17. “Professor Pieixoto scarcely needs any introduction, as he is well known…and the well-known study ‘Iran and Gilead: Two Late-Twentieth-Century Monotheocracies, as Seen Through Diaries.’”(Page 300)
The “Historical Notes” begin with a notation of the studies Professor Pieixoto has been involved with. One of these studies is a comparison between the Iranian government of the late 20th century to Atwood’s Republic of Gilead. In the late 20th century, the government of Iran was very conservative. Women were under heavy restrictions (i.e. not a lot of freedom with their clothes or what they did). Furthermore, the Iranian government denied that the Holocaust happened and attempted to hide historic events from the Iranian people. In Atwood’s novel, the government tries to hide the past before the Republic of Gilead was created.
“Iran in the 20th Century.” Emayzine 2001. Web. 25 Apr. 2010. http://www.emayzine.com/lectures/Iran20Century.html.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 307)
16. “Our big mistake was teaching them how to read. We won’t do that again.” (Page 307):
This passage is taken from the historical notes, which serves as an afterward. Atwood once again addresses the idea that reading serves as a control in a dystopian state. Reading gives you access to power and knowledge. When you limit knowledge, you will have control. According to Socyberty, totalitarian governments often come to power through tactics such as "propaganda, indoctrination, and censorship." Atwood embraces this control throughout the novel. The control over reading and knowledge is an example of the censorship seen in a totalitarian government.
"The Rise of Totalitarian Governments | Socyberty." Socyberty | Society on the Web. Web. 03 June 2010. http://socyberty.com/history/the-rise-of-totalitarian-governments/.
This passage is taken from the historical notes, which serves as an afterward. Atwood once again addresses the idea that reading serves as a control in a dystopian state. Reading gives you access to power and knowledge. When you limit knowledge, you will have control. According to Socyberty, totalitarian governments often come to power through tactics such as "propaganda, indoctrination, and censorship." Atwood embraces this control throughout the novel. The control over reading and knowledge is an example of the censorship seen in a totalitarian government.
"The Rise of Totalitarian Governments | Socyberty." Socyberty | Society on the Web. Web. 03 June 2010. http://socyberty.com/history/the-rise-of-totalitarian-governments/.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 275)
15. “This she takes an undue length of time to unfold and scan. She’s rubbing our noses in it, letting us know exactly who she is, making us watch her as she silently read, flaunting her prerogative.” (Page 275):
In this excerpt, Atwood address two of her main themes: how a totalitarian state works and control through the power of reading. Offred is at a gathering where women will be punished for crimes they have committed. Atwood describes the frustration and anger that Offred feels for Aunt Lydia. Aunt Lydia is allowed to read and write because she has special privileges. The totalitarian government maintained control not only through surveillance, information control and torture but also by keeping the people in charge happy and giving them the illusion of power. Furthermore, in dystopian areas language plays a big part of control. If people can not read, they will not be educated. If people are not informed, they will not know what is going on. If people cannot read, they will not get any ideas. They will be more easily controlled.
In this excerpt, Atwood address two of her main themes: how a totalitarian state works and control through the power of reading. Offred is at a gathering where women will be punished for crimes they have committed. Atwood describes the frustration and anger that Offred feels for Aunt Lydia. Aunt Lydia is allowed to read and write because she has special privileges. The totalitarian government maintained control not only through surveillance, information control and torture but also by keeping the people in charge happy and giving them the illusion of power. Furthermore, in dystopian areas language plays a big part of control. If people can not read, they will not be educated. If people are not informed, they will not know what is going on. If people cannot read, they will not get any ideas. They will be more easily controlled.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 269)
14. “It makes me feel more in control, as if there is a choice, a decision that could be made one way or the other.” (Page 269):
Atwood wrote Handmaid’s Tale in the 1980’s during the anti-feminist backlash in which feminists were criticized for breaking the female tradition of a housewife. Atwood’s main themes include sexual power struggle and struggle for control. Women struggle for a sense of power. Atwood’s novel is set in a female dystopia. Females have very limited rights depending on their social status. Women struggle for anything that makes them feel as if they have control over their lives.
“Powell’s Books-Review-a-Day-The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, Reviewed by Powells.com” Powell’s Books – Used, New and Out of Print – We Buy and Sell. Web. 25 April 2010. http://www.powells.com/review/2005_08_13.html.
Atwood wrote Handmaid’s Tale in the 1980’s during the anti-feminist backlash in which feminists were criticized for breaking the female tradition of a housewife. Atwood’s main themes include sexual power struggle and struggle for control. Women struggle for a sense of power. Atwood’s novel is set in a female dystopia. Females have very limited rights depending on their social status. Women struggle for anything that makes them feel as if they have control over their lives.
“Powell’s Books-Review-a-Day-The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, Reviewed by Powells.com” Powell’s Books – Used, New and Out of Print – We Buy and Sell. Web. 25 April 2010. http://www.powells.com/review/2005_08_13.html.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 221)
13. “And Adam was not deceived, but the women being deceived was in the transgression. Notwithstanding she shall be saved by childbearing.” (Page 221):
Atwood makes many religious references through her novel. This quote is part of what rulers of Gilead use to support the Republic of Gilead and its rituals. Women are not allowed to read. This is sort of a blind faith to the listeners since they do not get to see it or read anything other than what is read to them. In the past, the bible was only printed in Latin; old Catholic preists took advantage of bible because people did not know what the text really said- only what was told to them. The Republic of Gilead does this once again; only the Commander is allowed to read passages of the bible to listeners before rituals; only Aunt Lydia is allowed to read commandments before executions. Furthermore, this restriction mirrors the media that is broadcasted to viewers in the Republic of Gilead. Viewers only get to see what the leaders want them to see. This ties back to Atwood’s theme of control throughout the novel.
“Tudors – Protestant or Catholic.” History on the Net Main Page. Web. 25 April 2010. http://www.historyonthenet.com/Tudors/protestant_catholic.htm.
Atwood makes many religious references through her novel. This quote is part of what rulers of Gilead use to support the Republic of Gilead and its rituals. Women are not allowed to read. This is sort of a blind faith to the listeners since they do not get to see it or read anything other than what is read to them. In the past, the bible was only printed in Latin; old Catholic preists took advantage of bible because people did not know what the text really said- only what was told to them. The Republic of Gilead does this once again; only the Commander is allowed to read passages of the bible to listeners before rituals; only Aunt Lydia is allowed to read commandments before executions. Furthermore, this restriction mirrors the media that is broadcasted to viewers in the Republic of Gilead. Viewers only get to see what the leaders want them to see. This ties back to Atwood’s theme of control throughout the novel.
“Tudors – Protestant or Catholic.” History on the Net Main Page. Web. 25 April 2010. http://www.historyonthenet.com/Tudors/protestant_catholic.htm.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 210)
12. “The problem wasn’t only with the women, he says. The main problem was with the men. There was nothing for them anymore . . . I’m not talking about sex, he says. That was part of it, the sex was too easy…You know what they were complaining about the most? Inability to feel. Men were turning off on sex, even. They were turning off on marriage. Do they feel now? I say. Yes, he says, looking at me. They do.” (Page 210):
In this passage Atwood depicts the Commander attempting to justify the creation of Gilead. The Commander states that because women had become equal to men and because sex was so easily accessible that men had lost their meaning. His justification may seem noble to him, however, the price of men feeling important has cost the happiness and freedom of both men and women. Atwood expresses that true happiness comes from freedom not the importance of control.
In this passage Atwood depicts the Commander attempting to justify the creation of Gilead. The Commander states that because women had become equal to men and because sex was so easily accessible that men had lost their meaning. His justification may seem noble to him, however, the price of men feeling important has cost the happiness and freedom of both men and women. Atwood expresses that true happiness comes from freedom not the importance of control.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 145- 146)
11. “He was not a monster, to her. Probably he had some endearing trait: he whistled, off-key, in the shower, he had a yen for truffles, he called his dog Liebchen and made it sit up for little pieces of raw steak. How easy it is to invent a humanity, for anyone at all. What an available temptation.” (Pages 145-146):
In this narrative Atwood contrasts the Commander to a Nazi concentration camp worker. Offred is the mistress of the Commander; the Nazi worker had a mistress as well. Offred is depicted remembering that the German mistress said that the Nazi worker was not evil. Offred struggles with her situation. Although the Commander is nice to her and provides her with entertainment, he is also the creator of her unhappiness and struggles. Atwood depicts Offred attempting to make the best of her situation and yet knowing that her excuses are illusions.
In this narrative Atwood contrasts the Commander to a Nazi concentration camp worker. Offred is the mistress of the Commander; the Nazi worker had a mistress as well. Offred is depicted remembering that the German mistress said that the Nazi worker was not evil. Offred struggles with her situation. Although the Commander is nice to her and provides her with entertainment, he is also the creator of her unhappiness and struggles. Atwood depicts Offred attempting to make the best of her situation and yet knowing that her excuses are illusions.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 88)
10. “Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth... that I may also have children by her.” (Page 88):
Atwood uses Christian beliefs as the fundamentals of her dystopian community. Those who control Gilead use the Bible to justify the torture, discrimination and killing. Atwood used the Bible because the Bible was written in a very dystopian era. Technology was not advanced. Women were discriminated against. Men had multiple wives. Jesus himself, the “savior” of the time, was killed for his beliefs. However, it is ironic that Atwood used the Bible to justify Gilead and their ways when the Bible was meant to serve as an inspiration for people and as a guide to living and because the development of the Christian religion shared similarities to the setting of The Handmaid’s Tale. People during the early days of Christianity were either prevented from reading the Bible or unable to read. People were unsure of its content but were told that they were sinners if they did not do as church leaders told them. Priests and church leaders were very controlling of what was represented to the public about the faith. So there is a connection between the development of Christianity and the development of Atwood’s story; the power of reading and control is similar. In terms of cultural context, there are similarities. In a way, the Catholic community was that of a totalitarian. Atwood uses the Bible in a negative way to justify the darkness of her dystopia.
