The prompt I will be choosing to examine throughout this post will be: "It is okay for the government to mislead in order to promote security."
I decided to choose the corner of 'Disagree' and there are a variety of different reasons that played a role in my decision.
Firstly, I strongly believe that any sort of regime or government must stay truthful to its people no matter what the situation is. For example: if you're country was in danger of being attacked by another country, you would want to know and be informed that it would be happening in order to take necessary precautions and preparations. I believe it would be ethically incorrect from a government to mislead its very own people.
Considering the government did in fact mislead its people, the results they really wanted would only be temporary. The consequences of misleading may be extremely destroying and negative in my opinion. Expanding on my previous example: If the country and people were in fact attacked, people would most definitely be questioning why they weren't informed about this event that would be coming, which would then raise questioning and doubts. People would doubt there government and there will be a lack of trust between them, which in the extreme cases could possibly lead to revolution or strikes.
The reason I disagreed with this statement, but not completely disagree was because I thought that there might be some extreme and rare situations where a government would need to basically lie in order to ensure the security of their people.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Media Bias: Palestinian victim
The Israeli government has returned the body of a Palestinian man who hurt a border officer. A mass Palestinian funeral is expected. The body of the man was returned with some organs missing, and Palestinian officials are looking more into that.
The body of Ibrahim Safaqi was returned to Palestinians after he was shot when he injured an Israeli police officer with his car near the borders in Halhul.
The return of the mans body was not given back to where it belongs and the Palestinians immediately, and Israel delayed the return of the body. The official laws were not followed as the return was delayed with missing organs, which has raised speculation that they have been cutting off some of his organs in the time being, as the body that has been returned had missing organs.
Palestinian officials also claim that this is not the first time this has happened, and there were many similar cases that have been happening before. It has been believed that occupied forces have harvested organs from the Palestinian victims.
Israelis returned the body of the victim under the condition that they would deny the palestinians from throwing and organizing a mass funeral for the victim.
However the Palestinians obviously view that as being unfair and will organize a mass funeral for the victim very soon.
Hebron in the last two weeks has been a major site of public campaign urging the return of many Palestinian bodies, that have yet to be returned.
The body of Ibrahim Safaqi was returned to Palestinians after he was shot when he injured an Israeli police officer with his car near the borders in Halhul.
The return of the mans body was not given back to where it belongs and the Palestinians immediately, and Israel delayed the return of the body. The official laws were not followed as the return was delayed with missing organs, which has raised speculation that they have been cutting off some of his organs in the time being, as the body that has been returned had missing organs.
Palestinian officials also claim that this is not the first time this has happened, and there were many similar cases that have been happening before. It has been believed that occupied forces have harvested organs from the Palestinian victims.
Israelis returned the body of the victim under the condition that they would deny the palestinians from throwing and organizing a mass funeral for the victim.
However the Palestinians obviously view that as being unfair and will organize a mass funeral for the victim very soon.
Hebron in the last two weeks has been a major site of public campaign urging the return of many Palestinian bodies, that have yet to be returned.
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Sunday, September 27, 2015
This is Water - Analysis
The essay titled 'This is water' was written by David Foster Wallace. The essay was presented as a speech towards university graduates as well. The general purpose and idea of this essay is to try and make the audience more aware and appreciative of the things that surround them, as well as to empathize more with people we see in our daily lives, since they could be going through what we are. David Foster Wallace continuously encourages his intended audience to get the most out of life.
In his brief essay 'This is water', the author implements and uses more realistic examples throughout the text in order for the text to be more engaging towards the audience, as well as have a connection between his personal self and the audience. In the very beginning of his essay, David Foster Wallace tells a story about three fish. At that point this story has no meaning and has no value what so ever to the audience. However, the author was trying to show the audience how people act and think in this world, in a creative way. He then goes on to develop his main thesis by describing people as to being ignorant and unconscious at most times.
As his essay goes on, the author continues to highlight the fact that us humans are not conscious about the very basic, but important things in life. The author also touches on how although us humans are at times aware, and thinking of what is going on in our surroundings, we are still unable to analyze and reflect on the situation; which is very true indeed. He also describes the human as to being the centerpiece. What he means by that is that the human is always in the centre of attention and ignoring the reality, and what goes on around them. In other words, all they care about is themselves and are unaware.
"How can literature develop empathy and emotional intelligence?"
