Hearts and Minds Essay

Movies and documentaries have a way of touching the lives of many. For the most part, they are geared towards the exhibition of truths that are hidden from other people. The documentary, â€Å"Hearts and Minds†, mirrored the numerous difficulties experienced by the Vietnamese in the hands of the American soldiers. The harsh realities shown by the American soldiers towards the Vietnamese was quite difficult to believe, for we all know how the Americans would care for any other individual. Directed by Peter Davis, the documentary showed different clips that prove the harsh attitude towards people at that time. Even the speech of former President Lyndon Johnson was shown in the said documentary. To give people a great feel of the said timeline, much of the most famous details during that particular time were shown. The type of music, clothes, and even some old archives were shown. In this manner, it would become easier for the audiences to understand what was being explained to them. I admire the montage feeling provided by the documentary. Together with the voice over, watching the documentary was like watching any other historical how. However, what sets it apart from the rest were the heartbreaking realities exhibited. I could not help but wonder as to how people were treated unfairly and how other people could bear causing pain to others. One of the scenes that caught my attention was the funeral of a soldier. Surrounding the coffin were grieving people, including the family and friends. However, for some reason, one grieving lady was stopped from following the coffin being laid to rest. This particular scene was contrasted with a clip showing the interview of the general who led the Vietnam War. Furthermore, there were several other interviews included in the documentary. Although I am not of Vietnamese, origin I was heartbroken by the difficulties experienced at that time. For the longest time, they experienced pain, both physical and emotional, while they struggled to raise their families accordingly. A particular scene exemplified the hardships endured by the Vietnamese during that particular time. The scene showed how the prisoners of the war were sitting restless and not paying attention to what their employer had in mind. I felt pity with the condition these people experienced, toppled by the excessive torture and inhumane humiliations provided by the American soldiers. After watching the documentary, one could not help but question what has been taught in class during our younger days. I was surprised at how the outcome of this war has been, including the participation that the American soldiers portrayed. However, due to the extensive information provided, some critics may also form their own conclusion as to how the said war was used as propaganda. On the other hand, it would be expected that some people would opt to be biased towards the Vietnamese and consider them to be victims of the American occupation. Regardless of everything that has been said, I believe that we all have our own perceptions towards things. Personally, I believe that the goal of this film was to show the other side of history that not everyone was aware of. In this manner, I would be able to form my own beliefs as to how people would be able to learn from these hurtful experiences. It is useless for us to keep on living in the past—we should all move forward in helping make a different in this lifetime. I must say that I recommend this film to everyone, especially those who are currently studying about the history of the United States.

Star dust relationships

Captain Shakespeare mentor of youth In the movie Stardust, a movie about a boy becoming a man though a Journey for love, relationships play a key role in the plot. Temptation sent the main character Tristan on a Journey that will change the course of his life. Tristan eventually finds the fallen star and the relationship between Yvaine and Tristan has begun. Tristan and Yvaine learn many things along their Journey especially while meeting Captain Shakespeare.The things they learn from Captain Shakespeare are that, there are ifetimes to build seconds to destroy, Tristan becomes a man and they both learn that true love is right in front of them. Tristan's lust towards Victoria has sent him on a Journey to find the fallen star, which has fallen on the other side of the wall, a place where people from England are not to cross. When Tristan finds the star, Yvaine, he takes her on the Journey back to the wall. Eventually after a period of time they end up in the clouds where they are picke d up by the terrifying captain Shakespeare.Captain Shakespeare is a man iding something else, something that he wouldn't show someone he doesn't trust, hiding the fact that he has a very soft side. He devised a way to get Tristan and Yvaine to the wall. During that time he shows Tristan how to fght and Yvaine to waltz, the whole time trying to hide this soft side he has, even though he is overflowing with joy. He reveals to Yvaine about the known fact that she is a star since she has been glowing brighter every day and he thinks he knows exactly why. This mentor to pupil relationship is one that relates to many different things, such as the kids learning rom their parents.The second thing these two learn from Captain Shakespeare is that there are lifetimes to build and seconds to destroy. This means what it sounds like, one has a whole lifetime to build a reputation for them, while yet there are seconds to destroy. Captain Shakespeare is a fine representation of this for he himself has a very large, and inaccurate, reputation to proceed. Being the captain of the Sky vessel and son of the legendary Captain Ghostmaker, he is known as a blood thirsty killer who is tough as nails.He chose his name Shakespeare because of the English poet and playwright, but his crew sees it as â€Å"shake spear†, or shaking a spear. Under his tough exterior captain Shakespeare could be called a â€Å"softy', he likes to dress up as a woman sometimes to express his true feelings. He will later be caught in the action by Prince Septimus, one of the 2 remaining princes attempting to track down Yvaine, the fallen star. Captain Shakespeare's crew, after chasing Septimus off the vessel, sees him dressed up as a woman with makeup on and says that they all knew he was whoopsie.They wouldn't have viewed as anything different then as their captain no matter how he was, which also shows that reputation isn't exactly everything. The last thing that Captain Shakespeare teaches Tristan i s that love is right in front of him. Tristan originally went to find the star for the girl of his dreams Victoria, she gives him a week to find the star and bring it back to her or she will marry Humphrey. Victoria wants to â€Å"bought† for her love and when Yvaine asks Tristan to tell ner some more about Victoria Tristan nas no more to say about her.He never ully realizes what he has in front of him until he meets Captain Shakespeare. Shakespeare has seen Tristan and Yvaine grow to be different from the people that arrived on the vessel at the beginning of their Journey. Tristan now has long hair, a sword and the skills to go with the sword. Yvaine is no longer in a bathrobe and has learned to waltz. The two have changed into bigger and better people. During the time in which Yvaine and captain Shakespeare are dancing Tristan takes Yvaine away from Shakespeare and dances with her, as they dance she begins to glow as she miles and laughs at things Tristan says and does.This makes captain Shakespeare smile. Before the two leave captain Shakespeare gives Tristan a thing of lightening and a whisper, in which he said that Tristan's true love is really right in front of him obviously what he was saying, is that Yvaine is his true love. This in turn, turns out to be true for Tristan and Yvaine become married and Tristan becomes king. Captain Shakespeare teaches Tristan 3 main things that love can sometimes be right in front of you, that there is a lifetime to build and seconds to destroy, and shows and eaches Tristan how to become a man.Tristan and Yvaine become married and Tristan learns who his mother really is. In Tristan becoming a man he goes to Victoria and instead of throwing the rock at his window, a childlike thing to do, he knocks on her door to tell her that he doesn't want be and she needs to grow up. Then as he is leaving stands up to Humphrey and proves even more that he has grown into something more. This is how Tristan and Yvaine grow into d ifferent people through the wonderful shaping hands of Captain Shakespeare.

