Answer all questions.Section A(i) political debates of 17th century england
the political debates of 17th century england were marked by significant ideological and religious divisions. The central themes of these debates revolved around the nature of power, government, and the rights of individuals. One of the major debates was between those who believed in absolute monarchy, where the king had complete control over the government and the people, and those who believed in limited monarchy, where the king's power was restricted by laws and the rights of individuals were protected.Another major debate was between those who supported the church of england, with its hierarchy and the king as its head, and those who supported puritanism, a more radical form of protestantism that sought to eliminate the church's hierarchical structure and replace it with a more democratic model.
The political debates of the 17th century had far-reaching consequences for england and the world. The english civil war (1642-1651) was a direct result of these debates, as the country was split into two factions, the royalists (cavaliers) and the parliamentarians (roundheads), with each side fighting for control of the government. The outcome of the war, the execution of king charles i, and the establishment of the commonwealth marked a turning point in english history and paved the way for the eventual restoration of the monarchy. The debates of the 17th century also influenced the development of democratic and liberal thought, which would play a significant role in the formation of modern western political systems.
(ii) satire in new classical age.
Satire was an important aspect of the new classical age, also known as the enlightenment, which took place in europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries. During this time, satire was used to criticize and challenge the political, social, and religious norms of the time. Satirists sought to expose the flaws and absurdities of their society and to promote change by poking fun at those in power and their actions.
One of the most famous satirists of the new classical age was jonathan swift, who wrote "gulliver's travels, " a satirical work that mocked the political and social institutions of the time. Swift used the story of a man who travels to various lands and encounters different societies as a way to critique the excesses and follies of his own.
Satire was also a means for writers to express their own political and personal beliefs without fear of punishment. For example, the french playwright moliere used his works to attack the hypocrisy and corruption of the french nobility and the catholic church. His works, such as "tartuffe, " used humor to expose the excesses and vices of those in power.The use of satire in the new classical age was a reflection of the broader intellectual and cultural changes taking place during this time. The enlightenment was characterized by a spirit of reason and free thought, and satire was a way for writers to challenge the status quo and to promote change through laughter. As such, it played an important role in the intellectual and cultural life of the time and helped to shape the ideas and values that continue to influence our world today.
(iii) features of restoration comedy
restoration comedy is a genre of drama that emerged in england during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, following the restoration of the monarchy in 1660. This style of comedy was characterized by several key features:
sexual intrigue: restoration comedies often revolved around romantic misunderstandings, sexual pursuits, and witty banter between characters. The plays often dealt with the sexual and social escapades of the upper classes and the witty repartee between characters was an essential element of the genre.
Bawdy humor: restoration comedies were known for their bawdy humor and sexual innuendo, which was often seen as a reflection of the libertine culture of the time.
Romantic idealism: despite their bawdy humor, restoration comedies often celebrated romantic love and idealized relationships. The plays often featured idealized versions of love and courtship, and the resolution of the play often involved the union of two lovers.
Satire: restoration comedies were often satirical in nature, poking fun at the manners and customs of the upper classes and the society as a whole. The plays were a reflection of the changing attitudes and values of the time and provided a critique of the political and social norms of the era.
Restoration spectacles: restoration comedies often featured grand spectacles, including elaborate sets, costumes, and music. These spectacles were an important part of the theatrical experience and were designed to captivate and delight audiences.
Restoration comedies were a major part of the cultural life of the time and were performed in theaters throughout england. The genre continues to be popular today, and many of the plays are still performed and adapted for modern audiences. The legacy of restoration comedy can be seen in the work of many modern playwrights and filmmakers, who continue to be influenced by its witty humor, romantic idealism, and social satire.
(iv) broad features of literature in the long 18th century.
The "long 18th century" refers to the period from 1660 to 1800, a time of great literary achievement and artistic expression in europe and north america. The following are some of the broad features of literature during this period:
enlightenment ideas: literature during the long 18th century reflected the influence of enlightenment ideas, including reason, science, and individualism. Many writers sought to challenge traditional ideas and institutions and promote the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice.
Realism: literature during the long 18th century emphasized realism and a focus on everyday life and human experience. This was reflected in works such as samuel richardson's "pamela, " which depicted the lives of ordinary people and their struggles.Satire: satire was a popular form of literature during the long 18th century, used by writers to criticize the political and social norms of the time. Works such as alexander pope's "the rape of the lock" and jonathan swift's "a tale of a tub" used wit and humor to expose the absurdities of society.
Romanticism: the late 18th century saw the emergence of romanticism, a literary movement that emphasized emotion, imagination, and the beauty of nature. Works such as william wordsworth's "i wandered lonely as a cloud" and samuel taylor coleridge's "the rime of the ancient mariner" celebrated the power of the imagination and the beauty of nature.Sensibility: sensibility, or the emphasis on sensitivity and emotion, was a major trend in literature during the long 18th century. Works such as laurence sterne's "tristram shandy" and henry fielding's "tom jones" explored the emotional lives of their characters and the complexities of human experience.