This question is much more obvious after the reading of the essay. Literature is able to develop empathy since the text uses some relatable and real life examples anyone can directly relate to, therefore having a bigger impact on the audience. It can develop emotional intelligence mainly that we can at least become more aware of what is around us and our surroundings; as well as also being able to connect and engage with many other peoples' situations they face that are similar to ours.
In his brief essay 'This is water', the author implements and uses more realistic examples throughout the text in order for the text to be more engaging towards the audience, as well as have a connection between his personal self and the audience. In the very beginning of his essay, David Foster Wallace tells a story about three fish. At that point this story has no meaning and has no value what so ever to the audience. However, the author was trying to show the audience how people act and think in this world, in a creative way. He then goes on to develop his main thesis by describing people as to being ignorant and unconscious at most times.
As his essay goes on, the author continues to highlight the fact that us humans are not conscious about the very basic, but important things in life. The author also touches on how although us humans are at times aware, and thinking of what is going on in our surroundings, we are still unable to analyze and reflect on the situation; which is very true indeed. He also describes the human as to being the centerpiece. What he means by that is that the human is always in the centre of attention and ignoring the reality, and what goes on around them. In other words, all they care about is themselves and are unaware.
"How can literature develop empathy and emotional intelligence?"
This question is much more obvious after the reading of the essay. Literature is able to develop empathy since the text uses some relatable and real life examples anyone can directly relate to, therefore having a bigger impact on the audience. It can develop emotional intelligence mainly that we can at least become more aware of what is around us and our surroundings; as well as also being able to connect and engage with many other peoples' situations they face that are similar to ours.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Munro Literature Reflection
What is the benefit and purpose of the study of literature?
Literature is known as, and can also be defined as writings in which expressions and form, in connection with ideas of permanent and universal interest, are characteristic or essential features, as poetry, novels, history, biography, and essays. Literature can help us understand and make perfect sense of the world around us. Through literature, we are allowed to explore the human condition, and also analyze why and how people feel a specific type of emotion and act like they do. Literature enables us to develop our minds analytically and helps in making a person open minded. We see the world through different perspectives of different writers that may come from different cultures. It can also help us to deal with what is happening around us, and how to act. Without the study of literature, us humans would lack insight and understanding of the human nature. Thats why everyone should study literature.
What is Women's literature, and what is the value of studying it?
Women's literature can sometimes be known as Women's fiction or Women's lives relationship. Women's literature usually explores women's lives, the dynamics of relationship with the family, friends, and lovers, that may end happily, though not always. It also examines many issues women could face at work or even at home. Womens literature is usually written by a women to a female audience. They will deal with the problems and solutions by providing the reader a glimpse into how someone can deal with these situations they themselves are facing.
Why were themes and values of Munro's social realism so significant during the 1950s-1980s? How has her work contributed to gender equality?
Munro's themes and values of social realism were extremely significant during the 1950's to 1980s due to the fact that there were many active movements towards gender equality all over the globe in that period in time; Specifically, in France, the united states, and the united kingdom. Many of Munro's writings are aimed at the women audience which at many times supports them in their daily lives.
What do you enjoy most about Munro's work, and how has it impacted you?
I realized and enjoyed that in many of munros short stories, she is not necessarily focused on the main character/protagonist of the story and the specific conflict of the story at all times. In fact, as the readers, we get to see much of the other characters and know a lot of background information about them. Many of Alice Munros short stories seem to have a small life lesson or a morale at the end, which is pretty good, and would make the reader want to read more of her writings.
Literature is known as, and can also be defined as writings in which expressions and form, in connection with ideas of permanent and universal interest, are characteristic or essential features, as poetry, novels, history, biography, and essays. Literature can help us understand and make perfect sense of the world around us. Through literature, we are allowed to explore the human condition, and also analyze why and how people feel a specific type of emotion and act like they do. Literature enables us to develop our minds analytically and helps in making a person open minded. We see the world through different perspectives of different writers that may come from different cultures. It can also help us to deal with what is happening around us, and how to act. Without the study of literature, us humans would lack insight and understanding of the human nature. Thats why everyone should study literature.
What is Women's literature, and what is the value of studying it?
