Blog Entry: Final Essay

During fall session one semester (2010), both my writing skill and web experience improved academically. Actually, my ENG 102 professor, whose name is Doctor Jason Smith, provided me with the curriculum which enabled me to achieve this academic goal. At first, after reading all the details he outlined on his class syllabus, I felt discouraged about the blog essay writing which he mentioned because my computing skills were limited. Thus, I decided that it would be better if I drop or change the class, because my internet ability at the time was definitely premature. However, I was convinced by the manner which the professor uses to teach. He was patient enough to see that every student like myself learn how to browse the web for research information, create a personal Blog profile, use Google documents, edit and publish class projects online. Furthermore, the professor established a system of group alliance wherein projects where sometimes done through teamwork rather as individuals.

In addition, one of the most exciting aspects from my ENG 102 class experience ended up being the introduction of Blog entries. Nonetheless, this notion for students to post their essays on a Blog for everyone to comment seemed potentially devastating for many at first. Literally, it is possible for someone to write negative comments on your wall whether or not you are a good writer. Fortunately, such types of conducts never happened. Instead, I was encouraged by the great comments made by different people whenever I make grammatical errors and how they sometime appreciate my writing. For example, out of all the comments made on my blog entries, I was intrigued by a comment made by Jonny Werewolf “Very interesting…you didn’t base your story on a fictional character” (blog entry 2.2). It was another way of saying that I should be very careful and critical when writing for online purposes.

Finally, this idea wherein every student from Professor, Smith’s class would have to publish their essays online brought forth another platform for students to compare and contrast. The blog postings were not limited just to people reading your essays but also for you to look at others and make evaluations. As a result, I learned a lot from frequently perusing the website especially the most interesting blog posts. For instance, after browsing through many of the student’s blog post, I was impressed with Rianna Faires final project based on different archetypes (blog series 4.3). Therefore, we can all glimpse on other students work to make comparison.

In conclusion, my ENG 102 course felt extremely challenging at the beginning but with some effort and motivation I endured more than I expected. Currently from an academic stand point, my ability in writing, browsing the internet and also working as a team has developed tremendously. I am grateful for this opportunity and hope that the college would provide such modification to other courses as well.

Blog Entry: 4.5 (Capoeira) Final Project

Since childhood, I developed a passion for anything to do with me being protected. Self defense was for sure my only way out. At the age of eleven, I had my first opportunity to be in a place called Dojo, a martial arts academy. However, I took advantage of this discovery which in turn made me physically invincible. Martial arts come from different sorts of people and ancient cultures. Nonetheless, most of the prominent martial arts known worlwide come from Asia culture. Notwithstanding the fact, martial art provides a sense of discipline that can enhance the spiritual being on anyone. That is to say, you can prevail by acquiring divine peace within yourself. As a result, I took the courage to improve my skills from being an ordinary karate kid to other sophisticated arts such as taekwondo, jujitsu and more. Moreover, in the year 2000, I discovered another breed of martial art which I find to be the most fascinating of all. It is absolutely different from every other art because it comprises of both music and combat. My first exposure to this masterpiece was in the form of a movie. The name of the movie is "Only the Strong" which was released in the year 2000. Perhaps my inability to the Internet  at the time kept me away from this magnificent innovation. Despite being overwhelmed about the things I found interesting in the movie, at the end of the day I believed it was just a fictional movie like any other graphical type. In all, I did not end my adventure there but pursued despite of my pre-evaluation.