The literature of the long 18th century was diverse and reflected the changing cultural, social, and political landscape of the time. The works produced during this period continue to be widely read and studied today, and their influence can be seen in the literature and culture of the modern world.
Section banswer the following in about 300 words each: 4 x 7.5 = 30
1. Critical comment on the binarisation of the savage and the civilized in defoes crusoe. Does the story also blur this rigid binarisation sometimes ?
Daniel defoe's "robinson crusoe" is a classic example of the binary opposition between the "savage" and the "civilized. " in the novel, the distinction between the two is often used to emphasize the superiority of the "civilized" over the "savage. " crusoe's initial encounter with friday, a native of the island he is stranded on, sets up a clear contrast between the two characters. Crusoe is portrayed as a "civilized" european with a strong sense of morality and religion, while friday is depicted as a "savage" who is primitive and uncivilized.
However, the novel also blurs this rigid binarization at times. For example, crusoe's initial impression of friday is that he is a "monster, " but as he gets to know the native more, he realizes that friday is actually a good and intelligent person. Through his relationship with friday, crusoe comes to understand that the distinctions between the "savage" and the "civilized" is not as clear-cut as he once thought.
Furthermore, the novel also explores the idea that the "civilized" are not always morally superior to the "savage. " crusoe, who is portrayed as the epitome of "civilization, " is shown to be cruel and greedy at times. He enslaves friday, takes advantage of the native's labor, and uses his wealth and power to dominate the island. In contrast, friday is portrayed as being kind and generous, despite his lack of "civilization. "
overall, "robinson crusoe" challenges the notion of the "savage" and the "civilized" being fixed and binary categories. The novel highlights the complexity of human nature and the fluidity of cultural and moral values. It suggests that the distinction between the "savage" and the "civilized" is not absolute and that individuals from different cultures and backgrounds can have both positive and negative traits. The novel's nuanced exploration of these themes makes it a valuable contribution to the discourse on colonialism and cultural differences.
2. Does swift help us question the binary between a man and an animal in gullivers travels? Comment.
Jonathan swift's "gulliver's travels" is a satirical work that questions the binary between man and animal in several ways. Through its portrayal of the different societies that gulliver encounters, the novel challenges the idea of a clear and unchanging divide between the two.One of the ways in which swift questions the binary is by depicting the relationships between the humans and animals in the various societies gulliver visits. In the land of the houyhnhnms, horses are depicted as the ruling class and humans are treated as inferior animals. This inversion of the traditional hierarchy between man and animal challenges the idea of a clear-cut difference between the two and suggests that the distinction is not absolute.
Additionally, the novel also questions the binary through its portrayal of the different human societies gulliver visits. For example, the inhabitants of the floating island of laputa are depicted as intellectually superior, but emotionally and morally deficient. This portrayal challenges the idea that the human species is inherently superior to animals and suggests that humans, like animals, can have both positive and negative traits.
Furthermore, swift also uses the character of gulliver to question the binary. Gulliver's reactions to the different societies he visits highlight his own biases and preconceptions about the nature of man and animal. Through his interactions with the various societies, gulliver comes to realize that the distinctions between the two is not as clear as he once thought.
In conclusion, "gulliver's travels" is a work that questions the binary between man and animal. Through its portrayal of different societies and the character of gulliver, the novel challenges the idea of a clear and unchanging distinction between the two and highlights the complexities of human nature and cultural differences.
3. What role and purpose does mrs. Fainall serve in the play the way of the world?
In william congreve's play "the way of the world," mrs. Fainall serves a significant role in advancing the plot and highlighting key themes of the play.
Mrs. Fainall is the wife of mirabell and the former mistress of sir wilfull witwoud. She is portrayed as a cunning and manipulative character who is driven by her desire for money and social status. Her past relationship with sir wilfull is a central aspect of the play and serves to highlight the theme of sexual manipulation and exploitation in the upper classes of society.
Mrs. Fainall's role in the play is crucial in advancing the plot, as she is involved in the scheme to secure her husband's fortune. She conspires with mirabell to deceive sir wilfull and foible into thinking that she is still in love with sir wilfull. This deception sets into motion a series of events that lead to the resolution of the play.
Furthermore, mrs. Fainall's character also serves the purpose of illustrating the societal pressures faced by women in the 18th century. Her desire for money and social status is a result of the limited options available to women in a male-dominated society. Through her character, congreve critiques the societal norms that restrict women and highlights the ways in which they are forced to manipulate and exploit others in order to secure their own futures.
In conclusion, mrs. Fainall is an important character in "the way of the world. " she serves to advance the plot and highlight key themes of the play, such as sexual manipulation, societal pressures faced by women, and the desire for money and social status. Through her character, congreve provides a critique of the 18th century society and highlights the complexities of human nature and relationships.