Atwood uses Christian beliefs as the fundamentals of her dystopian community. Those who control Gilead use the Bible to justify the torture, discrimination and killing. Atwood used the Bible because the Bible was written in a very dystopian era. Technology was not advanced. Women were discriminated against. Men had multiple wives. Jesus himself, the “savior” of the time, was killed for his beliefs. However, it is ironic that Atwood used the Bible to justify Gilead and their ways when the Bible was meant to serve as an inspiration for people and as a guide to living and because the development of the Christian religion shared similarities to the setting of The Handmaid’s Tale. People during the early days of Christianity were either prevented from reading the Bible or unable to read. People were unsure of its content but were told that they were sinners if they did not do as church leaders told them. Priests and church leaders were very controlling of what was represented to the public about the faith. So there is a connection between the development of Christianity and the development of Atwood’s story; the power of reading and control is similar. In terms of cultural context, there are similarities. In a way, the Catholic community was that of a totalitarian. Atwood uses the Bible in a negative way to justify the darkness of her dystopia.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 73)
9. “I used to think of my body as an instrument, of pleasure, or a means of transportation, or an implement for the accomplishment of my will . . . Now the flesh arranges itself differently. I’m a cloud, congealed around a central object, the shape of a pear, which is hard and more real than I am and glows red within its translucent wrapping.” (Pages 73-74):
In this passage Atwood contrasts the way Offred used to feel about her body to the way she now feels about her body. Atwood depicts Offred feeling as if her body is now an object; her body is controlled by others and told what to do. Her purpose is to get pregnant and reproduce.
In this passage Atwood contrasts the way Offred used to feel about her body to the way she now feels about her body. Atwood depicts Offred feeling as if her body is now an object; her body is controlled by others and told what to do. Her purpose is to get pregnant and reproduce.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 66)
8. “I wait. I compose myself. My self is a thing I must now compose, as one composes a speech. What I must present is a made thing, not something born.” (Page 66):
In The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood creates a dystopia in which women and people of different ethnicities are treated as sub-human. Women’s statuses are reduced to their ability of becoming pregnant. They are treated as nothing other than an organ used to produce a baby. Gilead aims to deprive women of individuality and make them bring in a new generation that will not know the past ways of freedom. Feminists are deprived of status and are called “unwomen”; babies with disabilities are called “unbabbies”; and blacks and Jews are given names from the Bible such as “Children of Ham” and “Sons of Jacob.”
In The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood creates a dystopia in which women and people of different ethnicities are treated as sub-human. Women’s statuses are reduced to their ability of becoming pregnant. They are treated as nothing other than an organ used to produce a baby. Gilead aims to deprive women of individuality and make them bring in a new generation that will not know the past ways of freedom. Feminists are deprived of status and are called “unwomen”; babies with disabilities are called “unbabbies”; and blacks and Jews are given names from the Bible such as “Children of Ham” and “Sons of Jacob.”
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 39)
7. “I would like to believe this is a story I’m telling. I need to believe it. I must believe it. Those who can believe that such stories are only stories have a better chance. If it’s a story I’m telling, then I have control over the ending. Then there will be an ending, to the story, and real life will come after it. I can pick up where I left off.” (Page 39):
In Atwood’s novel, the Gilead culture denies women rights; women have no control for themselves the way they used to. Atwood depicts Offred as thinking of her situation as a story. It was Offred’s coping mechanism. That way, she can go through her life’s motions pretending that she has control of the ending. It helps her accept the horrible things that have happened to her.
In Atwood’s novel, the Gilead culture denies women rights; women have no control for themselves the way they used to. Atwood depicts Offred as thinking of her situation as a story. It was Offred’s coping mechanism. That way, she can go through her life’s motions pretending that she has control of the ending. It helps her accept the horrible things that have happened to her.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 33)
6. “Ordinary, said Aunt Lydia, is what you are used to. This may not seem ordinary to you now, but after a time it will. It will become ordinary.” (Page 33):
Atwood depicts Offred as she looks at the white figures hanging by the red wall remembering these words spoken by Aunt Lydia. Atwood uses this quote to reflect the power and control of a totalitarian government. Offred remembers the old ways; however, she is told that she must learn the new ways. The new ways are controlled and violent but she is told that she must adapt and find these things to be normal. In order to do this, one must make themselves emotionally numb. Atwood depicts Offred’s struggle to adapt to this new system and consider torture and current practices normal or ordinary.
Atwood depicts Offred as she looks at the white figures hanging by the red wall remembering these words spoken by Aunt Lydia. Atwood uses this quote to reflect the power and control of a totalitarian government. Offred remembers the old ways; however, she is told that she must learn the new ways. The new ways are controlled and violent but she is told that she must adapt and find these things to be normal. In order to do this, one must make themselves emotionally numb. Atwood depicts Offred’s struggle to adapt to this new system and consider torture and current practices normal or ordinary.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 9)
5. “She puts on her veil…but nobody much cares who sees the face of a Martha.” (Page 9)
The women who work in the households are called “the Marthas.” In the Bible, Martha was a woman who served Jesus; she was known for her hospitality. Since there are not very many woman referenced in the Bible, Martha does stand out as a female of the time. Atwood weaves Biblical references into the development of The Handmaid’s Tale. “Marthas” in the Handmaid’s Tale serve others. Marthas were women who were either unable to conceive or past the time in life when they could have children. They were not woman with any social rank. They were servers, but we are allowed to know their real names too. The Marthas are not threatening to the totalitarian state, and they have an accepted, assigned role in the culture.
“Martha.” Bible History Online. 20 April 2010.
The women who work in the households are called “the Marthas.” In the Bible, Martha was a woman who served Jesus; she was known for her hospitality. Since there are not very many woman referenced in the Bible, Martha does stand out as a female of the time. Atwood weaves Biblical references into the development of The Handmaid’s Tale. “Marthas” in the Handmaid’s Tale serve others. Marthas were women who were either unable to conceive or past the time in life when they could have children. They were not woman with any social rank. They were servers, but we are allowed to know their real names too. The Marthas are not threatening to the totalitarian state, and they have an accepted, assigned role in the culture.
“Martha.” Bible History Online. 20 April 2010.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 9)
4. “At the bottom of the stairs there’s a hat-and-umbrella…black, for the Commander, blue, for the Commander’s wife, and the one assigned to me, which is red.” (Page 9)
Atwood again uses color to give her story context. The people’s stations are defined by color. Black is for those in control and who have power. Blue is used to define those with secure status. Red is used for the women who are of child bearing years. It’s interesting that she uses red for women like Offred because red is recognized in current times as a passionate color and a color of love (hearts, lipstick, ads in women’s magazines). However, women like Offred were being schooled not to be passionate or to allow love to cloud their duties so it becomes startling because the reader begins to associate red as symbolic of fertility which was their purpose.
Atwood again uses color to give her story context. The people’s stations are defined by color. Black is for those in control and who have power. Blue is used to define those with secure status. Red is used for the women who are of child bearing years. It’s interesting that she uses red for women like Offred because red is recognized in current times as a passionate color and a color of love (hearts, lipstick, ads in women’s magazines). However, women like Offred were being schooled not to be passionate or to allow love to cloud their duties so it becomes startling because the reader begins to associate red as symbolic of fertility which was their purpose.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 8)
3. “I am alive, I live, I breathe, I put my hand out, unfolded, into the sunlight. Where I am is not a prison but a privilege….” (Page 8):
Offred is trying to come to terms with the life that has been assigned to her. She will keep her thoughts to herself, and she will recognize the blessings of her situation. She values her life even as she is frustrated by her situation. Atwood reveals Offred’s character with these words and show Offred to be a strong woman.
Offred is trying to come to terms with the life that has been assigned to her. She will keep her thoughts to herself, and she will recognize the blessings of her situation. She values her life even as she is frustrated by her situation. Atwood reveals Offred’s character with these words and show Offred to be a strong woman.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 8)
2. “…their red shoes, flat-heeled to save the spine and not for dancing. The red gloves…wings around my face is red: the color of blood, which defines us.” (Page 8):
Atwood uses color in the book to define characters and to depict the totalitarian state. Women in Offred’s station wear red, and they cannot be mistaken. Later in the book we learn that Offred’s daughter is now being dressed in white. The reader is able to discern that children will grow up without any reference for a different life; they will most likely accept what is presented to them as being normal and real. Offred has a memory of what life used to be like, and she can also remember being able to make her own decisions about clothing.
Atwood uses color in the book to define characters and to depict the totalitarian state. Women in Offred’s station wear red, and they cannot be mistaken. Later in the book we learn that Offred’s daughter is now being dressed in white. The reader is able to discern that children will grow up without any reference for a different life; they will most likely accept what is presented to them as being normal and real. Offred has a memory of what life used to be like, and she can also remember being able to make her own decisions about clothing.
Handmaid's Tale (pg. 4)
1. “In this way we exchanged names, from bed to bed: Alma. Janine. Delores. Moira. June.” (Page 4):
This quote is taken from the first section of The Handmaid’s Tale. The first section serves as a foreshadow to the main themes of the novel. The first section deals with darkness, control and fear. This line also foreshadows the storyline that the novel will follow. The names listed are characters throughout the novel that Offred knows and suffers with. With these lines, Atwood is able to provide the reader with a sense of what the women experience at being required to behave in a certain manner and the little victories that they feel when they are able to communicate their true names in secret. Handmaid’s Tale depicts the struggles Offred goes through in addition to these young women.