How Your Personal Learning Style Enhanced Your Learning

When my University grade class began in September I had really few of the accomplishments necessary to finish it successfully. In the November of that twelvemonth an initial assignment was completed which outlined the strengths and failings present at the clip, and suggested a program for developing those which were missing. It is now March and the terminal of the first twelvemonth is fast nearing. So looking back, how have I improved? Have I managed to derive any new accomplishments, or polish my older accomplishments? This assignment focuses on those inquiries. However, it must be pointed out that in order to reply these inquiries fundamental alterations to my apprehension of the construct of survey accomplishments had to alter. As a consequence, farther development to my thought manners, larning environment, ability to debate and concise clip direction besides occurred. Using these freshly refined accomplishments I will travel back and analyze my first twelvemonth at university and determine whether or non the program I created to heighten my acquisition was effectual. As is widely reputed â€Å" all accomplishments improve through pattern, feedback and monitoring † ( Cottrell, 1999:30 ) . I hope to demo how I have capitalised on this construct, foregrounding how this twelvemonth has made me more cognizant of my preferable learning manner and what I need to make to better further still. Becoming a more effectual scholar is non something I was able to sit down and larn by reading a book on survey accomplishments, I had to larn to read my work objectively and be able to knock constructively. I will besides explicate subsequently on in this assignment why depicting a personal acquisition manner utilizing merely those theoretical accounts presently available is non ever good to a scholar. That alternatively, cognition should be used to make a individualized and adaptative model which you are in control of ; enabling you to â€Å" aˆÂ ¦learn about yourself and how you perform to your possible under any circumstancesaˆÂ ¦ † ( Cott rell, 1999:44 ) . By composing this assignment chronologically I hope to demo that development has both taken topographic point since September, and is still taking topographic point now. This assignment will get down with a brief reappraisal of the survey accomplishments already present at the start of the class, upon which an initial assignment was completed. The work of Stella Cottrell proved to be an priceless plus while researching for that assignment. Trusting chiefly upon her Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats ( SWOT ) analysis to assist with the designation of my survey accomplishments, it has since become apparent that this showed a deficiency of ability to be able to objectively analyze myself. The personal strengths her analysis brought to visible radiation included puting mini-goals, believing logically, debating with a friend, and organizing a physical workspace. Since so, nevertheless, it has become clear that these were non skills in themselves, but instead subskills. Thes e are all properties that a individual learns to develop in order to heighten a chief survey accomplishment ; such as assignment authorship, or general apprehension of a subject. I shall return to analyze these findings, and the importance they played in my hereafter development subsequently on in this assignment. Having reviewed the accomplishments present at the start of the class, this subdivision of the assignment will concentrate on those which have been developed since. Using the programs I created to attach to the initial assignment three key survey accomplishments have now been enhanced. These include reading ability, administration and the ability to debate. As mentioned earlier, accomplishments are made up of subskills, and it is the subskills which are developed to heighten the survey accomplishment. Reading ability and thought manners are frequently found manus in manus as a combined survey accomplishment. Last semester I lacked the ability to expeditiously pick out the salient points in a text, due in portion to my inflexibleness when reading. The program designed to keep fluidness and flexibleness when researching and reading helped heighten this accomplishment ( Appendix One ) . In bend, this helped to develop the next subskills of concentration, its lastingness and attending ; every bit good as memory capacity. However, the ability to debate a subject with a broader circle of people was non enhanced straight by utilizing either of the programs proposed last semester. Alternatively, this accomplishment came as an indirect consequence of an improved concentration, and wider reading and believing abilities. Attending regular categories and seminars, every bit good as take parting in group work, has seen the circle of people with whom I am able to debate class content addition. In bend, nevertheless, heightening the accomplishment of debating has encouraged farther development in all the survey skills antecedently mentioned ; there are now extra grounds to read widely and understand what I am larning. Finally, when heightening the survey accomplishment of administration, changeless appraisal of how my clip could be best spent was needed, turn outing Cottrell ‘s diagrammatic representation of a twenty-four hours, divided by activity, to be important ( Appendix Two ) . Every clip I referred back to it I reminded myself of merely how much clip I could potentially blow, and how much clip I could liberate up if I merely re-prioritised my day-to-day undertakings. By default this helped to develop the subskills of maintaining an organized physical workspace ; invariably puting come-at-able mini-goals ; and, when combined with the program to keep fluidness, my concentration. The importance of these survey accomplishments, every bit good as an account of how they have led me to look at other more advanced accomplishments, will be discussed in more item in a ulterior subdivision of this assignment. Having identified the accomplishments with which I began this class and contrasted them against those accomplishments which I have since learned, it is logical to turn to next the controversial topic of acquisition manners. For the intent of this assignment, I narrowed the available acquisition typologies down to the three most popular among instructors and pupils: the Gregorc Style Delineator ( GSD ) ; the Dunn ‘s Visual, Auditory and Kinaesthetic theoretical account ( VAK ) ; and the Honey and Mumford Scale. Upon finishing the GSD, of the four classs available, I placed myself most strongly into the ‘Abstract Sequential ‘ group. The given standards for this group is the understanding that such a scholar is at their optimal if they can â€Å" analyze a state of affairs before doing a determination † , but that they would happen it hard to follow â€Å" specific regulations and ordinances † and to be â€Å" sentimental † in idea. It is apparent from such stiff classification that this peculiar acquisition theoretical account Acts of the Apostless against developing accomplishments and more in favor of placing accomplishments. Sing each strength and failing in bend, it became clear that I really span all four of Gregorc ‘s classs. A categorization which he suggests is non healthy for a scholar to hold ; this averment straight opposes the political orientation of the Honey and Mumford Scale. When sing the VAK theoretical account it transpired that I am non a strong scholar in any one class ; being every bit able to larn in all Fieldss they propose. Again, they would propose that a scholar in such a place would endure troubles as it is non favorable to cross multiple classs. While this agrees with the GSD in its political orientation, it has a much heavier focal point on practical acquisition. Learning can take topographic point outside of the context of a book or other likewise formatted text, information learned through drama or music, for illustration, is besides valid. Finally, of the three theoretical accounts evaluated, it was the Honey and Mumford Scale that was most broad in its attack and actively encouraged a spanning of classs. Although this is the most clip devouring theoretical account to finish, it is more thorough for being so. I pulled in front strongly in two of the four classs, with a 3rd non far behind. Their advice upon such a categorization is to work to better the classs which score most ill. This last typology, as I have stated, seems the most utile to any scholar in detecting failings and strengths in larning and taking to develop those failings. The theories underlying the political orientation of the Honey and Mumford theoretical account will be explained in more item within a farther subdivision of this assignment, alongside which will be my ain ideas on how the acquisition typologies presently available can be combined to make a more personal acquisition manner. To analyze in more item the first subdivision of this assignment, in which the accomplishments present at the clip of composing the initial assignment are reviewed, the construct of soul-searching will be farther discussed. Although it can be said now that the trust upon Cottrell ‘s SWOT analysis showed an inability to objectively analyze myself, it must besides be pointed out that my apprehension of what a survey accomplishment is has besides changed. In the initial assignment such strengths as ‘setting mini-goals ‘ were identified without associating them to the overall accomplishments they helped to heighten. Following this illustration, the subskill of puting mini-goals improves administration, as does holding a designated physical workspace. Given that the initial assignment focused to a great extent on all the subskills linked to administration I will seek and broaden the focal point with this assignment. While it is true to state that my administration has im proved over the last twelvemonth, it is no longer a subject that requires such an extended analysis. Herne, Jessel and Griffiths ( 2000 ) explain that presuming active control of larning ensures that mental constructions will develop to help apprehension. Over the continuance of the last two semesters I have managed to develop one of their suggested productive survey schemes based on doing connexions: the construct map, or head map. This has proved to be utile in organizing non merely my ideas, but besides my essays and instance surveies. Deriving a better criterion of administration has helped me see that there were other countries of my personality that needed to better in order to profit more successfully from a university class. Once the significance of ‘study accomplishments ‘ had been adjusted and applied objectively, I was able to expeditiously utilize the programs developed with the initial assignment to develop those accomplishments which were missing. An inability to be flexible when reading – to merely pick out the salient points – was identified as a failing. In trying to heighten this accomplishment the program to keep fluidness and flexibleness was the more effectual of the two programs created. As Dominic Wyse ( 2006 ) , among others, has said â€Å" The individual most of import thing you can make to better the opportunities of success on your class is to read widely † . This cognition made it even more important to be able to utilize any clip exhausted reading more efficaciously. I followed the practical advice written by Herne, Jessel and Griffiths ( 2000 ) to enable me to read with purpose. They advise that text should be scanned foremost, paying peculiar atten ding to any headers every bit good as looking for familiar constructs. This plays on the theory that â€Å" understanding can be helped if relevant constructions are ‘activated ‘ by anterior cognition † ( Herne, Jessel, Griffiths, 2000:4 ) . I have besides increased the sum of H2O I drink during a twenty-four hours as Cottrell ( 1990 ) suggested that this may assist my organic structure relax ; when relaxed I will hold better reading comprehension. Reading widely is besides a subskill that helps to heighten other survey accomplishments, such as the ability to take part in argument ; a accomplishment I said was of most importance to me to be able to get the hang in the initial assignment. When reading both widely and on a regular basis a larger vocabulary is established, as written text uses a different signifier of the linguistic communication to talk text. To be able to expeditiously utilize a deeply larger cognition base when connection in treatments besides requires the ability to follow different values and individualities ( californium. Baynham and Maybin, 1996 ) . As is a common characteristic when working hand in glove, the sharing of such values and cognition is increased as each individual contributes a alone position to a treatment ( after Cottrell, 1999 ) . In bend, this development enhances the survey accomplishment of critical thought, something Edward Glaser defined as â€Å" aˆÂ ¦a relentless attempt to ana lyze any belief or supposed signifier of cognition in the visible radiation of the grounds that supports it and the farther decisions to which it tends † ( Cottrell, 1999:221 ) . Whilst it has already explained why this assignment will non concentrate intently on the survey accomplishment of administration, it is necessary to explicate whether the program created last semester to assist prioritize how I spend my clip was of any usage. Rather than follow the representation of my most efficient twenty-four hours ( Appendix Two ) as if it were a regulation, I was able to understand the political orientation behind it. This meant I invariably assessed my twenty-four hours and the undertakings I had to finish to see if I could do better usage of the clip available. It is as a consequence of these appraisals that I now feel confident to non hold to pay excessively much attending to how I spend my clip. Associating all these subskills and freshly enhanced survey accomplishments together is the metacognitive attack of changeless self-reflection and rating, for which â€Å" aˆÂ ¦you need some apprehension of the procedures of survey † ( Northedge, 1990:17 ) . This is an attack which I have taken chiefly from this faculty, hence a natural patterned advance from self-evaluation and contemplation would be to see the ‘habitual ‘ . Can I acquire to the phase, where at the terminal of my 2nd twelvemonth, I do non hold to measure myself so consciously, but instead that it becomes a wont? To be able to develop any survey accomplishment to the degree of ‘habit ‘ will necessitate a enormous sum of difficult work and dedication, it will besides demand a natural boundary ; my personal acquisition manner. Once I have an thought about how I learn, and in what conditions I learn best I will hold, in consequence, produced a model in which to concentrate the farther development of my survey accomplishments. Since the innovation of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging ( MRI ) machine in the 1980s the Fieldss of neuroscience and psychological science have progressively overlapped. In the last 20 old ages many scientists and psychologists have combined the consequences of MRI scans with psychological development theories to bring forth learning manners. In one study over 71 such typologies were identified ( Revell, 2005 ) . However controversial the outward visual aspect of a learning manner may be, there seems to be a common consensus that a individual develops best when their acquisition is structured and everyday. The dissensions begin over merely what the best modus operandi is, and how to learn within its model. Earlier in this assignment three typologies were focused on ; the Gregorc Style Delineator ( GSD ) ; the Dunn ‘s Visual, Auditory and Kinaesthetic theoretical account ( VAK ) ; and the Honey and Mumford Scale. Each of these theoretical accounts returned rather different consequences about my personal learning strengths and failings. Upon reading legion independent studies on these larning typologies it has been highlighted that they still require a monolithic sum of independent rating, and that without more conclusive grounds, they should non be entirely embraced and utilized. In one such study, my ain ideas about the GSD theoretical account were supported by statements like: â€Å" aˆÂ ¦the GSD is flawed in its constructionaˆÂ ¦ [ and ] does non hold equal psychometric belongingss for usage in single assessmentaˆÂ ¦ † or in mention to the VAK theoretical account an even more damnatory statement: â€Å" aˆÂ ¦this instrument is a psychometric disaster aˆÂ ¦ † ( Learning Skills and Development Agency, 2004 ) . However, despite the discouraging studies on both of these theoretical accounts, the Honey and Mumford Scale seems to follow with traditionally accepted and trusted educational teaching methods. The theory of constructivist larning developed from knowledge theory, and it describes larning as a construct which can be continuously built upon and developed ( Herne, Jessel and Griffiths, 2000 ) . There besides seems to be a close nexus between larning in this manner and utilizing both left and right hemispheres of the encephalon, the logical and Gestalt facets ( californium. Cottrell, 2000 ) , in unison to supply the scholar with the best opportunity at their topic. It has been suggested that if anterior cognition of a capable exists, so the scholar will make better in understanding it. Likewise, the more adept the leaner at utilizing both sides of the encephalon, the more memory pathways they have available to them when accessing a subject ( after Herne, Jessel and Griffiths, 2000 ) . T herefore, a much more effectual usage of the current acquisition typologies would be to utilize their political orientation as a usher, to detect which accomplishments and subskills I can develop and heighten to assist me go capable of both wide and balanced acquisition. This is something I will take to hold achieved by the terminal of my grade. To reason so, this assignment has shown the patterned advance I have made throughout the first academic twelvemonth. It opened with an analysis of the accomplishments present at the start of the class discoursing how, six months subsequently on, they had helped to develop more advanced survey accomplishments. This assignment so offered a brief account of how learning typologies can impact the development of survey accomplishments ; they define how a individual understands a subject and besides define the position the scholar has of himself, a position which is non ever good when trying to better survey accomplishments. By mixing the findings of all the typologies available I have been able to nail farther failings that can be worked on throughout my future old ages at University. I have greatly enjoyed the chance to return to reflect on my personal acquisition manner within the parametric quantity of a pronounced faculty. It has become clear to me, through the reading I have undertaken as portion of this class and the unfavorable judgment I have had returned through this faculty, that I have now become more cognizant of myself and how I express what I have learned to others. It has besides given me the opportunity to reflect upon a acquisition and development scheme which was imposed instead hurriedly in the first few months of a class ; when I was still comparatively diffident as to what was expected of me. Mike Metcalfe ( 2006 ) summarises this whole procedure neatly when he explains how: Philosophers, research workers and experient direction theoreticians seem to hold noticed that worlds, when faced with a job, leap to a probationary solution and so take to move to rationalize that speculation utilizing more critical thought such as observation, concluding and experimentation. ( Pg123 ) If this construct is applied to the attack I used to turn to this faculty it would explicate how the initial program proposed in November was adopted over the two semesters. The initial assignment was designed to enable me to develop and heighten failings in survey accomplishments. However, without giving much idea to my existent apprehension of how such failings related to my acquisition, it has non been until this contemplation, some six months subsequently, that I have been able to to the full understand the importance of how I learn and integrate a stronger nucleus of advantageous survey accomplishments. I am now confident that any future development of survey accomplishments will organize a lasting foundation for acquisition. Appendix One Appendix Two

