Research Writing Reminders
Your mantra: Writing research papers can be fun. Research is fun. Writing is fun. (Say it 3 times and it will be true!)
In text citations
Use author’s last name and page number (Jones 2).
Use the TITLE of the WORK if there is no author. This does not mean the article’s title, but the title of the book, website, etc. (Shakespeare’s Characters 88).
For a website where page numbers are not marked use only the author or the title of the website when no author is given.
Little things
When using a large quote, take out parts that are not relevant to your writing. These deleted parts have an ellipses. Ex: “…above all….be true.”
A very large quote should be blocked. This is MORE than 4 lines TYPED. When blocking indent twice, do not use quotation marks and put the period inside the citation. Most professors/teachers will see these warily. If you have block quoted, be certain that you are going above and beyond paper requirements in terms of length.
How much to cite?
In a research paper, every time you have utilized a source, you should cite it. This is always the case with direct quotes, but also applies when paraphrasing into your own words.
Cite directly after a quotation. If an entire paragraph comes from one source and is not directly quoted, you can cite at the end of a paragraph.
Citing….
Do not put two citations back to back. EX: (Jones 33) (Smith 111). Work it out so that the information is divided into two or more sentences so that it can be cited correctly.
With research, most paragraphs will have at least one citation.
Paraphrase into your own words when possible. Less than 1/8 of the entire length of the assignment should be direct quotes. Again, cite ANY information that was not your own originally, even if in your own words.
Works Cited
Sources are listed alphabetically.
Sources use reverse or “hanging” indentations.
Center the words “Works Cited.”
All sources on this page MUST be cited in the paper.
Any sources consulted but not cited must go on a separate page that is titled “Works Consulted.”
Format
Cover page: title, your name, date, class/professor’s name. If a professor prefers, the information can be put on page one at the top right. (I do not.)
Put last name and page in top right. Include a running title header in the top left. Set as HEADERS that are NOT in the text of the essay itself.
Avoid: cliché’, personal pronouns, ending with prepositions, using the word SO, etc.
Don’t forget to….
Use variety in word choice and sentence styles.
Use transitions not only at the beginning of a paragraph, but in the middle of a paragraph or as a sentence that leads into the next paragraph.
Use a topic sentence in each body paragraph.
Go beyond the five paragraph format.
What’s really important?
Organization: Connect ideas. Chunks of ideas don’t work unless there is a connection between them.
Introductions should be interesting.
Conclusions should be brief, used to briefly summarize, give a solution of sorts, and should not list the points like a grocery list. No grocery lists in the introduction either.
Read your paper. Leave time in between to go back and look at it later. Have someone else read it, too.
Finally…
While it is incredibly easy to find papers on the web, it is that easy for your professors/teachers to find them, too. There are, literally, hundreds of websites for teachers that will run an essay through a plagiarism detector. Even Google will locate phrases that have appeared elsewhere. It isn’t worth it. You will get a zero and possibly fail amongst other punishments.Universities are free to expel you and to not give a tuition refund.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Macbeth notes for Honors English 4
Remember that you cannot have a printed copy of notes in your notebook for the end of the grading period notes test.
Macbeth
Published around 1603 as a way for Shakespeare to win favor with King James; James supposedly was a descendant of Banquo and was interested in witchcraft.
Takes place in Scotland around the year 1100. Most of the characters are real in history, but are portrayed differently in the play.
MACBETH: ACT 1
THE 3 WITCHES FORSEE THE FUTURE. FROM THE BEGINNING, THEY ARE MALICIOUS.
THE TRAITORS ON THE BATTLEFIELD WILL BE EXECUTED; MACBETH WILL BE GIVEN THE TITLE THANE OF CAWDOR BECAUSE OF HIS BRAVERY DURING BATTLE.
THE BLOODY CAPTAIN BROUGHT ALL OF THE NEWS.
Shakespeare’s Macbeth
The Witches
MACBETH ACT 1
MACBETH AND BANQUO DISCOVER THE WITCHES ON THE HEATH. HE IS REFERRED TO AS THANE OF GLAMIS, WHICH HE IS. HE IS THEN REFERRED TO AS THANE OF CAWDOR AND KING, WHICH HE IS NOT…YET.
BANQUO IS GIVEN 3 PARADOXICAL STATEMENTS: 1. LESSER THAN MACBETH, BUT GREATER 2. HAPPIER, BUT NOT SO HAPPY 3. NOT A KING, BUT WILL HAVE KINGS
MACBETH ACT 1
LADY MACBETH GETS THE NEWS FROM MACBETH IN A LETTER. SHE ASKS TO BE “MADE INSENSITIVE” TO WHAT SHE IS ABOUT TO DO; HER PLAN: SHE WILL DRUG GUARDS. MACBETH WILL USE GUARDS’ DAGGERS TO KILL DUNCAN. BLOOD ON GUARDS WILL MAKE THEM SEEM GUILTY.
MC. FEARS HIS WIFE’S PLOT B/C HE IS THE KING’S SUBJECT.
MC.’S FATAL FLAW WILL BE HIS LUST FOR POWER.
LIT ELEMENTS: A)THE PLAY IS WRITTEN IN BLANK VERSE (UNRHYMED IAMBIC PENTAMETER).B) A PARADOX IS A CONTRADICTION.
MACBETH:ACT 2
MC THINKS HE SEES A DAGGER; HE FEELS GUILT ALREADY, BUT DECIDES TO KILL DUNCAN ANYWAY.
MC HAS KILLED DUNCAN,BUT LADY MC TELLS HIM TO QUIT DWELLING ON IT; SHE’S THE ONE WHO REPLACES THE DAGGERS.
THE PORTER CALLS UPON THE DEVIL & IS UNAWARE OF THE CRIME(DRAMATIC IRONY). PORTER TAKES A LONG TIME TO ANSWER MACDUFF’S KNOCK; MACDUFF THINKS HE’S SLEEPING.
MACBETH: ACT 2 CONT.
MALCOLM &DONALBAIN FLEE FOR FEAR OF THEIR OWN LIVES AND BECAUSE SOME THINK THEY HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH DUNCAN’S DEATH.
BANQUO MEETS W/ NOBLES TO DISCUSS THE MURDER.
OMENS ARE USED THROUGHOUT: SCREAMING, WILD HORSES; EARTHQUAKE; LENNOX IS FEARFUL BECAUSE OF THESE.
MCB. IS UNABLE TO PRAY/SAY AMEN; CAN’T SLEEP
`Banquo says he has had dreams; he fears there may be some truth.
MACBETH HAS GONE TO SCONE. HE WILL BE CROWNED KING THERE.
MACDUFF WILL RETURN HOME TO FIFE.
DUNCAN’S BODY WILL BE BURIED AT COLMEKILL, AN ISLAND WHERE ALL SCOTTISH KINGS ARE BURIED.
MACBETH ACT 3
BANQUO FEELS HOPEFUL THAT HIS SONS WILL BE KING.
