janalysis

Hannah More "Sensibility"

2005-12-15T13:29:00.000-08:00

I particularly enjoy Hannah More’s “from Sensibility” and find it inspiring. More begins in an uplifting manner by exclaiming“…Sweet Sensibility!” (More 231) She believes that sensibility is a wonderful quality that begins early in life and although real, difficult to define. “Thy subtle essence still eludes the chains / Of definition, and defeats her pains” (More 235-236) There are a number of positive outcomes that stem from sensibility such as: discernment of what is right, insight, and virtue that prompts charitable actions “Thou quick precursor of the liberal deed!” (240). Sensibility also prompts good conscience, kindness, fairness, justice, helpfulness, and comfort for the hurting. More explains that those who have sensibility understand it and that those who do not, cannot appreciate it. “To those who know thee not, no words can paint, / And those who know thee, know all words are faint!”(More 247-248) More indicates that not everyone has sensibility. For example: “These lovely symbols may be counterfeit” (More 266). She also explains that there are those who claim to possess sensibility but their actions demonstrate that they do not truly have this quality. For example, she describes a man who: “Writes odes on friendship, while he cheats his friend” (More 276). She also says that the outward performance and ability to do good deeds alone does not prove that a person has sensibility. Otherwise, only the rich would be known for their good deeds. Sensibility can be as simple as “One silent wish, one prayer, one soothing word” (More 289). This indicates that those who have sensibility can make a positive difference in the lives of others even through seemly small heart-felt actions.

William Collins "Ode To Fear"

2005-12-15T11:44:00.000-08:00

William Collins “Ode to Fear” is a very well written work. I enjoy how this poem rhymes and the descriptions of fear give a chilling effect. Collins captures an essence about fear and gives an interesting interpretation about how he views fear. Fear is personified. For example: “I know thy hurried Step, thy haggard Eye!” (Collins 7) Collins provides a picture of fear as something that quickly pursues someone like a dangerous and frightening monster. “For lo what Monsters in thy Train appear!” (Collins 9) Fear is also described as “Howling amidst the Midnight Storm” (Collins 13). This gives a horrible image of an uncontrollable creature. The part in the poem where Collins describes fear lurking on a stormy mountainside is quite disturbing: “Or throws him on the ridgy Steep / Of some loose hanging Rock to sleep” (Collins 14-15).This poem certainly gives an effective description of fear and how quickly fear can capture a person’s imagination. Fear is a powerful emotion and the images described in Collins’ poem truly make fear appear horrible.

Edmund Burke

2005-12-15T09:02:00.000-08:00

Edmund Burke gives a very descriptive and interesting explanation about what he believes are the ‘origins of the sublime and the beautiful.’ Included in the sublime, he discusses astonishment, terror or fear, obscurity, and clearness. He defines astonishment as “[…] the state of the soul, in which all its motions are suspended, with some degree of horror” (Burke 797). He also explains astonishment as something that “[…] hurries us on by an irresistible force” (Burke 797). He calls it the highest degree of the sublime. In his explanation about terror, he uses descriptors such as it “resembles actual pain”, it can have an actual cause or be imagined, and animals can evoke it in humans (Burke 798). In his discussion about obscurity Burke explains: “When we know the full extent of any danger, when we can accustom our eyes to it, a great deal of the apprehension vanishes” (Burke 798). This indicates that if something loses its obscurity it is not as effective in its impact. Something which is considered obscure is able to provoke uncertainty and has a greater impact. Burke gives a nice description of the difference between obscurity and clearness. For example: “If I make a drawing of a palace, or a temple, or a landscape, I present a very clear idea of those objects […]” (Burke 799). He also states: “On the other hand, the most lively and spirited verbal description I can give, raises a very obscure and imperfect idea of such objects […]” (Burke 799). He continues to argue about why he believes poetry is more effective for evoking emotion than a painting. “So that poetry with all its obscurity, has a more general as well as a more powerful dominion over the passions than the other art” (Burke 799). Burke gives an excellent example about paintings of hell. He suggests that once a person views the paintings they begin to lose their sense of terror because people become accustomed to them. However, poetry provokes strong emotions and stimulates to the reader’s imagination (Burke 800). I find Burks description about the sublime very orderly and nicely explained. Burke also discusses elements that make something beautiful. Burke believes that something is beautiful if it is small, smooth, has gradual variation and is delicate. In these descriptions he provides greater insight into the elements that contribute to making something beautiful.