Feminization of poverty. my title is tumbling in the dark or endless Essay

Feminization of poverty. my title is tumbling in the dark or endless pain - Essay Example This is nothing but feminization of poverty. This also requires us to analyze this fact under different circumstances. In a famous novel â€Å"The mairaculous of Amalia Gomez†, John Rechy describes the case study of feminization of women in a splendid and heart touching manner after getting inspired from a real incident of a Mexico-American woman (Rechy, 1991). Hence, an attempt has been made to study the feminization of poverty and to analyze the extent to which feminization of poverty is experienced by Amalia Gomez with the following thesis statements. 1. What is the definition of the "feminization of poverty" and how does it apply to Amalia Gomez'a life? 2. How does the "feminization of Poverty" lead the psychological mechanism of denial in Amalia? How do we see strong pull toward denial in her life? 3) How do we see a subconscious desire in Amalia to move from denial to "truth"? 4) What is Amalia"s epiphany? What does this epiphany say about her? Let us analyze one by one as follows: 1. What is the definition of the "feminization of poverty" and how does it apply to Amalia Gomez'a life? The feminization of poverty may be defined as the condition in which women experience higher level of poverty compared to that of men in several fields of our society (Fukuda-Parr, 1999). It is nothing but a state of being women that makes them poorer or susceptible to poverty compared to men in the same society. In other words, the feminization of poverty reflects a phenomenon in which women are represented disproportionately in terms of their percentage of total world poverty. For example, it was reported that the number of women at the age of 60 years in United States of America who are subjected to poverty was found to be significantly higher than the number of men at the same age. Even if in a developed nation like USA, if this position exists, it only confirms the fact that the female gender is proportionate with the extent of poverty which is other wise known a s feminization of poverty. The feminization of poverty is mainly caused by some factors like their social status, lower literacy rate and lower rate of employment. In several regions, women are subjected to ill treatment in various spheres of life. Their decision making at domestic and society level has been quite unsatisfactory resulting in their poverty. In several developing nations, the good proportion of women are restricted to domestic works and child care and they have little or no chance to earn their livelihood (Chant, 2006). Even in terms of wages, lot of disparity exists between the men and women reflecting the feminization of poverty. In a country like Cyprus, as high as 24 % gender pay gap was noticed reflecting a pathetic situation. Taking these constraints of women in consideration, some sections of people in the society started exploiting them which in turn led to feminization of poverty. The life of Amalia Gomez according to â€Å"The mairaculous of Amalia Gomezâ⠂¬ , by John Rechy depicts the same. Hence, the feminization of poverty can be well applied to the life of Amalia Gomez. Amalia Gomez is a Mexico-American lady who had tasted bitter experience of life due to poverty and exploitation of her by different people at different times. Several people including her ex-husbands tried to take the advantage of her weak financial position and she was compelled to listen to them due to her poverty and after

A streetcar named desire Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A streetcar named desire - Movie Review Example In fact, this led to stoppage of production for the older version that had been edited, since the film had been converted into two-television movie and an opera (McCarthy, 2011). There are efforts made by produces and movie studio aimed at making this film a blockbuster during the summer of 1949, thereby focused on Broadway production in month of December 1949 (McCarthy, 2011). Therefore, some of other cinematic changes made on the film were censorship approvals that led to the film becoming a failure and subject to artistic mockery. The other changes involved setting the first scene; for example in the original text, Blanche’s was nervously waiting for her to arrive, while in film her sister ventures down to bowling alley in order to find her sister (McCarthy, 2011). Therefore, these changes were a form of expanding the settings of the scene in a way that would increase viewers’ image regarding characters environment. Besides, this would also give the viewers glimpses in to characters lives, thereby avoiding perception that they are group of players. These changes were made in order to convert the play into a film through Motion Picture Production Code of time. On the other hand, there were other changes made in order to reduce the level of sexuality that had to be changed in order to facilitate approval of the film in regions dominated by a powerful Roman Catholic Church group and Legion of Decency in America (McCarthy, 2011). Apparently, these alterations were meant to impose business impact would lead to satisfaction. There were other changes made due to objections, for instance in 1993, there was a restoration of this film after changes were made on the original version in Legion that had been disbanded (McCarthy, 2011). There were other changes made in order to prevent certain characters such as Blanche, from portraying their frenetic nature of decency into maelstrom of madness. Furthermore, changes made on scene settings were aimed at increasing

Harlem Renaissance Poets Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 8

Harlem Renaissance Poets - Essay Example Therefore, Spencer sought focusing upon emotions displayed by people, especially women, concerning their racialist surroundings. Another poet whose works are recognizable during the Harlem Renaissance was Countee Cullen, also an African American. Countee Cullen assumed the role of echoing African Americans for the exemplary achievements they reached besides their skin differentiation (Williams, 2012). In a second light, Cullen also sensitized other writers’ against worsening the racial lift through their works. For instance, he explained that stressing about racial discrimination never ingrained joy to the Afro-Americans, but rather empowered the opponent race. The writers display feelings of wanting to belong on either of the racial extremes. Bethel’s poem talks about white things appearing as rare, which demonstrates that the poet accepts the notion that Americans hold superior rankings compared to the Africans. Though she holds African-American blood, Bethel appreciates the latter race. Besides, heritage also demonstrates double consciousness out of the way that Cullen asks about the meaning of Africa. For instance, Cullen seems to despise his roots by talking of him having cropped by loins of black females. In addition, the mention of barbaric birds that voice their melodies in the African continent shows that Cullen fully disregards African origin. Cullen points at having dark blood constituted within him shows that the poet appears confused about his identity and gets confused of his outward white skin (Williams, 2012). This is further noticeable when Cullen talks about a tree forgetting of its budding and past times, which ex presses that he despises his African descent and embraces the American one. Therefore, these poets appear indifferent of their origins and still believe that the white race appears superior. The Harlem Poems

Financial Analysis of Capital Structure Term Paper

Financial Analysis of Capital Structure - Term Paper Example The decision regarding finding the optimum mix of equity and debt capital depends on capital spending, expected returns, optimum levels of debt, liquidity, cash levels, interest rates and risks, and dividend policy (Mallicoat, 2011). The following is a snapshot of the possible Capital Structures that Competition Bikes Inc. could acquire while expanding to Canada. The following were the alternatives available while choosing the right Capital Structure mix: 1. Capital Structure consisting only of bonds 2. A capital structure consisting of only stocks, with 50% preferred and 50% Common Stock 3. With 20% bonds and 80% common stock 4. Capital Structure consisting of bonds of 40% and Common Stock 60% EPS (Earning Per Share) is the portion of company’s profit that is allocated to each share of the common stock. It is the most important measure or figure for any shareholder. However, we would analyze the capital structure not only according to the EPS but also analyze the risk inheren t in the capital structure. The first alternative of the capital structure comprising only of bonds would allow the company to borrow capital at an interest rate that is lower than the interest rate for other types of borrowing. Bonds are written promises to pay back specific amount at a certain date and some interest payments at specific rates. They are pretty similar to the conventional loans with a few perks. Debt financing is favorable than equity financing as interest expense is tax deductible. However, one problem with this form of capital structure is that it is more risky as corporations are required to make interest payment even when they are not making profits making them vulnerable to bankruptcy and solvency (Brown, 2006). The EPS of this capital structure is also lowest at -0.042 under the current scenario. Hence, having the capital structure completely rely on bonds is a very risky option, specifically for Competition Bikes Inc. when they are expanding and exploring new opportunities. The second alternative is of 50% preferred stock and 50% common stock. Preferred stock offer dividend incentive to the shareholder as they are second in line to be paid after the bond holders when a company is facing a loss making them more risky than the common stock. Common stocks are favorable for companies with good financial health. However, the risk of losing ownership is inherent in common stocks as stock holders have the right to elect the board of directors. Moreover, equity financing is more expensive than debt financing and it is not feasible for a capital structure to be totally based on it (Other ways of raising capital – stocks and bonds, 2011). Therefore, the Capital Structure must include both debt and equity financing. All the third, fourth and fifth alternatives are mix of equity and debt financing. We need to find the right kind of mix between equity and debt. As debt is more risky and equity is more expensive and the objective of the compan y’s capital structure is to maximize shareholder return, we can decide on the basis of Earning per Share (EPS). EPS is the earning of each outstanding share. An important aspect of EPS is the capital required to generate the income used in the calculation of EPS. As all our Capital Structure alternatives use the same amount of capital, we can decide on the basic of the highest value of EPS while keeping the risk factor under check. Since Competition Bikes Inc. is expanding in Canada, they need time before they can start making large

My History about a Guard in the Mall Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

My History about a Guard in the Mall - Essay Example The guard looked like part of the furniture by virtue of his immobility. He was an inch or two shies of six feet and had a ruddy face. However, I could only see an outline of his nose and chin as he was not facing my direction. He had which I thought contrasted to his military style hair cut. On his head, he had blond crossly cropped like soldiers would be. He had on a well-starched blue short sleeved shirt and a pair of pants made of the same material. He had regulation boots, but it was the way he positioned his feet that made my neck snap up from my examination. From where I sat, I could tell his right shoe was clearly more buffed than the right one. I tried to play Sherlock Holmes and looked to see if he held his baton with his left hand. He did his holster was on the same side, so I concluded he was right-handed. He lifted up his face to examine something in the distance somewhere across the door his eyes were blue, and he had exceptionally busy eyebrows, which were not quite as brown as his hair. His eyes had a faraway look like a sailor trying to spy a distance inland from the deep sea. I wondered if he had been in the navy, and he seemed to be staring at a point far in the horizon even in an enclosed mall where there was not much of a horizon. His hands, which had shifted the baton to a peg on his belt, they were big pinkish callused hands which could have seen hard labor in the past. The fingernails on his left hand looked like they had been chewed on rather on rather than clipped. He stood with his feet apart, and this seemed to give him an element of stability as well as size. When he stood there, with his feet aside his hands constantly felt at his pockets area.  

