English Literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 1

English Literature - Essay Example into the treatment of femininity/masculinity in the film, it is clear that Asaji (Lady Macbeth) in the film is with more calculations and ambitious than the real character of Lady Macbeth in the play. Here, Asaji is the driving force behind most of the actions in the play. She is more cruel and masculine than the Washizu (Macbeth), the protagonist. Besides, in the play, it is clear that Lady Macbeth is completely devoid of the loving and tender qualities which are associated with femininity and motherhood. In addition, it is unambiguous that Shakespeare attempted to represent the character of Macbeth as feminine and Lady Macbeth as masculine. Thesis statement: Analysis of femininity in Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Akira Kurosawa’s Throne of Blood, and discussion on the feminine/masculine character of Lady Macbeth. The play Macbeth begins with the total destruction of order and by the climax this order is restored. Almost all the main characters get involved in this destruction and restoration process of the order or the restoration of the kingdom of Scotland from the control of Macbeth. Here, the female characters show more power and determination than male but both these characters are forced to face more critical situations in their lives. Besides, they are forced to wear the mask of masculinity of cover their feminine qualities of tenderness and caring. Shakespeare developed his characters by interchanging the gender identity of the main characters like Macbeth and his wife Lady Macbeth. Besides, the main male character is with feminine behaviour and the main female character is with masculine behaviour. To influence the Victorian Viewers, it was important for Shakespeare to develop this cross border gender identity. For instance, the character of Lady Macbeth is with male characteristics and her husband Macbeth fails to personify/prove his masculinity in most of the scenes in the play. James L Calderwood in the work- ‘Shakespeare & the denial of death,’

Intersex Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Intersex - Research Paper Example While intersex conditions are not completely uncommon, they are also not a surprise to society. The two major conditions are called hermaphrodite and pseudohermaphrodite. True hermaphrodites have complete sexual characteristics of both genders. This term has been loosely described though as most people are actually psuedohermaphrodites. This typically means that a person has one type of genitalia but secondary sexual characteristics are those of the other gender (Finkler). Some people may undergo surgery to remove any type of external genitalia so that they may assume one true gender. This would allow a person to then be able to have their external genitalia and their thoughts and feelings of how they identify with either gender to correlate and would give them a sort of true gender identity and would also increase their self confidence. People may also undergo hormone therapies in order to help aid in any transition (Finkler). According to a study done over fifty years ago, eighty-f our cases of people who were considered hermaphrodites showed cases of heterosexual libido. This has less to do with the person's physical characteristics. Instead, it has to do more with their upbringing. It was at this time of the study believed by these researchers that hermaphrodites experienced either homosexuality or heterosexuality not by hormones but instead by their environmental surroundings. This is thought to be true of both true hermaphrodites and pseudo-hermaphrodites (Ellis). A similar type of birth defect is ambiguous genitalia that is similar to that of hermaphrodism. This is a case when the outer organs of a person are not similar to a male or a female's organs. What can happen with this condition is the fact that during conception, the X and Y chromosomes from the father determine the child's gender. A person is either genetically XX and identifies as a female or is XY and identifies as a male. If the process in the womb is disrupted in which a baby assumes identi ty, it can then result in ambiguous genitalia. When the person comes from the womb, it is difficult to determine if they are male or female based on the organs that are present. Some of the causes of this condition are pseudo-hermaphrodism, true hermaphrodism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, lack of certain hormones or other abnormalities in chromosomes. It could also result from a mother taking certain medications (Medline Plus). Depending on the person, a genetic female may also appear to look like a female. However, a genetic female could also have physical characteristics instead of a male. This is the same for a male. Genetic females with ambiguous genitalia would have physical characteristics of an enlarged clitoris that looks like a small penis; the labia may resemble a scrotum; the urethral opening may be anywhere near the clitoris; there may be a lump of tissue in the labia that appears to look like a scrotum with testicles. It is often thought that these infant genetic fem ales are at first males but with testicles that have not descended. On the contrary, a genetic male may have a small penis that is under 1.2 inches at birth. This may look like an enlarged clitoris. The scrotum may appear to look like a labia. The urethral hole may be anywhere along the peritoneum and the testicles are still undescended. This condition is not life threatening but can relate to psychological issues in the future where a person may struggle

