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Christian Dystopia in Green and Dostoevsky, 2008.
A comparison of Graham Green's "The Last Word" and Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Notes from the Underground".
1,234 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 42.95
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Abstract
The paper shows how Green in the "The Last Word" and Dostoevsky in "Notes from the Underground" both use a single character's life to illustrate the meaninglessness of modern existence. The paper highlights the presence of faith that shaped the lives and the works of both authors and points out the similarities in the style and use of narrative structure in both works.
From the Paper
"Both Greene and Dostoevsky construct short works, rather than long, large sprawling novels as was the fashion in the 19th century. Their studies in the dangers of attempting to create an anti-Christian or post-Christian utopia are short, concentrated intense works that focus on the consciousness of a single individual. The authors, to render a sharp portrait or case study, frequently deploy stream-of-consciousness and fragmented narrative to reinforce what they believed to be ancient, eternal truths."
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Poe and Psychology, 2008.
A discussion on the meaning of evil in the lives of the characters of Edgar Allan Poe's novels, "The Imp of the Perverse", "The Black Cat "and "The Tell-Tale Heart".
1,449 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the roles of the leading characters in three of Edgar Allan Poe's books, "The Imp of the Perverse", "The Black Cat "and "The Tell-Tale Heart". The paper notes that in all three books Poe connects a logical and rational argument with an irrational plot. The paper discusses how, without motive, the main characters exhibit all acts of evil while participating in horrific crimes. The paper concludes that the stories written by Edgar Allan Poe always combine the psychological with the supernatural, hinting at the connection between the human psyche and some hidden forces of the universe.
From the Paper
"Evil is therefore inextricably related to irrationality, and therefore almost uncontrollable. Although psychoanalysis had not been born yet in Poe's time, it is obvious that the writer's psychological investigation of evil is very deep. Poe recognizes the influence of the subconscious over the human reason, and many times, its overwhelming power. He compares the man sitting on the edge of a precipice with someone who is ready to plunge into his own irrationality and obey his darkest impulses: "And because our reason violently deters us from the brink, therefore do we the most impetuously approach it. There is no passion in nature so demoniacally impatient as that of him who, shuddering upon the edge of a precipice, thus meditates a plunge. To indulge, for a moment, in any attempt at thought, is to be inevitably lost."(Poe, 296) This simile between the free plunge into the abyss and the modern definition of the subconscious gulf underlying our minds reveals Poe as a predecessor of psychoanalysis."
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Selected Poetry, 2008.
A review of a collection of poems by various poets.
6,214 words (approx. 24.9 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 145.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses various poems by a variety of poets. The poems referred to are poems of social comment and also of experimentation. The paper looks at how the poems discusses experiment with language, meter, rhyme, and rhythm as well as subject matter and so constitute a revolutionary expression as well as often a call for revolution.
From the Paper
"Another influence on the socially conscious has been the changing nature of criticism. Any specific type of criticism provides a certain perspective on literature, serving to focus the argument and often to set forth criteria by which to judge given works. No one school of criticism should be seen as definitive, for all by their very nature focus the argument on a narrowed spectrum compared to the possible areas of inquiry and types of approach possible. For instance, Feminist Criticism serves the useful purpose of redirecting critical inquiries in a direction that has been ignored for far too long, offering a female point of view and suggesting ways in which society has stifled that point of view in the real world and in literature."
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Insight to Lyndon Johnson, 2008.
This paper discusses and compares the portrayal of Lyndon B. Johnson in the works 'The Path to Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson' by Robert Caro and 'Lone Star Rising' by Robert Dallek.
4,053 words (approx. 16.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 109.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that Lyndon B. Johnson is known to have been a hard-nosed smooth-operating arm-twisting Senator from Texas who became John Kennedy's Vice President and then a one-term President. The writer points out that two works, Robert Caro's 'The Path to Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson', and Robert Dallek's 'Lone Star Rising', present Johnson as a relatively power-mad political genius who manipulated others with great aplomb. In looking at how each of these two authors take on the topic of Johnson, it is significant to note that both authors have created multi-volume works on LBJ, both have spent enormously in terms of time and resources to flesh out their stories and to find insight into the man, and both approach Johnson from a motivational point of view. The writer discusses that there are marked differences in style, observations, selections of facts, perspectives and intentions within the works. The writer concludes that these two books create different visions of Johnson while each treading the very same ground as the other.