This quote is taken from the first section of The Handmaid’s Tale. The first section serves as a foreshadow to the main themes of the novel. The first section deals with darkness, control and fear. This line also foreshadows the storyline that the novel will follow. The names listed are characters throughout the novel that Offred knows and suffers with. With these lines, Atwood is able to provide the reader with a sense of what the women experience at being required to behave in a certain manner and the little victories that they feel when they are able to communicate their true names in secret. Handmaid’s Tale depicts the struggles Offred goes through in addition to these young women.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Pride and Prejudice (Pg, 187-188)
18. “…loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable; that one false step involves her in endless ruin – that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful – and that she cannot be too much guarded in her behavior towards the undeserving of the other sex.” (Page 187-188):
Mary Bennet is speaking about Lydia and Wickham. This passage demonstrates many of the themes in Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. First and foremost, Austen addresses the importance of reputation. Lydia is not only jeopardizing her own reputation but also the reputations of her sisters by running away with Wickham. Furthermore, we are shown how society will judge the family if this matter is found out. During this time, Elizabeth is concerned about Mr. Darcy and how he will think of the family. She believes this situation will ruin any slim chance she had left with him. Austen is showing us that respect plays a role in social standing. The reader gets a sense of the injustice of the situation for Lydia because she doesn’t recognize Wickham as a villain but also the injustice of being judged not for who you are but by the actions of others.
Mary Bennet is speaking about Lydia and Wickham. This passage demonstrates many of the themes in Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. First and foremost, Austen addresses the importance of reputation. Lydia is not only jeopardizing her own reputation but also the reputations of her sisters by running away with Wickham. Furthermore, we are shown how society will judge the family if this matter is found out. During this time, Elizabeth is concerned about Mr. Darcy and how he will think of the family. She believes this situation will ruin any slim chance she had left with him. Austen is showing us that respect plays a role in social standing. The reader gets a sense of the injustice of the situation for Lydia because she doesn’t recognize Wickham as a villain but also the injustice of being judged not for who you are but by the actions of others.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 143)
17. "To Elizabeth it appeared, that had her family made an agreement to expose themselves as much as they could during the evening, it would have been impossible for them to play their parts with more spirit, or finer success; and happy did she think it for Bingley and her sister that some of the exhibition had escaped his notice, and that his feelings were not of a sort to be much distressed by the folly which he must have witnessed" (Page 143):
In this quote, Austen touches on the theme of the importance of reputation and behavior and also class and society. Elizabeth is embarrassed of her family’s behavior at the ball and Netherfield. She can sense her family's inferiority. Austen is also showing us that although Elizabeth denies that she cares about her appearance to Darcy, she is sensible enough to recognize the importance or proper behavior.
In this quote, Austen touches on the theme of the importance of reputation and behavior and also class and society. Elizabeth is embarrassed of her family’s behavior at the ball and Netherfield. She can sense her family's inferiority. Austen is also showing us that although Elizabeth denies that she cares about her appearance to Darcy, she is sensible enough to recognize the importance or proper behavior.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 137)
16. "How despicably have I acted!' she cried. - 'I, who have prided myself on my discernment! - I, who have valued myself on my abilities!" (Page 137):
This passage is written after Elizabeth reads the letter from Darcy. Austen shows the reader that Elizabeth is recognizing the failing of her prideful behavior and the prejudice against the pride in Darcy. Elizabeth now sees things in a new light. This is the passage in which a major shift occurs; Austen now begins to depict the marriage and perfect life that could exist between Darcy and Elizabeth.
This passage is written after Elizabeth reads the letter from Darcy. Austen shows the reader that Elizabeth is recognizing the failing of her prideful behavior and the prejudice against the pride in Darcy. Elizabeth now sees things in a new light. This is the passage in which a major shift occurs; Austen now begins to depict the marriage and perfect life that could exist between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 125)
15. “You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you…His sense of her inferiority…of family obstacles…” (Page 125):
Mr. Darcy's declaration of love for Elizabeth is a perfect example of the complications of love throughout the novel. Darcy has felt as if he is unable to acknowledge his love for Elizabeth because of own beliefs of social class. There were many obstacles to overcome to get true love in Pride and Prejudice. The most obvious of these obstacles are pride and prejudice. However, she concludes the novel with Elizabeth and Darcy together. The reader may be surprised by these emotions Mr. Darcy expresses but it serves to make the story even more appealing. Austen has developed Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth’s characters in similar ways and is now developing the pride and prejudice theme even further showing us that too much pride leads to prejudice and how disastrous that can be.
Mr. Darcy's declaration of love for Elizabeth is a perfect example of the complications of love throughout the novel. Darcy has felt as if he is unable to acknowledge his love for Elizabeth because of own beliefs of social class. There were many obstacles to overcome to get true love in Pride and Prejudice. The most obvious of these obstacles are pride and prejudice. However, she concludes the novel with Elizabeth and Darcy together. The reader may be surprised by these emotions Mr. Darcy expresses but it serves to make the story even more appealing. Austen has developed Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth’s characters in similar ways and is now developing the pride and prejudice theme even further showing us that too much pride leads to prejudice and how disastrous that can be.
Pride and Prejudice (pg. 85)
14. "I see what you are feeling," replied Charlotte. "You must be surprised, very much surprised--so lately as Mr. Collins was wishing to marry you. But when you have had time to think it over, I hope you will be satisfied with what I have done. I am not romantic, you know; I never was. I ask only a comfortable home; and considering Mr. Collins's character, connection, and situation in life, I am convinced that my chance of happiness with him is as fair as most people can boast on entering the marriage state.” (Page 85):
According to the Notes on Education, Marriage, Status of Women, women in Austen’s time had no way of becoming independent during this time period. Women would always rely on someone whether it was their families or their husband. Society also considered it a very bad thing if women did not get married. They would become spinsters if they did not find a husband and would be considered a nuisance or burden. Charlotte realized that since she would not inherit an estate or enough money to live on, she would have to find a husband to support her. Austen depicts the choices of this time had to make; sometimes, women had to choose between poverty or marriage. Marriage was not always for love during this time, sometimes it was for survival. Austen writes about this situation for women so clearly in Pride and Prejudice and she shows that women can be smart, creative, and talented (like Elizabeth) and still be at the mercy of social rules.
"Jane Austen: Pride and Prejudice -- Notes on Education, Marriage, Status of Women, Etc." Jane Austen | The Republic of Pemberley. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/pptopic2.html#protofem1.
According to the Notes on Education, Marriage, Status of Women, women in Austen’s time had no way of becoming independent during this time period. Women would always rely on someone whether it was their families or their husband. Society also considered it a very bad thing if women did not get married. They would become spinsters if they did not find a husband and would be considered a nuisance or burden. Charlotte realized that since she would not inherit an estate or enough money to live on, she would have to find a husband to support her. Austen depicts the choices of this time had to make; sometimes, women had to choose between poverty or marriage. Marriage was not always for love during this time, sometimes it was for survival. Austen writes about this situation for women so clearly in Pride and Prejudice and she shows that women can be smart, creative, and talented (like Elizabeth) and still be at the mercy of social rules.
"Jane Austen: Pride and Prejudice -- Notes on Education, Marriage, Status of Women, Etc." Jane Austen | The Republic of Pemberley. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/pptopic2.html#protofem1.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 83)
13. “The younger girls formed hope of coming out a year or two sooner…” (Page 83):
The context of words changes so much over time. Austen is writing about the girls being introduced to society and shows they are prepared to live as adult women when she writes “coming out.” It can still have this meaning today, but it may be most often used as a reference to people making known their sexual orientation. In this passage, Austen is again showing how women were dependent on marriage or a male relative to provide for their futures. Love is a bit of a luxury when faced with homelessness, poverty, and hunger. By writing about it so openly, Austen gives the reader clear insight as to what women in society are experiencing in their daily lives. Austen paints a clear picture as to what roles women of certain social standings face in their lives.
"Jane Austen: Pride and Prejudice -- Notes on Education, Marriage, Status of Women, Etc." Jane Austen | The Republic of Pemberley. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/pptopic2.html#protofem1.
The context of words changes so much over time. Austen is writing about the girls being introduced to society and shows they are prepared to live as adult women when she writes “coming out.” It can still have this meaning today, but it may be most often used as a reference to people making known their sexual orientation. In this passage, Austen is again showing how women were dependent on marriage or a male relative to provide for their futures. Love is a bit of a luxury when faced with homelessness, poverty, and hunger. By writing about it so openly, Austen gives the reader clear insight as to what women in society are experiencing in their daily lives. Austen paints a clear picture as to what roles women of certain social standings face in their lives.
"Jane Austen: Pride and Prejudice -- Notes on Education, Marriage, Status of Women, Etc." Jane Austen | The Republic of Pemberley. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/pptopic2.html#protofem1.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 47)
12. “…he chose Fordyce’s Sermons.” (Page 47):
The book that Mr. Collins chose to read aloud are sermons for young women written by James Fordyce in 1766. Women were warned against vanities and fashionable pleasures. Austen uses this passage to further represent Mr. Collins in a bad light for the Bennet girls would not be interested in these readings. Austen is also showing her views as she has Mr. Collins, who is shown as a somewhat ridiculous character, reading these sermons it shows that Austen would likely not agree with the advice given to young ladies in the sermons.
“Regency History.” The Jane Austen Centre: Celebrating Bath’s Most Famous Resident. 10March2010. http://www.janeausten.co.uk/magazine/index.ihtml?pid=249&step=4.
The book that Mr. Collins chose to read aloud are sermons for young women written by James Fordyce in 1766. Women were warned against vanities and fashionable pleasures. Austen uses this passage to further represent Mr. Collins in a bad light for the Bennet girls would not be interested in these readings. Austen is also showing her views as she has Mr. Collins, who is shown as a somewhat ridiculous character, reading these sermons it shows that Austen would likely not agree with the advice given to young ladies in the sermons.
