Creator
In my opinion, even though the Bible allows slavery to base on economic status and to allow it to happen. The key issue is that slavery in the Bible is not based on race and slavery in Bible time differs from slavery practiced in the past few centuries in many parts of the world
slave
Slavery makes people become ruthless. Many colored people are slaves due to their race. many slave owners actually believed that colored people were lesser human beings.
I was much astonished and shocked at this contrivance, which I afterwards learned was called the iron muzzle.
it is a very scary scene in my opinion because it sounds very cruel to treat the nations like that. If the author is shocked then I would probably feel the same thing too
I stayed in this island for a few days
it looks like he had been traded around the world and now he stopped at an island and being alone by himself
I asked them if we were not to be eaten by those white men with horrible looks, red faces, and loose hair. They told me I was not
Equiano refers to whites as cruel, greedy, and mean-hearted.
All are taught the use of these weapons; even our women are warriors, and march boldly out to fight along with the men. Our whole district is a kind of militia
The Igbo women utilized weapons and participated in battle
one Creator of all things
everyone in his hometown does believes that God is the Creator of all things
the parents of the bridegroom present gifts to those of the bride
the bride has a higher standard in her marriage compare to the groom's side
dancing
an important part and essential in all ceremonies
Eboe” region.
Eboe have well-established rules and governing laws. Their marriage system and laws are strictly enforced
Equiano begins by describing the community he grew up in in the Igbo,
Equiano tells about his homeland, the horrors and cruelty he endured during his time as a captive
Olaudah Equiano: The Interesting Narrative of the Life
The book describes Equiano's time in bondage, and documents his efforts to become an independent through Bible study, and his ultimate success in acquiring free your own and do business after that
Oroonoko decides to kill Imoinda
A secret love affair between her and Oroonoko is soon discovered, leading the king to sell Imoinda into slavery, while convincing his nephew that he killed her.
Aphra Behn
If her talent was undeniable, one should also not overcome the courage it took Behn to pursue his career. While she was not the only woman to write at the time, all the others were nobles rather unwilling to be paid for their efforts.
a loss that Behn laments in Oroonoko
Oroonoko becomes a unique work - not just a novel, it is a powerful testament to the horrors of slavery; it was an anti-Dutch political limit; that is the livelihood of the first professional female writer in England; and finally, a subtle case against the inability of women in society.
the first humanitarian novel in English
provide the plot and language for this popular novel about a proud, pious African prince who was enslaved and cruelly treated by "civilized" white Christians
Gulliver’s Travels, written in 1726 by Jonathan Swift
Jonathan Swift maximizes the humorous, fighting-rich, bizarre and magical elements, his work is created with a rich imagination. The fantasy and the reality are closely related to each other: The fantasy world in the story always brings us back to the British social situation in the time of the author.
Lilliputians who argue over the importance of a low or high heeled shoe.
The country of Lilliputian at that time was in a fierce conflict between the "high heeled shoe" and the "low heeled shoe" for the simple reason that they wore different high heels. It is more remarkable that the king is inclined to the "low heeled shoe" side while the Prince tends to lean towards "high heeled shoe"
The Antelope is felled by the sea and Gulliver swims to the nearest shore where he falls asleep in the grass. He awakens to discover he is completely bound, held captive by a group of tiny people called the Lilliputians.
Unfortunately, in the middle of the track met a storm and was sunk, the whole boat died, only Gulliver escaped and was able to swim into the coast of Lilliputians' shore, the land of the little people.
Lemuel Gulliver, First a Surgeon, and then a Captain of Several Ships
The main character, who works as a surgeon, is interested in traveling so he applies to work in a merchant ship
the Brobdingnagians; whose wise maxims in morality and government it would be our happiness to observe.
It is as if he disparages the Brobdingnag "ignorant", "short-sighted", but the truth is the praise for the benevolence, the honesty of the giants.
