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Macbeth Movie Review

2009-03-19T21:07:00.000-07:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 19, 2009

The Roman Polanski version of Macbeth effectively captured the eerie and horrific tone of the original play. Gruesome images and dissonant music aided in achieving this chilling effect. The context of the play was not changed at all. It was still set in Scotland, the language was accurate, the time period remained the same, and the dress and practices of the characters remained relatively loyal to that which the script implies. I enjoyed the amazing cinematography, particularly on the beaches of Scotland and within Macbeth’s home (the moments before Duncan’s murder were cleverly staged). I also liked the way Banquo’s murder was cut, with the lines “There will be rain tonight” as spoken by Banquo and “let it come down!” as the murderers released their trap.

The acting from every character was amazing. Lady Macbeth’s haunting confidence that transformed into guilty madness had me on the edge of my seat. I thought initially she was more feminine and manipulative than the bold and cruel Lady portrayed in Shakespeare’s original version. The screen chemistry between Macbeth and his Lady matched my interpretation of the written devotion.

My only complaint about Macbeth was also his is initial portrayal: his attitude at the beginning of the film wasn’t quite what I imagined. He wasn’t as kind and light hearted, the traces of madness began when he was first introduced during the witches scene. This evident in the sharp way in which he addresses his fellow Thanes. I didn’t believe that he was a good man succumbing to greed.

Afterward his character development was mastered. His phony innocence and nervousness after Duncan’s murder was well played. His paranoia was illustrated by awful hallucinations during the scenes surrounding Banquo’s death and the second witch scene, as well as dream sequences. Macbeth’s hunger for power quickly becomes apparent as he develops a cruel and mocking tone of voice.

My last few comments involve some common ideas that we learned about in class: symbolism, soliloquies, and humor. I noticed quite a few more puns at the beginning of the play than I had when looking at a page. This was a nice little break from the heavy themes presented. The porter scene had me laughing as well. Everything about the character was both realistic and comical. I found it interesting that the soliloquies were presented as “thoughts”, they were spoken as narration. What amazed me most about this rendition of Macbeth was the use of symbols. I recognized many significant ideas that we studied, in subtle places throughout the film. Borrowed robes, darkness and animals were seen everywhere, not to mention the overpowering theme of blood.

As You Like It LRJ #5

2009-03-16T17:40:00.000-07:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 16, 2009

Orlando is hopelessly in love with Rosalind. He is determined to have her hand in marriage but knows not how. Even in a negative state of mind, Orlando displays gentlemanly qualities. He is faithful, true to his word, and courteous to all, including common people. These characteristics are so noble that they prove him to be an excellent man as well as an excellent husband "That would I, were I of all Kingdoms King"(5.4.10).

In utter desperation, he places the outcome of his future in Gaymede's grasp, who vaguely promises that "I will satisfy you if ever I/ satisfy man, and you shall be married tomorrow" (5.3.120-121). Regardless of Gaymede's contemporary plans, Orlando continues to be loyal. He is always honest and candid in Gaymede's company, "I can live no longer by thinking"(5.2.53).

Duke senior approaches Orlando's plight rationally, "Dost thou believe, Orlando, that the boy/ Can do all this that he hath promiséd?" (5.4.1-2). Even so, he remains supportive, fatherly, and attentive towards Orlando. This is illustrated when he allows him to have his daughter in marriage despite the circumstances.

Oliver is luckier than Orlando in love, but though they were mortal enemies, Orlando has little jealousy. He treats Oliver with brotherly kindness. They exchange advice and Orlando agrees with Oliver's choice in marriage, "You have my consent. Let your wedding be/ tomorrow"(5.2.13-14).

Though thick and thin, Orlando is devoted to Rosalind. At this point, she is his only preoccupation. Upon her arrival at the end of the play, Orlando is overcome with relief and joy of course! "If there be truth in sight, you are my Rosalind"(5.4.123). She is his dream come true.

As You Like It LRJ#4

2009-03-16T16:19:00.000-07:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 16, 2009

Orlando has two task's in this Act. The first is to save his brother's life, which he completes by combating a hungry lioness. The second, much more difficult task, is to successfully learn how to win Rosalind's heart. "I would not have my right Rosalind of this/ mind, for I protest her frown might kill me"(4.1.114-115). In both cases he exhibits or learns gentleman-like qualities and therefore accomplishes his overall goal. He shows chivalry in rescuing his worst enemy from certain death, which is the mark of someone truly noble. Ganymede teaches him to be careful with his words and actions, which is another important skill "How if the kiss be denied?" (4.1.83).

