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Showing posts from October, 2017

Why did Gatsby fire all of his servants?

Gatsby does this in Chapter 7, just two chapters after Nick has set up a clandestine meeting for Gatsby and Daisy to rekindle the romance of their youth. After a rough start, the two seem very much in love again and are likely to begin an affair.  Having recaptured Daisy, Gatsby stops throwing his lavish parties, which were always a way to tempt her and impress her. He also fires all his servants, saying to Nick,... Gatsby does this in Chapter 7, just two chapters after Nick has set up a clandestine meeting for Gatsby and Daisy to rekindle the romance of their youth. After a rough start, the two seem very much in love again and are likely to begin an affair.  Having recaptured Daisy, Gatsby stops throwing his lavish parties, which were always a way to tempt her and impress her. He also fires all his servants, saying to Nick, "I wanted somebody who wouldn’t gossip. Daisy comes over quite often—in the afternoons" (Chapter 7). He replaces them with people connected to Meyer Wolf

What are five issues mentioned in Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech?

Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech was delivered in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963. It was part of a civil rights demonstration called the “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.” The demonstration was attended by over 200,000 people and was capped by King’s speech. King’s purpose was to state, as eloquently and persuasively as possible, the plight of African-Americans (usually referred to as “negroes” at that time, a word that... Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech was delivered in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963. It was part of a civil rights demonstration called the “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.” The demonstration was attended by over 200,000 people and was capped by King’s speech. King’s purpose was to state, as eloquently and persuasively as possible, the plight of African-Americans (usually referred to as “negroes” at that time, a word that is no longer considered politically correct) in modern America. His primary contention was

What is the hyperbole in "The Lake Isle of Innisfree?"

Hyperbole is not usually the first word one associates with "The Lake Isle of Innisfree," but if we understand hyperbole to mean not only exaggeration, but "claims [that are] not meant to be taken literally," as Google defines it, we can begin develop a context for understanding the poem through this lens.  The poem does use hyperbole in the sense of "claims not meant to be taken literally." Yeats was inspired to write this poem... Hyperbole is not usually the first word one associates with "The Lake Isle of Innisfree," but if we understand hyperbole to mean not only exaggeration, but "claims [that are] not meant to be taken literally," as Google defines it, we can begin develop a context for understanding the poem through this lens.  The poem does use hyperbole in the sense of "claims not meant to be taken literally." Yeats was inspired to write this poem while living in London by memories of childhood visits to the Isle of I

What is the significance of Aunt Clara and Clara the brothel owner having the same name in Of Mice and Men?

During the Great Depression, the traditional family structure often fell apart as farms failed and jobs grew scarce. Fathers left to find work and young single men hesitated to enter serious relationships, given the financial responsibilities attached thereto. These men often traveled and worked solely in the company of other men in a world devoid of mothers and wives. Aunt Clara and the Clara of the brothel represent surrogates, or stand-ins, for those respective roles. ... During the Great Depression, the traditional family structure often fell apart as farms failed and jobs grew scarce. Fathers left to find work and young single men hesitated to enter serious relationships, given the financial responsibilities attached thereto. These men often traveled and worked solely in the company of other men in a world devoid of mothers and wives. Aunt Clara and the Clara of the brothel represent surrogates, or stand-ins, for those respective roles. We first encounter the non-traditional famil

Darcy's housekeeper tells Elizabeth that she has never had a cross word from him. How does this affect Elizabeth? A- She is worried that Jane will...

The best option here is the last one, D. When Elizabeth hears from Darcy's housekeeper, who has known him since his early childhood, that he has never spoken an unkind word to her, Elizabeth realizes that she may have misjudged Darcy as someone stuck-up and rude, when in fact Darcy may actually be very kind in his private life, kind even to those below him in social status, like his housekeeper. Let's take a close... The best option here is the last one, D. When Elizabeth hears from Darcy's housekeeper, who has known him since his early childhood, that he has never spoken an unkind word to her, Elizabeth realizes that she may have misjudged Darcy as someone stuck-up and rude, when in fact Darcy may actually be very kind in his private life, kind even to those below him in social status, like his housekeeper. Let's take a close look at that passage: "I say no more than the truth, and everybody will say that knows him," replied the other. Elizabeth thought thi

What more do we learn about the nature of Iago in Act II of Othello?