Now to the real story, during the sixteen century, the slaves in South America formed a rebellious movement called Capoeira. This movement was originated in a place called Quilombo dos palmares in Brazil between the eras, 1620 to 1653. The slaves developed this idea of defense which will be their method of protection against the harsh and oppressive conditions they lived. It was more beneficial to those slaves who wanted to escape or rebel against their matsres. The initial intention of Capoeira was for entertainment which later transformed to a system of self-defense. This movement was one of the most successfully system of recruitment used by slaves to avoid suspicion by their dictators. The slave masters thought the slaves were only having entertainment, only to know later that they were fooled. On the contrary, it was not until the slaves had become skilled fighters that masters were able to realized how blindfolded they were. Finally, the art was banned around seventeenth century by the government at the time. Capoeira was developed from the basis of multicultural ideas. It symbolizes the dance moves from most of every tribe at the time and even some contemporary slaves from other parts of the world like India. In other words, ancient Africans copied the dance pattern from certain domestic animals like monkeys. The reason I guess for this was that, most of everyone at the time thought monkeys were very funny and entertaining. However, it was a perfect way to disguise because it can be underestimated compared to a real training exercise. What was clear about the dance was that they did many somersaults, jumping from place to place and tackle each other in a friendly manner. In this regard, every demonstration that was displayed had to do with no violence. This was indeed more than just entertainment because the amount of reflex and ability to twist while up in the air all at once can also be view as supernatural abilities.

In addition, one of the most intriguing moments I admired most, was the kind of instruments used during Bateria (Capoeira performances). Surprisingly, most of the instruments they used can be found in places like Sierra Leone, Ghana, Senegal and others. For example, the instruments called Agogo, Reco-Reco and the Berimbaus, are used by some west African tribes during their traditional ritual ceremonies. It was an astounding discovery for me especially that I ma from Africa. Although, the languages used for the songs were in Portuguese and Spanish, which I do not speak however, the tunes were similar to some West African traditional tunes. Going back to the point, I spent an hour learning some of the beginner's routine which was invigorating. For example, I did some of the common sweep kick, take down, hand strike, cartwheel, head spin, elbow strike and finally the knee strike. Naturally, from a warrior archetype stand point, I felt the connection that which exists within me and Capoeira arts. When you find yourself in a place where you really belong, it is easy to comply with the new adaptation. Furthermore, in order to demonstrate any of the routines of Capoeira, one will require to teamwork with other participant.

In order to achieve the best results on any adventure, one will have to not only ready mentally but also physically. Capoeira has being my most anticipated of all martial arts. After realizing that now was the best time to accomplish my long awaiting dream, I first search for the closest Capoeira institution I can find in my neighborhood. As a result, I first made a call to one of the most prominent academies called AMADA Group. Furthermore, I found out that there are two well known Capoeira academies in New York, the AMADA and Omulu Group. I finally decided to work with the Arte Capoeira Center located at #1 East 28th which is part of the AMADA society. I spoke to Macuiu on the phone, one of the senior instructors and he gave me an appointment for December 4th 2010. I was excited about the commencement of my reality but unfortuately I was naive. I imagined myself to be in a bad shape for such a tremendous workout and that may be I need some more time before I can begin training. Nevertheless, I went there on the day of my appointment and told the instructor my reason for being there. The instructor who welcomed me at the Dojo was again Macuiu. He introduced me to nearly everyone which was extremely encouraging for me. He encouraged me by giving detailed background and personal experience of his years in Capoeira. I was impressed with his lengthy historic background and experience about Capoeira. In addition, he explained to me about both the spiritual and physical benefits acquired through the science of Capoeira. Also he emphasized on the point that, Capoeira is a combination of fitness and entertainment that which uplifts ones inner well being. In spite of all the energy consumed during training and the combat techniques taught to students, Capoeira is not specifically for the purpose of fighting. Capoeira more or less endures peace of mind to to all those who seek to use their body in an extraordinary way. Although, Capoeira is not a total fighting scheme but if you find yourself in an unprecedented situation, you are bound to defend yourself with all that is gained. This, I felt privileged to be in such an atmosphere watching some of the students demonstrating some of the incredible routines. 

