| Papers [91-105] of 1805 :: [Page 7 of 121] | | 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 —> | |
|
|
Dorian Gray and Dr. Faustus, 2007.
This paper looks at the fall from grace of the title characters in the plays "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde and "Dr. Faustus" by Christopher Marlowe.
1,700 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at the characters Dorian Gray in "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and Dr. Faustus in the play of the same name. The writer notes that in both Marlowe's and Wilde's tales of men overreaching the natural order, evil is primarily construed as transcending the natural, specifically of desiring eternal life, rather than bowing to the natural processes of change that are inherent in nature. Further, the writer points out that God's law is synonymous with nature, and both Faustus and Dorian Gray go against nature and embrace artifice and art. The writer concludes that for all of their unnaturalness and evil, the protagonists remain the most 'naturally' compelling characters of their respective dramas, given the unrealistic and 'unnatural' one-dimensionality and weakness of those individuals who are unfortunate enough to encounter Dorian and Faustus.
From the Paper
"The seductiveness of both protagonists' ambitions for the reader, however, has provoked contradictory interpretations in the responses of critics and its more general audience. On one hand, both works seem to argue that obeying God's natural order and law regarding knowledge and morality is best. In short, do not seek to become a magician or seek to be young forever. But although Dorian Gray may read like an argument against art and artifice on one hand, it itself is a work of art. Furthermore, although "Dr. Faustus" argues against magic, the actors on the stage need to make use of 'magic' to portray the morality tale of the fall of the scholar from Wittenberg. This confuses the question of what is good or bad in both plays, especially since the 'good' characters like the old man who counsels Faustus to repent, or Basil and Sybil in Wilde's work, are the weakest characters."
| |
|
"Caroline, or Change", 2007.
An analysis of the musical "Caroline, or Change" by Tony Kushner.
782 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 27.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper describes the story about an African-American maid, Caroline, who works for a Jewish family in Lake Charles, Louisiana in 1963. The paper discusses her relationship with the eight-year-old son, Noah. The paper portrays how the conflicts within and around Caroline create dramatic moments with strong social and racial themes. The paper points out that this was a period when the Civil Rights Movement was a very powerful and important event in the South.
From the Paper
"This is a wonderful story about an African American maid, Caroline, who works for a Jewish family in humid Lake Charles, Louisiana. Caroline is very tired of being stuck in the basement of the Gellman home, doing laundry, and meanwhile, she and the eight-year-old Gellman boy, Noah, form a relationship that is edgy, cross-cultural, but very interesting. Noah looks up to Caroline a lot, in fact he idolizes her; but even though she likes him, she is gruff with him. She lets him smoke cigarettes with her, and they form a bond in that way. "Caroline never tells me so but I know Daddy mustn't know," Noah says (15). "A secret her and me can share: Our daily cigarette...""
| |
|
Reversal of Nature in "Macbeth", 2007.
An analysis of the theme of malignant deeds and their affect on nature, as seen in "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare.
1,344 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the main theme of William Shakespeare's play, "Macbeth" as the reversal of values and of nature itself, triggered by the evil actions and murders of Macbeth and his wife. The paper presents quotes from scenes in the play in order to illustrate this theme. It suggests that Shakespeare's play advocates that any kind of evil is a crime against nature itself, against human nature and against the divine order of the universe.
From the Paper
"The Tragedy of Macbeth is definitely Shakespeare's most violent play. The main theme of the play is the reversal of values and of nature itself, triggered by the evil actions and murders of Macbeth and his wife. The reversal of the natural order is announced from the introductory lines of the play, in the discourse of the three witches: "Fair is foul, and foul is fair"(1.1.12) The main plot of the play, the killing of Duncan, the king of Scotland, is a common subject for tragedy during the Renaissance age, and a recurrent one in Shakespeare's plays. The belief that royalty was foreordained by divinity explains why the act of murdering a king was considered as a reversal of order and of values. When the murder is done, the old man significantly proclaims it as "unnatural", comparing it to the killing of a falconer by an owl. Thus, throughout the play, there are direct hints to the reversal of nature caused by the dreadful murders, as well as descriptions that reveal absolute natural disorder, like the sun's refusal to shine for example. The murderous acts are seen thus as a menace against the basic order of the universe itself."
| |
|
"An Enemy of the People" versus "Inherit the Wind", 2007.
