Tuesday, January 21, 2020

Black Athletes in Society Essay -- essays research papers fc

Introduction In the collegiate world of sports, basketball has become an increasingly recognized sport among African Americans, predominantly males. The hope of any young basketball player is that one day a scout will come and recruit them into stardom The question that presents itself as a problem to the lucky few who are chosen to go professional, is whether or not an education is more important than a million dollar shoe deal, â€Å"The NCAA's (1998) annual six-year study reported that only 33% of Black male basketball players graduated, (Chronicle of Higher Education, 1999). Individually, basketball reported the lowest graduation rate in all divisions,† (Robinson, 2004:1). Basketball players have become so idolized in the eyes of young Black male basketball athletes, that the value of education appear to be less important in the development of these young men, â€Å"According to Sailes (1997), there is an over-representation of Black males in particular sports and an under-representat ion in other segments of American society. He provides the example of percentages of Black males competing in the NBA (77%), NFL (65%), MLB (15%), and MLS (16%) in comparison to the fact that fewer than 2% of doctors, lawyers, architects, college professors, or business executives are Black males.†, (Robinson, 2004:1). The idea of the attainment of a professional basketball player’s salary in the NBA, without even having to go to school for the time it takes to earn a degree is very appealing to some players. Those with a wealthy, or even upper-middle class upbringing may not view material assets as a priority. In the Black community, we have theorized that money and success play a more important role than education in most households. Although these two seem to go together, one resulting from the other, this does not apply in the sports world. Our research will examine the role that the family value system plays in influencing Black vs. White male athletes to turn prof essional, as opposed to obtaining a college degree before turning professional. The role of the family value system encouraging Black male athletes to graduate from college appears to be less influential than that of White male athletes. The attainment of a professional basketball contract is more important because the value system in African American families appears to be focused more on immediate gratification. So r... ...r   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Education Statistics. No date of posting/revision given. 20 Apr. 2004   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This website provides the information on the graduation rates of all races. It also gives one important factor when studying the Black community’s graduation rates, â€Å"Black may be 12% of population, but only 3% of PHD, 6.7% of Bachelors Degrees,† and therefore encouraging the idea that the Black community does not support education as one of its main priorities. Robinson, Mark D. Ph. D. â€Å"Every Black Kid Should Strive to Be a Professional Athlete†.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Black Athlete Sports Network. 10 May 2004   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This article proposes the idea of what would happen if Black people really embraced the sports world and made that their priority instead of education, â€Å"He provides the example of percentages of Black males competing in the NBA (77%), NFL (65%), MLB (15%), and MLS (16%) in comparison to the fact that fewer than 2% of doctors, lawyers, architects, college professors, or business executives are Black males,†. Dr. Robinson brings up the sta†¦..