Orlando has genuine interest in Ganymede's personality and ideas. He trusts him and goes along with all his curious games and simulations, including a marriage "Pray thee marry us" (4.1.132). Orlando treats "him" exactly as if "he" was Rosalind. He also demonstrates great loyalty to the country boy "...excuse/ His broken promise, and to give this napkin/ Dyed in his blood unto the Shepherd youth/ That he in sport doth call his Rosalind"(4.3.162-165), even when severely injured.

Orlando received great injury while battling a lioness to save his hateful brother. They soon develop a loving friendship with the help of Duke senior, "...he led me to the gentle duke,/ who gave me fresh array and entertainment/ Committing unto my brother's love" (4.1.132).

As You Like It LRJ#3

2009-03-16T15:51:00.000-07:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 16, 2009

In Act Three, Orlando is simply lovesick for Rosalind. "No jewel is like Rosalind"(3.2.89). In his despair, he hangs poetry on trees in the forest of Arden where he temporarily resides. "O Rosalind, these trees shall be my books" (3.2.5). The magical properties of the forest intensify his feelings. His goal is to be cured of this infatuation by learning how to woo Rosalind. This relates to his main purpose because he is seeking knowledge in both situations. In this case it is knowledge of women rather than the skills of a gentleman (these ideas do overlap).

A strange country boy named Ganymede has a solution "I would cure you it you would/ but call me Rosalind and come every day to/ my cote and woo me" (3.3.433-435). Surprisingly, Orlando eagerly accepts the invitation "I am he that is so love-shaked. I pray you tell/ me your remedy" (3.2.373-374). Orlando's immediate curiosity and trust in Ganymede is extraordinary.

Orlando also meets Jaques in the forest. The two men were not keen on their meeting, and would rather be strangers. The young lover does not agree with Jaques' moody temperament, and they soon go their separate ways. "I am glad of your departure. Adieu, good/ Monsieur Melancholy" (3.2.297-298).

As You Like It LRJ#2

2009-03-16T14:56:00.000-07:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 16, 2009

In Act Two, Orlando is told to flee from his bloodthirsty brother, Oliver. "This is no place, this house is but a butchery./ Abhor it, fear it, do not enter it"(2.3.28-28). Orlando was brave and bold in wishing to fight Oliver rather than flee,"I rather will subject me to the malice/ Of a diverted blood and bloody brother"(2.3.37-38), but he pays heed to his servant Adam's warning because of his loyalty.

Together they venture to the forest of Arden where they begin to starve. Orlando searches for food and encounters Duke Senior, from whom he forcefully orders accommodations. "He dies that touches any of this fruit/ Till I and my affairs are answeréd"(2.7.103-104). When the Duke calms him down, Orlando reveals his true humility and good intentions when he puts Adam's well being ahead of his own. The Duke kindly takes Adam and Orlando under his wing and treats them to food and entertainment. Initially Orlando was skeptical of Duke senior, but after he and Adam were generously cared for, he gained great respect for Rosalind's father. "I thank you; and be blessed for your good comfort"(2.7.141).

Orlando's goal in this Act is to protect Adam and survive the forest. "If this uncouth forest yield anything savage, I/ will either be food for it or bring it for food to thee" (2.6.6-7). This relates to his overall goal of becoming a gentleman because his generosity towards a treasured companion (despite his class), presents a truly noble man with a good heart.

As You Like It LRJ #1

2009-03-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 7, 2009

Orlando is the son of Sir Rowland De Bois. He is very loyal to his family name and his late father "I am more proud to be Sir Rowland's son,/ His youngest son, and would not change that calling/ To be adopted heir to Frederick"(1.2.228-230). His brother Oliver is the heir to the De Bois family fortune. Despite his great power, Oliver feels threatened by Orlando's superior wits "I hope I shall see an/ end of him, for my soul- yet I know not why-/ hates nothing more than he. Yet he's gentle, never/ schooled and yet learned..."(1.2.161-164).

Orlando's goal is to gain the gentleman's education that his brother is withholding from him. He argues and struggles with Oliver to let him receive the teaching that his father promised "...allow/ me such exercises as may become a gentleman, or/ give me the poor allottery my father left me by/ testament. With that, I will go buy my fortunes" (1.1.70-73). Orlando also partakes in a wrestling match to prove himself a man "I come but in as others do, to try with him the strength of my youth"(1.2.164-165).

