Shylock a villain or a victim of the society he lives in Essay Example

Shylock a villain or a victim of the society he lives in Essay In my opinion Shylock was a victim of the society he lived in. He was a victim because he was a minority in a Christian city where anti-Semitism played an important role in society. In the society in which Shylock lived, there was plenty of racism, so it was easy to paint a picture of Shylock as a villain on evil, based on stereotypical opinions for the society in which he lived. The target audience for which the play was written was largely a racist and a prejudiced audience, so they readily accepted Shylock in the role of Villain, without questioning whether this was an accurate assessment of his personality. Due to the target audience being racist, there is a bias in the way in which Shylock is portrayed, and does not always effectively portray what Shylock was feeling or thinking. Although in some cases Shakespeare did show that he did not have the stereotypical view of Shylock, which most certainly his audience did have. In this essay, I will be expressing my opinion on whether Shylock is a victim or a villain in the society that he lives in. I feel that, Shylock is a victim of the Elizabethan society in which he lived. He seems to be treated badly by everyone who he comes into contact with, including his own servant. We will write a custom essay sample on Shylock a villain or a victim of the society he lives in specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Shylock a villain or a victim of the society he lives in specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Shylock a villain or a victim of the society he lives in specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer It is really only his own kind who seems to respect and treat him properly. In Act 1 scene 3 Shylock is asked to loan 3000 ducats to Antonio by Bassanio. It looks or has been made to look as though Shylock is a villain, this is shown by using repetition, the repetition used in by Shylock is that he seems to mention well a lot, this makes Shylock look like he is planning something, for example how to get revenge on Antonio, also in the beginning of the act Shylock seems to come across as an evil character, this is when he is first introduced into the play. Shylock looks like a villain when he is asked by Bassanio to dine with Antonio, but Shylock replies I will not eat with you, drink with you nor pray with you this sentence made Shylock look like a villain, but if you had to look at it from his point of view, it would be that he has been hated and treated badly all his life by Christians. Then, when Antonio enters the scene you can see how Shylock is treated badly and is a victim in the society he lives in, this point is proven when Shylock says to Antonio You call me a misbeliever and Spit on my Jewish gabardine In the next few scenes in the play we find out that Jessica is ashamed of being Jewish, and consequently is ashamed of her father. She is not happy with her life, and she blames everything that goes wrong on the fact that she is Jewish. As she resents her difficulties and blames them on her religion she also resents her father, and blames him for being Jewish resulting in her also being Jewish, we find this out when Jessica says to Launcelot But though I am a daughter to his blood, I am not to his manners For example in Act 2 scene 3 we find out that Jessica thinks that where she lives is hell. She expresses her feeling to Lorenzo, saying to be ashamed to be my fathers child. This is another point which could make Shylock look like a villain because even his own daughter is ashamed to have him (Shylock) as a father, or this also could look as though Shylock is a victim because he has been victimized and arguments have been caused in his family due to his religion. Christians such as Lorenzo have changed his daughter they have made her ashamed of her own religion and her father. I also think that this does show that Shylock and Jessica do not have a very good relationship if their relationship was stronger she would be prouder of her heritage and less likely to blame everything that goes wrong on her father and their religion. She would accept the familys religion as an important part of her heritage and background, and not something to be ashamed of. In Act 2 scene 5 Shylock looks like a kill joy he seems to give Jessica no freedom and is always controlling her, and not leaving her on her own. This could be because he is in fear of what might happen to her, and thus his controlling her is just Shylocks way of making sure that nothing happens to her, as he wants her to be protected. However because Shylock is portrayed in such a negative way, his control over Jessica could be incorrectly seen as unreasonable and evil so one again he looks like a villain. In this scene there are very good examples which shows how much hatred Shylock has towards Christians for example But yet Ill go in hate, to feed upon the prodigal Christian. In this scene there is dramatic irony, this is when the audience know what is happening and some of the characters do not know what is happening. The use of dramatic irony is used when, Shylock explains his dreams, and he says that he is going to lose something. This is ironic because his daughter Jessica was planning to run away and take all of Shylocks money with her. In Act 3 Shylock seems to be loosing everything he has. His own daughter Jessica had run away and had also stolen all of his precious jewels, and he had done nothing to deserve this. To an audience in Shakespeares time this would look completely normally, they would not understand how upset Shylock probably was, but to a modern audience we can see that he is a victim of society, and there was nothing he could have done to prevent it from happening. The only thing he could do was take revenge from his bond, in my opinion this does not make him a villain because personally I think most people would want revenge on something or anything if that much had happened to them, as it is human nature. To bait fish withal. If it will feed nothing else, it will feed my revenge. This shows how he wants to take his revenge on Antonio because now he finally has the chance to do what ever he can do. In act 3 scene 3 Antonios attitude changes towards Shylock for example he says hear me yet good Shylock this shows that he is a coward and is willing to beg for his life, and he is begging to the person he once spat on, and swore at, so at this point Shylock deserves to be a villain and stand up against his sworn enemy. In Act 4 scene 1 at the beginning Shylock has been made to look like a villain, at this point it looks at though Shylock is going to get his revenge, the one thing he has been waiting for, for his whole life: making him look like a villain and yes I do think he is a villain at this point in time, but only because he has been pushed and pushed by the Christians. He also looks like a really bad villain towards a Shakespearean audience as he has been asked to show mercy but he doesnt. This is shown that Shylock wont give mercy as he uses repetition and repeats many times in six thousand ducats I would not draw them I would have my bond But then in the end or near to the end it seems as though Shylocks luck has changed, and there is dramatic irony used, as the audience know that Shylock is being tricked by Portia, whereas Shylock things that the young lawyer is from a distant city. In the end of the scene Shylock is a victim of society as he has been told that if a drop of a Christians blood is spilt then all his good will be taken away from him. So where he was the villain, then the tables had turned against him, and they not only took his bond away from him, but they also took all his possessions from him, leaving him with nothing and also making him a victim of society. This is also ironic, as when Shylock had the upper hand against his enemies they all begged him for mercy, and told him that what he is doing is wrong, but when the tables had turned against Shylock and he was now the victim, and the Christian society had the upper hand, they did not show that they were better than him and give him mercy, as they had begged him for. This all shows that in the end Shylock was the Victim, and that the society he lived in was the villain towards him, and other Jews. So to summarize in my opinion I believe that shylock was a victim and a villain of the society he lived in, he was a victim due to the fact that he was a minority amongst Christians, and during his time there was a lot of racism against him and his religion, I also believe that Shylock was a villain in some ways because the society had driven him to be villainess meaning that because he was treated so badly, that every time he could get his own revenge back against the Christians he did try to do that, making it look like he is the villain to a Shakespearean audience.

