Category: Literature Essays Templates for Free

“Here begins The Tales of Canterbury …”. This collection is full of intrigue. They shed light on the Middle Ages. In those days, hierarchy, feudalism, chivalry, and order were common. This tale tells the story of 29 people who embark on a pilgrimage. They meet at Tabard Inn. The story’s Host and Narrator proposes that each person tells two stories about the pilgrimage to Canterbury.

Chaucer uses the “…prologue to tell you the story of the character and the degree they have. There were 29 characters in the book, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Chaucer’s candor allows us to see the character in its entirety and the dynamics of the characters. Chaucer’s humor not only points out flaws, but also makes them a fact. Chaucer’s humor does not have the intention of hurting others. It is meant to help people understand who they are and to illustrate their strengths and weaknesses. It is easy to see how Chaucer combines humor and honesty. There are very few examples of characters who display these traits.

The host will also discuss three specific individuals with humor and detail. These are the Squire and Merchant, as well as the Wife of Bath. They all have their own unique characteristics, but the humor they share about their flaws is not straight.

First of all, the young Squire is the knight’s son. The young Squire is a strong, talented, and handsome character. However, all of his energy is focused on the ladies. He is a true gentleman’s man. The description of him is “a lover-lusty bachelor.” Chaucer discusses in detail his strengths and humors the negative aspects of how the squire is using them. He uses them to gain women’s attention. Chaucer closes his description by saying that the Squire was “So hot he love that, while night spun her tales, he never slept more than a nightingale.” It is almost hilarious. This is the son to a distinguished and honorable knight whose strength, courtesy, and charm were used to fight for the lord. However, his son “carves before his father at one table” and is focused on getting his maiden. Chaucer’s ability for identifying the negative in humorous ways helped bring this point home.

The Merchant is next, and he is described in the exact same way. He is described by being dressed up and modern. He has a thick beard and is dressed up in modern clothes. However, the Merchant looks rich and wealthy, and we know that he is very indebted. He borrows money to keep him going, which was considered in medieval England a sign he had poor morals. Chaucer’s humor, in which he says that the Merchant was a “worthy man, withal,” is quite funny.

The Wife to Bath is bold, free-spirited, as we can see from her numerous affairs. Chaucer uses humor to describe this awful trait, creating an oxymoron. He described this trait by saying that “she’d be respectable throughout all her life with five churched spouses bringing joy or strife; but thereof, there’s never need to speak. in truth.” Although the irony is obvious and unmistakable, it was not meant to be said in a mean or harmful way. It was instead made humorous.

This is a great lesson in life. Humor and honesty are closely linked. There will always be flaws in people, but if we highlight them in a harsh way, we can cause havoc and make enemies. Chaucer’s ability is to see both the positives and the negatives so well that characters are able laugh at them, and even agree with them, is remarkable. This is an important advantage when it comes to people skills as well as in everyday life. This attitude, along with humor, can make any negative aspects of our lives more funny.

Life will have many personalities. Each person has their strengths and weaknesses. There is no perfect person. We can look at each person in a positive and different light if we apply the lesson of humor to our lives. Sometimes, we speak to people in a way that seems to offend or make enemies. The truth is that people want to hear it. Learning how to use Chaucer’s humor and truth method in everyday life will allow us to communicate truthfully and not offend others. It does not matter what you say, but how true you are.

It is like being a citizen in the new world of inventions and discoveries, where there is always something new. This knowledge is so vast that even 50 years ago, people couldn’t believe it was possible. We can see the interconnectedness and complexity of our relationships within and outside of our worlds. To be a citizen and part of the rapidly changing world is to be connected to your loved ones through global networks.

Booking a flight is all that’s required to make travel easy. This goes beyond destinations. It also includes speed. In 1912 it took seven days for an ocean liner to travel from Southampton, England to New York. Today, it takes just six hours to fly non-stop from England to New York. Innovation is a catalyst for change and excitement, but it’s also tied to one key element that allows us all to prosper: innovation. Kwame Anthony Appiah argues in his book “Cosmopolitanism” that the stranger should be considered a part of you. He states that every human being should be held responsible. This might seem a lofty goal, but it is achievable. Appiah does not take this lightly and attempts to put realistic limits on subjects that may lack them. Appiah shares his experiences as a citizen of the globe and uses them to help people connect to one another. Appiah’s most important aspect is staying connected through dialogue, ideas, despite opposition. It is easy to understand how Appiah engages with the material in books such as “Cosmopolitanism. Ethics in a World of Strangers”. Appiah makes use of his knowledge of literature as well as history to create an intricate web of moral principles and stories. These historical pieces also reflect his childhood. Appiah, whose British mother was his father and Ghanian mother his mother, has experienced a fascinating upbringing that shaped him as a person. Appiah shares details from both his parents’ heritages and links these facts to the moral ideals he shares in the book. He recalls the Asante region’s capital, Kumasi as a childhood memory. This is all to introduce the word “strangers”. These were people not from the region but from all over the globe. He didn’t ask these people why they traveled so far as a child. But now he knows that “conversations across borders can be fraught” because the stakes are increasing and the world shrinks. He repeatedly reiterates that conversation is what binds people together at the end. Appiah covers many topics in the book but always brings up conversation. In “The Primacy of Practice”, for instance, Appiah states that “practices are more important than principles to allow us all to live in peace.” Although people may not agree on certain issues or moral principles, what allows us all to live together peacefully is the ability to have conversations and get to know each other. Sometimes conversation is used as metaphor to allow others to experience the same thing and also for talking.

