Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Photos Cited - 1984

Atomic Bomb Hiroshima. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://whyfiles.org/020radiation/images/mushroom.jpg.

Charlemagne. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.searchingthescriptures.net/main_pages/articles/instrumental_music_in_church/artwork/charlemagne.jpg.

New Harmony Utopia. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/New_Harmony_by_F._Bate_%28View_of_a_Community%2C_as_proposed_by_Robert_Owen%29_printed_1838.jpg.

Oliver Cromwell. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://endiscomingblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/oliver_cromwell_1599_1658_hi.jpg.

Pyramid of Capitalist System. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Pyramid_of_Capitalist_System.png.

Rumpelstiltskin. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.surlalunefairytales.com/illustrations/rumpelstiltskin/images/crane_rumple1.jpg.

Saint Sebastian. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.artchive.com/artchive/r/rubens/rubens_st_sebastian.jpg.

Thomas Nast. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.gho-englisch.de/Archive/2004/Feb_04/nast_thomas.jpg.

Works Cited - 1984

"BBC - History - Historic Figures: Oliver Cromwell (1599 - 1658)." BBC - Homepage. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/cromwell_oliver.shtml.

Bellis, Mary. "History of the Atomic Bomb and The Manhattan Project." Inventors. Web. 11 May 2010. http://inventors.about.com/od/astartinventions/a/atomic_bomb.htm.

"Capitalism." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010. Web. 11 May 2010  http://www.search.eb.com.prxy2.ursus.maine.edu/eb/article-9020150.

"Charlemagne | King of the Franks | Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire." Lucidcafé Interactive Café and Information Resource. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.lucidcafe.com/library/96apr/charlemagne.html.

"The History of Plastic Surgery, ASPS and PSEF." American Society of Plastic Surgeons: The Resource for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/About_ASPS/History_of_Plastic_Surgery.html.

"Inquisition." Inicio. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.bibliotecapleyades.net/vatican/vatican_holyinquisition02.htm.

"The Neolithic Age." March of the Titans. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.white-history.com/hwr3.htm.

Online, Catholic. "St. Sebastian - Saints & Angels." Catholic Online. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=103.

"Oranges and Lemons Rhyme." Nursery Rhymes Lyrics, Origins and History. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.rhymes.org.uk/oranges_and_lemons.htm.

"Proletariat." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010. Web. 26 Apr. 2010  http://www.search.eb.com.prxy2.ursus.maine.edu/eb/article-9061526.

"Study Guide for Rumpelstiltskin." Index. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.marilynkinsella.org/Study%20Guides%20and%20info/Study%20Guide%20for%20Rumpelstiltskin.htm.

"Thomas Nast."  The Civil War. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.sonofthesouth.net/Thomas_Nast.htm.

"Utopia." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010. Web. 3 May 2010  http://www.search.eb.com.prxy2.ursus.maine.edu/eb/article-9074563.

"Utopia." THE BRITISH LIBRARY - The World's Knowledge. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.bl.uk/learning/histcitizen/21cc/utopia/utopia.html.

"What Is Class." Class Action. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.classism.org/WhatIsClass.php.

"Who Killed Cock Robin Rhyme." Nursery Rhymes Lyrics, Origins and History. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.rhymes.org.uk/who_killed_cock_robin.htm.

The Inquisition

“In the Middle Ages there was the Inquisition.” (Page 329)

Inquisition is a term used to describe the institutions established by the Roman Catholic church centuries ago to combat or suppress heresy. Beginning in the twelfth century and even earlier, the Roman Catholics, who are known for their strict formalities, were very concerned with individuals who bore any controversial or novel religious beliefs and thus felt compelled to persecute them for their so called “heretics.” The Inquisition, it is said, was not used solely to “punish and correct” those with varying beliefs, but also to invoke “terror” in the public in order to “wean them away from the evils they would commit.” Orwell chose to include this reference because of its resemblance to Big Brother. Both institutions are described as being devoted to ridding the world of nonconformists. While the Inquisition sought to convict heretics, Big Brother seeks to convict thought criminals. This allusion alone leads the reader to believe that Orwell was essentially creating a modern day Inquisition.

"Inquisition." Inicio. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.bibliotecapleyades.net/vatican/vatican_holyinquisition02.htm.

Utopianism



“...the Utopianism of past ages.” (Page 279)

A utopia is essentially a perfect world, an ideal society that possesses a seemingly perfect social, political, and legal system. For centuries, human beings have dreamt of establishing such idealistic worlds with no conflict, hunger, or anguish. Whether or not this type of society is realistically possible has been the subject of debate. Although there have been countless attempts throughout history to establish utopias, with Socialism being one of the more prominent, such visionary reform has been deemed practically impossible or impossibly idealistic. Orwell references utopianism in order to create a contrast between it and the dystopian society he has established in 1984. Like other parts of history, utopias are made to be considered a thing of the past which suggests that universal peace and happiness is inconceivable. Because Orwell sets up a dystopia, one that is evidently relentless, the reader is led to believe, like Winston does at the conclusion of the story, that life will continue in this way maintaining its negativity, warfare and a totalitarian government.

"utopia." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010. Web. 3 May 2010  http://www.search.eb.com.prxy2.ursus.maine.edu/eb/article-9074563.

"Utopia." THE BRITISH LIBRARY - The World's Knowledge. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.bl.uk/learning/histcitizen/21cc/utopia/utopia.html.

New Harmony Utopia. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/New_Harmony_by_F._Bate_%28View_of_a_Community%2C_as_proposed_by_Robert_Owen%29_printed_1838.jpg.

Social Class

“The aims of these three groups are entirely irreconcilable. The aim of the High is to remain where they are. The aim of the Middle is to change places with the High. The aim of the Low, when they have an aim...is to abolish all distinctions and create a society in which all men shall be equal.” (Page 277)

Since the beginning of human history, there has existed the concept of social class. Although the determining factors of class have changed over the years, the overall concept usually takes into consideration a person’s income and consequential wealth, education, and power. Social class is also usually dependent upon culture, and thus many countries, such as India with its caste system, still govern themselves based on their citizens’ social status. Despite the various differentiations that have occurred throughout history, class systems have invariably maintained the stereotypical “upper, middle, and lower” classes. The above description of social class is based on 1984’s society. Rather than being about occupation and income, as it is typically regarded, Orwell bases this class system on competition. While this excerpt hints that the society of the novel is somewhat similar to what we, as readers, are used to, it also shows how vastly different it is. Instead of having the upper and middle classes epitomize success, wealth or hard work, Orwell portrays these groups as being greedy (which, of course, relates to Big Brother’s mentality). Likewise, the lower class is portrayed as a group of revolutionaries instead of a group of poverty-stricken individuals.

"What Is Class." Class Action. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.classism.org/WhatIsClass.php.

The Atomic Bomb



“What is more remarkable is that all three powers already possess, in the atomic bomb, a weapon far more powerful than any that their present researches are likely to discover.” (Page 270)

The atomic bomb is considered to be the most powerful weapon known to man. In the midst of World War II, the United States Government undertook a very serious enterprise, “The Manhattan Project,” in which they became committed to perfecting the production of an atomic bomb. After countless tests, in 1945, two forms of the the fated nuclear weapon were used in warfare, one in Hiroshima and the other in Nagasaki. Although their detonations brought the close of the war, they introduced the term “weapons of mass destruction” and thus brought fear into the lives of many. Orwell includes this reference because of its cultural impact. It is interesting to point out that Orwell published this novel in 1949 making it obvious that the atomic bomb would be considered the most dangerous weapon seeing as how it had only been around for less than a decade. However, Orwell had enough forethought to realize that this technology was not going to be surpassed in the near future which explains why “present researchers [were not] likely to discover a weapon more powerful.”