During Act One, Orlando meets Rosalind at his wrestling match. He falls in love with her upon their first encounter "...heavenly Rosalind!" (1.3.290). Their love is sure to blossom in the future, but as of now Orlando is left to question he lineage and his lack of speech.

Macbeth LRJ#6

2009-03-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

The broad, cliche meaning of life question can be considered a general theme in Macbeth. This massive topic can be broken down quite a bit to apply to both Macbeth, and humanity in general. Morality is the main idea that is questioned- When is killing just?, What human intentions are considered just?, What ideals are worth fighting for?, What amount of power is too much for any man? What kind of a man is fit to rule?

Killing through vengeance or to benefit a population is justifiable. This is seen when Macduff heroically slays Macbeth who killed many for his personal convenience. Malcolm encourages Macduff to fight to avenge his lost family "Be this the whetstone of yours sword. Let grief/ Convert to anger. Blunt not the heart; enrage it"(4.3.268-269). When ones actions are for the good of the people, they are right and good "Henceforth be earls, the first that ever Scotland/ In such an honor named" (5.8.76-77).

The questions of power and hierarchy are not answered. When Macduff promises Malcolm countless luxuries in ruling Scotland he justifies his words by saying "Not in the legions/ Of horrid hell can come a devil more damned/ In evils to top Macbeth"(4.3.58-59). But what kind of a King is necessary? and what makes him more suitable than Macbeth? Malcolm describes a good king with "The king-becoming graces,/ As justice, verity, temp'rance, stableness,/ Bounty, perseverance, mercy, lowliness,/ Devotion, patience, courage, fortitude..."(4.3.107-110). Can any one person have all these characteristics? No.

Macbeth LRJ #5

2009-03-03T17:47:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 3, 2009

The final Act of Macbeth contains several insightful themes. Bad deeds cannot be hidden or forgotten. This is evident in Lady Macbeth's sleeping fury "Out, damned spot, out, I say!" (5.1.37). Though she controlled herself in public, Lady Macbeth was unable to hide the terrible guilt and fear she actually felt. Unable to withhold her grief, she committed suicide. Upon hearing of his wife's death, Macbeth paused from his ambition to reflect. He quickly realized that he had no reason to live,"Out, out, brief candle!" (5.5.26). Life is pointless without love. Macbeth's death "Behold where stands/ Th' usurper's curséd head" (5.8.65-66), proves that the pursuit of power above passion will end fruitlessly.

Bloody hands continue to be a prevalent symbol in Macbeth. The image's meaning also remains the same, blood represents guilt "Now does he feel/ His secret murders sticking on his hands." (5.2.19-20). One striking passage repeatedly refers to bloody hands. When Lady Macbeth is seen sleep-walking, she ceaselessly tries to clean he hands "Look how she rubs her hands" (5.1.28). Because of her endless fear and shame, she cannot remove the murder from her conscience which is presented as blood on her hands "Here's the smell of the blood still. All/ the perfumes of Arabia will not sweeten this little hand." (5.1.52-54)

Macbeth LRJ #4

2009-03-03T16:46:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

March 3, 2009

The conversation between Lady Macduff and her son instills genuine sympathy in the reader when Macbeth's cruel intentions are known. They exchange witticisms about Macduff's disappearance; when the son asks where Lady Macduff will find a husband she jokingly replies "Why, I can buy me twenty at any market" (4.2.47). The characters are endearing because of this humorous and sweet mother-son relationship.

Macduff is caring, just, and patriotic, "Let us rather/ Hold fast the mortal sword and, like good men,/ Bestride our downfall'n birthdom" (4.3.3-5). Though he loves his family, his loyalty to Scotland dominates his actions. He later realizes that he lost everything precious to him we he donned his armor "Sinful Macduff,/ They were all struck for thee!" (4.3.264-265). He used the pain of his family's death to strengthen his campaign against Macbeth and found himself powered by vengeance "Bring thou this fiend of Scotland and myself./ Within my sword's length set him" (4.3.273-274).

Macbeth has become more confident and callous. Humanity no longer matters to him and he carelessly wastes lives "The castle of Macduff I will surprise,/ Seize upon Fife, give to th' edge o' th' sword/ His wife, his babes, and all unfortunate souls..."(4.1.171-173). The witches use their prophesies to give Macbeth a sense of security which leads to his downfall "...Macduff; what need I fear of thee?" (4.1.93). His confidence leads to recklessness, and ultimately death.