Appiah introduces Diogenes to express his views on a global citizenship. As a matter of fact, Aristotle previously identified himself as being from the whole world and not a specific region. Diogenes is the one who first used the term “cosmopolitan”. He replied that he was a citizen from the world, rather than kosmopolites. This is a complete oxymoron. An individual can be a citizen by being part of a specific country, or having different relationships with the state. Scholars all over the globe continue to debate the definition of “global citizen”. The most common definition of a global citizen is “awareness. caring. Embracing cultural diversity. promoting social justice. sustainability. With a sense o o t o act. Although I’m not sure Diogenes thought of this, I digress. Appiah defines cosmopolitanism as the act of accepting cultural diversity. This ideal would be: taking seriously the worth of each person and their lives. This includes acknowledging their beliefs, practices, and gravity. The cosmopolitan recognizes that everyone is different. Appiah recognized this and believed that people should learn from their differences. The whole point of the book was not to force others to become cosmopolitans-this is the mission of counter-cosmopolitans-but instead adopt a pluralist view. Understanding global trends and issues are the first step to recognizing one’s place in the global context. Even though it might be difficult, or even impossible, becoming a global citizen is something that can be done.

Because the cosmopolitan understands all aspects of life, it is not unreasonable to assume that everyone will be able or willing to follow the same path. Appiah states that “cosmopolitans understand that there are many valuable values to live by, but that you don’t have to follow them all.” We all know that humans are flawed and human beings are not perfect. New evidence may challenge what is currently believed. It is the belief of counter-cosmopolitans that there is only one way for humans to live, that the differences must be in the details. They want people join their cause but plan to destroy and kill any differences that we may have. The cosmopolitan is interested in understanding what makes us different and what makes the world look differently. Even though people might learn from those they disagree with, it is possible. You may have the power to decide your destiny, and how you live your life. In contrast, counter-cosmopolitans find that even conversation across differences is precisely what should be discouraged. Conversations with people from different faiths would lead believers astray. They are not curious or surprised at the views of disbelievers. Counter-cosmopolitans have no wish to understand the other side, it is their belief that everyone else is so astronomically wrong, that it is their sole mission to save everyone from themselves.

The people are responsible for deciding what they do with their lives. You decide where to live. It is wrong to force someone to do something they don’t want. Appiah creates a moral code for a world where seven billion people live together. Appiah examines a broad range literature, history, philosophy, and other topics to bring people together in a holistic way. To make his point clear, he shares some of his personal experiences as well as his childhood to share his thoughts and emotions. This book was written with a realistic and humane outlook to help people redefine their moral obligations to one another. Is there anything we owe strangers simply because of our common humanity? It is hard to answer the questions, but you will continue on your way.

Frost employs many techniques to express the emotions, feelings, and poignancy that young children experience in rural America. Frost places great importance on exploring this theme and injecting subtle vocabulary, allegory, syntax, and syntax. He treats it with the same lustre. Frost’s poem depicts a dark and malicious image of an innocent being overpowered by the industrialized world. This theme is a common theme in many of his poems.

Frost immediately conveys the feeling that industry is trying to take over rural life. Frost’s example is: “And it rattled and rattled, snarled & rattled.” Frost immediately conveys the sense that the rural idyll is being encroached upon by industry. Frost explores other themes in the poem. Frost may be commenting on the naivety, shortsightedness, and inadequacy of rural American farmers. Frost is using the events throughout the poem to draw attention to this: “From there, those that lifted eyes could see five mountain ranges.” Frost makes a subtle, but profound, inference about how farmers don’t understand the amazing beauty of nature around them. Instead, they destroy it. Another example is the “No one believed” extract. This shows the child’s ignorance and the stupidity of others who encourage industry. Similar quotes to the above increase the reader’s empathy and their abject dislike for adults. This factor greatly enhances the piece’s emotional impact and increases its effectiveness.

The technical protagonists of conveying these themes are syntax and vocabulary. Frost illustrates this by using childish phrases such as “Big boy doing an adult’s job.” He also reveals how adults are taking away his childhood innocence. Frost seems to have had one primary goal in choosing vocabulary: to emphasize the shortness of the child’s existence. This is evident in the Shakespearian quotation “Out, Out-brief Candle.” It also refers to the insignificance and fragility of life: “No more to add to it.”