Bellis, Mary. "History of the Atomic Bomb and The Manhattan Project." Inventors. Web. 11 May 2010. http://inventors.about.com/od/astartinventions/a/atomic_bomb.htm.

Atomic Bomb Hiroshima. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://whyfiles.org/020radiation/images/mushroom.jpg.

The Neolithic Age

“...since the end of the Neolithic Age...” (Page 260)

The Neolithic Age was a time of cultural prosperity that began sometime around 10,000 BC. This time period marked the end of the Stone Age and encompassed a development in human technology with crop cultivation and animal domestication - an overall rise in farming. Although Orwell references the Neolithic Age within Goldstein’s novel embedded in the plot of 1984, the allusion has a direct connection to Orwell’s dystopian society. Just as the Neolithic Age presented a new variance in culture with its shift from a society of hunter-gatherers to settled agriculturalists, the people of 1984 experience a shift from, as Winston remembers, free individuals to oppressed individuals. Orwell makes a point of showing that, similarly to how early humans lost their primitive instincts, the people of Oceania are forced into losing their former morals and actions.

"The Neolithic Age." March of the Titans. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.white-history.com/hwr3.htm.

Rumpelstiltskin



“A little Rumpelstiltskin figure, contorted with hatred...” (Page 257)

Rumpelstiltskin is a famous fairy tale which was first chronicled by the Brothers Grimm. It tells the story of a young woman who wants to marry a King; in order to do so, though, she must first spin straw into gold. A swindling character, Rumpelstiltskin, then arrives and agrees to complete the task, allowing the young woman to be wed to the King. However, he sets one stipulation: he will only do the job in exchange for the woman’s first-born child. Being a trickster, though, he says he will let her keep her child if she is able to guess his name. Believing this to be impossible, Rumpelstiltskin figures that he will triumph, but he is overheard saying his name aloud and is forced to return the child. Orwell makes an allusion to this mythical character because of his connection to Big Brother. Both characters believe themselves unstoppable. Like Rumpelstiltskin, Big Brother essentially tricks everyone into thinking and acting in a certain way. Instead of drawing a parallelism between these two characters, Orwell also points out the connection between the young woman and Winston. Both must defy the odds and find their way around these domineering individuals in order to free themselves.

"Study Guide for Rumpelstiltskin." Index. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.marilynkinsella.org/Study%20Guides%20and%20info/Study%20Guide%20for%20Rumpelstiltskin.htm.

Rumpelstiltskin. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.surlalunefairytales.com/illustrations/rumpelstiltskin/images/crane_rumple1.jpg.

Plastic Surgery

“Our surgeons can alter people beyond recognition.” (Page 250)

Although, today, plastic surgery is often linked to beautification and self-improvement, it was once used solely for restoration. For centuries such procedures as skin grafts have been performed, and as a result, the process has become “one of the world's oldest healing arts.” It wasn’t until the onset of war during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries that plastic surgery advanced both scientifically and medicinally. Developments in the field came with the increasing amounts of bodily wounds resulting from combat in both World War I and World War II. In addition to giving Winston comfort if ever he should be discovered, Orwell also includes this reference to hint at his own beliefs regarding the future. Although, at the time of 1984’s publication during the late 1940s, plastic surgery had improved significantly, the quality of the procedures was not nearly as advanced as it is today. This fact suggests that Orwell had considerable faith in future technologies and the innovations that would be made, something of which he was accurate about.

"The History of Plastic Surgery, ASPS and PSEF." American Society of Plastic Surgeons: The Resource for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/About_ASPS/History_of_Plastic_Surgery.html.

Who Killed Cock Robin?

“There was one about...the death of poor Cock Robin.” (Page 229)

The character alluded to here is the subject of the English poem, “Who Killed Cock Robin?” The poem is a personification of sorts of the death of legendary samaritan, Robin Hood. The words of the poem describe Cock Robin’s funeral procession and how help was offered from an array of sympathetic animals thus reflecting the high esteem in which the real Robin Hood was held by common folk. Orwell includes this allusion because of its relation to the death that Winston nearly encounters at the close of the novel. In the poem, Cock Robin’s killer is never explicitly described and remains a mystery. Likewise, in 1984, thought criminals are mysteriously seized from their homes and rarely seen again. In addition to this, one of the poem’s lines - “‘Who'll dig his grave?’ ‘I,’ said the Owl” - relates to the character, O’Brien, who is said to resemble an owl. It is likely that Orwell drew upon the fact that the Owl in this poem chooses to dig Cock Robin’s grave because, in the novel, O’Brien figuratively “digs” Winston’s “grave” as he tortures him for his thought crimes.

"Who Killed Cock Robin Rhyme." Nursery Rhymes Lyrics, Origins and History. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.rhymes.org.uk/who_killed_cock_robin.htm.

Oliver Cromwell



“...there was a statue of a man on horseback which was supposed to represent Oliver Cromwell.” (Page 195)

Oliver Cromwell was a seventeenth century English military and political leader. He is best known for his role as the first Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland following the execution of King Charles I. Although he grew up in the middle class, he managed to rise through the ranks and become an influential figure in the United Kingdom. As he did so, however, he became obsessed with power and prosecuted those not of the Protestant faith. Orwell includes this allusion because of Cromwell's connection to Big Brother. Like Cromwell, Big Brother is characterized by an obsession to maintain his power and control over his people and the opposing nations surrounding Oceania. Orwell also includes this allusion to show that even though Big Brother has a tendency to change the past, some things from history are kept, especially if they bear some relation to Big Brother’s ideals.

"BBC - History - Historic Figures: Oliver Cromwell (1599 - 1658)." BBC - Homepage. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/cromwell_oliver.shtml.

Oliver Cromwell. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://endiscomingblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/oliver_cromwell_1599_1658_hi.jpg.

Oranges and Lemons

“Oranges and lemons, say the bells of St. Clement’s!” (Page 178)

When a person looks back on their childhood, it is common for them only to have faint memories of their past rather than remembering moments with vivid detail. Instead of remembering the day they learned to walk or talk, they remember their favorite stuffed animal or tv show. With his inclusion of the nursery rhyme, “Oranges and Lemons,” Orwell draws upon the fact that sometimes the most nonsensical and seemingly unimportant parts of one’s life are, in fact, the most influential. This particular poem is frequently recited throughout the book, each time being added to with a new verse. At the end of each stanza, a different church is mentioned demonstrating, in Winston’s eyes, how the past has been completely manipulated by Big Brother seeing as how these once historical buildings are now nonexistent. One of the key reasons Orwell makes reference to “Oranges and Lemons” is because of the significance of the last line. “Here comes a candle to light you to bed / And here comes a chopper to chop off your head!” is directly related to Winston’s final day with Julia; he and Julia are essentially lured in, “lit to bed” if you will, only to be reprimanded by Big Brother, the metaphorical “chopper.”

"Oranges and Lemons Rhyme." Nursery Rhymes Lyrics, Origins and History. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.rhymes.org.uk/oranges_and_lemons.htm.

Rutherford - Thomas Nast



“Rutherford had once been a famous caricaturist, whose brutal cartoons had helped to inflame popular opinion before and during the Revolution.” (Page 158)

The person described in this quote, although it does not directly reference him, bears a striking resemblance to the famous American cartoonist, Thomas Nast. During the later 1800s, Thomas Nast became widely recognized for his outrageous cartoons which criticized and praised the politics of the time. Because he presented various social and economic topics in a visual format, he was able to reach a large audience, and in consequence, he had a major impact on American culture and history. Orwell makes this indirect parallelism between Rutherford and Nast in order to demonstrate how, even though they come from different time periods, popular culture is contingent upon individuals who stray from the norm or do something revolutionary. This is even seen in the protagonist with his denouncement of Big Brother. With his later description of Rutherford becoming an “unperson,” though, Orwell also shows how even some of the most influential individuals can go unnoticed similarly to how Thomas Nast is nearly forgotten today.

