Theoretical Construct and Issue for Sweden Different Facets of Homogeneous Society and Cultural Hegemony

Sweden is a country with a long history which is now regarded as one of the world’s â€Å"most advanced nations in terms of politics, social welfare, gender equality, standard of living, technology, the arts, and participation in regional and global developments† (Nordstrom 1).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Theoretical Construct and Issue for Sweden: Different Facets of Homogeneous Society and Cultural Hegemony specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This country was also characterized by homogenous population throughout centuries, but increasing immigration which took place in the twentieth century has changed the demographic situation in the country. Nevertheless, Swedish culture and Swedish values are still being promulgated in the country. However, according to Witoszek and Trà ¤gà ¥rdh cultural hegemony in Sweden has led to many issues concerning minorities living in the country (196). In the contemporary globalized world many argue that homogeneity can be the clue to cultural sustainability, but sometimes hegemony of culture can lead to various unexpected outcomes. In this paper I argue that cultural hegemony in Sweden led to such negative outcomes as development of extreme forms of nationalism which threatened democracy in the country and led to numerous acts of violence. Therefore, in the first place, I will touch upon peculiarities of cultural hegemony in Sweden and its origins and then I will consider examples of negative outcomes of cultural hegemony in Sweden. As has been mentioned above Sweden was homogenous for a long time. Swedish homogeneity is the major background for the hegemony of Swedish culture. Admittedly, there were the necessary premises to develop such notion as â€Å"Swedishness† (Grà ¶ndahl 22). Sweden culture is based on such â€Å"typical Swedish values like equality, self-criticism, worship of nature† (Gustavsson 503). It is necessary to add that Swedish homogeneity was also possible due to the impact of religion, since the majority of adult population of the country pertain to Lutheran Church and, thus, share the same values (Berggren 573). More so, Sweden is one of those few countries which were not threatened by external attacks (Hjerm). When considering Swedish cultural homogeneity it is important to mention that the country enjoyed political, social and economical stability throughout centuries since after the rapid development in the times of the industrial revolution the country did not have periods of serious economical crisis.Advertising Looking for research paper on rhetoric? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, this favorable tendency was interrupted in the 1990s when Sweden faced serious economic recession (Hjerm). It goes without saying that economic constraints influence cultural development of the country. Admittedly, in combina tion with immigration these economical issues can result in the development of extreme nationalism which is one of possible negative outcomes of cultural hegemony. As far as immigration in Sweden is concerned it is necessary to point out that after World War II â€Å"an influx of refugees and labor immigrants took place† (Grà ¶ndahl 22). There were two other major influxes which took place in 1960s and 1980s. Immigrants who came to Sweden were of Finnish and Kurdish origins (Grà ¶ndahl 22). It is necessary to point out that Swedish always had negative attitude toward immigrants which can be explained by their long-lasting homogeneity. In simple words, these people were not accustomed to multinational environment, so they still divided their society in Swedish and others. A number of surveys prove that statement. Thus, the survey held in 1969 revealed the prevalent negative attitude towards immigrants among â€Å"people with little formal education and among the working cla ss†, and among elderly people (Westin 189). Only young people and people who travelled a lot did not reveal negative attitude towards immigrants. The following survey held in 1981 revealed the same results, but the rate of people who positively viewed immigrants was higher, though the negative attitude prevailed. These findings were explained by the fact that young people â€Å"replaced† elderly people (Westin 189). However, the following surveys held in 1987, 1990, and 1993 revealed that the public opinion changed and the number of people who did not oppose immigration decreased dramatically, instead â€Å"xenophobic and racist attitudes† emerged (Westin 189). It is important to note that this was the period of economic recession which, as has been stated above, plays quite considerable role in shaping cultural development. In such periods people start paying more attention to their cultural heritage promulgating ideas of cherishing the past. Admittedly, cultura l â€Å"revival and mobilization occur when the existence of a community or region is threatened† (Ekman 281). It can be expected that in Sweden this process should be held in terms of their major values concerning democracy, religion and equality.