4. What is the setting of the grays poem elegy written in a countrys churchyard?
"elegy written in a country churchyard" by thomas gray is a poem that takes place in a rural english village, set in the countryside near a small churchyard. The setting of the poem is characterized by its quiet, peaceful, and contemplative atmosphere, which reflects the theme of death and mortality that pervades the poem.
The churchyard in the poem is described as a place of rest for the humble and poor, where the bodies of those who lived simple lives are laid to rest. The graves are described as being overgrown with grass and weeds, which speaks to the idea that death is the great leveler, regardless of one's wealth or social status.
The poem's setting is also characterized by its rural nature, with fields and meadows surrounding the churchyard. The countryside provides a peaceful backdrop to the theme of death and adds to the contemplative atmosphere of the poem. The imagery of the countryside also serves to highlight the contrast between the beauty and peace of nature, and the transience and mortality of human life.
In conclusion, the setting of "elegy written in a country churchyard" plays a significant role in the poem. The rural churchyard and countryside provide a peaceful and contemplative backdrop to the theme of death and mortality, while highlighting the idea that death is the great leveler and the transience of human life. Through its setting, the poem invites the reader to reflect on the impermanence of human existence and the cycle of life and death.
Section canswer the following questions in about 400 words each: 5 x 10 = 50
1. Critically comment on crusoes sojourn on the island.
Daniel defoe's "robinson crusoe" tells the story of a man who is shipwrecked on a deserted island and must learn to survive and adapt to his new environment. Crusoe's sojourn on the island is a central aspect of the novel and offers a rich opportunity for analysis and interpretation.
On the surface, crusoe's sojourn on the island can be seen as a survival story, as he must overcome the challenges of living in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Throughout the novel, crusoe demonstrates his resourcefulness and ingenuity, using his skills and knowledge to build a shelter, find food, and defend himself from threats. This aspect of the story highlights the importance of self-sufficiency and the human spirit's ability to adapt to new circumstances.
However, crusoe's sojourn on the island can also be interpreted as a spiritual journey. Throughout the novel, crusoe grapples with his religious beliefs and comes to see his time on the island as a test of his faith. He experiences moments of despair and hopelessness, but also moments of clarity and renewal. Through his experiences on the island, crusoe comes to a deeper understanding of himself and his relationship to god, and the novel can be seen as a allegory for the spiritual journey of self-discovery.
Additionally, crusoe's sojourn on the island can be seen as a commentary on colonialism and imperialism. The novel was published in the early 18th century, during a time when european powers were expanding their empires and colonizing new territories. Crusoe's experiences on the island can be interpreted as a representation of the impact of european colonial expansion on indigenous peoples and the ways in which colonialism affects both the colonizers and the colonized.
In conclusion, crusoe's sojourn on the island in "robinson crusoe" is a complex and multifaceted aspect of the novel that offers rich opportunities for interpretation and analysis. It can be seen as a survival story, a spiritual journey, and a commentary on colonialism and imperialism, and each of these themes adds depth and complexity to the story and invites the reader to engage with the larger themes and ideas that the novel explores.
2. Gullivers travels book iii is a satire against the abuse of science and reason. Critically discuss.
In book iii of "gulliver's travels," jonathan swift employs satire to criticize the abuse of science and reason in his contemporary society. This section of the novel is a sharp critique of the enlightenment ideas and the excesses of reason and rationality that were prevalent in 18th century europe.
Throughout book iii, swift uses irony and sarcasm to poke fun at the way in which the scientific and rational attitudes of the houyhnhnms, the horse-like creatures that gulliver encounters, lead to a rigid and oppressive society. The houyhnhnms, who are meant to embody the ideals of reason and science, are depicted as lacking emotion and compassion, and their society is characterized by a lack of creativity and individuality. Swift shows how the overreliance on reason and science can lead to a dehumanizing and oppressive society.Furthermore, swift also criticizes the way in which science and reason were often used to justify abusive and inhumane practices. For example, the houyhnhnms practice eugenics to maintain their utopian society, and the rationalization of such practices is a direct critique of the ways in which reason was often used to justify oppressive policies in swift's own time.In addition to these critiques, swift also suggests that the abuse of science and reason can lead to a loss of moral values. Throughout book iii, the yahoos, the human-like creatures in the story, are depicted as being corrupted by their use of reason and science. This idea is a direct critique of the enlightenment idea that science and reason would lead to an improvement in human morality and behavior, and it shows how the abuse of science and reason can actually lead to a decline in moral values.
In conclusion, book iii of "gulliver's travels" is a powerful satire against the abuse of science and reason in 18th century europe. Through its portrayal of the houyhnhnms and the yahoos, swift shows how the overreliance on reason and science can lead to a rigid, oppressive, and immoral society, and he invites the reader to question the prevailing ideas and attitudes of his time. The book remains relevant today, as its themes continue to resonate with contemporary debates about the role of science and reason in society.
3. Critically analyze gullivers travels book iv as the critique of english colonialism.
Book iv of "gulliver's travels" is widely considered to be a critique of english colonialism. In this section of the novel, swift uses gulliver's experiences in the country of the houyhnhnms to satirize the actions and attitudes of the english colonial powers.