The History Of Dance And Cultural Influences Film Studies Essay

The History Of Dance And Cultural Influences Film Studies Essay Political climates, social factors and cultural influences are some of the key elements that affect dance and its development. Emotional and intellectual reactions towards changes in these political and social circumstances are often evidently seen in the medium of dance. (Company, Library, College, Division, Dept, Branch, Hanna, Arny, and Company) In the movie White Nights, the lives of two dancers from entirely different cultural backgrounds are intertwined resulting in an interesting marriage of tap dancing and ballet. These two distinctly unique forms of dance are central to the plot of the story as they help to push the action in the movie forward. Planted in an atmosphere of distrust and paranoia, Greenwood ironically found solace tap dancing his way into Broadway numbers that were truncated into small and less glamorous sets for an unexposed Soviet audience. On the other hand, the leading character Rodchenko, experienced a great freedom as he fled the totalitarian state; openi ng the door for exploration and exposure to a wider range of dance techniques, experimenting with different artistic directions. Eventually, their passion for dance and expression becomes the catalyst that transforms the relationship between the idealistic Russian ballet superstar, Nikolai Rodchenko and the disillusioned Harlem-born tap dancer, Raymond Greenwood. Set in the tense political climate of the Cold War between communist Soviet Union and capitalist United States of America, it was one of the primary perimeters for much of the tension between the two characters. With suspicion and fear, the two began their accidental friendship resulting a collaboration not only in executing a plan of escape but also in their respective dance forms. In a way, dance became one of the vehicles and motivation for these characters migration to another land. Due to the dissatisfaction or restrictions they have experienced due the political situation of their nation, they opted to leave for another land in search for an avenue to express themselves in dance. Likened to the oppression of the legalistic church during the Dark Ages, the outlet for emotional expression through dance was never successfully suppressed by political or social forces. Similar to the countryside folks who danced underground and away from the eyes of the authorities during the Dark Ages, Nikolai also found an outlet for greater expression in dance in America and other parts of the world. Parallel to the character of Nikolai, Raymond Greenwoods dances could also be seen as a result of the political climate of which he was placed in. Due the Vietnam war, he became traumatised and disillusioned with the American government. He too, was pushed by the atrocities he experienced to leave those memories behind and start anew in the drastically different world of the Soviet Union. In addition, International press relations and the image of the Soviet Union in the global community also seemed to be one of the key concerns which motivated the plot. Nikolai was held in the Soviet Union against his will in an attempt to convince the international ballet star to dance in Leningrad instead of the world at large. This is an example where the interests of the totalitarian state directly impedes an individual advancement in the world of dance (as in other art forms). This relates to the idea of how oppression has an effect on dance. As such, one cannot deny how the political situation of a nation has great impact on the emotional state and being of a dancer. This successfully creates a significant reaction which is displayed through the medium of dance. Socially, the sentiments and emotions toward the Soviet Union and the racism situation in the United States have been important factors that shaped the dances seen in the film. In the case of Nikolai, the rebellion and frustration towards the iron fist of the Soviet Unions reign was distinctly expressed in a sequence where he was dancing in front of his old flame. The movements and shapes involved in that dance were a clear expression of rebellion as it went against the basic ballet concept of pure and clean straight lines created by the body. The dance consisted of bend knees, asymmetrical forms and crooked shapes/lines, going against the elegant form and shape of classical ballet. Even the music (which was forbidden in the Soviet Union) feature the screaming tones of an frustrated Russian, displaying the emotions of an oppressed society. Just like in Hip-Hop dances and rap music of the African-American community, dance served as an outlet of release for all the emotional angst and sentiments of rebellion evident in the culture of a particular community due to the social issues and problems present. This scene not only displays a different side of Russian dance culture but also helps to bring the plot forward as it moves Helen Mirrens character to risk her life to aid Nikolai arrange for a route of escape. In this sense, the scene was strategically used to move the viewer and the character which was crucial in moving the plot forward. Again, this fulfills Noverres concept of ensuring that dance solos are used in supporting to a central theme and plot. The two different cultures and dance forms are introduced to the viewers are separate and distinct entities at the beginning of the show. In the opening scene of the movie displayed a dance piece that seemingly fitting the four elements of which Jean- Georges Noverre proposed that ballets ought to have in the famous Lettres sur la danse et les ballet: 1. Ballet should not only be technically brilliant, but should move audience emotionally through dramatic expressiveness. 