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Theoretical Construct and Issue for Sweden: Different Facets of Homogeneous Society and Cultural Hegemony specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More However, it is necessary to add that often cultural hegemony can result in the development of such negative subcultures as extreme nationalism. In Sweden where the major values are equality and democracy many young (and elderly) people speak of their ethnic supremacy over immigrants, people who have other origins, i.e. â€Å"others†. This can be explained by the fact that †¦subordinated groups offer resistance to the hegemony of elite culture; they create subaltern popular cultures and contest for a voice in the dominant public sphere. (qtd. in Martin and Nakayama 312) In times when no economical or political constraint occur, the subordinated groups may reveal their protests via music, looks (punk, Goths, etc.). However, when difficult economical conditions influence people’s well-being the protest can acquire extreme forms. Thus, within Swedish culture which promulgates equality, there appear subcultures which promulgate equality among chosen, people of Swedish origin. Therefore, long-lasting cultural hegemony when threatened by appearance of other cultures resulted in numerous cases of violence. Reportedly, the cases of racial violence have increased dramatically during recent years (than 3,000 cases in 2001) (Larsson 4). However, this subculture though has been developing rapidly did not transform into hegemony, and remained within the limits of sub-cultural status. It is possible to get a closer look at the peculiarities of such subcultur es considering the activities of white power movement in Sweden. White power movement is neo-fascist movement which promulgates the supremacy of white race, as opposed to other races and ethnicities (Eyerman 456). White power movement is quite powerful in Sweden. However, to estimate the rate of neo-fascist and extreme nationalistic views it is possible to consider popularity of white power music in the country. Admittedly, those who listen to this music and attend concerts are not necessarily people ready for violent actions, but they are supporters of the sub-culture which promulgates ideas of Swedish supremacy. White power music includes such musical styles as â€Å"country music, folk music, Viking music, black metal or hard-core rock, with some overlap with punk† (Eyerman451). Notably, this subculture has a lot in common with elite culture since it is also based on cultural heritage, i.e. folk songs and music. According to Swedish Council for Crime Prevention Sweden is o ne of the leaders of white power music production worldwide (Eyerman 451). More than 5,000 participants were registered in the recent concert of the white power music.Advertising Looking for research paper on rhetoric? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Interestingly, there are 1,500-2,000 core activists within this movement, and the number of sympathizers can hardly be estimated (Eyerman 451). It is important to note that the majority of core activists are males between 25 and 35 years old. They have households and children. The number of female members gradually increases. Thus, the movement’s core activists are not teenagers who only want to reveal their protest to the power. These are people who have some experience and can critically evaluate situation in the country and shape their outlines. The movement was developed several decades ago and became a significant subculture. The development of technology contributed greatly to the spread of the white power music and ideas. Thus, people could visit an official website and find out about the movement more information, and consequently join the subculture. However, increased number of violent actions implemented by neo-fascist organizations made Swedish government and medi a respond (Eyerman 456). Public opinion was against any violence, even though many shared the same negative attitude towards ethnic minorities. Thus, neo-fascist organizations were declared illegal, so this subculture became marginal and more covert. Interestingly, Eyerman provides an explanation for the fact that this subculture was suppressed by those in power. He states that a commonly recognized aspect of Swedish political culture is the role of organized political parties, in absorbing and institutionalizing political protest. The role and relationship of the parties in other words, are central to any emergent collective action. (Eyerman 457) In terms of Intercultural Communication Theory it is possible to restate the same statement in the following way: cultural hegemony in Sweden did not let neo-fascist subculture develop since the latter used too extreme ways of communicating ideas. Thus, when considering cultural hegemony in Sweden it is possible to observe the peculiarity of cultural hegemony (on the whole) which is often characterized by, so to speak, dualistic nature. On one hand, it leads to creation of various subcultures since people pertaining to the culture can oppose some of its values (in case with Swedish neo-fascist organizations did not support the value of equality). On the other hand, cultural hegemony prevents subcultures from further development because the majority of people (those pertaining to elite culture) long to preserve their values. In conclusion, it is possible to state that cultural hegemony in Sweden had some negative outcomes. Numerous acts of violence committed by activists of neo-fascist organizations which formed a certain subculture threatened the order established in the country. However, it is important to point out that the development of extreme nationalistic sub-cultures took place in the period of economical and political constraints. Admittedly, in the times of flourishing cultural hegemony led to unity of the entire nation. As a result, Swedish culture has preserved its historical heritage due to the cultural hegemony. Therefore, cultural hegemony is favorable for the development of any society. However, it is important to be careful and interrupt the development of dangerous subcultures when it is still possible to diminish their influence. Admittedly, Swedish people only start making their first steps in international communication. The process is lengthy and quite complicated. Nevertheless, Swedish culture which promulgates eternal values will make it possible to complete the process successfully. Works Cited Berggren, Niclas. â€Å"Rhetoric or Reality? An Economic Analysis of the Effect of Religion in Sweden.† Journal of Socio-Economics 26.6 (2002): 571-596. Ekman, Ann-Kristin. â€Å"The Revival of Cultural Celebrations in Regional Sweden. Aspeccts of Tradition and Transition.