In addition, because I told the instructors that I was a student from LaGuardia Community College and that I was doing a research project, they provided me with one week of free training classes. After spending thirty minutes with them, I finally told them a little background about my personal life and why I chose to use Capoeira for my school research project. They were extremely impressed with me and commended me for connecting the aspects of Capoeira to an educational institution of New York. It was a great adventure for me and I scheduled to be there on the 8th of December for my first day of real training.
Often, we hear many people say the phrase, no pain no gain. This metaphoric expression relates to real life by which we make sacrifices to achieve our goals. The culture of Capoeira is to get in shape, promote your inner peace and be happy. In spite of what I anticipated, I knew that for me to gain the best out of my quest, I will have to reconcile with myself. My first day of training was exciting but difficult. To begin training, you must first take off all shoes and put on a complete white attire. The drills were nothing close to what I expected. Most of other types of martial arts exercises have common similarities but not with Capoeira. The reason being is that Capoeira originate from a different concept which has nothing to do with fighting. Imagine you are in a dance class and instead of your instructor teaching you dance moves he is showing you how to change a flat tire. On the contrary, slaves transformed the use Capoeira from an entertainment stand point to a system of emancipation which helped them to overcome their struggle.

During my first day of training, my instructors taught me how to avoid getting injuries especially when doing stretch exercises. Most of what I thought I knew before was a totally different story. I tried to defy my instinct of negativity and utilized my sense of invincibility. Virtually, I did most of all the routines they taught me. Amazingly the music they played felt so harmonious which also synced with every movement we incorporated. Thus, at the end, I was pleased that our expectations were met. The name given to the ritual that is done during Capoeira practice is called Chamada. The word Chamada implies a call for an opponent challenger. When you find yourself in the Bateria and you are called to be an opponent challenger, you must go in the play even if you are unfit or else you will be humiliated. Unfortunately for me, I did not find myself in that situation the first day of training but hopefully I will partake on my next day of practice.

In conclusion, it has being a great pleasure to be part of a historic cult that was formed by some of my ancestors in the sixteenth century as a movement to liberation. Mostly, I have finally accomplished a one of my utmost anticipation of martial arts. Capoeira is not only a sport that enhances the physical being of anyone but also develops the inner spiritual being. As a result from the extravagance of art which comprises of music and battle dance. In otherwords, we can also say Capoeira is a simultaneous dance party at war.

Blog Entry: Capoeira Research Project: Weekly Update

I made a lot of  progress on my research project today. I was able to gather so many information on the history of Capoeira. Now that I know so much about the fundamentals ideas of this combative entertainment, I can relate some of the psychological aspects and try to implement them. My research is going to be based on two kinds of ideas that are linked together: learning the physical art and writing about the history and my experience in detail. I look forward to accomplish my project by next week with all the necessary materials I can find.   

Blog Entry (4.1) Weekly Updates. Supernatural Dance (Capoeira)

    

 Now that I have confirmation from my professor and classmates to go ahead with my research project on the supernatural dance called  Capoeira, I will first and foremost look for the closest institition in my community and sign up for classes. Well indeed, I was able to find one in Queens, Astoria. The instructor's name is Coruja and we had a lengthy discussion on the reason for my call and the future looks bright. The most significant reason for this move is not just to know the theoretical aspect of my resarch but also to be able to achieve some of the physical gist behind the art. It seem a little expensive than I thought but I have to do this once and for all. I am a martial artist with lots of experience on Shotukan karate but now I am taking it beyond the duty of self defence to supernatural dancing defence.

    I think, it is another way to expand my knowledge in the field of art and also to incorperate a worldwide perception on how things can be done differently. Furthermore, I understand from reading some of the history behind the scene that this dance has somewhat to do with slaves from Africa during the eighteenth century. Like any other African I believe this must be exciting. I am not sure if I have such amount of reflex input which I see other have while partaking in the dance but I will do my best as time goes. I would like to suspend my whole body in the air like I see some of them do and be able to display the many stunts that they do. I will take clips of myself entering the Dujo with no skill and after weeks of training I will show clips of what I learned during those periods. I hope my viewers will enjoy this epic drill of a dance fight.

These are my findings for this week 11/18/10

Blog Entry (3.5) Coraline...

Coraline

As humans, we sometimes view the world around us from different perspective. In this regard, our beliefs and interest ends up depending on a social and psychological path. Furthermore, this type of ideology has helped us to develop and also frame most of the human archetypes. Nonetheless, due to this trend, I am able to depict my primary inner being as a warrior archetype. Most of the special characteristics that I naturally possess are innovation, leadership, honesty and braveness. All of these qualities made me very unique compared to all other archetypes. In contrast, life has two sides to every story and that being said, some of the negatives of being a warrior archetype can be: impatience, aggressive, bold and overconfident. As a result, I can use some of these descriptions to affiliate myself to the lead character in the story, Coraline.