Macbeth LRJ#3

2009-03-01T11:40:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10 IB

March 1, 2009

Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are gradually exchanging roles. Macbeth becomes more forceful, persuasive and manly "Both of you/ Know Banquo was your enemy" (3.1.29). His guilt transforms into paranoia, he is sick with power "Hence, horrible shadow!/ Unreal mock'ry, hence!" (3.4.128). Lady Macbeth has regret and empathy "'Tis safer to be that which we destroy/ Than by destruction dwell in doubtful joy" (3.2.7). They both notice oddity in each other's behavior, but hide their thoughts and struggle with honest communication.

Animals are a common theme in Act Three of Macbeth. They are used to illustrate power. Dogs are used to describe the stations of men "The housekeeper, the hunter, every one/ According to the gift which bounteous nature/ Hath in him closed; whereby he does receive/ Particular addition, from bill" (3.1.109) and how unjust it is that they aren't all considered equal as "dogs". This image is used to persuade the murders to kill Banquo. Macbeth relates his bravery using large, fierce creatures which represent external fear "Approach thou like the rugged Russian bear,/ The armed rhinoceros, or th' Hyrcan tiger" (3.4.122). However, the only fear which plagues Macbeth is internal, he struggles with the memories of the murders he has committed. Banquo's ghost represents this agitation.

The prevalent theme in Act Three is that fear is an internal quality. Banquo's ghost is used to personify this fear "Ay, since too, murders have been performed/ Too terrible for the ear. The time has been/ That when the brains were out, the man would die,/ And there an end. But now they rise again..." (3.4.93). People inflict fear on themselves based on there own actions, fear is not created by other people.

Macbeth LRJ#2

2009-02-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

February 25, 2009

In Act Two, Macbeth continues to have a conscience even after committing the murder of Duncan "I am afraid to think what I have done" (Shakespeare, 2.2.66). He is fearful and guilt ridden "Wake Duncan with thy knocking. I would thou/ couldst" (2.3.95). These traits are positive in this context because they imply that Macbeth is empathetic. The next morning, Macbeth's virtue begins to decrease. This is evident when he lies to his good friend Banquo when asked if he thought about the prophecies of the witches "I think not of them" (2.1.27). He is also a very unsettling and suspicious with his actions, making him a terrible criminal "Those that Macbeth hath slain" (2.4.32).

Lady Macbeth consistent and organized with her thoughts and plans "These deeds must not be thought/ After these ways; so, it will make us mad"(2.2.45). She in turn, had a pang of empathy similar to Macbeth's moral composition as a whole "Had he not resembled/ My father as he slept, I had done't" (2.2.16). On the other hand, Lady Macbeth is malicious and scheming. She uses her boldness and organization to plan Duncan's murder "Give me the daggers. The sleeping and the dead/ Are but as pictures" (2.2.69).

Blood is used to represent shame or guilt. The image of blood on ones hands or body particularly points out wrongdoing, which reminds me of the expression "he was caught red handed!". Lady Macbeth planned to frame Duncan's guards by smearing them with blood, this further illustrates the idea that blood represents guilt "Go, carry them and smear/ the sleepy grooms with blood" (2.2.63). Macbeth refers to his bloody hands to express his remorse "Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood/ Clean from my hand? No, this my hand will rather/ The mutitudinous seas incarnadine" (2.2.78). Lady Macbeth rebukes with her lack of regret "My hands are of your color, but I shame/ To wear a heart so white"(2.2.83).

Macbeth LRJ #1- First Impressions

2009-02-23T17:51:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

February 23, 2009

Initially Macbeth appears to be grateful, loyal and brave to Duncan and his friends, "The service and the loyalty I owe/ in doing it pays itself. Your Highness' part/ Is to receive our duties..."(Shakespeare, 1.4.25). However, when Lady Macbeth enters the play, Macbeth's fatal faults are quickly revealed. His great weakness can be broken down into malleability, inconsistency, and fear. Lady Macbeth easily convinces this seemingly righteous man to commit murder, "I dare do all that may become a man" (1.7.51), but he goes back and forth on this idea often "We will proceed no further in this business"(1.7.34).

Lady Macbeth is driven by loyalty to her husband and hunger for power, "Glamis thou art, and Cawdor, and shalt be/ What thou art promised" (1.5.15). This makes her brutal, strong willed, manipulative, and malicious, "I would, while it was smiling in my face,/ Have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums/And dashed the brains out..."(1.7.64). She would do anything to bring power to the Macbeth name, and therefore she goes out of her way to pressure her husband to commit the murder of Duncan "Art thou afeard/ To be the same in thine own act and valor/ As thou art in desire?" (1.7.43).