Monday, January 13, 2020

Associate Degree in Nursing Essay

Healthcare systems and the way safe, quality health care is delivered are continually changing to better serve patients and communities. Professional nursing practice is a large component in the healthcare system today. Back in the 1960s, professional nursing leaders tried to adopt the bachelor degree programs as the only educational track to become a registered nurse (Creasia & Friberg, 2011). Due to nursing shortages and demands this motive did not hold fast. Individuals entering the nursing profession today must first decide which educational pathway to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN). Although there are studies that suggest nurses with a higher level of education have better overall outcomes, there still exist different educational pathways one can take to become a registered nurse. The two most popular educational programs today are the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both programs prepare students to sit for the state’s NCLEX exam and obtain a registered nurse license. Each educational pathway poses different advantages and disadvantages. The associate level degree can be obtained in two to three years and offered through community colleges and technical schools. Because the length of the program is shorter than the BSN program, this can be viewed as an advantage, saving both time and money. ADN nurses are typically educated to be direct care providers, usually employed by hospitals and long term care facilities. The course of study includes general education and clinical nursing classes (Creasia & Friberg, 2011). Technical skills are emphasized in the ADN programs, leaving little time for critical thinking skills. According to the American Association of College of Nursing (AACN), ADN nurses are better suited to work at the bedside in less complicated plans of care (Baccalaureate Degree, 2000). The associate degree nurse does possess good technical skills. The bachelor level degree can be obtained in four years by attending a college or university. Obviously, the BSN program will take more time and money over the ADN program. Although most colleges and universities offer traditional four year nursing programs, some offer accelerated programs. It will usually cost the same, however you are able to enter the nursing profession sooner. Unlike the ADN program, â€Å"the BSN nurse is better prepared to practice in all health care settings – critical care, outpatient, public health, and mental health† (Baccalaureate Degree, 2000, para. 8). In addition to the content taught in ADN programs, the humanistic BSN education encompasses more of the physical and social sciences (Impact of Education, 2011). The BSN nurse is better prepared to work more independently, therefore is well qualified to practice in healthcare systems outside of the hospital. Bachelor programs â€Å"prepare professional nurse generalists for acute care settings, community-based practice, and beginning leadership /management positions† (Creasia & Friberg, 2011, p. 32). This course of study is crucial to the delivery of good, safe, quality patient care. There have been several research studies completed to see if there is a correlation between higher RN education level and better patient outcomes. Several studies concluded there is decrease in mortality rates within hospitals that employee a greater percentage of bachelor prepared nurses (Creating a More, 2011). There are several patient care situations within hospitals in which a BSN nurse would be better qualified to create and manage a patient’s plan of care. Suppose a 28 year old American Indian female was admitted for preterm labor at 32 works gestation with a history of non-compliant diabetes since age 15. Both the ADN and BSN nurse could clinically perform a thorough assessment of the patient, monitor fetal condition and uterine activity, and administer medications. This patient needs more than just acute clinical care; she needs education and resources on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle for her and for the child she will soon be raising. A BSN practitioner has extensive training in cultural, social, and economic areas and would be a much better provider of care than the ADN nurse. Both ADN and BSN nurses will usually start at the same salary in the hospital or long term care facility, the ADN nurse will be limited to career advancements and opportunities. Charge nurse positions may be available in some organizations; however any position of higher level will almost always require an advanced education. Years of experience will sometimes be of relevance for a higher level position, but ultimately, these positions go to individuals who hold a bachelors and/or masters degree. As healthcare settings and delivery of care change, more nursing positions require the Bachelors of Science degree to be hired (Baccalaureate Degree, 2000). Overall, studies and research have proven the BSN nurse to be better prepared professionally for the ever changing healthcare systems of our world today and tomorrow. There have been great strides by nursing leaders and organizations around the nation to increase the number of bachelor degree nurses from 50% to 80% by the year 2020 (Employment of New Nurse, 2011). Even though deciding which educational pathway to take now is still up to the individual, research points to the BSN program. Choosing the BSN educational pathway over the ADN not only provides a broader spectrum of education to better serve patients and communities, but also opens many doors of opportunity for growth and advancement.

