell, but about Miss Emily's character as well; it esta

Does the novel To Kill a Mockingbird make a final statement regarding how race should affect our treatment of others?

Yes. Harper Lee's resounding message concerning the treatment of others is that every individual deserves respect, justice, and equality regardless of race, class, or religion. Atticus is one of the main characters throughout the novel who displays tolerance towards everyone. He is a morally upright individual who courageously defends Tom Robinson in front of a prejudiced jury and town. He is also the perfect role model to his children and shares with them numerous lessons... Yes. Harper Lee's resounding message concerning the treatment of others is that every individual deserves respect, justice, and equality regardless of race, class, or religion. Atticus is one of the main characters throughout the novel who displays tolerance towards everyone. He is a morally upright individual who courageously defends Tom Robinson in front of a prejudiced jury and town. He is also the perfect role model to his children and shares with them numerous lessons concerning the proper treatment

What brings on the dramatic conflict of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet?

The dramatic conflict of Romeo and Juliet really has its roots before the play even starts, with the feud of the Montagues and Capulets.  We are told this in the prologue.  The two families are feuding because of some long-forgotten reason and now any time anyone associated with one gets in contact with someone from the other it causes bloodshed. Things come to a head, however, when Romeo Montague’s friends convince him to sneak into... The dramatic conflict of Romeo and Juliet really has its roots before the play even starts, with the feud of the Montagues and Capulets.  We are told this in the prologue.  The two families are feuding because of some long-forgotten reason and now any time anyone associated with one gets in contact with someone from the other it causes bloodshed. Things come to a head, however, when Romeo Montague’s friends convince him to sneak into the Capulet’s party.  They should not really be there.  Once there, Romeo falls head-over-heels in love with Juliet Cap

Identify two industrial uses of distillation.

Distillation is the process of separating out chemicals from a mixture by using their different boiling points, specific gravities, and other properties. Industrial usages would normally be centered around taking an impure/mixed sample from a natural source and sorting it into its components to have pure materials.  One example would be taking mixtures of gasses and separating out individual elements to use for chemical and industrial uses. By distilling regular air, companies can gather pure... Distillation is the process of separating out chemicals from a mixture by using their different boiling points, specific gravities, and other properties. Industrial usages would normally be centered around taking an impure/mixed sample from a natural source and sorting it into its components to have pure materials.  One example would be taking mixtures of gasses and separating out individual elements to use for chemical and industrial uses. By distilling regular air, companies can gather pure f

In the novel The Kite Runner, does Khaled Hosseini support New Orientalism?

Essentially, New Orientalism is the prejudiced belief that Western culture and ideals are superior to those of the Islamic Middle East. Ideologies associated with New Orientalism include the beliefs that the Islamic Middle East is dangerous, undemocratic, politically underdeveloped, violent, and unjust. In his novel The Kite Runner , Khaled Hosseini favorably portrays America and Western civilization while he criticizes Middle Eastern culture and beliefs. One could argue that Hosseini supports and shares New Orientalist... Essentially, New Orientalism is the prejudiced belief that Western culture and ideals are superior to those of the Islamic Middle East. Ideologies associated with New Orientalism include the beliefs that the Islamic Middle East is dangerous, undemocratic, politically underdeveloped, violent, and unjust. In his novel The Kite Runner , Khaled Hosseini favorably portrays America and Western civilization while he criticizes Middle Eastern culture and beliefs. One could a

Why do you think Shakespeare has Macbeth stand alone on stage when he speaks about what he can see?

Of the three scenes in which Macbeth sees apparitions or hallucinations, he's actually only alone on stage in one of them. When he's visited by the bloodied corpse of Banquo at the banquet, he is accompanied by his wife and several lords. In Act IV, the witches share the stage with him as he receives the series of visions and prophecies which guide his actions through the remainder of the play. So I assume you're... Of the three scenes in which Macbeth sees apparitions or hallucinations, he's actually only alone on stage in one of them. When he's visited by the bloodied corpse of Banquo at the banquet, he is accompanied by his wife and several lords. In Act IV, the witches share the stage with him as he receives the series of visions and prophecies which guide his actions through the remainder of the play. So I assume you're referring to his hallucination of the "air-drawn dagger" shortly before the murder of Duncan. Perhaps the most straightforward re

In considering the first half of the twentieth century with an emphasis placed on the changing realities of nationalism, how was the world a...