Lilliputians. They take care of his needs but refuse to grant him freedom
The author sarcasmically, to criticize the bad habits of the Lilliputian court. At times it seems that he defended and praised England, but the truth was that he was deeply sarcastic and critical.
as an allegorical tale of fantastic creatures or as a deeper political commentary on the darker side of human nature.
this is the battle book. It went against rulers who were wicked, cruel feudal and bourgeoisie, opposed unjust socialism, praised tolerance, generosity, and humanitarianism. But all of the author's dreams are just fantasies in the virtual world, so he easily comes to pessimism and boredom.
a satire
Gulliver's Travels combines adventure with barbaric satire, mocking British customs and the politics of the time
praises Queen Anne of Denmark for her beauty, and royal virtues, while also making about her enduring humility in spite of her obvious talents and social status
From having to take on the role of "domestic" within the family framework, today women are also known as an extrovert in social responsibilities, a career no longer only for men. They have to assert their values, abilities by career and their own rise. More than that, they affirm their position. The woman still retains her industrious creative beauty. All the inherent qualities help them to be more successful in life and have a strong place in society
To write your worth, which no pen can expresse,
It is a beautiful line. In addition, today, although not all prejudices, doubts, even stigmas, women, in terms of quantity and quality of contributions, have preserved and promoted their role in promoting practice. social development in all essential fields.
It was the first book of original poetry published by a woman in England
Achievements that revolutionize culture and customs, largely changing the perception of women from all walks of life, have been affirmed with quality and competence in all fields of activity, including most non-traditional field
It is a rallying cry for women, urging them to reflect on their own worth and to question their place in society
Throughout the process of formation and development, women always have the right and a certain contribution to all changes in society for the sake of peace, unity and human civilization. The woman's position and position develop equally and steadily with all classes of men.
poems gave readers an insight into the mind of a brilliant woman of her time, making an eloquent defense of all women
The old woman and the woman today, however, differ in social status. In the past when they were looked down upon, in modern times, their merits are as seen again, modern women seem much more active. However, we still realize that they have in common that is the suffering and riches of good qualities needed by a woman.
The Tempest is commonly classified as a comedy, some scholars and critics are now arguing that this play could be classified as a romance due to the eventual marriage of Ferdinand and Miranda
they rely on comedy through language, intricate love conspiracy, and confused identities. However, even though "The Tempest" has many such traits, it is quite a unique play in the comedy genre.
On a ship at sea; a tempestuous noise of thunder and lightning heard.
The play opens with a giant magical storm capable of sinking the main cast, and the survivors are magically distributed across the island.
God forbade it, indeed; but Faustus hath done it: for vain pleasure of twenty-four years hath Faustus lost eternal joy and felicity.
he truly reflects the history of the whole humanity in its quest for truth and endeavors to change the world towards an all-encompassing life, presenting a human history with struggles competition between good and evil
Doctor Faustus wants all the power and if he thinks he has it he will be happy and do all these great things for society
in the story of a person who sells his soul to the devil to satisfy his thirst for knowledge and dreams, he has a humane nature and always strives to rise constantly in conquering all dark forces that haunted in society
Faustus spends the next 24 years using his powers to impress others, never using his power for anything truly meaningful.
in science, he does not grasp and explain the nature of things in particular and of the universe in general. As a human being, he did not enjoy the life he was given by God. He thinks that human science is powerless against the world of mysterious
Hell calls for right, and with a roaring voice
the author's vivid depictions of hell and the fearful mood of his ruthless hero as well as how he creates barbarism disgust but hatred
Doctor Faustus
Faustus was the figure that today recognizes its minds and soul, and character in self-awareness and identity crisis, continues to appeal to writers over centuries
I fear he is fallen into that damned art for which they two are infamous through the world.
Contemporary humanities scholars mocked his magical feats as petty and deceitful
“Abjure this magic, turn to God again!”
One of the core issues of the human world that has evolved forever, the role of science in history or the inevitable bond between power and science has been views differently
Faustus seeks the truths of the universe but remains blinded by his own belief that he is destined to inevitable damnation.