“Regency History.” The Jane Austen Centre: Celebrating Bath’s Most Famous Resident. 10March2010. http://www.janeausten.co.uk/magazine/index.ihtml?pid=249&step=4.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 45)
11. “She had also asked him twice to dine at Rosings, and had sent for him only the Saturday before, to make up her pool of quadrille in the evening.” (Page 45):
During this period of time, Quadrille was both the name of a card game and a dance. The Quadrille is a lively dance, and was introduced to England by a Miss Berry to the Duke of Devonshire in 1808. It became popular in 1813, which is also the year that Pride and Prejudice was first published. As a card game, it was loosing popularity at this time. This would help set a tone for Lady Catherine de Bough’s personality. She was a lady who would give orders in the form of an invitation and who would play unpopular card games because that is what she wanted.
Krueger, Beverly. “The Card Games of Jane Austen.” Eclectic Homeschool Online. 2007. 25February2010. http://eclectichomeschool.org/articles/article.asp?articleid=559.
"StreetSwing's Dance History Archives - Quadrille Dance Page - Main1." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3quad1.htm.
During this period of time, Quadrille was both the name of a card game and a dance. The Quadrille is a lively dance, and was introduced to England by a Miss Berry to the Duke of Devonshire in 1808. It became popular in 1813, which is also the year that Pride and Prejudice was first published. As a card game, it was loosing popularity at this time. This would help set a tone for Lady Catherine de Bough’s personality. She was a lady who would give orders in the form of an invitation and who would play unpopular card games because that is what she wanted.
Krueger, Beverly. “The Card Games of Jane Austen.” Eclectic Homeschool Online. 2007. 25February2010. http://eclectichomeschool.org/articles/article.asp?articleid=559.
"StreetSwing's Dance History Archives - Quadrille Dance Page - Main1." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3quad1.htm.
Pride and Prejudice (pg. 43)
10. “... Monday, November 18th, by four o'clock, and shall probably trespass on your hospitality till the Saturday se’night following...” (Page 43):
A sennight is a period of 7 days and 7 nights. So, Mr. Collins is saying that he plans to stay for a week past Saturday – almost two weeks total. Sennight is derived from middle english (15th century): “seofon nihta.” The word sennight stayed a form of British English until the 20th century when the shorter term “week” finally took over. Austen uses this letter for character development as the reader (and the Bennet family) begins to think about William Collins and what type of person he will turn out to be.
"Sennight - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary." Dictionary and Thesaurus - Merriam-Webster Online. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sennight.
"World Wide Words: Sennight." Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.worldwidewords.org/weirdwords/ww-sen1.htm.
A sennight is a period of 7 days and 7 nights. So, Mr. Collins is saying that he plans to stay for a week past Saturday – almost two weeks total. Sennight is derived from middle english (15th century): “seofon nihta.” The word sennight stayed a form of British English until the 20th century when the shorter term “week” finally took over. Austen uses this letter for character development as the reader (and the Bennet family) begins to think about William Collins and what type of person he will turn out to be.
"Sennight - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary." Dictionary and Thesaurus - Merriam-Webster Online. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sennight.
"World Wide Words: Sennight." Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.worldwidewords.org/weirdwords/ww-sen1.htm.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 32)
9. “Mr. Hurst and Mr. Bingley were at piquet, and Mrs. Hurst was observing their game.” (Page 32):
Piquet is a well established card game that dates back to the 1600's. However, the modern day variation was published by Lord Frederick Cavendish (7th Duke of Devonshire) in 1882. Piquet is played with two players. During Austen's time period, gaming and gambling was a very popular activity among the upper classes. In this passage, Austen highlights the fact that Mr. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst were members of the upper-class.
"All About Romance Novels - Gambling in Historic England." All About Romance (Novels, Reviews, Books, Reading) - Home Page. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.likesbooks.com/gambling.html.
"Lord Frederick Cavendish - Biography of Lord Frederick Cavendish." Spiritus-Temporis.com - Historical Events, Latest News, News Archives. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/lord-frederick-cavendish/.
"Rules of : Piquet." Card Games. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.pagat.com/notrump/piquet.html.
Piquet is a well established card game that dates back to the 1600's. However, the modern day variation was published by Lord Frederick Cavendish (7th Duke of Devonshire) in 1882. Piquet is played with two players. During Austen's time period, gaming and gambling was a very popular activity among the upper classes. In this passage, Austen highlights the fact that Mr. Bingley and Mrs. Hurst were members of the upper-class.
"All About Romance Novels - Gambling in Historic England." All About Romance (Novels, Reviews, Books, Reading) - Home Page. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.likesbooks.com/gambling.html.
"Lord Frederick Cavendish - Biography of Lord Frederick Cavendish." Spiritus-Temporis.com - Historical Events, Latest News, News Archives. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/lord-frederick-cavendish/.
"Rules of : Piquet." Card Games. Web. 06 Mar. 2010. http://www.pagat.com/notrump/piquet.html.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 18)
8. "I had once had some thought of fixing in town myself--for I am fond of superior society; but I did not feel quite certain that the air of London would agree with Lady Lucas." (Page 18):
Popular opinion of the time period was that the town and urban areas were far “superior” to the country. Once more, Austen distinguishes the themes of class and social standings.
Popular opinion of the time period was that the town and urban areas were far “superior” to the country. Once more, Austen distinguishes the themes of class and social standings.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 16)
7. “…both like Vingt-uh better than Commerce…” (page 16):
Vingt-uh and Commerce are both card games. People of social standing had leisure time on their hands. They passed this time reading, talking with each other, and playing cards. Some other activities that ladies may have used this time to paint, play the piano, or needlepoint. Men may have hunted or talked about politics. One activity men and women could enjoy together was to play cards. Vingt-uh is known as black jack or twenty-one in our language (vingt-uh being French for twenty-one) and Commerce was more complicated and kind of like poker. Austen is pointing out that Jane and Bingley are spending time together playing cards and having dinner and because of this some people speculate that Mr. Bingley is developing feelings for Jane. This would be very beneficial for Jane as Bingley has enough money to provide for her. These passages help the reader to understand that the Bennet women may have had some social standing but they would not have anything after their dad died. This made a relationship with someone who had money very desirable because it would provide for the girls.
Krueger, Beverly. “The Card Games of Jane Austen.” Eclectic Homeschool Online. 2007. 25February2010. http://eclectichomeschool.org/articles/article.asp?articleid=559.
Vingt-uh and Commerce are both card games. People of social standing had leisure time on their hands. They passed this time reading, talking with each other, and playing cards. Some other activities that ladies may have used this time to paint, play the piano, or needlepoint. Men may have hunted or talked about politics. One activity men and women could enjoy together was to play cards. Vingt-uh is known as black jack or twenty-one in our language (vingt-uh being French for twenty-one) and Commerce was more complicated and kind of like poker. Austen is pointing out that Jane and Bingley are spending time together playing cards and having dinner and because of this some people speculate that Mr. Bingley is developing feelings for Jane. This would be very beneficial for Jane as Bingley has enough money to provide for her. These passages help the reader to understand that the Bennet women may have had some social standing but they would not have anything after their dad died. This made a relationship with someone who had money very desirable because it would provide for the girls.
Krueger, Beverly. “The Card Games of Jane Austen.” Eclectic Homeschool Online. 2007. 25February2010. http://eclectichomeschool.org/articles/article.asp?articleid=559.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 14)
6. "That is very true," replied Elizabeth, "and I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine." (Page 14):
Pride is one of the large themes of the novel. In this quote, Austen directly addresses the issue. Pride is found in both Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth takes pride in herself; she feels as if she is “too good” to let others look down on her. While Darcy is “prideful” in his possessions and his riches. He is “too good” for Elizabeth. In reality, they are perfect for each other but each are to caught up in their own pride to be able to see any good qualities in the other.
Pride is one of the large themes of the novel. In this quote, Austen directly addresses the issue. Pride is found in both Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth takes pride in herself; she feels as if she is “too good” to let others look down on her. While Darcy is “prideful” in his possessions and his riches. He is “too good” for Elizabeth. In reality, they are perfect for each other but each are to caught up in their own pride to be able to see any good qualities in the other.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 12)
5. “... risen to the honor of knighthood by an address to the King, during his mayoralty.” (Page 12):
Austen makes another reference to social class and standing. Mayoralty means the office or term of office of a mayor and is used in reference to Sir William Lucas who was knighted while he was serving in this manner. This makes Sir William Lucas a worthy acquaintance and neighbor, and someone who the Bennets socialize with regularly.
"Mayoralty - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary." Dictionary and Thesaurus - Merriam-Webster Online. Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mayoralty.
Austen makes another reference to social class and standing. Mayoralty means the office or term of office of a mayor and is used in reference to Sir William Lucas who was knighted while he was serving in this manner. This makes Sir William Lucas a worthy acquaintance and neighbor, and someone who the Bennets socialize with regularly.
"Mayoralty - Definition and More from the Free Merriam-Webster Dictionary." Dictionary and Thesaurus - Merriam-Webster Online. Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mayoralty.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 9)
4. “... And the two fifth with Jane again, and the two sixth with Lizzy, and the Boulanger.” (Page 9):
The Boulanger was an English Country Dance . The dance reached its popularity peak in Austen's lifetime. The Boulanger was a "mixer" dance; it was repetitive and moved so partners were changed and every dancer had the opportunity to dance with every partner of the opposite sex at least once. Austen most likely referenced this dance because she was most familiar with it. According to the Georgian Index, Austen often used dances as parallels to marriage. This may be connected to the relationship between Lizzy and Darcy. When they dance together, they struggle for conversation, just as they struggle to acknowledge their love for each other.