The part of his writings “from Reflections on the Revolution in France, and on the Proceedings in Certain Societies in London Relative to the Event In a Letter Intended to have been sent to a Gentleman In Paris.” Burke explains his beliefs about the Revolution on October 6th 1789 and the unjust death that results. Although Burke believes in the general rights of men that the French Revolutionists support, he disagrees with the application of their new political theories. He believes that people are complex and that simplistic political theories cannot be used to govern the whole of society and the real needs of people (Burke 804). Burke argues that the simplistic theories in the hands of the Revolutionaries lead to greater injustice and destruction of the French society. He says that these Revolutionary theories have promoted criminals and power hungry individuals to hurt innocent people who should be protected by the new theories of liberty (Burke 808). “They have a power given to them, like that of the evil principle, to subvert and destroy; but none to construct […]” (Burke 808). Burke explains “When ancient opinions and rules of life are taken away, the loss cannot possibly be estimated” (Burke 812). This means that radical changes can produce unforeseen future outcomes that can harm a society.

His strong emotions are very evident when he expresses: “Why do I fell so differently from the Reverend Dr. Price […] because it is natural I should […]” (Burke 813). In this instance he is being extremely open about his emotions. He says that “[…] because in those natural feelings we learn great lessons […]” (Burke 813). If the Revolutionists had believed in the political theories of justice and liberty, and applied them with the feelings of the natural humanity, they would have realized the injustice of the killing and destruction. “Their liberty is not liberal. Their Science is presumptuous ignorance. Their humanity is savage and brutal” (Burke 812). Burke is horrified with the French Revolution and he believes that the simplistic reasoning will continue to hurt society. Burke believes that murdering and destroying in the name of theoretical rights and in the name of public benefit will lead to the actual loss of the “[…] the rights of men, [and] all natural sense of wrong and right” (Burke 813).
This particular writing of Burke was very emotion driven, his argument is quite convincing, and he is clear and effective in presenting his views of the French Revolution.

Thomas Gray "An Elegy Wrote in a Country Church Yard"

2005-12-14T17:39:00.000-08:00

Thomas Gray’s “An Elegy Wrote in a Country Church Yard” is quite a visual poem. Gray paints a picture of the surroundings and makes it easy to visualize as if the reader is a passer by. For example: “Now fades the glimmering Landscape on the Sight / And all the Air a solemn Stillness holds” (Gray 5-6). This gives a picture of the end of the day. Gray continues to describe the trees and then draws the reader’s attention to the graves below to focus on subject of death. He speculates about the lives of people buried there including the rich, poor, those who are honoured and those who are forgotten. These descriptions capture the reader’s interest and immerse the reader in the story. There is a part of the poem that reminds me of the poem “Flanders Field”: “We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie in Flanders fields”
(John McCrae http://www.vac-acc.gc.ca/general/sub.cfm?source=history/firstwar/mccrae) I thought of this when Gray writes: “No more shall rouse them from their lowly Bed / For them no more the blazing Hearth shall burn” (Gray 20-21). Once a person dies, what they have experienced dies too and only their memory is left. I find this poem quite sad and depressing although it does address the all too real issue of human mortality. It is interesting that Gray wonders if and how his own death will be remembered. The way that Gray speaks specifically about death it is not very comforting. “Can Honour’s Voice provoke the silent Dust / Or Flatt’ry soothe the dull cold Ear of Death!” (Gray 43-44) It does not matter how great someone’s life, their power to influence fades with death. Gray’s poem clearly points out the inevitability of death and the fear that after a person’s death, their remembrance can be forgotten.

Bernard Mandeville "from A Modest Defence of Public Stews: or, an Essay upon Whoring, as it is now practiced in these Kingdoms...Written by a Layman"