One thing we learn about Iago in the second act is that he treats his wife Emilia poorly and appears to be a misogynist. He announces to everyone that Emilia talks too much and then makes generalizations about women: … you are pictures out of doors, Bells in your parlors, wild-cats in your kitchens, Saints in your injuries, devils being offended, Players in your housewifery, and housewives in your beds. Iago says all this in a joking manner, and Cassio excuses him because he is a soldier: “You may relish him more in the soldier than in the scholar.” Iago’s plot to frame Cassio and Desdemona also becomes clearer. When Iago watches Cassio and Desdemona speak to one another, he says to himself, “with as little a web as this will I ensnare as great a fly as Cassio.” Iago quickly manages to convince Roderigo of this affair, degrading both Cassio and Desdemona in his explanation. Then Iago ruins Cassio’s reputation by getting him drunk and telling Roderigo to provoke him. Cassio, who is susc

What does Madam Forestier lend Mathilde to wear to the party in "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant?

Madame Forestier lends Mathilde a necklace that Mathilde thinks is made of real diamonds but turns out to be costume jewelry. Mathilde Loisel is upset when her husband says he has an invitation to a fancy ball. She always wishes she had more money and prestige than she does, so he thinks it is a big score. He expects her to be thrilled, but she is upset because she doesn’t think she has the right clothes for the occasion. She had no clothes, no jewels, nothing. And these were the only things she loved; she felt that she was made for them. She had longed so eagerly to charm, to be desired, to be wildly attractive and sought after. Her husband gives Mathilde the money he has been saving up to buy a new gun for hunting so she can buy a dress, but she is still unhappy because she doesn’t have a jewel. Her husband suggests flowers are in fashion, but she is not satisfied. He then reminds her that she has a rich friend, Madame Forestier. Mathilde likes this suggestion. Madame Forestier is wi

Phillip assumes his father and other men are in boats looking for him, but what does Phillip fail to understand in Theodore Taylor's The Cay?

In Theodore Taylor's The Cay , Phillip assumes his father has ships out looking for Phillip, but what Phillip doesn't realize is that he and Timothy could be in a section of the cays surrounded by coral reefs , which make it impossible for any vessels other than fishing boats and airplanes to come near them.At first, Timothy encourages the thought that they could soon be rescued by a ship, like a schooner. He... In Theodore Taylor's The Cay , Phillip assumes his father has ships out looking for Phillip, but what Phillip doesn't realize is that he and Timothy could be in a section of the cays surrounded by coral reefs , which make it impossible for any vessels other than fishing boats and airplanes to come near them. At first, Timothy encourages the thought that they could soon be rescued by a ship, like a schooner. He says that if they are near the cays, then they are on the ships' route to Jamaica. But, Timothy changes his tune the deeper they drift into the cays

In Act III, to whom does Hamlet say, "Give me that man / that is not passion's slave, and I will wear him / in my heart's core"?

Hamlet is speaking confidentially to Horatio in Act III, Scene 2, just before the play-within-a-play is about to begin. The main purpose of Hamlet's long speech to his friend seems to be to establish that Hamlet likes and trusts Horatio so thoroughly that he has decided to tell him everything he heard from the Ghost in Act I, Scene 5. What Hamlet means when he says the lines, "Give me the man / That is not passion's slave, and I will wear him / In my heart of hearts," etc., is explained by the lines immediately preceding them. For thou hast been As one, in suff'ring all, that suffers nothing; A man that Fortune's buffets and rewards Hast ta'en with equal thanks; and blest are those Whose blood and judgment are so well commeddled That they are not a pipe for Fortune's finger To sound what stop she please.  Hamlet is characterizing Horatio for the benefit of his audience as a man of strong character and sound judgment. Hamlet wants Horatio to observe the

How does Mangan's sister represent the country of Ireland?

It's a pretty dark and bleak world in which the narrator lives. His street is "blind" and "quiet" with a "brown imperturbable [face]." The home's former tenant, a priest, had died inside, and the garden behind the house had grown "wild." The story is set during winter, when "dusk fell before" dinnertime, and the narrator and his friends would play outside in the "dark muddy lanes" and "dark dripping gardens," near the "dark odorous stables."... It's a pretty dark and bleak world in which the narrator lives. His street is "blind" and "quiet" with a "brown imperturbable [face]." The home's former tenant, a priest, had died inside, and the garden behind the house had grown "wild." The story is set during winter, when "dusk fell before" dinnertime, and the narrator and his friends would play outside in the "dark muddy lanes" and "d

What is the "literal" leaf in the leaf storm in the short story?