MCB. discusses ‘BARREN SCEPTER’, WHICH IS AN OMEN THAT HE WON’T HAVE HEIRS TO THE THRONE.
MCB. TELLS 2 HIRED MURDERERS TO KEEP QUIET B/C HIS &BANQUO’S FRIENDS WOULD BE UPSET.
FLEANCE HAS ESCAPED; MCB.NERVOUS.
ACT 3 CONT.
MCB. TALKS TO BANQUO’S GHOST.
LENNOX IS NOW SARCASTIC & ALL NOBLES ARE SUSPICIOUS OF ALL EVENTS REGARDING MCB.
MCB KNOWS HE’S IN TROUBLE.
LIT ELE: SIMILE, METAPHOR, ETC IN THIS SECTION…
MACBETH ACT 4
HECATE MAKES MCB. OVERCONFIDENT AS SHE DECIDES TO GET INVOLVED WITH MAC’S RUIN.
WITCHES TELL MCB. TO CALL UPON THE APPARITIONS, BUT DON’T ASK TOO MUCH.
MCB. IS TOLD “NO ONE BORN OF WOMAN “ WILL HURT HIM. HE DECIDES TO KILL MACDUFF ANYWAY.
LADY MACDUFF DOESN’T LISTEN TO THE MESSENGER. HE WARNS HER TO FLEE AND SHE DOESN’T. IDENTITY IS UNKNOWN…
ACT 4 (CONT.)
MALCOLM PRETENDS HE IS TOO EVIL TO BECOME KING SO THAT HE CAN GET MACDUFF’S LOYALTY.MALCOLM AND MACDUFF VOW TO OVERTHROW MACBETH.
ROSS JOINS MALCOLM AND MACDUFF TO SAY THAT HE’S SORRY, BUT HE BRINGS BAD NEWS.
WHEN MACDUFF HEARS ABOUT HIS FAMILY’S FATE, MALCOLM TELLS HIM TO GET ANGRY AND DO SOMETHING.
ACT 4: C HARACTER INFO.
THERE ARE MESSENGERS AS FOLLOWS:
CROWNED CHILD: “Macbeth will not be vanquished until Birnam Wood marches to Dunsinane.”
BLOODY CHILD: “No man born of a woman will harm Macbeth.”
ACT 4 CHARACTERS (CONT.)
BANQUO’S GHOST:”The 8 ghostly kings are Banquo’s offspring.”
ARMED HEAD: “Beware of Macduff”
ROSS: “Macbeth has killed Macduff’s family”
ACT 5
THE GENTLEWOMAN REFUSES TO REPEAT LADY MACBETH’S SLEEP-TALK TO THE DOCTOR BECAUSE THERE ISN’T A WITNESS TO CONFIRM IT.SHE IS AFRAID THAT SHE’LL GET IN TROUBLE IF SOMEONE THINKS SHE LIES.
THE “DAMNED SPOT” THAT LADY MACBETH REFERS TO IS DUNCAN’S BLOODSTAIN.
MACBETH TRIES TO REASSURE HIMSELF THAT MALCOLM AND MACDUFF ARE NOT A THREAT TO HIM B/C THEY ARE BOTH BORN OF WOMEN.
ACT 5 (CONT.)
MACBETH’S REACTION WHEN LADY MACBETH DIES IS THAT LIFE IS REALLY JUST A PATH TO DEATH.
MACDUFF DECLARES THAT HE MUST KILL MACBETH B/C HE MUST AVENGE THE MURDERS.
ACT 5 (CONT.)
MACBETH REALIZES THE WITCHES DECEIVED HIM WITH THEIR MESSAGES.
MALCOLM IS ACKNOWLEDGED AS KING.
IMAGES OF DAGGERS, WOODS, AND CHILDREN ARE USED THROUGHOUT THE PLAY AS SYMBOLS AND OMENS OF EVIL AND SINISTER HAPPENINGS.
CHARACTERS, ACT 5
CHARACTERS’ REVELATION:
SEYTON: REVEALS THAT LADY MACBETH IS DEAD.
LADY MACBETH: REVEALS MURDERS OF LADY MACDUFF AND DUNCAN (in her sleep)
THE MESSENGER: REVEALS THAT BIRNAM WOOD IS APPROACHING THE CASTLE ( INVADERS)
CHARACTER REVELATIONS
MALCOLM:REVEALS THAT HIS SUPPORTERS WILL BE MADE EARLS (ROYAL TITLE)
PLAY IS WRITTEN IN BLANK VERSE, WHICH MAKES THE SPEAKERS SOUND MORE NATURAL IN TERMS OF THE RHYTHM OF THEIR SPEECH.
Lit Terms to know for the test:
Catalyst
Imagery
Tragic hero
Tragic flaw
Tragedy, comedy, history
Metaphor, simile, personification
Macbeth
Published around 1603 as a way for Shakespeare to win favor with King James; James supposedly was a descendant of Banquo and was interested in witchcraft.
Takes place in Scotland around the year 1100. Most of the characters are real in history, but are portrayed differently in the play.
MACBETH: ACT 1
THE 3 WITCHES FORSEE THE FUTURE. FROM THE BEGINNING, THEY ARE MALICIOUS.
THE TRAITORS ON THE BATTLEFIELD WILL BE EXECUTED; MACBETH WILL BE GIVEN THE TITLE THANE OF CAWDOR BECAUSE OF HIS BRAVERY DURING BATTLE.
THE BLOODY CAPTAIN BROUGHT ALL OF THE NEWS.
Shakespeare’s Macbeth
The Witches
MACBETH ACT 1
MACBETH AND BANQUO DISCOVER THE WITCHES ON THE HEATH. HE IS REFERRED TO AS THANE OF GLAMIS, WHICH HE IS. HE IS THEN REFERRED TO AS THANE OF CAWDOR AND KING, WHICH HE IS NOT…YET.
BANQUO IS GIVEN 3 PARADOXICAL STATEMENTS: 1. LESSER THAN MACBETH, BUT GREATER 2. HAPPIER, BUT NOT SO HAPPY 3. NOT A KING, BUT WILL HAVE KINGS
MACBETH ACT 1
LADY MACBETH GETS THE NEWS FROM MACBETH IN A LETTER. SHE ASKS TO BE “MADE INSENSITIVE” TO WHAT SHE IS ABOUT TO DO; HER PLAN: SHE WILL DRUG GUARDS. MACBETH WILL USE GUARDS’ DAGGERS TO KILL DUNCAN. BLOOD ON GUARDS WILL MAKE THEM SEEM GUILTY.
MC. FEARS HIS WIFE’S PLOT B/C HE IS THE KING’S SUBJECT.
MC.’S FATAL FLAW WILL BE HIS LUST FOR POWER.
LIT ELEMENTS: A)THE PLAY IS WRITTEN IN BLANK VERSE (UNRHYMED IAMBIC PENTAMETER).B) A PARADOX IS A CONTRADICTION.