From the Paper
"The differences between the two authors actually get in the way of an accurate understanding of some of the major events of Johnson's reign. Caro's work, though thoroughly researched, is exceptionally simplified - essentially portraying Johnson's moral compass as consisting of an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the other. The characterizations of Johnson in Caro's work can lead the reader to think of Johnson as being of limited capacity for thoughtful or intellectual accomplishment driven only to succeed through any means possible. We see a Johnson often reduced to a single word descriptor that serves only to simplify Johnson as being two dimensional at times. In his defense, however, Caro's clear purpose is to show Johnson as being controlled by his passions and ambitions, which would naturally reduce a person to a relatively few necessary personality traits. The additional problem facing Caro's work is that he does not have a PhD, and is otherwise academically not qualified to write such an extensive set of texts - at least an academic critic would look at the work through a less forgiving eye. Caro's work is based almost entirely upon massive numbers of interviews he conducted with people directly involved with Johnson at varying points in his career."
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"Moby Dick" and the Concept of Fate, 2008.
An analysis of Herman Melville's novel "Moby Dick" in the literary tradition where nature is seen as a symbol for fate.
1,177 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the prevalent theme of fate in the novel "Moby Dick," by Herman Melville. The writer points out that the whale as a symbol of fate goes back to the story of Jonah and that the tradition of using nature as a symbol of fate started in the book of Job. Much of the symbolism in the novel is religious in character and the writer draws several parallels with the book of Job. The writer concludes that trying to distinguish good from evil and keeping faith in achieving the good even in the midst of unnecessary evil is what makes one human and makes life meaningful, and that this is the message of "Moby Dick."
From the Paper
"One of the prevalent questions in the book is "what happens if Ahab actually catches the white whale? In this sense, if the whale was caught, Ahab's purpose of life would be accomplished, thus meaning his life would no longer have a purpose. However, the whale is not caught, thus showing that people in general always need something to reach for in life. Further, this concept of the unattainable white whale shows that a life goal can destroy one if it is allowed to take over all other worldly concerns. This occurs in the situation of Ahab and is symbolized in the book when he throws his pipe overboard, as the pipe symbolized happiness to Ahab."
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'The Jungle', 2008.
This paper explains how Upton Sinclair's book 'The Jungle' describes conflict theory in the context of early American immigration.
833 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that Upton Sinclair's 1908 novel 'The Jungle' reflects the burgeoning interest in Marxism and socialism in the US that took root during the Industrial Revolution. Moreover, the writer points out that the novel testifies to the disillusionment with the American Dream experienced by scores of immigrants like the Lithuanian family in Sinclair's novel. The writer discusses that, in the novel, Jurgis Rudkus's transition from idealistic young immigrant to a convict also exemplifies conflict theory. The corruption in business and city politics are the source of Jurgis' deviant behaviors: his heavy drinking and his repeated criminal assaults. The writer maintains that the class conflicts that Sinclair describes in 'The Jungle' are irreconcilable without wholesale changes to the structures and institutions that govern social norms in America.
From the Paper
"As immigrants, Rudkus and his family also created a Lithuanian subculture in Chicago. Language was one way the family remained cohesive. The Lithuanian immigrants attempted to preserve their social customs such as marriage rituals. Yet all the family members were constrained by sheer survival: the need to earn a living. Lithuanian wedding guests could not afford to uphold wedding customs from the old country. They were losing social cohesion because of financial strain, and that lack of social cohesion weakened the immigrant community. Immigrant communities became less cohesive and more focused on individualistic survival, leading to a breakdown in mores, values, and norms. Almost all the family members worked in deplorable conditions and for corrupt labor bosses including the women. The urban migrations that occurred around the turn of the century led to anomie, Durkheim's theory explaining the dissolution of values and social norms. "
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Monkey and Gilgamesh, 2008.
This paper discusses and compares the ancient characters of Gilgamesh and the Monkey King.
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that when comparing the ancient heroes Gilgamesh and the Monkey King the similarities in both characters are surprising and intriguing in nature. The parallels are interesting because the two stories have much the same theme but were written on two separate continents during two distinctly separate eras, yet the themes of both stories sound eerily familiar. The writer points out that Gilgamesh is the world's first super-hero and the reader discovers the stories of his fantastic deeds on tablets dating back to approximately 2000 BC. Monkey is also described in a super-human manner and as a being that acquires super-human skills. The writer concludes that both stories allow the reader to understand and carefully comprehend the ancient message of what we, as human beings, will endure if we believe the reward is big enough. The similarities of the goals and objectives from both stories leads the reader to believe that perhaps mankind is much more closely aligned than some experts would have us believe.