Women's literature can sometimes be known as Women's fiction or Women's lives relationship. Women's literature usually explores women's lives, the dynamics of relationship with the family, friends, and lovers, that may end happily, though not always. It also examines many issues women could face at work or even at home. Womens literature is usually written by a women to a female audience. They will deal with the problems and solutions by providing the reader a glimpse into how someone can deal with these situations they themselves are facing.
Why were themes and values of Munro's social realism so significant during the 1950s-1980s? How has her work contributed to gender equality?
Munro's themes and values of social realism were extremely significant during the 1950's to 1980s due to the fact that there were many active movements towards gender equality all over the globe in that period in time; Specifically, in France, the united states, and the united kingdom. Many of Munro's writings are aimed at the women audience which at many times supports them in their daily lives.
What do you enjoy most about Munro's work, and how has it impacted you?
I realized and enjoyed that in many of munros short stories, she is not necessarily focused on the main character/protagonist of the story and the specific conflict of the story at all times. In fact, as the readers, we get to see much of the other characters and know a lot of background information about them. Many of Alice Munros short stories seem to have a small life lesson or a morale at the end, which is pretty good, and would make the reader want to read more of her writings.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Song Commentary
Throughout the song of Radioactive- Imagine Dragons; the singer continuously hints about his extreme battle with anxiety and depression that he faces in his life. He then goes on to speak about how this world has transformed in to such a different place, where nobody can be trusted these days, and that we are about to face some big events that are coming up
In verse one, line 1 "I'm waking up to ash and dust."In this line the narrator is describing the end of the world, since this song was released in 2012, which was the year many people feared would be the end. And shortly after those fear were put to bed, came the North Korean nuclear threats, which many people feared as well. Both of these main events give credibility to the idea that it was the end of the civilized world we lived in. But since the line sounds more depressing rather than predicting, as well as the fact that he uses 'waking' rather than 'will wake up to', this refers to the world we are living in right now also and not only the future. As we know of course there are loads of political and economic issues our world faces today, that could be dangerous to the planet.
Verse one, line 2: "I wipe my brow and I sweat my rust." As we can tell, the singer is using some sort of metaphor here since he says that humans sweat rust. As we know humans do not sweat rust, and by using this metaphor in the song, he is implying that humans are brainwashed and controlled these days like they are just like robots.
Verse one, line 3: "I'm breathing in the chemicals." This line in the song could have two meanings; firstly, the singer could be referring to an aftermath of any nuclear disaster that has happened or more likely that is about to happen. However, this line could also refer to smoking, since cigarettes and any other smoking material includes the process of breathing in chemicals. Additionally, in the music video of this song, right immediately after this line, we can see a man smoking. So again, this line could have a double meaning.
Verse one, line 6: "This is it, the apocalypse, whoa." In this line, the singer does not mean literally the apocalypse itself. He uses the powerful word 'apocalypse' to describe a dramatic change in either an individual or a government that he is currently witnessing, or about to witness.
Verse one, lines 7,8: "I'm waking up, I feel it in my bones. Enough to make my systems blow." Again, similar to the lines we witnessed before, the singer is using some extremely powerful words to indirectly get his point across, just like he used 'apocalypse' previously to describe drastic change. However here he says "I'm waking up." He's trying to say basically that he has finally come to realization of what is happening around him, and that he's ready to change. Similarly, like when he compared humans to robots previously; here he says he has a system. What the singer is trying to get across in those lines is that he has finally come to realization to kind of find the solution, and he believes that this solution is enough to make his system blow.
Verse one, lines 9,10: "Welcome to the new age, to the new age." Here we can tell that things have changed in the song for the singer, in a positive way. Those lines also may have many meanings, and the 'new age' can be referred to as different things. It could just be a new start for the writer himself and his personal life; or the writer could be referring to the new nuclear age we live in.
Verse one, lines 11,12: "Whoa, whoa, I'm radioactive, radioactive. Here the writer is trying to explain that he is unstoppable by using a metaphor by saying that he is radioactive.
Verse two, line 6: "This is it, the apocalypse." The singer ends this song with some strong words by saying that it is the apocalypse. This can't be a good sign, and that we are heading to the inevitable truth.
In conclusion, This song is an extremely meaningful song, that can be taken in many different views, and can be taken quite literally or metaphorically. The Singer uses metaphor for almost every line, and not only metaphor but some powerful ones too.