Faustus entrusts himself to the devil, leaving him to thrust into a series of emotional adventures and sensual pleasures, even crime.
necromancy
the folklore leave a confusing legend of magic and alchemy, astrology and divination, research into theology, demons and necromancy
The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus is derived from the German folktale Faust
hero of one of the oldest legends in Western literature and folklore, the story of a German astrologer or wizard selling his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge and power
It engages the reader and makes them reflect upon life—personifying some of the most important and recurring qualities and characteristics we embody on our journey.
The religious message is clearly very simple that earthly comforts are ephemeral. Only good deeds and God's grace can bring salvation
Knowledge. Everyman, I will go with thee, and be thy guide, In thy most need to go by thy side.
Here is another friendly character who will give good advice to the main character. "Knowledge" serves as an important guide for Everyman, guiding him in this search for another character: Confession
Where art thou, my Goods and riches?
"Goods" plays an important role which represents the material wealth and rich
Death. Almighty God, I am here at your will, Your commandment to fulfil.
it looks like "Death" is an appropriate person who will teach a life lesson to "Everyman"
Good Deeds
The lessons in transition are taught by allegorical figures, each representing an abstract concept such as Good Deeds, material possessions and knowledge
Everyman
everyman lived for his own joy, forgetting the importance of charity and the potential threat of eternal hell
God is bothered by the way mankind has been living their lives
the main complaint of God is that ignorant people lead a sinful life, not knowing that Jesus died for their sins
This play is driven by a heavy-handed use of allegory to dramatize the personified characters
The whole script has gained a strong sense of realism from medieval scriptures. This short drama is better than fables because it creates a good features in building the characters
A main theme throughout is the struggle between good and evil and the universality of the human experience in the material world.
it achieves a beautiful thoughtfulness, simplicity in hypothetical handling of the subject of death and the destiny of the human soul
Then go you with your reckoning and your Good-Deeds together For to make you joyful at heart Before the blessed Trinity.
The play speaks of an important message: When death comes, there is only one thing left to be significant, and that is the good deeds we did while we were still alive.
how should a person best use his time on earth
I really like this question. It make me think of that anyone who has passed the youth finds that it is the best time of his/her life. But there are also some people who regretted doing nothing useful for themselves and letting time pass in vain.
The three men urge the old man to tell where to find Death
They were very united to avenge the Death but greed and selfishness made all three have a tragic ending
The three men find Death
it is ironic the three men find Death because of their greediness. Three men killed themselves and find "Death " in both literally meaning and figurative meaning
Into the town, to an apothecary,
the guy who went to the grocery store plan to buy poison to kill two of his friends to monopolize the treasure
Shall run to town at once, and to the mart, And fetch us bread and wine here, privately. And two of us shall guard, right cunningly,
The two guys sent another man to the grocery store so that they could plan to share more treasure
The three men decide to stop and kill Death
Perhaps these three people thought too superficially and while drunk, they decided to kill the Death- it is impossible.
He was, by gad, an old comrade of yours; And he was slain, all suddenly, last night, When drunk, as he sat on his bench upright;
the rioters heard about the man in the coffin who died face up and drunk
Till Christ redeemed us with His blood again!
because of human sins and wickedness, men want God to save them again
blood
because of human sins and wickedness, men want God to save them again
Riot and gambling, brothels and taverns
this area has all of the society's vices
‘Radix malorum est cupiditas.’
He seemed to repeat the phrase many times in his story. He might try to emphasize he is a good person. And the phrase mean the root of evil is desire
The Pardoner consistently preaches that “Greed is the root of all evil” while selling indulgences, or pardons of sin, and keeping the money for himself.