"Dance." Georgian Index -- Alphabetical Site map. Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.georgianindex.net/Dance/dance.html
The Boulanger was an English Country Dance . The dance reached its popularity peak in Austen's lifetime. The Boulanger was a "mixer" dance; it was repetitive and moved so partners were changed and every dancer had the opportunity to dance with every partner of the opposite sex at least once. Austen most likely referenced this dance because she was most familiar with it. According to the Georgian Index, Austen often used dances as parallels to marriage. This may be connected to the relationship between Lizzy and Darcy. When they dance together, they struggle for conversation, just as they struggle to acknowledge their love for each other.
"Dance." Georgian Index -- Alphabetical Site map. Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.georgianindex.net/Dance/dance.html
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 8-9)
3. “Which do you mean?” and turning round, he looked for a moment at Elizabeth, till catching her eye, he withdrew his own and coldly said, “She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me; and I am in no humor at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men. You had better return to your partner” (Pages 8-9):
This quote demonstrates Darcy’s attitude to country folk; he feels that everyone at the ball is inferior to him. Austen demonstrates Darcy’s pride and prejudice against society that is lower in class than himself. This passage once again connects back to the main themes of the novel: pride and prejudice.
This quote demonstrates Darcy’s attitude to country folk; he feels that everyone at the ball is inferior to him. Austen demonstrates Darcy’s pride and prejudice against society that is lower in class than himself. This passage once again connects back to the main themes of the novel: pride and prejudice.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 3)
2. “... Take possession before Michaelmas...” (Page 3):
Michaelmas is a day when Christians celebrate with a feast in honor of St. Michael. Michaelmas is the 29th of September and marks the beginning of the Fall season. It is named after Michael or St. Michael who is referenced in the bible as the head of the angels. According to "Chambers' Book of Days" it is common for rents to be paid, and burgal magistracies and councils are re-elected on this day in England. Furthermore, it is a widespread tradition to eat goose at dinner on this day. Austen may have acknowledged this day in the beginning of her book to show the role that society will play in this book. Austen is giving the reader a since that social standings, connections, and politics will play a major role in Pride and Prejudice.
"Michaelmas." © Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.. 13 Mar. 2010. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Michaelmas.
"September 29th." The Hyperlinked & Searchable Chambers' 1869 'The Book of Days' Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.thebookofdays.com/months/sept/29.htm.
Michaelmas is a day when Christians celebrate with a feast in honor of St. Michael. Michaelmas is the 29th of September and marks the beginning of the Fall season. It is named after Michael or St. Michael who is referenced in the bible as the head of the angels. According to "Chambers' Book of Days" it is common for rents to be paid, and burgal magistracies and councils are re-elected on this day in England. Furthermore, it is a widespread tradition to eat goose at dinner on this day. Austen may have acknowledged this day in the beginning of her book to show the role that society will play in this book. Austen is giving the reader a since that social standings, connections, and politics will play a major role in Pride and Prejudice.
"Michaelmas." © Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.. 13 Mar. 2010. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Michaelmas.
"September 29th." The Hyperlinked & Searchable Chambers' 1869 'The Book of Days' Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.thebookofdays.com/months/sept/29.htm.
Pride and Prejudice (Pg. 3)
1. “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” (Page 3):
The first line of the novel serves many purposes. First and foremost it foreshadows the pursuit of Mr. Bingley and other men that would serve as good husbands. Austen demonstrates the attitude of women toward the pursuit of men and marriage during this time. Austen shows the reader that the preoccupations of marriage went both ways; society demanded marriage. Austen also shows the desire and desperate want of a husband and marriage during this time.
The first line of the novel serves many purposes. First and foremost it foreshadows the pursuit of Mr. Bingley and other men that would serve as good husbands. Austen demonstrates the attitude of women toward the pursuit of men and marriage during this time. Austen shows the reader that the preoccupations of marriage went both ways; society demanded marriage. Austen also shows the desire and desperate want of a husband and marriage during this time.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
19. Great Expectations (pg. 482)
19. Great Expectations (pg. 482): “A cold silvery mist had veiled the afternoon, and the moon was not yet up to scatter it. But, the stars were shining beyond the mist, and the moon was coming, and the evening was not dark...”:
In this passage, Dickens speaks of the moon scattering the mist. Dickens uses these words in a metaphorical sense. Mist stops one from seeing. However, the moon will clear the mist that night; the stars will be shinning. Pip and Estella will find each other. In these writings, the symbolism of the mist, the moon, the stars, and the evening that "was not dark" all lead the reader to feel that though things have been uncertain for Pip throughout the story, things are to clear up for him. Dickens begins to conclude his book on a happy note. Pip’s confusion will be cleared, and his desires will be met tonight. According to David Purdue, Dickens Great Expectations had an unhappy ending at first. Estella married another man, and she and Pip went their separate ways. Dickens was advised to change his ending to make the story more popular with readers.
Purdue, David. “Great Expectations.” David Purdue’s Charles Dickens Page. 1997-2009. 29 December 2009.
http://charlesdickenspage.com/expectations.html
“Symbolism in Literature.” Scribd. 10 September 2008. 29 December 2009.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6472314/Symbolism-in-Literature.
In this passage, Dickens speaks of the moon scattering the mist. Dickens uses these words in a metaphorical sense. Mist stops one from seeing. However, the moon will clear the mist that night; the stars will be shinning. Pip and Estella will find each other. In these writings, the symbolism of the mist, the moon, the stars, and the evening that "was not dark" all lead the reader to feel that though things have been uncertain for Pip throughout the story, things are to clear up for him. Dickens begins to conclude his book on a happy note. Pip’s confusion will be cleared, and his desires will be met tonight. According to David Purdue, Dickens Great Expectations had an unhappy ending at first. Estella married another man, and she and Pip went their separate ways. Dickens was advised to change his ending to make the story more popular with readers.
Purdue, David. “Great Expectations.” David Purdue’s Charles Dickens Page. 1997-2009. 29 December 2009.
http://charlesdickenspage.com/expectations.html
“Symbolism in Literature.” Scribd. 10 September 2008. 29 December 2009.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6472314/Symbolism-in-Literature.
18. Expectations (pg.416)
18. Expectations (pg.416): “But, there was recompense in the joy with which Herbert would come home of a night and tell me of these changes, little imagining that he told me no news, and would sketch airy pictures of himself conducting Clara Barley to the land of the Arabian Nights, and of me going out to join them (with a caravan of camels, I believe), and of our all going up the Nile and seeing wonders.”:
In this passage, Dickens writes of Herbert's wishes to take Clara to the land of Arabian Nights. This is a reference to the Middle East (mainly Egypt and Arabia). The Middle East, in this time, was a mysterious place. Herbert speaks of living with camels and traveling up the Nile River to see all of the wonders. The Arabian Nights are also adventure stories. Dickens makes this reference to show that while Herbert still dreams of adventure and does not see reality clearly, Pip is now being forced to face the reality of his life.
“The Thousand and One Nights.” Encyclopædia Britannica. 2010. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. 29 December 2009. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/593514/The-Thousand-and-One-Nights.
In this passage, Dickens writes of Herbert's wishes to take Clara to the land of Arabian Nights. This is a reference to the Middle East (mainly Egypt and Arabia). The Middle East, in this time, was a mysterious place. Herbert speaks of living with camels and traveling up the Nile River to see all of the wonders. The Arabian Nights are also adventure stories. Dickens makes this reference to show that while Herbert still dreams of adventure and does not see reality clearly, Pip is now being forced to face the reality of his life.
“The Thousand and One Nights.” Encyclopædia Britannica. 2010. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. 29 December 2009. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/593514/The-Thousand-and-One-Nights.
17. Great Expectations (pg. 324)
17. Great Expectations (pg. 324): “... the fire was dead, and the wind and rain intensified the thick black darkness.”:
Dickens word choice in this section uses imagery and is also symbolic. The bleak imagery of the dead fire and the storm and darkness reflect Pip’s feelings. Pip is sad, and he feels lost now that he knows who his benefactor is. He had been certain that Miss Havisham was the one who had been helping him. Dickens finishes the second part of the book with this gloomy imagery. Pip’s sister is dead. He feels lost. All is black, dark, and stormy in his life. When the storm passes, we will find out how Pip will deal with things. Great Expectations was written in installments. This ending also served as a way to get the reader to keep looking for the next installment to find out what eventually happens.
Allingham, Phillip V. “An Introduction to Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations.” 31 July 2004. 29 December 2009. http://www.victorianweb.org/authors/dickens/ge/pva10.html.
“Symbolism in Literature.” Scribd. 10 September 2008. 29 December 2009.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6472314/Symbolism-in-Literature. gentleman.
Dickens word choice in this section uses imagery and is also symbolic. The bleak imagery of the dead fire and the storm and darkness reflect Pip’s feelings. Pip is sad, and he feels lost now that he knows who his benefactor is. He had been certain that Miss Havisham was the one who had been helping him. Dickens finishes the second part of the book with this gloomy imagery. Pip’s sister is dead. He feels lost. All is black, dark, and stormy in his life. When the storm passes, we will find out how Pip will deal with things. Great Expectations was written in installments. This ending also served as a way to get the reader to keep looking for the next installment to find out what eventually happens.
Allingham, Phillip V. “An Introduction to Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations.” 31 July 2004. 29 December 2009. http://www.victorianweb.org/authors/dickens/ge/pva10.html.
“Symbolism in Literature.” Scribd. 10 September 2008. 29 December 2009.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6472314/Symbolism-in-Literature. gentleman.