"Thomas Nast." The Civil War. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.sonofthesouth.net/Thomas_Nast.htm.

Thomas Nast. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.gho-englisch.de/Archive/2004/Feb_04/nast_thomas.jpg.

Capitalism



“Before the Revolution, they had been hideously oppressed by the capitalists...” (Page 153)

Capitalism is an economic system that is characterized by the private ownership of the means of production. Often times, this system is called a free market or free enterprise economy, and it has been the dominant sociopolitical structure in the Western world since the collapse of the feudalism around the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. Capitalism consists of wage labor, rather than self employment, where income is distributed through the operation of the market; the employees. It is interesting that Orwell creates a negative connotation for capitalism, describing it as being “hideously oppressing,” when in fact, the economy and social state of Oceania is clearly overpowering. Orwell purposely creates this irony in order to demonstrate how ill-informed the people of Oceania are. He also makes this reference to show that, although it is a modern society, Oceania has essentially reverted to older forms of government, like feudalism, by working for a single entity, Big Brother.

"capitalism." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010. Web. 11 May 2010  http://www.search.eb.com.prxy2.ursus.maine.edu/eb/article-9020150.

Pyramid of Capitalist System. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Pyramid_of_Capitalist_System.png.

Charlemagne



“...he would exist just as authentically, and upon the same evidence, as Charlemagne...” (Page 132)

Charlemagne is known historically to be the King of the Franks and the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire during the late eighth and early ninth centuries. At the time of his coronation, the kingdom of the Franks - an area located in western Europe - had fallen into a decline. Citizens of this empire had begun to readopt their barbaric tendencies and had begun to neglect religion and education. As a result, Charlemagne took it upon himself to strengthen his realm and bring order to Europe. By establishing a stable government, Charlemagne was able to restore much of the Roman Empire and was thus crowned emperor. During his lifetime, Charlemagne was able gain rule over what are now France, Switzerland, Belgium, and The Netherlands as well as parts of Italy, Germany, Austria, and Spain. Orwell includes this reference because like Charlemagne, Big Brother is determined to maintain order. Although Big Brother’s pretenses contrast with those of Charlemagne’s, the two are nonetheless similar. Orwell also references Charlemagne because of his vast empire which corresponds to Big Brother’s Oceania.

"Charlemagne | King of the Franks | Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire." Lucidcafé Interactive Café and Information Resource. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.lucidcafe.com/library/96apr/charlemagne.html.

Charlemagne. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.searchingthescriptures.net/main_pages/articles/instrumental_music_in_church/artwork/charlemagne.jpg.

The Place Where There Is No Darkness

“We shall meet in the place where there is no darkness.” (Page 111)

This excerpt, though vague when out of context, is very revealing of the protagonist. When it is first mentioned in the plot, it presents a mystery, especially since it is part of a dream that Winston has. When first read, this statement suggests a positive place void of any evils; a place without war or hunger. Later in the story, however, this statement takes on a different meaning. Rather than representing peace, “the place where there is no darkness” can be regarded as a place without shadows and thus an area where there is no secrecy. Contrary to Winston’s hopes of it being a place where he will be rid of Big Brother, the words from his dream coincide with the well-lit and heavily monitored cell that he is imprisoned in at the end of the story. Orwell includes this statement in order to give Winston not only a reason to question himself and the meaning of the statement, but also his relationship with O’Brien. Along with this quote, Orwell creates a society full of double meanings. This alone leads the reader to believe that, since he is immersed in a constant paradox, Winston should have had some sort of inkling about the implications of O’Brien’s words; good could have meant bad, a friend could have been an enemy, etc.

Saint Sebastian



"He would tie her naked to a stake and shoot her full of arrows like Saint Sebastian." (Page 101)

Saint Sebastian was a Christian who was martyred for the sake of his religious beliefs. After being named a captain of the praetorian guards, who were employed by Roman Emperors, Sebastian’s true faith was discovered. As a result, he was ordered to be executed and was shot with arrows and left for dead. On the verge of death, Sebastian was saved and, in so doing, he intercepted the Emperor and denounced him for his cruelty to Christians. This final stand against the Emperor demonstrated his faith, but he was nevertheless beaten to death for his actions. Orwell makes reference to this historical figure because of the parallelism that lies in his martyrdom and the persecution received by thought criminals. In the novel, Orwell makes it so that having complete faith in Big Brother is equivalent to believing in some sort of god. Due to this fact, those who do not value him, or do not love him, are tortured in a similar fashion as Saint Sebastian just because they bear varying beliefs.

Online, Catholic. "St. Sebastian - Saints & Angels." Catholic Online. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=103.

Saint Sebastian. Digital image. Web. 11 May 2010. http://www.artchive.com/artchive/r/rubens/rubens_st_sebastian.jpg.

The Proles

“...nobody cares what the proles say...” (Page 96)

Throughout history, the word proletariat (shortened by Orwell to emphasize his futuristic language of Newspeak) has been used to describe the lower, working class. Although it was regularly used to classify the poor during ancient Rome, it is more commonly connected to the class system of Marxism or Communism. The term itself designated the class of wage workers who earned an income primarily from doing manual labor. Despite them being hard workers, the proletariat often lived in poverty and were subject to being beggars and criminals. Orwell incorporates this class into his dystopian society simply because, in reality, there would always be a group of people who were considered destitute. Also, by including the “proles,” Orwell points out the fact that those who are not financially or socially stable often are disregarded. Later in the story, however, he counteracts this stereotypical attitude by claiming that “hope...lies in the proles,” a possible allusion to his personal opinion on equality.

"proletariat." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. Encyclopædia Britannica, 2010. Web. 26 Apr. 2010  http://www.search.eb.com.prxy2.ursus.maine.edu/eb/article-9061526.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Photos Cited - Pride and Prejudice

Being Knighted . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://api.ning.com/files/K5- L6xdAaUzQqCXzTILusirmCTQlCQtwj- RfiUQXtvb8w4lxkdmDB7WzEWkalro0F7TlCdsDwrWzCtfoQ8-2xEMUL- LKmghf/TeamOGearBeingKnighted.jpg.

Clergyman . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://barrymichaels.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/seelosseatedbrievary.jpg.

Judge . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.defreitasbooks.com/bookwebpics/picsVanity/AtoK/VPBramwell.jpg.

The Lakes District . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.britishandirishwalks.com/media/siteImages/gallery_images/LakeDistrict.jpg.

19th Century Dance. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.victoriana.com/Etiquette/
images/dancecouple5.jpg.

19th Century Medical Procedure . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.uh.edu/engines/medexpt.jpg.

Pianoforte . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://ellenandjim.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/pianoforte1.jpg.

Twelfth Night . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Orsino_and_viola_Frederick_Richard_Pickersgill.jpg.

Works Cited - Pride and Prejudice

"Biography: Alexander Chalmers on Rev. James Fordyce." English Poetry 1579-1830. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://spenserians.cath.vt.edu/BiographyRecord.php?action=GET&bioid=4587.

"A History of Education." A World History Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/education.html.

"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.

"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.

"History of Lake District Tourism." Free Articles Directory | Submit Articles - ArticlesBase.com. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/history-of-lake-district-tourism-534844.html.

"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.

"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.

"La Boulangere Dance - Streetswings Dance History Archives - Main Page." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3laboulngr.htm.