Sunday, January 5, 2020

Effects Of Obesity On Children s Life Essay - 1350 Words

Today in the 21st century we have experienced an amazing amount of increase in technology, science, engineering and many other things. One of the things that has increased the most is technology, we are so advanced in technology that now organs can be transported in a machine that will keep them going, this means that organ transplants are transported safely and there is no time limit to the amount of time organs can last. Technology has grown so much that colonization in mars is very likely to happen soon. But as technology grows there has also been a huge amount of increase in weight. Obesity is something that many people in the United States suffer from, currently according to the CDC more than 36.5% of adults and 17% of children suffer from childhood obesity. These numbers keep growing year by year, and if these numbers continue to rise, obesity can have a huge impact in peoples life especially children’s. Children who are obese can suffer from high blood pressure, breathi ng problems, joint problems, cardiac disease, and low self-esteem and according to the CDC â€Å"obesity and disease risk factors in adulthood are more likely to be more severe in children who suffer from childhood obesity,† meaning that when children grow to be adults they are more likely to suffer from obesity and have more severe diseases than those children who do not suffer from obesity in their early childhood. This can have a great impact in their adult life because it can prevent them from doingShow MoreRelatedObesity The Problem Of Children!. Are You Aware Of1662 Words   |  7 Pages Obesity the problem of children! Are you aware of that over million American children are struggling with obesity? Obesity is a serious medical and psychological condition that affects children, adult, and elderly people. According to WHO, People who are above the normal weight for their age and height are called obese. Being overweight an early age has been global problematic. As Cause, high number of obesity results from an abnormal intake of unhealthy food and drink and also unable toRead MoreHow Does Obesity Impact Children? Essay1602 Words   |  7 Pagesharm it could cause to one s body. My partner, Alyssia Benejam, basically helped me with my choices to find a question and give me more info about m research question. After a while of thinking and deciding it finally came to me, â€Å"In what ways does obesity impact children?† Obesity is defined as, the condition of being â€Å"grossly† fat or overweight. As a teen we have stopped trying to figure out how obesity really works and why does it matter so much. As children we are told that we should a certainRead MoreChildhood Obesity Is Not Only A Problem1666 Words   |  7 PagesChildhood obesity is not only a problem, it is an epidemic that is occurring in the United States. ​This problem is often caused by children eating too much and not exercising enough. Childhood obesity became a problem between 1990 ­2000. It started with children s BMI increasing and weight gain. Obesity causes emotional and physical damage to the child. About 78 million adults and 13 million kids in the United States have to deal with the effects of obesity every day, and this number is growingRead MoreChildhood Obesity and Its Effect1260 Words   |  6 PagesChildhood obesity is considered to be a serious issue among our youth. Obesity can cause many types of physical problems, which most are aware of, but it can also cause some undesirable internal feelings within children and adolescents who suffer from it. Self-esteem, or self-worth, is important as it helps develop personality and is a major ingredient to our mental health status (Wang, F. and Veugelers, P. J., 2008). Some have said obesity may even have a negative effect on cognitive developmentRead MoreOb esity And Its Effects On Obesity1637 Words   |  7 Pagesdestructive can effects of obesity be. First of all what is an obesity? Obesity is an abnormal accumulation of body fat, usually 20% or more over an individual s ideal body weight. It is a very serious problem and is becoming very dangerous in today’s world. Obesity is now considered to be the second most preventable death in America, with tobacco being the first. As use of tobacco rates continues to decline, the obesity rates continue to rise. With that being said, death numbers of obesity are goingRead MoreEffects Of Obesity On Children Health1139 Words   |  5 PagesEffects of Obesity on Children Health Obesity is a serious medical and psychological condition that affects children, adult, and elderly people. According to WHO, People who are above the normal weight for their age and height are called obese. Childhood obesity has been problem in developed as well as in developing countries. As Cause, it is accepted that increase in obesity results from an imbalance between abnormal intake of unhealthy food and drink and also unable to burn calorie. There is increasingRead MoreEssay on Informative Speech Outline-Childhood Obesity840 Words   |  4 Pages   Topic: Childhood Obesity INTRODUCTION I. Attention Getter: Hi, my name is Jill. I have been a pediatric nurse for almost 2 years now. According to the National Center for Health Statistics in 2011, childhood Obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years. And in 2012, more than one-third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese. II. Specific Purpose: I would I like to inform you all of childhood obesity and ways to get involvedRead MoreObesity : American Culture : Obesity997 Words   |  4 PagesMark Loftus Prof. Downie ENG 102 21 February 2016 Obesity in American Culture Obesity plays an undeniable role in today s culture. Many factors such as increased meal size, food being advertised more often, lack of physical activity required for jobs, technology becoming a necessity in everyday life hindering activity, and unhealthy food being available at almost every corner of the streets. Ethnic backgrounds also play a role in obesity. Growing up I dealt with being overweight and had toRead MoreSchools Should Implement Programs Tailored to Prevent Childhood Obesity796 Words   |  4 Pagesadverse consequences of childhood obesity on the overall prosperity of the country, elucidating the urgent requirement of prevention programs in schools. Childhood obesity is one of the most alarming public health challenges of the 21st century(World health organisation.(2012). Obesity according to Bruce-Keller et al.(2009) is ‘a physiological condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to an extent that it can negatively affect health’. Over 90% of children in Australia attend school, moreRead MoreThe Effects Of Television On Childhood Obesity1337 Words   |  6 PagesThe Effects of Television on Childhood Obesity Essay It is evident that the rate of obesity is steadily increasing in North America and has reached an all-time high (Novonty 2015). This is due to the lack of physical activity, increased consumption level of unhealthy foods, and the prominent amount of exposure to media such as Television (TV). Although TV has not been proven to be a direct cause for obesity, it does however contribute to the development of children and adolescence obesity due to