2005-11-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

Bernard Mandeville’s “form A Modest Defence of Public Stews: or, and Essay upon Whoring, as it is now practiced in these Kingdoms…Written by a Layman” presents a disturbing view about Prostitution and Whoring. He explains the situation that Prostitutes and Whores find themselves in and states that there will continue to be these kinds of actions as long as the current private and illegal system continues. Mandeville describes the problem with this private and illegal system which includes: the spread of disease, people spending more than they can afford and this takes them away from business, there are unwanted children that must be aborted or disposed of, there are separations between husbands and wives which lowers moral standards, and it causes virgins to lose their honour which often leads to prostitution. Mandeville’s proposition is “…That public Whoring is neither so criminal in itself, not so detrimental to Society, as private Whoring, and that the encouraging of public Whoring, by erecting Stews, will not only prevent most of the ill Consequences of the Vice, but even lesson the Quantity of Whoring in general…” (497). Mandeville discusses the benefits of building an appropriate number of houses for this public institution and outlines the organization, rules, management and operation of these public ‘Stews.’ Mandeville’s system is quite comprehensive because he discusses the management of accessibility, personnel, rate structures, tax issues, and health issues.

This is shocking satire because of its controversial nature, the time in which it was written and the pragmatic approach Mandeville uses in his brief argument. Mandeville goes a bit too far in his satire when he actually names the National Senate and House of Lords as public institutions that could further develop his plan. Mockingly he says his plan will “…doubtless receive infinite Improvement by coming through the Hands of a National Senate, whose august Body, being composed of Spirituals…”(499).
This mocks and challenges their high moral position in society. Mandeville mocks the House of Commons by suggesting that they can make further regulations to improve upon his plan (500). Overall, I did not enjoy the message that Mandeville tries to convey about institutionalizing the practice of prostitution. Prostitution is a dangerous and serious reality within society one in which women can be victimized.

Samuel Johnson "The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia"

2005-11-22T00:13:00.000-08:00

Samuel Johnson’s “The History of Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia” is a fascinating way to present someone who is in search of happiness and ‘choice of life.’ Rasselas points out that he is discontented with the current situation he is in while living at the ‘happy valley.’ He says, “…I should be happy if I had something to pursue” (Johnson 663). After, Imlac, Nekayah, and Rasselas decide to escape from ‘happy valley’ they meet a variety of people such as shepherds, a young man, wise man, a hermit, people of high rank, families, an astronomer etc. They question these people about their lives in hopes to find true happiness. Rasselas is determined that happiness must be found somewhere: “I have here the world before me; I will review it at leisure: surely happiness is somewhere to be found’” (Johnson 677). Rasselas clearly knows the type of happiness that he wants to discover. “ ‘Happiness’, said he, ‘must be something solid and permanent, without fear and without uncertainty’” (Johnson 677). Rasselas and his sister Nekayah demonstrate great determination in their search and do not want to give up. Nekayah, “…had yet the same hope with himself, and always assisted him to give some reason why, though he had been hitherto frustrated, he might succeed at last” (Johnson 683).
I found the decision and debate about marriage between Rasselas and Nekayah interesting. Nekayah says: “Some husbands are imperious, and some wives perverse: and, as it is always more easy to do evil than good, though the wisdom or virture of one can very rarely make many happy, the folly or vice of one may often make many miserable’” (685). This caused Rasselas to question whether one should marry at all. However, Nekayah explains that “Marriage has many pains, but celibacy has no pleasures’” (685). This indicates that either choice can have difficulties. They discuss the disadvantages between earlier and later marriages. The earlier marriage has rivalry and in the later marriage people are sometimes unable to enjoy their grandchildren (688-689). “I believe it will be found that those who marry late are best pleased with their children, and those who marry earlier with their parents’” (689). Resselas argues: “Perhaps there is a time when marriage might unite them, a time neither too early for the father, not too late for the husband’” (689). These view points and arguments on the subject of marriage demonstrate the complexity of marriage. The ending of the story is interesting in that they do not find true happiness in the world. Nekayah believes that happiness may be found instead in the eternal life. “To me’, said the princess, ‘the choice of life is become less important; I hope thereafter to think only on the choice of eternity’” (709). Each concludes a resolution about what they intend to do with their present situation.
This story was an excellent way to present a search for happiness in life. In reality people are in search of things that make them happy and may ask similar questions in order to discover their own true happiness. Nekayah points out that “…the state of life, that none are happy but by the anticipation of change: the change itself is nothing; when we have made it, the next wish is to change again” (706). In other words, people can be in a continual search for what makes them happy.