† Sociologia Ruralis 39.3 (1999): 280-293. Eyerman, Ron. â€Å"Music in Movement: Cultural Pol itics and Old and New Social Movements.† Qualitative Sociology 25.3 (2002): 443-458. Grà ¶ndahl, Satu. â€Å"Identity Politics and Construction of ‘Minor’ Literatures: Multicultural Swedish Literature at the Turn of the Millennium.† Multiethnica 30 (2007): 21-29. Gustavsson, Bengt. â€Å"Human Values in Swedish Management.† Management Communication Quarterly 24.4 (2010): 503-528. Hjerm, Mikael. â€Å"Reconstructing â€Å"Positive† Nationalism: Evidence from Norway and Sweden.† Sociological Research Online 3.2 (1998): n. pag. Web. Larsson, Stieg. â€Å"A Study on Racially Motivated Crime and Violence in Sweden.† National Focal Point of the European Monitoring Centre on Racism and Xenophobia September (2002): 1-46.  Expo.se. Web. Martin, Judith N., and Thomas K. Nakayama. Intercultural Communication in Contexts, 5/e. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield Publishing Company, 2010. Nordstrom, Byron J. The History of Sweden. Westport, CT: Gr eenwood Publishing Group, 2002. Westin, Charles. â€Å"Neo-Nazism in a Welfare State: The Example of Sweden.† Journal of Conflict and Violence Research 2.2 (2000): 184-206. Witoszek, Nina and Lars Trà ¤gà ¥rdh. Culture and Crisis: The Case of Germany and Sweden. New York, NY: Berghahn Books, 2002. This research paper on Theoretical Construct and Issue for Sweden: Different Facets of Homogeneous Society and Cultural Hegemony was written and submitted by user Karlee Parrish to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

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Task Centred Approach in Mental Health â€Å"Write a case study illustrating a social work intervention with an individual or family drawn from your current practice placement. The case study should illustrate the application of a social work method / approach (such as crisis intervention, systemic approaches, solution focused approach, CBT etc) to a practice situation and should contain a critical analysis of the chosen methodology.† Within this assignment I will discuss a case that I am managing within my placement by providing details of the case and other professional bodies that are currently involved. In relation to this case I will discuss the relevant theories and methods that I have used with this client and critically analyse my choice of method. I will also mention other methods or approaches that I feel may have been beneficial to my work with the client. 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According to Trevthick.P (2005) it also states that there are four types of techniques which are systematic desensitization, aversion therapy, operant conditioning, and modelling. In regards to working with Michael in this session, I used one of these techniques which were operant conditioning. â€Å"Operant conditioning is a technique where ‘the environment has been specifically programmed to support certain behaviours and discourage other s’ (Sheldon, 1995) by altering the consequences that follow† (Trevthick.P,2005:P.96). While working with Michael and arranging to have our sessions in the civic centre every week it is evident through our sessions that the environment around him would have an effect on his behaviour. For example if the civic centre was busy Michael would sometimes seem a little anxious, whereas if the centre was quiet, Michael’s mood would be quite calm. Through operant conditioning it also discusses the possibility of reinforcements in regards to behaviours. 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Also understanding that their problems can be resolved by their actions outside the ongoing work they may have with the social worker and that the problems can be defined clearly. While also having certain issues in the clients lives that they feel that they can change and that these problems are realised by the client and not others that are in the client’s life (Payne. M, 1997). It is also discussed that it should be assessed of the â€Å"direction and strengths of clients wants† (Payne. M, 1997), this is explained in regards that the clients want can start an action, although the clients belief system can shape the want while also providing an accept able way of accomplishing those wants. In result according to Payne. M (1997) a belief can steer an action and by completing certain cognitive therapies these beliefs can be changed. According to Payne. M (1997) this was called a point of leverage. A point of leverage is accuracy, scope and consistency. Accuracy is when a social worker would discuss how accurate a client’s belief is then discuss the scope in which they discuss the range of beliefs that client has and explored with the client when they think these beliefs are limited. And lastly consistency in which the social worker would tackle misrepresentations due to a disagreement between one belief and another in which the social worker would be able to remove these and discuss it with the client. Through this emotions can arise for the client when there is a collaboration of their belief and want. This can then follow onto an action which would be shown by a behaviour which would be carried with intent which then follo ws on to a plan (Payne. M, 1997). A plan is a portray of intentions which is formed from the interaction of the belief, want and emotion (Payne. M, 1997). Through this a plan can be set in regards to exploring alternative options that may not have been tried by doing so this can give feedback to the client and social worker to understand if the method was successful or not. Through this method it also allows the client to resolve any problems they may have while also providing them with the skills for situations that may arise in the future. In result the client would be able to tackle a future issue that may arise without the need of the social worker. As