Saturday, December 28, 2019

The Movie Into The Wild Essay - 1248 Words

We are all searching for our great adventure, or experience in life. An experience that brings meaning to our life, and makes us feel alive. Two young men, Pete Fromm, the author and the narrator of Indian Creek Chronicles, and Chris McCandless played by Emile Hirsch as the main protagonist of the movie Into The Wild, directed by Sean Penn, that was developed from the article, â€Å"Death of an Innocent: How Christopher McCandless Lost His Way in the Wild† written by Jon Krakuer. Both go through life changing experiences, as they venture into the wilderness. Utilizing all three sources as support, it is possible to compare, and contrast their reasons for going into the wilderness, preparation before venturing into the wilderness, and the development of each character throughout their journey. Going to college was never at the front of Pete’s mind as he was reaching the end of his days in high school; until one day his attention is caught by a catalog that slips from his friend’s pile of college catalogs. On the front, displayed a bighorn sheep, and read Wildlife Biology and University of Montana. The photos and descriptions enlisted in the catalog about the wildlife program pushed him to apply, and soon enough he is accepted into the college. At college, he was matched up with his roommate, Rader. He was an outdoors man, he owned a plethora of books about famous outdoors man and hunters. Pete began to take an interest in his roommate’s books, and the tales of great strength,Show MoreRelatedThe Movie Wild Essay1201 Words   |  5 PagesThe movie â€Å"Wild† is based on Cheryl Strayed’s autobiography about her trek along the Pacific Crest Trail in 1995. The story is set on the Pacific crest trail, including a wide variety of climates including: deserts, snow covered mountains, and tropical forests. Along her journey on the trail, the movie flashes back to several traumas that drove her into the wild, in order to rein vent herself as a strong independent woman once again, no longer bound by guilt, shame, and regret. This is a movieRead MoreMovie Analysis : The Wild Bunch 2009 Words   |  9 Pagess story and a film s plot are the â€Å"what and the how†. The Story is â€Å"what† the film is about and the plot is â€Å"how† the writer unfolds the action in the film relating to what the film is about (Goodykoontz Jacobs, 2014, p. 54). In describing The Wild Bunch story into the outlaw’s themed plot of violence, director Sam Peckinpah used dramatic impact quick action cuts coupled with slow motion aesthetic balance to create a mood of chaos throughout the fierce gun battle scenes which advantageously drawsRead MoreEssay on Into the Wild: Book vs. Movie956 Words   |  4 PagesInto the Wild: Book vs. Movie Into the Wild happens to be my favorite book, and also one of my favorite movies. Most people like one or the other, but I think the two complement each other because of the varied stances taken on the main character himself. In case you’re not familiar, Into the Wild is based on the true story of Chris McCandless who, after graduating with honors from Emory University in 1990, gave his entire savings of twenty-four thousand dollars to charity and set off followingRead MoreAnalysis Of The Movie Beasts Of The Southern Wild 947 Words   |  4 Pagesthe Southern Wild. Dir. Ben Zeitlan. Perf. Quvenzhane’ Wallis, Dwight Henry, Levy Easterly, Lowell Landes, and Pamela Harper. Cinereach, 2012. DVD. In the movie, Beasts of the Southern Wild, the setting and story line portray life in the Bathtub as a struggle; however, residence of the Bathtub sees it as a way of life. A poverty stricken group of citizens making the best of what they have, and when they face hardships, the community comes together to support each other. The movie emphasizesRead MoreComparing and Contrasting Into the Wild Book and Movie811 Words   |  4 Pagestrying on their oversized clothes playing dress up, children pageantry is nothing like that it sexualizes young girls. Can you imagine seeing your little three year old daughter or niece a dressed up as a prostitute, who Julia Robert played in the movie Pretty Woman? That was one of the many disturbing image I saw while watching Toddlers and Tiaras. How can a mother let their young daughters go on national television dressed in skimpy outfits for the world to see? I don’t know who at fault the mostRead MoreCompare and Contrast: Call of the Wi ld Book and Movie Essay869 Words   |  4 PagesSimilarities Buck lives in Judges Millers estate at the beginning of both the book and the movie. He is then kidnapped by Manuel, the gardener. He is sold to dog salesmen heading to Alaska. He is disciplined by the Law of Club and Fang. The man in the red sweater takes Buck out of the cage and repeatedly beats him. Buck continues to try to attack until he is to week to fight. He then learns the law of Club and Fang. Buck is sold and put on a sled team. He learns to dig a hole in the snow to stayRead MoreI ll Eat You Up !, Where The Wild Things Are An American Movie Released1432 Words   |  6 Pagesâ€Å"I’ll eat you up!† Where the Wild Things Are is an American movie released in 2009 that centres on Max, a rather mad young boy who in the end changes to become that of the ideal child. Through Max’s growth, Director Spike Jonze displays that different Transcendentalist tenets are still a valid aspect of our culture, and that writers such as Thoreau and Emerson still have their influence. Transcendentalists from the 1800s, such as those previously mentioned, have values generalized into living purelyRead MoreMovie Report : Wild Walls Climbing Gym, Spokane, Washington. Photo2433 Words   |  10 PagesThe photographs on the previous page were taken at Wild Walls Climbing Gym in Spokane, Washington. Photo #1 exhibits a climber while on the rock wall, supporting his own weight. Photo #2 displays the system employed by rock climbers to stay safe in the case of a fall. Two photos were taken in order to compare the system while the climber is on the wall and ascending against when the climber has fallen off the wall and is hanging by the rope. In the sport of rock climbing, the goal is, obviouslyRead MoreCompare and Contrast Call of the Wild Essay1375 Words   |  6 PagesCALL OF THE WILD The book and the movie of The Call of the Wild are both similar yet different. Like any movie based on a book, the movie of The Call of the Wild presents different characters and events than the book so it can be unique and enjoyable. In this essay, I’ll like to compare and contrast the book and the movie. The book and the movie of The Call of the Wild are fairly similar. In both the movie and the book, Buck first lives on Judge Miller’s estate and is kidnapped by Manuel, theRead MoreExistentialism : Wild ( 2014 ) And Into The Wild1739 Words   |  7 Pages Existentialism: Wild(2014) and Into the Wild(2007) For this paper, both movies used to explain Existentialism are adapted from real stories. The first film is Wild, starring Reese Witherspoon as Cheryl Strayed and the second is Into the Wild, starring Emile Hirsch as Christopher McCandless. In Sartre’s definition of existentialism, human existence precedes essence, therefore leading to meaning, purpose and identity. When Chris and Cheryl leave their family, friends and everything else they know