Considered by most readers to be a novella rather than a short story, since it's almost a hundred pages long, "Leaf Storm" takes its title from the "storm" (or sudden influx) of workers and companies in the banana business who seem to flutter in all at once and take over the town of Macondo, drastically changing the landscape of its economy and social structure before leaving just as suddenly as it arrived, causing more devastation and... Considered by most readers to be a novella rather than a short story, since it's almost a hundred pages long, "Leaf Storm" takes its title from the "storm" (or sudden influx) of workers and companies in the banana business who seem to flutter in all at once and take over the town of Macondo, drastically changing the landscape of its economy and social structure before leaving just as suddenly as it arrived, causing more devastation and instability to the town. So while there is no truly literal leaf othe

What's the best way to do homework on the weekend? I have trouble with this because everyone in my house is home or getting ready to go out.

Find a low-traffic area of the house and set a schedule to get your homework done on weekends.   Weekends can be difficult times to get things done.  There are many distractions pulling you in different directions.  Often people who do not have homework want you to go with them and do something.  It can be frustrating to have to choose between friends and family and textbooks.  Although every situation is unique, here are a few tips to make it easier to finish homework: First of all, you need to choose where you work carefully.  This is not always possible, but finding a room that does not get a lot of people going in and out is key.  For example, working in your bedroom might be easier than working at the dinner table where people are always around.  If you have your own room, this will be easier.  If you don’t, you need to identify a room that is not being used and get permission to use it.  It is also important to talk to your family and friends.  Explain to them that you really nee

What do the writers of the Declaration of Independence highlight as the chief causes for the Revolution? What it meant by "Laws of Nature,"...

In the first two paragraphs of the Declaration of Independence, which are called the Introduction and Preamble, the writers explain the chief causes of the Revolution. The writers state that they are breaking away from Great Britain to have access to "the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them." This is a reference by natural law, an Enlightenment concept that declared that people have rights that they are born with (as opposed to human law, which are laws made by a certain society).  Then comes the famous line:  "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The term "self-evident" means that the statement does not to be proved. Instead, it follows from natural law that people are born with unalienable rights, which means rights that no gove

What were the causes of World War II?

There were many events that led up to the start of the second World War.  Some historians argue that World II was simply a continuation of World War I.  This topic is extremely complex, so I will highlight some of the main causes. The Treaty of Versailles stated that Germany was to blame for World War I.  Germany was ordered to pay reparations to France and to Great Britain.  The country had already suffered greatly during... There were many events that led up to the start of the second World War.  Some historians argue that World II was simply a continuation of World War I.  This topic is extremely complex, so I will highlight some of the main causes. The Treaty of Versailles stated that Germany was to blame for World War I.  Germany was ordered to pay reparations to France and to Great Britain.  The country had already suffered greatly during World War I.  In order to pay the money, they printed a massive amount of German marks.  This led to significant inflation, and German money be

What does the following quote from Romeo and Juliet mean: "Bid her devise / Some means to come to shrift this afternoon. / And there she shall...

First, let's get some context for this quote, which is spoken by Romeo in Act Two, Scene Four of Romeo and Juliet . Prior to this scene, Romeo and Juliet have locked eyes at the Capulet's ball, fallen in love at first sight, and have secretly met to chatter about this aforementioned love on the balcony outside of Juliet's bedroom. In the latter scene, Juliet has instructed Romeo to wait for the arrival of Juliet's... First, let's get some context for this quote, which is spoken by Romeo in Act Two, Scene Four of Romeo and Juliet . Prior to this scene, Romeo and Juliet have locked eyes at the Capulet's ball, fallen in love at first sight, and have secretly met to chatter about this aforementioned love on the balcony outside of Juliet's bedroom. In the latter scene, Juliet has instructed Romeo to wait for the arrival of Juliet's nurse, who is intended to act as the messenger between the two and to carry the secret information of where Juliet should meet Ro

Some dreadful calamity will happen, it is not to be doubted this third time, after what has gone before. But surely this is a cruel haunting of me....

The speaker of these lines is the signalman and he is speaking to the narrator. The signalman feels certain that a "dreadful calamity" is about to happen because two accidents have recently occurred on the railway line and each of these was preceded by a ghostly apparition which warned him of the events to come. The signalman suspects that this third ghostly sighting is designed to warn him of another impending accident but he is... The speaker of these lines is the signalman and he is speaking to the narrator. The signalman feels certain that a "dreadful calamity" is about to happen because two accidents have recently occurred on the railway line and each of these was preceded by a ghostly apparition which warned him of the events to come. The signalman suspects that this third ghostly sighting is designed to warn him of another impending accident but he is unable to decipher the ghost's message, prompting him to call it a "cruel haunting." He despera

What are the effects of terrorism?