cited in Payne. M (1997), Reid (1978) discusses the various stages of task centred practice. These are as follows step one â€Å"identify potential problems† (Payne.M, 1997) identifying specific problems the client is having and allowing them to express these problems in their own words in order to gain a full understanding of the situation. Step two is â€Å"reaching tentative agreements† (Payne.M, 1997), by doing this you can explore the main problems the client may be facing. Step three is â€Å"challenge unresolvable or undesirable problems† (Payne.M, 1997) by completing this with the client the social worker can challenge these problems so the client will not be encouraged to obtain an unrealistic goal. Step four is â€Å"raising additional problems† (Payne.M, 1997), through this step the social worker can challenge and allow the client to realise other problems they may be having. Step five is â€Å"seek others involvement† (Payne.M, 1997) through this it may be beneficial to seek others that can be supportive or can contribute to finding a solution. Step six is â€Å"jointly assess the reason for referral† (Payne.M, 1997); in this step it would be useful to discuss the reason why the client was referred to the service especially if the client was forced to do so. Step seven is â€Å"get precise details† (Payne.M, 1997), it would be very important for the social worker to get accurate details into when and where the problems are occurring for the client. Step eight is to specify the problem for the client, step nine would be to identify the clear baselines and lastly step ten would be to decide on the changes the client would like to make (Payne.M, 1997).Throughout this process it is vital that the client and social worker have a similar understanding of what needs to be achieved and also provide feedback at the end of each session in order to understand if certain aspects of their work is not proving su ccessful. Adams. R et al (2002) discusses this that task centred work is a systematic model which examines what works well for the client and what doesn’t work so well in regards to achieving the desired goals that are put in place (Adams.R et al,2005). In regards to this the main reason why I used this approach with Michael was because he has a mild intellectual disability and it can be difficult to engage Michael in activities for a long period of time. So when starting the recovery star I explained to Michael that we would complete three sections and then continue the rest the following week. Throughout this session Michael became agitated and annoyed as he wanted to receive his daily allowance and leave. Although when continuing to proceed with the recovery star and using the task centred approach it became clear to myself and Michael what improvements he would like to make in the different areas of his life. With this new knowledge, Michael and I were able to set a basic map. While working in this session with Michael, I decided to use the basic map of task centred practice that is discussed by Trevthick.P (2005). The reason I used this specific map instead of the other process described by Payne.M (1997) was because the basic map overall described four basic steps that would be beneficial to the sessions I had with Michael. According to Trevthick.P (2005) a basic map of a task centred approach consists of four steps. These steps are as follows, step one would be targeting three main problems the client has. Through the recovery star there were certain areas Michael wanted to improve on, which was his living skills i.e. cooking and cleaning and also his literacy skills. Step two consisted of a contract which was setting up a plan to achieve these goals successfully and set a time frame for when these would be completed. This was competed by researching the resources that were in the community in regards to the literacy classes and possible cooking classes and looking at the time scale of when Michael would like to accomplish these goals. Step three consists of problem solving which would be solving any problems that would arise for me or Michael in regards to the sessions that take place. For example whil e working towards improving Michaels literacy skills it was evident that Michael would need one to one tutoring and this wouldn’t be possible for several months, although Michael was adamant to start in which he decided to start in a group. In result as the student social worker I know I will have to support, encourage and motivate Michael in this process as he may find it challenging to be part of a group of sixteen. Finally step four is termination in which will commence when I start to finish up in my placement and hope that Michael will continue with his goals with his own social worker. At this present time because of Michael’s background and his diagnosis this method has been successful to date. I have also been able to use a person centred approach along with the task centred approach with Michael throughout this process in order to allow Michael to open up about his feelings and be honest about what is going on for him at that time and in result has allowed Mic hael to achieve positive outcomes within our daily sessions. In regards to the task centred approach that I have undertaken with Michael, at present it has been successful as it looks at the three main problems that he would like to improve on within the short space of time that I will be working with him. By using this approach it was evident that Michael felt motivated to complete these goals as he focused on the three main issues he had in his life. According to Trevthick.P (2005) it can be very difficult to engage in the underlining issues that may be present. In my opinion and the evidence from conducting sessions with Michael this is quite accurate as it can be difficult to engage Michael in certain difficult conversations from his past from a task centred approach. Although by using a person centred