By the end of World War II in 1945, nationalism in Europe had earned a bad name for itself, as Fascists such as Hitler and Mussolini had used nationalism to rally their countries to go to war and engage in atrocities. The United Nations, founded in 1945, is an international peacekeeping agency that was created to try to prevent future wars through cooperation. In the western zones of Germany and in Japan, the Allies rebuilt those nations' infrastructure and economies, fostering a spirit of international cooperation rather than fervid nationalism. In this way, the world in 1945 was different than the world of 1919, in which nations that had been punished for World War I, such as Germany, developed a defensive sense of nationalism, and other nations wanted to punish Germany for the war. In addition, the League of Nations, the pre-cursor to the United Nations, largely failed, as the United States refused to become a signatory.  However, it is false to think that World War II did not i

What does the mouse in the first section of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men tell you about Lennie?

Lennie is described as an animal. His arms hang at his sides "the way a bear drags his paws." When he gets to the pool, he drinks like a horse. Lennie is large and simple-minded. He is like an animal. It is fitting that the is so affectionate with smaller animals. Lennie is strikingly strong but he wants nothing more than to live on a farm and care for small, cute animals.  Lennie claims to... Lennie is described as an animal. His arms hang at his sides "the way a bear drags his paws." When he gets to the pool, he drinks like a horse. Lennie is large and simple-minded. He is like an animal. It is fitting that the is so affectionate with smaller animals. Lennie is strikingly strong but he wants nothing more than to live on a farm and care for small, cute animals.  Lennie claims to have found the dead mouse and instead of throwing it out, he wants to keep it in his pocket so that he can keep petting it. George tells Lennie to give up the mouse because it isn't san

How did the Italian Renaissance end?

The Renaissance (the word means “rebirth”) is generally understood to have started during the 14th century and lasted until the mid-16th century.  This marked the transition between the Medieval or Dark Ages to Early Modern Europe.  It was exemplified by a renewed interest in the arts, science, and philosophy.  During the flowering of the Italian Renaissance, however, there were a number of catastrophes that contributed to its demise. A change in climate resulted in harsh winters and the decline of agriculture; this led to repeated famines and shortages. On the heels of a previous swell in the population, these shortages exacerbated the food problem. Trade throughout northwest Europe was disrupted by the Hundred Years’ War between England and France, and the expansion of the Ottoman Empire.  When King Edward III of England refused to pay his debts, this had a ripple effect that caused the two largest Florentine banks (Bardi and Peruzzi) to collapse.   The Black Death was wiping out inh

In The Great Gatsby, what does Nick observe "has its limits"?

In chapter one, Nick begins the story by describing how fortunate he feels to have had a superior upbringing. He credits his father's advice and prides himself on his broad-mindedness and nonjudgmental nature and observes that these qualities have led many men to confide in him.  To finish your quotation, it is Nick's tolerance that "has its limits."  Nick will tell the story of his summer in New York and his friendship with Gatsby retrospectively,... In chapter one, Nick begins the story by describing how fortunate he feels to have had a superior upbringing. He credits his father's advice and prides himself on his broad-mindedness and nonjudgmental nature and observes that these qualities have led many men to confide in him.  To finish your quotation, it is Nick's tolerance that "has its limits."  Nick will tell the story of his summer in New York and his friendship with Gatsby retrospectively, and he implies that whatever he has learned about human

Explain the shift from artisan to factory worker, and discuss the factory system. What were the advantages and disadvantages? Who was left out? Who...

An artisan makes goods by hand from raw materials, and every item created is unique and special. They perform a variety of tasks in that construction, and may spend days making a single item. A factory worker uses machines to make one part of a good, interchangeable with other parts of the same type, which is then passed down an assembly line to other workers with other machines. They perform the same simple task over and over again, hundreds of times a day. As a result of this, there are two major differences between artisans and factory workers, one positive, one negative. The positive is that factory workers are vastly more productive---in many cases hundreds or even thousands of times more productive. The negative is that factory workers have far less autonomy over what they produce, what hours they work, and what type of work they do. Much of the political debate over the upsides and downsides of capitalism ultimately boils down to those two facts. Adam Smith's defense of capi

How does "I came, I saw, I conquered," from The Story of My Life, prove true in Helen Keller's case?