In verse one, line 1 "I'm waking up to ash and dust."In this line the narrator is describing the end of the world, since this song was released in 2012, which was the year many people feared would be the end. And shortly after those fear were put to bed, came the North Korean nuclear threats, which many people feared as well. Both of these main events give credibility to the idea that it was the end of the civilized world we lived in. But since the line sounds more depressing rather than predicting, as well as the fact that he uses 'waking' rather than 'will wake up to', this refers to the world we are living in right now also and not only the future. As we know of course there are loads of political and economic issues our world faces today, that could be dangerous to the planet.
Verse one, line 2: "I wipe my brow and I sweat my rust." As we can tell, the singer is using some sort of metaphor here since he says that humans sweat rust. As we know humans do not sweat rust, and by using this metaphor in the song, he is implying that humans are brainwashed and controlled these days like they are just like robots.
Verse one, line 3: "I'm breathing in the chemicals." This line in the song could have two meanings; firstly, the singer could be referring to an aftermath of any nuclear disaster that has happened or more likely that is about to happen. However, this line could also refer to smoking, since cigarettes and any other smoking material includes the process of breathing in chemicals. Additionally, in the music video of this song, right immediately after this line, we can see a man smoking. So again, this line could have a double meaning.
Verse one, line 6: "This is it, the apocalypse, whoa." In this line, the singer does not mean literally the apocalypse itself. He uses the powerful word 'apocalypse' to describe a dramatic change in either an individual or a government that he is currently witnessing, or about to witness.
Verse one, lines 7,8: "I'm waking up, I feel it in my bones. Enough to make my systems blow." Again, similar to the lines we witnessed before, the singer is using some extremely powerful words to indirectly get his point across, just like he used 'apocalypse' previously to describe drastic change. However here he says "I'm waking up." He's trying to say basically that he has finally come to realization of what is happening around him, and that he's ready to change. Similarly, like when he compared humans to robots previously; here he says he has a system. What the singer is trying to get across in those lines is that he has finally come to realization to kind of find the solution, and he believes that this solution is enough to make his system blow.
Verse one, lines 9,10: "Welcome to the new age, to the new age." Here we can tell that things have changed in the song for the singer, in a positive way. Those lines also may have many meanings, and the 'new age' can be referred to as different things. It could just be a new start for the writer himself and his personal life; or the writer could be referring to the new nuclear age we live in.
Verse one, lines 11,12: "Whoa, whoa, I'm radioactive, radioactive. Here the writer is trying to explain that he is unstoppable by using a metaphor by saying that he is radioactive.
Verse two, line 6: "This is it, the apocalypse." The singer ends this song with some strong words by saying that it is the apocalypse. This can't be a good sign, and that we are heading to the inevitable truth.
In conclusion, This song is an extremely meaningful song, that can be taken in many different views, and can be taken quite literally or metaphorically. The Singer uses metaphor for almost every line, and not only metaphor but some powerful ones too.
Monday, August 24, 2015
Summer
The school year ended during the month of ramadan; and immediately after the end of the school year I made my way to Jordan. It was great to take my mind off school work for a while, re live some great memories, and most importantly spend time with my family and friends who I haven't seen for a long time. In my point of view, nothing really changed. The roads, buildings, and areas were all identical and the exact same. It was a different type of vacation compared to the past couple of years where I would visit countries I have never been to before around Europe.
Despite it being a short and enjoyable trip in visiting my home country, that trip helped me realize and appreciate many things. I came to realize that I'm blessed to be living the life I'm living in Abu Dhabi, after seeing that many of my friends are limited to options when it comes to where and what they would like to study, remembering the way we drive, and of course after witnessing the struggles many of the Jordanian people face and live through in their daily lives. This has motivated me to put even more effort into my schoolwork this upcoming school year.
My vacation was enjoyable but now it's time to get back to reality as I'm looking forward to get done with this final year of school. Now that I'm back in Abu Dhabi, its probably time to get started with my summer work.
Despite it being a short and enjoyable trip in visiting my home country, that trip helped me realize and appreciate many things. I came to realize that I'm blessed to be living the life I'm living in Abu Dhabi, after seeing that many of my friends are limited to options when it comes to where and what they would like to study, remembering the way we drive, and of course after witnessing the struggles many of the Jordanian people face and live through in their daily lives. This has motivated me to put even more effort into my schoolwork this upcoming school year.