16. Great Expectations (pg. 285)
16. Great Expectations (pg. 285): “Once more, the mists were rising as I walked away.”:
Dickens uses mist to foreshadow that fact that “Biddy was quite right;” Pip will probably not come back to visit soon. Mist stops one from having clear sight of things and shows something that is separate. Dickens portrays Pip to now understand the fact that he has been treating Joe and Biddy badly. Dickens shows the reader that Pip is remorseful, but he still will not make good on his promise to visit. Pip is isolated but it is because of his own choices. Furthermore, this quote is near the end of the second stage of Pip’s Expectations. Dickens is drawing a conclusion, and beginning to shift Pip into the third stage of Expectations. By using mist, Dickens also is using imagery to create a dismal tone. Pip does not realize what is ahead of him and what he will learn about the origin of his expectations in the next section. (Dickens used mist was used symbolically at the end of each of the three sections in Great Expectations.)
“Symbolism in Literature.” Scribd. 10 September 2008. 29 December 2009.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6472314/Symbolism-in-Literature.
Dickens uses mist to foreshadow that fact that “Biddy was quite right;” Pip will probably not come back to visit soon. Mist stops one from having clear sight of things and shows something that is separate. Dickens portrays Pip to now understand the fact that he has been treating Joe and Biddy badly. Dickens shows the reader that Pip is remorseful, but he still will not make good on his promise to visit. Pip is isolated but it is because of his own choices. Furthermore, this quote is near the end of the second stage of Pip’s Expectations. Dickens is drawing a conclusion, and beginning to shift Pip into the third stage of Expectations. By using mist, Dickens also is using imagery to create a dismal tone. Pip does not realize what is ahead of him and what he will learn about the origin of his expectations in the next section. (Dickens used mist was used symbolically at the end of each of the three sections in Great Expectations.)
“Symbolism in Literature.” Scribd. 10 September 2008. 29 December 2009.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6472314/Symbolism-in-Literature.
15. Great Expectations (pg.212)
15. Great Expectations (pg.212): “... but I know that I had been to see Macbeth at the theatre, a night or two before, and that her face looked to me as if it were all disturbed by fiery air, like the faces I had seen rise out of the Witches’ caldron.”:
Dickens uses a reference to Shakespeare's Macbeth to describe Molly, the housekeeper. The witches in Macbeth foreshadow the tragic events that will take place throughout the play. By describing Molly in this creepy way, Dickens creates a tone of suspense, agitation, and wariness for the dinner group. Because of his work, Mr. Jaggers is often surrounded by people who are criminals. One is not sure what the housekeeper might do or has done.
Dickens uses a reference to Shakespeare's Macbeth to describe Molly, the housekeeper. The witches in Macbeth foreshadow the tragic events that will take place throughout the play. By describing Molly in this creepy way, Dickens creates a tone of suspense, agitation, and wariness for the dinner group. Because of his work, Mr. Jaggers is often surrounded by people who are criminals. One is not sure what the housekeeper might do or has done.
14. Great Expectations (pg.206)
14. Great Expectations (pg.206): “‘At nine o'clock every night, Greenwich time,’ said Wemmick, ‘the gun fires. There he is, you see! And when you hear him go, I think you'll say he's a Stinger.’”:
Greenwich, England is the "zero point" or prime meridian and determines the worldwide system of time zone and latitude. A Stinger is a person who “stings” by insults. However, it also means “a highball of whiskey and soda” in informal British language. Wemmick is referencing the firing of the gun as being something unique that he created that is memorable to watch. Dickens makes the reference to Greenwich time to tell the reader that the gun fires precisely at nine everyday as measured by the time in Greenwich, England. Dickens develops Wemmick’s character by beginning to show us the great contrast between where Wemmick lives and what he has created and cares for and where he works.
“Greenwich 2000.” Greenwichmeantime.com. 15 December 2008. 27 December 2009. http://wwp.greenwich2000.com/
“Stinger.” Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 02 Jan. 2010..
Greenwich, England is the "zero point" or prime meridian and determines the worldwide system of time zone and latitude. A Stinger is a person who “stings” by insults. However, it also means “a highball of whiskey and soda” in informal British language. Wemmick is referencing the firing of the gun as being something unique that he created that is memorable to watch. Dickens makes the reference to Greenwich time to tell the reader that the gun fires precisely at nine everyday as measured by the time in Greenwich, England. Dickens develops Wemmick’s character by beginning to show us the great contrast between where Wemmick lives and what he has created and cares for and where he works.
“Greenwich 2000.” Greenwichmeantime.com. 15 December 2008. 27 December 2009. http://wwp.greenwich2000.com/
“Stinger.” Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 02 Jan. 2010.
13. Great Expectations (pg.176)
13. Great Expectations (pg.176): “Pooh!” said he, “I didn't care much for it. She's a Tartar.”:
A Tartar was a member of one of the many tribes of followers of Genghis Khan. Dickens makes this reference to illustrate Estella's hardness and savage behavior and to show Herbert Pocket’s dislike of Estella. Herbert’s expression also serves to emphasize Pip’s constant adoration of Estella despite all advice to the contrary from people that he respects.
“Tartar.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 02 Jan. 2010..
ferocious or violent tempered person
A Tartar was a member of one of the many tribes of followers of Genghis Khan. Dickens makes this reference to illustrate Estella's hardness and savage behavior and to show Herbert Pocket’s dislike of Estella. Herbert’s expression also serves to emphasize Pip’s constant adoration of Estella despite all advice to the contrary from people that he respects.
“Tartar.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 02 Jan. 2010.
ferocious or violent tempered person
12. Great Expectations (pg. 165)
12. Great Expectations (pg. 165): “So, I rubbed it off with all possible speed by turning into a street where I saw the great black dome of St. Paul’s bulging at me from behind a grim stone building which a bystander said was Newgate Prison.”:
This quote depicts Pip's first impressions of London. He is going for a walk down the street and notices the dirtiness and stench of the city. Dickens puts two very contrasting images into one scene: Saint Paul's cathedral. a place for worship and Newgate Prison, a place for people who have been charged with crimes. Using imagery, Dickens reinforces his theme of good and bad by symbolizing crime and guilt with the prison and mirroring this with the cathedral which represents innocence.
“Dickens’ London.” David Purdue’s Charles Dickens Page. 1997-2010. 23 December 2009. http://charlesdickenspage.com/dickens_london_map.html#N.
This quote depicts Pip's first impressions of London. He is going for a walk down the street and notices the dirtiness and stench of the city. Dickens puts two very contrasting images into one scene: Saint Paul's cathedral. a place for worship and Newgate Prison, a place for people who have been charged with crimes. Using imagery, Dickens reinforces his theme of good and bad by symbolizing crime and guilt with the prison and mirroring this with the cathedral which represents innocence.
“Dickens’ London.” David Purdue’s Charles Dickens Page. 1997-2010. 23 December 2009. http://charlesdickenspage.com/dickens_london_map.html#N.
11. Great Expectations (pg.112)
11. Great Expectations (pg.112): “Now, Joe kept a journeyman at weekly wages whose name was Orlick…This morose journeyman had no liking for me”:
Pip was now an apprentice to Joe. He was to learn the trade of blacksmithing. Usually people had to pay a fee to become apprenticed to learn a trade, and they would work for several years learning the trade. After the term of the contract was up, the apprentice was eligible to work for money. When they began work for money, they were a journeyman. Dickens’ writing sets the correct setting for Great Expectations. The reader has a clear idea where Pip came from and what his upbringing was like. Dickens’ attention to imagery and details in the writing develop the story.
“Discovering Dickens. A Community Reading Project.” Stanford University 2005. 27 December 2009.
http://dickens.stanford.edu/dickens/archive/great/great_issue1gloss.html
“journeyman.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 27 December 2009.. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/journeyman.
Pip was now an apprentice to Joe. He was to learn the trade of blacksmithing. Usually people had to pay a fee to become apprenticed to learn a trade, and they would work for several years learning the trade. After the term of the contract was up, the apprentice was eligible to work for money. When they began work for money, they were a journeyman. Dickens’ writing sets the correct setting for Great Expectations. The reader has a clear idea where Pip came from and what his upbringing was like. Dickens’ attention to imagery and details in the writing develop the story.
“Discovering Dickens. A Community Reading Project.” Stanford University 2005. 27 December 2009.
http://dickens.stanford.edu/dickens/archive/great/great_issue1gloss.html
“journeyman.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 27 December 2009.. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/journeyman.
10. Great Expectations (pg. 94)
10. Great Expectations (pg. 94): “Whether myrmidons of Justice, specially sent down from London, would be lying in ambush behind the gate? Whether Miss Havisham, preferring to take personal vengeance for an outrage done to her house, might rise in those grave-clothes of hers, draw a pistol, and shoot me dead?”:
Dickens makes a reference to Greek mythology that speaks of Myrmidons, who were ants changed into men. Achilles’ soldiers that came with him to Troy were Myrmidons; these warriors carried out orders without question. Dickens is using this reference to illustrate the fear that Pip has that he will be punished for punching the “pale young gentleman.”
“myrmidon.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 27 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/myrmidon
“myrmidon.” Online Etymology Dictionary. Douglas Harper, Historian. 27 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/myrmidon.
Dickens makes a reference to Greek mythology that speaks of Myrmidons, who were ants changed into men. Achilles’ soldiers that came with him to Troy were Myrmidons; these warriors carried out orders without question. Dickens is using this reference to illustrate the fear that Pip has that he will be punished for punching the “pale young gentleman.”
“myrmidon.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 27 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/myrmidon
“myrmidon.” Online Etymology Dictionary. Douglas Harper, Historian. 27 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/myrmidon.