Theorist of Choice

Theorist of Choice In an effort to explain sociology based on how relevant it is in daily life, many sociologists today find the term sociological imagination coined by C. Wright Mills inevitable in their discussions. Through his work under a similar name, Wright Mills stands out as the most appealing sociological theorist to me.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Theorist of Choice specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Therefore, as pointed out by Mills, sociological imagination gives me a deep insight of the nature of sociology. It goes further to shed light on how it directly connects with the lives of individuals in the contemporary society. However, one might want to know what sociological imagination entails. Sociological imagination through Mills’ own words is the capacity to shift from one perspective to another. In other words, it is the capacity to range from the most impersonal and remote transformations to the intimate featu res of the human self, and to see the relations between the two of them (Mills, 1959, p. 3). The ability to connect between the two, according to Mills, is the driving force behind sociological imagination. The key to this theory is the reality of the existence of public issues, as well as private troubles. Public issues originate from the society. They go down to individuals who take them as being a result of their personal failures rather than seeing them for what they ought to be. On the other hand, private troubles arise because of a personal character. For instance, in a society where jobs are hard to get, circumstances may force a person to accept that he is not working simply because he is lazy. This, however, may turn out to be a public issue when many people cannot find anywhere to work, hence forced to stay idle. Wright Mills, through sociological imagination theory, gives an emphasis that sociology mostly focuses on the manner in which social institutions and forces shape the individual behaviors of people in the society. It shows how the affected people respond to the influence. By being able to see the bigger picture, and derive connections between public issues and private troubles, a person is more enlightened and aware of the happenings in his society. According to Brewer (2005, p.134), people will always be interested if their personal problems can be addressed merely by solving other external factors. It is pertinent to note that, when addressing issues in the society, it is indispensable to do so with the inspiration from Mills’ sociological imagination to see the issue in totality. By so doing, one stands a better chance to address it comprehensively.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is only through the ability to see the larger picture, as put forth by Mills, that people can derive sociological solutions and explanat ions. Other theorists under the inspiration of Mills came up with explanations on how some things happen in the society (Vissing, 2011, Para.3). For instance, Mills’ work formed a basis for theorists such as Emile Durkheim who came up with a theory to explain suicide in societies. The sociological imagination theory has, therefore, proven concrete since other scholars in the discipline view it as the only elaborate theory that brings forth reliable sociological explanations. In conclusion, a sociological theory should aim at giving details on sociological problems. By providing an avenue for one to relate issues in his/her private lives with the happenings in the society, Mills’ theory ensures that the real causes of problems in the society are analyzed. It provides accurate solutions to avoid future occurrence of such problems. Reference List Brewer, J. (2005). â€Å"The Public and the Private in C. Wright Mills Life and Work†.  Sociology, 39(4), 661-677. Mil ls, W. (1959). The Sociological Imagination. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Vissing, Y. (2011). Introduction to Sociology. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Web.