The poem also focuses on continuity. It is often expressed through vulgarity and industry. It causes undeniable emotions in the reader. Frost probably resonated with Frost’s very morbid comments on the absurdity and lack of substance in the adult world.

Frost uses an extensive range of advanced techniques to express the actual event. However, Frost’s imagery is what immediately strikes the reader. The metaphoric “meeting” of saw and flesh with the other is also profound. It was not, however, that neither of them refused to meet.” This suggests that the boy is suicidal, but it also allegorically shows a willful merging two opposing ways of living.

Despite appearing simple and boring at first, Frost slowly unveils a new piece of poetry. It is a comment suitable for many of his other works.

Emily Dickinson, one of America’s most interesting poets, is undoubtedly the best. Her eyes are eerily detached and reflect her private life in Amherst Massachusetts. She lives a very quiet existence, but her powerful poetry allows her to express her inner thoughts. She is passionate about themes like death, depression, despair, individual ability, and poetry. The poems reveal her thoughts, but it is difficult for us to know what she was thinking because her poetry is so mysterious. Similar to her other recurring themes, Christianity remains the least consistent of Dickinson’s poetry.

It is well-known that Dickinson stopped going to church as a child and quit Mount Holyoke Female Seminary when she was unable to accept the concept of Original Sin (Conarroe 74) at a young age. Dickinson “resisted local religious revivals that were being held by family members or friends.” . . “Involved” (884). Dickinson includes central Christian themes throughout her poetry, despite having a dislike for revivals. Dickinson often uses Biblical references like “Because Your Face/Would put out Jesus” (22-23) or “The Brain is just God’s weight- ” (5). It is also notable that “She loved to read the Bible,” and a variety of other great writers’ works. ‘” (Conarroe 73). Her form and meter also mimic the hymnal ballads she has heard all her life. Although it is difficult to discern her views on Christianity, there are both. Dickinson’s stance on Christianity is not immediately obvious. She encourages readers to read her poetry and find more evidence. The speaker speaks with a loss of faith and its transformation. First line: “Faith, a fine invention,” (1) Dickinson suggests “faith” can refer to the pure belief in God. However, it is now an “invention”(1), meaning that it is man-made, and not sacred. The two lines “Faith can be a fine invention / When Gentlemen see-” (1-2), suggest that it is impossible for men or humans to see. This makes man-made faith not so “fine”. The third line starts with “But Microscopes Are Prudent” (3). Dickinson claims that people who are looking at Christianity from a microscope can often miss the big picture. Dickinson could be criticizing how people focus so much on Christianity’s doctrines and not having faith that God. Dickinson doesn’t agree with the church on Original Sin. But she still seeks spiritual solace away of the family pew. The poem’s final lines contain her pleading with Christians to stop spending their lives gazing down at microscopes and look up to God. Dickinson criticizes what man makes of “Faith,” and not God herself, in this poem.

Another Dickinson poem, “I can’t live with You-,” is a love letter, perhaps addressed to Rev. Charles Wadsworth, whom she seems have shared a close personal relationship (884). Although the poem is filled with tender words, which she longs for, it can be interpreted in many different ways. You can view this poem as Dickinson’s Christ-love poem. Dickinson might also be using Dickinson’s imagery of Christ’s radiant face in her lover’s hands. She could also be using it to mean that her lover is revealing Christ’s face. She speaks to Christ in this reading, as though He were her lover. She expresses grief at not being able be with Him. Dickinson begins the first stanza by saying,

You are the only person I can live with.

It would be life-changing.

The good news is that life is ending.

Behind the Shelf (1-4). Dickinson associates Christ with life, as Christ did in John 14, 6:6. The shelf could also be a symbol of religion. Interesting that she used the shelf image to distinguish Christ from herself, as shelves are often filled with books which are symbols for human understanding and knowledge. Dickinson may be implying human reason and interpretation have stood in God and mankind’s way.

Dickinson wrote in the second line that Sexton kept the Key to-/ Putting up / His Life-His Porcelain” (5-8). Dickinson compares man to Christ’s porcelain. This is something precious and fragile, which she considers Christ’s. She also points out the fact that the sexton is a church official who performs the menial duties of church. Dickinson used the image of a sexton as a symbol to indicate that Christianity’s dogmatic doctrines have destroyed man’s belief system in God.

Dickinson references Christ’s crucifixion, in the fourth and sixth stanzas, respectively. She is expressing regret that she was not able to die with Him or resurrect with Him by using the literal meaning of putting forth/revealing one’s faces. She longs and desires to be with Christ.

These lines have a distinct tone of guilt, the guilt at not being able fully to believe all of the Christian doctrines. She calls Christ.