approach when discussing these difficult conversations can be suitable as this approach allows him to discuss these issues calmly and reflect on the situation that he may find difficult. For example by using this approach, it allowed Michael to open up about his daughters and the relationship he has with them and how he wants it to improve. He was also able to realise that he wanted to do something about his literacy skills and how this issue could be a barrier for him when searching for a job. By conducting a task centred approach and completing the recovery star I discovered this about Michael and was able to use the person centred approach to discuss it in more depth. Although even though it is discussed that a task centred approach is chosen because it allows the goals to be achievable, it can be difficult for those who may suffer from a mental health illness. Some individuals may find it difficult to achieve the goals that have been set, although at that time it is important for the social worker and client to be able to feedback any difficulties that have arisen and be able to change in accordance with the individual. For example while working with Michael it can be difficult for him in regards to his mental heal th, so throughout our sessions I ensure that near the end of each session Michael is able to understand what was discussed and his understanding and ensure that he is still motivated in regards to the goals that he has set for himself. In conclusion, it is evident that the ongoing weekly sessions with Michael have been beneficial in regards to a task centred approach. The reason for this is that Michael can concentrate on three specific goals at a time and doesn’t feel overloaded. From working with Michael on a one to one basis, his history and mental health status, this approach is working in a positive way in regards to what Michael wants to achieve. From previous case notes it has been noted of other methods that have been tried and failed to motivate and encourage Michael. This approach does have its limits for example it doesn’t allow the client to discuss their issues in detail, although that is when the social worker can incorporate other approaches into their work with the client. Throughout my work with Michael this approach has been favourable as with this client it has achieved positive results, while I am also aware that this may not be the case with every client that I encounter. Although while managing this case I plan to continue with this method and incorporate various approaches as needed in order to work in partnership with Michael to achieve his goals while anticipating a positive outcome. References Adams. R, Dominelli, Payne.M (2002). Social Work: Themes, Issues and Critical Debates. 2nd ed. Hampshire: Palgrave. P191-199 Teater. B (2010). An Introduction to Applying Social Work Theories and Methods. Berkshire: Open University Press, McGraw Hill Education. P178-193 Nelson – Jones. R (1992). The Theory and Practice of Counselling Psychology. London: Holt, Rinehart and Winston LTD. P107-120 Payne. M (1997). Modern Social Work Theory. 2nd ed. Hampshire: Palgrave. P104-112 Trevithick. P (2005). Social Work Skills: A practice handbook. 2nd ed. Berkshire: Open University Press, McGraw Hill Education. P95-98, P275-277 Recovery Star

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Grapes of Wrath   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The book, Grapes of Wrath, follows the life of the Joad family, who live in Oklahoma during the Depression. The story begins with the return of Tom Joad from prison, where he has spent the last few years. He killed a boy in a bar fight and is now on parole. He is taken by surprise when he returns to Oklahoma only to find that his house is in ruins and his family is not there. He doesn’t know that, while he was gone, the banks forced his family and thousands of others off their land. Tom is accompanied by a former priest, Casey, who searches with Tom for his family. Tom and Casey find the Joad family at Tom’s uncle’s house. The family is preparing to move west to California in hopes that they will find jobs and escape the Dust Bowl drought. The Dust Bowl drought has killed all the farmer’s crops and the land has lost it’s richness. Tom decides to travel with his family, even though he’s going against parole rules by leaving the state. The Joads travel west with all twelve members of the family and Casey piled into an old truck. The trip to California proves to be hard when their grandpa dies just days after their departure. Truck problems are regular occurrences and the penetrating heat tires the migrating family. They have very little money and they have many family members to feed as well as gas to buy. Tom is warned by families going back east that there are no job opportunities in California. They say the Joads will be forc...

Jessica in Ther Merchant of Venice

Jessica in The Merchant of Venice In The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare introduces his audience to the multi dimensional character of Jessica. Jessica is identified as the daughter of a Jewish Merchant but the audience learns she is much more than that. As the play moves along and Jessica marries a Christian man, Jessica’s identity as a Jewish woman is challenged. Although a minor character in the play, she is important because she makes the audience question what it means to be Jewish and therefore what it means to be Christian.The differences between Judaism and Christianity in the play are shown through Jessica’s relationships with Shylock and Lorenzo. The father daughter relationship that Jessica and Shylock share shows the audience values of Judaism. The two have a very rocky relationship through out the play and although it appears that Jessica is no more than a rebellious teenager, their relationships and interactions show the foundations of a Jewish family. Shy lock shows the rigid rules of the Jewish religion through how he treats Jessica at their home.What the audience knows about Jessica and Shylock’s history is that Shylock locks up Jessica in their house and she is not allowed out. Jessica then undoubtedly has resentment towards her father when she says â€Å"Our house is hell, and thou, a merry devil, / Didst rob it of some taste of tediousness† (2. 