"Marriage in the Victorian Era." College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Florida. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/agunn/teaching/enl3251/vf/pres/ziegenfuss.htm.

"Medical Developments In Britain During The Nineteenth Century." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/science/health/health12.html.

"19th Century Music." Free Website Hosting Angelfire Free Website Templates to Make Your Own Free Website. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. .

"PROPERTY RIGHTS OF WOMEN." UM-Dearborn Home: University of Michigan-Dearborn. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/geweb/PROPERTY.htm.

"Twelfth Night Synopsis." Shakespeare Resource Center. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.bardweb.net/plays/twelfthnight.html.

"Victorian England." Department of English, UW Oshkosh. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.english.uwosh.edu/roth/VictorianEngland.htm.

"Victorian Occupations: Life and Labor in the Victorian Period as Seen by Artists, Writers, and Modern Historians." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/history/work/workov.html.


"Women's Status in mid 19th-century England." Lycos Tripod - Multimania. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://members.multimania.co.uk/HastingsHistory/19/overview.htm.

Lydia ~ Family Rivalry

“‘Ah! Jane, I take your place now, and you must go lower, because I am a married woman.’” (Page 300)

This quote serves multiple purposes. The first is to give some insight into women’s status during the 19th century. Unlike today, women had very few rights. Unable to truly establish themselves in society, they had little to do but get married and have children. Once married, women practically belonged to their husbands. Looking back on this time period, it seems odd that a girl would willingly let her life be controlled by her husband. Perhaps this is why Jane Austen chose never to marry. Another purpose of this quote is to show directly what type of character Lydia is; she is an immature and selfish girl who doesn’t think before she acts. In addition to this, Jane Austen includes this quote to show the commonality of family rivalry. During the 1800s, families were usually large and children were often close in age. As a result, it was ordinary for there to be frivolous bouts between siblings.

"Women's Status in mid 19th-century England." Lycos Tripod - Multimania. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://members.multimania.co.uk/HastingsHistory/19/overview.htm.

Marriage

“Her father, captivated by youth and beauty, and that appearance of good humor which youth and beauty generally give, had married a woman whose weak understanding and illiberal mind had, very early in their marriage, put an end to all real affection for her. Respect, esteem, and confidence had vanished forever, and all his views of domestic happiness were overthrown.” (Page 228)

Marriage, during the Victorian era, was far less romanticized than it is today. In most cases, love was considered unimportant. Marriages were often handled as though they were business deals, and as a result, relationships were more about friendship than intimacy. In Victorian society, there were also several guidelines to marriage. One of the most prominent rules was that people were encouraged to marry within their social class. It was generally frowned upon to marry a person from a lower class. Austen gives this information to show what was common for the time period. She uses Mr. Bennet as an example of a person marrying someone within their own class. She also uses him to show that even though a couple may not be completely in love, they can still be mutually content. This connects to Elizabeth and Darcy as well. Elizabeth begins with a negative outlook on Darcy, but she manages, in the end, to like and accept him. Their relationship essentially contradicts the social norm. Darcy chooses to marry someone below him, and their union has more to do with the affection they have for one another.

"Marriage in the Victorian Era." College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Florida. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/agunn/teaching/enl3251/vf/pres/ziegenfuss.htm.

Music


“‘Of music! Then pray speak aloud. It is of all subjects my delight.’” (Page 169)

Music was a very important part of nineteenth century culture. Along with theater, it was one the Victorian era’s chief forms of entertainment. The most popular styles of music included classical, orchestral music and folk music. Famous composers such as Johannes Brahms and Frederic Chopin flourished during this time period creating elegant waltzes and ballads. Much like today, music was incorporated into Victorian’s daily lives - at social gatherings and in their teachings. Austen references music because of how widespread it was during her time and because it had a profound effect on the general population. Austen mentions music several times throughout the novel to show how natural it is, not only to be familiar with it, but how to play it as well. This reflects Austen’s own life; throughout her childhood and adulthood, Jane Austen learned and practiced the pianoforte.

"19th Century Music." Free Website Hosting Angelfire Free Website Templates to Make Your Own Free Website. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.angelfire.com/ar3/townevictorian/victorianmusic.html.

"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.

Pianoforte. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://ellenandjim.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/pianoforte1.jpg.

Elizabeth and Darcy

“‘She looks sickly and cross.--Yes, she will do for him very well. She will make him a very proper wife.’” (Page 156)

This excerpt is key in showing how Elizabeth’s view toward Mr. Darcy has changed since their initial meeting. Throughout the novel, her attitude fluctuates. She goes from being intrigued by Darcy’s mysterious nature, to finding him detestable, to falling in love with him. Though she cannot seem to make up her mind, one thing is certain; she cannot prevent herself from thinking of him. From this, the reader observes that she is stern in her beliefs, yet biased (she likes him, but she doesn’t). I personally believe that Austen includes this remark in order to incorporate a little humor, not only into the novel, but into the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy. If this quote were not in the context that it is in, one would think that the speaker truly despised the person they were referring to. However, knowing that Elizabeth is speaking of Darcy, it seems to hold less weight. In fact, it seems that Elizabeth could be making this negative comment in order to avoid thinking of Darcy in a positive way.

The Lakes District



“‘We have not quite determined how far it shall carry us,’ said Mrs. Gardiner, ‘but perhaps to the Lakes.’” (Page 152)

The Lakes District is located in the mountainous region of northwestern England. For centuries this area has been a popular holiday destination. The region is steeped in history and is renowned for its stunning landscapes. During the 19th century, the Lakes District’s beautiful environment provided such poets as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey with the inspiration for some of their most famous works. Jane Austen references this picturesque area due to its cultural significance. Rather than travelling overseas, as is more common nowadays, people often retreated into the country when they went on holiday. Because transportation was not as advanced, though, travelling from Hertfordshire to the Lakes District would have been considered an extensive distance.

"History of Lake District Tourism." Free Articles Directory | Submit Articles - ArticlesBase.com. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/history-of-lake-district-tourism-534844.html.

The Lakes District. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.britishandirishwalks.com/media/siteImages/gallery_images/LakeDistrict.jpg.

Knighthood


“He could tell her nothing new of the wonders of his presentation and knighthood...” (Page 150)

In earlier times, being knighted was a considerable honor that meant far more than adorning one’s name with “sir”. In Great Britain, a person was often knighted if he demonstrated the ideal virtues of honor, chivalry, justice and compassion. Monarchs bestowed this honor on those who contributed in some way to the British Empire. Although it was not very easy, being knighted was one way a person could achieve nobility. It is interesting that Elizabeth finds Sir William Lucas the least bit engaging. One would expect that a person of such high nobility would be intriguing and not nearly as boring as Elizabeth seems to believe. Even though this could just be due to her familiarity with the knight, Austen may have included it for satirical purposes. This novel focuses primarily on the upper class, and it also emphasizes how a person’s reputation is key to their success. This excerpt contradicts this concept. By being uninterested in Lucas’ nobility, Elizabeth is, in a sense, ridiculing the upper class.

"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.

Being Knighted. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://api.ning.com/files/K5-L6xdAaUzQqCXzTILusirmCTQlCQtwj-RfiUQXtvb8w4lxkdmDB7WzEWkalro0F7TlCdsDwrWzCtfoQ8-2xEMUL-LKmghf/TeamOGearBeingKnighted.jpg.