Thursday, December 19, 2019

Questioning the Sanity of Hamlet in Shakespeares Hamlet,...

In William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, we, as readers, increasingly question the sanity of the protagonist, Hamlet, as the play continues. His seemingly psychotic banter with the other characters of the play begins to convince us that Hamlet is, indeed, insane. Hamlet, however, states, â€Å"How strange or odd soe’er I bear myself, as I perchance hereafter shall think meet to put an antic disposition on† (1.5.171). He specifically tells Horatio and Marcellus that he will be acting mad, as a front. Hamlet has an exceptional grasp on mental philosophy and the uses and effects of logic, more so than the other characters of the play. Because of this, Hamlet appears insane to others, but in fact remains true to his†¦show more content†¦When Horatio and Hamlet see each other for the first time in a long while, they immediately are excited. Hamlet, with his sometimes-sinister blunt remarks, goes on to tell of how close the wedding an d funeral are to each other. â€Å"Thrift, thrift, Horatio. The funeral baked meats did coldly furnish forth the marriage tables† (1.2.179). However, on the opposite end of the spectrum of Hamlet’s commentary, his conversations with Polonius are rude and often pointed. In act 2 scene 2, Hamlet makes fun of Polonius for being old and for his long-winded speeches, but does so with such intelligence and awareness that Polonius fails to understand what Hamlet is saying at all, thereby thinking Hamlet is simply mad. This differentiation between playful banter and slanderous remarks show that Hamlet was incredibly mentally alert. More than just being aware of the logic in a situation, Hamlet is mentally present enough to question even his own thought processes. Hamlet is â€Å"in the position of the professional philosopher who criticizes his thoughts while he is thinking them† (Davis 631). In Hamlet’s â€Å"to be or not to be† soliloquy (3.1.58), he is questioning his own thinking by debating with himself about whether or not people dream after death. It takes a sane mind to be able to equally weigh the consequences of something as dark and intense as suicide.Show MoreRelatedThe Sanity Of Shakespeare s Hamlet793 Words   |  4 Pagesand debated the sanity of characters in Shakespeare’s plays, specifically the play Hamlet, for years without end. It is apparent that the character Hamlet, in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, maintains his sanity. Few experts believe that Hamlet’s insanity is clearly demonstrated by his actions. Some scholars believe that Hamlet proves to be undoubtedly insane during various situations. Maurice Baudin states, in â€Å"The Rà ´le of the Ghost† from Modern Language Notes, that the scene where Hamlet and Gertrude areRead More Sanity: Boundaries of the Mind Essay1493 Words   |  6 Pages Sanity: Boundaries of the Mind nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;The mind is a beautiful thing. The boundaries that someone can extend their rationality is different in each and every person. In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the balance of sanity and madness is tested. Hamlet’s way of thinking is changed, but in a way that his personality is only a front. By looking at the different events that Hamlet overcame, we can observe the passion for acting that many readers do not come across; knowing the importanceRead MoreAnalysis Of Hamlet s Sanity By William Shakespeare1154 Words   |  5 PagesAnalysis of Hamlet’s Sanity Throughout Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, we questioned Hamlet’s sanity. Did Hamlet have a mental illness or was it all an act? Was he really that great of an actor or was he really losing his mind slowly? Did Hamlet father’s death caused his insanity or was it his motivation? One part of the play, you would think he is not insane, and has out smarted everyone. Then in others scenes, you would think he had completely lost it. He often toyed with the idea of killing himselfRead MoreHamlet And Sanity Essay1806 Words   |  8 PagesShakespeare’s play â€Å"Hamlet† views the life of a complex protagonist Hamlet, the Danish prince who is fueled with vengeance to murder the killer of his father King Hamlet. Although Hamlet may be a character whose thoughts and actions resemble a madman or someone who has lost their sanity, it’s clear he is fully sane due to him deciding to fake madness to carry out his revenge plot on killing his Uncle Claudius, who i s the current throne holder and his mother’s newlywed husband. It is very facile toRead MoreBetrayal and Loyalty in Shakespeares plays3231 Words   |  13 PagesAP English Literature Composition March 14, 2012 Betrayal and Loyalty in William Shakespeares Plays William Shakespeare is one of the most recognized playwrights in the history of man. People have analyzed every sentence of his works and have taken note of the various styles used in his writing. Ironically enough, little is known about Shakespeares personal life. It is assumed, however, that like other literary writers, Shakespeare relates occurrences in his life into his writing. The averageRead MoreEssay on Hamlets Antic Disposition1487 Words   |  6 Pages   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In William Shakespeares famous tragedy Hamlet, the main character of the story is one majestically elaborated, aside from being quite complex. There are infinite volumes written about this character because Shakespeare leaves no firm proof of many of his character traits. Yet on Hamlets antic disposition, meaning his obviously absurd temperament or madness, Shakespeare leaves plenty of reason to believe that it is feigned, meaning that it is simply a ploy to help Hamlet carry out his plansRead MoreEssay about Suicide in William Shakespeares Hamlet2962 Words   |  12 PagesSuicide in William Shakespeares Hamlet In two of his soliloquies, Hamlet questions whether life is worth living. With characteristic ambiguity and indecision, he wavers as he considers both the Christian and the classical perspectives on suicide. Much of the debate surrounding Shakespeare’s treatment of suicide in Hamlet develops from interpretations of those soliloquies. Focusing primarily on his most famous soliloquy at the start of act three, much critical debate has arisen over the subject

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Exploring The Character of Gertrude Lady Hamlet Essay Example For Students