3. 1). It is clear to the audience that Shylock not only wants to lock up his daughter to the world he, also doesn't want Jessica to experience Venetian society when he says â€Å"lock up the doors† so the sounds of music don't drift in from the streets (2. 5. 5).It becomes very obvious that Jessica’s house is a strict, rule driven household that she does not appreciate or like. Jessica’s life under Shylock’s rules shows the rigidness of the Jewish religion that Jessica was brought up under. These instances, at the beginning of the play, show the audience what Jessica’s life as a Jew is like. It is not until we see Jessica’s transition into a Christian that we can see the differences between the two religions. Once Jessica runs away from home and marries Lorenzo, her life as a Jewish woman comes to an end. Through this transition of Jessica’s, we see outside opinions on Judaism and Christianity.When Jessica runs away from home to marry, a conversation is sparked between Lorenzo and his friend Gratiano. They have a conversation about why it is that Lorenzo loves Jessica. Lorenzo is trying to explain to Gratiano how Jessica does not fit the typical Jewish mold by saying â€Å"For she is wise, if I can judge of her/And fair she is, if that mine eyes be true/And true she is, as she hath proved herself†(2. 6. 53-55). From Lorenzo’s language when describing Jessica, it becomes clear that these Christians associate good traits such as fairness, intelligence, and truthfulness with being traits that most Jewish people do not possess.On the opposite end of the argument, the play has Shylock and his response to Jessica running away, getting married, and selling her mothers wedding ring. Shylock responds by saying â€Å"Out upon her! Thou torturest me, Tubal: it was my? turquoise; I had it of Leah when I was a bachelor: I would not have given it for a wilderness of monkeys. (3. 1. 14). Shylock is upset that his daughter would waste away her precious materials for something as foolish as a monkey. It is in this moment in the play that the audience see’s the new carefree lifestyle Jessica is living as a Christian when she denounces her mother’s ring.Shylock, who loves material possessions, is appalled by his daughter’s carless actions. The audience sees through Jessica’s transition from Jew to Christian and from the conversations sparked in characters from this action how the two different religious groups see each other. After her transition, Jessicaâ €™s relationship with her new husband also sparks different assumptions about religion. After Jessica marries Lorenzo, her life is literally transformed from a Jew to a Christian overnight. Through her final actions of the play, the audience can see how different her two worlds are.Her life with Lorenzo is one full of carefree fun and no material possessions. While her life with her father was one full of rules and restrictions. Once Jessica enters into this relationship with Lorenzo, the notion of what it means to be a Christian and what it means to be a Jew is questioned. Jessica’s two different lives represent the different stereotypes of the two religions. The Jewish people in this play are portrayed through Jessica and Shylock as being an old worldview of life. Shylock’s house is very strict, rule abiding, and oriented in hard work.While on the other hand, Lorenzo represents the New Testament, Christian view of the world where people are much more about living carefree and denouncing material possessions. When Jessica marries Lorenzo and becomes a Christian through marriage she also brings up another question about religion and what makes a person a Jew. Jessica is a Jew by birth but converts to Christianity through marriage. This brings about the question of is it birth or decision that makes a person a certain religion.Lancelot first brings this about when he claims that Jessica is damned because she was born Jewish in that he is referring to the fact that there is nothing she can do to undo being Jewish. The audience also sees many lines where the image of blood is brought up. Shylock refers to his daughter as â€Å"my own flesh and blood† (3. 1. 32) and Jessica states, â€Å"I am a daughter to his blood† (2. 3. 18). This image of blood that Jessica and Shylock share bonds them together and parallels the idea that Judaism runs in the blood, therefore is determined at birth.Although Lancelot seems to believe that Judaism runs in the blood, Jessica believes that she can overturn this by marrying Lorenzo. She states, â€Å"I shall be saved by my husband/He hath made me a Christian† (3. 5. 3). To her, Judaism is out of her because her husband, Lancelot, made her into a Christian through marriage. Here we see two differences in what the characters of the play believe makes a person Jewish. Lancelot believes Jessica is Jewish by birth, and Jessica believes that marrying Lorenzo can make her into a Christian. The character Jessica is important in The Merchant of Venice because of the questions she brings up about religion.Her relationship with her father shows her life as a Jew while her marriage to Lorenzo shows her conversion into a Christian. These two worlds of Jessica play off of each other and through them the audience is able to see the differences between Judaism and Christianity. Through Jessica’s transition from Jew to Christian, the audience is able to see the large differences be tween the Jewish and Christian characters in The Merchant of Venice. Works Cited Evans, G. , ed. The Riverside Shakespeare. 6th ed. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1974.