There are many effects of terrorism. One effect is to cause fear in a group of people. Terrorists hope that their actions will frighten people. They hope this fear will lead the people to pressure their government to make changes in government policies and actions that will be favorable to the terrorists. Terrorism also disrupts our daily routines. Flying has become more complicated with the screening and the searching of passengers and of suitcases. Entrance... There are many effects of terrorism. One effect is to cause fear in a group of people. Terrorists hope that their actions will frighten people. They hope this fear will lead the people to pressure their government to make changes in government policies and actions that will be favorable to the terrorists. Terrorism also disrupts our daily routines. Flying has become more complicated with the screening and the searching of passengers and of suitcases. Entrance into some public buildings now requires people to go through metal de

How is Holden Caulfield being a hypocrite to the adults in The Catcher in the Rye? Who are the adults that he is hypocritical to?

Holden Caulfield is an interesting character in that his own actions do not reflect his beliefs about how others should act and who they should be. Throughout the book, he expresses the idea that a person should be exactly who they present themselves as; if they turn out to be somewhat different than they appear to be, he refers to them as "phony." This is fascinating because in the book we see that Holden is... Holden Caulfield is an interesting character in that his own actions do not reflect his beliefs about how others should act and who they should be. Throughout the book, he expresses the idea that a person should be exactly who they present themselves as; if they turn out to be somewhat different than they appear to be, he refers to them as "phony." This is fascinating because in the book we see that Holden is very dishonest when interacting and speaking with others; he often pretends to be someone that the reader knows he is not. He is critical of the people

What impact did anti-slavery groups have?

Anti-slavery groups had an impact in bringing slavery to an end. There were several anti-slavery groups that existed in the 1800s. William Lloyd Garrison founded the New England Anti-Slavery Society and the American Anti-Slavery Society. His newspaper, called The Liberator , advocated for freeing the slaves. His newspaper spread the word about ending slavery. Sarah and Angelina Grimke grew up on a plantation as daughters of a plantation owner. When they got older, they spoke... Anti-slavery groups had an impact in bringing slavery to an end. There were several anti-slavery groups that existed in the 1800s. William Lloyd Garrison founded the New England Anti-Slavery Society and the American Anti-Slavery Society. His newspaper, called The Liberator , advocated for freeing the slaves. His newspaper spread the word about ending slavery. Sarah and Angelina Grimke grew up on a plantation as daughters of a plantation owner. When they got older, they spoke about and lectured about ending slave

How does Shakespeare create a vivid world within Macbeth?

Shakespeare's plays are full of vivid worlds; look no further than the imaginative forest outside Athens in  A Midsummer Night's Dream , or the fairy-tale setting of Belmont in  A Merchant of Venice . Like these plays,  Macbeth features a vivid world that is at once both believable and fantastic. One of the main ways that Shakespeare creates this vivid world is by including the three witches, the Weird Sisters.  By beginning his play with... Shakespeare's plays are full of vivid worlds; look no further than the imaginative forest outside Athens in  A Midsummer Night's Dream , or the fairy-tale setting of Belmont in  A Merchant of Venice . Like these plays,  Macbeth features a vivid world that is at once both believable and fantastic. One of the main ways that Shakespeare creates this vivid world is by including the three witches, the Weird Sisters.  By beginning his play with the strange spectacle of the Weird Sisters on a deserted heath, Shakespeare immediately tells

What was Lennie's bad decision in Of Mice and Men?

Lennie makes several bad decisions throughout the course of the book.  The guys have had to relocate because of a bad decision he made in Weed.  Once on the ranch in their new jobs, he takes a puppy, which he promptly kills, and then breaks Curley’s wife’s neck. George describes the incident in Weed when he and Lennie are waiting to go to the ranch.  Lennie wanted to feel the lady’s soft dress, and pet... Lennie makes several bad decisions throughout the course of the book.  The guys have had to relocate because of a bad decision he made in Weed.  Once on the ranch in their new jobs, he takes a puppy, which he promptly kills, and then breaks Curley’s wife’s neck. George describes the incident in Weed when he and Lennie are waiting to go to the ranch.  Lennie wanted to feel the lady’s soft dress, and pet it like his mouse.  Lennie likes to touch soft things, and stroke them. "… Well, how the hell did she know you jus' wanted to feel her dress? She jerks back and you hold on lik

What are the figures of speech in Sonnet 29?

