A comparative analysis of the characters in "The Devil and DanielWebster and Other Writings" by Stephen Vincent Benet and "Faust" by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe.
Abstract This paper examines how authors of literature have used their work to address societal fears and issues in order to allow their writing talents to shed light on a fear of society. It looks at how this is the case in classic works of literature regarding making pacts with the devil. It analyzes how, in "The Devil and DanielWebster", the pact with the Devil and the actions of the Stones provide an interesting backdrop for those who have concerns about selling themselves to the Devil for immediate material gain. It also examines how, in addition and also by contrast, the world has been treated to two versions of "Faust", which also focus on the Devil and what the Devil means to current society. It shows how, although each of the stories has a different plot, there are many similarities, as well as differences, regarding the Devil and the characters in the stories.
From the Paper "While the story of The Devil and Daniel Webster illustrates how true personalities come out when the money and the devil get involved the story of Faust shows a different angle when it comes to personality and those in the story. In both versions of Faust there is a foundational understanding of the influence the devil had at that time in history(Synopsis of the plot of Faust (October 2002). While Stone dealt with the devil for money, Dr. Faust is searching for the answers to life. In that quest he too deals with the devil. He is obviously depressed as he has contemplated suicide twice in the past already which provides a backdrop for the devil to entice him into the idea of a deal. This is the first difference between personalities in this story as compared to the previous one. Faust is in despair and old while Stone is angry and young. There are completely different motivators for the two stories and their characters? personalities."
Abstract This research paper examines and analyzes the landmark 1989 United States Supreme Court abortion case of Webster vs. Reproductive Health Services.
Abstract The paper discusses the 1850 Henry Clay laws that were later known as the Clay Bill or "Compromise of 1850." Henry Clay's proposition prompted much controversy, but was ultimately passed via two separate measures in Congress. The paper explains that Webster promoted passage of the Compromise of 1850 because he viewed unification of the north and south as the most important political issue for consideration. The paper examines how Calhoun approached the Compromise as an opportunity to discuss the evils of the power hungry north. The paper reveals that while at first glance it may seem that the Compromise of 1850 supported more free states and the abolition of slavery, in fact it made life more difficult for fugitive slaves.
Outline:
Introduction
Analysis of Text
Conclusions
From the Paper "Daniel Webster promoted passage of the Compromise of 1950 through his speech, which highlighted the importance of creating a solidarity among people living in the north and the south. Webster's primary argument included the position that since the time of the Constitution much change had occurred within the states. Webster suggests that the North and South were once in agreement that slavery was at best an "immoral and an evil practice", and that such practice could only be considered "inhuman and cruel.""
This paper is a critical analysis of Webster's "The Duchess of Malfi" and "The White Devil", focusing on the theme: "Sense of an elite woman's place in the world".
Abstract This paper first presents in detail Webster's view on morality and social relevance in the two plays especially in his use of imagery and characterization. The author then compares the strong central female characters in both plays. The paper argues that the plays force the re-evaluation of traditional social conventions, almost presenting a case for allowing women more freedom in deciding their own futures.
From the Paper "Perhaps the most powerful argument in favor of the presence of a social and moral comment in The Duchess of Malfi and The White Devil is to disprove the view that Webster was nothing more than a tawdry showman who resorted to grisly horror to entertain and amuse his audience. One cannot deny that both The Duchess of Malfi and The White Devil cause a great deal of emotional discomfort in their unabashed use of bloody murders, including the killing of innocent children in The Duchess of Malfi. But a counterpoint to this argument could well be that the very effectiveness of Webster's plays lies in his use of baser human instincts to illustrate on the one hand, human resilience and fortitude even in the face of the greatest of horrors, and on the other the dire consequences of giving into negative emotions such as greed, lust and the desire for revenge and power."
The paper looks at the play "Duchess of Malfi" by John Webster, suggesting that through the characters we learn that one's only chance for survival in a hostile world is through the deception of others.