From the Paper
"In both the story of Gilgamesh and the story of Monkey, each hero travels on a journey that could be described as a journey of life. It is interesting to note that both characters begin their journey by displaying the 'bad' side of their particular character. Both heroes initially oppress their followers, but as they travel this 'life' journey they both evolve into super-heroes that help their people rather than oppress them.
"Both characters are also seeking fortune and redemption on their journeys, yet the tone of both stories could not be more different. This difference could be primarily due to the culture and traditions of the people the stories originated from."
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Imagery in "The Chrysanthemums", 2008.
An analysis of the symbolic imagery in "The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck.
1,616 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
The paper analyzes the use of nature, clouds, fog and the central image of the flowers in "The Chrysanthemums" and how they serve to convey the book's central theme about the search for identity and meaning. The paper examines the main character in the story, Elisa Allen, and shows how the imagery portrays her lack of personal fulfillment.
From the Paper
"John Steinbeck's "The Chrysanthemums" which was published in 1938, is usually described as a story about an unhappy marriage. However, the significance and meaning of this work, I would suggest, is much more subtle than this description would allow. The central theme of the story is the search for self-identity and meaning in life. This search for meaning is conveyed in the story largely by the creation of atmosphere, symbols and symbolic imagery that creates or evokes a sense of suppression and oppression, which contributes to the central theme of the denial of individuality and individual expression."
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The Bhagavad-Gita's Philosophy, 2008.
An examination of the lessons taught by the Bhagavad-Gita, the first-century B.C. Hindu Sanskrit poem.
1,129 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the Bhagavad-Gita's philosophy of reconciliation of divinity with earthly responsibility. It discusses how the Bhagavad-Gita, the first-century B.C. Hindu Sanskrit poem describes salvation in the afterlife as described by Krishna (God) to the Pandava warrior Arjuna on the eve of an important battle. The paper describes the lessons learned from the poem.
From the Paper
"Arjuna's fighting in this battle then, which he wishes, rationally, not to do but which Krishna illustrates that he must, is but a part of the multiple cycles of life and death that the warrior prince has yet to complete on the way, ultimately, to his final state of nirvana. While Krishna does not deny to Arjuna the importance of earthly rationality, Krishna nevertheless shows Arjuna how Arjuna's current resistance to fighting on this battlefield, based on earthly attachment, must be overcome in order to eventually reach nirvana, the ultimate spiritual state of mind within which all further reincarnations cease."
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Mythology in "Moby Dick", 2008.
An examination of "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville and its mythological references to horrible creatures.
710 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the common themes in mythology reflecting the fears, emotions and flaws of the human mind as well as the classic struggle against horrible creatures with the power and potential to destroy those who are unfortunate enough to cross paths with the beasts. The paper specifically focuses on the mythological story of "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville. It discusses not only Moby Dick as a horrible creature, but also the obsession that Ahab has with the whale and his view of it as the root of all evil in the world.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Ahab's Obsession Explained
What Moby Dick Represents Symbolically
Moby Dick as Mythological Creature
Conclusion
From the Paper
"More than just a whale, even the most horrible whale that ever existed, Moby Dick symbolizes much more in this story. Again, Ahab has made the whale the symbol of all of the problems he has ever encountered, and feels that by killing the whale, he will gain true emotional freedom. Obviously, it is impossible for a whale to have caused all of these problems for a human being, but in portraying the whale this way, Ahab is also shown as a symbol in himself. In this instance, Ahab can be viewed as all of the hatred and ignorance of man, represented in one physical being. If, as is intended, the story of "Moby Dick" is to be interpreted as mythology, then Ahab can be seen as a symbol for negative human emotions and reactions to the world around them, just as much earlier tales of mythology used various gods and even inanimate objects or forces of nature to represent something else."
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"Moby Dick", 2008.
An analysis of the symbols of good and evil in Herman Melville's "Moby Dick".
1,329 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper shows how the presence of good and evil in "Moby Dick" is best represented and personified by the two major characters, Ishmael and Captain Ahab. The paper illustrates how young Ishmael is the symbol of goodness, paradoxically aligned with Ahab who, although he tries to establish himself as a hero, is essentially evil.