Throughout book iv, swift portrays the houyhnhnms as a rational and civilized society, in stark contrast to the yahoos, the brutish and savage human-like creatures in the story. This contrast serves to highlight the hypocrisy of the english colonial powers, who saw themselves as civilized and rational, yet oppressed and exploited the peoples of the colonies.In addition, swift also uses the character of gulliver to satirize the english colonial mentality. Gulliver's initial reactions to the houyhnhnms and the yahoos are meant to be humorous, but they also reveal the prejudices and assumptions that were held by the english colonials. For example, gulliver's horror at the appearance of the yahoos is meant to mock the english colonials' fear and revulsion towards the peoples of the colonies.
Furthermore, swift also criticizes the ways in which the english colonials justified their actions in the colonies. Throughout book iv, the houyhnhnms are depicted as completely rational and reasonable, and their rejection of the yahoos and their society is meant to reflect the ways in which the english colonials justified their treatment of the peoples of the colonies. This rejection is a direct critique of the colonial powers' rationalization of their exploitation and oppression of the colonies, and it serves to highlight the absurdity of these justifications.
In conclusion, book iv of "gulliver's travels" is a powerful critique of english colonialism. Through its portrayal of the houyhnhnms and the yahoos, swift highlights the hypocrisy and prejudices of the english colonial powers, and he invites the reader to question the actions and attitudes of the colonial powers. The book remains relevant today, as its themes continue to resonate with contemporary debates about colonialism and its legacy.
4. Does the play the way of the world uphold bourgeoisie ideology and mercantile capitalism? Comment
"the way of the world" is a restoration comedy written by william congreve in 1700. The play is often seen as a representation of the values and beliefs of the emerging bourgeoisie class and their support for mercantile capitalism.
One of the central themes of the play is the pursuit of wealth and social status. The characters are motivated by the desire to accumulate wealth and attain higher social standing through marriage and financial transactions. This focus on material gain is in line with the values of mercantile capitalism, which emphasized the accumulation of wealth through trade and commerce.
Additionally, the play also portrays the bourgeoisie as being concerned with manners and societal norms, which further reinforces their position as the dominant class. The characters in the play are preoccupied with proper etiquette and the social norms that define the upper-class, and they use these norms to judge others and maintain their own social status.
However, while the play may seem to uphold bourgeoisie ideology, it is also notable for its criticisms of the same. For example, the character of lady wishfort is often seen as a satirization of the vanity and superficiality of the bourgeoisie, while the character of foible is a criticism of the servant class, who were seen as being subservient to the bourgeoisie.Furthermore, the play also critiques the superficiality and emptiness of the pursuit of wealth and status, which was seen as a hallmark of the bourgeoisie. The play's ending, in which the characters are revealed to be insincere and manipulative, is a commentary on the emptiness of their values and their pursuit of wealth and status.
In conclusion, "the way of the world" is both a representation of and a critique of the values and beliefs of the bourgeoisie class and their support for mercantile capitalism. While the play certainly portrays the pursuit of wealth and status as being central to the values of the bourgeoisie, it also critiques the emptiness and superficiality of these values, and invites the reader to question their worth.
5. Analyze the pastoral elements in grays elegy.
"elegy written in a country churchyard" by thomas gray is a poem that is considered to be one of the greatest examples of the pastoral tradition in english literature. The pastoral tradition was a literary movement that celebrated the simple, rural life and its values, often in contrast to the corruption and excess of urban life.The setting of the poem is a country churchyard, and it is filled with imagery that evokes a rural, pastoral landscape. The poem opens with a description of the churchyard and its monuments, which symbolize the passage of time and the transience of life. The description of the yew trees and the grassy mounds also contribute to the peaceful, rural atmosphere of the poem.
Throughout the poem, gray reflects on the lives of the unknown and forgotten rural people who are buried in the churchyard. He imagines their lives and the hardships they faced, and contrasts their simple, honest existence with the lives of the wealthy and powerful. This creates a strong pastoral contrast between the urban and rural ways of life, with the rural life being depicted as more wholesome and authentic.
The poem also features several references to classical literature and mythology, which further emphasizes the timelessness and universality of the rural way of life. The reference to "the paths of glory lead but to the grave" is a nod to the classical tradition and suggests that, despite the differences in wealth and status, all human beings must eventually face death.
Gray's use of melancholy and mournful imagery, such as the "softly sighing breeze" and the "tearful drop, " creates a mood of sadness and introspection, which is typical of pastoral poetry. These elements work together to create a melancholic and nostalgic portrait of rural life, which is seen as being more authentic and meaningful than the fast-paced and materialistic urban life.
In conclusion, "elegy written in a country churchyard" is a pastoral poem that celebrates the simple, rural life and its values. Through its setting, themes, and imagery, the poem contrasts the rural and urban ways of life, and invites the reader to reflect on the transience of life and the worth of material pursuits.
Answer all questions.