Abstract The writer analyzes the drama, in particular the title character of the duchess. According to the paper, the duchess learns only at her death that the perils of life cannot be masked by deceit. The writer notes that Webster has the ability to create characters evocative of pathos in a way that is similar to Shakespeare.
From the Paper "Following the Duchess's self-deception that an ideal existence for her and her lover is possible is the aforementioned deception of her brothers, the act which leads to her downfall at their merciless hands. In addition to her marriage to Antonio, she must conceal the births of her children from Ferdinand and the Cardinal (She must go so far as to accuse her husband of being a thief!), all the while refusing to acknowledge the danger involved in her actions (Mahaney 167). In response to Antonio's asking "But for your brothers?" (Abrams 1254), the Duchess says, "Do not think of them./All discord without this circumference/Is only to be pitied, and not feared;/Yet, should they know it, time will easily/Scatter the tempest" (1254). Such a reply gives evidence both to her lack of perception of her brothers' intentions, as well as to her lack of introspection in recognizing her own impossible ideals. Only when she is confronted by Bosola, who harshly denies all she believes herself to be (Whitman 154), does the Duchess realize her fallacies of life. She asks Bosola, "Dost know me? Who am I?" (Abrams 1294)."
Abstract C.S. Lewis, in "English Literature in the Sixteenth Century", dismissed Daniel's "Delia" on the grounds that: "It offers no ideas, no psychology, and of course no story: it is simply a masterpiece of phrasing and melody" (Lewis 491). Samuel Daniel's sonnet sequence, "Delia" (1592), is undeniably remarkable for its phrasing and melody. However, one can take issue with Lewis' depiction of Daniel's achievement. This essay will argue that, contrary to Lewis' statement, Daniel's "Delia" reveals a complex level of interlocking patterns of thematic ideas and imagery. One cannot assert broad generalizations about a poet's entire work, much less the poetic production of an entire era, from the textual analysis of a single work. Includes annotated bibliography.
Abstract E.L. Doctorow has always been a writer who juxtaposes fictional events with historical ones. "The Book of Daniel" is no exception. While the character of Daniel is fictional, the events depicted--a thinly disguised version of the Julius and Ethel Rosenberg trial, the communist scare fanned by Senator McCarthy, the Viet Nam War--are all rooted in history. Daniel's journey then is both historical and personal, ricocheting between the past and the present as he attempts to find meaning in the events of his own life and those of his culture. "The Book of Daniel" is like its Biblical counterpart, part lamentation and part exhortation. History is a catalogue of a "time of trouble" in which some figures of the past will awake to 'everlasting contempt' while others turn to righteousness. Daniel struggles with both, an inherited past and an uncertain future. In the end, however, he finds his way.
Abstract This paper discusses the importance of Samuel Daniel's "Delia" through its structure and the creation of the modern sonnet. The author explores Daniel's influences including Sir Philip Sidney and Shakespeare, and his use of the Petrarchan writing mechanisms. Further this paper examines the significance of the sonnet to the English Renaissance and European poetry.
From the paper:
"Samuel Daniel's Delia presents to the modern reader a nearly perfect mechanism through which to contemplate the structure of the sonnet in English as it first came to be incorporated into the common practice of this language. His use of Petrarchan forms and metrical traditions demonstrates that the sonnet when it first entered into wide use in the Renaissance was indeed a direct carry-over from the Italian, a mimicking by English writers of the Italianate structure of neoclassicism, a harkening back to Rome and so to Athens."
Abstract This paper discusses the Prophet Daniel's vision of 70 Weeks through interpretations, theories, views, and fulfillments, including the references to Christ and the tribulations that were experienced. With all of the critical prophecies credited to him, the paper provides insights into who Daniel was and why he felt he needed to share his wisdom. The concern for historians regarding Daniel's work revolves around the fact that there are numerous problems confirming or even explaining some of the prophetical meanings of his passages.