Exploring The Character of Gertrude Lady Hamlet Essay The character of Gertrude in Shakespeares Hamlet is a very complex one, and as a character has many interpretations. The most common of these being that of a very sexual being, thinking only about her body, and physical, bodily pleasures. It is her sexual appetite that initially turns Hamlet against her so violently. Her marriage to Claudius a mere few months after the death of Hamlets father is sudden and shocking, to both Hamlet and the audience. This marriage has soured the relationship between mother and son, and Hamlet is disgusted with Gertrude, Ere yet the salt of most unrighteous tears, Had left the flushing her galled eyes, She married. O most wicked speed, to post, With such dexterity to incestuous sheets The shock of her marriage to Claudius in such a short time after King Hamlets death gives the impression that the pair were partaking in an illicit relationship while the King was still alive. The theory is emphasised when the Ghost relays to Hamlet more disturbing information about his mother, Ay, that incestuous, that adulterate beast. The use of the word adulterate can be read to assume that Gertrude was Claudius lover before the Kings death. This would make Gertrude a much more loathsome character than she is, however throughout the rest of the play there is no mention of this adultery, and therefore not enough evidence for this interpretation to be taking too seriously. The definition of the word adulterate is to make impure by addition, and the Ghost is saying that Claudius has made his most seeming-virtuous queen impure. The reading that Gertrude was an adulteress would also have made her a much more important character in the play, perhaps assisting Claudius in the murder of King Hamlet, making her the villianess to Claudius villain. During the play, Claudius does not refer to her as his accomplice, nor does he confess anything to her, either protecting her through love, or simply covering his own back. Additionally, if Gertrude were indeed an accomplice in the murder of his father, Hamlet would have been more directly involved with her in the play in regard to his fathers murder. Yet when he confronts her in the famous closet scene and he announces all her crimes, he does not once imply she has committed adultery. Some scholars believe that there is evidence of an incestuous relationship between Gertrude and Hamlet, a view universalised by Sigmund Freuds Oedipus complex. In Freuds psychoanalytical theory of human development, he proposes the idea that all sons go through a phase in childhood where they see their fathers as a rival for their mothers affection and wish to establish a romantic relationship with their mothers. Freud explains that this desire is unconscious but if these feelings and desires are repressed, the boy make inadvertently preserve an unhealthy love for his mother. In Hamlets case, the complex is furthered by the death of his father. Hamlets repressed desire to take the place of his father in his mothers affection is usurped by Claudius, who instead takes this prestigious place. Hamlet also seems to have an obsession with the sexual relationship between Gertrude and Claudius, Not this, by no means, that I bid you: Let the bloat king tempt you again to bed. I feel this interpretation of Gertrude further emphasises her role as a sexual and sensual woman, capable of enticing all those men around her. It is hard to understand the deep devotion that Hamlet, his father and Claudius all have for Gertrude, but it is perhaps her way of surviving in the play. Gertrude can be interpreted as an almost trophy wife incapable of thinking and there merely for aesthetics, and is often described as dumb and dull by scholars and critics of Hamlet but this cannot be the case. Her intelligence, though not on the same philosophical level of thinking as her sons, nor the level of political thinking of Claudius, cannot be doubted. During the reign of her late husband, she was Denmarks beloved Queen, and after his death could have been cast into the shadows. But she managed to hold onto her position in the monarchy through her marriage to Claudius. The marriage can be interpreted as a motherly sacrifice by Gertrude, in order to preserve her sons right to the throne. Gertrude can