World History Paper 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

World History Paper 1 - Essay Example In this respect, these cultures believed that disobeying the laws of the Lord would result to punishment. According to the First Book of Moses, called Genesis2it is written that from the start Adam and Eve were punished by God for eating fruit from the forbidden tree. This clarifies that disobedience of God’s laws and commands has serious repercussions to the society. Further, the book cites that the Hebrews and Mesopotamians were expected to live a life without sin. Sins and wickedness caused the people to lose favor with God just as it is written about the time of Noah. The people in the era of Noah sinned greatly against God and he had to destroy the entire world. Noah and his family together with the animals in the world were saved because he was the only person devoid of sin3. God’s curse was a concern for the Hebrews because it meant that the person would have to die. The laws and codes of the Hebrews declared that God would place a curse against people who wronged prophets ordained by God. They were expected to listen to the words of God’s messengers else, they had to suffer the curse. For instance, the First Book of Moses, called Genesis speaks of king Pharaoh who stole the wife of Abraham and God sent a curse inform of plague into his household. The Hebrews and Mesopotamians were also concerned about the worship ofidol gods. God had forbidden the worship of idols and required all the people to worship him alone. In the same manner, they had to deter from mentioning the name of God in vain since it is a way of ignorance of his words. This requires people to worship the Lord but not joke in his name for punishment would be placed upon them. These ancient communities were not expected to kill, steal, or commit acts of adultery within the society. Such grave sins were punishable through death and God’s anger would be upon those that disobeyed his commands. In addition, the Hebrew and Mesopotamian people were expected to respect each other and not

Critical apprisal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Critical apprisal - Essay Example Implementation of different visuals in the process of learning is very much important and every learner should try hard and deal with the challenges of the contexts and plots of video films and video clips shown to them during their lessons. It is not very easy for a teacher to find the most attractive and interesting plot of the film or a video clip, which will be comprehensible for the students’ audience and would trigger their further discussion and critical thinking. Visuals in Learning Visual tools play a significant role in education environment. Visual materials support oral and written information given to the students in the classroom. Visual aids help both students and educators to organize information in a better way. Interactive experience created with the help of visuals reaches students with a broad range of abilities and types of information perception. Canning Wilson (2001) points out that visual materials are essential in the provision of content samples of a foreign language, which improves the comprehension of the audience. Visuals include various types of materials, such as videos, pictures, posters, charts, and slides. The main tool in a classroom work with any language is a textbook. Textbooks provide well-structured and pre-determined information which is essential to build up a lesson workflow. However, successful language practice would be impossible without supplementing materials that help teacher create a socio-cultural context, which is necessary to help students penetrate into foreign culture, enrich the classroom environment and help the audience experience real-life situations. With the help of visual tools, teachers provide examples of lifestyle and behavior in the country of a target language. Practicing real-life use of a language would be impossible without creating contextualized situations that visual tools help to build. Visuals work effectively for students who have different levels of language proficiency because visual aids stimulate imagination and interest in the foreign culture and language. A lot of practices and methods in foreign language learning may be supported by visual materials. Some points that are difficult for understanding can be simplified with the help of visuals. The first article by Xiaoning (2007) â€Å"On the Use of Video Clips in College English Teaching/utilisation du videoclip dans l'enseignement de l'anglais universtaire† is devoted to the strategies and tactics of video clips implementation in the process of the English language learning as a second language. The author talks about implementation of both video clips and video films in the learning process. Films and clips in the original language (English) can attract the students’ attention and be effective in their learning process (Michigan State University Center for Language Education and Research (CLEAR), 2007). Moreover, it should be noted that visual media, such as multimedia equipment, and a teacher’s desire to deal with innovations and challenges in the learning process are necessary conditions for a potential success of this type of learning approach. There are some multimedia course wares, which are available for the students together with their course

National identity Essay Example for Free

National identity Essay Critically assess the relationship between national identity and schooling in the period 1870-1939? The relationship between national identity and schooling is one that has been seen as both a problem, where by the integrating of the concept of national identity into schooling is seen as the poison that generates cross-national conflict (1) and a defensive reaction to preventing and dealing with the problems that Britain faced during that epoch, where the political and social environment in Europe provided a sort of hothouse atmosphere for nationalistic writings of the most fervent kind(2) Dr Tate outlined in brief that national identities depended on stories and that teachers need to provide children with a sense of belonging to a community which stretches back into the past and forward into the future in order to five them a sense of meaning' (3) The idea of creating a sense of belonging for children, is one that is shared worldwide, humans I have been told, need narratives, however the use of national identities here is used in a positive and discreet in content manner. I wonder what concepts does Dr Tate associate with national identities, and what aspects of the past and future should children be informed about? To answer the question given I will look deeply into, the relationship between national identity and schooling, ways of introducing national identity in schooling, threat abroad and at home, the effects, the problems and questions raised by the idea of national identity in schooling. I will begin by introducing some of the important Legislations and Codes introduced by the government as these reflect the concern of the day, and play an important role in schooling, and national identity. The revised code of 1862 introduced a new concern arising over the education attained in schools, and thus the payment by results system was introduced, and teachers were paid for those that achieved results. The importance of this central part of legislation was that it governed the activities precipitated in schools. These school codes were issued by the government to dictate what should be taught in schools and at what level for what age. Attendance and a uniformed standard of education were central to what the government sought to achieve in this legislation. This piece of legislation was hated so much by the teachers, and thus it was attacked by masses of teachers thus was withdrawn in 1898. The New Code of 1871 awarded 40 hour drills per year via grant aid. The drills were seen as a form of implementing the importance of obedience into the children. The importance of obedience was seen as vital to the social stability of the school. Reference: 1. (W.E.Marsden, Nationalism, propaganda and war and peace, pg29-47) 2. (P.M.Kennedy, The decline of nationalistic history in the west, 1900-1970, Journal of Contemporary History, 8 (1973)88.) 3. (History today, History and national identity in the classroom, pg 6) 4. (Theres no place like home, Education of History 28, pg 236-237) 5. (1 Mass Observation Archive FR878) 6. (J.Bourke, Working-Class Cultures in Britain, 1890-1960. Gender, Class and Ethnicity (London: Routledge, 1994), 186) 7. (A.D.Smith, National Identity, London, 1991, p.9-11) 8. (J.M.Mackenzie, Propaganda and Empire. The manipulation of British Public Opinion, 1880-1960 Manchester: Manchester University Press, 1984), 176.see k.

Why Marriage Matters Essay Example for Free

Why Marriage Matters Essay Marriage matters. If marriage did not matter, would it even be considered when growing up? Today, I feel that the word â€Å"marriage† is often misunderstood, and that’s why I am intrigued by any research that has been done on this topic. Like most, I believed that the divorce rate was skyrocketing. However, as I was going through my Marriage and Family book, I quickly began to realize that marriage has survived through it all due to its importance. According to the report I chose, â€Å"Why Marriage Matters,† in the later half of the twentieth century, divorce posed the biggest threat to marriage and was the event most likely to undercut the quality and stability of children’s family lives in the United States. Since, then divorce rates have come down and children who are now born to married couples are actually more likely to grow up with both of their parents than were children born at the height of the divorce revolution. Today, cohabitation has emerged as a powerful alternative to and competitor with marriage but also has become an unrecognized threat to the quality and stability of children’s family lives. Today’s children are also more likely to spend time in a cohabiting household than they are to see their parents’ divorce. About a fourth of children are born to cohabiting couples than to single mothers. This report focuses on the impact that cohabitation is having on marriage, family life, and the welfare of children. Children and health are two of the most important aspects of life. According to research, the structure of a family is the most important thing when considering the health of your child. Children in cohabiting households do significantly worse than children than children in intact, married families and about as poorly as children living in single-parent homes. Also, children in cohabiting homes are more likely to be physically, sexually, and emotionally abused according to recent federal data. American life is becoming increasingly unstable for children. Multiple transitions are especially linked to higher reports of school failure, behavioral problems, and drug use among many other problems. It is not just the structure of a family that matters it is the stability as well. One of the biggest reasons that children’s lives are increasingly turbulent is that cohabitation households are much more fragile than married families. â€Å"Complex households,† where parents have children with more than one partner, have shown that the children whom come from these relationships will have poor relationships with their parents and can sometimes lead to health and behavioral problems. When it comes to a child’s wellbeing, research suggests that family structure is a better predictor of children’s psychological and social welfare.