When we look for figures of speech, we're looking for words and phrases that are not meant to be taken literally, so we're specifically looking to identify these devices: figurative comparisons (similes and metaphors) exaggeration for a dramatic effect (hyperbole) and human traits given to nonhuman things and ideas (personification). In Sonnet 29, which is about the speaker's sadness over being unsuccessful in life until he remembers how lucky he is to have the person... When we look for figures of speech, we're looking for words and phrases that are not meant to be taken literally, so we're specifically looking to identify these devices: figurative comparisons (similes and metaphors) exaggeration for a dramatic effect (hyperbole) and human traits given to nonhuman things and ideas (personification). In Sonnet 29, which is about the speaker's sadness over being unsuccessful in life until he remembers how lucky he is to have the person who loves him, we find some

What are two events that inspired the Latin American independence movements?

There were several factors that inspired the Latin American independence movements in the early 1800s. One factor was the success of the American Revolution. Our revolution showed other countries that it was possible to rebel against a strong colonial power. Our revolution also explained under what circumstances a revolution would be justified. The people in the Latin American countries believed these conditions existed in their countries. The people in the Latin American countries weren’t happy... There were several factors that inspired the Latin American independence movements in the early 1800s. One factor was the success of the American Revolution. Our revolution showed other countries that it was possible to rebel against a strong colonial power. Our revolution also explained under what circumstances a revolution would be justified. The people in the Latin American countries believed these conditions existed in their countries. The people in the Latin American countries weren’t h

In Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick, why is Maxwell Kane kidnapped by Kenny David Kane?

Maxwell Kane is Kenny Kane's son who has lived with his mother's parents for the last ten years. Kenny Kane, also known as Killer Kane, has been in jail for all of that time. Once he makes parole, Grim and Gram, Maxwell's grandparents and legal guardians, place a restraining order on Mr. Kane to deter him from getting close to their home or Maxwell. Since Killer Kane went to jail, he never had contact with... Maxwell Kane is Kenny Kane's son who has lived with his mother's parents for the last ten years. Kenny Kane, also known as Killer Kane, has been in jail for all of that time. Once he makes parole, Grim and Gram, Maxwell's grandparents and legal guardians, place a restraining order on Mr. Kane to deter him from getting close to their home or Maxwell. Since Killer Kane went to jail, he never had contact with Maxwell because Grim and Gram thought it best that the boy not have any contact with his murderous father. When Maxwell does meet his father, Kane tells

As described in the book Children of the Prison Boom: Mass Incarceration and the Future of American Inequality, how does mass incarceration in the...

In the book Children of the Prison Boom: Mass Incarceration and the Future of American Inequality , authors Sara Wakefield of Rutgers University and Christopher Wildeman of Yale University explore the effects of high rates of US incarceration, turning their attention to the children of incarcerated parents. Using data from surveys of children and caregivers and qualitative interview data, Wakefield and Wildeman show how mass incarceration has disproportionately affected black men and their children. The... In the book Children of the Prison Boom: Mass Incarceration and the Future of American Inequality , authors Sara Wakefield of Rutgers University and Christopher Wildeman of Yale University explore the effects of high rates of US incarceration, turning their attention to the children of incarcerated parents. Using data from surveys of children and caregivers and qualitative interview data, Wakefield and Wildeman show how mass incarceration has disproportionately affected black men and

What elements of his life with the gang seem to cause Ponyboy inner conflict in The Outsiders?

From the very first page of the novel, it is clear Ponyboy feels different from the other members of his gang, The Greasers. He explains he went to see a movie by himself because "When I see a movie with someone it's kind of uncomfortable, like having someone read your book over your shoulder. I'm different that way. . . nobody in our gang digs movies and books the way I do. For a while... From the very first page of the novel, it is clear Ponyboy feels different from the other members of his gang, The Greasers. He explains he went to see a movie by himself because "When I see a movie with someone it's kind of uncomfortable, like having someone read your book over your shoulder. I'm different that way. . . nobody in our gang digs movies and books the way I do. For a while there, I thought I was the only person in the world that did." It appears that Ponyboy has always had a different way of thinking about things than other Greasers. He cares about school

In "The Pit and the Pendulum" by Edgar Allan Poe, why is the narrator afraid to open his eyes when he awakes to find himself on his back with no...

The narrator is afraid because he does not know where he is.   "The Pit and the Pendulum" is a chilling horror story of a man who is the victim of the Spanish Inquisition.  He has been condemned to death, but he has no idea how he will be killed.  The terror of not knowing what is happening or going to happen consumes the narrator.  Since his capture, the narrator keeps fainting and waking up. ... The narrator is afraid because he does not know where he is.   "The Pit and the Pendulum" is a chilling horror story of a man who is the victim of the Spanish Inquisition.  He has been condemned to death, but he has no idea how he will be killed.  The terror of not knowing what is happening or going to happen consumes the narrator.  Since his capture, the narrator keeps fainting and waking up.  When he wakes up, he is afraid to look around him.  He does not know what he will find, and he does not want to find out.  If he opens his eyes, everything will become more real.  T

In Gaskell's short story "The Old Nurse's Story": How does Gaskell describe Furnivall Manor? What are the uncanny elements of this new home for...