MACBETH:ACT 2
MC THINKS HE SEES A DAGGER; HE FEELS GUILT ALREADY, BUT DECIDES TO KILL DUNCAN ANYWAY.
MC HAS KILLED DUNCAN,BUT LADY MC TELLS HIM TO QUIT DWELLING ON IT; SHE’S THE ONE WHO REPLACES THE DAGGERS.
THE PORTER CALLS UPON THE DEVIL & IS UNAWARE OF THE CRIME(DRAMATIC IRONY). PORTER TAKES A LONG TIME TO ANSWER MACDUFF’S KNOCK; MACDUFF THINKS HE’S SLEEPING.
MACBETH: ACT 2 CONT.
MALCOLM &DONALBAIN FLEE FOR FEAR OF THEIR OWN LIVES AND BECAUSE SOME THINK THEY HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH DUNCAN’S DEATH.
BANQUO MEETS W/ NOBLES TO DISCUSS THE MURDER.
OMENS ARE USED THROUGHOUT: SCREAMING, WILD HORSES; EARTHQUAKE; LENNOX IS FEARFUL BECAUSE OF THESE.
MCB. IS UNABLE TO PRAY/SAY AMEN; CAN’T SLEEP
`Banquo says he has had dreams; he fears there may be some truth.
MACBETH HAS GONE TO SCONE. HE WILL BE CROWNED KING THERE.
MACDUFF WILL RETURN HOME TO FIFE.
DUNCAN’S BODY WILL BE BURIED AT COLMEKILL, AN ISLAND WHERE ALL SCOTTISH KINGS ARE BURIED.
MACBETH ACT 3
BANQUO FEELS HOPEFUL THAT HIS SONS WILL BE KING.
MCB. discusses ‘BARREN SCEPTER’, WHICH IS AN OMEN THAT HE WON’T HAVE HEIRS TO THE THRONE.
MCB. TELLS 2 HIRED MURDERERS TO KEEP QUIET B/C HIS &BANQUO’S FRIENDS WOULD BE UPSET.
FLEANCE HAS ESCAPED; MCB.NERVOUS.
ACT 3 CONT.
MCB. TALKS TO BANQUO’S GHOST.
LENNOX IS NOW SARCASTIC & ALL NOBLES ARE SUSPICIOUS OF ALL EVENTS REGARDING MCB.
MCB KNOWS HE’S IN TROUBLE.
LIT ELE: SIMILE, METAPHOR, ETC IN THIS SECTION…
MACBETH ACT 4
HECATE MAKES MCB. OVERCONFIDENT AS SHE DECIDES TO GET INVOLVED WITH MAC’S RUIN.
WITCHES TELL MCB. TO CALL UPON THE APPARITIONS, BUT DON’T ASK TOO MUCH.
MCB. IS TOLD “NO ONE BORN OF WOMAN “ WILL HURT HIM. HE DECIDES TO KILL MACDUFF ANYWAY.
LADY MACDUFF DOESN’T LISTEN TO THE MESSENGER. HE WARNS HER TO FLEE AND SHE DOESN’T. IDENTITY IS UNKNOWN…
ACT 4 (CONT.)
MALCOLM PRETENDS HE IS TOO EVIL TO BECOME KING SO THAT HE CAN GET MACDUFF’S LOYALTY.MALCOLM AND MACDUFF VOW TO OVERTHROW MACBETH.
ROSS JOINS MALCOLM AND MACDUFF TO SAY THAT HE’S SORRY, BUT HE BRINGS BAD NEWS.
WHEN MACDUFF HEARS ABOUT HIS FAMILY’S FATE, MALCOLM TELLS HIM TO GET ANGRY AND DO SOMETHING.
ACT 4: C HARACTER INFO.
THERE ARE MESSENGERS AS FOLLOWS:
CROWNED CHILD: “Macbeth will not be vanquished until Birnam Wood marches to Dunsinane.”
BLOODY CHILD: “No man born of a woman will harm Macbeth.”
ACT 4 CHARACTERS (CONT.)
BANQUO’S GHOST:”The 8 ghostly kings are Banquo’s offspring.”
ARMED HEAD: “Beware of Macduff”
ROSS: “Macbeth has killed Macduff’s family”
ACT 5
THE GENTLEWOMAN REFUSES TO REPEAT LADY MACBETH’S SLEEP-TALK TO THE DOCTOR BECAUSE THERE ISN’T A WITNESS TO CONFIRM IT.SHE IS AFRAID THAT SHE’LL GET IN TROUBLE IF SOMEONE THINKS SHE LIES.
THE “DAMNED SPOT” THAT LADY MACBETH REFERS TO IS DUNCAN’S BLOODSTAIN.
MACBETH TRIES TO REASSURE HIMSELF THAT MALCOLM AND MACDUFF ARE NOT A THREAT TO HIM B/C THEY ARE BOTH BORN OF WOMEN.
ACT 5 (CONT.)
MACBETH’S REACTION WHEN LADY MACBETH DIES IS THAT LIFE IS REALLY JUST A PATH TO DEATH.
MACDUFF DECLARES THAT HE MUST KILL MACBETH B/C HE MUST AVENGE THE MURDERS.
ACT 5 (CONT.)
MACBETH REALIZES THE WITCHES DECEIVED HIM WITH THEIR MESSAGES.
MALCOLM IS ACKNOWLEDGED AS KING.
IMAGES OF DAGGERS, WOODS, AND CHILDREN ARE USED THROUGHOUT THE PLAY AS SYMBOLS AND OMENS OF EVIL AND SINISTER HAPPENINGS.
CHARACTERS, ACT 5
CHARACTERS’ REVELATION:
SEYTON: REVEALS THAT LADY MACBETH IS DEAD.
LADY MACBETH: REVEALS MURDERS OF LADY MACDUFF AND DUNCAN (in her sleep)
THE MESSENGER: REVEALS THAT BIRNAM WOOD IS APPROACHING THE CASTLE ( INVADERS)
CHARACTER REVELATIONS
MALCOLM:REVEALS THAT HIS SUPPORTERS WILL BE MADE EARLS (ROYAL TITLE)
PLAY IS WRITTEN IN BLANK VERSE, WHICH MAKES THE SPEAKERS SOUND MORE NATURAL IN TERMS OF THE RHYTHM OF THEIR SPEECH.
Lit Terms to know for the test:
Catalyst
Imagery
Tragic hero
Tragic flaw
Tragedy, comedy, history
Metaphor, simile, personification
RGAD notes for AP lit
RGAD: Intro.
Existentialism: the individual as unique and alone in an indifferent, often hostile, environment; sense of meaningless; man’s inequality
Mood: tense; sense of foreboding
Characters: Rosencrantz; Guildenstern; players; Alfred; and various Hamlet characters
Allusion: to Hamlet
RGAD: Themes
Existential void: man can ask questions, but receives no answers; man is confused by several realms of reality
People lose their identity as they get caught up in life. Free will isn’t really free because we are moved by forces we don’t understand.
Man accepts. He is heroic because he submits to the forces he cannot understand.