If I may go back to my childhood moments, I can reflect to some of what Coraline did especially at the age of nine. I know at least how she felt being all alone by herself most of the time. Despite the fact that we did not have exactly the same parental stories but they are somewhat similar. In addition, I remember times in my childhood when I was mostly left by myself and I became so bored which lead to strange discoveries. My parents were also separated and for the worst part, I had no brother or sister or even close friends. This reminds me of what Coraline went through herself being alone and why she asked herself, “What should I do?” (17). On the other hand, my best moments of the day were during school periods. I had a lot of friends to joggle around with though after school hours it was a different story, bored as hell! In all, I felt the worst when school sessions were over and holiday periods were back. Despite all being said, living in such a condition with barely cared for parent’s can leads to strange behaviors and childhood exploration (73).

Warriors are like explores, they always create or try to discover the unknown. Ultimately, Caroline discovered a lot of stuffs as most warrior archetypes will, whether young or old. In my own words, my personal description of a warrior is “unstable as an electron.” From a vantage point of view, we can adhere to the facts narrated in the story about Coraline, that she indeed explore and discover many things. She discovered: “the hot water tank ‘21 windows, 14 doors’ and a brown wooden door... that was locked” (8). During my childhood days, about her age, I use to go to closest lake or river in my community which was mostly forbidden for kids to do, just to look for a special marble stone called Kaykayray. The reason why this search for the devil’s stone was important to me was that, it has a mystical story behind it. In my tradition, it is believed that this kind of stone gives supernatural powers just as the talisma that was given to Caroline in the story. I wanted to prove the ancient myth if it was indeed true or false. Like Coraline, pursued all warnings at the door even though the message implied “don’t go through the door” (16) she insisted. Thus, this was due to the control of her inner warrior archetype.

Warriors are relentless in getting result. They are not afraid and will do what it takes to get the facts, whether through supernatural or by practical means. For instance, another character in Coraline’s story Miss Spink, once admired the enthusiasm and leadership drive in Coraline. As a result, she expressed her emotions by saying “What an extraordinary child” (156). It is important for anyone, whether old or young to display some amount of creativity especially when things seem unnatural or abnormal. Warriors never quit, instead they will sacrifice all it takes or even give their own life to save others. Coraline was more or less of that character in the story. However, she was inspired by her boredom to explore but she eventually ended up saving others by persuading the goddess which was a high stake risk (62). From a common point of view, we all know that most times things do not go as we wish but we at least try to manage by doing our best to prevail. Perhaps, this could be one reason why it is important to have a some leadership spirit in everyone. It is obvious that, most of what Coraline encountered in the story, she displayed a great amount of boldness and loyalty. She was relentless in achieving success even when victory seemed impossible. She was always prepared for the worst case scenario whether it is a “satisfying clunk” (26) or a “loud clunk” (58). From threshold to threshold a warrior can go without fear just to discover the unknown or a myth in as much as at the end they will “smile triumphantly” (26).

In addition, it all comes to one belief that the true side of every story survives. On a personal note, I can attest to several occasions where I thought to myself that the best way out was to sellout so to make things easy in a difficult situation. Well I think maybe it was the warrior spirit in me that kept me loyal just like Coraline in the story. She exercised honesty and maintained trustworthiness at the end of her odyssey. In spite of all the strange and deceiving acts and how things went in the story, even when the goddess proposed to put her in bondage yet, she turned the worst moment into a victorious outcome. Coraline did not get persuaded with the glamour and wealth she was offered to stay instead she rejected the bargain of her delusional mother by saying you are “sick and evil and weird” (78). In most cases, most people would have thought otherwise.

In conclusion, we can evaluate a true warrior archetype as indeed one who accomplishes the hero’s quest. I can connect myself in every aspect of my life as such. Thus, when a warrior discovers his or herself in a moment of departure they will definitely enter all the thresholds in their path. They will end up becoming masters of both worlds by refusing to be initiated because they always believe in fulfilling their promises (137).