They would judge us-

How-

For you-

Heaven’s Best

You already know this:

Or sought-to-

(29-32)It’s true that Rev. Charles Wadsworth served God but it is true that Rev. Dickinson continues looking for Christ in the eleventh verse. He is described as the definition of hell by Dickinson. “And I-condemned to be/ Where You weren’t-/ That self-were Hell to me-” (41-44)

Dickinson comes to the realization that Christ and her cannot meet on earth due to the inconsistencies between Christ’s teachings and her own. “So We must separate- / You are there- I am here- ” (45–46). She decides that she must keep the door or communication between them open as wide as possible. “With just The Door open / That Oceans-and-and-Prayer- ” (47-48). She also mentions her despair at the Christian doctrine’s confusion that keeps her from turning to God for spiritual comfort.

These poems provide a fascinating insight into Dickinson’s beliefs about Christ and religion. The passionate monologue she speaks to her lover about the last poem is a clear indication of the clear distinction Dickinson makes between her belief and God’s faith. She longs for Christ throughout the poem, but finally admits that Christian truths will never be found on Earth. She may feel uncertain about the future, and so she uses the dash a lot. This effectively suspends her from the truth.

Conarroe, Joel. “Title of Work.” Date of Publication. Six American authors who write poetry. Vintage Books published a work on New York in 1991.

Is it only for the enjoyment of his readers that an author writes? Sometimes authors use literature to express their views on a particular topic. One topic that might be included is racial/ethnic discrimination. We can see how authors use literatures such as “Walk Well, My Brother”, and “Lark Song” to express their opinions on racism.

Farley Mowat’s 1951 book “Walk Well, My Brother” focuses on racism against Eskimos. You can see the racism in Charlie Lavery as his story unfolds. He is a discriminator against Konala throughout her entire life. Lavery is bitter and thinks Konala is useless. “What an idiot he’d been taking her aboard atall… now she wasn’t a bloody albatross around him neck.” (Mowat. 171). Mowat shows that one’s experiences can change your opinions on something. Charlie is thankful to Konala that she saved his own life. “Lavery watched her slowly and he began to see that what seemed like a dead desert was actually a land that supports those who know its nature.” (Mowat 177). Charlie Lavery, dressed in caribou skin clothing and with his hair loosely hanging off his shoulders, marks the extreme of his changes. Farley Mowat believes anyone can change their opinions about someone, even if they are racist. One can see this happening in “Walk Well, My Brother”. Mowat shares the same thoughts about racism as in “Walk Well, My Brother”, and W. P. Kinsella outlines his views in his essay, entitled “Lark Song”. Silas Ermineskin, the narrator, discusses how white people have a racist attitude towards Indians. “White people don’t enjoy anyone touching their children, especially Indians.” (Kinsella. 115). Even the government and RCMP are involved in Joseph Ermineskin’s rescue of a little girl from white who has fallen and is crying. Joseph Ermineskin is severely mentally disabled, but he wouldn’t even hurt a fly. The government, RCMP, and RCMP all know that Joseph is mentally disabled, but they don’t want to put him on charges. Instead, they just hate Indians. Therefore, they find another way they can punish Joseph. “It sounds funny. It is like a summer bird singing in the morning. It came again, the sweet, bubbly, blue sky-colored song of a lark. I do laugh, but I do so for happiness. I throw the wood on to the ground and race for the meadow. (Kinsella, 120). Kinsella uses that quote to demonstrate his beliefs about the ability of mentally challenged people to think for themselves. Joseph escapes an institution mental hospital and finds his way home. The movie’s producer decides that real Indians would be more beneficial for him. The advantages of using real Indians were evident. Indians provided authenticity and a substantial savings. Their natural pigmentation …; national horsemanship …; the possessions of horses …; as well as their natural talent for creating art… all would contribute to lowering production costs.” (Johnston 70). He has a stereotypical view of Indians, and he doesn’t mind showing it. “‘Now chief. We need 500 warriors. 500 horses. Bows and Arrows. Maybe fifty or more rifles. Feathers, head-dresses. Buckskin jackets. And… buckskin leggings. Four to five people can make designs on horses. Basil Johnston shows how the producer reacts to learning that Indians don’t live as he believes. “This was amazing…I can’t believe… No horses…can’t ride…no buckskin…no…no teepees…no…no moccasins…no…no hair-dresses…and…probably…not even loin-cloths …’ and that he was quivering.” Johnston (73). But he continues to pursue his idea of real Indians being used in the movie. It proves to have been a huge success.

Johnston, Kinsella, Mowat, and Kinsella voice their opinions regarding racial and ethno-stigmating in “Walk Well, My Brother”, and other titles. Racism is a popular topic in literature. In order to address the important issues of society, authors sometimes write in a way that is more entertaining or uplifting than just creating a mood.