2. Ballet should have unified plots that were logical and understandable. 3. The story should contribute to the central theme. Dance solos, etc. that do not relate to the plot should be eliminated. Scenery, music, costumes and plot all should be unified and appropriate to the theme. 4. Pantomime should be simpler and more understandable In accordance to this set of criteria, the opening scene aligns itself to these requirements. With a clear narrative expressed, the dramatic orchestra music and the elaborately realistic set where all present in support of the plot where the dance make sense. Despite the lack of speech or singing, the use of pantomime to tell the story on stage was evident in this opening scene. Although there is a generally clear and distinct storyline, the viewer of the movie was free to interpret the intricate details of the plot as it was not specifically articulated expression such as anguish, confusion and anxiety were expressed through the dancers using stereotypical and socially understood expressions. Without any prior knowledge of the historical context of the film, the viewer is still able to interpret and understand the general happenings in the ballet performance by reading the body language of Nikolai Rodchenkov. Just as Noverre recommended, it was simple and logical, making it quite pl ain for audiences to understand. As such, the Russian classical ballet roots were evidently displayed through the character of Nikolai.. Similarly, we also witness a distinctly American style of dancing (from the character of Raymond Greenwood) which has influences from the African-American community. One of the basic steps of tap dancing is shuffling which originated from the tribal African dances where they often keep their feet close to the ground in a bid to stay closely connected to the Earthly deities they believed in. Also, the repetitive rhythmic moves that harmoniously syncopates with the music in tap dancing are believed to be descendants of a tribal African dance concept where the repetition actually represented the cycle and circle of life. (Libraries, and Knowles. 21-23) Deeply connected to his complicatedly tough environment of Harlem, we see the past and motivation of Raymond Greenwood in a drunken tap dancing scene. Particularly, there was a segment in the scene where Raymond spoke of his decision to join the military. This is aided with a marching-like rhythms expressed in his tap dancing, vividly pai nting the picture of his circumstances during that time to the viewer. Though rather melodramatic, the brief sequence could be seen as a piece in accordance to Noverres concept where dance steps should be telling of a story to give meaning to these movements. As the plot progresses, it is observed that the characters were brought from Siberia to Leningrad. This is due to Raymonds persuasion (under the threat of the Soviet secret police) and the eventual decision on Nikolais part to dance at the theatre in Leningrad. The two dancers then began to collaborate increasingly in their craft as their relationship and circumstances develop. The two dancers slowly progress to merge or collaborate as they begin to gain trust with each other, plotting a route of escape from the secret police of the Soviet Union. Anchoring on their remarkable talent in dance, viewers are presented with a modern dance piece towards the end of film. This is where the two dancers performed a synchronised sequence accompanied by up-to-date 80s music, featuring moves that married elements from tap dancing, ballet and a kicking movement that viewers would inevitably related to Asian martial arts. This collaboration not only created a climax in plot, it also depicted the ch emistry that has develop between the two characters as they move in unison across the big screen. Notably, the brilliant choreography of award-winning choreographer, Twyla Tharp with the remarkable execution by George Hines and Mikhail Baryshnikov is evidence of how dance can become so versatile and fluidly applied in any circumstances. By Incorporating the different elements of modern ballet, with American tap dancing, choreographed according to a pop 80s piece of music, it resulted in an interesting and engaging dance sequence that effectively move the viewer emotionally and dramatically. Overall, dance and its development can always be credited to the political, social and cultural elements at work. Many a times, dance is a reaction toward the changes in these spheres that trigger an emotional and intellectual response. Through the film White Nights, the role of dance and power of dance is demonstrated through the believable and talented actors. With the help of a clever screenplay and cinematography, the effect of watching a dance piece in theatres is successfully translated on to the big screen, allowing the beautiful world of modern ballet and tap dancing to become accessible to an even wider range of audience. Using the dance pieces to develop characters and propel the plot, one might consider White Nights the modern cinematic take on Noverres concept of a ballet anchored upon a central theme and plot.