RGAD: Themes
The protagonists (R & G) are puppets or absurd clowns. They are the heroes.
Death is just another realm; man dissolves into this darkness and disappears. Death is just the absence of being present.
Stoppard questions the presence of God or some power. No one can be sure…
RGAD: other important info.
Author: Tom Stoppard
Date: 1967
Play: tragi-comedy (both tragic and comical)
Play: a farce; theater of the absurd in terms of actions, plot, etc.
Setting: 12th c. Denmark; Elsinore
Devices: witty language; unknown focus; dialogue as repartee; word games
RGAD: act 1
RG seem confused as to their own identities. Why?
How do RG seem caught up in what they cannot control?
How does G. describe truth? (p. 39)
What do they think of Hamlet? Is it same or different from the orig. play?
RGAD: act 2
Who seems to be in control?
How do you know that RG are aware that they have no control? ( see p. 60)
What bothers the players? ( see p. 63)
What comments do RG make regarding the pornographic elements of the play? (see p. 65; 80)
How do they feel about life? (see p. 71)
What do RG want to know?
RGAD: act 2
What do RG realize on p. 79?
How do RG actually look at their own death at the end of the mime?
What feelings do RG have at the end of act 2? See p. 94…
RGAD: act 3
How do RG feel at the beginning of the act?
Are RG free of Hamlet and the other characters? How do you know?
Do they discover the letter? What happens?
Who else is on the boat? Why?
What do RG feel about their mission even after realizing the truth?
Review Ques.
Could RG have changed the outcome of their lives?
What generalizations can be made about the characters of RG?
How do you know RG are dead?
In what way is the play existential?
What comments are made about truth throughout the play?
Act 1
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are standing near Elsinore. They have been flipping a coin that continues to land exactly the same way for over 90 times eventually.
They discuss the fact that they have been “sent for” with no perception as to why.
They spend much of their down time in discussions regarding life, death, human nature, truth, etc. (existential ideas)
Act 1
Polonius, Gertrude, Claudius appear and suggest to R and G that they should determine the cause of Hamlet’s madness.
Uncertain of what to do, they practice together what they will say to Hamlet, play at “questions” game, etc.
When they meet Hamlet, he has the upper hand and they are disappointed with themselves.
Act 2
Hamlet and R & G have a conversation. They discuss the fact that they truly got little information from Hamlet.
They seem confused as to where they are or why they are there. This can be connected to the existentialist ideology.
They realize that they have little control over what is happening. “Wheels have been set in motion.”
Act 2
They hear Hamlet ask the players to perform the play.
The player also gives an philosophical statement with, “You don’t know the humiliation of it…to be tricked out of the single assumption which makes our existence viable---that somebody is watching.”
Death as a topic is discsussed, with Rosencrantz suggesting that death is really life, but in a box.
Act 2
Claudius and Gertrude question R & G. They try again to speak with Hamlet, but gain nothing.
The play is performed and the players explain what is happening in the dumb show that begins the play within the play.
R & G are sent to find the location of Polonius’s body. They seem confused again as to which way to go (again, existentialism). They see Hamlet dragging the body, but do nothing.
Finish off with, “I like to know where I am. Even if I don’t know where I am, I like to know that.”
Act 3
R & G wake up to sounds of the sea and darkness.
They seem nervous but also joyous at the freedom. “ Free to move, speak, extemporise, and yet. We have not been cut loose.”
They see Hamlet and know that they are holding a letter.
They seem to know that they are taking Hamlet to England, but have no idea of the consequences.
Act 3
They seem to have the notion that death is there, and that they should fear it. However, G. says that they should not give up. He suggests that death is “not being” and that it isn’t possible because they are on a boat. (He’s rationalizing that which cannot be rationalized.)
They hear music and realize that they players are on board, too. They say that they are in trouble for offending the king.
Act 3
They realize that Hamlet is gone. This brings up the additional realization that they are in big trouble. G says “death is not anything.” R says, “so that’s it, then, is it?”
They end with, “There must have been a moment, at the beginning, where we could have said---no. But somehow we missed it.”
R and G simply disappear. Last scene shows all of the dead bodies from the duel scene in Hamlet.
Existentialism: the individual as unique and alone in an indifferent, often hostile, environment; sense of meaningless; man’s inequality
Mood: tense; sense of foreboding
Characters: Rosencrantz; Guildenstern; players; Alfred; and various Hamlet characters
Allusion: to Hamlet
RGAD: Themes
Existential void: man can ask questions, but receives no answers; man is confused by several realms of reality
People lose their identity as they get caught up in life. Free will isn’t really free because we are moved by forces we don’t understand.
Man accepts. He is heroic because he submits to the forces he cannot understand.
RGAD: Themes
The protagonists (R & G) are puppets or absurd clowns. They are the heroes.
Death is just another realm; man dissolves into this darkness and disappears. Death is just the absence of being present.
Stoppard questions the presence of God or some power. No one can be sure…
RGAD: other important info.
Author: Tom Stoppard
Date: 1967
Play: tragi-comedy (both tragic and comical)
Play: a farce; theater of the absurd in terms of actions, plot, etc.
Setting: 12th c. Denmark; Elsinore
Devices: witty language; unknown focus; dialogue as repartee; word games
RGAD: act 1
RG seem confused as to their own identities. Why?
How do RG seem caught up in what they cannot control?
How does G. describe truth? (p. 39)
What do they think of Hamlet? Is it same or different from the orig. play?
RGAD: act 2
Who seems to be in control?
How do you know that RG are aware that they have no control? ( see p. 60)
What bothers the players? ( see p. 63)
What comments do RG make regarding the pornographic elements of the play? (see p. 65; 80)
How do they feel about life? (see p. 71)
What do RG want to know?
RGAD: act 2
What do RG realize on p. 79?
How do RG actually look at their own death at the end of the mime?
What feelings do RG have at the end of act 2? See p. 94…
RGAD: act 3
How do RG feel at the beginning of the act?
Are RG free of Hamlet and the other characters? How do you know?
Do they discover the letter? What happens?
Who else is on the boat? Why?
What do RG feel about their mission even after realizing the truth?
Review Ques.
Could RG have changed the outcome of their lives?
What generalizations can be made about the characters of RG?
How do you know RG are dead?
In what way is the play existential?
What comments are made about truth throughout the play?
Act 1
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are standing near Elsinore. They have been flipping a coin that continues to land exactly the same way for over 90 times eventually.
They discuss the fact that they have been “sent for” with no perception as to why.
They spend much of their down time in discussions regarding life, death, human nature, truth, etc. (existential ideas)
Act 1
Polonius, Gertrude, Claudius appear and suggest to R and G that they should determine the cause of Hamlet’s madness.
Uncertain of what to do, they practice together what they will say to Hamlet, play at “questions” game, etc.
When they meet Hamlet, he has the upper hand and they are disappointed with themselves.
Act 2
Hamlet and R & G have a conversation. They discuss the fact that they truly got little information from Hamlet.