In chapter one of  The Story of My Life  Helen Keller talks about her life before she was left blind and deaf after a terrible illness as a baby. When she says "I came, I saw, I conquered" she is speaking about how she impressed her parents and captured their hearts "as the first baby in the family always does." Every parent is overawed by his or her children as babies, especially as they reach milestones sometimes sooner than expected, and Helen's parents are no exception. After her illness things change and life for Helen becomes very difficult. However, her parents support her and do whatever they can for her. This book and the very successful and fulfilling life that Helen goes on to have are testament to her perseverance, patience and level of intelligence. Helen could not have known how prophetic those words would be.  Once Anne Sullivan comes into Helen's life, in chapter two, Helen finds escape from her "silent, aimless dayless life." In ch

What was the U.S. foreign policy before the bombing of Pearl Harbor?

The foreign policy of the United States was evolving when Pearl Harbor was attacked in December 1941. For most of the 1930s, the United States followed a policy of neutrality. Our neutrality laws prohibited us from selling war materials to countries that were at war. This included countries fighting in a civil war. The Neutrality Act of 1937 said we could sell nonmilitary materials to a country at war only on a cash and carry... The foreign policy of the United States was evolving when Pearl Harbor was attacked in December 1941. For most of the 1930s, the United States followed a policy of neutrality. Our neutrality laws prohibited us from selling war materials to countries that were at war. This included countries fighting in a civil war. The Neutrality Act of 1937 said we could sell nonmilitary materials to a country at war only on a cash and carry basis. They would have to pay cash for the materials and transport the products on their ships. Americans were weary of war. The Nye Comm

Why did Tybalt attack and kill Mercutio instead of Romeo, who he had originally been targeting?

Though Tybalt's quarrel is with Romeo, he begins the momentous duel in Act 3 by fighting with and killing Mercutio instead. Tybalt ultimately attacks Mercutio because the garrulous and hot-headed character insults Tybalt and goads him into a duel to protect Romeo's honor. From the beginning of the encounter in Act 3, Scene 1, it's clear that Mercutio is itching for a fight. For instance, when Tybalt signals that he wants to talk to Mercutio... Though Tybalt's quarrel is with Romeo, he begins the momentous duel in Act 3 by fighting with and killing Mercutio instead. Tybalt ultimately attacks Mercutio because the garrulous and hot-headed character insults Tybalt and goads him into a duel to protect Romeo's honor. From the beginning of the encounter in Act 3, Scene 1, it's clear that Mercutio is itching for a fight. For instance, when Tybalt signals that he wants to talk to Mercutio and Benvolio, Mercutio responds "And but one word with one of us?/ Couple it w

What is the outline of the Hero's Journey for The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain?

The hero’s journey is a story pattern described by Joseph Campbell in his 1949 book The Hero with a Thousand Faces . Also called a “monomyth,” it’s one big story pattern that gets used over and over. Many novels and myths follow this pattern, some tightly and some loosely. There are 17 official parts to the hero’s journey, but hardly any stories actually include all 17. More generally, the hero's journey always involves someone going out into an unknown world, fighting against forces encountered there, then coming back home with some kind of blessing and/or significant personal change. The 17 steps of the journey can also be grouped more loosely into three sections: 1. Departure (all the stuff before the quest really begins) 2. Initiation (all the adventurous stuff) and 3. Return (going back home with new knowledge and/or power). It may be best to organize your understanding of The Prince and the Pauper along these lines, since we won't find parallels to all 17 steps of a hero

How did the Civil War permanently alter the national definition of freedom, and link freedom to the survival of the nation?

The Civil War was, without a doubt, the most transformational event in the history of the United States. Over the four years of fighting, 600,000 people lost their lives. Slavery, the economic backbone of half the country, was abolished. The definition of freedom changed radically during this time period, and the aftermath of the war tied the concept of freedom to the survival of the nation. The Civil War made freedom a universal concept in... The Civil War was, without a doubt, the most transformational event in the history of the United States. Over the four years of fighting, 600,000 people lost their lives. Slavery, the economic backbone of half the country, was abolished. The definition of freedom changed radically during this time period, and the aftermath of the war tied the concept of freedom to the survival of the nation. The Civil War made freedom a universal concept in the United States. No longer was freedom (or lack thereof) defined by skin color. The 13th amendment, which

What would be some interpretive observations from Shakespeare's Macbeth?