Section A
(i) political debates of 17th century england
the political debates of 17th century england were marked by significant ideological and religious divisions. The central themes of these debates revolved around the nature of power, government, and the rights of individuals. One of the major debates was between those who believed in absolute monarchy, where the king had complete control over the government and the people, and those who believed in limited monarchy, where the king's power was restricted by laws and the rights of individuals were protected.
Another major debate was between those who supported the church of england, with its hierarchy and the king as its head, and those who supported puritanism, a more radical form of protestantism that sought to eliminate the church's hierarchical structure and replace it with a more democratic model.
The political debates of the 17th century had far-reaching consequences for england and the world. The english civil war (1642-1651) was a direct result of these debates, as the country was split into two factions, the royalists (cavaliers) and the parliamentarians (roundheads), with each side fighting for control of the government. The outcome of the war, the execution of king charles i, and the establishment of the commonwealth marked a turning point in english history and paved the way for the eventual restoration of the monarchy. The debates of the 17th century also influenced the development of democratic and liberal thought, which would play a significant role in the formation of modern western political systems.
(ii) satire in new classical age.
Satire was an important aspect of the new classical age, also known as the enlightenment, which took place in europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries. During this time, satire was used to criticize and challenge the political, social, and religious norms of the time. Satirists sought to expose the flaws and absurdities of their society and to promote change by poking fun at those in power and their actions.
One of the most famous satirists of the new classical age was jonathan swift, who wrote "gulliver's travels, " a satirical work that mocked the political and social institutions of the time. Swift used the story of a man who travels to various lands and encounters different societies as a way to critique the excesses and follies of his own.
Satire was also a means for writers to express their own political and personal beliefs without fear of punishment. For example, the french playwright moliere used his works to attack the hypocrisy and corruption of the french nobility and the catholic church. His works, such as "tartuffe, " used humor to expose the excesses and vices of those in power.
The use of satire in the new classical age was a reflection of the broader intellectual and cultural changes taking place during this time. The enlightenment was characterized by a spirit of reason and free thought, and satire was a way for writers to challenge the status quo and to promote change through laughter. As such, it played an important role in the intellectual and cultural life of the time and helped to shape the ideas and values that continue to influence our world today.
(iii) features of restoration comedy
restoration comedy is a genre of drama that emerged in england during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, following the restoration of the monarchy in 1660. This style of comedy was characterized by several key features:
sexual intrigue: restoration comedies often revolved around romantic misunderstandings, sexual pursuits, and witty banter between characters. The plays often dealt with the sexual and social escapades of the upper classes and the witty repartee between characters was an essential element of the genre.
Bawdy humor: restoration comedies were known for their bawdy humor and sexual innuendo, which was often seen as a reflection of the libertine culture of the time.
Romantic idealism: despite their bawdy humor, restoration comedies often celebrated romantic love and idealized relationships. The plays often featured idealized versions of love and courtship, and the resolution of the play often involved the union of two lovers.
Satire: restoration comedies were often satirical in nature, poking fun at the manners and customs of the upper classes and the society as a whole. The plays were a reflection of the changing attitudes and values of the time and provided a critique of the political and social norms of the era.
Restoration spectacles: restoration comedies often featured grand spectacles, including elaborate sets, costumes, and music. These spectacles were an important part of the theatrical experience and were designed to captivate and delight audiences.
Restoration comedies were a major part of the cultural life of the time and were performed in theaters throughout england. The genre continues to be popular today, and many of the plays are still performed and adapted for modern audiences. The legacy of restoration comedy can be seen in the work of many modern playwrights and filmmakers, who continue to be influenced by its witty humor, romantic idealism, and social satire.
(iv) broad features of literature in the long 18th century.
The "long 18th century" refers to the period from 1660 to 1800, a time of great literary achievement and artistic expression in europe and north america. The following are some of the broad features of literature during this period:
enlightenment ideas: literature during the long 18th century reflected the influence of enlightenment ideas, including reason, science, and individualism. Many writers sought to challenge traditional ideas and institutions and promote the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice.
Realism: literature during the long 18th century emphasized realism and a focus on everyday life and human experience. This was reflected in works such as samuel richardson's "pamela, " which depicted the lives of ordinary people and their struggles.
Satire: satire was a popular form of literature during the long 18th century, used by writers to criticize the political and social norms of the time. Works such as alexander pope's "the rape of the lock" and jonathan swift's "a tale of a tub" used wit and humor to expose the absurdities of society.
Romanticism: the late 18th century saw the emergence of romanticism, a literary movement that emphasized emotion, imagination, and the beauty of nature. Works such as william wordsworth's "i wandered lonely as a cloud" and samuel taylor coleridge's "the rime of the ancient mariner" celebrated the power of the imagination and the beauty of nature.
Sensibility: sensibility, or the emphasis on sensitivity and emotion, was a major trend in literature during the long 18th century. Works such as laurence sterne's "tristram shandy" and henry fielding's "tom jones" explored the emotional lives of their characters and the complexities of human experience.