They seem confused as to where they are or why they are there. This can be connected to the existentialist ideology.
They realize that they have little control over what is happening. “Wheels have been set in motion.”
Act 2
They hear Hamlet ask the players to perform the play.
The player also gives an philosophical statement with, “You don’t know the humiliation of it…to be tricked out of the single assumption which makes our existence viable---that somebody is watching.”
Death as a topic is discsussed, with Rosencrantz suggesting that death is really life, but in a box.
Act 2
Claudius and Gertrude question R & G. They try again to speak with Hamlet, but gain nothing.
The play is performed and the players explain what is happening in the dumb show that begins the play within the play.
R & G are sent to find the location of Polonius’s body. They seem confused again as to which way to go (again, existentialism). They see Hamlet dragging the body, but do nothing.
Finish off with, “I like to know where I am. Even if I don’t know where I am, I like to know that.”
Act 3
R & G wake up to sounds of the sea and darkness.
They seem nervous but also joyous at the freedom. “ Free to move, speak, extemporise, and yet. We have not been cut loose.”
They see Hamlet and know that they are holding a letter.
They seem to know that they are taking Hamlet to England, but have no idea of the consequences.
Act 3
They seem to have the notion that death is there, and that they should fear it. However, G. says that they should not give up. He suggests that death is “not being” and that it isn’t possible because they are on a boat. (He’s rationalizing that which cannot be rationalized.)
They hear music and realize that they players are on board, too. They say that they are in trouble for offending the king.
Act 3
They realize that Hamlet is gone. This brings up the additional realization that they are in big trouble. G says “death is not anything.” R says, “so that’s it, then, is it?”
They end with, “There must have been a moment, at the beginning, where we could have said---no. But somehow we missed it.”
R and G simply disappear. Last scene shows all of the dead bodies from the duel scene in Hamlet.
comparison contrast essay rubric
Dimension 1:
Grammar and mechanics There are no more than 2 total errors and none of them are fragments or run on sentences There are 2-4 errors and none are fragments or run on sentences There are 5-8 errors in total. There are more than 8 total errors.
Dimension 2:
Focus; thesis;
organization Thesis is clear and concise; transitions are used; clear focus throughout Some focus issues that are not too distracting; fuzzy thesis; still organized Organization issues including paragraphing; thesis unclear; transitions are elementary Major errors in organization; thesis is not there or vague; no use of transitions
Dimension 3:
Support; examples; discussion There are multiple examples of support There may be just one example per paragraph. There are some examples of support, but not in all paragraphs. There is very little support, detail or example.
Dimension 4:
Introduction; conclusion The intro. Is catchy; contains thesis; matches the conclusion; sophisticated Intro and conclusion do their job Intro and conclusion are present but inadequate for paper’s style Either or both are absent or unrecognizable in purpose
Dimension 5:
Content; ideas Full discussion of ideas; clarity; sophisticated style Slightly less sophisticated than a “4” score Paper is adequate in content without going above and beyond; style issues Paper has major issues in content, areas left out, incomplete thoughts, etc.
“Comparison/Contrast Essay”
Dimension 6: Word Sophisticated words;
Choice/Sent. Style much variety in style Some variety in vocab
And sent. Style Basic sent. Style not at level
Automatic Deductions:
Incorrect use of font; typestyle; margins; cover page; spacing_DEDUCT UP TO 15_______________
Incorrect length of essay (less than 2 full pages)DEDUCT_UP to 50____________
Essays of 2 full pages will receive a maximum “B” grade; 3 full pages or more can/MAY receive an “A” grade
Total Score___________/150
Grammar and mechanics There are no more than 2 total errors and none of them are fragments or run on sentences There are 2-4 errors and none are fragments or run on sentences There are 5-8 errors in total. There are more than 8 total errors.
Dimension 2:
Focus; thesis;
organization Thesis is clear and concise; transitions are used; clear focus throughout Some focus issues that are not too distracting; fuzzy thesis; still organized Organization issues including paragraphing; thesis unclear; transitions are elementary Major errors in organization; thesis is not there or vague; no use of transitions
Dimension 3:
Support; examples; discussion There are multiple examples of support There may be just one example per paragraph. There are some examples of support, but not in all paragraphs. There is very little support, detail or example.
Dimension 4:
Introduction; conclusion The intro. Is catchy; contains thesis; matches the conclusion; sophisticated Intro and conclusion do their job Intro and conclusion are present but inadequate for paper’s style Either or both are absent or unrecognizable in purpose
Dimension 5:
Content; ideas Full discussion of ideas; clarity; sophisticated style Slightly less sophisticated than a “4” score Paper is adequate in content without going above and beyond; style issues Paper has major issues in content, areas left out, incomplete thoughts, etc.
“Comparison/Contrast Essay”
Dimension 6: Word Sophisticated words;
Choice/Sent. Style much variety in style Some variety in vocab
And sent. Style Basic sent. Style not at level
Automatic Deductions:
Incorrect use of font; typestyle; margins; cover page; spacing_DEDUCT UP TO 15_______________
Incorrect length of essay (less than 2 full pages)DEDUCT_UP to 50____________
Essays of 2 full pages will receive a maximum “B” grade; 3 full pages or more can/MAY receive an “A” grade
Total Score___________/150
Monday, October 25, 2010
Hamlet notes and information
Hamlet Background
Written between 1599-1601.
The historical background dates to the 12th century.
A tragedy with Hamlet as the tragic hero, with revenge as the tragic flaw.
Setting: Denmark; 12th century; Royal castle called Elsinore
Hamlet Characters (cont. on slide 4)
Hamlet: prince of Denmark
Claudius: King of Denmark; uncle to Prince Hamlet
Gertrude: queen; Prince’s mother
Polonius: govt; official to Claudius
Horatio: Prince’s friend
Laertes: son to Polonius
Ophelia: former love to Prince H; daughter to Polonius
Young Fortinbras: Prince of Norway
Genre Information
Genre: tragedy
Characteristics:1. a tragic hero who is genuinely a good person but who has a flaw that sets into motion the action of the play.
Use of soliloquy and asides to pass on necessary information (I.e. Hamlet’s “to be or not to be…”)
Hamlet Characters
Rosencrantz & Guildenstern: schoolmates of Prince
Osric: messenger
Voltimand and Cornelius: ambassadors from Norway
Marcellus, Bernardo and Francisco: castle guards
Reynaldo: servant to Polonius; sent to spy on Laertes
Grave diggers: comic relief in the play
Ghost: King Hamlet; father to Prince H.
Symbols and Themes (to be completed by you…)
Symbols:
1. Yorick’s skull
2. Ophelia’s flowers
3. Clothing
4. Mourning colors/black
5. poison
Themes: 1. Deceit
2. Appearance vs. reality
3. Family relationships
4. Death and its impact on the living
5. Revenge
6. friendship
Act 1 (Hamlet means prince; ghost refers to King Hamlet)
Francisco is on guard duty. Bernardo relieves him and is joined by Horatio and Marcellus, who see the ghost, but it won’t speak to them.