Fordyce’s Sermons

“...after some deliberation he chose Fordyce’s Sermons.” (Page 67)

Fordyce’s Sermons, also know as Sermons to Young Women, was the most famous publication of Scottish clergyman Dr. James Fordyce. The book which was published in 1766 was a compilation of sermons that focused on women’s conduct. The book, being a collection of Fordyce’s personal opinions on how women should act and be treated, is considered to be extremely bias and demeaning to women. Following its publication, women began garnering social and political rights, and thus it quickly became outdated. Austen purposely has Mr. Collins choose this novel to read aloud in order to develop his character as being dimwitted, not very keen to his actions, and demoralizing. Among his many faults (his incessant talking about topics the Bennets find little intereset in, for one) this choice of reading material certainly does not help him in wooing Elizabeth.

"Biography: Alexander Chalmers on Rev. James Fordyce." English Poetry 1579-1830. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://spenserians.cath.vt.edu/BiographyRecord.php?action=GET&bioid=4587.

The Food of Love


“I have been used to consider poetry as the food of love,” said Darcy.” (Page 44)

“The food of love” is an allusion to a line from William Shakespeare’s play, Twelfth Night. This particular comedy includes the major theme of mistaken identity. In the play, the female protagonist, Viola, disguises herself as a man. In doing so, she becomes involved in a love triangle between her master, Duke Orsino, and his love interest, Olivia. Because, in the Duke’s eyes, Viola is a man, he only sees her for her outward appearance. Elizabeth views Darcy in a similar fashion. Rather than seeing his true, compassionate self, Elizabeth only sees the egotistical air that Darcy outwardly displays. Austen makes this reference in order to point out that first impressions are often false. This novel is filled with instances where certain characters are misled by first impressions. First impressions are so heavily emphasized throughout the story that Jane Austen even considered naming the book First Impressions rather than Pride and Prejudice.

"Twelfth Night Synopsis." Shakespeare Resource Center. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.bardweb.net/plays/twelfthnight.html.

Twelfth Night. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Orsino_and_viola_Frederick_Richard_Pickersgill.jpg.

Health


“‘She is a great deal too ill to be moved. Mr. Jones says we must not think of moving her.’” (Page 41)

People of the Victorian era were very concerned with their health. Sicknesses such as the common cold or influenza were of a much more serious nature than they are now. Because there had been few advancements made in medicine, little could be done when one took ill. In addition to limited medical developments, few doctors were adequately educated and thus were often not competent enough to give accurate diagnoses. Austen demonstrates the vitality of being healthy through her depiction of Jane’s illness. Although, to the reader, it is clear that Jane is suffering from a simple cold and fever, the entire affair is made out to be more severe than it actually is. Rather than returning home, which is only three miles away, Jane is advised to stay put at Netherfield. This portion of the novel alludes to when Jane Austen caught typhus fever when she was a young girl. Similarly as with Jane, great care was taken to keep her whilst she suffered from the dangerous illness.

"Medical Developments In Britain During The Nineteenth Century." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/science/health/health12.html.

"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.

19th Century Medical Procedure. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.uh.edu/engines/medexpt.jpg.

Family and Relationships

“Elizabeth, feeling really anxious, was determined to go to her, though the carriage was not to be had; and as she was no horse-woman, walking was her only alternative.” (Page 32)

Out of the many themes displayed in this novel, one of the most significant is the importance of family and relationships. Above any other pair of individuals within the book, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are by far the closest. Being the oldest and most respected of the Bennet daughters, it is clear that they have a very unique bond. It is apparent that they are more than just sisters, but best friends. Unlike their other sisters, they are intellectual and down to earth. Their similar qualities and their deep caring for one another causes their relationship to rival any other in the novel (Bingley’s and Darcy’s, Kitty’s and Lydia’s, etc.). This relationship is a direct allusion to Jane Austen’s own relationship with her sister Cassandra. Because Jane Austen had six brothers, she became incredibly close with her only sister. It is extremely likely that Austen modeled the character Jane after her sister because, like Jane toward Elizabeth, Cassandra was Jane’s confidante.

"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.

Respectable Professions



“Her father had been an attorney...She had a sister married to a Mr. Philips, who had been a clerk to their father, and succeeded him in the business, and a brother settled in London in a respectable line of trade.” (Page 29)

During the Victorian era, people were divided into classes chiefly by what types of occupations they had and their consequential incomes. Although many employed themselves as craftsmen and farmers, the most respectable (and often most highly paid) professions included judges, lawyers, and clergymen. In this novel, the reader becomes familiar generally with the upper class. Jane Austen was considered part of the gentry during her time period; her family was not of the highest social class but it was relatively well-to-do. With this in mind, it seems fitting that Austen would be able to write so easily about people with higher quality reputations. Although this particular excerpt discusses Mrs. Bennet’s background, it is key in demonstrating the importance of reputation. There are countless instances throughout the novel where reputation and class affect how people interact with one another (specifically Darcy toward Elizabeth).

"Victorian Occupations: Life and Labor in the Victorian Period as Seen by Artists, Writers, and Modern Historians." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/history/work/workov.html.

Judge. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.defreitasbooks.com/bookwebpics/picsVanity/AtoK/VPBramwell.jpg.

Clergyman. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://barrymichaels.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/seelosseatedbrievary.jpg.

Inheritance

“Mr. Bennet’s property...was entailed in default of heirs male...” (Page 29)

During the nineteenth century, women had little to no rights in the owning of property. Although it was possible for a woman to inherit land from her father, it was very rare. It was more common for a father to pass his property onto his son. In the case of their being no male descendant, property was often passed onto the closest male relative. If a female was to inherit land, it was often in the form of “personal property” which was essentially leased land or land governed by a lord. Males usually received what was referred to as “real property” which was actual land that they had control over. Being from this time period, Jane Austen probably alluded to this political and social affair merely because it was the natural ordinance of inheritance. In addition to this, it is clear that she mentions this in order to introduce Mr. Collins, the heir of Mr. Bennet’s property.

"PROPERTY RIGHTS OF WOMEN." UM-Dearborn Home: University of Michigan-Dearborn. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/geweb/PROPERTY.htm.

Pride

“‘...I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.’” (Page 21)

As would be expected, due to the title, one of the most important themes that Jane Austen employs in this novel is pride. From the interactions between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, the reader observes that both characters are prideful. The pride that each of these characters holds is not exhibited in a subtle way. From the very start Elizabeth allows her pride to hinder herself from seeing past Darcy’s cold demeanor. Likewise, Darcy’s pride hinders him from seeing Elizabeth as an equal. Rather than seeing each other, at first, for who they truly are, they put on a sort of impenetrable front. Because Austen characterizes Elizabeth and Darcy as being overly prideful, she enables another principal theme to come into play, prejudice. This impenetrable front (established from being prideful) leads to a person making bias judgments and irrational decisions.

Education

“They...had been educated in one of the first private seminaries in town.” (Page 17)

Seminaries are boarding schools that provide higher education for young women. Beginning in as early as the seventeenth century, boarding schools of this kind were founded in many towns throughout Great Britain. Although they proliferated over the course of two centuries, many were unable to afford sending their children to attend these schools. Instead, middle class children were often taught by their parents. Girls were usually taught the fundamental skills of being housewives. The children of the upper class were able to attend boarding schools. As an alternative to being sent to a seminary, upper class girls were also instructed by governesses. These privileged young women were commonly taught reading, writing, arithmetic, foreign language, and music. Austen includes this information in order to characterize the Bingley sisters as being respectable and simultaneously conceited. Most during this time period did not have the opportunity to acquire a decent education, and thus felt crossly about those who did. Having experienced both an education at home and at a boarding school, Jane Austen was likely familiar with those who, due to their high education and wealth, believed themselves “entitled to think well of themselves, and meanly of others.”

"A History of Education." A World History Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/education.html.

"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.