The literature of the long 18th century was diverse and reflected the changing cultural, social, and political landscape of the time. The works produced during this period continue to be widely read and studied today, and their influence can be seen in the literature and culture of the modern world.
Section b
answer the following in about 300 words each: 4 x 7.5 = 30
1. Critical comment on the binarisation of the savage and the civilized in defoes crusoe. Does the story also blur this rigid binarisation sometimes ?
Daniel defoe's "robinson crusoe" is a classic example of the binary opposition between the "savage" and the "civilized. " in the novel, the distinction between the two is often used to emphasize the superiority of the "civilized" over the "savage. " crusoe's initial encounter with friday, a native of the island he is stranded on, sets up a clear contrast between the two characters. Crusoe is portrayed as a "civilized" european with a strong sense of morality and religion, while friday is depicted as a "savage" who is primitive and uncivilized.
However, the novel also blurs this rigid binarization at times. For example, crusoe's initial impression of friday is that he is a "monster, " but as he gets to know the native more, he realizes that friday is actually a good and intelligent person. Through his relationship with friday, crusoe comes to understand that the distinctions between the "savage" and the "civilized" is not as clear-cut as he once thought.
Furthermore, the novel also explores the idea that the "civilized" are not always morally superior to the "savage. " crusoe, who is portrayed as the epitome of "civilization, " is shown to be cruel and greedy at times. He enslaves friday, takes advantage of the native's labor, and uses his wealth and power to dominate the island. In contrast, friday is portrayed as being kind and generous, despite his lack of "civilization. "
overall, "robinson crusoe" challenges the notion of the "savage" and the "civilized" being fixed and binary categories. The novel highlights the complexity of human nature and the fluidity of cultural and moral values. It suggests that the distinction between the "savage" and the "civilized" is not absolute and that individuals from different cultures and backgrounds can have both positive and negative traits. The novel's nuanced exploration of these themes makes it a valuable contribution to the discourse on colonialism and cultural differences.
2. Does swift help us question the binary between a man and an animal in gullivers travels? Comment.
Jonathan swift's "gulliver's travels" is a satirical work that questions the binary between man and animal in several ways. Through its portrayal of the different societies that gulliver encounters, the novel challenges the idea of a clear and unchanging divide between the two.
One of the ways in which swift questions the binary is by depicting the relationships between the humans and animals in the various societies gulliver visits. In the land of the houyhnhnms, horses are depicted as the ruling class and humans are treated as inferior animals. This inversion of the traditional hierarchy between man and animal challenges the idea of a clear-cut difference between the two and suggests that the distinction is not absolute.
Additionally, the novel also questions the binary through its portrayal of the different human societies gulliver visits. For example, the inhabitants of the floating island of laputa are depicted as intellectually superior, but emotionally and morally deficient. This portrayal challenges the idea that the human species is inherently superior to animals and suggests that humans, like animals, can have both positive and negative traits.
Furthermore, swift also uses the character of gulliver to question the binary. Gulliver's reactions to the different societies he visits highlight his own biases and preconceptions about the nature of man and animal. Through his interactions with the various societies, gulliver comes to realize that the distinctions between the two is not as clear as he once thought.
In conclusion, "gulliver's travels" is a work that questions the binary between man and animal. Through its portrayal of different societies and the character of gulliver, the novel challenges the idea of a clear and unchanging distinction between the two and highlights the complexities of human nature and cultural differences.
3. What role and purpose does mrs. Fainall serve in the play the way of the world?
In william congreve's play "the way of the world," mrs. Fainall serves a significant role in advancing the plot and highlighting key themes of the play.
Mrs. Fainall is the wife of mirabell and the former mistress of sir wilfull witwoud. She is portrayed as a cunning and manipulative character who is driven by her desire for money and social status. Her past relationship with sir wilfull is a central aspect of the play and serves to highlight the theme of sexual manipulation and exploitation in the upper classes of society.
Mrs. Fainall's role in the play is crucial in advancing the plot, as she is involved in the scheme to secure her husband's fortune. She conspires with mirabell to deceive sir wilfull and foible into thinking that she is still in love with sir wilfull. This deception sets into motion a series of events that lead to the resolution of the play.
Furthermore, mrs. Fainall's character also serves the purpose of illustrating the societal pressures faced by women in the 18th century. Her desire for money and social status is a result of the limited options available to women in a male-dominated society. Through her character, congreve critiques the societal norms that restrict women and highlights the ways in which they are forced to manipulate and exploit others in order to secure their own futures.
In conclusion, mrs. Fainall is an important character in "the way of the world. " she serves to advance the plot and highlight key themes of the play, such as sexual manipulation, societal pressures faced by women, and the desire for money and social status. Through her character, congreve provides a critique of the 18th century society and highlights the complexities of human nature and relationships.