Sharon Olds is an author who is known for changing the direction and voice of her poems quickly and without warning. Her poem “I Go back to May 1937” is a perfect example of this. Olds’ direct style allows her to clearly communicate her message, while her creative and sometimes surprising use imagery keep her delivery interesting and engaging. “I Go Back to May 37” is about a young girl who imagines her parents as they were when she was born. She can see how they have changed over the years. Although the reader could have warned them about the pain they would face in the future, and urged them to end their marriage before it began, she can’t do that as it would mean her life being ended. Acceptance is the only way to reverse what has already occurred. Olds uses powerful language and striking imagery to demonstrate the truth of the past. Olds opens her poem with an impartial reminiscence. She describes her father “strolling out/under the ochre-sandstone arch” in front of the college’s gates (line 2-3). Her father is shown confidently, stepping out to face his future without fear or reservation. This is the kind of start one would expect in an optimistic coming-of-age story. Olds’ description of the red tiles glowing like plates of blood/bent behind her head takes an unexpected turn (lines 4-5). Olds’ bold use and diction in describing something so simple as campus architecture is an indication of how the speaker intends to portray her father. Her mother isn’t confidently walking towards her future, in stark contrast to her father. She stands stationary in front a gate. She can see both her past as well as her future. But she isn’t sure if it is possible to move between them. She’s not standing beside a “sandstone arch”, as the speaker said, but a delicately constructed column made of small bricks. It could be a symbol of her complicated emotions about this moment in her life. The paper’s most crucial point is the next few lines. The speaker expresses her emotions about her parents’ future union. I want to approach them and tell them “Stop!” (lines 10-15). It is easier for a child to be independent if they grow up without a mother figure or father. “I want you to stop talking to me” (Olds) This short story explains that children who grow up without a father or mother figure will have trouble having fun in the future. This is due to the fact that one’s identity may be distorted and detached from the rest of the family. This poem is about the speaker. She has a special role. She can see the past of her parents and make judgments about them. This marriage, and this graduation, she sees as being at the edge of the cliff. This decision is the start of a long descent through misery and pain. Olds has capitalized the word “Stop” at line 13 to emphasize its importance. This signifies an absolute stop that is necessary to prevent injury and harm, similar to the stop sign at the street (Galens). After emphasizing her innocence and warning them about their grim future, the speaker continues to speak unabatedly to them. I want to speak to them in the late spring sunlight. (lines 16-20). She is extremely clear in her assessment of the marriage. She described it as a place of sorrow and despair. The speaker is furious at both the couple and herself for allowing their relationship to become a monster. The speaker has no choice but to accept the problems that come with it. The speaker’s anger fades when she realizes that the situation is hopeless. I want life” (Olds 20). Olds’ use diction is crucial to understand the message she wants to convey. The faces of lovers are described by Olds with renewed sense and resolve. The woman’s face displays a “hunger” and a desire for new opportunities. The man’s “arrogant”, a smug expression of his ignorance, emphasizes the fact that they don’t know all the consequences of their choices and whether they have the right reasons (Metzger). Olds uses syntax to show the reader that the couple is lacking passion and love. Olds repeats “pitiful and beautiful untouched bodies”, but separates them with a description of the man’s features. Olds wants readers to understand that, even though they are getting married (Galens), they are still apart and far away from one another. At the end of the video, Olds shows her anger and helplessness. It’s not until the last few words that the speaker admits she is in despair and deals with her situation. “I take their hands like the paper dolls. They are like little children trying to imagine a happy ending. She has control over the dolls’ future. She recognizes that her parents cannot change their past. She accepts that her current situation is the result of that. But she ultimately decides to take control of the future. She is aware that she can’t create that fire, passion, or love by “banging their hips together” (line 27). She admits she cannot control her parents’ affairs, even though it affects her life greatly. She is not able to make them change or stop future pain. The speaker is free to look at her unsolved problems in a new way and not fix them all. Works Cited Metzger Sheri. “Critical Essay On ‘I Go back to May 1937’.” Poetry For Students. Ed. David A. Galens. Vol. 17. Detroit: Gale, 2003. Information on authors and literary works can be found in the Literature Resource Center. Web. 29 Oct. 2012. Olds, Sharon. Poetry Foundation. N.p.. Web. October 29th, 2012.

. Poetry for students. Ed. David A. Galens. Vol. 17. Detroit: Gale, 2003. The Literature Resource Center provides literary references. Web. 29 Oct. 2012.

Table of Contents

This is the opening of my paper.

The Merchant of Venice is a prime example of mercy

In conclusion

Here is an introduction

Canada does away with the death penalty. Our justice system spares the lives of even the most serious criminals and shows mercy. Even today, death penalty is still an option in certain cases in countries such as the USA. It is shocking to see that even though we have been taught mercy for many years, we still don’t show it. Even Shakespeare knew that mercy was a virtue. This is illustrated by Shakespeare’s great play The Merchant of Venice. The play’s main theme is mercy. His characters repeatedly remind us that mercy is the only way to get mercy. This is illustrated with Lancelot asking for forgiveness from his father, Portia and Nerissa forgiving their husbands after they have given away their rings and Shylock forgiving Antonio but not receiving mercy.