Cause and Effect Essay: Lying :: Cause and Effect Essays

Can you remember the last time someone lied to you? Or how about the last time you lied to someone else? Did you ever stop and ask yourself why? There are so many different reasons that a person might lie. Maybe a lie about something to keep oneself out of trouble, or even a lie to impress other people. But either way there are always going to be serious consequences or effects of lying.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  People lie everyday to, in someway or another, keep themselves out of trouble. Many teenagers will lie to their parents about what they are doing for the evening, how much of their homework they have done, or how that glass vase got broken while they were out of town. We even lie to our significant others about who that other boy was that called the house or what exactly we did with our friends last night. All anyone is trying to accomplish by this is to stay out of trouble when we know we’ve done wrong. But we never think of the effects of lying. Although we think we’re being sly, parents are usually smarter than we give them credit for! And eventually our boyfriends and girlfriends will find out! Then the problem becomes the issue of trust. If you lie, there is no trust. That can be one of the serious consequences of lying.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  How about lying to impress other people? More common in children and teenagers, we lie to make others think we’re cool. And when you really think about it, that’s the part that’s not cool! Most young people care too much about what other kids think. Everyone always wants to fit in with the crowd so they lie about things to make them fit in. What happens when the plan backfires? The downside effect would be that once people know that you are constantly lying to them, they wouldn’t think you’re cool at all. Cause and Effect Essay: Lying :: Cause and Effect Essays Can you remember the last time someone lied to you? Or how about the last time you lied to someone else? Did you ever stop and ask yourself why? There are so many different reasons that a person might lie. Maybe a lie about something to keep oneself out of trouble, or even a lie to impress other people. But either way there are always going to be serious consequences or effects of lying.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  People lie everyday to, in someway or another, keep themselves out of trouble. Many teenagers will lie to their parents about what they are doing for the evening, how much of their homework they have done, or how that glass vase got broken while they were out of town. We even lie to our significant others about who that other boy was that called the house or what exactly we did with our friends last night. All anyone is trying to accomplish by this is to stay out of trouble when we know we’ve done wrong. But we never think of the effects of lying. Although we think we’re being sly, parents are usually smarter than we give them credit for! And eventually our boyfriends and girlfriends will find out! Then the problem becomes the issue of trust. If you lie, there is no trust. That can be one of the serious consequences of lying.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  How about lying to impress other people? More common in children and teenagers, we lie to make others think we’re cool. And when you really think about it, that’s the part that’s not cool! Most young people care too much about what other kids think. Everyone always wants to fit in with the crowd so they lie about things to make them fit in. What happens when the plan backfires? The downside effect would be that once people know that you are constantly lying to them, they wouldn’t think you’re cool at all.