A comparison of the main themes and characters in "An Enemy of the People," written by Henrik Ibsen and "Inherit the Wind," written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee.
954 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 33.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper compares two plays - "An Enemy of the People," written by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen in 1882 and "Inherit the Wind," written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert Edwin Lee in 1950. It discusses the main themes of the plays and analyzes the main characters. It describes how these characters fit into the theme of the clash of good versus evil.
From the Paper
"Narrow-mindedness, the play suggests, is the true crime, but to win, all protagonists must to some degree display some of this quality. Drummond as an attorney must focus on winning in the courtroom, or at least in the courtroom of American popular opinion, not upon showing two sides of the issue. He calls for progress and for Hillsboro to "abandon our faith in the pleasant poetry of Genesis," thus reinforcing Hornbeck's portrayal of Hillsboro and Brady as behind the times, even if Drummond personally sees merit in the town's way of life and Brady's point of view. But there is no 'pure' way to win a political battle, without hurting someone. If someone is too single-minded, they risk harming and alienating people like Stockmann harms his family's livelihood, and like Brady at the end of "Inherit the Wind," who alienates most of the newspaper-reading American public. To gain a moral victory like Drummond for his client, an advocate must sometimes act against his own better, moral impulses, like making his courtroom opponent seem like a fanatic in the interests of persuasion."
| |
|
Tragedy in Drama, 2007.
This paper analyzes the tragedies in Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" and Sophocles' "Oedipus the King."
1,332 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper attempts to define tragedy as these two works illustrate tragic characters and tragic plots. The paper relates that tragic drama involves a tragic hero, an insurmountable situation and a conclusion that is neither satisfying nor cheerful. The paper shows how the characters of Willy Loman and Oedipus are extremely tragic; not because of their fates, but because of their flaws. The paper examines and compares Willy Loman and his wasted life and Oedipus and his tragic mistakes.
From the Paper
"In Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, Willy Loman is a classic tragic hero. He is not "near-perfect" as Aristotle's definition requires, but he does evoke pity and fear in his family and in the audience. He is desperate to save his personal dignity, at least in front of his family, and this is an important element in Miller's definition. In addition, his life is tragic, which translates into the tragic plot element of the play. His son Biff is really the only one who understands Willy, and he muses near the end of the play, "He had the wrong dreams. All, all wrong" (Miller, 2962, p. 1054). The wrong dreams and the wrong way of pursing them leads to Willy's tragic end, as it does in Oedipus the King."
| |
|
Clytemnestra's Role, 2007.
An analysis of Clytemnestra's role in Aeschylus' "Oresteia."
2,329 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper provides a brief overview of the "Oresteia," a three part cycle of plays that include the Agamemnon, the Choephoroe and the Eumenides. The paper portrays how Clytemnestra's role is ultimately one of a weak woman in society; although she is queen and is very persuasive, she remains unsuccessful in the end.
Outline:
Introduction
Brief Overview of the Oresteia
The Role of Clytemnestra
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The Oresteia is a three part cycle of plays; the Agamemnon, the Choephoroe, and the Eumenides. The Agamemnon sets the tone for the role Clytemnestra plays as a woman whose advice and words are completely disregarded by her husband. In the Agamemnon, Clytemnestra is deceived by her husband, Agamemnon, into sending him their youngest daughter Iphigenia. Agamemnon cuts Iphigenia's throat on an alter as a sacrifice. Furthermore, Clytemnestra's advice to respect the defeated Trojan temples and people is deliberately disregarded by Agamemnon, and the city is wildly looted, destroyed and burned. Clytemnestra finally kills Agamemnon after the Trojan War, when he brings home a raped and captured Trojan priestess."
| |
|
"Othello", 2007.