Contemporary Issues in Eastern Religion - Jainism Research Paper

Contemporary Issues in Eastern Religion - Jainism - Research Paper Example 1). The core beliefs of Jainism focus on the existence of the soul for every living being, karmas, and the concept of non-violence, among others. These beliefs were deeply rooted in Indian traditions and belief in reincarnation and karma. As closely related to Hinduism, Marett indicated that â€Å"in many ways the Jain community has been influenced by the customs and traditions of the larger Hindu community. Jain influence on Hinduism must include non-violence and vegetarianism Mahatma Gandhi, as is well-known, was deeply influenced, particularly in his attitude to non-violence by the Jains† (n.d., par. 5). In contrast to the predominant religions of the West, like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, Jainism’s interaction with them are manifested in ways of communal living. As opposed to Christianity and Islam, religions that believe in a supreme being, Judaism and Jainism, â€Å"is both a religion and a community, a close-knit community with a way of life and worship which keeps religion in a central place in society. Unlike Jainism the religion of Judaism centers around the worship of a single all-powerful creator God. The code of right and wrong is strict but Judaism pays less attention to life after death than almost any other religion† (Marett, n.d., par. 7). Likewise, as averred by Ahmad (2010), â€Å"through various  interactions in India, Jainism had an influence on Hinduism and Buddhism, and they share concepts such as the seeking of freedom from  worldly life and reincarnation of the soul. Some scholars suggest that Hinduism adopted vegetarianism through strong Jain influence across India† (par.6). In the modern world, Jainism’s influence could be exemplified by the practices of monks and nuns who believe in celibacy and adhering to austere lifestyle. By living in a community committed to peace and non-violence, the traditions of Jainism are manifested. Further, devotees of Jainism are known to be vegetarians

Physical security requirements Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Physical security requirements - Essay Example uting to the problem are diverse; size of the building, anonymity inside the precincts of the building, contents of the building, characteristics of occupants, location and physical features. Every door in a tall building is supposed to have a working lock at all times for security of those using the different rooms. The doors and windows are supposed to be reinforced, fitted with intrusion alarms to whine away when someone intrudes in. lighting must be feasible at all times with a back-up generator in place just in case there is a power outage. Perimeters gates, fences and bollards are supposed to be erected all round to prevent unnecessary access by intruders. Physical security hardens a building and makes it inaccessible to the unwanted publics. Some offenders however see increased security as a threat to their ingenuity (Cofer, 2013). CCTV is a primary part of security of any building. Internet based CCTV can also be installed so that all security concerns about the building can be monitored elsewhere. This means that one does not have to be in the building to view the security concerns in it. It should however be noted that CCTV is quite open and seen and therefore interferes with the open offences that would have taken place. Once this is known, there is always a counter plan by the offenders. These should be erected in all possible places; the elevators, lobbies and along adjacent sidewalks. Three concepts address the aspect of physical design. Physical design determines the design of physical security. The first is creation of ‘defensible space’. Challinger (2008) stipulated that crime rate with reference to buildings increased as the number of floors increased. Situational crime prevention is also a fact under design of the building. A modification of environmental factors has to be made to reduce crime in the building. In the case of CPTED, all the workers in the building will be required to be aware of their situations and be responsible for

Internet and Modern Technology Essay Example for Free

Internet and Modern Technology Essay There are many forms of modern technology that have played important roles throughout my life, and the computer has affected my life the most. There are both positive and negatives aspects on how the computer has helped me. There are also advantages and disadvantages to this form of modern technology, called the computer. The first and foremost advantage of the computer is how it has helped me with my school work. With having Google, Dictionary, and Ask, these are sources on the computer that are very helpful with getting information. It is a lot faster and more convenient. Another thing I love about it, is the communication you can have with friends and family. With Facebook, email, and Skype, it’s a lot faster and easier way to communicate with your loved ones. I feel that one of the most important is that these communication avenues are free. Even though I use a lot of these technologies almost daily they can also cause distractions. On the down side, some of the negatives aspects of technology with computers are that it can be an expensive form of access to information. Also not only do you have to pay for the computer but you also have to pay for the internet access to get to some of these information sites. Another down fall is the networks do shut down. So if you are doing homework or talking with friends it can sometimes aimlessly stop working. Another negative to having a computer is it can affect people’s work ethic, by looking at Facebook, or playing online games. So they aren’t getting their job done. Knowing there are still disadvantages to computers there are still advantages in using it correctly. As a conclusion to technology and the ever ways it has changed and will change in the future. Hopefully some of the changes will be headed for advantages for the future, in a form of no charge for internet access, and not having to worry about towers going down. Also for the younger generations to know how to still look information without taking advantages of everything being at their fingertips. Unfortunately we cannot see into the future to see what advantages and disadvantages are in store for us, but hopefully they are for the better and I am very thankful for the modern technology that is available and the advantages it has for me.