The Boulanger


“...the Boulanger.” (Page 15)

The Boulanger, or “La Boulangère” as it is known in French, was a common dance performed at social gatherings during the nineteenth century. It was tradition for this dance to come at the end of a ball. The dance consisted of gentlemen and their partners gathered in a circle. Couples would dance concentrically in one direction then return to their original places. Following this motion, the gentlemen would spin their partner then move on to their neighbors. When the gentlemen made their way around the circle, the entire dance would repeat. Austen includes this dance simply because of its cultural context. Dancing was one of the most common forms of entertainment during this time period, and it was the socially accepted thing to do. As Austen demonstrates, dancing provided the opportunity for many to interact as well as to show a person’s character; Bingley is perceived as amiable because of his participation where as Mr. Darcy is looked down upon due to his lack of interest.

"La Boulangere Dance - Streetswings Dance History Archives - Main Page." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3laboulngr.htm.

19th Century Dance. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.victoriana.com/Etiquette/images/dancecouple5.jpg.

Money

“...the report which was in general circulation within five minutes after his entrance, of his having ten thousand a year.” (Page 12)

During the early eighteen hundreds, it was somewhat uncommon to meet anyone with an annual income of ten thousand pounds or more. The individuals who made this type of money often assumed the professions of merchants, bankers, or aristocrats. The middle class during this time period, which consisted of such professions as doctors and clerks, generally made three hundred to eight hundred pounds per year. Austen describes the Bennet family as being sufficiently wealthy considering that they have an estate of two thousand pounds a year. This, by no means, classifies them as being part of the upper class, but it enables them to be on similar terms as those who have a higher income. By mentioning his estate, Austen immediately classifies Mr. Darcy as being part of the upper class. This, in turn, gives the reader an idea of what type of personality Mr. Darcy has; one of nobility and conceit. From this information, the reader can also conclude that the difference in wealth between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth may affect how they interact. Mr. Darcy’s wealth and consequential air certainly does not aid Elizabeth in making a first impression.

"Victorian England." Department of English, UW Oshkosh. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.english.uwosh.edu/roth/VictorianEngland.htm.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Photos Cited - Great Expectations

Cleopatra. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.divasthesite.com/images/Cleopatra/Cleopatra_intro.jpg.

The Furies. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.lordalford.com/mythology/Greeks/furies.jpg.

Hercules. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/06/115106-004-52333086.jpg.

King Hamlet's Ghost. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/38/John_Gilbert_-_Hamlet_in_the_Presence_of_His_Father%27s_Ghost.JPG.

King Richard III. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/61/3761-004-1DC88B8B.jpg.

The Mughal Empire. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/history-of-india2.gif.

Newgate Prison. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.hrionline.ac.uk/obp-wiki/images/e/e4/Newgate_prison_large.jpg.

Public Execution. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.executedtoday.com/images/William_Tyndale_execution.jpg.

Saint Clement. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.orthodoximages.com/images/icons/patrons/dingman/Clement_Ding6x8.jpg.

The Wandering Jew. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/60/Wandering_jew.jpg.

Works Cited - Great Expectations

"All About Jewish Theatre - European Jewish Theatre: From 1600 to the 20th Century." All About Jewish Theatre - Main Page. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.jewish-theatre.com/visitor/article_display.aspx?articleID=2632.

"BRITISH HISTORY THE STORY of FREEDOM LIBERTY! THE TIMELINE Freedom & justice go hand in hand." Brits at their Best. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.britsattheirbest.com/freedom/f_time_19th_1800_1833.htm.

"Catechism - definition of catechism by the Free Online Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia." Dictionary, Encyclopedia and Thesaurus - The Free Dictionary. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/catechism.

"CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Crusades." NEW ADVENT: Home. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04543c.htm.

"CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Literary or Profane Legends." NEW ADVENT: Home. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/09121a.htm#section10.

"Charles Dickens." UUA Server for Other Organizations' Web Sites. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www25.uua.org/uuhs/duub/articles/charlesdickens.html.

"Dickens on Capital Punishment." CHARLES DICKENS - Earthlink.net. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://home.earthlink.net/~bsabatini/Inimitable-Boz/etexts/dickens_on_capital_punishment.html.

"Furies, Greece, Greek mythology." Greece Travel Greek islands History and Mythology. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.in2greece.com/english/historymyth/mythology/names/furies.htm.

"Habeas Corpus Act 1679." Cam Riley :: South Sea Republic. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.southsearepublic.org/article/916/read/habeas_corpus_act_1679.

"History of British judicial hanging." Capital Punishment U. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.capitalpunishmentuk.org/hanging1.html#intro.

"A History of Christianity in England." World History Encyclopedia. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/christian.html.

"The Life and Times of Hercules." Perseus Digital Library. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/Herakles/bio.html.

"Mogul Empire." Encyclopedia.com. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O142-MogulEmpire.html.

"Newgate Prison." University of Michigan. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.umich.edu/~ece/student_projects/bonifield/newgatepic.html.

"Patron saint: Definition from Answers.com." Answers.com. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.answers.com/topic/patron-saint.

"Queen Cleopatra." King Tut Shop. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.kingtutshop.com/freeinfo/cleopatra.htm.

"Saint Clement I (pope) -- Britannica Online Encyclopedia." Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/121001/Saint-Clement-I.

"SparkNotes: Richard III: Key Facts." SparkNotes: Today's Most Popular Study Guides. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/richardiii/facts.html.

Jewish Stereotypes

“...this Jew, who was of a highly excitable temperament, performing a jig of anxiety under a lamp-post, and accompanying himself, in a kind of frenzy, with the words, 'O Jaggerth, Jaggerth, Jaggerth! all otherth ith Cag-Maggerth, give me Jaggerth!'” (Page 182)

In literature and other sources of popular culture of this time period, the Jewish community was often depicted as being homely and uneducated. In theater, for instance, Jews frequently portrayed such characters as villains and poverty stricken individuals. Accompanying this picture of evil and impoverishment was the stereotype of Jews having lisps. This stereotype most likely derives from Jews speaking Hebrew. The Hebrew language consists of many throaty sounds which could very possibly be perceived as a type of lisp. Dickens uses this stereotype in many of his works of fiction. In addition to him using it here, he also created Fagin, the fiend-like character of Jewish descent, from Oliver Twist.

"All About Jewish Theatre - European Jewish Theatre: From 1600 to the 20th Century." All About Jewish Theatre - Main Page. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.jewish-theatre.com/visitor/article_display.aspx?articleID=2632.

Capital Punishment


“...culprits came to be hanged; heightening the interest of that dreadful portal by giving me to understand that “four on 'em” would come out at that door the day after to-morrow at eight in the morning to be killed in a row.” (Page 181)

For hundreds of years, capital punishment was widespread in Great Britain. Before the twentieth century, which was when capital punishment was abolished, the most common form of the death penalty was being hanged. Up until the time period of Great Expectations, Great Britain had experienced a swell in capital offenses resulting with a large number of public executions. Although these executions were grotesque, they attracted large crowds and were considered to be a form of entertainment. Dickens includes this allusion not only because it held cultural importance, but because he was, at the time, an advocate against capital punishment. While he was alive, Dickens documented on multiple occasions that he disliked and took offense to public execution. Shortly following this passage, Pip remarks that this type of death penalty “was horrible, and gave [him] a sickening feeling of London” which reflects Dickens' own beliefs.

"History of British judicial hanging." Capital Punishment U. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.capitalpunishmentuk.org/hanging1.html#intro.

"Dickens on Capital Punishment." CHARLES DICKENS - Earthlink.net. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://home.earthlink.net/~bsabatini/Inimitable-Boz/etexts/dickens_on_capital_punishment.html.

Public Execution. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.executedtoday.com/images/William_Tyndale_execution.jpg.