When one reads Macbeth , one can notice many themes and motifs that are worth being examined thoroughly. I would like to focus on the role of ambition in the play and its impact on Macbeth because it is certainly one of the most important issues that needs to be discussed. Macbeth's unchecked ambition leads to his imminent downfall because he completely succumbs to it and forfeits his right to be viewed as an individual... When one reads Macbeth , one can notice many themes and motifs that are worth being examined thoroughly. I would like to focus on the role of ambition in the play and its impact on Macbeth because it is certainly one of the most important issues that needs to be discussed. Macbeth's unchecked ambition leads to his imminent downfall because he completely succumbs to it and forfeits his right to be viewed as an individual who deserves redemption. His determination to put aside his sense of right and wrong for the sake of fulfilling his ambition to unlawfully be

Where and how can I find proper resources to back up my thesis that in the play "In the Blood" by Suzan-Lori Parks the issue of colorism...

First, I would suggest that you might think about methodology. To do scholarship, one starts with a question, does research, and then decides on a stance. In other words, first you should become familiar with the material by reading about and then deciding on the central claim you are making. "Resources" are not intended to support a decision that is unalterable but to help you decide if an initial hypothesis is correct. Part of doing... First, I would suggest that you might think about methodology. To do scholarship, one starts with a question, does research, and then decides on a stance. In other words, first you should become familiar with the material by reading about and then deciding on the central claim you are making. "Resources" are not intended to support a decision that is unalterable but to help you decide if an initial hypothesis is correct. Part of doing good scholarship is keeping an open mind until after you have done your research and carefully exam

What is the most important part in Chapter 5 of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry?

The most important event from this chapter is Cassie’s altercation with Lillian Jean, the white girl who behaves in a racist manner toward her.   Even as an African-American child, Cassie doesn’t have many experiences with the harsh realities of racism.  The incidents with the hand-me-down schoolbooks and the white bus’s harassment of them are minor compared to what she goes through with Lillian Jean.  Big Ma had always refused to let Cassie and the other younger children accompany her on shopping trips, so when she allowed Cassie to come it was a big deal.  T.J.s father had asked Big Ma to bring him into town with her, so she brought Cassie and Stacey along so T.J. would talk to them instead of her.  Racism rears its ugly head during the entire trip.  Cassie is completely confused when her grandmother chooses her spot for selling her eggs and milk.  It is very far from the entrance and nowhere near where the other wagons are setting up.  Her grandmother tells her that the other wagons

What was Portia's role in the trial scene in The Merchant of Venice?

Portia was there to defend Antonio against Shylock's claim to a pound of his flesh for forfeiting on a bond which he had signed as a guarantee for the repayment of a loan in the amount of three thousand ducats. Bassanio, Antonio's closest friend and confidant, had approached the successful merchant for a loan so that he would have enough money to woo the wealthy and beautiful heiress, Portia, who lived in Belmont. Portia's father's will stated that she could only marry a suitor who successfully chose the correct casket from three—gold, silver and lead. Since she was beautiful and the heiress to an immense fortune, Portia had many suitors, themselves men of status and money who came to Belmont to chance their luck. Bassanio wanted to have an equal chance and therefore needed the money, as he tells Antonio in Act 1, scene 2: In Belmont is a lady richly left; And she is fair, and, fairer than that word,... And many Jasons come in quest of her. O my Antonio, had I but the m

Why are liquids more compressible than solids?

Matter can have a few different forms: solid, liquid, gas or plasma. Solids are characterized by strong intermolecular forces and low spacing between the molecules. Thus, they are able to maintain their shape. In comparison, liquids have weaker intermolecular forces and more spacing between the molecules. This provides fluidity to the liquids and they are able to take the shape of the container they are held in.   The weaker intermolecular forces and higher intermolecular... Matter can have a few different forms: solid, liquid, gas or plasma. Solids are characterized by strong intermolecular forces and low spacing between the molecules. Thus, they are able to maintain their shape. In comparison, liquids have weaker intermolecular forces and more spacing between the molecules. This provides fluidity to the liquids and they are able to take the shape of the container they are held in.   The weaker intermolecular forces and higher intermolecular spacing is the reason liquids can be compre

What are some literary devices in Macbeth, Act V, Scene 1?