In her short story "The Old Nurse's Story," Gaskell describes Furnivall Manor as covered with overgrown vegetation and situated in a wild park with "gnarled thorn-trees, and old oaks, all white and peeled with age." Though the wild forest was long ago cleared to make a garden, the forest has regrown so that it now overshadows the house. The interior of the house is grand in its proportions and fitted out with a bronze chandelier,... In her short story "The Old Nurse's Story," Gaskell describes Furnivall Manor as covered with overgrown vegetation and situated in a wild park with "gnarled thorn-trees, and old oaks, all white and peeled with age." Though the wild forest was long ago cleared to make a garden, the forest has regrown so that it now overshadows the house. The interior of the house is grand in its proportions and fitted out with a bronze chandelier, oversized organ, and giant sofas, and the atmosphere is gloomy. The description o

What does Lincoln described as the impact of those who fought at Gettysburg?

Lincoln says that the men who died at Gettysburg have consecrated the battleground (part of which is now the cemetery Lincoln helped to dedicate with his speech) through their deaths. The impact of their sacrifice is profound, Lincoln said, because it reminded Americans of their need for sacrifice. In the end, the struggle is about whether or not a republic (a government "of the people, by the people, for the people") can exist. To lose... Lincoln says that the men who died at Gettysburg have consecrated the battleground (part of which is now the cemetery Lincoln helped to dedicate with his speech) through their deaths. The impact of their sacrifice is profound, Lincoln said, because it reminded Americans of their need for sacrifice. In the end, the struggle is about whether or not a republic (a government "of the people, by the people, for the people") can exist. To lose the struggle is inconceivable, and the soldiers died to ensure that the nation not only survive

What do you think would have happened if the climax in Jane Eyre changed ?

Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre is often regarded as one of the earliest major feminist novels because it gives voice and opportunity to a woman in the patriarchal society of the Victorian Era. In nineteenth century England, women were regarded as commodities with little subjectivity.  This caused marriages to be perceived as transactions instead of unions, and women were often stripped of individuality and power when under their male counterparts.  Thus, when the climax of the novel arrives with Jane’s decision to not accept St. John Rivers’ proposal, Jane demonstrates female autonomy that is a crucial element to the novel’s feminist stance.   Jane perceives her proposed marriage with St. John as a “sacrifice” on her behalf.  She states, “If I do go with him—if I do make the sacrifice he urges, I will make it absolutely: I will throw all on the alter—heart, vitals, the entire victim” (Brontë 466).  The figurative language of this quote aligns her marriage to St. John as an actual “killi

What are the similarities and differences between Christianity, Judaism, and Islam?

Christianity, Judaism and Islam are what we commonly call the "Abrahamic Religions."  The association with Abraham, and thus the biblical story of The Call of Abraham, influences all three of the above religions in terms of their beliefs about God and the origin of humanity.  In short, the very first tale of Abraham--found in the first of three sections of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Torah--is essentially about God's creation of the paradigmatic... Christianity, Judaism and Islam are what we commonly call the "Abrahamic Religions."  The association with Abraham, and thus the biblical story of The Call of Abraham, influences all three of the above religions in terms of their beliefs about God and the origin of humanity.  In short, the very first tale of Abraham--found in the first of three sections of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Torah--is essentially about God's creation of the paradigmatic human being. In an effort to see if Abraham would (un

“If personality is an unbroken series of successful gestures, then there was something gorgeous about him, some heightened sensitivity of the...

Gatsby is more sensitive to life than other people in the novel because he truly believes in love and wants to believe in Daisy, although she is not really worthy of his love. Every action he takes--from having lavish parties to buying a house with a view of the green light at the end of Daisy's dock--is to win her back. Unlike Tom, who treats Daisy with carelessness and cruelty at times, Gatsby loves and... Gatsby is more sensitive to life than other people in the novel because he truly believes in love and wants to believe in Daisy, although she is not really worthy of his love. Every action he takes--from having lavish parties to buying a house with a view of the green light at the end of Daisy's dock--is to win her back. Unlike Tom, who treats Daisy with carelessness and cruelty at times, Gatsby loves and treasures Daisy. The other characters don't believe in love to this degree. For example, Tom and Daisy have a marriage that is based on money and on their shared upper

What can people do to help preserve the environment for the next generation?