My vacation was enjoyable but now it's time to get back to reality as I'm looking forward to get done with this final year of school. Now that I'm back in Abu Dhabi, its probably time to get started with my summer work.
Saturday, May 9, 2015
Paper 2 practice
3) Discuss the significance of social status in things fall apart and comment on its contribution to characterization.
Things fall apart is a post colonial novel written by a nigerian author, Chinua Achebe in 1958. The novel is linked with many traditional and religious aspects of an Ibo community located in Nigeria. One of the important and main aspects of the story is social status. Things fall apart offers the reader an insight into the Ibo world and culture, and how they live their lives.
Social status plays a crucial and significant role in the novel things fall apart as it drives many of Okonkwo's actions throughout the story. It was made clear throughout the novel that Okonkwo (the tragic hero) had a fear of ending up like his father or showing any hint of femininity or that he has any weakness in him. Due to this fear he had of not ending up like his father, Okonkwo reacted extremely violently in certain circumstances, worked hardly, and achieved a well respected status in his community.
In the Ibo culture, a man or woman's social status was always determined by his value, and what he brings to the community, rather than his legacy. Okonkwo was a respected character since he was extremely hard working and worked his way up to achieve his goals; unlike his father, who contrasts Okonkwo and never achieved anything special or gained titles like Okonkwo had. Okonkwo wanted to specifically differ from his father's laziness and poor lifestyle, and he did that in many different ways such as: being brave in wars, his yam crop which earned him a good amount of money, and showing off his wrestling skills.
Okonkwo's first big and major step to success which got him his well respected and great status in his village, was when he received the help of Nwakibie (a wealthy clansmen) who handed Okonkwo eight hundred seed yams which was twice the amount Okonkwo asked for. Nwakibie helps Okonkwo start his personal wealth and his respected status in society.
Later in the story, Okonkwo begins to face challenges to maintain and keep his social status and not to lose it. Okonkwo commits reckless acts that he doesn't emotionally agree with in order to maintain his status, such as: Stabbing his adopted son Ikemefuna with a machete, as well as joining the party that will have him executed, just so he doesn't appear to be weak in front of everybody and lose his trait of bravery. He then also beats his wife in the 'week of peace', due to the fact that she didn't get his dinner how he wanted it and when he wanted it. (It was unknown and impossible for anyone to commit any sort of violence in the 'week of peace'). Okonkwo also fails to adapt to the colonization of the white missionaries, which then led to him killing a white messenger. He was desperate for power and to maintain the image of power in himself, but he doesn't realize that he is negatively affecting his people. All these reckless actions finally lead to Okonkwo's downfall. It can be argued that one of the main factors that led to Okonkwo's downfall, was the idea of maintaining and not losing his social status.
Things fall apart is a post colonial novel written by a nigerian author, Chinua Achebe in 1958. The novel is linked with many traditional and religious aspects of an Ibo community located in Nigeria. One of the important and main aspects of the story is social status. Things fall apart offers the reader an insight into the Ibo world and culture, and how they live their lives.
Social status plays a crucial and significant role in the novel things fall apart as it drives many of Okonkwo's actions throughout the story. It was made clear throughout the novel that Okonkwo (the tragic hero) had a fear of ending up like his father or showing any hint of femininity or that he has any weakness in him. Due to this fear he had of not ending up like his father, Okonkwo reacted extremely violently in certain circumstances, worked hardly, and achieved a well respected status in his community.
In the Ibo culture, a man or woman's social status was always determined by his value, and what he brings to the community, rather than his legacy. Okonkwo was a respected character since he was extremely hard working and worked his way up to achieve his goals; unlike his father, who contrasts Okonkwo and never achieved anything special or gained titles like Okonkwo had. Okonkwo wanted to specifically differ from his father's laziness and poor lifestyle, and he did that in many different ways such as: being brave in wars, his yam crop which earned him a good amount of money, and showing off his wrestling skills.
Okonkwo's first big and major step to success which got him his well respected and great status in his village, was when he received the help of Nwakibie (a wealthy clansmen) who handed Okonkwo eight hundred seed yams which was twice the amount Okonkwo asked for. Nwakibie helps Okonkwo start his personal wealth and his respected status in society.
