| Papers [209-224] of 1989 :: [Page 14 of 125] | | Go to page : <— 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 —> | |
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"A Doll's House", 2007.
A review of Henrik Ibsen's play "A Doll's House".
1,451 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Henrik Ibsen's play "A Doll's House" holds an unsurpassed place in the history of women's emancipation movement. The fact that it was a man who wrote this and not a woman lends it even further credibility since it highlights the truth that pain and anguish of women are not only felt by women themselves but by all perceptive empathetic individuals. It examines how the play appeared in 1879 when women were still completely suppressed and success of marriage was dependent on women's obedience, subservience and silence and how it was in such times that Ibsen came forward with a completely refreshing viewpoint on the issue.
From the Paper
"Females like Nora did not find heavy presence in literature and the few cases where they did, social norms still heavily influenced their acceptance. For this reason Nora's role gained immense significance in theatrical circles especially among the younger generation, many of who accepted Nora's words as their pearls of wisdom. She became a role model for younger women and the importance of her role in triggering the revolution for emancipation cannot be denied. Critics feel that subjugation of women in the 19th century could be attributed to their financial dependence. Since they were not participating in the economic activity, they had only their husbands to rely on for monetary assistance."
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Moral and Social Consciousness, 2007.
This paper looks at the aspects of moral and social consciousness in Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House" and Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper".
1,054 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 48.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the works "A Doll's House" by Henrik Ibsen and "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Specifically, the paper discusses moral and social consciousness in service to others in the two stories. The writer notes that both of these stories raise issues of moral and social consciousness, and make the reader more aware of how society viewed and treated women during the Victorian Age. The writer points out that the characters in both stories must conquer obstacles and fight for what they believe is right, even if it goes against the culture and belief systems of the time. In conclusion, these two stories indicate how important moral and social consciousness is in our society, and how it can be a great service to others in trouble or in need.
From the Paper
"Nora may never return to the family, and she will face many obstacles attempting to make a living on her own at a time when few middle- or upper-class women worked outside the home."
"Both women fought for what they knew was right at a time when women were literally kept behind closed doors for most of the time. Both women could see the wrongs and injustices in society, and both knew there had to be more for them somewhere else. The narrator pays the highest cost because she gives up her sanity and her family, and she faces the greatest obstacles to a normal life. It is interesting that the male author (Ibsen) creates a character that seems irrational in her decision to leave, while the female author creates a character that is quite sympathetic even as madness creeps up on her. This indicates just how different male and female views were at the time. Both women fought and spoke out about wrongs, but they were viewed differently even by their own authors."
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'A Doll's House', 2006.
A review of 'A Doll's House' by Henrik Ibsen.
1,207 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses Henrik Ibsen's work, 'A Doll's House'.
The paper also analyzes the various symbols throughout the play. According to the paper, this work is more of a tragedy than a comedy.
From the Paper
"Nora does bring about some of her own problems by lying to Torvald, even though she feels like it will save his life. The fact that she has been lying to her husband for so long cannot lead to anything good, since their whole marriage is based on a lie. Despite this, she is not really a victim and does not deserve the harsh treatment Torvald gives her when he finds out the truth. I think that Ibsen wanted to show Nora as a victim who only found out the true nature of her husband because she had to make a tough choice. Personally, I think that Nora was a victim of both society and her own poor choices; she tried to fill the accepted role of wife and mother but did not uphold that role by lying and trying to protect her husband."
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"Hamlet", 2007.
An analysis of the theme of the fate of the world and the fate of kings being tied together, as seen in "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare.
937 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the play "Hamlet," by William Shakespeare with a focus on the concept that the role and plight of Hamlet in his family mirrors the state of the kingdom and then becomes a means of restoring order to a world in turmoil. It also contrasts Hamlet's character and family situation with the family of Polonius, his father's adviser.
From the Paper
"The fact that the kingdom is in turmoil is reflected not just in the tensions in the court and the storm that may be brewing outside but even more in the fact that Hamlet's father's ghost appears. Hamlet is told what to do by the ghost of his father, whom he meets on the ramparts at night, a portent to all of things to come. Hamlet is called upon to kill Claudius and so to revenge his father's death. This act will also restore order to the kingdom. Some see the ghost as a demonic influence who should not be trusted, and Hamlet himself hesitates as if unsure that the ghost is telling the truth. Hamlet may want revenge, but his actions are not simply attempts to get revenge."
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Falstaff in "Henry IV", 2007.