Analysis of American Protest Literature

Analysis of American Protest Literature The protest literature of early to mid-19th century America shares a common theme of moral values. Both Henry David Thoreau and William Apess speak of a moral code that humanity is bound to uphold. Although they addressed it in different ways and proposed different solutions, they ask a similar question: is America truly the great land of principle that it claims to be. The essay The Resistance to Civil Government was based on a series of lectures Thoreau gave in 1848 and was published in 1849. In it he discussed the shared responsibilities and duties of citizens and their governments. While his thoughts stand alone as a philosophical position, it is important to understand the historical context. Texas gained its independence from Mexico in 1836. The United States did not immediately incorporate the territory into the Union because of the ongoing political battle over the expansion of slavery, however, on December 29, 1845, Texas entered the United States as a slave state. Thoreau was an outspoken abolitionist, as made clear in other of his writings, and was adamantly opposed paying taxes which supported a government that upheld unjust and immoral policies. He based his decision not to comply on the belief that there is a law higher than civil law that demands the obedience of the individual. Thoreau opened Civil Disobedience with the maxim That government is best which governs least, (p 843) and he speaks in favor of government that does not intrude upon peoples lives. Government, he believed, was a means of attaining an end that existed only because the people chose it to execute their will. Government, however, was susceptible to misuse, corruption, and injustice. When injustice became extreme, such as by allowing slavery, individuals had both the right and duty to rebel against the State through a variety of means such as refusing to pay taxes. Thoreau did not advocate the dissolution of government. Rather, he called for a better government (p 844), one which was limited to decide those issues that it was fitted to consider. Thoreau underscored the power of the individual to effect reform. Reform, he believed, came only through the individual, and moral issues were the individuals concern. It is not desirable to cultivate a respect for the law' he said, so much as for the right. The individuals obligation was to do at any time what [he thinks] right (p 844). He enjoined his audience to wake up and to refuse to be machines that served the State with their bodies or minds. Good people, he contended, must serve the State with their consciences and resist it when its policies and actions conflict with their consciences. Through this duty to resist, Thoreau introduced the concept of civil disobedience, tying to the birth of the nation through revolution. Merely expressing opposition to slavery was meaningless. Only action what people did about their objection mattered. Wrongs could be redressed only by the individual, not through the government since the mechanisms of change provided by the State were too slow or were ineffective. He acknowledged that in practical application a single person might not be able to affect widespread change, however, a person must at least not be guilty of supporting injustice through compliance. Individuals must not support a government whose policies are unjust. Talk is cheap; action is immediate. People must act with principle and must break the law if necessary. Such action, however, comes with a price. People must be willing to bear the consequences of their actions. When the man of conscience acted in variance with the state, he might be punished by force. This f orce could be against his property, his family, or his person. Because of this potential loss, Thoreau believed it was impossible for a person of conscience to live honestly and at the same time comfortably (p 851). However, these penalties cost people of conscience less than the price they would pay in obeying the State. Therefore, it falls to the State to respect the higher and independent power of the individual since it is only through this that it derives its authority (p 857). The writings of William Apess are also protest literature and, like those of Thoreau, are better understood through their historical context. In 1830, the government passed the Indian Removal Act which authorized the removal of Indians from the lands east of the Mississippi to Indian Territory and other areas considered suitable. In essence, this act spelled the end of Indian rights to live in those states under their own traditional laws. They were given a choice: assimilate and concede to US law or leave their homelands. The Act was based on the white-written history of interactions between Native Americans and European settlers; a history rife with horrific stories and only the occasional act of kindness. Apess was bi-, or perhaps multi-, racial. Because he was primarily raised by whites, he grew up with stories of the Indians cruelty. As he grew he learned of the competing truth of the whites cruelty toward the Indians. He converted to Christianity early in his life and ultimately was ordained as a Methodist minister. His faith was integral to his ability to affirm himself as a Pequot and as a person of color, and in Christianity he found both hope and a philosophical framework from which to challenge racial bigotry. The central theme of An Indians Looking Glass for the White Man was the failure of white people to recognize the irony and hypocrisy of denying Native Americans, who they considered to be heathens, the self-evident rights guaranteed to all men by the Declaration of Independence, and their un-Christian treatment of them. As the title indicates, his words were directed to a white audience. According to Apess, materially well-off whites were not superior to the Indians from either a religious or moral perspective because they were unprincipled in their dealings with people of a different skin color. He liberally used the word principle, or some variant thereof, for the purpose of establishing the unprincipled actions of white men in regard to red men. What if, he asked, all the worlds different skins were put together, and each skin had its national crimes written upon it-which skin do you think would have the greatest? (p 501). Apess outrage at the mistreatment of Indians extended to the mistreatment of blacks. His charge against the white citizens of the United States was not only that they had robbed a nation almost of their whole continent, and murder[ed] their women and children, but that they had also subjugated another nation to till their ground and welter out their days under the lash (p 501). He used the word black to metaphorically describe the Christian morals and principles that were corrupted by the aversion to colored skins.   If black or red skins or any other skin of color were disgraceful in Gods eye, he said, it appears that he has disgraced himself a great deal-for he has made fifteen colored people to one white and placed them here upon this earth (p 501). He went even further and implied that Jesus, himself, had been a person of color. Apess implored the American people to think for themselves and act upon the morals that they held dear. As a minister he was able to incorporate quotes from the Bible in support of his position.   He used every detail he could to present the moral contradictions in American policy and used the philosophical underpinnings of America to support his argument against them. He concluded with a blistering indictment of bigotry directed at his audience: By what you read, you may learn how deep your principles are. I should say they were skin deep (p 504), yet he maintained hope due to the actions of those who spoke out against mistreatment. Thoreaus The Resistance to Civil Government and Apess An Indians Looking Glass for the White Man can be seen as protests against a government that had failed to live up to its stated ideals and failed to protect the rights of its people. Both call upon the moral conscience to bring an end to injustice; both appeal to the founding principles of the nation; both call people to action. Question 7: Literature speaks truths about the past to which history cannot give voice. The writings of Pontiac, William Apess, and James Fenimore Cooper all express the concerns of native Americans, but through different perspectives. Cooper attempts to portray the Native Americans as honorable, albeit stereotypical, savages, Pontiac laments the destruction of traditional Indian culture, and Apess condemns the hypocrisy and bigotry of white society. Within all these writings are both overlapping and unique concerns that give voice to the challenges faced by a culture forced to change. James Fenimore Coopers The Last of the Mohicans, subtitled A Narrative of 1757, was published in 1826, however it harkens back to an earlier period of American expansion.   By the time it was written the prevailing view was that humans were divided into distinct races and that some races were inferior to others. Indians (savages) were fated to vanish before the superior (civilized) white men, and there was no changing fate.   Cooper sought to promote a true understanding of ethnological problems in a rapidly changing America.   His prose was infused with a belief that shared humanity could be communicated across cultural and linguistic differences and could dispel the idea of the unknowable otherness that promoted fear and justified exploitation. Hawk-eye and Chingachgook were depicted as individuals who displayed, through their friendship, the ideal of human relationships between Native and European Americans. Cooper embraced the concept of the noble savage, but at the same time he also promulgated racial stereotypes. In his description of Chingachgook he noted that, His body, which was nearly naked, presented a terrific emblem of deathà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (p 486). Coopers attitudes toward race were complicated even for his time. He was, after all, a white man and his characters reflected an obsession with systems of classification by which race was distinguished from race, nation from nation, and tribe from tribe. Hawk-eye and Chingachgook are both concerned with racial purity. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the worst enemy I have on earthà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ darent deny that I am genuine white, declared Hawk-eye (p 487). They respected each other and could work together, but both rejected the idea of interracial marriage. Hawk-eye frequently displayed his superior knowledge, as when he presented Chingachgook as ignorant because he did not understand about tides. Drawn in this way, their partnership did not threaten the racial status quo. From an historical perspective, this story was set during the French and Indian War (1754-60), a proxy war which pitted the British Empire, its American colonies, and their Indian allies against the French Empire, its Canadian colonies, and their Indian allies. It was the North American theater of a much broader international conflict known as the Seven Years War. The Treaty of Paris that ended the French and Indian War led to a flood of English settlers moving across the Alleghenies into Indian territory. The French had gained the loyalty of their Native American allies by providing them with ammunition and supplies. The Indians viewed the French as tenants on their land who had provided gunpowder, rum, and other goods as a type of rent. The British, on the other hand, believed themselves to be governed by international law and felt no obligation to the regions original inhabitants. Native Americans were not members of the family of nations and had no more rights than the animals th ey hunted. They were no longer welcome at the forts and intermarriage was discouraged. From the Indian viewpoint, the lack of support and disrespect were a breach of protocol and an insult to the Indian nations and their leaders. American Indian resistance began to grow. Pontiac was an Ottawa Indian chief who had been very successful in protecting his land and his people. During the   French and Indian War, Pontiac was an ally of the French. The changes brought by the British victory did not sit well with Chief   Pontiac. On April 27, 1763, a council gathering was held near Detroit. Pontiac gave a speech in which he recounted the indignities that the Indians had suffered at the hands of the British. He believed that his people needed return to the customs and weapons of their ancestors, throw away the implements they had acquired from the white man, abstain from whiskey, and take up the hatchet against the British. He realized that in adopting the white mens customs and in using their food, blankets, and weapons, his people had become dependent upon them. He remembered the stories, heard in childhood, of the might of the Ottawas in the days when they lived according to the old customs and longed for a return to the traditional ways. Pontiac was strongly influenced by the story of Neolin. Neolin was a respected visionary and spiritual leader of   the Delaware people.   Pontiac also understood the power that story telling had in his culture. Stories were guides that taught them how to act and live their lives. He used the story of Neolins encounter with The Great Spirit in order to convince the leaders of the neighboring tribes to join him in a rebellion.   He reminded them of what the Great Spirit said to Neolin: The land on which you live I have made for you, and not for others. Why do you suffer the white man to live among you? (p 223) The Great Spirit then instructed Neolin to Fling all these things away; live as your wise forefathers lived before you. And as for these English, these dogs dressed in red who have come to rob you of your hunting grounds, and drive away the game,- you must lift the hatchet against them. Wipe them from the face of the earth, and then you will win my favor bac k again, and once more be happy and prosperous (p 224) William Apess approach was different and can be best characterized as embracing the goal of nation-building. His work documented many past injustices endured by Native Americans and lamented the state of their current life in and around Connecticut and Massachusetts. During this period, the relationship between Native Americans and the dominant white culture was viewed as a struggle between assimilation and cultural tradition.   Apess revealed how false this dichotomy was. His was an authentic voice arising from the personal experience of his bi-racial identity. Instead of the either/or of cultural tradition or assimilation, Apess sought to promote affiliation. With the authority granted to an ordained Methodist minister, Apess relied upon religious engagement as a means to bring to light the hypocrisy of thePilgrims who would fight to destroy any perceived threat to their land or livelihood, but would not grant this same right to Native Americans. In doing so he also demonstrated the Native Americans capacity to affiliate themselves with Christian values. God, he said, will show no favor to outward appearances but will judge righteousness (p 499). Apess was the antithesis of the Christian nationalist. Growing up he described how was terrified of his own people because his white caretakers told him stereotypical stories about Indian cruelty but never told him how cruelly they treated Indians. This past that they embraced was sacred to them; to him it was a degrading myth. They used their position   to build churches, dispatch missionaries, and educate the people they deemed savages; to him their authority was morally bankrupt. Apess challenged people to live up to the stated values of their government and their church. If they talked the talk then they also had to walk the walk. To profess a belief in liberty and justice for all or the equality of all Gods children was not enough. People needed to act in accordance with their beliefs. If they failed to do so then they were hypocrites. Native Americans faced a variety of concern in the early to mid-19th century. They faced the loss of their traditional homeland, the dissolution of their cultural heritage, and the very real consequences of institutionalized bigotry. What can be seen in the speech by Pontiac and the writings of James Fenimore Cooper and William Apess is the complexity of the cultural forces at work at that time. The portrayal of the savage or contemptible Indian was as much a creation of the white man as was the civilized, and Christianized Indian, who was created in the white mans image. Native Americans were unique and complex individuals with the same needs and longings as any other people.