Later in the story, Okonkwo begins to face challenges to maintain and keep his social status and not to lose it. Okonkwo commits reckless acts that he doesn't emotionally agree with in order to maintain his status, such as: Stabbing his adopted son Ikemefuna with a machete, as well as joining the party that will have him executed, just so he doesn't appear to be weak in front of everybody and lose his trait of bravery. He then also beats his wife in the 'week of peace', due to the fact that she didn't get his dinner how he wanted it and when he wanted it. (It was unknown and impossible for anyone to commit any sort of violence in the 'week of peace'). Okonkwo also fails to adapt to the colonization of the white missionaries, which then led to him killing a white messenger. He was desperate for power and to maintain the image of power in himself, but he doesn't realize that he is negatively affecting his people. All these reckless actions finally lead to Okonkwo's downfall. It can be argued that one of the main factors that led to Okonkwo's downfall, was the idea of maintaining and not losing his social status.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Okonkwo character analysis
Chinua Achebe introduces the protagonist Okonkwo using both indirect and direct characterization throughout the novel things fall apart. Okonkwo is introduced into the story as a powerful man, with a strong personality, and as a professional fighter. Due to his strong personality he is capable of leading a group or a tribe. He is a fearless character who values many things in his life and is loyal to his tribe, family, village, and religion. There is some evidence in the beginning of the story that Okonkwo is a loving person, when he really loved his daughter Enzima, however he hid the love of his daughter so he doesn't look so feminine and so he could still look like a strong person and character.
As the story continues, Okonkwo makes many major mistakes which turned his life around for the worse, from a fairly decent life to a poor one. He accidentally shoots his wife, as well as killing his own son ikemefuna, and killing ezudu's son. His life turns around, and he ends up killing himself due to his careless actions.
Chinua Achebe, the writer chose to have a tragic hero (Okonkwo) in the play, in order to show the life of an african society and community, and they're daily struggles they face to solve the problem of colonization.
The character of Okonkwo is also used to show the audience that western colonization at the time was a horrible thing for Africa, since he hung himself in the end of the novel. Okonkwo's fall wasn't the only in the story, as there were many other characters that faced the same issues over western colonization, however his was the one that stood out most considering the fact he decided to hang himself.
As the story continues, Okonkwo makes many major mistakes which turned his life around for the worse, from a fairly decent life to a poor one. He accidentally shoots his wife, as well as killing his own son ikemefuna, and killing ezudu's son. His life turns around, and he ends up killing himself due to his careless actions.
Chinua Achebe, the writer chose to have a tragic hero (Okonkwo) in the play, in order to show the life of an african society and community, and they're daily struggles they face to solve the problem of colonization.
The character of Okonkwo is also used to show the audience that western colonization at the time was a horrible thing for Africa, since he hung himself in the end of the novel. Okonkwo's fall wasn't the only in the story, as there were many other characters that faced the same issues over western colonization, however his was the one that stood out most considering the fact he decided to hang himself.
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Paper 1 speech analysis practice
We shall fight on the beaches is the common title given to a speech given by the former British leader Winston Churchill. The speech was delivered to the House of commons British Parliament, in 1940 during World War 2 warning the parliament of a possible German attack. In this analysis I will identify the use of literary techniques and rhetorical devices throughout the speech.
"At any rate that is what we are going to try and do. That is the resolve of his Majesty's Government-every man of them. That is the will of the parliament and nation."
The above lines are said by Churchill in the very beginning of the speech, and makes it clear who the intended audience of this speech is. We know that the targeted audience of the speech are the people and public of Britain; However the above lines tell us that the intended audience is the parliament more specifically rather than the nation in general. We know that because he says: "That is the will of the parliament and nation."
"Even though the large tracts of Europe and many old famous states have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail."
This quote in the speech makes two significant statements, and also lets us know the overall purpose of the speech. In the above lines, Winston Churchill reminds and states that many strong European nations have collapsed and defeated by nazi Germany in the past, However he shows his intentions of keeping his country stable, safe, and not surrendering to any nation and especially nazi Germany no matter what.
"I have, myself, full confidence that if all do their duty, if nothing is neglected, and if the best arrangements are made, as they are being made, we shall prove ourselves once again able to defend our island home, to ride out the storm of war, and to outlive the menace of tyranny, if necessary for years, if necessary alone."
Those lines above are the opening words of Winston Churchill's speech. The opening of the speech makes the purpose clear as well. Churchill once again assures and repeats that Britain should be safe and successful during the brutal war. The overall purpose of the speech is to have his nation Britain is to defend themselves incase there are any attacks aimed towards them during the World War.