Act V, Scene i of Macbeth certainly continues the imagery that is prevalent in the play with its phantasmagoric realm, as in this scene a succession of things are seen or imagined by Lady Macbeth. Imagery - The representation of sensory experience Lady Macbeth imagines that she sees bloody spots (visual imagery) on the stairs; she also smells blood (olfactory imagery): Here's the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of Arabia will not... Act V, Scene i of Macbeth certainly continues the imagery that is prevalent in the play with its phantasmagoric realm, as in this scene a succession of things are seen or imagined by Lady Macbeth. Imagery - The representation of sensory experience Lady Macbeth imagines that she sees bloody spots (visual imagery) on the stairs; she also smells blood (olfactory imagery): Here's the smell of the blood still. All the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand. Oh! oh, oh! (5.1.53-55) Hyperbole - Obvious exaggeration  There is also h

In "After Twenty Years," what does "Silky" Bob's long explanation of the reason he is waiting in the doorway most clearly reveal?

The fact that Silky Bob finds it necessary to explain to the policeman walking the beat why he is waiting in the doorway shows that Bob is nervous around policemen —and as we find out later, with good reason. He is a wanted man, so just seeing a policeman is likely to cause him some anxiety. Bob is leaning in the doorway of a store, in the shadows, with no light falling on him. No... The fact that Silky Bob finds it necessary to explain to the policeman walking the beat why he is waiting in the doorway shows that Bob is nervous around policemen —and as we find out later, with good reason. He is a wanted man, so just seeing a policeman is likely to cause him some anxiety. Bob is leaning in the doorway of a store, in the shadows, with no light falling on him. No doubt he has specifically chosen such an inconspicuous place to stand just so that he can avoid contact with anyone who might recognize his description from the "wanted" bulletins. When the policeman slows and then walk

How does Ambrose Bierce's "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" relate to its time?

This story was first published in 1890, some 25 years after the end of the American Civil War.  Though the story takes place during the time of the war, and though it presents a Southern plantation owner and secessionist who is wholly devoted to the Southern cause, it does not paint him as pure villain.  In fact, Bierce gives the reader one major way in which to relate to Peyton Farquhar: all he wants is... This story was first published in 1890, some 25 years after the end of the American Civil War.  Though the story takes place during the time of the war, and though it presents a Southern plantation owner and secessionist who is wholly devoted to the Southern cause, it does not paint him as pure villain.  In fact, Bierce gives the reader one major way in which to relate to Peyton Farquhar: all he wants is to escape his death sentence and return home to be with his wife and children.  He wants this so much that he actually imagines, in the time it takes him to drop from the bridge int

Give the pH of a nitric acid (HNO3) solution with a [H3O+] of 2.1 x 10-4 M? a. 3.67 b. 10.00 c. 10.33 d. 0.00021

pH is a measure of the concentration of [`~H_3O^+` ] ions. Substances that have a high concentration of [`~H_3O^+` ] ions have a pH that is less than 7 and are classified as acids. Strong acids have lower pH numbers than weak acids. Substances that have a low concentration of [`~H_3O^+` ] ions have a pH that is greater than 7 and are classified as bases. Strong bases have higher pH numbers than weak bases.  Substances that have equal concentrations of [`~H_3O^+` ] ions and [`~OH^-` ] have a pH of 7 and are classified as neutral. pH is determined using the following formula :    pH = -log[`~H_3O^+` ] Therefore, the pH of a nitric acid solution with a concentration `2.1 x ~10^-^4` ` ` M [`~H_3O^+` ] ions is:   pH = -log[`~H_3O^+` ] = -log(`2.1 x ~10^-^4` ) = 3.67 The answer is a.

What is the main point and what is surprising about the following article? Why? Braveman, P (2006). Health Disparities and Health Equity:...

In the first part of his article, Braveman (2006) discusses the terms “health inequalities,’ “health disparities,” and “health equity,” looking at Margaret Whitehead’s definitions of each as were applied in the 1990’s, the first time a “concise and accessible definition of health disparities/inequalities/equity was articulated” (p. 2). He provides tables that break down definitions and parameters of health inequalities/disparities/equity formulated by others and examines the methodologies used to determine these parameters (pp. 5, 7-11). Many... In the first part of his article, Braveman (2006) discusses the terms “health inequalities,’ “health disparities,” and “health equity,” looking at Margaret Whitehead’s definitions of each as were applied in the 1990’s, the first time a “concise and accessible definition of health disparities/inequalities/equity was articulated” (p. 2). He provides tables that break down definitions and parameters of health inequalities/disparities/equity formul

How did Niccolo Machiavelli connect the anarchy in international politics with his book The Prince?