How to Recognize Common Figures of Speech

How to Recognize Common Figures of Speech Of the hundreds of figures of speech, many have similar or overlapping meanings. Here we offer simple definitions and examples of 30 common figures, drawing some basic distinctions between related terms. How to Recognize Common Figures of Speech For additional examples and more detailed discussions of each figurative device, click on the term to visit the entry in our glossary. Whats the difference between a metaphor and a simile?Both metaphors and similes express comparisons between two things that arent obviously alike. In a simile, the comparison is stated explicitly with the help of a word such as like or as: My love is like a red, red rose / Thats newly sprung in June. In a metaphor, the two things are linked or equated without using like or as: Love is a rose, but you better not pick it. Whats the difference between metaphor and metonymy?Put simply, metaphors make comparisons while metonyms make associations or substitutions. The place name Hollywood, for example, has become a metonym for the American film industry (and all the glitz and greed that go with it). Whats the difference between metaphor and personification?Personification is a particular type of metaphor that assigns the characteristics of a person to something non-human, as in this observation from Douglas Adams: He turned on the wipers again, but they still refused to feel that the exercise was worthwhile, and scraped and squeaked in protest. Whats the difference between personification and apostrophe?A rhetorical apostrophe not only animates something absent or non-living (as in personification) but also addresses it directly. For instance, in Johnny Mercers song Moon River, the river is apostrophized: Wherever youre going, Im going your way. Whats the difference between hyperbole and understatement?Both are attention-getting devices: hyperbole exaggerates the truth for emphasis while understatement says less and means more. To say that Uncle Wheezer is older than dirt is an example of hyperbole. To say that hes a bit long in the tooth is probably an understatement. Whats the difference between understatement and litotes?Litotes is a type of understatement in which an affirmative is expressed by negating its opposite. We might say litotically that Uncle Wheezer is no spring chicken and not as young as he used to be. Whats the difference between alliteration and assonance?Both create sound effects: alliteration through the repetition of an initial consonant sound (as in a peck of pickled peppers), and assonance through the repetition of similar vowel sounds in neighboring words (It beats . . . as it sweeps . . . as it cleans!). Whats the difference between onomatopoeia and homoioteleuton?Dont be put off by the fancy terms. They refer to some very familiar sound effects. Onomatopoeia (pronounced ON-a-MAT-a-PEE-a) refers to words (such as bow-wow and hiss) that imitate the sounds associated with the objects or actions they refer to. Homoioteleuton (pronounced ho-moi-o-te-LOO-ton) refers to similar sounds at the endings of words, phrases, or sentences (The quicker picker upper). Whats the difference between anaphora and epistrophe?Both involve the repetition of words or phrases. With anaphora, the repetition is at the beginning of successive clauses (as in the famous refrain in the final part of Dr. Kings I Have a Dream speech). With epistrophe (also known as epiphora), the repetition is at the end of successive clauses (When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child). Whats the difference between antithesis and chiasmus?Both are rhetorical balancing acts. In an antithesis, contrasting ideas are juxtaposed in balanced phrases or clauses (Love is an ideal thing, marriage a real thing). A chiasmus (also known as antimetabole) is a type of antithesis in which the second half of an expression is balanced against the first with the parts reversed (The first shall be last, and the last shall be first). Whats the difference between asyndeton and polysyndeton?These terms refer to contrasting ways of linking items in a series. An asyndetic style omits all conjunctions and separates the items with commas (They dove, splashed, floated, splashed, swam, snorted). A polysyndetic style places a conjunction after every item in the list.Whats the difference between a paradox and an oxymoron?Both involve apparent contradictions. A paradoxical statement appears to contradict itself (If you wish to preserve your secret, wrap it up in frankness). An oxymoron is a compressed paradox in which incongruous or contradictory terms appear side by side (a real phony).Whats the difference between a euphemism and a dysphemism?A euphemism involves the substitution of an inoffensive expression (such as passed away) for one that might be considered offensively explicit (died). In contrast, a dysphemism substitutes a harsher phrase (took a dirt nap) for a comparatively inoffensive one. Though often meant to sh ock or offend, dysphemisms may also serve as in-group markers to show camaraderie. Whats the difference between diacope and epizeuxis?Both involve the repetition of a word or phrase for emphasis. With diacope, the repetition is usually broken up by one or more intervening words: Youre not fully clean until youre Zestfully clean. In the case of epizeuxis, there are no interruptions: Im shocked, shocked to find that gambling is going on in here! Whats the difference between verbal irony and sarcasm?In both, words are used to convey the opposite of their literal meanings. Linguist John Haiman has drawn this key distinction between the two devices: [P]eople may be unintentionally ironic, but sarcasm requires intention. What is essential to sarcasm is that it is overt irony intentionally used by the speaker as a form of verbal aggression (Talk Is Cheap, 1998). Whats the difference between a tricolon and a tetracolon climax?Both refer to a series of words, phrases, or clauses in parallel form. A tricolon is a series of three members: Eye it, try it, buy it! A tetracolon climax is a series of four: He and we were a party of men walking together, seeing, hearing, feeling, understanding the same world.Whats the difference between a rhetorical question and epiplexis?A rhetorical question is asked merely for effect with no answer expected: Marriage is a wonderful institution, but who would want to live in an institution? Epiplexis is a type of rhetorical question whose purpose is to rebuke or reproach: Have you no shame?