A discussion of the figure Falstaff in Shakespeare's "Henry IV".
1,297 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the role and character of Falstaff in Shakespeare's play "Henry IV". The paper acknowledges Falstaff's role as comic relief and his part in Prince Harry's life. This friendship is considered in the paper as well. Several opinions of Falstaff from noted Shakespeare experts are presented along with the writer's view of this character. The paper concludes by stating Falstaff was a necessary figure in the play because he was the only character with whom Prince Harry spoke candidly and often truthfully.
From the Paper
"Falstaff made life exciting for Prince Harry, and he was fun to be around. His character is in sharp contrast with the nobility which will be Harry's companions at court when he becomes King, and seems to be quite dishonest by comparison. However, in some ways, he is truer than any of the noblemen, because he is quite candid concerning his own self interest. It is not that he does not lie. He does, in the last scene of Act II, when he tells about how he and his companions were robbed by other highwaymen after capturing their prize, "All! I know not what you call all; but if I fought not with fifty of them, I am a bunch of radish: if there were not two or three and fifty upon poor old Jack, then am I no two-legged creature." Harry and Poins were, of course, the robbers who fell on them as a practical joke, and they all fled immediately. As Falstaff tells the tale and answers questions the lies become more and more exaggerated."
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"Fences", 2007.
This paper analyzes the theme of fatherhood in the play "Fences" by August Wilson.
1,389 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses Wilson's opinion and vision of fatherhood in the story and what critics think about this vision. The paper shows how Wilson's opinion of fatherhood in this play is colored by his own experiences and inability to understand and forgive his father. The paper illustrates how his portrayal of Troy Maxson is therefore partially based on his strained relationship with his stepfather. The paper discusses how Wilson's hope is to allow sons to learn from their fathers, while not committing the same mistakes their fathers made. However, the paper points out that his play illustrates just how difficult it is for fathers and sons to put the past behind them.
From the Paper
"The play follows the lives of the Maxson family, Troy, the father, and Cory and Lyons, his sons. Like most fathers, Troy wants more for his sons than he has, but he often goes about influencing them the wrong way. Wilson based the quarrels between father and sons on his own relationship with his father and stepfather, which may explain why his portrayal of fatherhood is so difficult to read. Critic Sandra G. Shannon notes, "The playwright's own turbulent passage into manhood with neither financial nor emotional support from his father is reflected in the escalating battle royal between the antagonistic Troy and his defiant son Cory" (Shannon 92)."
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Fanny Brice, 2007.
This paper analyzes the life of Jewish comedienne Fanny Brice.
947 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 43.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the life of Fanny Brice, a legendary performer in the 1920s and 30s who performed on Broadway, in burlesque and in the famous Ziegfeld Follies. The paper shows how Fanny Brice was a remarkable entertainer and woman. The paper relates that she was incredibly talented and learned how to perform by gauging her audience and finding what worked for her own personality, looks and talents. The paper notes that she was one of the first successful Jewish comediennes who is still remembered for her wit and outrageous characters.
From the Paper
"Fanny Brice was born in New York City in 1891. Her parents were immigrants who owned saloons, and her real name was Fania Borach. She began performing early in her life, and aspired to be a serious actress, but her Semitic looks always forced her into character parts. In fact, while she often sang humorous songs with a Yiddish accent, in reality she did not even speak Yiddish (Editors, 2006). She was also tall and skinny, which made her stand out from most of the chorus girls of the time, who were more statuesque (Sorel, 1986, p. 81). In 1906, she won an amateur night contest at a famous vaudeville theater at the age of fourteen, and her career in the theater got its start. She dropped out of school after the eighth grade to concentrate on her career."
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Hamlet's Delay, 2007.
This paper looks at reasons for Hamlet's delay in killing Claudius.
1,072 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that although critics and scholars have offered many different reasons for Hamlet's delay in avenging the death of Denmark's King, none of these possible causes have received unanimous acceptance. The paper then examines the various plausible explanations for Hamlet's delay in killing Claudius. The paper also explains that there is some degree of certainty that Hamlet's obvious madness, whether it was feigned or real, had a great deal of influence on his actions.
From the Paper
"It has also been said that Hamlet's delay was caused by doubt about Claudius's action or the motive of the ghost. It is seen that Hamlet does suspect the motives of the ghost when he wonders if it could be a devil trying to lure him to commit the hideous crime. But this doubt is soon settled during the play scene and Hamlet is still unsure of his reaction and leaves for England. Morality is also out of question as the possible cause because Hamlet feels no remorse or burden on his conscience when Rosencrantz and Guildenstern die. (V.ii.58) This shows that he fully understood the difference between killing an innocent man and killing an offender."
