sons and lovers

Sons and Lovers

Critically analyze Paul’s relationship with women pointing out why one or the other succeeds whereas another fails. Justify your answer.

The novel Sons and Lovers presents many portrayals of the various types of relationships that the women in Paul’s life undergo. Paul in particular is a character who exemplifies the diversity of relationships which have both succeeded and failed.

The first relationship which presented itself exists between Paul and Mrs. Morel, a succession due to mutual love and adoration. One may argue that this love is typical since it is a natural bond shared by a mother son relationship. However, this love is much stronger since Mrs. Morel due to her detrimental marriage with Mr. Morel turns to her children for love and solace. She is more drawn to Paul in particular because of his love for his undeserving, drunken father.  This relationship strengthens after the death of William in which Mrs. Morel entrusts her love in Paul, who returns her love.

The second relationship illustrated between Paul and Miriam is one of failure. Although there was an existing attraction between Miriam and Paul, the immediate disapproval of Mrs. Morel doomed the courtship before it even began. Mrs. Morel disapproved of Miriam as she perceived her as competition for her son’s affection. In addition to his mother’s feelings, Paul sometimes felt frustrated with Miriam which widened the gap even further. Moreover, as their relationship deteriorated to an on- again, off-again status, Paul encouraged an affair with Miriam’s married colleague, Clara. In the end his mother’s disappointment proved too much for the dearly loved son so he complied with his mother’s wishes and parted from Miriam.

In conclusion, Paul’s relationship with his mother bore succession because of their mutual love and care in which one showered the over. Nonetheless, Paul’s relationship with Miriam failed because of his mother’s approval and his infidelity

Sons and Lovers

Summary of the novel Sons and Lovers.

The novel Sons and Lovers begins with the description of the "Bottoms", now "Hell Row" where mining is the village's most prominent occupation. The reader is introduced to the main characters the peculiar Morels, a nuclear family whom for three weeks are now residing in their new home. The couple has two children William, seven years old, and Annie, age five and is expecting their third child. A fair is occurring and the anxious William attends in the morning returning by mid-day only to return to the fair with his mother and sister.  He impresses his mother by presenting her with two-egg cups which he had won. After his mother and sister left him at the fair William found himself missing his mother more than he had hoped. Later on that night after Mrs. Morel puts her children and awaits her husband’s arrival, she reflects with disappointment on her current situation. She detests her current economic standing which is not stable enough to foster a third child. Her husband’s drunken behavior is another factor to her disappointment. Among her regrets she finds solace in her children. Meanwhile, as Gertrude carries out her duties  cleaning, her husband comes home in his usual drunken state offering tokens as so to excuse his drunken stupor. Frustrated by his denial of his obvious state Gertrude retires to bed.

As the chapter proceeds, Gertrude reminisces on events in her past. The first incident of flashback occurred when she thinks of her old friend John Field who gave her her first bible, which she has kept to the present day. She is hurt seeing that they have lost all contact. Nevertheless, She remembers telling him to be strong and decide his own faith which she assumed was simple because of his gender. He strongly reminds her that being a man is not so simple.The second flashback occurs as Gertrude meets her husband, Walter Morel at a Christmas party. She remembers his instant connection to her and after her rejection he was persistent to gain her attention.  She recalls their happy marriage when they married the next Christmas.

However, the first evidence of conflict in the marriage arrives when Gertrude recovers unpaid bills in her husband’s pocket. In an attempt to resolve the matter she confronts he simply ignores her. To be consoled she visits his mother who shares her condition in the similar ordeal. This made Gertrude even colder and distant from her husband. The second conflict arose as Walter decides to accompany his friend Jerry Purdy, whom Gertrude disapproves of, to all the pubs in Nottingham. Mr. Morel after falling ill retires in a field.

The chapter concludes as Mr. Morel returns home frustrated, they continue to spatter and the drunken Walter locks his wife outside of her home and retires to his nap. After a few failed attempts to try and wake her drunken husband, Gertrude finally succeeds. 

Betrayal

"Yes," I can relate to the topic of betrayal since I, in the past have experienced some forms of betrayal. One incident occured when a trusted friend of mine initiated rumors about me without my knowledge.

At first I found it difficult to believe and understand, since I considered her a trustworthy friend. Then, I began to exprience emotions such as anger and hurt. So as a result,  to acquire closure, I confronted her about the situation.

I did not misunderstand the situation as she clearly confessed about making such faulty accusations and her  reasons behind doing so. She even went as far as apologizing for her actions. We are now, today,  still best friends!