also be seen as, perhaps more than any other characters in the play, the antithesis of her son. Hamlet Monologue EssayHe sees her, and her gender, as weak as her sexual needs are too strong, Frailty thy name is woman. Gertrudes good heart does not only care for the two men in her life, but for Ophelia as well, as she hoped that Ophelia would have eventually married Hamlet, I hoped thou shouldst have been my Hamlets wife and that his madness is a result of unrequited love. She shows great sympathy towards Ophelia when the young woman begins to lose her sanity, and great sadness at her death, portraying Gertrude as a kind hearted, compassionate woman, capable of great affection and tenderness. Her description of Ophelias death is some of the most beautiful, yet tragic words of the play, When down her weedy trophies and herself Fell in the weeping brook. Her clothes spread wide, And mermaid-like awhile they bore her up, Which time she chanted snatches of old tunes, As one incapable of her own distress, Or like a creature naive and indued Unto that element; but long it could not be Till that her garments, heavy with their drink. Pulled the poor wretch from her melodious lay To muddy death. Gertrudes weakness is shown by her desire to help others, and make them happy. She is easily persuaded to allow Polonius to hide in her room when she is talking to Hamlet, because she thinks Polonius can help uncover the reason behind her sons madness, showing maternal love and compassion. Gertrudes disinclination towards the truth is undeniable, but it is not in a malicious way. She lies to herself about the consequences of her own actions, of her marriage to Claudius, and she lies to those around her, but her lies are to protect those she cares about. Her lies keep not only herself, but also those around her emotionally and physically safe. After Hamlet has killed Polonius, Gertrude knows she must tell Claudius, but when she does she also tells him that Hamlet weeps for what is done. Gertrude, and we, as the audience, know this is not that case, but this white lie makes Hamlet seem to regret his actions, thus making him appear repentant. From any perspective, neither Gertrude nor Ophelia are as developed characters as Hamlet or Claudius. Shakespeare gives them very little stage time or lines, despite them both being key to the plot of the play. The play accentuates the roles and stereotypes in Shakespeares England. Women were expected to be quiet and submissive towards their male counterparts, daughters and wives were expected to be obedient to the requests of their fathers and husbands, and had no authority or control over their lives. This point is illustrated by the roles of Ophelia, the obedient daughter and Gertrude, the loyal and obedient wife and mother. The Elizabethan World Order sets the sovereign of the country at the head of the hierarchy, with nobles following after, all the way down through the social classes and ending with plant and rocks. Men had more power than women did, as the society was a patriarchal one, so this leaves Gertrude in a confusing position of power. Claudius has more power than her, but he only has this power due to marrying her. As queen, she has more power than a lot of men around her, but as a wife, she is dependent on Claudius. This makes her a very powerful woman for her time, and she uses this power to protect her son. In conclusion, there are many interpretations of the character of Gertrude, the caring affectionate mother, or the sexual adulteress. Personally I think that Gertrude is one of the most complex and appealing characters in the play. Her unwavering devotion to her son despite his obvious disgust at her is to be greatly admired, and she accepts that his madness is partly due to her marriage to his fathers brother. Her intelligence is not remarkable, but she shows an amazing aptitude for almost manipulating those around her to protect herself, and those who she cares deeply about. Gertrudes sexual nature is unmistakable throughout the play, this may be her weakness, but she is an emotionally strong woman, who is not malicious but kind hearted and simply wishes everyone that she loves, to be happy and amiable to each other.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Thomas Paine Liberal and Conservative Ideas