Alexander Pope "The Rape of the Lock"

2005-11-15T19:37:00.000-08:00

Alexander Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock” certainly takes an incident that appears trivial and makes it into something overblown and exaggerated. The title of the poem itself implies a horrific event. Rape has an awful implication regarding the vulnerability and violation of a victim. Yet what happened in the poem was only a trivial incident. Belinda has overreacted to a seemly minor incident of having a lock of her hair cut off and Pope comically shows this through the form of mock epic poetry. As pointed out in class today, there is certainly a great amount of emphasis placed on vanity and the way a beautiful young woman is expected to look. For example, the Guardian Sylph says: “ ‘Fairest of Mortals, thou distinguished Care/Of thousand bright Inhabitants of Air! (Pope 27-28). This indicates that the use of the Sylphs reinforces the idea that Belinda is beautiful. Belinda by making such a fuss over a lock of her hair being cut clearly indicates the extent of her vanity. When Pope writes “The meeting Points the sacred Hair dissever/From the fair Head, for ever and for ever!” (Pope 153-154) he makes this seem like an extremely terrible event. Through Belinda, Pope cleverly mocks the female vanity and the relative unimportance of this event. The description of the card game was interesting. In most instances, a card game in seen as a social activity and one in which people can ultimately have a great deal of enjoyment. However, Pope cleverly portrays the card game as a raging battle. The loss of the card game and the lock is compared to a tragic defeat with great loss. Despite the terrible loss, Pope comically says that her lock of hair has been shot into the skies and it she will remain famous because “This lock, the Muse shall concecrate to fame,/And mid’st the stars inscribe Belinda’s name!” (Pope 154-155). The language throughout the poem was difficult to read because of various uses of imaginary creatures and references to spiritually and mythology. Pope also made references to other epics such as Homer’s Iliad and John Milton’s Paradise Lost. In The Rape of the Lock, Pope has given us a poem that is rich in language and comical for its readers.

Gulliver's Travels Part III and IV

2005-11-15T19:09:00.000-08:00

In Part III of Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels Swift presents and interesting view of scientist’s in an exaggerated form. The scientist’s are so immersed in their work that they appear out of tune with other things that are happening. For example, when Gulliver first arrived in the king’s palace, the king “…was then deep in a Problem, and we attended at least an Hour, before he could solve it” (Swift 135). This provided the reader with a quick impression of the kind of people that inhabited the land. Gulliver describes the people as “…so taken up with intense Speculations, that they neither can speak, nor attend to the Discourses of other, without being rouzed by some external Taction” (Swift 134). This implies that the people are so preoccupied in their endeavors that it takes a ridiculous effort to get their attention. In Balnibarbi, certain individuals brought back theories and methods from Laputa to improve their society. However, they have still not perfected their methods: “The only Inconvenience is, that none of these Projects are yet brought to Perfection, and in the mean time the whole Country lies miserably wast, the Houses in Ruins, and the People without Food or Cloths” (Swift 150). The people are more concerned with trying to make the new methods and theory work than actually properly fixing the problems in their current situation. The Professors do a number of silly experiments such as “extracting Sun-Beams out of Cucumbers” (151) or using Hogs to plow the ground (152). This demonstrates that they waste so much time on things that appear unreasonable. As discussed in class, this reveals that Swift did not believe in progress. The descriptions of the Struldbrugs are interesting. At first Gulliver is excited that people can be born as immortals. This causes Gulliver to consider how much more he could do if he were born as a Struldbrug (176-177). However, after finding out the disadvantages of immortal aging, he concludes and shows the reader that the infinite preservation of life may not be as appealing as initially imagined. This particular adventure shows the reader that things such as progress and immortal aging can have disadvantages and that the reader should critically take a look at what would constitute a productive society.