Newgate Prison


“...Newgate Prison...” (Page 181)

Newgate Prison was a famous jailhouse located in London, England. The prison was built early in the twelfth century and it was used up until the late 19th century. Newgate was notorious for being overcrowded and, consequently, having an unhealthy environment. Although the prison was often unkempt, it was very organized with its documentation of its prisoners and their crimes. According to historians, Newgate Prison has become the most well documented prison of eighteenth century England. Dickens includes this allusion because of its cultural significance. The prison was highly regarded both for its authoritative prestige and its fear inducing qualities. In addition to this, Dickens employs Newgate as a reminder to Pip to behave, especially if he wishes to become a gentleman. By being situated so close to the prison, Pip is impelled to act as civilized as possible so as not to join the corrupted individuals behind bars.

"Newgate Prison." University of Michigan. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.umich.edu/~ece/student_projects/bonifield/newgatepic.html.

Newgate Prison. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.hrionline.ac.uk/obp-wiki/images/e/e4/Newgate_prison_large.jpg.

Habeas Corpus

“Do you know, or do you not know, that the law of England supposes every man to be innocent, until he is proved—proved—to be guilty?” (Page 148)

This passage deliberately describes the legal action of habeas corpus. Habeas corpus is a mandate that requires a prosecuted person to be brought before a judicial court for investigation. In Great Britain, this right has been around for centuries with origins back to the 1300s, but it wasn't until 1679 that the Habeas Corpus Act was passed by Parliament. Dickens mentions habeas corpus in order to give some insight into the character of Jaggers. Although the reader is not completely familiar with this character, he or she soon discovers that Jaggers is in fact a lawyer. As a result, the reader can conclude that Jaggers is a very knowledgeable man and that he holds authority.

"Habeas Corpus Act 1679." Cam Riley :: South Sea Republic. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.southsearepublic.org/article/916/read/habeas_corpus_act_1679.

The Furies


“...pulled her hair down—which were the last stages on her road to frenzy. Being by this time a perfect Fury...” (Page 128)

The Furies are the Greek goddesses of vengeance. The first of the three goddesses is Tisiphone, the avenger of murder; the second is Megaera, the jealous, and the third is Alecto who represents constant anger. The Furies would punish anyone, without mercy, who committed a crime ranging from the small scale of breaking simple rules to the large scale of muder. As punishment, the Furies inflicted their victims with madness. They are often portrayed as hideous creatures with snakes for hair and blood dripping from their eyes. Dickens compares Mrs. Joe to these monstrous beings because of her temper. Following her confrontation with Orlick in the forge, it makes sense that she would be upset and a little unruly. By this point in the story, the reader is familiar with Mrs. Joe being a tyrant and an overall mean individual. Perhaps Dickens makes this reference to the Furies in order to foreshadow Mrs. Joe's eventual “punishment” – in a way, she is later penalized for her past wrongdoings or mistreatment of others.

"Furies, Greece, Greek mythology." Greece Travel Greek islands History and Mythology. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.in2greece.com/english/historymyth/mythology/names/furies.htm.

The Furies. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.lordalford.com/mythology/Greeks/furies.jpg.

The Wandering Jew


“...he would slouch out, like...the Wandering Jew, as if he had no idea where he was going and no intention of ever coming back...” (Page 125)

According to legend, as Jesus made his way to his crucifixion bearing the cross, a cobbler saw him and made such remarks as “crucify him” and “go where thou belongest.” Upon hearing these cruel words, Jesus informed the cobbler that he would roam restlessly over the earth until Judgment Day as punishment. It seems that Dickens describes Orlick as being similar to the Wandering Jew not only because of his poor posture, but also because of his rude behavior and generally unpleasant nature. Orlick can be considered the antagonist of the story because of his odious ways. Due to his uncivil conduct toward Pip, Joe, and Mrs. Joe and, as the reader later learns, his bludgeoning of Mrs. Joe, it can be assumed that he would be eternally punished similarly to how the Wandering Jew was punished.

"CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Literary or Profane Legends." NEW ADVENT: Home. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/09121a.htm#section10.

The Wandering Jew. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/60/Wandering_jew.jpg.

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Change

“I had believed in the best parlour as a most elegant saloon; I had believed in the front door, as a mysterious portal of the Temple of State whose solemn opening was attended with a sacrifice of roast fowls; I had believed in the kitchen as a chaste though not magnificent apartment; I had believed in the forge as the glowing road to manhood and independence. Within a single year all this was changed.” (Page 118)

Multiple times throughout the novel, change arises as an important theme. This passage in particular exhibits a development in Pip's character. Dickens shows that Pip has grown and matured in such a way that he no longer feels comfortable living with the Gargerys nor does he feel fit to work as a blacksmith. Pip mentions that all of his surroundings once offered him peace, but having dealt with these conditions all of his life, he is ready for a change; he is willing to give up this lower-class lifestyle and try something new. This event in the plot provides a turning point in Pip's life. Soon hereafter, Pip decides he wants to learn how to become a gentleman, something that would otherwise be difficult to come by. Fortunately the odds are in his favor and the theme of change arises yet again offering him the opportunity of a lifetime. Dickens uses this theme to show the transition that Pip undergoes both mentally and physically.

Cleopatra


“...much as Cleopatra or any other sovereign lady on the Rampage might exhibit her wealth in a pageant or procession.” (Page 109)

Cleopatra is considered by many to be the most famous Egyptian pharaoh ever to have lived. She reigned from 51 B.C. to 30 B.C. and was the last pharaoh of Egypt. She is reputably known for her alliance with Julius Caesar as well as her relationship with Mark Antony. Dickens alludes to this famous queen in order to develop Mrs. Joe as a character. He characterizes her as thinking very highly of herself, as if she is better than those who surround her, i.e. her husband and brother. This passage just so happens to follow her not being invited to Miss Havisham's home. The haughty attitude she assumes here is most likely related to her hurt feelings. It seems that Dickens purposely depicts Mrs. Joe in this dignified manner so that her dignity can later be destroyed when she is assaulted, similarly to how Cleopatra's reign ended when she committed suicide after Egypt was taken over by the Romans.

"Queen Cleopatra." King Tut Shop. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.kingtutshop.com/freeinfo/cleopatra.htm.

Cleopatra. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.divasthesite.com/images/Cleopatra/Cleopatra_intro.jpg.

Slavery

“...she asked Joe why he hadn't married a Negress Slave at once?” (Page 108)

When Mrs. Joe says “Negress Slave,” she is simply referring to a negro woman. Before the 19th century, Great Britain, as well as countless other nations, enslaved negroes and forced them to do hard labor. However, during the 1800s Great Britain underwent a slight reform and slavery was abolished. In 1807, slave trade was ended, and not very long after, in 1833, Parliament passed a bill to end slavery. This novel presumably takes place during the mid-nineteenth century. As a result, one can assume that the plot occurs near when slavery was outlawed or shortly thereafter. Dickens shows cultural context within this allusion here. Mrs. Joe obviously has it engrained in her mind that it was common for blacks to be exploited as slaves. It is safe to say that there was much racism following this emancipation of blacks, a hint of which can be traced in the statement made by Mrs. Joe.

"BRITISH HISTORY THE STORY of FREEDOM LIBERTY! THE TIMELINE Freedom & justice go hand in hand." Brits at their Best. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.britsattheirbest.com/freedom/f_time_19th_1800_1833.htm.