Blog Entry: 3.3 Capoeira (Spiritual Dance) or Werewolves (The Superhuman)

I believe the human body is a physical and living spirit. Martial arts is one of the religions that teach us on how to defend the pride of the living spirit and how to use the mind in becoming supernatural. This blog entry will be based on a research on the history and essence of the Brazilian martial art called Capoeira. As a martial artist, I have interest in the exploration of diverse and religion based type of martial arts. One of the most significance of the type of martial art called Capoeira, is that it contains both educational and spiritual factors. I hope and promise to learnso much from this research that I can also use to help others who are uninformed about this great world of self-power.

My second project if project one seem too ambiguous, will be a research on Werewolves: the facts, fiction and history behind the scenes. The legend of the werewolf is one of the most ancient and wide spread. The many attributed superhuman strength and senses of Werewolves are far beyond those of both men and wolves. I hope to learn most of the things I always wanted to know about this ancient European culture.



Blog Entry 3.2 Macbeth

It is clear that, most of the stories about Macbeth’s reign portray him as bloody and corrupt soldier. Nonetheless, it is somehow unrealistic to confirm on whether or not he was as history portrays him to be. In spite of all being said about Macbeth, from concert plays to books and even videos, I was thrilled by this video portrayal of Macbeth, especially the type of dramatization the director exhibited. It is made up of series of both movie and stage performance techniques. The audio comes not from the actor on the scene but from an interpreter, there are also some techniques used by ventriloquist and finally, they used different sound effects like the ones used in movies. Although, the stories about Macbeth transcend a message of bloodbath, you can see from this video that the scenes are nonviolent and funny. Therefore, this video can appeal to people from all sorts of ages, especially kids.

In addition, most of the symbols used on the video and their translations have to do with vengeance. The gestures mentioned about Macbeth, mostly have to do with deception and greed. For example, the narrator expressed Macbeth’s desire to be the king as “obsessed” and described the play as “the corrupting influence of ambition.” Thus, I can use this description to presume Macbeth’s archetype as egoistic. In conclusion, this video is an illustration of how people with obsession behave. They always want more for themselves and will do whatever it takes to achieve it instead of being appreciative of what they already have. Well, they most times end up losing everything or die in the process.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5nlx2XzP-4&feature=f

Blog Entry 1.2

List of supernatural stories or themes I found interesting:

Religious:

1.      Holy Bible

2.      The Holy Koran

Mythological:

1.      Greek Mythology

Folkloric:

2.      Ghost Stories

3.      West African Folk Stories

West African Folklore

As an indigene from West Africa, I decided to use this web link (http://www.sacred-texts.com/afr/fssn/ ) because most of the information in it sounds firsthand about my traditional heritage.  Since my teenage years, I heard my parents and elders in my community say some of these same Folk stories that were published on this site. For some reason I thought I could never have the opportunity to hear these stories again. The reason is that, our forefathers did not know how to write. Thus, they just memorized events, which is why some of the fundamentals of African tradition have evaporated from existence. I am so grateful to science for at least some of my ancestral culture can be preserved.

Another importance why I chose this theme has a lot to do with my past, present and future. Due to the many wars that took place and global migration, we can somehow attest to the fact that, most ancient traditional practices are lost, forgotten or abandoned. However, the twenty first century nations tend to cope with science and technology rather than things from human prophecy. Although, I find it exciting to reflect back on some of the folk stories from my culture, I do not think these stories now have the same effect as they did to me as a boy. For example, the folk story called “Why Dead People are Buried” and “Why the Worms Lives Underground” sounded very scary to me as a boy but not anymore.

http://www.google.com/search?q=mythological+stories&rls=com.microsoft:en-us&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&startIndex=&startPage=1#hl=en&rls=com.microsoft:en-us&q=greek+mythology&sa=X&ei=W6XATMG7E4H-8AaA6ZDqCQ&ved=0CAUQpgQoAQ&fp=21d89d71a8e9aff0

http://longislandgothic.com/

http://www.sacred-texts.com/afr/fssn/

Blog Entry 3.1 [Macbeth]