From the Paper
"According to Melville scholar John Bryant, commenting in Ungraspable Phantom: Essays on Moby Dick, the Old Testament Hebrew word for "good" refers to that which "gratifies the senses and which gives aesthetic or moral satisfaction," while the New Testament Greek word means "moral or physical quality and sometimes that which is noble, honorable, admirable and worthy," 1 a reference to specific traits held by a human being which are expressed via his/her psychological makeup and how one behaves under ordinary and at times extraordinary circumstances. In contrast, William S. Glein, writing in The Meaning of Moby Dick, declares that "evil" comes from the root Hebrew meaning "to spoil. . . to break into pieces and so make worthless which binds together both the evil deed and its consequences.""
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Spirituality in "Moby Dick", 2008.
An analysis of the perspective on religion in "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville.
806 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper shows how, although "Moby Dick" is ostensibly about whaling and the whaling industry, much of the text is about the religious and spiritual search for meaning. The paper discusses the use of Biblical names and the symbolism throughout the book and concludes that whatever position one takes about the deeper meaning and mystery of this novel, "Moby Dick" will remain a much debated work.
From the Paper
"The religious aspects of the book are also furthered by the use of Biblical names. These names have direct reference to the Bible and to the central theme of the search for spiritual meaning. For example, Ishmael is, in a spiritual and existential sense, in exile or separated from the conventional understanding of religion. He rejects the conventional religious views of the society in which he lives and his decision to go to sea in a symbolic act, which refers to the need to search for meaning and God."
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Women as Birds in "The Awakening", 2008.
An analysis of the status of women in Kate Chopin's book "The Awakening."
1,212 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
The paper looks at Kate Chopin's book "The Awakening," that demonstrates how women were dictated by a patriarchal system and were known only for their responsibility in marriage and in motherhood. The paper discusses the character of Adele Ratignolle and focuses on Edna Pontellier who encaged herself like a parrot by becoming a wife and a mother without especially wanting to be one. The paper then looks at how Edna becomes torn between her obligations and responsibilities and her newfound freedom.
From the Paper
"During the Victorian Period, women, as exemplified by those in the Creole society, were deemed second-class citizens. Once married, they were expected to give all their property and rights to their husbands and be at the beck and call of their partner's wishes. The purpose of the woman was to be mother, homemaker and wife. Those were her sole duties in life. In Kate Chopin's book The Awakening, women were thus seen simply as exotic birds who are domesticated only for the sake of their beauty and ability to repeat over and over again words and phrases for which they have no understanding."
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"Perceval", 2008.
An examination of the written version of the legend of "Perceval," published by French writer, Chretien de Troyes.
1,557 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the legend of "Perceval," which grew in popularity when the French writer Chretien de Troyes published a popular written version in both France and Britain. The paper focuses on the content and the plot of the legend as it was written down. The paper also briefly discusses the history of its writing, particularly the fact that de Troyes did not complete it.
From the Paper
"The adventure of Perceval is similar to that of many other knights in these legends, beginning with the journey and the tests the hero must pass. This includes the need to maintain chastity, a test Perceval passes when he "has a close call with sexual temptation: slipping into bed with a demon in alluringly feminine form, he is only saved when his glance falls on the red cross inscribed on his sword pommel. The 'lady' and her silk tent disappear in a flash and a puff of smoke, leaving the tell-tale sulphurous stench of hell. A distraught Perceval stabs himself through the left thigh in penance" (Kaeuper 258). Such ability to resist is the mark of a knight, though many of the stories also suggest that the knight often fails this test at some point and then has to do penance to make up for his failure."
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"The Heart of Darkness", 2008.
This paper discusses and analyzes the work "The Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad.
1,013 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces and analyzes the novel "The Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad. Specifically, the writer identifies one possible theme in the novel and explains how Conrad nurtures and presents this theme in the text. The writer discusses that Conrad's novel is a scathing critique on European imperialism in Africa and the evils of this corrupt and abusive practice. The writer concludes that the reader of "The Heart of Darkness" understands just what a horrible practice imperialism was, and how it changed the face of entire continents, seemingly overnight, all in the name of greed, avarice, and political power.
From the Paper
"Kurtz is driven to madness by the imperialistic attitudes of those around him, and his own greed for money via the ivory trade. He spends his life in the jungle, searching for ivory and coming to know the natives, who think he is a white God. He represents the very worst of imperialism, because he comes to know and understand the natives, and still he takes advantage of them. He loves their hero worship, and he trades for ivory with them, but he is still using them and leaving them with little or nothing in return, just as the Belgians leave the Congo when they have taken all they can get from the country and the people."
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