From the Paper "The name Daniel in Hebrew means God is my Judge. Daniel was one of the most important of the prophets from the Old Testament. But his prophecies also carried over into the New Testament since much of the prophecy done by Daniel correspond with the apostle John and his work in the Book of Revelation. Daniel's acclaim and importance to the ancient Christian movement can be demonstrated by the fact that Jesus specifically referred to events from the Book of Daniel that were expected to happen prior to His return. Modern day religious scholars believe that Daniel was born a noble and maybe even an actual member of the royal family of Judah. ?Daniel thereafter held a very high position in the government for about 70 years, the actual ruler of what is modern-day Iraq, right until his famous "handwriting on the wall" interpretation on the night before the fall of the Babylonian kingdom to Darius the Mede (Daniel 5:1-29).? (KeyWay, 2004)"
Abstract The paper examines the book of Daniel, and explains how the Lord's power is exhibited as He gives awesome insight into the future, protects His followers in fatal situations, and illustrates the end of time. The paper discusses the basic storyline and describes the various miracles and events witnessed and lived through by Daniel and his friends. The paper concludes that the book of Daniel offers insight to questions of omnipotence and the final judgment. The author adds that in his /her opinion, it is easier to believe in a higher being than existing on earth questioning life and its purpose.
From the Paper "The definition for all-powerful is possessing unlimited authority or power. Other words used to define all-powerful include: omnipotent, invincible, supreme, and almighty. The Lord of the Jewish and Christian faith uses these words in reference to their God. The Hebrew Bible contains writings of a prophet during the Babylonian exile. "The God of Daniel is the omnipotent Lord who controls history, setting up and removing earthly rulers and empires, but also rescuing his people from the power of those kings and teaching them the limits of their sovereignty. (Davies 565)" In the book of Daniel, the Lord's power is exhibited as he gives awesome insight into the future (via visions/interpretations), protects his followers in fatal situations, and illustrates the end of time."
Abstract This paper shows E.L. Doctorow's "The Book of Daniel" as the anti-post World War II American novel. It looks at how, unlike the other books of the time, "The Book of Daniel" does not focus on the freedom of man, the American dream and the beauty of life in the vast stretch of the American landscape. It shows how, instead, it deals with the horror of post World War II America, the hysteria and the real truth of those who sit behind the blue glow of televisions in white suburban America.
From the Paper "Much like Faulkners' The Sound and the Fury, The Book of Daniel jumps from the past to the present. There is a element of duality, of a strange frozen place in time that sets the stage for the novel. Doctorow wants the reader to experience the chaos of Daniel and the time. It is the sixties, there is a strong opposition to the war against Communism in Vietnam, and Daniel finds himself in between these two places in time. His parents are killed for being "Communists" but does the hysteria stop? It is a Novel of the social evils that existed in Paul and Rochelle generation and are mirrored in the generation of Daniel. The difference that exists is between the attitudes of these two generations is the ignorance. Daniel's parents are put to death in the wake of great American pride. It is this same patriotism that sends the young off to war in Vietnam, but this time the kids are not ready to go and die just for Patriotism."
Abstract This paper explains that Daniel Bernoulli used his analytical skills across a broad range of scientific disciplines including probability, hydrodynamics, the flow of blood and blood pressure and Riccati's differential equations. The author points out that Daniel Bernoulli improved mathematical physics with his recognition of many of Newton's theories and his utilization of the more powerful calculus of Leibniz. The paper relates that Bernoulli's mathematical explanation of the behavior of gas led to Boyle's law.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Bernoulli's Contributions to Mathematics
Effect of Bernoulli's Work on Today's World
From the Paper "Aerodynamics is a subdivision of fluid mechanics that deals with the motion of air and other gaseous fluids, and with the forces acting on bodies in motion relative to such fluids. Some of the examples of aerodynamic actions are: the movement of an aircraft through the air, the wind forces applied on a structure and the working of a windmill. Daniel Bernoulli's principle is the main law dictating the motion of fluids, which links an increase in flow velocity to a decrease in pressure. For instance, for the same quantity of air at the entry to the venturi tube below to flow through the restriction in the middle, the air must accelerate."
This well-researched paper analyzes the differences and similarities in Daniel Quinn's 1992 novel "Ishmael" to that of the book of "Genesis" in the Bible.