King and Queen hold court, and Laertes is given permission to return to school in Paris.
K/Q tell H To get over his dad’s death.
Act 1
In his soliloquy, Hamlet reveals his sadness over his father’s death and mother’s quick marriage.
Hamlet is told of the ghost.
Laertes tells Ophelia to stay away from Hamlet.
Polonius gives Laertes all sorts of advice.
Act 1
There is a party in the castle.
Horatio, Marcellus and Hamlet are outside the castle when the ghost appears.
Hamlet follows the ghost; it is dead King Hamlet. The ghost tells Hamlet to avenge his death (Claudius killed him), but not to harm Gertrude.
Horatio and Marcellus have heard the conversation.
Act 2
Reynaldo is sent to spy on Laertes in Paris. Polonius doesn’t really trust his son.
Prince Hamlet has begun to act “mad.” The debate is whether he really is mad or just acting. Polonius thinks the behavior is lovesickness over Ophelia.
R and G are asked by the king to spy on Hamlet and to find out reason behind his madness.
Act 2
Polonius enters and says that Hamlet’s strange behavior is because of Ophelia’s rejection of him, but Claudius disagrees and wants proof.
Claudius and Polonius plan for Ophelia to meet Hamlet and speak to him while they hide and listen in.
R and G admit to Hamlet that they have been told to spy.
Act 2
Actors come to the castle to perform. Hamlet seizes this opportunity and asks them to perform a specific play, “The Murder of Gonzago.” He asks one player to insert 12-16 lines that he will add to the original play.
Hamlet feels that the play will reveal the guilt of Claudius. “The play’s the thing wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king.”
Act 3
R and G tell the king that they aren’t sure of Hamlet’s behavior.
Hamlet’s soliloquy reveals his confusion, whether he should kill himself or Claudius. Religious reasons hold him back.
Hamlet denies ever loving Ophelia, perhaps to save her from the doom he knows is coming.
Act 3
Polonius is no longer convinced of Hamlet’s lovesickness.
During the play, Claudius leaves when the murderer puts poison in the actor king’s ear. Hamlet sees it as an admission of guilt. Hamlet will focus on his revenge against Claudius.
Claudius reveals that he intends to send Hamlet to England.
Act 3
Gertrude wants to speak to her son before he leaves . Hamlet goes to her chambers, while Polonius hides behind the arras to listen in. When she cries out, Hamlet stabs the arras, thinking it’s Claudius.
When he realizes it’s Polonius, he takes the body away and hides it. Everyone thinks Hamlet is mad for real.
Act 4
The queen reveals the death of Polonuis.Claudius orders the body of Polonius found.
Claudius says Hamlet must be sent away.
King tells Hamlet that he’s being sent to England; R and G are ordered to go with him to see that he gets there.
In a soliloquy, Claudius reveals that Hamlet will be put to death in England.
Act 4
Fortinbras and an army cross Denmark. King Fortinbras was defeated by old King Hamlet, and Norway lost some land to Denmark. So, Prince Fortinbras had a vendetta to get Denmark. However, a truce was settled and now Denmark agrees to let Norway cross Danish territory on their way to Poland to fight over a fairly worthless piece of land.
Act 5
Ophelia has drowned…suicide.
Grave diggers discuss whether she deserves a Christian burial; one thinks she doesn’t since she committed suicide.
They speak with Hamlet and Horatio, not knowing who Hamlet is.
They pull up skulls, which cause Hamlet to reflect upon life/death, etc.
Act5
One skull belonged to Yorick, the king’s jester when Hamlet was a child.
The funeral procession comes. Laertes and Hamlet get into a scuffle on the grave. Hamlet says that he truly loved Ophelia. Queen declares Hamlet mad.
Hamlet leaves, and Claudius reminds Laertes that he can soon get revenge.
Act 5
Hamlet lets it be known that he has returned; he had earlier sent a message to Horatio. Now he reveals that his ship was attacked, and he was the only one to escape. He rewrote the letter to England, which now says that R and G (the bearers of the letter) are to be put to death.
Act 5
Osric brings the duel challenge from Laertes. Laertes and Claudius have a plan to “fix” the duel with poisoned swords and drinks.
Hamlet begins by apologizing to Laertes, but L. doesn’t accept. The duel. Gertrude drinks the poisoned wine by accident. Laertes scrapes Hamlet with the poisoned sword.
Act 5
Hamlet and Laertes mistakenly exchange swords, and Hamlet strikes at Laertes (with the poisoned sword).
Gertrude realizes that she has been poisoned. Laertes also admits his role in the chaos.
Hamlet lunges at Claudius and kills him.
Act 5
Fortinbras is named as king of Denmark ( no one else left in succession).
Horatio summarizes the tragedy.
Hamlet is to be given a hero’s burial.
DEAD PEOPLE: King Hamlet, Polonius, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Ophelia, Gertrude, Claudius, Prince Hamlet, and Laertes…
Written between 1599-1601.
The historical background dates to the 12th century.
A tragedy with Hamlet as the tragic hero, with revenge as the tragic flaw.
Setting: Denmark; 12th century; Royal castle called Elsinore
Hamlet Characters (cont. on slide 4)
Hamlet: prince of Denmark
Claudius: King of Denmark; uncle to Prince Hamlet
Gertrude: queen; Prince’s mother
Polonius: govt; official to Claudius
Horatio: Prince’s friend
Laertes: son to Polonius
Ophelia: former love to Prince H; daughter to Polonius
Young Fortinbras: Prince of Norway
Genre Information
Genre: tragedy
Characteristics:1. a tragic hero who is genuinely a good person but who has a flaw that sets into motion the action of the play.
Use of soliloquy and asides to pass on necessary information (I.e. Hamlet’s “to be or not to be…”)
Hamlet Characters
Rosencrantz & Guildenstern: schoolmates of Prince
Osric: messenger
Voltimand and Cornelius: ambassadors from Norway
Marcellus, Bernardo and Francisco: castle guards
Reynaldo: servant to Polonius; sent to spy on Laertes
Grave diggers: comic relief in the play
Ghost: King Hamlet; father to Prince H.
Symbols and Themes (to be completed by you…)
Symbols:
1. Yorick’s skull
2. Ophelia’s flowers
3. Clothing
4. Mourning colors/black
5. poison
Themes: 1. Deceit
2. Appearance vs. reality
3. Family relationships
4. Death and its impact on the living
5. Revenge
6. friendship
Act 1 (Hamlet means prince; ghost refers to King Hamlet)
Francisco is on guard duty. Bernardo relieves him and is joined by Horatio and Marcellus, who see the ghost, but it won’t speak to them.
King and Queen hold court, and Laertes is given permission to return to school in Paris.
K/Q tell H To get over his dad’s death.
Act 1
In his soliloquy, Hamlet reveals his sadness over his father’s death and mother’s quick marriage.
Hamlet is told of the ghost.