It is ironic when Pardoner is a greedy person but preach on "Greed is the root of all evil"
He admits his hypocrisy
it might mean the disguised men when helping someone, they all want to have a good reputation, want to be associated with someone who asks them or have to exchange for a favor
Greed is the root of all evil
In my opinion, human greed only appears when the side " wants to have" is higher than the side of " response", or it is lower than the side of "worthiness"; that is when natural balance is broken
I’ll grant you life if you can tell to me What thing it is that women most desire. Be wise, and keep your neck from iron dire! And if you cannot tell it me anon, Then will I give you license to be gone 915 A twelvemonth and a day, to search and learn
The queen told him she would spare him the death penalty if within a year and a day he discovered what women wanted most. And so he begins his mission
That women cannot keep vow of marriage
She talked about many books of the time, which described women as manipulators and described marriage was especially dangerous for men who wanted to be scholars.
Then he got up as does a wild lion, And with his fist he struck me on the head,
In addition, she also embraced the fact that violence against women is common and considered acceptable. One of her husbands hit her so hard that she was deaf in one ear.
I with my fist so took him on the cheek
She didn't accept violence as just a man's privilege, and so she hit him (in the cheek). Nor is she the ideal medieval role model of a married woman, as she has no children.
A woman wise will strive continually To get herself loved, when she’s not, you see. But since I had them wholly in my hand, And since to me they’d given all their land,
During her marriages, she describes how she can also have some control, though men are said to dominate, through her wits. She also asserted that in marriage, equality is needed and said that everyone should amenable to each other
her adept appeal to the Scriptures puts her in direct conflict with the teachings of clerics
she wouldn't want to be a virgin - one of the archetypes of ideal femininity taught by her culture and the church of that time.
As a widow five times over, she would have been seen as a “loathly lady”–a woman who remarries in order to satisfy her sexual desires
She is sexually experienced and advocates women having more than one sexual partner. She thinks sex as a positive experience
she has inherited her husbands’ wealth
My question is how does she evaluate the role of control in marriage and how much control should a woman hold?
she has been married five times
in my opinion, she is a negative visual depiction of women in terms of the times.
The story provides insight on women’s roles in the Late Middle Ages when they could occupy only three stations in society: maiden, widow or wife.
Of all the narrators in Geoffrey Chaucer's " The Canterbury Tales", The Wife of Bath was often identified as a feminist.
At Thebes, in his own country, as I said, Upon a night, while sleeping in his bed, He dreamed of how the winged God Mercury Before him stood and bade him happier be. His sleep-bestowing wand he bore upright;
The Canterbury Tales includes stories about pagan Gods. There fore, the Knight talks about Mercury appearing to Arcite in a dream, advising him to return to Athens
And on the other hand, this Palamon, When that he found Arcita truly gone, Such lamentation made he, that the tower 420 Resounded of his crying, hour by hour. The very fetters on his legs were yet Again with all his bitter salt tears wet
At the same time, Palamon was jealous of Arista, who was released and can now find happiness.
Then had I been in bliss and not in woe. Only the sight of her that I would serve,
The freed Arcite was forced, cursing fate to separate from Emelye, to flee to Thebes.
Duke Theseus released him out of shade, Freely to go where’er he wished, and go
When Pirithous knew that his friend was languishing in prison, the commander began to request Theseus to release Arcite. Theseus agreed, but ordered Arcite to never appear again in Athens
Pirithous loved Arcita, too, that knight
Pirithous is bound by ties of friendship with the captive Arcite
A worthy duke men called Pirithous
The famous commander Pirithous, a longtime friend of Theseus, had come to Athens to visit
Palamon claims Emily to be his lady and love
because of this reason then a fight broke out between them, but realizing that they were still locked up, the warriors calmed down.
“The virgin beauty slays me suddenly Of her that wanders yonder in that place; And save I have her pity and her grace, That I at least may see her day by day, I am as good as dead; there’s no more to say.”