The major Shakespearean plays I have done over years consist of:

The Merchant of Venice

Much Ado About Nothing

Romeo And Juliet

The character in these plays always seemed to resort to violence, trickery or revenge because in some point of they felt betrayed or defied by another character. The chracters also exhibit such characteristics as an act of desparation to save a loved one or provide happiness. In the first play the Merchant of Venice, the character Shylock initiated his need for revenge by insisting upon a pound of Antonio's flesh since he was unable to repay his debt to him. Shylock's persistence was not percieved as an act of revenge but as an act of justice due to Antonio's treatment in the past. Another example of trickery is  Portia, Bassanio's fiance act of desparation to free Antonio of the bond made with Shylock. She disguised herself as a lawyer and pleaded  Antonio's case setting him free.

Secondly, in  the play Much Ado About Nothing    the antagonist character  Don John only seeked to take revenge on his brother Don Pedro which in turn included the betrayal and trickery of other characters. The protagonist, Don Pedro and his trusted friend Claudio were tricked by Don John into believing  that Claudio's love, Hera, was wass unfaitful. As a result Claudio and Don Pedro angered and betrayed designed a plot to embarass the infidel Hera. Nonetheless not all forms of trickery are designed to hurt as some bring happiness.  An example of this form of trickery is presented when the other characters tricked Beatrice and Benedick into believing that they were in love with one another.

The Third play Romeo And Juliet consists of one of its main characters,Romeo, resulting to violence. His actions were driven by his anger for the loss of his cousin's life, Mercrutio, by the hands of a Montague, Tyblalt. Romeo then as an act of honour and justice, sought revenge on Tybalt and slayed him. Nevertheless Romeo and Juliet both orchestrated plans to untrap themselves of the circumstances that were not entirely of their own will. Hence, they tricked the other characters as an act of desparation to be together. But unaware  of the others plan and through some forms of misunderstanding their day of happiness quickly turned into a day of sorrow.

The historic events occuring during the era of these plays  was that the Reformation. Christianity was at its peak as paganism and atheism were not tolerated as they seek to reform England and the World. The renaissance "rebirth" gave light to the changes brought about by music,art, literature and theatre. Also in this era there were fatal diseases such as Influenza and  Black Death.

Elizabethan Theatre

The English Renaissance theatre was named after Queen Elizabeth I during her reign in 1558-1625. The Elizabethan stage plays consists of elements of both mystery and  morality. The mystery plays, a medieval tradition were intricate stories based on legend through biblical themes, as a result the plays were also performed in the Cathedrals. In 1572 the law bannedthe theatre companiesand labelled the actors as Vagabons. Nevertheless, Queen Elizabeth I enjoyed the plays leaving the privy council no choice but to reinstate the companies. The plays became  unified were both the commoners and upper-class were able to enjoy the play together. It was not until the end of Elizabeth's reign that the theatre belonged only to the upper-class.

The  illustrious theatre was then renamed  “The Globe Theatre.” It was constructed in 1597 then burnt down on 29^th June 1614. It was rebuilt in 1614 then demolished by the Puritans in 1644.

Theatre of the Absurd

The theatre of the absurd is a theatrical style based on the philosophy of the absurd and the philosophy of existentialism that began in France late1640's and stemmed to the 1660's. The plays are centered around the beliefs  that humans exist in a godless world therefore life has no purpose or meaning hence, their is a break down in communication.

William Shakespeare

William ShakespeareWilliam Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon on 23^rd April 1564 to John Shakespeare, a successful glover and alderman originally from Snitterfield, and Mary Arden, the daughter of an sophisticated landowning farmer. His actual birth date remains unknown, but is traditionally observed on 23 April, St George's Day. He was the third child of eight and the eldest surviving son. John and Mary’s children comprised of Joan (only survived two months), Margaret (she died one year later), both died from the plague “Black Death”, William (died 1616 aged 52), October 13 Gilbert (died 1612 aged 46), Joan (died 1646 aged 77), Anne (1579 died aged 7), Richard (died 1613 aged 39) and Edmund (died 1607 aged 27).
In 1553, Shakespeare received an education at the King’s New School in Stratford, a free chartered school a quarter- mile away from his home. With the school’s curriculum governed by England’s law (Elizabethan era), he was given an intensive education in Latin Grammar and the Classic Arts
At the age of 18, Shakespeare married an older Anne Hathaway of 26 years. The wedding took place on 27^th of November 1582 where the consistory court of the Diocese of Worcester issued a marriage license. Six months following the marriage Anne gave birth to a daughter, Susanna, baptized 26 May 1583. Almost two years later followed twins, son, Hamnet and daughter, Judith and they were baptized 2 February 1585. Hamnet died of unknown causes at the age of 11 and was buried 11 August 1596. Between 1585 and 1592, he began a successful career in London as an actor, writer, and part owner of a playing company called the Lord Chamberlain's Men, later known as the King's Men.
Shakespeare produced most of his known work between 1589 and 1613. His early plays were mainly comedies and histories, genres he raised to the peak of sophistication and artistry by the end of the 16th century. He then wrote mainly tragedies until about 1608, including Hamlet, King Lear, and Macbeth, considered some of the finest works in the English language. In his last phase, he wrote tragicomedies, also known as romances, and collaborated with other playwrights. He then later retired to Stratford around 1613, where he died three years later on 23^rd April 1616.
Many of Shakespeare’s plays were published in editions of varying quality and accuracy during his lifetime. In 1623, two of his former theatrical colleagues published the First Folio, a collected edition of his dramatic works that included all but two of the plays now recognized as Shakespeare's