I'm glad to hear you are interested in helping to protect our environment! There are lots of ways to help preserve nature for future generations, most of which fall into the categories of prevention or reparation. Acts of prevention are those which help to avoid pollution or degradation of the environment. This includes acts like recycling and composting waste rather than sending it all to a landfill, using renewable energy sources, and choosing to walk... I'm glad to hear you are interested in helping to protect our environment! There are lots of ways to help preserve nature for future generations, most of which fall into the categories of prevention or reparation. Acts of prevention are those which help to avoid pollution or degradation of the environment. This includes acts like recycling and composting waste rather than sending it all to a landfill, using renewable energy sources, and choosing to walk or bike as opposed to riding in a car. Acts of reparation are those which

How much is too much math to require for high school graduation? What do you think and why?

While states used to generally require Algebra I and geometry, many states are moving towards requiring geometry and Algebra II, including some trigonometry, for students to graduate from high school (see the first link below for state requirements). The state with the highest math scores, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (see the NCES link below) is Massachusetts, which leaves these decisions up to local school boards. The lowest-performing state, Alabama, requires Algebra... While states used to generally require Algebra I and geometry, many states are moving towards requiring geometry and Algebra II, including some trigonometry, for students to graduate from high school (see the first link below for state requirements). The state with the highest math scores, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (see the NCES link below) is Massachusetts, which leaves these decisions up to local school boards. The lowest-performing state, Alabama, requir

In Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, what is Tybalt's physical appearance?

Tybalt's appearance is not really described. We know that he is young, and a bit of a hothead, eager to defend his family's honor and his own against perceived insults. For example, he is restrained by Lord Capulet at the family masquerade when he attempts to fight Romeo, who has showed up in costume. But the only description of Tybalt comes from Mercutio, who says he is "a very tall man." But even Mercurio is... Tybalt's appearance is not really described. We know that he is young, and a bit of a hothead, eager to defend his family's honor and his own against perceived insults. For example, he is restrained by Lord Capulet at the family masquerade when he attempts to fight Romeo, who has showed up in costume. But the only description of Tybalt comes from Mercutio, who says he is "a very tall man." But even Mercurio is more focused on Tybalt's skills as a duellist. He describes him as a "very butcher of a silk button," and a gentle man

Macbeth is reported to be a valiant soldier in Act I. The line "Till he unseamed him from the nave to th’chops / And fixed his head upon our...

As your question states, the first time we hear about Macbeth, he is praised as an impressive soldier. When the wounded Captain relates the story of Macbeth's slaying of the rebel Macdonwald, he refers to "brave Macbeth—well he deserves that name" (I.ii.16). King Duncan praises Macbeth as "valiant cousin" and "worthy gentleman" (I.ii.24). However, your question seems to imply that Macbeth's actions don't deserve that descriptor. In fact, given how Macbeth bests Macdonwald (as stated in the... As your question states, the first time we hear about Macbeth, he is praised as an impressive soldier. When the wounded Captain relates the story of Macbeth's slaying of the rebel Macdonwald, he refers to "brave Macbeth—well he deserves that name" (I.ii.16). King Duncan praises Macbeth as "valiant cousin" and "worthy gentleman" (I.ii.24). However, your question seems to imply that Macbeth's actions don't deserve th

How does Juliet deal with challenges in the play? Please provide quotations for support.

Juliet tends to deal with challenges by following her heart.  She knows that her family would not approve of her feelings for Romeo, but she pursues those feelings nonetheless.  She says, "O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? / Deny thy father and refuse thy name, / Or if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, / And I'll no longer be a Capulet" (2.2.36-39).  She hopes that Romeo will be willing to stand... Juliet tends to deal with challenges by following her heart.  She knows that her family would not approve of her feelings for Romeo, but she pursues those feelings nonetheless.  She says, "O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? / Deny thy father and refuse thy name, / Or if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, / And I'll no longer be a Capulet" (2.2.36-39).  She hopes that Romeo will be willing to stand up to his father and even relinquish his family name and honor; if he will not, she is willing to give up her own.  Thus, she ranks the demands of he

Why does Antony befriend Brutus, Cassius, and the other conspirators?