Emelye has a pure beauty and warmth hearted. Both knights are infatuated by her gesture and her action
Venus
Venus represents art, poetry, painting, drama, music, culture, aesthetics, color, possession, partner, beauty, charm, attractiveness, emotion, harmony
Emily
the sister of Hippolyta
He cast his eyes upon Emilia,
So many years have gone, when Emilia was walking not far from the tower, where the prisoners were imprisoned. Palamon and Arcite saw her, and the two knights fell in love with Emelye
And of those two Arcita was the one, The other knight was known as Palamon.
Theseus defeated Creon and captured the noble knights Palamon and Arcite
Creon and won Thebes
When Theseus returned home, he became aware of Creon's attack on Thebes. Deciding to take revenge, he immediately went to the battlefield, leaving Hippolyta and his sister Emelye in Athens
Hippolyta,
Athens was ruled by Theseus. He captured Scythia, the land of the Amazons and married their leader Hippolyta.
Bertilak de Hautdesert I am in this land, through might of Morgan la Faye, that dwells in my house, and is mistress of magic, by crafts well learned the mysteries of Merlin, many has she taken, for she has dealt in depths full dearly sometime with that excellent sage, and that know all your knights at home.
Bertilak explained that this was just a game played by Morgan la Faye to test Arthur's knights and frighten Guinevere. While Gawain is ashamed of his cowardice, Bertilak hails him as the bravest and honest knight
I am the weakest, I know, and of wit feeblest. least worth the loss of my life, who’d learn the truth
the line shows how Sir Gawain earned his reputation. Even though he is highly qualified to take part in the Green Knight's challenge in place of Arthur, Gawain states that he is not worthy of such an accord
The knight made yet good cheer
Based on his word, Gawain is cheerful and courageous. However, a contrary effect might be felt by the reader that he acts in this way to help those remaining in the court be safe and feel better
nephew to King Arthur
Sir Gawain is a knight and the nephew to King Arthur
Arthurian tale: sex, battle, knighthood, mythical creatures, feasts and tests of courage
The poem "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight" opens with an interesting mythological account of Britain's foundation.
takes his courteous leave of lords and ladies;
he believes that he will be one forever
Why should I falter? Such destinies foul or fair what can men do but suffer?
the line explains how after a year of anticipation, Garwain was finally ready to leave and seek the knight
his body was strong, both his belly and waist were worthily small, and his features all followed his form made and clean.
the lines, which are some of his first words in the story indicate he is a good looking man and also indicate his respectable skills as a knight
Gawain is still considered one of the great heroes of Arthurian legend
His high ranking makes him eligible for many keys. The stanzas provide information on the intentions of the author and role of characters such as the knights
Langobard in Lombardy lifts up homes
After the fall of Troy, as expressed in the poem, heroes left to start rebuilding new cities
this adventurous and saucy romance seeks to answer the question of what it means to be chivalrous in the middle ages
the author is precise in his attention to detail and explanation of different historical perspectives.
first female French poet, Marie de France.
not all men can write, woman can still have their enthusiasm of writing poetry and explore their experience by creating the topic that talk about love, loyalty theme mainly
Praise be to God, for now am I healed. Fair friend, by my faith thou art my very son, for whom I came forth from my own land, and have sought through all this realm.”
God is still with you, He will heal your pain and trust Him, He will continue to lead the way for everyone
Mont St. Michel.
is a tidal island and mainland commune in Normandy, France. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mont-Saint-Michel
When the lady heard of her lover’s purpose, she thanked him for his courtesy, for greatly was his counsel to her mind.
She believed that he will bring back her son and she admire for what he has been thinking which is as same as her feeling
In wrath and anger he purposed to fight, to beat his adversary from the saddle, and bring him at last to shame
it looks like there is a fierce battle took place
This letter he sent by the swan, commending the bird to her care.
The most thrilling significance is the way in which Marie paints the swan as a symbol of their love. The love is an additional symbol for the many loves and changes that have run through the court lays
So fearful am I, lest you do aught to your loss, that I may not find any comfort. Very quickly shall I die for reason of my dread. Tell me now, where you go, and on what business!