The Merchant of Venice is a play that shows mercy. Lancelot asks his father forgiveness. Gobbo, the father of Lancelot, is sandblind, and cannot recognize his son when they cross each other in Venice. Lancelot realizes this and decides that he will play with his father. Gobbo attempts to ask Lancelot where his son lives. Lancelot tricks his father by telling him that he’s dead. This creates a negative impression on Gobbo. Lancelot then kneels before his father and asks for his blessing …”. (Shakespeare, 82). Lancelot’s father may have been laughing at him, but he still feels the need for forgiveness. Gobbo continues to help his son obtain a job with Bassanio. The relationship between them is strong again because Gobbo showed mercy. He clearly demonstrated that mercy is essential. Both gave their husbands Bassanio Gratiano and Nerissa rings, and made sure they never lost them. They are then given the rings to save Antonio when they arrive in Venice disguised for work. Bassanio, Gratiano and their wives don’t realize that the lawyers they are bringing to Venice disguised as lawyers. But they do give them those rings. Their wives await them when they return home to Belmont. Portia tells Nerissa that she will give him the rings and ask him to keep them better than the others (Shakespeare 46). This shows that men are not obligated to keep their rings. However, they can forgive the men and give them back the rings. Portia, Nerissa and their wonderful marriages are rewarded in the end.

Shylock is not kind to Antonio and does not offer mercy, but expects his mercy when he finds himself in a difficult position. Shylock is the central conflict in this play. He owes Antonio one pound. The Jew is refused by Venice’s people. He refuses to accept any money offered. After Portia arrives and explains to Shylock why he cannot forfeit his forfeiture to him, Antonio is ultimately the one who decides the fate of the antagonist. He has two options. He can let him go as though nothing ever happened or he can take half of his fortune to give to the city. He chooses to take the money and kill Shylock, which is evident because he was willing to die for it. Antonio then asks for mercy. He begs Antonio to give him at least a fraction his fortune. Antonio responds that he will pray for mercy even if he renders none (Shakespeare 135). Shylock is told by Antonio that he could have shown mercy to Antonio and given him the money from Bassanio. He would probably spare Antonio and allow him to keep at minimum a small portion of his Fortune. Shylock knew that Antonio was going to be hurt and that he would not allow him to go. Antonio is therefore free to show mercy. We also know that Antonio isn’t a bad person and is not going to take revenge on anyone who has wronged him. But in this case, the foe was prepared to do anything to get him killed. The merchant forgets his mercy and takes Shylock’s belongings with him. Shakespeare’s play demonstrates the importance and value of mercy. It shows that Antonio would have been able to receive mercy from Shylock if he had shown mercy.

These arguments are clear evidence that mercy is an important theme in The Merchant of Venice. First, Lancelot asks for forgiveness from his father and later they work together on Bassanio. Portia & Nerissa both forgive the husbands they gave away their rings. This makes it possible for them to maintain their marriage through all of their difficulties. Shylock refuses to show mercy when Antonio is offered the money several times. Antonio accepts half the money and the remainder goes to Venice. All three cases showed that those who were kind and generous received mercy and lived prosperous lives. Those who refused to show mercy suffered the same fate. Abraham Lincoln once said that mercy has more fruits than strict law.

We see the moon every day. But if it could talk, it’d tell stories longer than humans. The moon has been mysterious since the beginning of time. The moon’s beauty captures our attention with its bright light and different phases. Robert Hayden’s Full Moon (not only the poem), but also the stanzas, rhyme schemes, and their mode make it a unique piece of literature. Hayden’s rhyme structure is fascinating because it doesn’t have one. This poem is free verse. It has non-metrical, non-rhyming lines that closely follow a natural rhythm. Although most lines are free verses do not naturally rhyme, poets often don’t use a metrical scheme in their poems. Hayden’s lines have 3 lines. “The emphatic lunar rises-a brilliant challenger for rocket experts, and the white hope of communication men. ” (4-6). The three lines that make up the stanzas have different lengths with no meter and each other. Writing poetry is only as good as its structure. Without it, it’s only a fragment.

Full Moon, a poem that lacks structure, is very interesting. Hayden follows the English standards for punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and capitalization in his stanzas. His capitalization style is not what you would usually read. Hayden’s capitalization can be used in an unpredicted or mandatory way. The Standards of English require that Hayden capitalizes both the nouns and sentences’ first words. The rule of thumb when writing is not to use conjunctions such as ‘And’ or ‘But’. However, this rule has been broken by many writers and play-wrights throughout history. It feels natural and almost conversational. “And was burned in the Garden of Gethsemane.” (13) and “And spread its radiant light along the exile’s paths” (16). Hayden capitalizes nonfictional and fictional characters like Mother Goose. Although he also refers to Jesus as His holiness, he only capitalizes his to indicate possession. “And spread their radiance along the exile’s pathsof Him Who was The GloriousOne. Its light made holy and holy by His Holiness. ” (16-18). Each stanza has three lines of between 15 and 20 words. Hayden’s seven and twenty-one lines consist of just three lines each. The content is compact and can fit onto a single page. The poem’s form is narrative. Hayden’s narrative explains that humanity, like those before it, has become less interested in the moon as time goes by. He says that warring nations have become more commonplace, and that the goal of a full moon dominating the darkness is now mooted. “(19-21).And maybe, someday, full moon will be an operational base that can be militarized. It could become an “arms base.” “No longer a throne of goddess to whom we prey,” (1) After gazing at the moon, many people would dream about it. Farmers believed the moonlight would tell them when to plant and harvest crops. This line establishes the tone of the poem. It’s a quiet and solemn poem. Hayden recounts the history of the moon, and also retells historical events. Hayden’s poem centers on the idea that the moon is older than time, starting with Christ’s death and ending with the NASA moon landing of 1960s. The moon used to be a goddess looking over the night sky. It was believed to have been a source of hope and inspiration for many. “The emphatic, bright moon rises-a brilliant challenger for rocket experts and the white hope to communications men. It spread its light on the path of exile. ” (1,4-6,16-18)