9. Great Expectations (pg. 60)
9. Great Expectations (pg. 60): “He calls the Knaves, Jacks, this boy!”:
Knaves is another word for Jacks. Estella and Pip are playing a card game. In a deck cards, the “jack” is one of the face cards that has a picture of a young man who is either a soldier or a servant. A Jack was called a knave until the mid-1500s and referred to “a male servant to royalty.” A card game in the 17th century that was popular in pubs led to the use of the word Jack for Knave as the popularity of the game increased. Estella would have considered the use of the word “Jack” crude because it was a slang word that the lower classes used and had not yet been adopted by the educated or upper class. With this quote, Dickens is highlighting the class difference and social standing between Estella and Pip.
“The Jack and the Knave.” Bicycle. 2009. 26 December 2009. http://www.bicyclecards.com/pages/the_jack_and_the_knave/39.php
“knave.” Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 27 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/knave.
Davis, Os. “Playing Cards: Their meanings, symbology, and history.” Live Casino Direct. 19 October 2009. 26 December 2009. http://www.livecasinodirect.com/casino-view/playing-cards-history-meaning/
Knaves is another word for Jacks. Estella and Pip are playing a card game. In a deck cards, the “jack” is one of the face cards that has a picture of a young man who is either a soldier or a servant. A Jack was called a knave until the mid-1500s and referred to “a male servant to royalty.” A card game in the 17th century that was popular in pubs led to the use of the word Jack for Knave as the popularity of the game increased. Estella would have considered the use of the word “Jack” crude because it was a slang word that the lower classes used and had not yet been adopted by the educated or upper class. With this quote, Dickens is highlighting the class difference and social standing between Estella and Pip.
“The Jack and the Knave.” Bicycle. 2009. 26 December 2009. http://www.bicyclecards.com/pages/the_jack_and_the_knave/39.php
“knave.” Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 27 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/knave.
Davis, Os. “Playing Cards: Their meanings, symbology, and history.” Live Casino Direct. 19 October 2009. 26 December 2009. http://www.livecasinodirect.com/casino-view/playing-cards-history-meaning/
8. Great Expectations (pg.45)
8. Great Expectations (pg.45): “ ‘MI DEER JO I ope U R ER Wite WELL I OPE I SHAL SON B HABELL 4 2…’… ‘I say, Pip, old chap!’ cried Joe… ‘what a scholar you are! An’t you?’”:
This is a note that Pip writes and reads to Joe. Dickens is using diction to show Pip and Joe’s lack of education and their common laborer life. Joe is a laborer who does not earn very much money, though he is able to support his household. At this point in the book, the language associated with Pip is uneducated. Much of the first section of the Great Expectations is written with this lower class diction style. Once Pip goes to London and begins his tutoring sessions, the diction used to reflect Pip’s voice changes. Pip’s education changes him, and he is very conscious of Joe’s lack of education. The change is language diction is symbolic of Dickens’ theme of social class; Dickens uses language to show separation. He also uses imagery to show class separation as when describing Joe in his laborer clothes, and developing Pip’s character as growing from this style of clothing to more suitable, gentlemanly clothes when he comes into his fortune and goes to London (“I dressed myself out in my new clothes…”pg.159).
Allingham, Phillip V. “An Introduction to Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations.” 31 July 2004. 29 December 2009. http://www.victorianweb.org/authors/dickens/ge/pva10.html.
This is a note that Pip writes and reads to Joe. Dickens is using diction to show Pip and Joe’s lack of education and their common laborer life. Joe is a laborer who does not earn very much money, though he is able to support his household. At this point in the book, the language associated with Pip is uneducated. Much of the first section of the Great Expectations is written with this lower class diction style. Once Pip goes to London and begins his tutoring sessions, the diction used to reflect Pip’s voice changes. Pip’s education changes him, and he is very conscious of Joe’s lack of education. The change is language diction is symbolic of Dickens’ theme of social class; Dickens uses language to show separation. He also uses imagery to show class separation as when describing Joe in his laborer clothes, and developing Pip’s character as growing from this style of clothing to more suitable, gentlemanly clothes when he comes into his fortune and goes to London (“I dressed myself out in my new clothes…”pg.159).
Allingham, Phillip V. “An Introduction to Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations.” 31 July 2004. 29 December 2009. http://www.victorianweb.org/authors/dickens/ge/pva10.html.
7. Great Expectations (pg. 44)
7. Great Expectations (pg. 44): “There was a fiction that Mr. Wopsle “examined” the scholars once a quarter. What he did on those occasions was to turn up his cuffs, stick up his hair, and give us Mark Antony’s oration over the body of Caesar.”:
Dickens makes a reference to Shakespeare's famous speech in his play, Julius Caesar. The above line “followed by Collins's Ode on the Passions” makes a reference to an English poet who lived from 1721- 1759. Dickens describes Mr. Wopsle's character by making allusions to Shakespeare and other famous poets highlighting Mr. Wopsle’s tendencies toward drama. Dickens may have referenced Julius Caesar because it shares common themes with Great Expectations. The themes of friendship and honor relate to both works. If one was familiar with the play they could make connections and understand what Dickens is trying to portray more clearly. Dickens ultimate message of the book is that it is better for one to be a good person than to be a high class gentleman. Being rich is not how you will find happiness.
“Julius Caesar.” The Literature Network. Jalic Inc. 2000-2009. 26 December 2009. http://www.online-literature.com/shakespeare/julius_caesar/10/.
Carnell, Ron. “William Collins.” Passions for Poetry. 1998-2006. 26 December 2009. http://www.netpoets.com/classic/biographies/017000.htm
Dickens makes a reference to Shakespeare's famous speech in his play, Julius Caesar. The above line “followed by Collins's Ode on the Passions” makes a reference to an English poet who lived from 1721- 1759. Dickens describes Mr. Wopsle's character by making allusions to Shakespeare and other famous poets highlighting Mr. Wopsle’s tendencies toward drama. Dickens may have referenced Julius Caesar because it shares common themes with Great Expectations. The themes of friendship and honor relate to both works. If one was familiar with the play they could make connections and understand what Dickens is trying to portray more clearly. Dickens ultimate message of the book is that it is better for one to be a good person than to be a high class gentleman. Being rich is not how you will find happiness.
“Julius Caesar.” The Literature Network. Jalic Inc. 2000-2009. 26 December 2009. http://www.online-literature.com/shakespeare/julius_caesar/10/.
Carnell, Ron. “William Collins.” Passions for Poetry. 1998-2006. 26 December 2009. http://www.netpoets.com/classic/biographies/017000.htm
6. Great Expectations (pg. 43)
6. Great Expectations (pg. 43): “Neither were my notions of the theological positions to which my Catechism bound me, at all accurate; for, I have a lively remembrance that I supposed my declaration that I was to “walk in the same all the days of my life,” laid me under an obligation always to go through the village from our house in one particular direction, and never to vary it by turning down by the wheelwright’s or up by the mill.”:
A Catechism is a book that contains the basic beliefs of the Church; in Dickens’ writing this would be the Anglican Church or the Church of England. Pip would have received religious instruction through the Catechism when he was young. Dickens references this book to illustrate how Pip takes his education from religious metaphors very literally and is unable to extend the lessons to practical life experience. Dickens also shows the dramatic changes in Pip’s character development from the beginning of the story to the end. Dickens shows the reader that Pip was naive and uneducated as a child. When Pip heads into his Expectations, religion plays less of a role in his life. Pip receives tutoring and becomes a gentleman, but he no longer makes references to religion as part of his education.
“The Catechism.” Anglicans Online. 15 April 2007. 23 December 2009. http://anglicansonline.org/basics/catechism.html.
"catechism." The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 23 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/catechism.
“The Church of England (the Anglican Church).” The Victorian Web. 17 March 2000. 23 December 2009. http://www.victorianweb.org/religion/denom1.html
A Catechism is a book that contains the basic beliefs of the Church; in Dickens’ writing this would be the Anglican Church or the Church of England. Pip would have received religious instruction through the Catechism when he was young. Dickens references this book to illustrate how Pip takes his education from religious metaphors very literally and is unable to extend the lessons to practical life experience. Dickens also shows the dramatic changes in Pip’s character development from the beginning of the story to the end. Dickens shows the reader that Pip was naive and uneducated as a child. When Pip heads into his Expectations, religion plays less of a role in his life. Pip receives tutoring and becomes a gentleman, but he no longer makes references to religion as part of his education.
“The Catechism.” Anglicans Online. 15 April 2007. 23 December 2009. http://anglicansonline.org/basics/catechism.html.
"catechism." The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2004. 23 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/catechism.
“The Church of England (the Anglican Church).” The Victorian Web. 17 March 2000. 23 December 2009. http://www.victorianweb.org/religion/denom1.html
5. Great Expectations: (pg.25)
5. Great Expectations: (pg.25): “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 the Third—and ended with the very proper aspiration that we might be truly grateful. Upon which my sister fixed me with her eye, and said, in a low reproachful voice, ‘Do you hear that? Be grateful.’”:
King Richard the Third was crowned King of England in 1483. Although Richard has been depicted as a ruthless and murderous King, historians dispute whether or not Richard was responsible for all of the deaths that have been attributed to him. William Shakespeare wrote a play based on Richard the Third; Shakespeare’s play shows Richard as a villain. When Dickens references King Richard the Third and Hamlet, he is most likely referencing the ruthless version of Richard (Shakespeare’s version). Both of these plays depict the downfall of the protagonist due to their greed or desire for revenge. It is ironic that it is Pip’s desire (greed) for a rise in class that leads him to overlook the good parts of his life such as his friendship with Joe. With this passage, Dickens is developing Wopsle’s character by showing his tendencies toward theatrics. This characteristic later leads him to London to pursue acting; it’s funny that Dickens gives Mr. Wopsle a role in Hamlet. Dicken’s writing aids in character development: Pip is longing; Mrs. Joe is bitter and forceful; Joe is kind; Mr. Wopsle is dramatic. Through character development, tone of the story is shown.