After Caesar is assassinated, Antony flees to his own home. But he must realize that he has no safety anywhere in Rome if the conspirators decide to kill him too. He sends a servant to meet with Brutus and deliver a verbal message which includes the following. If Brutus will vouchsafe that Antony May safely come to him and be resolved How Caesar hath deserved to lie in death, Mark Antony shall not love Caesar dead So well as Brutus living, but will follow The fortunes and affairs of noble Brutus Thorough the hazards of this untrod state With all true faith.     (III.1) Antony addresses Brutus as the leader of the faction. He knows that Brutus will be easier to manipulate than any of the others. Brutus is a man of honor, and as such he tends to believe that other men are like himself. He believes everything Antony tells him. Antony shows precisely what he is afraid of, and why he is using all his cunning to save his own life, when he says: I know not, gentlemen, what you intend, Who els

What flaws does Odysseus show in Book IX of Homer's The Odyssey?

In terms of his flaws, Odysseus shows some greediness in this book.  Prior to the Cyclops' return to his home, Odysseus's men try to convince him to take some food and return to their ship; however, he "refused -- far better had [he] yielded."  He hoped that the owner of the cave would return and "offer gifts," a custom in Greece at the time because travelers were protected by Zeus.  If a host could manage,... In terms of his flaws, Odysseus shows some greediness in this book.  Prior to the Cyclops' return to his home, Odysseus's men try to convince him to take some food and return to their ship; however, he "refused -- far better had [he] yielded."  He hoped that the owner of the cave would return and "offer gifts," a custom in Greece at the time because travelers were protected by Zeus.  If a host could manage, he would often provide a traveler with a guest-gift, meant to honor the guest; however, a guest was never supposed to t

My boyfriend of six months has moved farther away. I don't know if we can have a healthy relationship if he lives so far away. Can you give me advice?

While plenty of people have happy, healthy, long-distance relationships, this is not the case for everyone. Being far apart can create difficulties in scheduling times to talk on the phone or use video chat, and certainly puts stress on the intimacy that's been established in a relationship. That being said, some people maintain friendships and romantic relationships without ever meeting in person! Here are a few things you may want to consider: You mentioned that your boyfriend has moved  farther  away and that you did not already live in the same place. Has the distance between you been a source of stress or complications in the six months you've been in a relationship? If so, how do you think the increased distance might add to this stress? If not, why do you think distance will become a problem now if it has not been thus far? Were you able to visit and spend time with each other, but now cannot?  What means of communication do you use to "spend time" with each ot

Comment on the power exerted by the American on Jig in the short story "Hills Like White Elephants."

The American and his girlfriend Jig have come to a train station in Spain near the Ebro River (rivers often run through Hemingway's stories). At first, they seem like a happy-go-lucky couple who are just enjoying a vacation. In the first part of the story, the reader understands that the man is in full control of the situation. He speaks Spanish, the language of the country where they are traveling, while the woman does not.... The American and his girlfriend Jig have come to a train station in Spain near the Ebro River (rivers often run through Hemingway's stories). At first, they seem like a happy-go-lucky couple who are just enjoying a vacation. In the first part of the story, the reader understands that the man is in full control of the situation. He speaks Spanish, the language of the country where they are traveling, while the woman does not. He is seemingly an expert on the drinks they order. He is in charge of the luggage they are carrying, and presumably the itinerary

How would you summarize the afterword and appendix of 1984 by George Orwell?

In the appendix of 1984 , Orwell outlines the "The Principles of Newspeak" as a means of providing the reader with a better understanding of its construction and purpose. Firstly, Orwell notes that Newspeak is the official language of Oceania and is "founded on the English language." At the time of writing, however, Oldspeak (the former language of England) remained in widespread use and there did not exist a single person who used Newspeak as... In the appendix of 1984 , Orwell outlines the "The Principles of Newspeak" as a means of providing the reader with a better understanding of its construction and purpose. Firstly, Orwell notes that Newspeak is the official language of Oceania and is "founded on the English language." At the time of writing, however, Oldspeak (the former language of England) remained in widespread use and there did not exist a single person who used Newspeak as the only means of communicating. Newspeak is, therefore, a wo

How do the decisions that patients and their doctors make impact insurance plans?

Although health insurance plans set their own guidelines for coverage, patients and doctors do have an impact on their outcomes.  Physicians have an ethical responsibility to provide the most appropriate care to their patients.  Doctors’ decisions and recommendations directly impact health care costs.  Physicians who spend less time with their patients and circumvent an extensive review of their medical background may rely more on diagnostic tests.  This decision ultimately increases medical expenses billed to the... Although health insurance plans set their own guidelines for coverage, patients and doctors do have an impact on their outcomes.  Physicians have an ethical responsibility to provide the most appropriate care to their patients.  Doctors’ decisions and recommendations directly impact health care costs.  Physicians who spend less time with their patients and circumvent an extensive review of their medical background may rely more on diagnostic tests.  This decision ultimatel