In Part IV, Gulliver arrives in the land of the Yahoo’s and the Houyhnhnms. Gulliver makes clear distinction between the Yahoo’s and Houyhnhnms. He describes the Yahoo’s as: “…so disagreeable an Animal, or one against which I naturally conceived so strong an Antipathy” (Swift, 189-190). Gulliver wanted to completely distinguish himself from the Yahoo’s: “I had hitherto concealed the Secret of my Dress, in order to distinguish myself as much as possible, from that cursed Race of Yahoos…” (200). Gulliver described the actions of the Yahoo by saying: “There was nothing that rendered the Yahoos more odious, then their undistinguishing Appetite to devour every Thing that came in their way, whether Herbs, Roots, Berries, the corrupted Flesh of Animas, or all mingled together…” (220-221). This indicates the impulsiveness of the Yahoo’s. The Yahoo’s were also completely glutinous and “…they would eat till they were ready to burst…” (221). The Houyhnhnms on the other hand Gulliver presents in an entirely positive light. Gulliver says that the Houyhnhnms have “…a very mild Aspect…” (190). Gulliver also explains: “Upon the whole, the Behaviour of these Animals was so orderly and rational, so acute and judicious…” (191). Gulliver describes Houyhnhnms as ideal. “The Work Houyhnhnm, in their Tongue, signifies a Horse, and in its Etymology, the Perfection of Nature” (199). He also says what that they are unable to do evil. “As these Noble Houyhnhnms are endowed by Nature with a general Disposition to all Virtues, and have no Conceptions or Ideas of what is Evil in a Rational Creature, so their grand Maxim is, to cultivate Reason, and be wholly governed by it” (225). He says that they possess: “Friendship and Benevolence are the two principal Virtues...” (226). By indicating these attributes he compels the reader to think about which creature they may resemble. The character of Gulliver ultimately wants to be like the Houyhnhms. Gulliver could “…reflect with Delight on the Virtues of those inimitable Houyhnhnms…” (239). This leaves the reader questioning and continuing to debate what human nature should be like. A balance between the Yahoo’s and the Houyhnhnms may actually be better than being at either extreme.

Essay Topic

2005-11-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

The topic that I have chosen for my essay relates to female writers in mid Seventh Century Great Britain. My essay focuses on Katherine Philips and Aphra Behn and how they can be regarded during the time they were writing. I look at the differences in their subjects and writing approach. Katherine Philips and Aphra Behn are two female writers who struggled to write in a male dominated society. However, the great forces of change throughout Europe provided the environment for an increasing exchange of views and ideas.

Gulliver's Travels Jonathan Swift

2005-11-01T18:12:00.000-08:00

Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels” is a satire that is very adventurous and provides vivid text. I quickly became immersed in the story because of Swift’s detailed descriptions. Part I and II were quite humorous and it was interesting to read about the unfortunate and sometimes very dangerous situations Gulliver faced. There were a number of humorous situations that Gulliver encountered. For example, on page 24 Swift describes Gulliver’s necessity to relieve himself which he had been unable to do so for quite some time because of his situation among the Lilliputs. Another instance that I found intriguing was when he gave a description of his watch and how the people of Lilliput, reacted when they saw it: “And we conjecture it is either some unknown Animal, or the God that he worships…” (Swift, 29). It was also humorous when Gulliver as a giant put out the fire by urinating on it (Swift, 46). In Part II when Gulliver first arrived as a miniature man, it was amusing when he gave an account of a baby picking him up like a toy and putting him in his mouth (Swift, 76). Another humorous scene was when the giant monkey took Gulliver and the Brobringnag’s were trying to get him back(Swift, 101-103). I found the various stories and incidents that happened to Gulliver were very entertaining.
It was interesting to see the differences that Gulliver observed when he compared his own customs and experiences to the Lilliput’s and Brobringnag’s. The Lilliput for instance, did not think that poking out Gulliver eyes was an extreme punishment for Gulliver’s offences. However, Gulliver could not accept such harsh punishment for his supposed crimes. A trivial cause of war is seen between the Lilliput’s and Blefuscu when they argue about how an egg should be eaten. This seems a ridiculous cause for going to war. In another instance, the Lilliput’s want to defeat the Blefuscu, yet Gulliver is unwilling to completely destroy the Blefuscu when he explains: “And I plainly protested, that I would never be an Instrument of bringing a Free and Brave People into Slavery” (Swift, 44). This situation shows that Gulliver’s different approach and sense of justice. In Part II Gulliver tells the Brobringang’s King about the destructive power of a canon and this horrifies the King because he is not familiar with such violence caused by a weapon. Swift uses Gulliver to explore and compare different cultures and this gives the reader perspectives that they may relate to their own society and customs. The satire used in Gulliver’s Travels could inspire the reader to question their own practices and the reasons behind the various conflicts in their own society.