“Richard III.” Brittania. 2005. 23 December 2009. http://www.britannia.com/history/monarchs/mon39.html
“The Tragedy of King Richard the Third.” Absolute Shakespeare. 2000-2005. 23 December 2009. http://absoluteshakespeare.com/plays/richard_III/richard_III.htm.
King Richard the Third was crowned King of England in 1483. Although Richard has been depicted as a ruthless and murderous King, historians dispute whether or not Richard was responsible for all of the deaths that have been attributed to him. William Shakespeare wrote a play based on Richard the Third; Shakespeare’s play shows Richard as a villain. When Dickens references King Richard the Third and Hamlet, he is most likely referencing the ruthless version of Richard (Shakespeare’s version). Both of these plays depict the downfall of the protagonist due to their greed or desire for revenge. It is ironic that it is Pip’s desire (greed) for a rise in class that leads him to overlook the good parts of his life such as his friendship with Joe. With this passage, Dickens is developing Wopsle’s character by showing his tendencies toward theatrics. This characteristic later leads him to London to pursue acting; it’s funny that Dickens gives Mr. Wopsle a role in Hamlet. Dicken’s writing aids in character development: Pip is longing; Mrs. Joe is bitter and forceful; Joe is kind; Mr. Wopsle is dramatic. Through character development, tone of the story is shown.
“Richard III.” Brittania. 2005. 23 December 2009. http://www.britannia.com/history/monarchs/mon39.html
“The Tragedy of King Richard the Third.” Absolute Shakespeare. 2000-2005. 23 December 2009. http://absoluteshakespeare.com/plays/richard_III/richard_III.htm.
4. Great Expectations: (pg.22)
4. Great Expectations: (pg.22) “... secretly crossed his two forefingers, and exhibited them to me, as our token that Mrs. Joe was in a cross temper. This was so much her normal state, that Joe and I would often, for weeks together, be, as to our fingers, like monumental Crusaders as to their legs.”:
The Crusades were wars between those who believe in the Islam religion and those who believe in Christianity. Christians were trying to win over the Holy Lands or places that Jesus was born and traveled in during his lifetime which were controlled by Muslims. The wars took place over a 200 year period during the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. Statues and paintings of this time period often depict Crusaders with their legs crossed. The crossed legs represented the Cross; the cross is a symbol for followers of Jesus as Jesus was killed by being nailed to a cross. Dickens characterizes Joe and Pip to have a secret symbol to represent when Mrs. Joe is mad; Joe and Pip would cross their fingers. Dickens most likely chose this symbol to characterize that living with Mrs. Joe was like constantly being engaged in battle. Mrs. Joe felt called to battle with Pip to make sure that he was brought up to be properly appreciative and aware of the sacrifices she made for him. Also, Dickens is able to show us that Joe and Pip are tied to each other in the misery of facing Mrs. Joe. These words also characterize Mrs. Joe as someone that would be seen as unpleasant. She would be on the side fighting against the Crusaders.
“Art of the Crusades Era.” The Cultural Crusades: War and Cultural Exchange Between The Christian and Islamic Worlds. 8 December 1997. 23 December 2009. http://www.umich.edu/~marcons/Crusades/topics/art/art-article.html
"crusades." The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2005. 23 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/crusades.
Trueman, Chris. “The Crusades.” History Learning Site. 2000-2009. historylearningsite.co.uk. 23 December 2009. http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/cru1.htm.
The Crusades were wars between those who believe in the Islam religion and those who believe in Christianity. Christians were trying to win over the Holy Lands or places that Jesus was born and traveled in during his lifetime which were controlled by Muslims. The wars took place over a 200 year period during the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. Statues and paintings of this time period often depict Crusaders with their legs crossed. The crossed legs represented the Cross; the cross is a symbol for followers of Jesus as Jesus was killed by being nailed to a cross. Dickens characterizes Joe and Pip to have a secret symbol to represent when Mrs. Joe is mad; Joe and Pip would cross their fingers. Dickens most likely chose this symbol to characterize that living with Mrs. Joe was like constantly being engaged in battle. Mrs. Joe felt called to battle with Pip to make sure that he was brought up to be properly appreciative and aware of the sacrifices she made for him. Also, Dickens is able to show us that Joe and Pip are tied to each other in the misery of facing Mrs. Joe. These words also characterize Mrs. Joe as someone that would be seen as unpleasant. She would be on the side fighting against the Crusaders.
“Art of the Crusades Era.” The Cultural Crusades: War and Cultural Exchange Between The Christian and Islamic Worlds. 8 December 1997. 23 December 2009. http://www.umich.edu/~marcons/Crusades/topics/art/art-article.html
"crusades." The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, 2005. 23 December 2009. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/crusades.
Trueman, Chris. “The Crusades.” History Learning Site. 2000-2009. historylearningsite.co.uk. 23 December 2009. http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/cru1.htm.
3. Great Expectations: (pg. 14)
3. Great Expectations: (pg. 14): “ ‘Lord, bless the boy!’ exclaimed Mrs. Joe, as if she didn’t’ quite mean that, but rather the contrary. ‘From the Hulks.’”:
When the United States of America declared its independence from England, England lost their ability to send convicts to the United States to serve their sentences. They were also left with warships that were no longer necessary. In a creative response to having more ships than needed and more criminals than they could house, England recycled ships into prisons. They started using old naval vessels to house London's convicts. The idea was that convicts were less likely to escape if they had to swim their way to shore and to utilize space that was available to avoid overcrowding their jail systems even more. Dickens references Hulks and shows Pip’s curiosity, and his sister’s reaction shows some of her impatience with him.
“Great Expectations.” Discovering Dickens, A Community Reading Project. 2002. Stanford University.
http://dickens.stanford.edu/dickens/archive/great/great_issue1gloss.html
“Prison Hulks on the Thames River.” Portcities London. National Maritime Museum/ Royal Observatory Greenwich. http://www.portcities.org.uk/london/server/show/ConNarrative.56/chapterId/414/Prison-hulks-on-the-River-Thames.html.
When the United States of America declared its independence from England, England lost their ability to send convicts to the United States to serve their sentences. They were also left with warships that were no longer necessary. In a creative response to having more ships than needed and more criminals than they could house, England recycled ships into prisons. They started using old naval vessels to house London's convicts. The idea was that convicts were less likely to escape if they had to swim their way to shore and to utilize space that was available to avoid overcrowding their jail systems even more. Dickens references Hulks and shows Pip’s curiosity, and his sister’s reaction shows some of her impatience with him.
“Great Expectations.” Discovering Dickens, A Community Reading Project. 2002. Stanford University.
http://dickens.stanford.edu/dickens/archive/great/great_issue1gloss.html
“Prison Hulks on the Thames River.” Portcities London. National Maritime Museum/ Royal Observatory Greenwich. http://www.portcities.org.uk/london/server/show/ConNarrative.56/chapterId/414/Prison-hulks-on-the-River-Thames.html.
2. Great Expectations (pg. 8)
2. Great Expectations (pg. 8): “He was a mild, good-natured, sweet-tempered, easy-going, foolish, dear fellow—a sort of Hercules in strength, and also in weakness.”:
According to Greek mythology, Hercules was the son of the God, Zeus, and the woman, Alcmene; and he was known as the strongest man in the world. Though physically strong, Hercules suffered greatly throughout his lifetime. Dickens uses this comparison to show the reader that Joe has great strength both physically and mentally.
“The Life and Times of Hercules.” Hercules, Greece’s Greatest Hero. Perseus Digital Library Project. 2 September 2008. Tufts University. 23 December 2009. http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/Herakles/bio.html
According to Greek mythology, Hercules was the son of the God, Zeus, and the woman, Alcmene; and he was known as the strongest man in the world. Though physically strong, Hercules suffered greatly throughout his lifetime. Dickens uses this comparison to show the reader that Joe has great strength both physically and mentally.
“The Life and Times of Hercules.” Hercules, Greece’s Greatest Hero. Perseus Digital Library Project. 2 September 2008. Tufts University. 23 December 2009. http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/Herakles/bio.html
1. Great Expectations (pg.7)
1. Great Expectations (pg.7): “My sister, Mrs. Joe Gargery, was more than twenty years older than I, and had established a great reputation with herself and the neighbours because she had brought me up ‘by hand.’”:
Dickens references Pip's upbringing as "by hand".
The actual meaning of this is that Pip was bottle- fed as a baby and not nursed by his mother or someone else. As Pip was an orphan, he had to be brought up by hand. However, Dickens uses the phrase “by hand” in a more literal sense too; "by hand" meaning Mrs. Joe tended to be abusive. For an example, Dickens describes Mrs. Joe using her “tickler” to punish Pip when he behaved badly. Dickens creates a sense of the background and upbringing that Pip had, and the reader will be sympathetic for his character.
“Great Expectations.” Discovering Dickens, A Community Reading Project. 2002. Stanford University.
http://dickens.stanford.edu/dickens/archive/great/great_issue1gloss.html
Dickens references Pip's upbringing as "by hand".
The actual meaning of this is that Pip was bottle- fed as a baby and not nursed by his mother or someone else. As Pip was an orphan, he had to be brought up by hand. However, Dickens uses the phrase “by hand” in a more literal sense too; "by hand" meaning Mrs. Joe tended to be abusive. For an example, Dickens describes Mrs. Joe using her “tickler” to punish Pip when he behaved badly. Dickens creates a sense of the background and upbringing that Pip had, and the reader will be sympathetic for his character.
“Great Expectations.” Discovering Dickens, A Community Reading Project. 2002. Stanford University.
http://dickens.stanford.edu/dickens/archive/great/great_issue1gloss.html
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