Laertes tells Ophelia to stay away from Hamlet.
Polonius gives Laertes all sorts of advice.
Act 1
There is a party in the castle.
Horatio, Marcellus and Hamlet are outside the castle when the ghost appears.
Hamlet follows the ghost; it is dead King Hamlet. The ghost tells Hamlet to avenge his death (Claudius killed him), but not to harm Gertrude.
Horatio and Marcellus have heard the conversation.
Act 2
Reynaldo is sent to spy on Laertes in Paris. Polonius doesn’t really trust his son.
Prince Hamlet has begun to act “mad.” The debate is whether he really is mad or just acting. Polonius thinks the behavior is lovesickness over Ophelia.
R and G are asked by the king to spy on Hamlet and to find out reason behind his madness.
Act 2
Polonius enters and says that Hamlet’s strange behavior is because of Ophelia’s rejection of him, but Claudius disagrees and wants proof.
Claudius and Polonius plan for Ophelia to meet Hamlet and speak to him while they hide and listen in.
R and G admit to Hamlet that they have been told to spy.
Act 2
Actors come to the castle to perform. Hamlet seizes this opportunity and asks them to perform a specific play, “The Murder of Gonzago.” He asks one player to insert 12-16 lines that he will add to the original play.
Hamlet feels that the play will reveal the guilt of Claudius. “The play’s the thing wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king.”
Act 3
R and G tell the king that they aren’t sure of Hamlet’s behavior.
Hamlet’s soliloquy reveals his confusion, whether he should kill himself or Claudius. Religious reasons hold him back.
Hamlet denies ever loving Ophelia, perhaps to save her from the doom he knows is coming.
Act 3
Polonius is no longer convinced of Hamlet’s lovesickness.
During the play, Claudius leaves when the murderer puts poison in the actor king’s ear. Hamlet sees it as an admission of guilt. Hamlet will focus on his revenge against Claudius.
Claudius reveals that he intends to send Hamlet to England.
Act 3
Gertrude wants to speak to her son before he leaves . Hamlet goes to her chambers, while Polonius hides behind the arras to listen in. When she cries out, Hamlet stabs the arras, thinking it’s Claudius.
When he realizes it’s Polonius, he takes the body away and hides it. Everyone thinks Hamlet is mad for real.
Act 4
The queen reveals the death of Polonuis.Claudius orders the body of Polonius found.
Claudius says Hamlet must be sent away.
King tells Hamlet that he’s being sent to England; R and G are ordered to go with him to see that he gets there.
In a soliloquy, Claudius reveals that Hamlet will be put to death in England.
Act 4
Fortinbras and an army cross Denmark. King Fortinbras was defeated by old King Hamlet, and Norway lost some land to Denmark. So, Prince Fortinbras had a vendetta to get Denmark. However, a truce was settled and now Denmark agrees to let Norway cross Danish territory on their way to Poland to fight over a fairly worthless piece of land.
Act 5
Ophelia has drowned…suicide.
Grave diggers discuss whether she deserves a Christian burial; one thinks she doesn’t since she committed suicide.
They speak with Hamlet and Horatio, not knowing who Hamlet is.
They pull up skulls, which cause Hamlet to reflect upon life/death, etc.
Act5
One skull belonged to Yorick, the king’s jester when Hamlet was a child.
The funeral procession comes. Laertes and Hamlet get into a scuffle on the grave. Hamlet says that he truly loved Ophelia. Queen declares Hamlet mad.
Hamlet leaves, and Claudius reminds Laertes that he can soon get revenge.
Act 5
Hamlet lets it be known that he has returned; he had earlier sent a message to Horatio. Now he reveals that his ship was attacked, and he was the only one to escape. He rewrote the letter to England, which now says that R and G (the bearers of the letter) are to be put to death.
Act 5
Osric brings the duel challenge from Laertes. Laertes and Claudius have a plan to “fix” the duel with poisoned swords and drinks.
Hamlet begins by apologizing to Laertes, but L. doesn’t accept. The duel. Gertrude drinks the poisoned wine by accident. Laertes scrapes Hamlet with the poisoned sword.
Act 5
Hamlet and Laertes mistakenly exchange swords, and Hamlet strikes at Laertes (with the poisoned sword).
Gertrude realizes that she has been poisoned. Laertes also admits his role in the chaos.
Hamlet lunges at Claudius and kills him.
Act 5
Fortinbras is named as king of Denmark ( no one else left in succession).
Horatio summarizes the tragedy.
Hamlet is to be given a hero’s burial.
DEAD PEOPLE: King Hamlet, Polonius, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Ophelia, Gertrude, Claudius, Prince Hamlet, and Laertes…
Thursday, July 8, 2010
The Metamorphosis
Franz Kafka
1883-1924
Lived in Prague, Czechoslovakia
Jewish
Worked selling insurance, writing on the side
The Russian Revolution occurred in 1917, with the communist takeover of Russia and Eastern Europe to follow in the years to come. This short story/novella takes place as these events are still in development and infancy, and capitalism is a unique idea in this part of the world.
Kafka (Cont.)
Kafka wrote much about man’s struggle to survive in a world of political upheavals.
Kafka” died in 1924 before the major changes in Europe occurred in the 1930s-1940s.
Several of his family members died in concentration camps in the 1940s.
Symbols
The number 3: segments of a bug; parts of the story
Boss/work: employer looks down on employees; consequences of capitalism
Woman’s picture/couch: last elements of “humanness” in Gregor’s room
Time/clock: human acceptance of time as running one’s life
Themes
Gregor as a universal human: Man lives a life of futility in an absurd, barren world that lacks true meaning.
Faceless forces: These faceless forces crush man and his ability to be successful.
As a religious allegory: God causes suffering; Man must endure.
Capitalism is evil: Look what happens to a man who works hard and is dedicated. Greedy, money hungry evil businesses will be the world’s ruin.
Characters
Gregor Samsa: protagonist; works hard; turns into a dung beetle; the main wage earner
Grete: Gregor’s sister; she plays the violin; she relies on Gregor; he was to send her to music school
Mother: quiet; allows father to run the house; freaks out but still loves Gregor
Father: doesn’t work; gets mad at Gregor for being a bug; low self esteem that turns to violence
Characters
Charwoman: the maid who must clean up after Gregor after mom refuses to and sister gives up
Chief clerk: one of the employees in Gregor’s office
Boss: Gregor’s boss who doesn’t understand why he isn’t at work; accuses Gregor of some wrongdoing
Significance
An early attempt at the bizarre. The story does not follow typical literary conventions. The characters are not as developed as in a novel, but the reader is given more information regarding characters and their aspirations.
Kafka’s characters are both dynamic and static. He uses the bizarre to make a point or to suggest what might happen if his society continues in the direction of capitalism or socialism. In other words, he suggests neither as positive, just what might happen if one takes control.
“The Metamorphosis”
Chapter 1:
Protagonist is Gregor Samsa, a salesman.