Saint Clement


“...Old Clem. This was not a very ceremonious way of rendering homage to a patron saint; but I believe Old Clem stood in that relation toward smiths.” (Page 105)

The historical figure referred to here as “Old Clem” is, in actuality, Saint Clement or, as he was otherwise known, Pope Clement I. Clement was pope from 88 to 97 A.D. He is sometimes referred to as the first Apostolic Father of the Church meaning his papacy took place while the Twelve Apostles were still alive. According to several tales, Clement was banished from Rome. Following his ostracism, he was punished for converting a large number of pagans to Christianity by being tied to an anchor and drowned. Because of this, he is recognized as a martyr. Dickens references Clement because he is also known as the patron saint, a saint who is regarded as the advocate in heaven for a place, craft, class, or person, of blacksmithing which ties perfectly in with Joe Gargery's profession. In a sense, Joe can be considered a martyr, though, on a much smaller scale. He makes multiple sacrifices in order to benefit Pip; for instance, he allows Pip to leave his services to learn to become a gentleman - Joe loses his apprentice for Pip's cause. In many ways, Joe can even be considered saint-like because of his genuine character.

"Saint Clement I (pope) -- Britannica Online Encyclopedia." Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/121001/Saint-Clement-I.

"Patron saint: Definition from Answers.com." Answers.com. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.answers.com/topic/patron-saint.

Saint Clement. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://www.orthodoximages.com/images/icons/patrons/dingman/Clement_Ding6x8.jpg.

Time Stood Still

“It was then I began to understand that everything in the room had stopped, like the watch and the clock a long time ago.” (Page 66)

Time plays an important role in this novel, especially since it is biographical of the character Pip. In this part of the novel, Pip recognizes an interesting quirk about Miss Havisham and her manor; all of the clocks within the manor have been set to the same time of twenty minutes to nine and every other object seems to have remained stationary for years. Although this peculiarity provides for some grotesque scenery (for instance, a moldy cake and a thick layer of dust covering everything), it also symbolizes that Havisham's life has been frozen in time. At one point in the story, Miss Havisham even remarks that she knows “nothing about times” showing how greatly she is affected by her lost sense of time. This particular passage is important because it foreshadows the discovery of why Miss Havisham is living in the past (she was abandoned upon her wedding day). Although this information may seem unimportant, Dickens uses it to tie several of the characters together – Compeyson and Magwitch, Magwitch and Pip, Pip and Estella, etc. Miss Havisham's memory of being left at the alter also affects how she views the relationship between Pip and Estella. This is why she feels devastated when she discovers that Estella has chosen someone other than Pip to marry; she pities him similarly to how she pities herself.

The Mogul Empire


“I don't deny that you sister comes the Mo-gul over us...” (Page 54)

In this passage, Joe makes a reference to the Mogul Empire of India. The Mogul Empire covered almost all of India and stretched as far westward and Moscow and Constantinople. This imperial power reigned from 1526 to 1857. The people of the Mogul Empire were essentially persianized Mongols, an ethnic group associated with the Mongol Empire founded by Genghis Khan. Dickens uses this reference to characterize Mrs. Joe as being tyrannical. She is very strict and relentless when it comes discipline in her household much like the Mogul Empire was as it spread and attained power.

"Mogul Empire." Encyclopedia.com. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O142-MogulEmpire.html.

The Mughal Empire. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/willow/history-of-india2.gif.

Catechism - Religion

“...my notions of the theological positions to which my Catechism bound me...” (Page 47)

A catechism is a manual giving the basic principles of Christianity. In the nineteenth century, organized religion was very important; in fact, following a decline, it was during this time period that the Church of England regained its energy. Religion essentially provided structure for British society. Dickens includes religion in many of his stories mostly because of its cultural significance. Dickens, who was baptized under the Church of England but later became a Unitarian, was religious in the sense that he believed in treating others with kindness and generosity. Dickens clearly influences his character, Pip, with a similar belief seeing as how Pip has a genuine soul. Aside from this quote suggesting the slight religious undertone of the novel, it, among several other instances, demonstrates how binding certain issues including religion and work were during this time period.

"Catechism - definition of catechism by the Free Online Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia." Dictionary, Encyclopedia and Thesaurus - The Free Dictionary. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/catechism.

"A History of Christianity in England." World History Encyclopedia. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/christian.html.

"Charles Dickens." UUA Server for Other Organizations' Web Sites. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www25.uua.org/uuhs/duub/articles/charlesdickens.html.

Mr. Wopsle



“Mr. Wopsle said grace with theatrical declamation—as it now appears to me, something like a religious cross of the Ghost in Hamlet with Richard III...” (Page 27)

Charles Dickens makes this reference primarily to show that Mr. Wopsle is a particularly histrionic character. This quote alludes to the famous Shakespearean tragedies, Hamlet and Richard III. In Hamlet, the late king of Denmark returns from the grave to haunt his son and confide in him the secret of his untimely death. Richard III entails the rise to power and short reign of the English king of the same name. Both characters are depicted as being stately, due to their royalty, and both have their share of dramatic monologues. Like them, Mr. Wopsle thinks very highly of himself. Dickens chooses these characters to compare Wopsle to because they contradict each other. Wopsle is weighed alongside a live and dead king to show that he is at a middle ground; his character and abilities are lacking depth and haven't come to their full potential. Dickens also points out that Mr. Wopsle is a "religious" cross between the two most likely because of his involvement in the church; he is the local church clerk. Not only does this quote give a description of Mr. Wopsle, but it also foreshadows his later career transition into becoming an actor and his mediocre portrayal of Hamlet later in the story.

"SparkNotes: Richard III: Key Facts." SparkNotes: Today's Most Popular Study Guides. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/richardiii/facts.html.

King Hamlet's Ghost. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/38/John_Gilbert_-_Hamlet_in_the_Presence_of_His_Father%27s_Ghost.JPG.

King Richard III. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/61/3761-004-1DC88B8B.jpg.

The Crusades

“...secretly crossed his two fingers...like monumental Crusaders as to their legs.” (Page 23)

The Crusades were a series of religious expeditions undertaken by those who vowed to spread and restore Christianity in the Holy Land. This campaign took place over the course of two hundred years between 1095 and 1291. Much like the Crusaders, Joe and Pip essentially vow to protect one another while living under the tyrannical rule of Mrs. Joe Gargery. The Crusaders were known for their covert schemes of infiltrating cultures with Christianity. Likewise, Joe and Pip must remain secretive in order to avoid Mrs. Joe's wrath. Dickens characterizes the two as modern-day Crusaders with this scheme of crossing their fingers to signify Mrs. Joe's “cross temper.” It is said that, when a Crusader died, they were buried with their legs crossed to signify their servitude.

"CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Crusades." NEW ADVENT: Home. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04543c.htm.

Hercules




“...a sort of Hercules in strength, and also in weakness.” (Page 7)

Hercules is considered by many to be the most famous of Greek heroes. According to myth, Hercules was born to the Greek god, Zeus, and a mortal woman. When Zeus' wife, Hera, discovered Hercules, she did all she could to do away with him. However, she was unsuccessful with killing the infant and thus vowed to make the remainder of his life miserable. Despite this, Hercules became incredibly strong and overcame many of the hurtles thrown at him. Dickens describes Joe as having Hercules-like characteristics because Joe is a brute of a man having worked most of his life in the forge. Although Hercules is known for his strength, several of the challenges he faced in life exposed his weaknesses including his desire to die due to the excruciating pain he received after being poisoned. Dickens does not attribute Joe with this type of weakness, but instead characterizes him as being sensitive, especially with personal affairs such as when his wife is seriously injured and when Pip leaves his apprenticeship.

"The Life and Times of Hercules." Perseus Digital Library. Web. 02 Jan. 2010. http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/Herakles/bio.html.

Hercules. Digital image. Web. 03 Jan. 2010. http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/06/115106-004-52333086.jpg.