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The Tragedy of Hamlet, 2003.
A review of 'Hamlet' by William Shakespeare.
818 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at William Shakespeare's most famous play, 'Hamlet'. According to the paper, at face value the plot appears to be relatively simple. The paper goes on to explain, however, that, upon taking a closer look, one realizes that the play has many psychological and metaphysical implications: it is, in fact a meditation on the nature of man, as well as a meditation on life in general.
From the Paper
"At both the psychological and philosophical levels of the play, the Shakespearian text reveals a very important theme- that of the contrast between appearance and reality. The structure of the play and its main events unfold this contrast: the double crime is called a "foul play" by Hamlet upon his hearing from Horatio about the apparition of the ghost of his father. This term intimates that the events as apparent in the play have a hidden meaning. Also, play becomes again important in what was called the "play within play" scene, where it is Hamlet's turn to play and stage a tragedy for Claudius with the aid of some actors, in which he inserts a few lines that speak of his father's murder. Thus, the "play" or the act of playing at reality becomes a central theme of Hamlet. "
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"The Crucible", 2007.
A character analysis of John Proctor from "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller.
1,221 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 53.95
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Abstract
The paper describes the setting of this play, being based on the events surrounding the 1692 witch trails that took place in Salem, Massachusetts. The paper looks closely at the character of John Proctor who commits adultery but is prepared to save his wife even at the expense of his secret being revealed. The paper portrays John's continuous struggle against his inner contradictions and how he chooses death rather than dishonor.
From the Paper
"The plot evolves around one character, John Proctor--"a farmer in his middle thirties"--who commits the sin of cheating on his wife once with Abigail, a girl of seventeen, "strikingly beautiful, an orphan, with an endless capacity for dissembling." (Arthur Miller, The Crucible, 8) Jealous and resentful of being rejected, Abigail accuses Proctor's wife of witchcraft, of murderous thoughts, manipulating others to take sides with her and spreading witchcraft panic through the village. Proctor, who has more or less indirectly caused his wife to be accused, has now a moral obligation to save her. In trying to do so, though, he himself is charged with witchcraft."
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"A Doll's House", 2007.
An analysis of the plot in "A Doll's House," by Henrik Ibsen.
731 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House," underscores the need of a woman to be liberated and to be a person before becoming a wife and mother. The paper describes the story-line of the play and how Ibsen presents his plot to his audience. The paper discusses the character of Nora and her husband and how their personalities are portrayed by Ibsen.
From the Paper
"Helmer refuses to oblige and turns down numerous requests by Nora. This results in an infuriated Krogstad writing a letter to Helmer, revealing Nora's secret. As luck would have it, as soon as the letter to Helmer is posted, Krogstad gets back with the love of his life and decides to withdraw the letter. However Kristine tells him not to do so since she wants the secret out so Nora could see for herself how her husband took the news convinced that "a woman who has once sold herself for another's sake, doesn't do it a second time" Kristine had seen that there was some tension between the two due to this little secret and she sincerely wanted them to get over with it and move on. She insists that letter be posted and this leads to the climax."
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Shakespeare's "Hamlet", 2006.
This paper identifies Renaissance ideals in Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,445 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Renaissance concept and consideration of death are prominent throughout Shakespeare's "Hamlet". The author points out that, in Shakespeare's famous soliloquy, Hamlet hesitates in his consideration of suicide not because of an absolute Christian belief in divine retribution but because he is afraid of an afterlife of which he is unsure. The paper relates that the Renaissance ideas around decay of the body and mortality as the great leveler are present in "Hamlet" on several occasions such as after killing Polonius and disposing of the remains. The paper includes quotations from the play.
From the Paper
"The Renaissance is considered a period of rebirth for culture and learning. It is traditionally identified at the period of European history that closes the Middle Ages, spanning from the 14th to the mid-17th centuries. Considered the beginning of the modern world, the Renaissance period experienced a rebirth of ancient Greek philosophies, and a renewed interest in classical art forms and sensitivities. Many artists began to explore and expand the work done in the classical age, concentrating on the human form and the depiction of ancient mythologies."
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"Hamlet" and the Renaissance, 2006.
A review of the representation of Renaissance ideals in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,453 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 63.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare and looks at how he uses his work to display Renaissance thought and concerns. It examines how, through Hamlet's contemplation of death, his character is solidly connected to the ideals of the Renaissance.