This quote also helps in understanding the themes of loyalty. She starved for affections and love and this makes it harder for effective interpersonal relationship to be created.
her lord was absent from her side. She knew not where he went, nor on what errand.
Marie is far away from Arthur and this explains why she ignores intimacies with the lords
Romances of Marie de France
a poetic collection of twelve narratives written in the early 21st century
Marie’s lays are mainly romances that emphasized chivalry and nobility in its main characters
The development of the plot through focusing on key themes such as selflessness, fate, loyalty, and love has been well coordinated to create the relationship between the knights and their role in the society.
Love put words in his mouth, and courage in his heart, so that his hope might be made plain.
It indicates that for women, love has been more of a requirement than an emotional feeling
Many there be who make of Love a gibe and a jest, and with specious words defame him by boastful tales.
A relationship is built on trust and commitment and understanding the role of each other in the society
Love is a privy wound within the heart, and none knoweth of that bitterness but the heart alone.
The lines shows that love alone is not enough to sustain a relationship
The ring-sword radiant rang ’mid the armor 5 As the party was approaching the palace together In warlike equipments.
Many of lines that introduce Beowulf to the reader have been devoted to describing the team's armor and weapons. Beowulf presented in the post does not pay attention to the depicting scenes, although it is worth noting that the weapon receives the author's special attention throughout the poem
Hrothgar
In the first verse, I believe the author introduces to the readers to the great kings of antiquity that ruled over the glorious Danes- the powerful king Hrothgar, under the leadership of the kingdom, flourished and prospered. Hrothgar built a large banquet hall, and for days in a row, the Danish warriors happily celebrated
Beowulf
Beowulf fulfills the needs of a medieval banquet which includes stories of courage, bravery and mighty battles in which all evil is still defeated. Beowulf focuses on battels with mythical creatures with supernatural powers and also honoring the strength of the main character.
Had God not defended me. I failed in the battle Aught to accomplish, aided by Hrunting,
Beowulf blamed on God that cause him to fail in the battle and he had to use the Hrunting sword to bring back the victory
And the hilted hand-sword was Hrunting entitled, Old and most excellent ’mong all of the treasures
The Hrunting sword is said to be invincible, bearing intense patterned lines
And the ancient heirloom Unferth permit thou, The famed one to have, the heavy-sword splendid The hard-edgèd weapon; with Hrunting to aid me, I shall gain me glory, or grim-death shall take me.”
Unferth, the warrior taunt Beowulf is now surrendered and offers him the Hrunting sword
The Lord had allowed him, save life and retainers
Was "Beowulf" written close to the flourishing Christian era?
Whom God-Father
the poem contains many pagan and folk elements
thanemen
this word means servant, entourage- it is often used to refer to the retainers of the aristocracy of the king, or the aristocracy of the Anglo-Saxon. I am thinking in this poem, the word "thane" means as a servant to fit the context
Teutonic
also known as Germanic language, is a group of languages in the Indo-European language family. This group includes the languages spoken by the Germans who lived on the northeast border of the Roman Empire
Source: https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Teutonic+language
personal destiny/fate
In my opinion, God creates men and men will use that body and knowledge to build his personal destiny, but in this sentence, I think a man's fate will be arranged from his Highest.
God will change things.
God knows that human are suffering with lives but he will help you get through it easily unexpectedly. Even though, human betray God, but the generosity from him will bring us together again if we believe in him.
He states that in the afterlife, happiness is determined by God himself.
I have the same opinion with an man that I do believe in God -he leads the way to happiness and the only Lord that can conquer our souls and spirit
he starts to recall the hard times, old friends, and the old way life used to be
he has been through the hard time but all of that is a beautiful memory that he always remember. The warrior can see it as an experience to be able to find him a new path to the new future. It is also elevate his motivation to reach to the higher position with his new lord
“Exeter Book Elegies”–are a series of first-person secular poems on the subjects of longing and loss.
I would love to read about the topics like this because it makes me feel that people always have great desires but they do not know in order to receive, they have to be able to give an exchange