Abstract This in-depth paper examines the views and opinions of author Daniel Quinn in his novel which focuses on an alternative take on human history as compared to that told in the book of "Genesis." This paper delves into the characters of Adam, Eve, Cain and Abel as portrayed in "Genesis" and as Quinn perceived them in his own novel. This paper compares the actions of Cain and Abel in the book of "Genesis" to those depicted in Quinn's novel which presents a somewhat different version of events. This paper examines the traditional teachings related to the creation of the world while comparing them to the differing views and perceptions of Daniel Quinn. One example focuses on the story of Cain and Abel and the traditional yet simplistic explanation which recounts the first recorded murder. Quinn delves deeper and more critically into this specific story exposing a much more complex and underlying meaning to that of a simple disagreement between two brothers which are detailed in this paper. The writer attempts to prove in this paper that the book of "Genesis" may be more than just simple tales of morality but an actual plausible glimpse into the development of human culture and man's own inner-psyche.
From the Paper "It is here where the stage is set for the first man's imminent self-condemnation. Shortly afterward, the book documents God's abstraction of Eve from Adams rib. The author makes it clear that in this golden age, Human beings could co-exist with their environment in perfect harmony until the emergence of the enigmatic character of the serpent.
When Eve tells the serpent what God has said will happen were she and Adam to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and bad, he says to Eve,
"You won't die! Because God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you'll be like God- knowing good and bad." The snake, whose intentions are ambiguous, tempts Eve to eat of the tree. She does so and then takes the fruit to Adam, who eats of it as well."
Abstract This paper discusses the life and death of Daniel Pearl who was kidnapped and murdered. He is the 26th journalist to die in Iraq. The writer shows that Daniel Pearl's life story shows that he was a dedicated news reporter who was not afraid to let the world know what was happening in Pakistan.
From the Paper "[Daniel] Pearl is the 10th reporter to die while involved in coverage of the war against terrorism, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists" (U.S. Journalist 2002). He is the 26th journalist that died in Iraq (Memmott 2003). Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and murdered leaving behind a wife and baby. The life of Daniel Pearl shows that he was a dedicated news reporter who was not afraid to let the world know what was happening in Pakistan. Looking at the life of Daniel Pearl will show that he was a dedicated reporter. Pearl was born 41 years ago in Princeton, New Jersey (Cabell 2002). Pearl attended college and graduated with a degree in communications. The first newspaper that he worked for was the Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield, Massachusetts in 1988 and he won a reward for a story the following year (Cabell 2002)."
Abstract In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the novels "Crossings", "Impossible", "Dating Game" and "The House" by Danielle Steel. Specifically, the writer discusses the heroines of the novels and looks at how they all seem molded from the same character - a female victim who survives all odds to find love. The writer points out that Danielle Steel's novels are often described as all fitting into the same formula plot and action, but she has delved into historical, suspense, and even non-fiction works, as well. The writer maintains that many of Steel's novels are set in the glamorous world of wealth and power, another commonality that includes many of the characters in these four books. The writer concludes that all of the women characters find the man of their dreams, fight to make it work and end up with love.
From the Paper "This character is on a journey to find herself, rather than find another man, and that makes her different than most of Steel's characters, who always end up with the man in the end. Paris, instead, adopts a baby, convinced that being a mother is the only thing she can do well, and in the end, does find another man to love, so the book ends on a happy note. Paris has learned how to be happy without a husband and without a man, so she seems better prepared for the future at the end of this book, and she seems like a more well rounded character, too. Most of the men in the book are boors at best, and Andrew enters so late, it is difficult to know much about him, other than he is a decent man and he loves Paris. Compared to Liane, she seems much more mature (of course, she is older), and her romance seems much more settled and believable. Liane falls in love after a short journey with Nick, while Paris falls in love after a dating relationship that is supportive and nurturing. It seems a better foundation for romance, and for a romantic book, too. There is more humor in this book, as well, and some of the characters are quite funny, which makes the book a bit easier to read."