Decision making on workplace Essay

In my workplace I look after a gentleman who likes to go to the shops on his own. He is deemed too have mental capacity to make this decision. On making this decision it was discussed with him what certain protocols we needed to put in place to support him and to make this happen safely. This man is very much involved in his care plan and he has read, and reviews his care plan when changes are needed. Firstly it was explained to this man that we needed to put a risk assessment in place which says if anything was to happen to him when he was out and about that he took full responsibility of what might happen, for example if this man was to fall when out by himself that the workplace would take no responsibility for this, this man was very happy with this statement and was willing to sign and agree to this risk assessment. The family were also made aware of this decision and were happy for this to be put in place. Family suggested that maybe before he goes out that he was to tell a member of staff where and when he was going, just so that someone is aware. All parties agreed to this. Letting this man go out to the shops by himself really helps with his self-esteem because it makes him feel important, respected and makes him feel like he is as independent as possible and that he doesn’t have to ask all the time about what he wants to do. Also if any changes have been made to his care plan for whatever reason he is always consulted first and asked if he is happy with the decisions that are being made. If he isn’t happy for whatever reason he is more than capable to speak up and say what he would like or prefer. On the other hand if this man didn’t have the mental capacity to make any of these decision or had no family to make decisions on behalf of him and advocate would be brought in and they would be able to make best interest decisions on behalf of him.

To the Lighthouse Symbolism

To the Lighthouse Summary: Part 1: The Window The novel starts in the Ramsays' summer home. Mr Ramsay tells to the family that will take them to the Lighthouse on the next day but it wasn’t possible due to bad weather. This makes a certain tension between James the son of the family and his father because he really wants to get to the Lighthouse. In this part Lily Briscoe attempts to paint a portrayal of Mrs Ramsay and her son James. Part 2: Time passes This second part gives the feeling of time passing and also death. Ten years pass, during which the four-year  First World War  begins and ends and also Mrs Ramsay passes away.Part 3: The Lighthouse In the final part the remaining members of the Ramsay family return to their summer house ten years after part 1. Mr Ramsay finally decides to keep his word and take his son James and his daughter Camila to the Lighthouse. In this section Lily attempts to finally complete the painting that she started in part 1. Upon finishing t he painting (and at the same time the sailing boat of Ramsay family reaches the lighthouse) and seeing that it satisfies her, she realizes that the execution of her vision is more important to her than the idea of leaving some sort of legacy in her work.Symbolism of the Lighthouse. Before launching into what Virginia Woolf might be talking about Lighthouse I’m going to take a few seconds to explain you what it is. The meaning of Lighthouse it refers to beacon it's something people who are lost can look towards for guidance and the light it moves around. When the night falls, it flashes on, and when the sun rises, it shuts off. So a lighthouse works as both a symbol of  stability  (as a beacon) and of  change  (as its lights go on and off with the turning of the day).Now, about this specific Lighthouse. We know that it's visible from the Ramsays' summer home but separated from it by a stretch of sea. And we know that, at least at first, James Ramsay  really  wants to get there – so much that when Mr. Ramsay says they won't be able to sail to the Lighthouse the next day, James Ramsay  goes very mad. But the Lighthouse also is a symbol for Traditional Family Structure. One important thing they share in common is that they're both guys. Another important thing is that they're both really into Mrs. Ramsay.Sure, one's her husband and the other's her son, but they feel they have to compete with each other for her attention. All this leads us to a roundabout way, the Lighthouse is potentially a symbol for family structure, and especially for the authority of the father in the traditional family. So the lighthouse is kind of a phallic symbol, and phallic symbols in literature often mean that there are daddy issues coming down the pike. In other words James and Mr. Ramsay are squabbling over who gets power over the family: Mr. Ramsay is the authority figure, so he gets to say â€Å"No! he weather will be bad! † And James is a rebel who 's all â€Å"Why  do you have to ruin  everything? In conclusion I have talked about the Lighthouse as a symbol for family authority and how control over getting to the Lighthouse has a lot to do with family power. But like the Lighthouse tower itself, the family as an institution is solid and unchanging. But individual families come and go as rapidly as a lighthouse of a beacon goes on and off – time changes the shape of all families. All families have their upon and down. Bibliography To The Lighthouse (Sparknotes Literature Guide). Edition: 2003