Throughout his speech, Churchill continues to use repetition, exaggerating the importance on how Britain should have itself ready for anything and the worst, while also reminding the parliament about the other great nations that failed in wars previously.
"Even though the large tracts of Europe and many old famous states have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail."
Once again going back to this quote, Winston Churchill installs fear into his parliament and the public by constantly using the strategy of repetition, constantly repeating that many great nations have failed before.
Churchill's tone in this speech sounds very inspirational, and is extremely confident. Throughout the entire speech, he shows belief in his people and country, However he also inserts some fear.
"I have myself, full of confidence."
This is one of the many lines where Churchill shows his optimism and confidence in his people and nation. He speaks in an inspiring tone, especially when approaching the end of his speech when he talks about what they need to do to keep themselves safe from enemies such as nazi Germany. He inspires the parliament and his people.
Overall, I think this speech was delivered nicely by the former British leader Winston Churchill. He is constantly optimistic and confident of his nation's abilities throughout the speech, and on the other hand he also warns them of threats and other nations, trying to make them fear. Many rhetorical devices are used throughout the speech, which is what makes it a great speech, since a speech without rhetorical devices cannot be successful. There was also a lot of repetition throughout the speech.
"At any rate that is what we are going to try and do. That is the resolve of his Majesty's Government-every man of them. That is the will of the parliament and nation."
The above lines are said by Churchill in the very beginning of the speech, and makes it clear who the intended audience of this speech is. We know that the targeted audience of the speech are the people and public of Britain; However the above lines tell us that the intended audience is the parliament more specifically rather than the nation in general. We know that because he says: "That is the will of the parliament and nation."
"Even though the large tracts of Europe and many old famous states have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail."
This quote in the speech makes two significant statements, and also lets us know the overall purpose of the speech. In the above lines, Winston Churchill reminds and states that many strong European nations have collapsed and defeated by nazi Germany in the past, However he shows his intentions of keeping his country stable, safe, and not surrendering to any nation and especially nazi Germany no matter what.
"I have, myself, full confidence that if all do their duty, if nothing is neglected, and if the best arrangements are made, as they are being made, we shall prove ourselves once again able to defend our island home, to ride out the storm of war, and to outlive the menace of tyranny, if necessary for years, if necessary alone."
Those lines above are the opening words of Winston Churchill's speech. The opening of the speech makes the purpose clear as well. Churchill once again assures and repeats that Britain should be safe and successful during the brutal war. The overall purpose of the speech is to have his nation Britain is to defend themselves incase there are any attacks aimed towards them during the World War.
Throughout his speech, Churchill continues to use repetition, exaggerating the importance on how Britain should have itself ready for anything and the worst, while also reminding the parliament about the other great nations that failed in wars previously.
"Even though the large tracts of Europe and many old famous states have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail."
Once again going back to this quote, Winston Churchill installs fear into his parliament and the public by constantly using the strategy of repetition, constantly repeating that many great nations have failed before.
Churchill's tone in this speech sounds very inspirational, and is extremely confident. Throughout the entire speech, he shows belief in his people and country, However he also inserts some fear.
"I have myself, full of confidence."
This is one of the many lines where Churchill shows his optimism and confidence in his people and nation. He speaks in an inspiring tone, especially when approaching the end of his speech when he talks about what they need to do to keep themselves safe from enemies such as nazi Germany. He inspires the parliament and his people.
Overall, I think this speech was delivered nicely by the former British leader Winston Churchill. He is constantly optimistic and confident of his nation's abilities throughout the speech, and on the other hand he also warns them of threats and other nations, trying to make them fear. Many rhetorical devices are used throughout the speech, which is what makes it a great speech, since a speech without rhetorical devices cannot be successful. There was also a lot of repetition throughout the speech.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Monday, February 2, 2015
My most meaningful takeaway
Today in class we had a group discussion about two different texts we read over the winter break; How to tame a wild tongue and Woman Warrior. After discussing the two different texts in groups, we were asked to identify what was our most meaningful takeaway from this activity.
For me, there was a quote that really stuck with me, and that was from the first story which was 'How to tame a wild tongue.' The quote was in the fourth paragraph: "Who is to say that robbing people of its language is less violent than war?"