An analysis of the theme of poor communication between members of the opposite gender in William Shakespeare's play, "Othello."
1,249 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 42.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses William Shakespeare's play, "Othello." It particularly focuses on the theme of the breakdown of communication between men and women. The paper suggests that the play is about this breakdown in gender relations, more than it is a play about race. The paper presents many examples from the play to demonstrate lack of trust and communication between members of the opposite gender, in order to illustrate this theme.
From the Paper
"This equation of the female body with male honor is seen early on in the play, as well as the difficulty for men and women to communicate effectively. Desdemona's own father cannot see that his daughter is falling in love with Othello, even though he saw it happen before his very eyes, in his own house. Brabatino says his daughter must be seduced by Othello's witchcraft because she was: "A maiden never bold;/Of spirit so still and quiet, that her motion/Blush'd at herself; and she, in spite of nature,/Of years, of country, credit, every thing,/To fall in love with what she fear'd to look on!" (1.3) When Brabatino learns that there was no witchcraft afoot, it is he, rather than Iago, who places the first seeds of doubt in Othello's mind about Desdemona's potential future transgressions: "Look to her, Moor, if thou hast eyes to see:/She has deceived her father, and may thee" (1.3)."
| |
|
Symbolism in "The Glass Menagerie", 2007.
An analysis of Tennessee Williams' successful use of symbolism and imagery in his play, "The Glass Menagerie."
1,711 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the play "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams. Specifically, it discusses symbolism and imagery in the play and shows how Williams successfully employs symbolism to make the characters more real and the message of the play clearer. It concludes that Williams uses these literary devices to create a poignant and significant piece of American literature.
From the Paper
"In conclusion, this famous play is full of rich symbolism and imagery, which are quite common elements of William's writing. The use of these literary elements makes the play richer, more memorable and poignant. The characters are memorable, but the way Williams weaves the symbolism and imagery around them to create texture and even light, creates a complex drama that touches readers and makes it linger in their minds. It also makes the characters more real and compelling to the reader. The images and symbolism add depth and detail to the people and the plot of the play. When the candles go dim at the end, the audience senses the real tragedy of the play. Nothing is sure, and hope is often only an illusion. "The Glass Menagerie" could be a symbol of all the hopeless lives spent living "trapped in circumstance.""
| |
|
"Richard III" and "Henry IV", 2007.
An analysis of the lying and cheating of the main characters in William Shakespeare's historical plays, "Richard III" and "Henry IV."
1,356 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses and analyzes William Shakespeare's historical plays, "Richard III" and "Henry IV." It discusses the characters of Richard III, formerly the Duke of Gloucester, and Falstaff, prince Hal's friend. The paper specifically focuses on their negative characteristics, such as lying and how they used lying to achieve their goals. The paper presents examples from both plays to illustrate the extent of each character's lying.
From the Paper
"During this conflict, Henry shows his bitterness at not having his eldest son, prince Hal to help him in the military matters. Hal is, at this time, with a group of rogues and villains who accompany him in his unlawful actions. Falstaff is the most famous of these, and seems to be Shakespeare's best known personification of falseness (a word from which his name is undoubtedly derived) lying and deceit. Falstaff uses dissembling as a means to achieve both fortune and fame, pretending even to have killed Hotspur in the battle. But even more so, he achieves through permanent lying to create almost a myth about himself, arguing through such skilled rhetoric that he even overtake Richard III, that honor and morality are of no use whatsoever and that they lose their value as soon as they are opposed to the only true thing there is: life."
| |
|
"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, $ 48.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
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."
| |
|
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, $ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
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."
| |
|
'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, $ 41.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
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."
| |
|
"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, $ 33.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
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."
| |
|
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, $ 43.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
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."
| |
|
"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, $ 46.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
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)."
|
|
|