Free Essays on John Kerry America

no actions of meaning you’re the youth of America. John Kerry and John Edwards understand that proving an American child with a strong education will help lead them to a successful life. Kerry and Edwards agree with Bush that every child should be held to higher standards, and every school should have all of the resources to help the child meet his/her full potential. However that’s about as far as that agreement goes. Every child should graduate High School and e... Free Essays on John Kerry America Free Essays on John Kerry America John Kerry’s experience as a Vietnam Vet and years of military service provide the experience that allows him to know, that the most basic responsibility of being president of the United States in to defend the homeland and its citizens. America has taken large steps since the attacks on September 11, 2001. However it has fallen into many holes along the way as we are in right now. John Kerry knows that we cannot take war to places that do not threaten our immediate freedoms; he also knows that losing over 1,000 soldiers of the American Armed forces is a horrible move. He has a plan to better coordinate the intelligence machine that America has at its fingertips. By bounding these communication loopholes it would better secure America from future terrorist attacks. His plans include a restructuring of the inelegance system that is our core anti-terrorism here on the homeland. Many whistleblowers have alerted the federal government that many states and large cities are not re ady if there was a nuclear or biochemical attack on the homeland. George Bush has put off these warnings and intelligence briefings causing a lack of security for the American public, Kerry will not allow this to happen on his watch. John Kerry knows this and is ready and has a plan to strengthen our domestic readiness. Durings Geroge Bush’s presidential campaign and now during his four years of office one of his key issues is his educational plan, most of his promises have been simply words no actions of meaning you’re the youth of America. John Kerry and John Edwards understand that proving an American child with a strong education will help lead them to a successful life. Kerry and Edwards agree with Bush that every child should be held to higher standards, and every school should have all of the resources to help the child meet his/her full potential. However that’s about as far as that agreement goes. Every child should graduate High School and e...

PATRIOT Act Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

PATRIOT Act - Essay Example This is because he explains that there is a need of submitting a leader who is not accountable to the people. The Patriot act on the other hand is a law enacted in 2001, aimed at fighting and preventing terrorism within the country. Thomas Hobbes in his book, the Leviathan, sets out to outline the best principles of government that can lead to prosperity, stability and peace. Thomas Hobbes begins his explanation of the role of the government, by explaining how life would be, without the government(Kitanov, 2011). Under this situation, life would be difficult and anarchic, because people would be engaged in carrying out anything that they want. They can kill, steal, or engage in activities aimed at frustrating their neighbors, just because they are strong. This is a condition that Thomas Hobbes refers to as, â€Å"The State of Nature†. For purposes of creating order within the society, there is a need of creating a social contract, and establishing a civil society (Hobbes and Schuhmann, 2003). This civil society should be governed by a sovereign authority who is not answerable to them (Kitanov, 2011). Furthermore, people within the society should cede some of their basic rights, for purposes of acquiring protection from the sovereign authority. Based on these facts, Thomas Hobbes believes that the doctrine of separation of powers does not exists, and this is because the sovereign must control the judiciary, the civil society, the military, and he must have the ecclesiastical powers (Hobbes and Schuhmann, 2003). Hobbes therefore explains that it is only through an absolute monarchy, that the society can be protected from the state of nature. By closely looking at these principles established by Thomas Hobbes, it is possible to explain that Hobbes was advocating for a dictatorship (Kitanov, 2011). This is a form of governance, where its citizens have very limited rights, and they cannot play a role in the governance

National Security Safeguards and Countermeasures Techniques Final Essay

National Security Safeguards and Countermeasures Techniques Final - Essay Example That promotes higher levels of responsibility since the executive is aware of the close supervision. Every item that makes it to the budget undergoes great consideration to determine the effect it would have on the budget and the reaction of the legislature on such expenditure. A shortfall of the concept is that it allows little or no breathing time. The executive and legislature are continually involved in the budgeting process. That may limit the time available to analyze government activities. The basis for the development of safeguards and countermeasures is the concern over the increasing threat of terrorist attacks. There has been great development in nuclear weaponry necessitating greater efforts to boost countermeasures and safeguards. The aim is to ensure national security and safety. Countermeasures help detect and identify any material with the potential to be converted into weapons that can be used in terrorism. 3. In National Security Safeguards and Countermeasures Techniques, reciprocity is necessary as it allows for the sharing of classified information, facilities and services by the different security agencies. That helps manage costs of