Though tempted by darkness "the instruments of darkness tell us truths,/ Win us with honest trifles..."(1.3.134), Banquo remains a kind, brave, trustworthy and honest man throughout the first Act. "My noble partners/ You greet with present grace and prediction/ Of noble having and royal hope" (1.3.57).

The main theme in Act One is man's quest for power. This is seen in the fact that Macbeth is delighted to learn that he acquired Cawdor and both he and Banquo are fascinated with having Kingly lineage, though they approach the idea humbly. "Glamis and Thane of Cawdor!"(1.3.125). "Thou wouldst be great..."(1.5.18). Lady Macbeth also demonstrates the lust from power when she ruthlessly plans to kill Duncan in order to gain the throne of Scotland.

The image of the bearded witches struck me as quite odd. "You should be women,/ And yet your beards forbid me to interpret/ That you are so"(1.3.47). The visual presence of uncanniness in the witches' appearance mimics their uncanny powers. It is important that the witches stand out symbolically, with their words, and in form because they cause all the suffering and mischief in Macbeth.

I'm not sure if my citations are correct: (Shakespeare, Act.Scene.Line), I could replace them with page numbers if that would be preferred.

Analysis of Sonnet 116

2009-02-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger

Ms. Peifer

English 10IB

February 21, 2008

Shakespeare's intention in Sonnet 116 was to glorify love by illustrating it as an everlasting, driving force. He personified Time and Love, used beauteous diction and repetition to deliver his ideas.

Romantic words give the poem a wise, yet longing tone. "It is the star to every wandering bark" (7). This refers to love as a guide, or driving force which sets life in motion. A loveless life is a fruitless life because love "bears it out even to the edge of doom" (12). Time and Love are made into characters to emphasize the strength of true love. "Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks/ Within his bending sickle's compass come..." (Shakespeare, 9). This relationship highlights the lifelong bond that is created by love.

The basic sonnet structure also assists with Shakespeare's purpose. The poem is well organized, yet provides a song-like lilt. This romantic quality is further expanded with iambic pentameter, which mimics the beating of a heart. Repetition also provides a spoken, lyrical tone, "Love is not love/ which alters when it alteration finds,/ Or bends with the remover to remove..."(4).

The last two lines of the Sonnet reinforce the idea that love is "an ever-fixed mark" (5). He brings his character into the conclusion to provide evidence for his opinions on love and becomes an example of Love's persistence. Love drove Shakespeare to write "If this be error and upon me proved,/ I never writ, nor man ever loved" (13).

Everyman- The Importance of Good-Deeds LRJ

2009-01-29T09:23:00.000-08:00

The theme of Everyman is that one is judged solely by their good-deeds. All other matters in life have little significance in the end even if the seem to be of utmost importance. "Ye hearers, take it of worth, old and young,/ And foresake pride for he deceiveth you in the end,/ And remember Beauty, Five Wits, Strength and Discretion,/ They all at last do Everyman forsake,/ Save his Good-Deeds, there doth he take" (15).

Human qualities are described as people, like; Goods (greed), Strength, Discretion, Five-Wits, Beauty, Knowledge, and Confession. All of these characteristics assist in preparing Everyman for the afterlife. This is evident when Knowledge and Confession help Everyman raise Good-Deeds from the ground so that she may travel with him. "Now, Everyman be merry and glad;/ Your Good-Deeds cometh now..."(11). However, Good-Deeds is the only value that ultimately goes to the grave with him, all of the other characters consent to the journey but betray Everyman in the end. "All earthly things is but vanity:/ Beauty, Strength, and Discretion, do man foresake,/ Foolish friends and kinsmen, that fair spake,/ All fleeth save Good-Deeds..." (14). This demonstrates the importance of kindness in life over egotistical ideas and personal strengths.

Dante's Condolences

2009-01-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger
Ms. Peifer
English 10 IB
January 8, 2009

Dante's Condolences

Just so those spirits turned on the torn sky [85]

from the band where Dido whirls across the air;

such was the power of pity in my cry.

"O living creature, gracious, kind, and good,

going this pilgrimage through the sick night,

visiting us who stained the earth with blood,

were the King of Time our friend, we would pray His peace

on you who have pitied us. As long as the wind

will let us pause, ask of us what you please.