4. What is the setting of the grays poem elegy written in a countrys churchyard?
"elegy written in a country churchyard" by thomas gray is a poem that takes place in a rural english village, set in the countryside near a small churchyard. The setting of the poem is characterized by its quiet, peaceful, and contemplative atmosphere, which reflects the theme of death and mortality that pervades the poem.
The churchyard in the poem is described as a place of rest for the humble and poor, where the bodies of those who lived simple lives are laid to rest. The graves are described as being overgrown with grass and weeds, which speaks to the idea that death is the great leveler, regardless of one's wealth or social status.
The poem's setting is also characterized by its rural nature, with fields and meadows surrounding the churchyard. The countryside provides a peaceful backdrop to the theme of death and adds to the contemplative atmosphere of the poem. The imagery of the countryside also serves to highlight the contrast between the beauty and peace of nature, and the transience and mortality of human life.
In conclusion, the setting of "elegy written in a country churchyard" plays a significant role in the poem. The rural churchyard and countryside provide a peaceful and contemplative backdrop to the theme of death and mortality, while highlighting the idea that death is the great leveler and the transience of human life. Through its setting, the poem invites the reader to reflect on the impermanence of human existence and the cycle of life and death.
Section c
answer the following questions in about 400 words each: 5 x 10 = 50
1. Critically comment on crusoes sojourn on the island.
Daniel defoe's "robinson crusoe" tells the story of a man who is shipwrecked on a deserted island and must learn to survive and adapt to his new environment. Crusoe's sojourn on the island is a central aspect of the novel and offers a rich opportunity for analysis and interpretation.
On the surface, crusoe's sojourn on the island can be seen as a survival story, as he must overcome the challenges of living in a harsh and unforgiving environment. Throughout the novel, crusoe demonstrates his resourcefulness and ingenuity, using his skills and knowledge to build a shelter, find food, and defend himself from threats. This aspect of the story highlights the importance of self-sufficiency and the human spirit's ability to adapt to new circumstances.
However, crusoe's sojourn on the island can also be interpreted as a spiritual journey. Throughout the novel, crusoe grapples with his religious beliefs and comes to see his time on the island as a test of his faith. He experiences moments of despair and hopelessness, but also moments of clarity and renewal. Through his experiences on the island, crusoe comes to a deeper understanding of himself and his relationship to god, and the novel can be seen as a allegory for the spiritual journey of self-discovery.
Additionally, crusoe's sojourn on the island can be seen as a commentary on colonialism and imperialism. The novel was published in the early 18th century, during a time when european powers were expanding their empires and colonizing new territories. Crusoe's experiences on the island can be interpreted as a representation of the impact of european colonial expansion on indigenous peoples and the ways in which colonialism affects both the colonizers and the colonized.
In conclusion, crusoe's sojourn on the island in "robinson crusoe" is a complex and multifaceted aspect of the novel that offers rich opportunities for interpretation and analysis. It can be seen as a survival story, a spiritual journey, and a commentary on colonialism and imperialism, and each of these themes adds depth and complexity to the story and invites the reader to engage with the larger themes and ideas that the novel explores.
2. Gullivers travels book iii is a satire against the abuse of science and reason. Critically discuss.
In book iii of "gulliver's travels," jonathan swift employs satire to criticize the abuse of science and reason in his contemporary society. This section of the novel is a sharp critique of the enlightenment ideas and the excesses of reason and rationality that were prevalent in 18th century europe.
Throughout book iii, swift uses irony and sarcasm to poke fun at the way in which the scientific and rational attitudes of the houyhnhnms, the horse-like creatures that gulliver encounters, lead to a rigid and oppressive society. The houyhnhnms, who are meant to embody the ideals of reason and science, are depicted as lacking emotion and compassion, and their society is characterized by a lack of creativity and individuality. Swift shows how the overreliance on reason and science can lead to a dehumanizing and oppressive society.
Furthermore, swift also criticizes the way in which science and reason were often used to justify abusive and inhumane practices. For example, the houyhnhnms practice eugenics to maintain their utopian society, and the rationalization of such practices is a direct critique of the ways in which reason was often used to justify oppressive policies in swift's own time.
In addition to these critiques, swift also suggests that the abuse of science and reason can lead to a loss of moral values. Throughout book iii, the yahoos, the human-like creatures in the story, are depicted as being corrupted by their use of reason and science. This idea is a direct critique of the enlightenment idea that science and reason would lead to an improvement in human morality and behavior, and it shows how the abuse of science and reason can actually lead to a decline in moral values.
In conclusion, book iii of "gulliver's travels" is a powerful satire against the abuse of science and reason in 18th century europe. Through its portrayal of the houyhnhnms and the yahoos, swift shows how the overreliance on reason and science can lead to a rigid, oppressive, and immoral society, and he invites the reader to question the prevailing ideas and attitudes of his time. The book remains relevant today, as its themes continue to resonate with contemporary debates about the role of science and reason in society.
3. Critically analyze gullivers travels book iv as the critique of english colonialism.
Book iv of "gulliver's travels" is widely considered to be a critique of english colonialism. In this section of the novel, swift uses gulliver's experiences in the country of the houyhnhnms to satirize the actions and attitudes of the english colonial powers.