A Modest Proposal Jonathan Swift

2005-11-01T18:04:00.000-08:00

“A Modest Proposal” written by Jonathan Swift effectively uses satire to address the problem of the starving poor in Ireland and to criticize the authorities for their lack of action. Swift proposes an outrageous plan of decreasing the starving poor by using babies as a commodity to be sold as food. He explains that through proper selection, preparation, and distribution society could be improved. For example he suggests that the one year old child “… whether sewed, roasted, baked or broiled…” (Swift, 426) would provide a very good meal. Swift indicates the many benefits of his plan such as improved economic development by providing money for the poorer ‘Tenants’, reducing the number of ‘Papists’, and mothers providing improved care for their children to fatten them for market. Swift’s plan of action provides a sequential process that is well thought out and could correct the poverty problem. Swift’s satire is apparent when he says: “I can think of no one Objection that will possibly be raised against this Proposal…” (Swift, 428). He proposes a list of steps that could be taken to improve the condition of the Irish poor but satirically suggests that they are far more radical than his proposal. Swift’s purpose is to embarrass the English and Irish authorities for their inaction and refusal to take reasonable and necessary steps that would improve life for the Irish poor. Swift’s use of such an outrageous and shocking idea is an effective tool to engage the reader about his point of view.

Daniel Defoe

2005-10-27T20:21:00.000-07:00

At the first of Daniel Defoe’s argument in “The Shortest-Way with the Dissenters: Or Proposals for the Establishment of the Church (1702)” it appeared that he was supporting the Church of England and strongly criticizing the Dissenters. Queen Anne had declared that she would promote the Church of England over the Dissenters. Certain strong supporters of the Church of England wanted to take advantage of this situation and suppress the Dissenters. Defoe took the arguments made against the Dissenters to an extreme that made them look ridiculous. For example, “If one severe Law were made, and punctually executed, that who was ever found at a Conventicle, should be Banished the Nation, and the Preacher be Hanged, we should soon see in an end of the Tale; they would all come to Church, and one Age would make us all One again” (Defoe, 327). Defoe pointed out that the Church of England had separated from the Catholic Church and that the Catholic Church condemned this separation and wanted to use its power to force the Church of England to reconnect under their Pope. Defoe used this example to indicate how wrong the Church of England was for condemning the Dissenters and for forming their own religious expression of faith. “What’s the Difference betwixt this, and being subjected to the Power of the Church Rome, form whence we have reformed? If one be an extreme on one Hand, and one on another, ‘tis equally destructive to the Truth...” (Defoe, 328). Defoe indicated it was unsound for the Church of England and Queen Anne to compel the Dissenters to rejoin them through force. After all, the Church of England had for similar religious freedoms separated from the Church of Rome. If the Dissenters were wrong to separate from the Church of England’s control, then the Church of England was also wrong in separating from the Church of Rome’s control. Defoe was able to express his dissenting view point in a subtle way. He realized that religious freedoms based on sincere and reasonable convictions should not be suppressed and were of no threat to the nation. It is interesting that Defoe was so willing to risk his life for what he believed especially when the authorities understood the true intent of his writing.

Women Writing and the Education of Women

2005-10-18T00:18:00.000-07:00

Margaret Fox’s writing through use of Scriptural references certainly stated her case regarding the position of women and that they should not be treated as inferiors. Fox provided numerous examples of women in the Bible during Jesus' time and how He spoke to them, forgave them, and gave them important news to tell to others about His resurrection. Fox demonstrated that women were involved in and part of the central ministry in Biblical times. The emphasis Fox places on women’s participation in the Bible helps her to argue that women should play an equal role in society.

Margaret Cavendish’s “The Blazing New World” is a narrative that gives much respect and adoration to a woman. When the lady was taken to the Blazing New World, she was quickly made Empress. This gave this lady a leadership position which was not typical during Cavendish’s time. Cavendish explained that the lady had wit and a good spirit (Cavendish, 157). The Empress made inquiries and sought to learn more about the people of the Blazing New World and their customs and practices. The fact that she was interested in learning and “…desired to be informed both of the manner of their Religion and Government; and to the end, she called the Priests and Statesmen, to give her an account of either” (Cavendish, 159); indicates that she was capable of taking new initiatives. At the end of the narrative, I found it interesting that the Empress questioned why women were unable to worship in the same place as men. This line of questioning of a woman’s place was an effective means to challenge the inequality experienced by the women.