Discuss How Carol Ann Duffy Makes Effective Use Of Metaphor. Essay

Discuss How Carol Ann Duffy Makes Effective Use Of Metaphor. In ‘Valentine’, Carol Ann Duffy uses metaphors to illustrate and attempt to explain the complex subject of love. ‘Valentine’ is a very poignant, meaningful poem which is on a very personal level with C.A.D. It seems as if she is drawing on personal experiences. The general tone of the poem appears to be one of bitterness and resentment. Forceful comments such as, ‘†¦Here..’ and ‘†¦Take it†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ suggest that she still holds hidden anger towards the events from which she is drawing her memories. The main metaphor that she uses is of course an onion. She uses an onion to compare the different aspects of love in a number of ways. In the first instance of C.A.D’s use of an onion she uses it to compare the fact that both an onion and love have many layers. She proposes that this is a huge similarity between the two apparently unrelated objects. Secondly, C.A.D uses the onion’s shape and colour to reflect how life changing love can be. She describes the onion as ‘†¦a moon wrapped in brown paper†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ What she means by this is that love can light up your heart but that it often becomes clouded by other issues and problems- the brown paper symbolizes the ‘barrier’. In another way, the brown paper could symbolize boundaries people sometimes erect because they are scared or cynical. C.A.D. seems to be cynical about love-all throughout the poem she seems to want to escape the clichà ©s and what most people would consider as romance. Perhaps this may be because she has had a bad experience of love which she has then illustrated through words in her poem. Just after this she states ‘†¦it promises light..’ which means that C.A.D is suggesting that sometimes a... ...reak. In the final stanza, C.A.D writes, ‘†¦the air tasted of electricity..’ She is referring to the charged atmosphere caused by adolescent hormones. Obviously the classroom is going to be full of hormones because of all the children. Another reference to the heavily charged atmosphere is, ‘†¦the heavy, sexy sky..’ which just supports the atmosphere being hormonally charged. Carol Ann Duffy’s use of metaphors is very effective and illustrative-it causes readers to form subconscious links between objects which in reality are apparently unrelated. Without the use of metaphors, her poems would be entirely different and I am not sure they would be as flowing or as descriptive. The metaphors are often the basis upon which C.A.D’s descriptions are built. She uses them to great effect by blending and layering metaphors with other adjectives and descriptions.

Neil Young In Halifax :: Free Essay Writer

Neil Young in Halifax   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I was getting ready for school one morning when my father said that my cousin Jennifer was on the phone and she wanted to know if I wanted a ticket to the Neil Young concert coming up in Halifax. I said I did and I kind of forgot about it.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It was Halloween night and I was listening to an old Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young album when I looked at the release date when I realized that in a mere five days I was going to witness a legend in his finest form. Some say the Neil Young is playing the finest guitar of his life these days. Some people say that he's just an old man who can't sing, never could sing and should have retired a long time ago. I on the other hand see him differently. He is man who doesn't care about his appearance, doesn't care about what other people think about him. He is an entertainer. He is a healer. He is a Canadian. He is a man. When I picture myself at fifty I picture myself like him. We left for the concert on Tuesday morning and we arrived in the city at about noon. My uncle drove me and my cousin Edward up. We bummed around the city for a while and then we went to Jen's place where we were staying. There were a few other people from Inverness staying there as well. My uncle, Edward and I left for the concert at around quarter to seven. We kind of got lost. We got to the show at around seven thirty. While we were in line waiting to get in I could here the band that was performing. It was then that I realized what I was about to experience. I stumbled to my seat, half looking a my feet, half looking at the band on stage. I can't remember their name but they were good. As soon as we sat down the band ended their set and the lights came on. Then we just sat their for a while and I saw a lot of people that I knew from Mabou.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The lights went out and the place started to rumble with excitement. Moist came out on stage and started playing their set. When the band started to play Push I ran down to the front along with just about everyone else. But we were pushed back by the security. So we just sat in our seats for the rest of their set. The lights came back on and their were a bunch of guys on stage who were

The Life Of Emily Dickinson Essay -- essays research papers

The Life of Emily Dickinson   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although she lived a seemingly secluded life, Emily Dickinson's many encounters with death influenced many of her poems and letters. Perhaps one of the most ground breaking and inventive poets in American history, Dickinson has become as well known for her bizarre and eccentric life as for her incredible poems and letters. Numbering over 1,700, her poems highlight the many moments in a 19th century New Englander woman's life, including the deaths of some of her most beloved friends and family, most of which occurred in a short period of time (Benfey 6-25).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Several biographers of Dickinson point out her methods of exploring several topics in â€Å"circumference,† as she says in her own words. Death is perhaps one of the best examples of this exploration and examination. Other than one trip to Washington and Philadelphia, several excursions to Boston to see a doctor, and a few short years in school, Emily never left her home town of Amherst, Massachusetts. In the latter part of her life she rarely left her large brick house, and communicated even to her beloved sister through a door rarely left â€Å"slightly ajar.† This seclusion gave her a reputation for eccentricity to the local towns people, and perhaps increased her interest in death (Whicher 26).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dressing in white every day Dickinson was know in Amherst as, â€Å"the New England mystic,† by some. Her only contact to h...

Interest Groups Essay

Introduction As we all know there are types of groups that are playing important role in the administration in the mechanism of government especially in terms of decision making or legislative body. These groups are known as Interest Groups and Pressure Groups. Basically interest group is defined as any collection of people organized to promote a goal they share or to resist some objective of the government of other groups. It is also defined as an organized group that tries to influence the government decisions without putting their members in governmental position. While pressure group is an interest group that exercises pressure on the government to obtain laws, policies & decisions compatible with their special interests. Basically pressure group is an interest group with higher degree of involvement in politics. In Malaysia, there are various types of interest groups in order to obtain the rights for what they represent. Interest groups in Malaysia such National Union for Teaching Profession (NUTP), The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (CUEPACS), Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) aggregates and articulate information regarding to their respective interest in order to influence the government decision based on their interests. However, there are disadvantages for the existence of interest groups. This will be the main idea of this assignment. Simplified Characteristics of Interest Groups Simplified Functions of Interests Groups 1. Mechanism for Political Representation- The interests of the people are represented in an organized way. It means that the people doesn’t have to directly go to the government but instead have interest groups to represent for them as the groups are established. It allows people to be involved in political process without being in a politica party for examples the NUTP, FOMCA and CUEPACS 2. Mediator between the Public and the Government- This is a linkage function between the people and the government. The interest groups provide necessary informations needed by both the people and the government 3. Interest Articulation (voice out the interests)- They voice out interests based on their interest groups and also voice out any interest of the public that is related to their interests 4. Influence the Government- This is the main function of the interest group. They influence the decisions but have no intention to take over the government and makes sure that the government focu ses on their interests. 5. Supplement Government Agencies(assist,enhance,help)- Conduct surveys and research to provide information to the government which the results will help government to adopt better public policies. Types of Interest Groups 1. Anomic Group- separates from social norms, spontaneous (informal), often involves violence 2. Associational Group- formal, distinct and established, effective procedures, active participants in political process. 3. Non- Associational Group- not formal, has similar characteristics & interests, reflect social/ethnic/cultural/religious interests 4. Institutional Group- exists within the government, highly involved in political & social activities, lobby from within the government. Simplified Methods of Gaining Influence The Demerits or The Disadvantages of Interest Groups * There are various demerits of interests group if it is not well managed and observed. 1. Some of the methods used to gain influence can lead to negative effects -Methods like Bargaining can lead to bad effects because it is similar to lobbying whereby the public policy is influenced directly. It also invloves secret negotiations which is usually related to the national budget. When this happens and if not observed carefully, the allocation of the money can be wrongfully distributed. If it happens, the interest groups may misuse the allocation given and the people they represented MAY NOT be included or the money won’t be used for the better of the people they represent. -Another risky method is the method Propaganda. In propaganda the usage of mass media and other methods to spread information to the public is on a massive scale. If the information or awareness spread by the interest group is false or with hidden agenda, it may cause the people to be wrongly influenced or mi ssunderstanding of the government policy. The people may retaliate for no legitimate reason which may cause damage to a peaceful nation. -Other than that, other methods like direct method like boycotts, demonstrations and strikes may cause commotion. This types of influencing methods are prone to be violent regardless of which party initiate violence first. -Indirect methods like being a member of parliament which is also a member of interest group may misuse his/her power in order to influence the governmernt decision. The member of interest group is a spouse to a bureaucrat may also lead to the misuse of power in order to influence the government decision. For example if a bureaucrat has a wife who is in an interest group, the potential of the husband to listen to every request to his wife relating to her interest group is very high. Not only that, it can be a bad thing too if a retired bureaucrats who join NGO or other groups that have connection with junior bureaucrats whereby t he juniors may listen to every request of their seniors. The juniors may provide confidential information of government policies to the retired bureaucrats. -Methods like illegalities may also be used especially in desperate times. Illegalities ranges from extortions, bribery, arson, blackmail and many more. 2. The existence of certain types of interest groups can produce adverse effects. -The existence of an interest groups like Anomic Groups which derived from the word Anomie meaning separation from social norms. This group is not a formal group. Usually it comes from dissatisfaction of the people. When this happens, it usually involves violence. This type of group may produce protests, racial riots and so on in order for their interest to be prioritized. 3. Biased -Interest groups can be considered biased because they are only prioritizing their interest or interests related to them. They do not really care about other interest of the people as a whole and care about better policy for the people genereally. They just prioritize their interests. Information provided is one-sided. 4. One Track-Mind (Runs Undemocratically) -The interests groups usually do not care about others interest and opininons. They also refuse to listen or to take care of other interest. They consider other interests or opinions are wrong. They do not let what others have to say or wants if it is contradict to their core interests. 5. Pluralism (as in United States) -Critics of pluralism contend that there is no such thing as the common good because there are so many conflicting interests in society: What is good for one person is often bad for others. They argue that the interest groups interfere with democracy because they seek benefits for a minority of people rather than the greater good of the majority. The National Rifle Association, for example, has repeatedly blocked new gun control legislation despite the fact that a majority of Americans actually want stricter gun laws. Other critics argue that the interest group system is really effective only to economic interest groups, which have greater financial resources at their disposal. Nearly two-thirds of lobbyists in Washington represent economic groups. Critics also argue that interest groups tend to ignore the interests of the poor in favor of middle- and upper-class Americans, who have more time and money to contribute 6. Corruption -Corruption takes place in the interest groups whereby the bribery is done between the interest groups and the interest provider (policy makers/government). In corruption, the bribery can be in many forms such as gifts and money. The bribery is performed in order for their interests being implemented. The irresponsible authority personnels will accept the bribery and in return the interest of the interests groups will be prioritized. 7. Influenced by wealth -This can be explained by the more money or fund the interest groups has, the more tendency of their interests being prioritized is higher. Conclusion Interest group is basically an organized group of people that tries to influence the government without being in the governmental positions. Various methods can be or are being used in order for their main objective which is to influence the government in order to get their interests priotized. But, there are negative side which is the demerits to the interests groups. Bottomline is, interest groups has it own merits and demerits in order for it to function as an interest group. The demerits can be abolished with proper procedures and proper preventive measures. If not the interest groups may be useless. Resources 1. 90% of this content is studied, aggregate and filtered from the notes made by Sir Fairuz Hidayat PAD170 Chapter 6 notes. 2. Another 10% is scouted, filtered, studied from the internet. 3. http://www.sparknotes.com/us-government-and-politics/american-government/interest-groups/section5.rhtml 4. http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110412030051AAPzyYE 5. https://www.google.com/#q=disadvantages+of+interest+groups