His poem contains references to historical figures, poetic works, and religious figures. The Mother Goose Nursery Rhymes are mentioned in the second- and third lines. There are other allusions to historical figures, such as the NASA Apollo team that made the first lunar landing. Not only does it refer to us but also the NASA Apollo team. Every day we have an impact on history. It is important that our children can see the past so they can benefit from it in the future. We leave little traces of the past so we can share them with our children. “Some people that I love are dead were always watching the moon. They trimmed their hair and planted seeds. It shines tonight on their graves. ” (7-12) Yeshua, aka Jesus Christ, is the other historical figure he refers too. The poem’s tone is casual and the style has simple vocabulary. Hayden’s language use and free verse flow make “Full Moon” an informal poem. It is unlike any formal poetry. Hayden doesn’t adhere to the formal rhyme stanza rules.

The poem’s theme is the place the moon has played in human history and the changes that have occurred to its meaning over time. Hayden noted that the moon was often seen as mythical. Therefore, line 1 reads, “No longer the throne a goddess to who we pray. (1) And the moon will be there long after we’ve gone. I believe the overall meaning is that there will always be something significant in the sky until the end. Although I could have come up with many interpretations of the poem, this was my favorite.

Carol Anne Duffy’s poems “Prayer,” and “Confession” present two different views of religion. In “Prayer,” Duffy examines how comfort can come from ordinary, routine occurrences, instead of organized religion. These seemingly insignificant events are instead used to provide consolation for the unidentified people mentioned in the poem. These works are also influenced by the poet’s childhood memories of Confession. Duffy clearly found this form devotion to be a terrifying and oppressive experience.

“Prayer” refers to a secularized version of traditional religious prayers, and is written as a sonnet. It is a poem by Duffy that aims to show people without religious beliefs how they can find peace in their everyday lives. Duffy represents the secular community through the unidentified people in the poem. We can also see Duffy herself as part of this group by Duffy’s use of the pronouns “we” and “us,” which show that the work was written by Duffy. The poem refers to the absence of religion in the lines ‘although they cannot pray’ or ‘although they are faithless’. However, it does not mention religion as a source of consolation. People can find comfort through their memories and appreciation for the small things in everyday life. These consolation moments are mentioned throughout the poem. The poem contains many references to these moments of consolation. Duffy tells us about a man that hears the distant Latin-chanting train. His memories are triggered by sounds, and he is then cheered up by them. The poet speaks of a lodger who is soothed by the ‘Grade 1 piano scores’. Perhaps their child was learning to play the piano. These small daily events can provide solace. It conveys a sense that this fear and pain are inevitable and is normal. Duffy also speaks of discomfort and fear in the poem. The next line contrasts with the more comfortable ‘radio’s Prayer’ inside. The familiarity and safety that the radio inside’ provides suggests that we are protected from the world’s ‘darkness’ by these comforts. The poem is finished with a couplet of rhyming rhymes and an excerpt from the shipping forecast, Rockall. Malin. Dogger. Finisterre. This phrase conveys comfort. Another possible reference to the small and familiar ways that familiar things can help us stay safe in the dark is the shipping forecast. It helps us navigate home when we are lost.

“Confession,” a new way to view religion, is called this. Duffy discusses her own experience with traditional religion as well as her childhood experience of going to confession. Catholics are required to attend the Sacrement of Penance in Catholicism. This is where they will confess their sins and receive absolution. Duffy was raised Catholic but became an atheist in his teens. Contrary to “Prayer,” where faith can provide comfort, this poem depicts religion as oppressive and frightening. Duffy describes the ‘dark cells’ and the smell it emits, which have connotations of death or imprisonment. ‘Tell’ is used to suggest interrogation. While darkness is used in prayer to emphasize the comfort of the inside, it is also used in a nonthreatening manner in ‘Prayer’. However, Duffy’s poem uses darkness in a menacing way -‘musty darkness,’ ‘dark cells. This gives the impression Penance is a controlling, repressive experience. This sentiment is evident both in the simile works your consciencelike a glove puppet’ as well as in the phrase merely to imagine a wrong’s just as horrible as actually doing it.