He wakes to discover that he has changed. He’s a dung beetle. He stays in his room as mother, father and sister knock and try to get him out.
Gregor worries that they’ll know because his voice is different.
“The Metamorphosis”
Chapter 1 cont.:
Gregor cannot get out of bed or roll over. He thinks his new state is all a dream (he hopes so anyway.)
He is late for work, and tries completely to ignore his situation. He hates his job, but it’s his only source of “being.”
He still lives at home, but is an adult (just like Kafka.)
“The Metamorphosis”
Chapter 1 cont.: The chief clerk tries to talk sense into Gregor saying that he’s worrying his family.
Gregor’s speech is now no longer understandable, but he is able to open the door. This causes Gregor’s mother to panic and the clerk leaves (after telling about Gregor’s poor work habits of late).
“The Metamorphosis”
Gregor is shoved back into his room with a stick the clerk has left behind. All is then silent.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 2
Gregor’s sister Grete has brought him a bowl of milk with bread in it, but he finds it distasteful.
He finds food in the trash and cries because of his own hunger.
Grete brings him food each day and cleans his room. She leaves a chair by the window for Gregor to look out the window.
“The Metamorphosis” ch 2
His mother and father won’t come in and Grete prides herself on being able to look after Gregor, but she doesn’t like the sight of him, so he hides under a sheet.
The family had been supported by Gregor’s job. Gregor wanted to help send Grete to music school.
Gregor’s new pastime is crawling the walls.
“The Metamorphosis” ch 2
While moving the furniture, Gregor shocks his mother, and is cut by a falling bottle. When the father comes home, he chases Gregor around the room, throwing apples at him. Gregor is injured.
Gregor loses consciousness with his mother crying at his side.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 3
3 months have passed, total. (1 since ch 2)
Mother, father and sister are all working and are in good health, but they are overworked. They begin to become indifferent to Gregor.
Gregor’s room is filthy as no one spends any time with him.
A char woman (maid of sorts) is hired to clean and she makes comments to Gregor.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 3
3 boarders are taken in and Grete plays for them. Gregor moves toward her music and the borders are disgusted.
They want to be rid of Gregor.
He returns to his room and dies there at 3 in the morning. The maid finds him dead. The body is taken away. The boarders are told to leave.
The family goes out for a walk.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 3
The family decides to move. The parents look at Grete and mention about how she has changed.
No mention is made of Gregor or their loss.
1883-1924
Lived in Prague, Czechoslovakia
Jewish
Worked selling insurance, writing on the side
The Russian Revolution occurred in 1917, with the communist takeover of Russia and Eastern Europe to follow in the years to come. This short story/novella takes place as these events are still in development and infancy, and capitalism is a unique idea in this part of the world.
Kafka (Cont.)
Kafka wrote much about man’s struggle to survive in a world of political upheavals.
Kafka” died in 1924 before the major changes in Europe occurred in the 1930s-1940s.
Several of his family members died in concentration camps in the 1940s.
Symbols
The number 3: segments of a bug; parts of the story
Boss/work: employer looks down on employees; consequences of capitalism
Woman’s picture/couch: last elements of “humanness” in Gregor’s room
Time/clock: human acceptance of time as running one’s life
Themes
Gregor as a universal human: Man lives a life of futility in an absurd, barren world that lacks true meaning.
Faceless forces: These faceless forces crush man and his ability to be successful.
As a religious allegory: God causes suffering; Man must endure.
Capitalism is evil: Look what happens to a man who works hard and is dedicated. Greedy, money hungry evil businesses will be the world’s ruin.
Characters
Gregor Samsa: protagonist; works hard; turns into a dung beetle; the main wage earner
Grete: Gregor’s sister; she plays the violin; she relies on Gregor; he was to send her to music school
Mother: quiet; allows father to run the house; freaks out but still loves Gregor
Father: doesn’t work; gets mad at Gregor for being a bug; low self esteem that turns to violence
Characters
Charwoman: the maid who must clean up after Gregor after mom refuses to and sister gives up
Chief clerk: one of the employees in Gregor’s office
Boss: Gregor’s boss who doesn’t understand why he isn’t at work; accuses Gregor of some wrongdoing
Significance
An early attempt at the bizarre. The story does not follow typical literary conventions. The characters are not as developed as in a novel, but the reader is given more information regarding characters and their aspirations.
Kafka’s characters are both dynamic and static. He uses the bizarre to make a point or to suggest what might happen if his society continues in the direction of capitalism or socialism. In other words, he suggests neither as positive, just what might happen if one takes control.
“The Metamorphosis”
Chapter 1:
Protagonist is Gregor Samsa, a salesman.
He wakes to discover that he has changed. He’s a dung beetle. He stays in his room as mother, father and sister knock and try to get him out.
Gregor worries that they’ll know because his voice is different.
“The Metamorphosis”
Chapter 1 cont.:
Gregor cannot get out of bed or roll over. He thinks his new state is all a dream (he hopes so anyway.)
He is late for work, and tries completely to ignore his situation. He hates his job, but it’s his only source of “being.”
He still lives at home, but is an adult (just like Kafka.)
“The Metamorphosis”
Chapter 1 cont.: The chief clerk tries to talk sense into Gregor saying that he’s worrying his family.
Gregor’s speech is now no longer understandable, but he is able to open the door. This causes Gregor’s mother to panic and the clerk leaves (after telling about Gregor’s poor work habits of late).
“The Metamorphosis”
Gregor is shoved back into his room with a stick the clerk has left behind. All is then silent.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 2
Gregor’s sister Grete has brought him a bowl of milk with bread in it, but he finds it distasteful.
He finds food in the trash and cries because of his own hunger.
Grete brings him food each day and cleans his room. She leaves a chair by the window for Gregor to look out the window.
“The Metamorphosis” ch 2
His mother and father won’t come in and Grete prides herself on being able to look after Gregor, but she doesn’t like the sight of him, so he hides under a sheet.
The family had been supported by Gregor’s job. Gregor wanted to help send Grete to music school.
Gregor’s new pastime is crawling the walls.
“The Metamorphosis” ch 2
While moving the furniture, Gregor shocks his mother, and is cut by a falling bottle. When the father comes home, he chases Gregor around the room, throwing apples at him. Gregor is injured.
Gregor loses consciousness with his mother crying at his side.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 3
3 months have passed, total. (1 since ch 2)
Mother, father and sister are all working and are in good health, but they are overworked. They begin to become indifferent to Gregor.
Gregor’s room is filthy as no one spends any time with him.
A char woman (maid of sorts) is hired to clean and she makes comments to Gregor.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 3
3 boarders are taken in and Grete plays for them. Gregor moves toward her music and the borders are disgusted.
They want to be rid of Gregor.
He returns to his room and dies there at 3 in the morning. The maid finds him dead. The body is taken away. The boarders are told to leave.
The family goes out for a walk.
“The Metamorphosis” Ch 3
The family decides to move. The parents look at Grete and mention about how she has changed.
No mention is made of Gregor or their loss.
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