The town where I was born lies by the shore

where the Po descends into its ocean rest

with its attendant streams in one long murmur.

Love, which in gentlest hearts will soonest bloom

seized my lover with passion for the sweet body

from which I was torn unshriven to my doom.

Love, which permits no loved one not to love,

took me strongly with delight in him

that we are one in Hell, as we were above.

This passage stands out greatly in comparison to the rest of The Inferno because the Carnal are the only sinners which Dante pities, "such was the power of pity in my cry"(87). The lovers that he encounters, Paolo and Francesca, are a mystery, but the message they deliver is clearly shown with Dante's response to the encounter. Upon hearing the sad tale, Dante faints with remorse.

Rhyme, woeful diction, dialogue, and imagery are used abundantly in this piece. These elements reinforce the somber, pitiful tone of the passage that renders sympathy in the reader rather than disgust or anger. The ABA rhyme scheme preserved by translator, John Ciardi, provides a subtle, yet sadly romantic tone "Love, which in gentlest hearts will soonest bloom/seized my lover with passion for the sweet body/from which I was torn unshriven to my doom"(97). Gentle words like "murmur"(96) and "bloom"(97) involve the reader in the sympathy that Dante feels for the characters. Since Francesca recounts the story, her woeful voice draws even more pity from the reader, '"O living creature, gracious, kind, and good…"(88). The imagery used expresses great beauty, even in Hell, which further distinguishes this passage from the rest of The Inferno. "Love, which in gentlest hearts will soonest bloom"(97) as compared to "There are souls beneath that water. Fixed in slime…"(119).

Dante himself imagined the circles of hell, which makes it odd that he punished these sinners heavily when he felt sympathetic towards them. The lovers are kept as a pair in death which can be interpreted as a sign of Dante's condolences "...we are one in Hell, as we were above"(102). This single Canto softens the tone of the entire Inferno because he, for once, expresses sympathy towards the sinners rather than disgust or fear towards the image of Hell.

Works Cited

The Inferno. Trans. John Ciardi. London: Signet Classics, 2001.

Beowulf's Passage to Heroism

2008-12-14T13:44:00.000-08:00

Cecilia Mazumdar Stanger
Ms. Peifer
English 10 IB
December 14, 2008

Beowulf's Passage to Heroism

With high hearts they headed away [1632]
along footpaths and trails through the fields,
roads that they knew, each of them wrestling
with the head they were carrying from the lakeside cliff,
men kingly in their courage and capable
of difficult work. It was a task for four
to hoist Grendel's head on a spear
and bear it under strain to the bright hall.
But soon enough they neared the place,
fourteen Geats in the fine fettle,
striding across the outlying ground
in a delighted throng around their leader.

In he came then, the thane's commander,
the arch-warrior, to address Hrothgar:
his courage was proven, his glory was secure.
Grendel's head was hauled by the hair,
dragged across the floor where the people were drinking
a horror for both queen and company to behold.
They stared in awe. It was an astonishing sight.

The monster, Grendel was a huge menace to the Danish people, his destroyer would be granted the immortal gift of heroism. This particular passage is important to the overall piece because it establishes Beowulf as someone to be remembered. Though Grendel's head is an utterly gruesome sight to behold, the passage retains a festive tone that illustrates the values of the community and glorifies Beowulf. "...his courage was proven, his glory was secure. /Grendel's head was hauled by the hair"(1646). The general customs and values that the community displays secure Beowulf's name in history.

Alliteration, gruesome imagery, and joyous diction are used to make Beowulf a hero. One feels more of an emotional connection and can better imagine the scene because of terms like "high hearts" (1632) and "fine fettle"(1641). The use of alliteration is very powerful in involving readers in the festivities. "Grendel's head was hauled by the hair, / dragged across the floor where the people were drinking/ a horror for both queen and company to behold"(1647). The words "dragged"(1648) and "horror"(1649) provide disgusting images of Grendel's mangled cranium and make the gruesome reality of the situation apparent. The setting and the reactions of the thanes are described with pleasant words such as, "a delighted throng"(1643) and "bright hall"(1639). This diction gives a sense of pride and beauty, even though the subject at hand is very disturbing.

I chose this passage because it has great significance to the emotional ideas in the story of Beowulf. The values of the Geats and Thanes are evident and Beowulf is shown as a true hero. Throughout the text, Beowulf has either pompously gloated about his bravery, or displayed it in combat. Here he proves himself without gloating, and the common people view him as an idol because there is evidence of his bravery. I did not see Beowulf as a hero until his community did. This passage marks a huge turning point in Beowulf's life.