American Conservatism Essay -- Politics United States History

American Conservatism Beginning with Nixon and continuing with Reagan after the radical changes of American culture in the sixties and seventies, Americans would begin to shift towards more conservative ideas unsure of the rapid radical change. In the 1994 mid term elections, the American people would elect a congress of mostly conservatives for the first time in nearly 50 years. At the core of this success would be the Contract with America. A set of promises and goals devised by conservative congressional representative Newt Gingrich. In 2000 the Republicans (modern conservative party) would retain the Congress and capture the White House. Conservatism has been a leading political ideology since the inception of the United States to recent Presidential and Congressional elections. Over the last 230 years, conservative ideas in America would evolve to become a distinct brand of conservatism. The first conservative party in the newly formed United States of America was the Federalist. The Federalist were made up of several of the founding fathers including John Adams and Alexander Hamilton. John Adams a "Massachusetts lawyer spent the greater part of his life declaring, with perfect indifference to popularity, that freedom can be achieved and retained by sober men who take humanity as it is, not as humanity should be" is often cited as the founder of conservatism in an America (Kirk 71). They favored a strong central government that would protect the rights of property owners. They also favored little radical change after the Revolutionary War and retained a sense of social class apparent in the British Government. These parties tended to be supported by the businessmen of the time and those residing in smaller states. ... ...ervative tenets. This is a draw back of the two party system in which compromise must be made in order to form a viable political party. In that case, one may say the Republicans have been successful, yet they have only been so at the cost of their conservative ideology. Although it is also viable to say that since the Republican Party is the only major outlet for conservatism, conservatism has been relatively successful. The Republican Party will continue to evolve but will likely be the major source of conservatism in America for years to come. Hence as the Republican Party evolves American Conservatism will evolve. Works Cited Hauss, Charles. Comparative Politics: Domestic Responses to Global Challenges. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth, 2003. Kirk, Russell. The Conservative Mind: From Burke to Eliot. Washington, D.C: Regnery Publishing Inc, 2001.

Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time review Essay

Plot: Christopher Boone lives with his father in a village. His mother died when he was younger from a heart-attack and the dad was left alone with the challenge of upbringing an autistic child who does not respond like a normal child would. The father has limited money and mental stimulants for the child and does his best to hold back his frustration. However, the reader soon learns that Chris has not been told the complete truth and perhaps that the people he loves have a hidden past. He then begins to understand what has happened and Mark Haddon portrays the challenges he is faced with without the constant safeguarding he needs to feel secure. My Thoughts: I understand that this book is renowned and took the book sales by storm; managing to pick up â€Å"Best novel† and â€Å"Book of the Year† at the Whitbread book awards in 2003, but I do not find it at all appealing. I find myself unable to sympathise with Chris despite Haddon’s brilliant depiction of the mind of a child with autism, as Haddon does writes convincingly through the eyes of an autistic child. I do not think that this is a book that revolves around Asbergers; but instead about being different in general and Haddon is trying to make us see the world through a different lens. He just uses Asbergers as a means of conveying this. Furthermore, as Chris is very rational yet unemotional, there is no depth of character in the novel as Chris is only able to see the world through one plane and cannot build up good character depth, which most popular books have, eg. – â€Å"Harry Potter† and â€Å"The Lord of the Rings†. This direct approach also means that there is no humour apart from the main reoccurring joke of how Chris responds to things which lands im in all sorts of faux pas, (and the novelty of this soon wears off). However, this does not mean to say that I do not understand why it is so popular; it just isn’t something that really enraptured me, and to be honest, it seemed like a waste for a storyline that had the potential to be so rich in dramatic emphasis to be written in such a simplistic style. I have given it two stars but the average for this book is a four/five. Recommendations: If you liked this book I would strongly recommend these as they are both written in a diary style and are about people who do not necessarily fit the norm. The Diary of Adrian Mole (4/5) Molesworth (5/5)