From the Paper
"One such archaic belief that was left behind in the previous centuries was the sense that tragedies, both personal and widespread, were great punishments for sins. In particular, a tragic and untimely death was often considered some kind of spiritual retribution passed down to the individual from God himself. This certainly made sense since the medical knowledge of the day could not explain the horrible plagues that wiped out entire populations, or other such tragic events. Often what is not understood is highly feared and attributed to a greater power, and so an early death or any death preceded by an agonizing illness was considered a terrible event since they were a clear indication of God's displeasure. These conceptions were replaced in the Renaissance, especially by the time Shakespeare was writing Hamlet."
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"The Merchant of Venice", 2007.
An analysis of the money-conscious attitudes of the various characters in William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice."
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses whether Shylock the Jew is the most money-hungry character in William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice." The paper analyzes the plot and some of the scenes in the play in order to compare the different character's views on money. The paper concludes that it is the Christian Bassanio who is the most money-conscious of all of the persons in the play and explains why this is so.
From the Paper
"It is the Christian Bassanio, ironically, who is the most money-conscious of all of the persons in the play. Bassanio chooses lead, when asked to select from the three caskets that Portia offers to test her suitors. She is happy that he wins, and the lead is supposed to be the correct choice, for the person who chooses lead is supposed to be a man who has hazarded all he has, to win Portia. But in truth, Bassanio has hazarded nothing and desires Portia's gold. It is Antonio who has taken the risk in lending money for his friend. Now that Shylock is angered because of the loss of his daughter, he resolves to call upon the bond Antonio made in jest, a pound of flesh. The jest-like nature of the false bond was reflected when Antonio said that: "The Hebrew will turn Christian: he grows kind." (I.2) In other words, Shylock asked for no interest or money upon the loan in an effort to cement his relationship with Antonio (another example of how Shylock does not always put money before relationships). However, Shylock's kindness turns to cruelty, because a Christian has sundered his relationship with his beloved daughter--a Christian, incidentally, in need of money that willingly spends the ducats stolen by his stolen bride from Shylock's coffers."
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Aristotle's Definition of the Tragedy, 2006.
This paper analyzes Sophocles' "Oedipus the King" according to Aristotle's definition of the tragedy.
965 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 0 sources, AU$ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in Aristotle's definition of the tragedy, the most important element is that the medium in which the events occur is a drama rather than a narrative. The author points out that Sophocles' "Oedipus the King' is a tragedy that is demonstrated through the unity of events. The paper rates that thought, which relates to the ideas behind the tragic events in the drama, and diction, which refers to the expression of meaning through words, are other important tragic elements that Aristotle defines as important in a tragedy. The author discusses Sophocles' use of the chorus, which coincides with Aristotle's fifth important element of tragedy---song or melody.
From the Paper
"The second important element of the tragedy is a strong main character, who supports the plot of the drama. In this, the main character's motivations and fears interlink with the plot elements in the movement towards the climax of the tragedy. The main character, according to Aristotle, should not only be a person of great importance and prosperity in society, but he should also have admirable personality traits. The combination of material and spiritual prosperity will then make the outcome all the more tragic. This is certainly so in the case of Oedipus."
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'The Glass Menagerie', 2006.
A review of 'The Glass Menagerie' by Tennessee Williams.
1,127 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews one of Tennessee Williams' most memorable plays, 'The Glass Menagerie'. The paper reports that Williams could not help but to embed elements of his personal life in this play. The paper further discusses how, told through the eyes of narrator ,Tom, the story of the Wingfields remarkably resembles Williams' own life.
From the Paper
"The glass menagerie symbolizes not only Laura's fragility but that of the entire Wingfield family. Amanda may be the strongest Wingfield but Tom and Laura's mother is also vulnerable. She demonstrates an acute sense of financial insecurity and must feign confidence and strength in spite of having been abandoned by the men in her life. The Glass Menagerie is an inadvertently feminist play for several reasons. First, Amanda encourages Laura's occupational growth and self-sufficiency. Although she was raised in a traditional Southern family, Amanda does not view marriage as a woman's only source of personal satisfaction. Williams suggests that women in fact should not rely on men, based on the playwright's own experiences with his distant father and his personal tendencies toward fantasy and escapism. Tom, like Tennessee, cannot contend with the responsibilities and pressures placed up on him by traditional family life and the American Dream."
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