Machiavelli approached his political treatise The Prince as a primer for rulers of various types of political entities extant in Italy during his time, the early 16th-century. He uses the term "states" to describe these political entities, which ranged from hereditary kingdoms to Republics and city-states found among the political amalgam of Italy at that time (which wouldn't become a unified nation until the late 19th century). Machiavelli's overarching theme in The Prince is the notion that rulers,... Machiavelli approached his political treatise The Prince as a primer for rulers of various types of political entities extant in Italy during his time, the early 16th-century. He uses the term "states" to describe these political entities, which ranged from hereditary kingdoms to Republics and city-states found among the political amalgam of Italy at that time (which wouldn't become a unified nation until the late 19th century). Machiavelli's overarch

What is the conflict that appears in Arthur Miller's The Crucible, how is it resolved, and can you characterize this play as modern tragedy?

The play's main external conflict exists between John Proctor and society. John takes issue with his community's handling of the witchcraft accusations, attempts to address them and repair the damage done, is eventually accused of witchcraft (by Mary Warren), and dies as a result of a corrupt system. The play's main internal conflict is arguably even more interesting and occurs entirely within John. His guilt over his past affair with Abigail has eaten away at his... The play's main external conflict exists between John Proctor and society. John takes issue with his community's handling of the witchcraft accusations, attempts to address them and repair the damage done, is eventually accused of witchcraft (by Mary Warren), and dies as a result of a corrupt system. The play's main internal conflict is arguably even more interesting and occurs entirely within John. His guilt over his past affair with Abigail has eaten away at his sense of self, and John no longer c

Who is Set?

Set, or Seth, is an Egyptian god.  He is the god of storms, deserts, chaos, and war.  According to Egyptian mythology, Set killed and mutilated his own brother, Osiris.  Despite that horrible deed, Set is not always an evil god.  Often he is portrayed as the protector of Ra.  In all cases, Set has a human body and some kind of animal head, but the type of animal head has changed throughout the mythology.   ... Set, or Seth, is an Egyptian god.  He is the god of storms, deserts, chaos, and war.  According to Egyptian mythology, Set killed and mutilated his own brother, Osiris.  Despite that horrible deed, Set is not always an evil god.  Often he is portrayed as the protector of Ra.  In all cases, Set has a human body and some kind of animal head, but the type of animal head has changed throughout the mythology.   In the book  The Egypt Game , the children use Set as an evil god.    “Ummm,” April said. “Or else we could be evil high priestesses who are going to offer him as a human sacr

Why are chemosynthetic iron and sulfur bacteria thought by some scientists to be the first organisms on earth?

There are several reasons for this, but they mostly have to do with the way these organisms metabolize, and the ecological composition of the early Earth. Today, the great majority of organisms use aerobic respiration reactions to generate ATP, and those reactions require fuel, typically glucose or some related carbohydrate. In turn, those carbohydrates tend to be synthesized by organisms that can perform photosynthesis. Both of these reactions are fairly complex and have some irreducible... There are several reasons for this, but they mostly have to do with the way these organisms metabolize, and the ecological composition of the early Earth. Today, the great majority of organisms use aerobic respiration reactions to generate ATP, and those reactions require fuel, typically glucose or some related carbohydrate. In turn, those carbohydrates tend to be synthesized by organisms that can perform photosynthesis. Both of these reactions are fairly complex and have some irreducible aspects w

How do The Pardoner’s Tale, The Clerk’s Tale, and The Miller’s Tale compare in The Canterbury Tales?

The tales the pilgrims tell in The Canterbury Tales  reflect their personalities. What ties these tales together--how they compare--is that each involves trickery and a trickster.  The Clerk is a seemingly otherworldly young man and his story of the ever patient and long suffering Griselda seems to suggest that women be submissive in the extreme. The Clerk shows Griselda giving up her children to her sadistic trickster husband who says they must be killed. Her... The tales the pilgrims tell in The Canterbury Tales  reflect their personalities. What ties these tales together--how they compare--is that each involves trickery and a trickster.  The Clerk is a seemingly otherworldly young man and his story of the ever patient and long suffering Griselda seems to suggest that women be submissive in the extreme. The Clerk shows Griselda giving up her children to her sadistic trickster husband who says they must be killed. Her husband then forces Griselda to arrange his remarriage when he tric

In Tolkien's The Hobbit, what army makes the first attack in the Battle of the Five Armies in Chapter 17?