Introduction Thomas Paine revealed a number of liberal ideas in his work â€Å"Common Sense†. He considered the society as it was in his lifetime. He traced the development of the western society throughout centuries.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Thomas Paine: Liberal and Conservative Ideas specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More He revealed wrongs of that society. He also suggested a specific way to develop. He outlined major concepts necessary for the rightful society. It is necessary to note that Paine provided a lot of liberal ideas, but he also remained conservative in some points. All People Are Equal One of major liberal ideas introduced in the work is the idea of equality. Thus, Paine notes that â€Å"[m]ankind being originally equals in the order of creation† could not follow rules based on the principle of inequality (Paine, 2011, n.p.). This is one of the central principles of libe rals. Liberals have postulated that people are created equal and they must share equal opportunities. Paine mentions the royal family and notes that the very existence of the king in the society is a sign of its being wrongful. Paine claims that â€Å"no one by birth could have a right to set up his own family in perpetual preference to all others for ever† (Paine, 2011, n.p.). The author notes that some people deserve a greater degree of honor for some deeds. However, this has nothing to do with the inherited right to enjoy such honor. This belief that all people are created equal makes the work liberal. People Should Elect Their Rulers One more liberal idea revealed in the work is that people should elect their rulers. Paine states that societies cannot be entrusted to a person or a group of people according to the rules of heredity. The author notes that this leads to corruption and usurpation of power. Thus, people who introduce rules should be chosen by the society. Thes e people should be representatives of many groups of the society. Again, this is one of central arguments of liberals who believe that people have the capacity to regulate their lives. In other words, people are free from any outside authority as the rules imposed are created by those who reveal the will of these people.Advertising Looking for critical writing on political sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Remarkably, Paine notes that people should elect their rulers quite often and those elected can have the chance to return into the society to understand the needs of people. According to Paine, this â€Å"frequent interchange will establish a common interest with every part of the community† (Paine, 2011, n.p.). Admittedly, this can also be qualified as a liberal idea. A Conservative Idea However, the idea of certain governance is still conservative. Thus, liberals believe people should be free from any restri ctions as any individual should decide for himherself what is right. At the same time, Paine claims that people tend to live in societies as they cannot live in isolation. Paine also admits that there is â€Å"the necessity of establishing some form of government to supply the defect of moral virtue† (Paine, 2011, n.p.). This idea can be qualified as â€Å"classical conservative† as conservative believe people cannot be free from regulations. Conclusion To sum up, it is possible to note that Paine reveals many liberal ideas in his work. Thus, he states that all people are equal and there can be no hereditary authority. The thinker also claims that people should select those who impose regulations. At the same time, Paine remains conservative in certain points. Thus, he claims that people still need some regulations and governing bodies which can be qualified as a conservative idea. Reference List Paine, T. (2011). Common Sense. Retrieved from http://www.ushistory.org/ This critical writing on Thomas Paine: Liberal and Conservative Ideas was written and submitted by user Quinn I. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.