I was impressed that Daniel Defoe stood up for women and explained that women should have the opportunity to receive an education. Defoe challenged the belief by men that women by design were not as capable as men. He argued that even horses can be improved with breeding and training and that it should be obvious to men that women could be improved by receiving a good education. Defoe made it clear that women do not differ so greatly from men. They should be educated to improve themselves but not simply for the benefit of men as “…Stewards of our Houses, Cooks, and Slaves” (Defoe, 307). Defoe proposed a women’s school system. The system would also prevent male biased interference in order that women could receive a more rounded education. Defoe was an advocate for woman’s rights and he clearly understood that education of women would help to change their status in society.

Mary Barber’s poem was well written and in parts it was quite humorous. Through the subject matter she easily expressed that the value of a women should not be simply based on her beauty but instead on her wit and intellect. According to Barber, wise husbands will choose to marry a woman that is interested in developing her mind. She also believed that husbands should appreciate their wives for all of their abilities. I especially liked her last line in the poem when she wrote “And find, in your Wife, a Companion and Friend.” (line, 76). This demonstrates a picture of true partnership.

Antislavery

2005-10-17T20:39:00.000-07:00

I found the readings on slavery gripping and moving. Looking into some of the background on anti-slavery helped me better appreciate the work and effort that went into abolishing the slave trade and slavery. It was fascinating to read about early abolitionists and the important role that they had in communicating to the public about the necessity of getting rid of slavery. The class readings helped me to appreciate the important contribution literature provided through its vivid descriptions and details on slavery and how it could have an influence on the readers of the period and today.

Aphra Behn’s Oroonoko was a very enticing story that easily kept my interest. However, the brutality of Oroonoko’s execution and the gruesome details were difficult to read. It was interesting to hear people’s opinions in class as to whether or not they thought that Oroonoko was an anti-slavery text or a romantic text. In the introduction to Aphra Behn on page 225 of the text, it discusses the different ways that Oroonoko could be read. For example, female readers could take interest in the text due to the romance between Oroonoko and Imoinda. Also, in this introduction it pointed out that it could be read as a “reversal of stereotypes” or “as profoundly conservative” (p 225). It was interesting to read a work that could have so many different interpretations and be appreciated from different perspectives.

Olaudah Equiano’s “The Interesting Narrative” was very touching. I found it difficult to read the descriptions that he provided about how some slaves were treated. His writing made me think about how awful slavery must have been. It also was disturbing to consider the fear that was experienced and the harsh punishments that were inflicted on the slaves by their owners. I found his writing to be very personal and full of emotion which made it easy to sympathize with him about the horrors and unjustness of slavery.

Despite the sobering and sad nature of slavery, I was glad to become more aware about slavery and learn about a subject that is often forgotten or overlooked by today’s society.

Delariviere Manley

2005-10-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

In the reading “from the Secret Memoirs and Manners of Several Persons of Quality of Both Sexes. From the New Atalantis, an Island in the Mediterranean (1709)”, the Duke was a character who possessed a determination to assert his power. Early in the text, he wanted to make sure that Charlot was raised to acquire high levels of virtue and modesty. “He banished far from her Conversation whatever would not Edify, airy romances, Plays, dangerous Novels, loose and insinuating poetry, artificial Introductions of love, well-painted Landscapes of dangerous Poison;”(Manley, 351). The amount of restrictions he imposed on her were quite surprising, and yet they demonstrated how intent the Duke was in carrying out what he thought was best. The Duke’s determination to do what he wanted was also evident when he began to have romantic feelings for Charlot. “He was resolved to change her whole Form of Living, to bring her to Court, to show her the World; Balls, Assemblies, Operas, Comedies, Cards, and Visits, every thing that might enervate the Mind, and fit it for the soft Play and Impression of Love.” (Manley, 354). This indicates that he was controlling and driven by his passion to mold Charlot as he saw fit to fulfill his desires. He was very intent in his pursuit of Charlot and made it clear how he would do all he could to win her affection over others when he said he would “…caress and please her above all others, to show such a particular regard for her, that should frighten any new Pretender” (Manley, 354). While reading this I noticed that the amount of influence the Duke had over Charlot made her seem like someone who was trapped by being forced to follow what the Duke advised. There was clearly an age difference and Duke was also an authority figure as indicated when the Duke said she was “the Daughter of his Friend!” (Manley, 353). This showed that he was aware of what he was doing but still pursued Charlot because he was overcome with his feelings of passion. Charlot’s innocence was evident by the way the Duke described her. For example, he spoke about her “young swelling Breasts” (Manley, 355). Near the end he visited her in her chamber and he could not contain the passion he felt. Also, the language became more forceful and controlling. For example, when he forced himself upon her it indicated that he “nailed her down” (Manley, 357). This shows that Charlot was a victim of the Duke. It is upsetting to think of the amount of control he had over her and how this limited her own freedom of choice and influenced the resulting course of her life.