The goblins and wolves make the first proper attack in the Battle of the Five Armies in J.R.R. Tolkien's  The Hobbit . It's worth noting that, in determining who the actual five armies are in this battle, there's some controversy. Some include the eagles in this list, while others identify different goblin/orc factions. For our purposes, it makes the most sense to say that the five armies engaged in the conflict are: men (humans), elves,... The goblins and wolves make the first proper attack in the Battle of the Five Armies in J.R.R. Tolkien's  The Hobbit . It's worth noting that, in determining who the actual five armies are in this battle, there's some controversy. Some include the eagles in this list, while others identify different goblin/orc factions. For our purposes, it makes the most sense to say that the five armies engaged in the conflict are: men (humans), elves, dwarves, goblins, and wolves (also called Wargs in Tolkien's universe). Before the ba

In To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, can Tom Robinson be Calpurnia's long forgotten brother since the reader never learns her last name?

It is unlikely that Tom Robinson is related to Calpurnia.  First, it seems likely that a blood relationship between Tom and Calpurnia would come up in the course of the novel. Calpurnia is involved in Tom's case through Atticus and through her own involvement in Maycomb's black community—if the two were related, it would be unusual not to encounter mention of it somewhere in the story. Also, Calpurnia is considerably older than Tom, possibly old... It is unlikely that Tom Robinson is related to Calpurnia.  First, it seems likely that a blood relationship between Tom and Calpurnia would come up in the course of the novel. Calpurnia is involved in Tom's case through Atticus and through her own involvement in Maycomb's black community—if the two were related, it would be unusual not to encounter mention of it somewhere in the story. Also, Calpurnia is considerably older than Tom, possibly old enough to be Tom's mother. After all, Tom's children are younger than Zee

How is the movement of matter through the biosphere different from the flow of energy?

The answer to this question is that matter is recycled in the biosphere, but energy is not. Energy must be continually added to the biosphere in the form of sunlight. The definition of "biosphere" is the sum total of all living things and their environments on our planet. With the exception of chemotrophs (organisms that can obtain usable energy from geothermal activity) all living things ultimately rely on producers/autotrophs that capture the energy of the... The answer to this question is that matter is recycled in the biosphere, but energy is not. Energy must be continually added to the biosphere in the form of sunlight. The definition of "biosphere" is the sum total of all living things and their environments on our planet. With the exception of chemotrophs (organisms that can obtain usable energy from geothermal activity) all living things ultimately rely on producers/autotrophs that capture the energy of the sun. These producers transform light energy through

Whose family won possession of the disputed land in the lawsuit of the story "The Interlopers"?

The von Gradwitz family won the ownership of the contested land in the narrative of "The Interlopers." However, the judgment of the court that  ...wrested it from the illegal possession of a neighboring family of petty landowners was never accepted by the neighboring family, the Znaeyms. Described as "petty landowners," the others have continued to commit numerous offenses of hunting illegally on this property awarded to the von Gradwitz family. Furthermore, the feud among neighbors... The von Gradwitz family won the ownership of the contested land in the narrative of "The Interlopers." However, the judgment of the court that  ...wrested it from the illegal possession of a neighboring family of petty landowners was never accepted by the neighboring family, the Znaeyms. Described as "petty landowners," the others have continued to commit numerous offenses of hunting illegally on this property awarded to the von Gradwitz family. Furthermore, the fe

What are the effects of an unstable government?

An unstable government can be problematic. When a government is perceived as unstable, other countries are less likely to be able to predict what may happen to that country in the future. This could have serious economic ramifications. If a country is perceived as unstable, there may be less investment in that country. Those who do invest will want a higher rate of return. This will increase economic costs for the unstable country. An unstable... An unstable government can be problematic. When a government is perceived as unstable, other countries are less likely to be able to predict what may happen to that country in the future. This could have serious economic ramifications. If a country is perceived as unstable, there may be less investment in that country. Those who do invest will want a higher rate of return. This will increase economic costs for the unstable country. An unstable country is very risky to support politically and militarily. If there is a good chance that the gover

How does Laertes behave when he returns to Elsinore after his father's death in Shakespeare's Hamlet?