William Shakespeare is regarded as the greatest playwright to date his surviving works consists of an estimated 38 plays, 154 sonnets, 2 long narrative poems, and several other poems. The list of  forms of the plays produced are:

Comedy                                

All's Well That Ends Well
As You Like It
The Comedy of Errors
Cymbeline
Love's Labours Lost
Measure for Measure
The Merry Wives of Windsor
The Merchant of Venice
A Midsummer Night's Dream
Much Ado About Nothing
Pericles, Prince of Tyre
Taming of the Shrew
The Tempest
Troilus and Cressida
Twelfth Night
Two Gentlemen of Verona
Winter's Tale

History

Henry IV, part 1
Henry IV, part 2
Henry V
Henry VI, part 1
Henry VI, part 2
Henry VI, part 3
Henry VIII
King John
Richard II
Richard III

Tragedy

 Antony and Cleopatra
Coriolanus
Hamlet
Julius Caesar
King Lear
Macbeth
Othello
Romeo and Juliet
Timon of Athens
Titus Andronicus

Poetry

 The Sonnets
A Lover's Complaint
The Rape of Lucrece
Venus and Adonis
Funeral Elegy by W.S

Pride and Prejudice

   Pride and Prejudice.

    In the novel Pride and Prejudice, there was evidence of the many different  types of dysfunctional relationships. The relationship that proved most challenging  was that Mr. and Mrs. Bennett. 
There are many disadvantages that a child faces when they view the dysfunctional relationships between their parents. Such demerits include the emotional, physical and psychological breakdown of the child. The emotional and psychological breakdown of a child results in the child becoming detached. Some children channel their frustration by taking it out on others while some contain their frustration. In addition some children develop trust issues and is unable to expresss themselves frrly and openly. Drugs, alcohol and sexual relationships become a false solution as they look for an escape from their problems.Furthermore when a child is unable to deal with such complications in life, burdened with disappointment  the strain is seen on their physical appearance.    

It is very safe to say that most marriages today only exist for the sake of the child. Most marriages result in this when persons get married for the wrong reasons.  Such reasons include infatuation and monetary benefits. Marrying based on Infatuation with a person's appearance is disastrous since a persons look is fleeting. A marriage based on monetary benefits can be devastating to the relationship for both parties. The lack of common interest and communication brings about a state of dependancy and in some instances greed causing hatred. In such marriages today especially with a child involved parents will tolerate each other for the child's well- being. They are also faced with the pressure of what would be society's outlook on them as a family  so they are forced to paint a 'happy picture.' Nonetheless this does not always work for the best interest of the child as the child may notice some discomfort between the parents. Furthermore this tactic does not succeed since the separation is inevitable. 
       

Summary of Act 1, 2 and 3

Act

In the drama “Much Ado About Nothing,” the play begins with a messenger the news of the soldiers victory in battle and to expect their arrival in Leonato’s house shortly. Upon receiving more information about the war Beatrice then began to slander and insult Signior Benedick Mountanto of Padua. When they arrived Don Pedro also known as “Prince” along with his soldiers Claudio, Benedick and his “bastard” brother Don John all greeted Leonato and were praised on their recent victory. Beatrice then took the opportunity to continue her harsh insults and mockery of Signior Benedick where he, equivalent to her character made a few insults of his own.

After their exchange of insults, Claudio professed his love for Hero to Benedick. Benedick, a lucid man when it comes to love, was confused and enraged that his friend could be in “love.” He tried to persuade him to believe that such a thing does not exist and he is a fool to believe otherwise. Don Pedro now enters encouraging Claudio to pursue rather than try to discourage as Benedick attempted to do. Failing to understand the absurd behaviour of his friends talk of love Benedict gave up and departed. Claudio continued professing his undying love for Hero to Don Pedro. He also revealed that he would woo her but would not know how. Don Pedro, being the loyal friend that he was, in Claudio’s honour decided to woo Hero and receive Leonato’s blessings for marriage.

In meeting with Leonato, Antonio revealed that one of his men had overheard Claudio’s confession to Don Pedro of his love for Hero and their plot to woo her. Leonato now overcome with joy demanded that Antonio tell Hero at once so that she is prepared for an answer.

As Don John confides in his close follower, Conrade, his deepest troubles, Borachio another follower enters bearing news of what he overheard from Don Pedro and Claudio’s conversation. For spite and complete hatred of his brother; Don John and his two followers devised a plan to destroy this plot.