Lucy Apsley Hutchinson (1620-1681)

2005-10-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

While reading Lucy Apsley Hutchinson’s “from Memoirs of the Life of Colonel Hutchinson (1664),” it was clear that Lucy Hutchinson was well educated and more interested in furthering her intellectual development than simply focusing on her physical appearance. The women in her society criticized her atypical behavior according to their standards. For example, she wrote about her female peers opinion about the “…negligence of her dress and habit and all womanish ornaments, giving herself wholly up to study and writing.”(Hutchinson, 141). Lucy was resented for not conforming to the typical pattern that her society determined for a young woman. Lucy Hutchinson mentioned contracting small pox. Hutchinson was glad that her husband was more interested in her intellect and looked past the disease of small pox and still married her despite what others thought. In her writing it said, “Yet he was nothing troubled at it, but married her as soon as she was able to quit the chamber, when the priest and all that saw her were affrighted to look on her;” (Hutchinson, 142). I found this comment about her physical appearance was important because it give a picture of her society. The people who regarded her small pox were disgusted with the way she appeared. This demonstrates that they must have placed a great deal of value on the way they believed that a woman should look. Today women are more accepted and encouraged to further their intellectual abilities. However, this is not to say that today there is little value placed on a woman’s physical appearance. On the contrary, simply by looking at popular magazines and other media it can be seen that an attractive physical appearance of women remains a great preoccupation. It is still surprising to see how much emphasis is placed on the way a woman looks.

John Bunyan

2005-10-02T20:05:00.000-07:00

John Bunyan’s writing placed great emphasis on struggle and the emotional state he was feeling while striving to discover true salvation from God. At the beginning of his writing he was confident and satisfied with what he knew until he heard what some women were discussing about their intriguing beliefs. For example, when he said, “…for I was now a brisk talker also my self in the matters of Religion: but now I may say, I heard, but I understood not;” (Bunyan, 163). This made him question where he was in his relationship to God. His search and struggle with doubt throughout his writing was evident. I found it interesting that he discussed his internal state of mind openly. The self- examination and the intensity of emotion seen in his writing made his struggle realistic and compelling. This was an interesting representation of how demanding it can be for an individual searching for truth. I was glad that by the end of his writing he appeared to be at peace with God when he said “Blessed by God for having mercy on me” (Bunyan, 165).

2005-09-21T04:16:00.000-07:00

There was certainly quite a contrast between Katherine Philip’s writings and Arphra Behn’s. In the poem “The Virgin,” Philip’s explained what she believed were qualities that a virgin should possess including: kindness, wit, innocence, not taking or giving offense, modesty, having strong religion etc. This poem really grasps Philip’s strong beliefs about being a virgin. In “Parting with Lucasia, A Song,” Philip demonstrated the importance of friendship and the pain that arises when friends have to part. This poem reminded me of ‘Anne of Green Gables’. Anne had a very special friendship with what she called her ‘bosom friend’ Diana Barry. There was a point in the novel when they were forced to separate and this was very painful.

In comparison was Katherine Philip’s writings, Arphra Behn’s poem, “The Disappointment,” discussed a female’s sexual encounter with a man who was unable to perform sexual intercourse. Behn’s focus was on the female body and desire. This is very different from Philip’s description of the qualities associated with being a virgin. Behn and Philip differ in their use of language in the poems. The language Philip’s used was straightforward and easy to understand as compared to Behn’s, which appeared subtle. The reader had to carefully consider and maintain a focus on what Behn was writing in order to understand what was happening.

Also, I was very surprised at the language that was used in John Wilmot’s “The Imperfect Enjoyment” and “A Satyr on Charles II.” I found what Wilmot said was very graphic and vulgar when he wrote about the sexual encounter in “The Imperfect Enjoyment.” In “A Satyr on Charles II” it was astonishing to read about how he described the King. Typically a Kings is seen as a respected authority. However, Wilmot’s description of the king was very derogatory and he treated him like a common person, instead of someone who is supposed to be regarded with respect.

Welcome to my blog for English 3204

2005-09-20T04:21:00.000-07:00