From the moment Laertes returns to Elsinore in Act IV, Scene 4, he is a man of action. When we last saw him, he was preparing to leave for school. Then, he was a practical and politically astute man. He warned Ophelia to “fear” the fact that, as a prince, Hamlet’s wife would be the result of political expediency, not love (I.3.16-33). He patiently endured a rambling (second) farewell from his father, then took his... From the moment Laertes returns to Elsinore in Act IV, Scene 4, he is a man of action. When we last saw him, he was preparing to leave for school. Then, he was a practical and politically astute man. He warned Ophelia to “fear” the fact that, as a prince, Hamlet’s wife would be the result of political expediency, not love (I.3.16-33). He patiently endured a rambling (second) farewell from his father, then took his leave with dignity and grace. Compare that figure, then, to the man who storms into Elsinore in Act IV. Laertes is now leading a rebellion upon the castle: [Y]ou

What are the methods by which characters in John Osborne's Look Back in Anger "break the fourth wall," and what is the effect of doing so?

In theater, the concept of a "fourth wall" is integral to most playwrights' concepts of story and production. Simply, it refers to an imaginary wall separating the audience from the stage and is intended to emphasize, for the actors, the need to separate themselves from the world beyond that which the playwright, producer, and director have created. The audience is not acknowledged or addressed; the action occurs within its own self-contained universe. To "break the... In theater, the concept of a "fourth wall" is integral to most playwrights' concepts of story and production. Simply, it refers to an imaginary wall separating the audience from the stage and is intended to emphasize, for the actors, the need to separate themselves from the world beyond that which the playwright, producer, and director have created. The audience is not acknowledged or addressed; the action occurs within its own self-contained universe. To "break the fourth wall,"

In Freak the Mighty, what does the cop say that alludes to the fact that Max's dad is in prison?

In chapter seven, Max and Kevin join forces to escape the attack of Tony D. and his gang. With Kevin on Max's shoulders, Kevin does the thinking and directing while Max does the running. They end up running into the pond to get away from Tony's blade, but then the bullies start throwing rocks at the boys. Fortunately, Kevin can whistle loud enough to attract the attention of a cop car. The cop car shines... In chapter seven, Max and Kevin join forces to escape the attack of Tony D. and his gang. With Kevin on Max's shoulders, Kevin does the thinking and directing while Max does the running. They end up running into the pond to get away from Tony's blade, but then the bullies start throwing rocks at the boys. Fortunately, Kevin can whistle loud enough to attract the attention of a cop car. The cop car shines a bright spotlight over the pond and discovers the boys. Eventually, the cops get ropes to assist in recovering the boys from the pond. The boys are given blankets a

In Shakespeare's Macbeth, how do the witches and Lady Macbeth influence Macbeth throughout the play?

The witches and Lady Macbeth are major instigators throughout the play. They push, encourage, or trick Macbeth into committing horrific acts and sealing his own fate, as redemption becomes more and more unlikely. In Act I, the witches appear and provide Macbeth with a first temptation: they tell him that he will be king, among other things. This awakens in Macbeth an underlying or hidden ambition - that is, to kill Duncan, and claim the throne. When Lady Macbeth reads her husband's letter, and is thus informed of the prophecy, she immediately leaps into action. She persuades Macbeth to kill Duncan. She does this, mainly, by questioning his manly strength, and feeding his desire for power. She also tries to comfort him after the act. Thus, we can say that Lady Macbeth builds upon what had already been planted by the witches in Act I. In Act IV, they reappear, but in a much different light. Now, they taunt Macbeth; they show him a procession of eight kings, all of which are descended

Why is Macbeth so interested in Banquo's plans in Shakespeare's Macbeth?

As part of his growing paranoia, Macbeth is concerned about Banquo's plans because Banquo has also heard the prophesy about Macbeth and may suspect him of regicide. Also, the witches told Banquo that his sons will be kings, and Macbeth wants to prevent this prophesy from being fulfilled by having him followed and killed. In Act III, Scene 1, Banquo arrives at the palace and speaks to himself about Macbeth. He remarks that the prophesy... As part of his growing paranoia, Macbeth is concerned about Banquo's plans because Banquo has also heard the prophesy about Macbeth and may suspect him of regicide. Also, the witches told Banquo that his sons will be kings, and Macbeth wants to prevent this prophesy from being fulfilled by having him followed and killed. In Act III, Scene 1, Banquo arrives at the palace and speaks to himself about Macbeth. He remarks that the prophesy of the three "weird women" has come true for Macbeth: He is now king. But Banquo also recalls that th