Works Cited

*Beowulf.Trans. Seamus Heaney. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 2008.

*Underline feature is not available on blogger

Beowulf LRJ #2

2008-12-05T09:22:00.000-08:00

Beowulf's valiant fight with Grendel's mother displays many cultural values. Many of these values involve battle, such as: vengeance, pride, glory and the importance of ancestry. Vengeance is more suitable than forgiveness- otherwise the dead do not receive proper honor. "...It is always better/ to avenge dear ones than to indulge in mourning"(1384). The characters seem to be glorified when they present a trophy which represents their victory and pride, ""...his courage was proven, his glory was secure./ Grendel's head was hauled by the hair..."(1646). Heirlooms seem to have great importance to the Shieldings, they symbolize the importance of one's heritage and history- "a rare and ancient sword named Hrunting"(1458).

Unrealistic images are primarily used to create a sense of fear when describing monsters, but they also present Beowulf as uncannily strong and heroic. The power of the Grendel's mother is apparent when she cannot be killed, even by Hrunting "...the decorated blade came down ringing and singing on her head... It spared her..."(1521). When she finally perishes, the disgusting imagery continues to create fear, "Meanwhile; the sword began to wilt into gory icicles..." (1605). Beowulf singlehandily retrieved Grendel's head from his lair when "It was a task of four to hoist Grendel's head..."(1637).

Beowulf contains images that produce emotions due to the vivid diction used. These quotes involve the reader in story by giving feelings of disgust and wonder. The verb choices make it easy to picture the scenes taking place, "She had pounced and taken one of the retainers/ in a tight hold..."(1294). This gives makes reader nauseous "Everybody gazed as the hot gore/ kept wallowing up..."(1422), while this gives one the feeling of wonder, while describing Grendel's mother as vicious "...his body remained unscathed: the mesh of the chain-mail/ saved him on the outside. Her savage talons/ failed to rip the web of his warshirt."(1503).

Beowulf LRJ #1

2008-12-05T09:21:00.001-08:00

The Danes in Beowulf seek glory in battle, have a strong sense of community, and trust there leader."brand or buckler to bear in the fight,/gold-colored targe: but with gripe alone/must I front the fiend and fight for life,/foe against foe"(Gummere 6). The Danes support and protect each other from outsiders "A warden I,/sentinel set o'er the sea-march here,/lest any foe to the folk of Danes/with harrying fleet should harm the land"(3). Hrothgar's men treat him with utmost respect "This boon they seek,/that they, my master, may with thee/have speech at will: nor spurn their prayer/to give them hearing, gracious Hrothgar!"(5).

Alliteration is used to emphasize important phrases, "Grave were their spirits,/mournful their mood"(1). It gives the piece a poetic, speakable feel and makes details of the story more memorable and personal. "with/weapons of war and weeds of battle,/with breastplate and blade: on his bosom lay/a heaped/hoard that hence should go/far o'er the flood with him floating away"(1). It is primarily used in the introductory portion of the story which aids in foreshadowing future events by emphasizing important points in the story that are later returned to. Beowulf is mentioned as the "Wielder of Wonder"(1) before he is even a part of the plot.

Kennings assist in providing imagery. They are mostly beautiful phrases, such as "swan-road"(3). The descriptions are also very metaphorical "breast of the bark"(3) is used to describe a boat and "war-shafts"(6) to describe spears. Kennings are essential in creating a story-telling environment in this context, because they provide a basis for one's imagination.

Works Cited

Beowulf, Translated by Francis B. Gummere , The Harvard Classics, Volume 49. (P.F. Collier & Son., 1910) < http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/basis/beowulf.html>

Cited by Chapter.

Antigone LRJ #2

2008-11-23T12:01:00.000-08:00

The play Antigone includes many symbols that illustrate common Greek values and traditions. There are several images repeated though out the text, including wine, dust, and carrion animals. They are used to illustrate honor and lack of honor in death. Proper burials were very important in Ancient Greek culture because one's afterlife and memory are reflected in the honor they are given at death. Whenever Polyneices' punishment for being a traitor to Thebes is mentioned, carrion animals are present in the description, "He’s to have no funeral or lament,/but to be left unburied and unwept,/a sweet treasure for the birds to look at,/ for them to feed on to their heart’s content"(Sophocles 34). This image represents disgrace not only to the man's body, but to his memory for future generations. The dust and wine are used by Antigone to reward Polyneices with a proper burial, they represent honor to his memory. "It was lightly covered up with dirt,/as if someone wanted to avert a curse./There was no trace of a wild animal/or dogs who’d come to rip the corpse apart" (294).