Review of the Book: Evangelical Theology Essay

Held in high esteem by many critics as one of the most original Christian thinkers of the modern era, Karl Barth was a Swiss theologian who primarily emphasized on the sovereignty of God. In this regard, his perspectives can be considered as external. This secularism in the study of gods and religion was very inventive in terms of genuineness. Barth’s famous book Evangelical Theology: An Introduction is based on continuity and unity, and looks into the constructs of faith, existence and reason. This essay is going to deal with few of the core ideas Barth introduced in his book. The concepts will be critically analyzed with regards to citations from the original text. According to Barth, the term ‘Theology’ is concerned with a very special domain of science that attempts to understand god. Evangelical Theory of Theology: An Introduction gives a basic idea of Barth’s outlooks on theology. Theology as described by the author is the Word of god. ‘Theo’ popularly alludes to gift of god and ‘logy’ relates to language, logic or Word. According to the author, the word of god is the ultimate soul of theology and it stands and fails with it. â€Å"Theology itself is a word, a human response; yet what makes it theology is not its own word but the word which it hears and which it responds to† [Evangelical Theory of Theology: An Introduction, page 15]. To rephrase it, theology asserts not itself but the word of god and places it above everything. When it comes to the word of god, we need not bear in mind one faulty premise, i. e. , there is only one god. The study of religion has proved it time and again that each person has its own god or gods as ‘the object of his highest desire and trust, or as the basis of his deepest loyalty and commitment. ’ (Barth et al. 3) So Barth discusses theology and divine matters from the perspective of religion and philosophy. His secular approaches in interpreting theology become apparent when he states, â€Å"There is no philosophy that is not to some extent also theology. Not only does this fact apply to philosophers who desire to affirm – or who, at least, are ready to admit – that divinity, in a positive sense, is the essence of truth and power of some kind of highest principle;† (Barth et al. 3) The author alludes into the history of Israel to affirm the concept of community as connected with the history of Jesus Christ. The gospel of god can be interpreted from a humanistic perspective when Christ is realized as a true god and true man. He elucidates the idea of man’s oneness with god by stating, â€Å"The community is confronted and created by the Word of God† (Barth 38) – â€Å"†¦ the God who descends to community with man, gracious in his freedom, and of man who is exalted to community with him, thankful in his freedom†. (Barth 22) The analytical mind of the author makes him ask question about truth in terms of existence of god. The presuppositions of modern theology are questioned and doubted repeatedly as Barth raises some pertinent issues related to the truthfulness of god’s existence, man’s connection with god, the validity of the ‘chosen’ status of Israel, myths surrounding Christ’s death and so on. The acceptance of the Word of god as truth by community is another contentious issue according to the author. It is one thing accepting something as final, and it is another thing understanding what is accepted with a sincere and rational mindset. So it is important for the community to clarify the conceptualizations regarding the Word of god. (Barth 39) Though Barth had been associated with a church as a pastor in his early career, he was not as dogmatic as his peers. He believed that God’s decree was not to prefer Christians over Jews (or any other non Christian) but to be with the people and bear their sufferings. This is why he professed Jesus Christ as the â€Å"medium of divine election†. He believed that theology is a language for the spirit but it does not preach self ascertainment. ‘Service’ is also an important facet of Evangelical Theology. It does not glorify oneself but the person whom it serves. Theology can be interpreted as the servitude towards divinity. From a more practical point of view it may reflect man’s involvement in the service of the society as well as in the service of god. Modesty, as claimed in the book, is considering theology as a selfless service. The realization of our own inner power and capacity to reach our goals is exemplified through the theological concept of remaining faithful to divine knowledge and wisdom. He states, â€Å"Theology will be faithful to its object only and precisely when it allows itself to be tempted by it. † (Barth 160) The believer must leave his salvation to god’s judgment even if he harbors any doubt or solitude. Many other important aspects of theology such as Faith, Prayer and Love have been discussed thoroughly. It not only portrays Theology as a natural science but it also tries to loosen up the orthodox bindings on itself. Karl Barth in his book had tried to uplift theology from its confines in the church to a subject that requires immense academic research and idiosyncratic perspectives. Work Cited Barth, Karl, and Grover Foley. Evangelical Theology: An Introduction. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 1979.

Checkpoint †Business Organization Essay

July 22, 1975, Bill Gates writes a letter to Paul Allen using the name, â€Å"Micro-soft† referring the their 60/40 partnership. Their main product is BASIC. Gates and Allen worked day and night to create the first version of Microsoft Basic, a simple computer software. They realize that the future of personal computers is in the software. The Computer Mart opens on Madison Avenue in New York. Zilog Z-80 chip is introduced. They have 3 employees including themselves and the revenue is $16,000. July 1, 1976, Microsoft refines and enhances BASIC to sell to other customers including DTC, General Electric, NCR, and Citibank. Microsoft develops its first ad campaign called, â€Å"The legend of Micro-Kid.† The partnership is moving right along and gates announces that he would like nothing more than to hire 10 programmers and fill the hobby market with good software. February 3, 1977,A partnership agreement between Paul Allen and Bill Gates is officially executed. Their main product is still BASIC. In November of 1977 the company is free to market BASIC to others. Within months, Microsoft licenses BASIC for the Commodore PET and TRS-80 computers, and begins negotiating with other companies. BASIC product. Bill Gates and Paul Allen shared the title of general partner until 1977, when Bill Gates became president and Paul Allen vice president of Microsoft Corp. January 1, Microsoft moves its offices to Bellevue, Washington from Albuquerque, New Mexico. After moving to Bellevue, Microsoft continues to grow in employees, sales, and vision. Microsoft has a BASIC compiler for virtually every microcomputer on the market. However, the company recognizes that languages are only a part of the picture, which is why Microsoft makes its first foray into the mass-market possibilities of personal computers by forming the Consumer Products Division, created to develop and market retail products and to  provide support for individual users. Microsoft expands its market to the European market with the addition of Vector Microsoft. Vector International signs on to represent Microsoft in the European market. Microsoft begins extending its network worldwide to computer manufacturers; they begin using Microsoft hardware and software for  2  the computers they produce. Microsoft has already established contracts with ICL, Phillips, R2E, and several other OEMs. The arrival of the 16-bit IBM personal computer in 1981 set in motion the new era of computing, the personal computer. Within a few years, the industry would come together around two primary operating systems: Microsoft MS-DOS and the Apple Macintosh. On June 25, 1981 Microsoft reorganizes into a privately held corporation with Bill Gates as President and Chairman of the Board, and Paul Allen as Executive Vice President. Microsoft becomes Microsoft, Inc., an incorporated business in the State of Washington. On June 25, 1982, James Towne, 39, was appointed president and chief operating officer of Microsoft (July 6 1982 — June 20 1983). In July, Towne took over all operating responsibilities from Bill Gates. Previously, Towne had been vice president and general manager of the instrument division at Tektronix Inc. ebruary 18, 1983 Paul Allen resigns as Microsoft’s Executive Vice Pr esident, but remains on the Board of Directors. June 20, 1983. James Towne resignes as COO  August 1, 1983 Microsoft announces that Jon Shirley, 45, has joined Microsoft as President and Chief Operating Officer and will be on the board from August 1, to June 30,. He is replacing James Towne. Shirley was previously with the Tandy Corporation. In August 1983, Jon Shirley, 45, joined Microsoft as president, chief operating officer, and director. During all these changes Microsoft unveils windows an operating platform that we are all familiar with and use to this day. August 12, Microsoft celebrates its 10th anniversary with sales figures for the fiscal year of 1985 of $140 million. The company has 900 employees and a diverse product line including industry standards like operating systems, languages, business software, hardware, and computer â€Å"how-to† books. September 3, Microsoft announcesv  that it has selected the Republic of Ireland as the site of its first productio n facility outside the U.S. The Ireland facility, located at Sandyford, County Dublin, will be a Duplication and Distribution Center for Microsoft software products to be sold in the European market. On March 13,1986,motivated by a desire to provide value to an increasing number of employee shareholders, Microsoft stock goes public at $21.00 per share, rising to $28.00 per share by the end of the first trading day. Initial public offering raises $61 million. December31, Microsoft announces that, at the end of 1986, Microsoft employees’ number 1,442. 1,162 are employed domestically, and 280 are employed internationally.