Throughout book iv, swift portrays the houyhnhnms as a rational and civilized society, in stark contrast to the yahoos, the brutish and savage human-like creatures in the story. This contrast serves to highlight the hypocrisy of the english colonial powers, who saw themselves as civilized and rational, yet oppressed and exploited the peoples of the colonies.
In addition, swift also uses the character of gulliver to satirize the english colonial mentality. Gulliver's initial reactions to the houyhnhnms and the yahoos are meant to be humorous, but they also reveal the prejudices and assumptions that were held by the english colonials. For example, gulliver's horror at the appearance of the yahoos is meant to mock the english colonials' fear and revulsion towards the peoples of the colonies.
Furthermore, swift also criticizes the ways in which the english colonials justified their actions in the colonies. Throughout book iv, the houyhnhnms are depicted as completely rational and reasonable, and their rejection of the yahoos and their society is meant to reflect the ways in which the english colonials justified their treatment of the peoples of the colonies. This rejection is a direct critique of the colonial powers' rationalization of their exploitation and oppression of the colonies, and it serves to highlight the absurdity of these justifications.
In conclusion, book iv of "gulliver's travels" is a powerful critique of english colonialism. Through its portrayal of the houyhnhnms and the yahoos, swift highlights the hypocrisy and prejudices of the english colonial powers, and he invites the reader to question the actions and attitudes of the colonial powers. The book remains relevant today, as its themes continue to resonate with contemporary debates about colonialism and its legacy.
4. Does the play the way of the world uphold bourgeoisie ideology and mercantile capitalism? Comment
"the way of the world" is a restoration comedy written by william congreve in 1700. The play is often seen as a representation of the values and beliefs of the emerging bourgeoisie class and their support for mercantile capitalism.
One of the central themes of the play is the pursuit of wealth and social status. The characters are motivated by the desire to accumulate wealth and attain higher social standing through marriage and financial transactions. This focus on material gain is in line with the values of mercantile capitalism, which emphasized the accumulation of wealth through trade and commerce.
Additionally, the play also portrays the bourgeoisie as being concerned with manners and societal norms, which further reinforces their position as the dominant class. The characters in the play are preoccupied with proper etiquette and the social norms that define the upper-class, and they use these norms to judge others and maintain their own social status.
However, while the play may seem to uphold bourgeoisie ideology, it is also notable for its criticisms of the same. For example, the character of lady wishfort is often seen as a satirization of the vanity and superficiality of the bourgeoisie, while the character of foible is a criticism of the servant class, who were seen as being subservient to the bourgeoisie.
Furthermore, the play also critiques the superficiality and emptiness of the pursuit of wealth and status, which was seen as a hallmark of the bourgeoisie. The play's ending, in which the characters are revealed to be insincere and manipulative, is a commentary on the emptiness of their values and their pursuit of wealth and status.
In conclusion, "the way of the world" is both a representation of and a critique of the values and beliefs of the bourgeoisie class and their support for mercantile capitalism. While the play certainly portrays the pursuit of wealth and status as being central to the values of the bourgeoisie, it also critiques the emptiness and superficiality of these values, and invites the reader to question their worth.
5. Analyze the pastoral elements in grays elegy.
"elegy written in a country churchyard" by thomas gray is a poem that is considered to be one of the greatest examples of the pastoral tradition in english literature. The pastoral tradition was a literary movement that celebrated the simple, rural life and its values, often in contrast to the corruption and excess of urban life.
The setting of the poem is a country churchyard, and it is filled with imagery that evokes a rural, pastoral landscape. The poem opens with a description of the churchyard and its monuments, which symbolize the passage of time and the transience of life. The description of the yew trees and the grassy mounds also contribute to the peaceful, rural atmosphere of the poem.
Throughout the poem, gray reflects on the lives of the unknown and forgotten rural people who are buried in the churchyard. He imagines their lives and the hardships they faced, and contrasts their simple, honest existence with the lives of the wealthy and powerful. This creates a strong pastoral contrast between the urban and rural ways of life, with the rural life being depicted as more wholesome and authentic.
The poem also features several references to classical literature and mythology, which further emphasizes the timelessness and universality of the rural way of life. The reference to "the paths of glory lead but to the grave" is a nod to the classical tradition and suggests that, despite the differences in wealth and status, all human beings must eventually face death.
Gray's use of melancholy and mournful imagery, such as the "softly sighing breeze" and the "tearful drop, " creates a mood of sadness and introspection, which is typical of pastoral poetry. These elements work together to create a melancholic and nostalgic portrait of rural life, which is seen as being more authentic and meaningful than the fast-paced and materialistic urban life.
In conclusion, "elegy written in a country churchyard" is a pastoral poem that celebrates the simple, rural life and its values. Through its setting, themes, and imagery, the poem contrasts the rural and urban ways of life, and invites the reader to reflect on the transience of life and the worth of material pursuits.