The was one action that led to the countless tragedies in the conclusion of Antigone, this was Creon's fatal decree. He chose to allow no burial rites to those who defied Thebes, which upset Antigone, and caused a calamity. Everyone around him realized his flaws and brought them to light, but Creon was stubborn and wanted to remain a strong ruler in the eyes of the citizens of Thebes. When Creon spoke to Antigone upon her arrest hew said, "In all of Thebes, you're the only one/ who looks at things that way" (576). What he didn't understand was that no one was happy with his decree, not even the people whom he ruled and wished to serve, which is seen in her retort: "They share my views,/but they keep their mouths shut just for you"(578).

Creon's Anagnorisis happens when he is speaking to the Chorus leader, directly after Terisius has delivered his disturbing prophecy. Terisius puts fear into Creon's stubborn heart, but the King doesn't completely succumb to realizing his flaws until the Chorus leader gives him advice. "...I’ve changed my mind./ Since I’m the one who tied her up, I’ll go/ and set her free myself" (1243).

Creon's circumstances reverse when he goes to save Antigone from his own decree, this moment is called the Peripetia. "Now all is gone. For when a man has lost/what gives him pleasure, I don’t include him/ among the living—he’s a breathing corpse" (1296). The terrible circumstances spiral out for Creon, first with the discovery of Antigone's carcass, and then with the suicides of his son and wife.

Creon's catharsis or purifying moment, is the conclusion to the play. He is overcome with anguish for all the deaths caused by his stubbornness, and pleas for death. His careless actions and resulting punishments, leave him with great wisdom and purity. "...boasts of arrogant men/bring on great blows of punishment—/so in old age men can discover wisdom"(1493).

The women of Antigone are given a variety of traits which are not very common to most ancient literature I've read. Antigone is strong, honorable, smart, fearless and loyal "Take me and kill me—what more do you want?" (565). These powerful traits are more common to a man of the time, and her defiant attitude is viewed as strange and wicked by Creon who calls her an "evil woman"(739). Her sister Ismene and Creon's wife, Eurydice are more tentative, fearful, fragile, and pure, "I was terrified./I collapsed, fainting back into the arms/of my attendants" (1321). In the end, all the women are characterized as defiant. Ismene joins Antigone and wishes to share her punishment out of loyalty to her family while Eurydice commits suicide out of hatred for her cruel husband.

Works Cited

Sophocles. “Antigone.” Sophocles Antigone. Trans. Ian Johnston. 9 Aug. 2008. Vancouver Island University Malaspira. November 23, 2008 .

Young Woman Reveals Her Anarchism

2008-11-18T17:36:00.000-08:00

Thebes- As all citizens should know, King Creon has ruled that all those who have taken arms against Thebes are not allowed proper burial rights. Yesterday, dust was discovered on the body of a traitor to Thebes: Polyneices, son of Oedipus. This small gesture represents an honorable burial, but dirt was quickly swept away by our own loyal Thebian guards. Around noon a young woman was discovered at the scene, replacing the dirt. This was mostly likely the same woman who originally honored Polyneices. A local guard witnessed the crime at around noon yesterday, "...she brought thirsty dust in her hands; and from a shapely ewer of bronze, held high, with thrice-poured drink-offering she crowned the dead"(Jebb).

This woman was later identified as Antigone, daughter and sister of Oedipus. Unfortunately for Antigone, her brother Polyneices was left "to unburied shame". She found herself in a curious position, she could either be loyal to her uncle and king, Creon by following the law, or to her family and the Gods by burying her loving brother. When questioned by the King, Antigone is recorded saying "I avow it; I make no denial". Details about the specific consequence of such a crime are still coming, but a death penalty has been issued.

starting my blog!!

2008-11-11T09:33:00.000-08:00

Cecilia here. I'm sitting next to Claire Hinkley in the Central High School computer lab creating an amazing blog! Ms. Peifer helped me overcome my extreme technophobia, I've been gasping for breath all hour. I'm excited to share my thoughts on English activities with the rest of the class. I'm ready for some more epics. World literature is intense.

These new computers are nifty.

Expect to hear more from me in the not so distant future.

There will be fewer fragmented sentences, I assure you.