Salem Witch Trial Theories

Brennyn Mackey 2 May 2011 The Secret War of Salem Exposing the Culprit behind the Mass Hysteria The Salem Witch Trials were a series of infamous events that demand an explanation for their occurrence. The trials that took place in 1692 caused neighbors in the community of Salem Village in the colony of Massachusetts to turn on one another out of paranoia, accusing one another of witchcraft. According to Carol Karlsen, a longtime author of the subject, nineteen people were hanged and about 200 others were imprisoned (40).A few theories have been offered in order to explain the root of this mass hysteria. The theories in question need to be examined to see which holds the most credibility. Most historians who have studied the subject agree on the chronological order of events that set this dark episode of history into motion. They believe it began in the household of Reverend Samuel Parris. Reverend Parris owned a West Indian slave named Tituba. Tituba would tell the young girls storie s of her experiences in sorcery when the reverend was away.This small group of girls started with Abigail Williams, the reverend’s niece, and Elizabeth Parris, his daughter. Soon, a few girls from neighboring homes joined. Eventually, the girls began to exhibit exceptionally erratic behaviors. They would have hallucinations and convulsions. A physician checked the girls, but he failed to find a natural cause for their behavior. He attributed their ailments to a supernatural cause (Salem Witch Trials). The girls began to claim they were being afflicted by witches and started making accusations. Thus, the panic ensued.Those who have studied the subject of the Salem Witch Trials have very few disagreements on these events. Though history may have documented the events, it has not presented a clear underlying cause to their occurrence. Why did the girls act in such a manner? Scholars have presented their own theories for this mystery. One theory that attempts to explain the hyste ria is that there was a fungal poisoning such as ergot in the bread that the girls ate. This would be an ideal explanation for their convulsions. Another theory is that witchcraft was actually being practiced.This theory states that the incredibly odd behavior of the girls was attributed to the practices that Tituba was teaching them. A final theory that draws much interest is that the girls were acting. Scholars have looked at these events from a political perspective and suggest that Reverend Parris persuaded the young girls to act in an odd manner. The theory that answers the most questions without raising an equal number of new questions is the best explanation. The theory that Reverend Parris used the girls to gain wealth holds such a status.The theory that there was an ergot infestation is advocated by a professor named Linnda Caporeal. Caporeal has argued that a fungal poison known as ergot, which grows on rye, had been ingested by the girls, causing their behaviors. She goes on to explain that â€Å"all the symptoms [of ergot poisoning] are alluded to in the Salem Witch Trials† (Caporeal). This theory does not make sense when considering why the only ones affected were the young girls in the Parris household. Convulsive ergot poisoning most often affects small children, but the Salem Village had hundreds of residents.The whole village ate grains harvested from the same fields and this theory does not have an account of anyone else exhibiting the slightest convulsions. It is far too coincidental that the only ones affected were a few young girls. This theory has also been attacked by researchers such as Spanos and Gottlieb. They address the point previously mentioned as well as the nutritional condition of the villagers. In another article, they responded to Caporeal’s arguments regarding the afflicted girls as well as the villagers’ nutritional susceptibility.Spanos and Gottlieb state that â€Å"the fact that most individuals [â⠂¬ ¦] living in the same households as the afflicted girls showed no signs of symptoms is attributed by Caporeal to wide individual differences in susceptibility to ergot poisoning. † They also discuss vitamin A deficiency. According to their research: Ergot poisoning in individuals with adequate vitamin A intakes leads to gangrenous rather than convulsive symptoms. Vitamin A is found both in fish and in dairy products. Salem Village was a farming community and Salem Town, which bordered the village, was a well-known seaport; cows and fish were plentiful.There is no evidence to suggest a vitamin A deficiency in the diet of the inhabitants, and it would be particularly unlikely for the so-called â€Å"afflicted girls,† some of whom came from well-to-do farming families. The absence of any instance of gangrenous symptomatology makes it highly unlikely that ergot played any role in the Salem crisis (Spanos). The theory that there was an ergot infestation does not seem to h old up to the accounts of Spanos and Gottlieb. The theory of ergot infestation has slowly lost credibility due to these pieces of evidence.Another theory that attempts to explain the paranoia is the theory that witchcraft was being practiced in the community. The word â€Å"witch† came into English from Wicca, an Anglo-Saxon word that means â€Å"wise one† (Buckland 26). Witches have been viewed throughout history as servants of Satan, spreading misfortune. This is an exaggerated stereotype similar to the misconception that witches fly around on broomsticks and transform into animals. A Wiccan author known as Sheena Morgan addresses issues regarding false stereotypes of witchcraft. She states that people â€Å"have lots of misconceptions about what Wicca and witchcraft actually entail.People seem to confuse witchcraft with Satanism or devil worship [†¦] Wicca [†¦] does not seek new adherents† (14). The author implies that Wicca is a pantheistic religio n that promotes harmony with the natural world and does not entail bloodletting rituals. All the â€Å"Halloween† aspects of Wicca are stereotypical misrepresentations of their beliefs. The Puritans had a deep fear that those dark conceptions were a reality. Such preconceived notions and religious beliefs that the Puritans had regarding witchcraft must have been the fuel for the trials. According toPuritan beliefs, witches worshipped Satan. Melanie Gauch, a lifetime Wiccan, has stated that Wiccans do not believe in a devil. That is a Christian notion that the Puritans associate with paganism. The Puritans exercised complete intolerance of the Wiccan beliefs and created the paranoia in their own minds when they felt threatened. In the Bible, Exodus 22:18 states, â€Å"Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live† (King James Bible). The puritans followed the Bible wholeheartedly, and their beliefs carried them to accusations, and then on to interrogations.However, the main pro blem with the witchcraft theory is that it cannot be proven. The accusations themselves could not even be proven. One way to accuse someone of witchcraft was by use of spectral evidence. If an apparition appeared to an individual, they could point a finger at someone and accuse that person of afflicting them (Salem Witch Trials). This spectral evidence was only witnessed by the afflicted, but was generally accepted as credible evidence. Due to fear and hysteria, accusations could be made without proof of any witchcraft.It is highly unlikely that witchcraft played any part in the terror of the trials. The theory that Reverend Samuel Parris was the true incendiary behind the trials carries the most logic. Samuel Parris was closely associated with the Putnam family and had been given a minister’s contract that included all the usual benefits, such as a decent salary, a house and free firewood. However, Parris had received all this in addition to a title and deed to the parish, w hich enraged the residents who did not want to be congregationally separate from Salem Town (Saari 35-6).He was in desperate need of securing his position as minister and the outbreak of witchcraft accusations was the best way to do it. In a time of such paranoia regarding satanic forces, the villagers would be in desperate need of his services. Ernest King and Franklin Mixon Jr. authored an article discussing that concept. According to them: Salem Village, both before and through the witchcraft trials, was a religion-based community, allowing its minister to exert a level of political–economic control over its citizens. During the height of the itchcraft episode, there was an increased demand for ministerial services (salvation) in the Salem area. Recent research has argued that the minister used the witchcraft episode to maintain and build upon personal and corporate wealth (King and Mixon). This demonstrates that Reverend Parris had the political motives for taking advanta ge of the girls’ behavior. When witchcraft accusations arose, some of the Salem residents who had opposed the reverend’s contract had no choice but to attend church and pay any offerings they could. If they did not do so, they would run the risk of being accused of witchcraft.This was a simply perfect solution for Reverend Parris. Before continuing to examine the reverend, it is necessary to understand his background. Samuel Parris was born in London and grew up to inherit his father’s plantation. After a hurricane devastated the plantation, he became a merchant. However, when his business failed, he decided to be a minister (Orr 16). It seems the reverend’s life had a series of failures. According to Frances Hill, author of numerous books on the subject, Parris’s first misfortune had been dropping out of Harvard (117).After all the other hindrances, he was ready to accept a job as minister of Salem Village, but then demanded more and more changes to his contract over time, continuously negotiating matters such as firewood and corn provisions, the deed to the ministry house and salary (118). The Putnam family controlled most of the farmland in Salem Village and played a large part in his ministerial contract. This evidence shows there may have been a political partnership between the two. Salem Village and Salem Town were in a period of great political tension.During this time, the Putnam family owned most of the farmland in Salem Village and wanted to become separate from Salem Town, the nearby thriving seaport on which the other villagers depended upon for economic reasons (Salem Witch Trials). This divided the village, and the Reverend Samuel Parris became minister during this turmoil. Other than political division, the villagers had everyday worries such as Indian raids and smallpox outbreaks, which increased tensions. This was the social situation at the time of Parris’s ascent to position of minister.In order to gain political power, Reverend Parris would have had to do something about those who opposed him. The authors Paul Boyer and Stephen Nissenbaum examine the social history of the Salem community in their book, Salem Possessed and they have noticed a pattern. A series of petitions against the reverend were collected and the names of those who opposed Parris in the past were the ones most often accused of witchcraft. The names included the majority of the Proctor family and Rebecca Nurse (183-6). The most astounding case was the account of George Burroughs, the previous minister of Salem Village.When George Burroughs spoke out against the trials that Reverend Parris was championing, he was immediately tried for witchcraft. He was found guilty. Soon before he was hung, he had recited â€Å"The Lord’s Prayer,† which was supposedly impossible for a witch (Salem Witch Trials). Unfortunately, it is not known for certain whether or not Reverend Parris had been advocating agains t him until his moment of death, but this was another accusation that worked in Parris’s favor. The Salem Witch Trials may have been an irrational event, but they still have a rational explanation.Numerous scholars have attempted to explain away the events with multiple theories, but only one explanation has withstood questioning. The theory that Reverend Parris used the girls to gain political influence is most sensible. The reverend would have lost his job and after so many setbacks in his earlier life, he would not have been prepared for another loss. The relationships between two of the girls and the reverend makes the reverend highly suspect, but even more so was the fact that the accused were the ones who had usually opposed Parris in the past.The accounts of George Burroughs and the political partnership between the Putnam family and Reverend Parris carries also carries a lot of weight. In the end, the evidence shows that Reverend Samuel Parris was the culprit behind t he mass hysteria. Works Cited Boyer, Paul, and Stephen Nissenbaum. 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Farmington Hills: Blackbirch Press, 2004. Print. Saari, Peggy. Witchcraft in America. Detroit: UXL, 2001. Print. â€Å"Salem Witch Trials. † In Search of History. History Channel. A&E Television Networks, 1998. DVD Spanos, Nicholas and Jack Gottlieb. â€Å"Ergotism and the Salem Village Witch Trials† Science Vol. 194 (1976) Web. 30 Apr. 2011.