Act 2

On the night of the masquerade party held for the soldiers, Beatrice, Leonato, Hero, Innogen, Antonio and Kinsmen stood conversing. Beatrice’s in submissive and outspoken character is once more the topic at hand. Her witty quick remarks and her complete disdain for love is a source of amusement in this assembly of persons. When the soldiers entered the party, Pedro immediately followed through with the plan. The scene continued by introducing other couples such as Balthasar and Margaret, Ursula and Antonio. On the other hand Beatrice and Benedick continued their silly game. A disguised Benedick was Beatrice’s true thoughts of him. Meanwhile, Borachio and Don John pretended to have addressed Claudio as Benedick and began planting the seed of their plan. They claimed that Don Pedro’s bidding was not authentic but driven by his own selfish needs. Being as gullible as one can be Claudio, the bait, was easily hooked.

A now unmasked, distraught Benedick sees a jealous, angry Claudio and took his chance to prove his point of the pain and hurt that comes with love. The jealous Claudio now angered left Benedick’s company. Don Pedro confused by his friend’s anger, Benedick then gave an account of Claudio’s childish behaviour. Beatrice was then sent to retrieve the jealous Claudio. The miscontusion was cleared and Leonato gave Claudio his blessings.

After confiding in Don Pedro her desire to be loved was more vulnerable than ever, he decided that she is pure in heart. When she departed to festivities he devised a plan with Claudio, Hero and Leonato to make Benedick and Beatrice fall in love.

With their first plot as a failure, Don John and his followers decided to destroy that is about to take place between Count Claudio and Hero.

Benedick is alone in the orchard and is outpouring his desires of a woman if he so chooses one. Don Pedro, Leonato, Claudio and Balthasar then enter the orchard. After Balthasar’s singing, well aware of Benedict’s presence they began recalling instances of Beatrice professing her undying love Benedick. Although part of him did not believe this trick, a part of him that for love believed.

Act 3

The plot continues as Hero, and Ursula confess they have heard evidences of Benedick confessing his love for Beatrice entirely. Beatrice was also skeptical but took the bait.

While Don Pedro announces his quick and sudden departure after the wedding to Claudio, Benedick and Leonato, Benedick in the conversation acted in accordance as a man in love and was therefore teased as a magician the pawn of his own trick.

After the meeting Don John approached Don Pedro and Claudio claiming that Hero is disloyal.  To prove his claim he took them to her bedroom window where two figures were seen intimate. Claudio along with Don Pedro then planned to disgrace Hero in front of the entire congregation.

Dogberry, the Chief Constable, and Verges, the Headborough and three watchmen met to discuss the security of the Prince and the wedding occurring the next day. As Dogberry and verges left, Conrade and a drunken Borachio stood before the porch bearing their devious plot against Hero. The watchmen having heard enough descended upon them and departed with them. The next day, Beatrice, Margaret and Ursula helps Hero prepare for her wedding. Meanwhile, Dogberry and Verges unaware of the watchmen’s knowledge of the two held captive, appeared to Leonato asking for his aid in interrogating them but was denied in seeing that it was his daughter’s wedding day.

   

“Much Ado About Nothing”

What did Don John vow to do?

       Don John vowed to “overthrow” his brother Don Pedro.

Who is Claudia in love with?

       Claudia is in love with Hero.

What is the perception of love or about love between Beatrice and Benedick?

       The perceptions of love shared by these two characters seem to be a ridiculous thought          pondered and believed by fools. They think that such an idea is absurd and because of such absurdities does not exist. Because of their disdain for love they harbor hatred against the opposite sex, as if almost blaming them for the complications and implications of love.

What is the plot to be executed by Don Pedro?

        The plot to be executed by Don Pedro is in Claudio’s name, woo Hero. He was to persuade Hero and Leonato in Claudio’s favor, since Claudio himself was unable to do so.

" Much Ado About Nothing"

                                               Music

     Music played an important  role in the play "Much Ado About Nothing." It sets the tone or mood of a scene and also emphasizes or help express the characters feelings and emotions. Examples of music in the play are:

                                                                    

As Beatrice read the poem  aloud to the persons surrounding her the music was light and slow setting a relaxing mood. As the messenger raced to Leonato the music became more vibrant and energetic foreshadowing something good to come. Upon arriving and delivering his message the music then accelerated becoming very loud, vibrant, lively, and energetic. The soldiers galloping on their horses to this music signified happiness and victory.  For people at Messina it also reflected happiness and anticipation. The mood changed as Claudio and Hero caught each others attention. The music suddenly became light, smooth and slow signifying  romance. When Borachio over heard Don Pedro's and Claudio's plan, the light, relaxing mood changed into something dark and sinister signifying evil.