I completely agree with this quote since it states that robbing someone of their language isn't just a normal crime, but they compare it with war which tells us that its a much bigger issue. The message of the quote is to basically let us know that when you take away someones language, you are also stripping them from their culture and identity as well. Once the person is stripped from his language he then has no power.
My most meaningful takeaway from the story and text 'Woman warrior' was how the Chinese girls were really quiet and unable to communicate enough when they were forced and placed in American schools; they only spoke when they were really required to by their teachers. But then, when they were placed back into the Chinese system and schools, they were different people, and were able to communicate more with their peers and teachers. This relates back to the topic of language and power and how mother tongue and language can really affect power.
For me, there was a quote that really stuck with me, and that was from the first story which was 'How to tame a wild tongue.' The quote was in the fourth paragraph: "Who is to say that robbing people of its language is less violent than war?"
I completely agree with this quote since it states that robbing someone of their language isn't just a normal crime, but they compare it with war which tells us that its a much bigger issue. The message of the quote is to basically let us know that when you take away someones language, you are also stripping them from their culture and identity as well. Once the person is stripped from his language he then has no power.
My most meaningful takeaway from the story and text 'Woman warrior' was how the Chinese girls were really quiet and unable to communicate enough when they were forced and placed in American schools; they only spoke when they were really required to by their teachers. But then, when they were placed back into the Chinese system and schools, they were different people, and were able to communicate more with their peers and teachers. This relates back to the topic of language and power and how mother tongue and language can really affect power.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Paper 1 commentary: Text 2
This text is an article which is on the internet and was written by Oxfam International, raising awareness, and trying to spread the message about the food crisis countries in the West and Africa may face. The article includes different ways Oxfam International is trying to solve the issue and get this message out to as many people as possible so they are aware. The article tries showing how Oxfam is dealing with the issue.
There is no specific target audience aimed at from this article in my opinion, but could be aimed at rich people and it could be something that they might consider helping out in such an issue, as it won't be difficult for them; or even people that have had recent experiences or knowledge about the issue. The purpose of the article is to let Oxfam send out the message and show the actions and steps that they are taking, and try convincing anyone to help out by any means possible as much as they can. They also might be trying to convince people to donate to such an issue and help out, since they do accept donations.
A sad tone and mood is used through the whole article which of course is also a way to persuade since you use emotion. They give you some sad statistics showing what people in the Sahel region will face if the problem is not resolved very soon. The structure of the text also emphasizes on the sad tone as the first paragraph of the article starts off with some negative numbers and statistics about the case, then later introduces the problem, and finally gives some hope on solutions.
This article clearly uses Ethos, Pathos, and Logos throughout the text. Ethos is used since we know that this article is written by a trustworthy organization named Oxfam. Pathos is also used constantly throughout the article as it plays with our emotions. They try convincing us to donate and help by making us feel bad and even making us fear the worst. Logos is used in the beginning as they throw some saddening statistics out that show us what might happen if people don't take action soon.
Finally, the Sahel region is under risk and facing a huge disaster if no action is taken, and twelve million people could be dead once again like in 2005, and 2008.
There is no specific target audience aimed at from this article in my opinion, but could be aimed at rich people and it could be something that they might consider helping out in such an issue, as it won't be difficult for them; or even people that have had recent experiences or knowledge about the issue. The purpose of the article is to let Oxfam send out the message and show the actions and steps that they are taking, and try convincing anyone to help out by any means possible as much as they can. They also might be trying to convince people to donate to such an issue and help out, since they do accept donations.
A sad tone and mood is used through the whole article which of course is also a way to persuade since you use emotion. They give you some sad statistics showing what people in the Sahel region will face if the problem is not resolved very soon. The structure of the text also emphasizes on the sad tone as the first paragraph of the article starts off with some negative numbers and statistics about the case, then later introduces the problem, and finally gives some hope on solutions.
This article clearly uses Ethos, Pathos, and Logos throughout the text. Ethos is used since we know that this article is written by a trustworthy organization named Oxfam. Pathos is also used constantly throughout the article as it plays with our emotions. They try convincing us to donate and help by making us feel bad and even making us fear the worst. Logos is used in the beginning as they throw some saddening statistics out that show us what might happen if people don't take action soon.
Finally, the Sahel region is under risk and facing a huge disaster if no action is taken, and twelve million people could be dead once again like in 2005, and 2008.
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