Duffy might have said that “Confession” was Duffy’s declaration of her belief that religion doesn’t always provide comfort and reassurance. Instead, it causes fear and discomfort. Duffy’s poem suggests that to seek ‘Jesus’ love, you need to restrict your thoughts and act in the ‘approved manner. Duffy would not have known how to get there as a child. Duffy’s “Prayer” focuses on how there are no limitations and how an appreciation of nature can be a source of solace.

Fiction can take us to places that are only possible for our imaginations when we read it. These stories can teach us valuable lessons. These lessons are often ones that we don’t see in our daily lives. These are ethical values, and Beowulf demonstrates them. An Anglo-Saxon poem entitled Beowulf describes a warrior who defeats three frightening monsters. This epic poem is a masterpiece. Beowulf is backed up by many stories. His adventures earn him respect. As he challenges us, we see many of his adventures. He is tested and proves himself to be strong each time. He was elected king. His kingdom is one that believes in him. This essay will focus on how the narrator conjures themes like honor, heroism, and the use literary devices: imagery and alliteration.

Beowulf is not just a great leader, but also extremely determined. He is trustworthy, noble, and well-trained with many skills. His actions are a sign of his strength. The poem contains three main encounters that illustrate Beowulf’s grit. Unfearth approaches Beowulf when he arrives at Heorot and asks him questions about the race. He continued his conversation, saying that any accomplishments he made before were meaningless because he would be unable to defeat Grendel. This was because he believed that Grendel would defeat him like all the great warriors before him. He is determined to match Grendel and bring back peace to Heorot. “It was hard for me to ignore Grendel’s news. I received it from my family: sailors had brought stories about the terrible conditions you endured in this hall. The tales of how it became deserted and useless when the night light disappeared under the heavens dome. Now, I’m going to match Grendel. Let’s settle the matter in single combat.” He says that he doesn’t fear death. This gives him the strength to conquer. This allowed him defeat Grendel. The king was very proud of this feat. He took this task because he wanted everyone to see that he was unlike any other soldier before him. Beowulf is not afraid of the negative, despite all that. Beowulf is fighting to exact revenge on Grendel’s actions towards the Danes. Grendel terrorized Danes twelve times over. Beowulf had a great heart and was willing to fight for innocents. Grendel was defeated when he stormed his castle. Grendel was wounded when he grabbed his sword. As he reached his cave, he died. Through his brave actions, Beowulf displayed heroic qualities throughout the whole poem. His mother was furious after Grendel’s death. His mother was angry at Beowulf’s death and began to ruin the city. Grendel’s mom wants revenge on her son’s murder. Herot is attacked and one of her advisors is killed in exchange. Grendel’s mother is the next target of Beowulf, who wants to avenge her death. He pursued her. He got closer to her, and she attacked him. He was close to killing her when she attacked him. He tried to sever her neck, but it failed. He found a sword which was capable of cutting her throat and defeating her. He also did this to bring peace to Herot. This was also the reason that he killed Grendel. His final battle was however more personal. He felt he needed to defeat this dragon to maintain his kingly resilience. His many accomplishments meant that he didn’t require an army. He ordered his subjects not to rush to him so that he could show them again that he was capable of winning any battle. “For the first time, Beowulf was not the victor in battle.” He was prepared for the fight but was able defeat the last monster. Beowulf was killed by the dragon during the battle. Beowulf was killed by the dragon in the fight. He was thankful for his people. He was a leader among them. This showed his worth enough for him to be allowed to ascend to the throne. He was able to prove himself many times. These literary devices are essential in anglo-saxon poetry. This makes it necessary for characters to show their worth to others. It is possible that they have had many experiences that led to their behavior. Beoulf, for example, says that he “swam in darkness hunting monsters” during his lifetime. These stories helped him become the hero he is today. Every threat to his kingdom puts him at risk. Because it is noble, he travels to defeat monsters. Beowulf fights rendel, as we have already mentioned. He doesn’t take a sword. He is courageous and shows his grit by not carrying a sword to fight Grendel. Beowulf was able defeat the monster and retain his warrior status. His courage is displayed in the imagery that he used to show it. He didn’t give up on the challenge. He faced all the challenges without any help. This was one of the ways he was capable to overcome the many obstacles he faced throughout his poem. Both devices are integral to Beowulf’s character.

The emotions that are expressed in this story, even though they are fiction, such emotions as bravery, courage, and valor still speak to our hearts today. We can see that Beowulf is a diligent man. As he arrives at the kingdom, he has many stories. Grendel defeats him, and he later kills Grendel’s mother. He finally faces the dragon, his last opponent, and loses. He didn’t lose, but the way he approached the dragon was the point. He is determined to serve and protect his kingdom. The only way he knows how to defeat any monster that threatens his kingdom’s good people is by serving his country. His courage was forged through alliteration and imagery. This is a common Anglo Saxon trait the main character possesses. Both draw pictures so the reader can feel right with Beowulf while he travels. We explore Herot’s side and it opens up the door to Herot.