The depiction on the above photo of Macbeth signifies an era of turmoil. It is obvious that, whenever the blade of a sword is stocked into the ground and leave to stand by itself, indicates a sign of battlefield. Despite the fact that most of the accounts of Macbeth are portrayed through dramatization, we can still learn from the illustrations that most of the literature are seemingly true to the periods. Most of the caricatures of Macbeth are in the form of a murder scene or witchcrafts displayal. In addition, I noticed that a large amount of the symbols used on Macbeth’s synopsis have to do with aggression. Some of these symbols are: bravery, challenge, prophecy, persuade and tyrant. From all being said, I believe it is fair to say a perfect description of Macbeth’s archetype would be a coward. In retrospect, most of what he did in his height of realm analyse him to be a very wicked soldier. Thus, he wanted to be the mighty man above all else even at the cost of others people's lives. In a short note, I can say a more justify evaluation also will be, insecurity.

The trajectory of the Macbeth’s eulogy seems very ambiguous. In contrast, he was somehow described to be a great warrior and on the other hand he was seen as a very disloyal soldier and deceptive man. Upon all the many journals about Macbeth, I can connect the photo above with the deserted and a sword, as a symbol of  unfinished war. Furthermore, it is an indication of a warmonger archetype which implies to Macbeth. In spite of all he might, he was still a coward and was very insecure about even those close to him. In conclusion, when anyone tries to achieve success in a form of “fair is foul” they always end up benefitting their so call achievement just for a short span.

 

Blog Entry 2.2: Warrior Archetype

It is reasonable to say that most everyone has a little amount of warrior spirit inside of them. As living organisms, it is impossible to survive without being a challenger. The warrior spirit is a kind of intuition we use to assess a situation. In other words, one must stand for what they believe and should never be afraid of death.  The foundation of a warrior archetype consists of many positive inbuilt attitudes: duty, honor, discipline, loyalty and boundary. Sometimes people go the roundabout way to achieve success but that is not a warrior archetype spirit. A warrior should be honest, humble and brave. These are the characters of a warrior that describes the type of person I am. From a world perspective, I realized that two types of warrior personality exist. One is called a dead hero and the other a living hero. For example, great men like Bob Marley, Martin Luther King Jr, Gandhi and many who successfully achieving their quest. In contrast, living heroes can be great men like Nelson Mandela, who acquired his quest yet still lives.

 If I may refleon all being said about these many great warriors, I believe that I have somehow been through these types of  thresholds which can be described also as a departure, initiation and return. At the age of twenty four, I decided to compose and release a political critique song against the corrupt government of Sierra Leone at the time. All this happened at the end of the long eleven year civil war on Blood Diamonds in Sierra Leone 2003. The magnitude of risk and implications were at a one hundred percent scale, but the warrior spirit gave me the spirit of confidence. I decided to pursue my goal without fear just as the story of David and Goliath plays in the Bible. In a short note, I won the battle against the ruthless government (SLPP) with a song called Corruption Eh Do So. The message in the song was powerful enough to propagate a revolution which did take place.

Finally, even though I still do not know where I got the guts to challenge a mighty government, but with so many other instances in my personal life I can conclude that I am a true warrior archetype. Furthermore, the ousted Government tried to assassinate me but they never succeeded. I am a living musical hero for my country and I still continue to fight against the odds of society. In conclusion, the archetype of our inner being is not always the same as what we portray. It is worth knowing who exactly the true person inside of you is which can be advantageous to your personality or the profession you seek

Blog Post 2.1 - Goblin Market

"Goblin Market"

 To begin with, Christina Rossetti is one of the most profound English poets. She was born in 1830’s and from her family accounts I found out that she was more close to her mother and was self aware about her beauty which made her a narcissist. Most of the ancient poets base their stories between love and hate. It is correct to say that most poems reflect the personal experiences of the author which is practical about the Goblin Market. I think that the author is obsessed with female sexuality and feminist heroism. In other words, women can have it all by themselves without the help of any man. Furthermore, her love expression in the poem, "Goblin Market" is an illustration and comparison between men and women. In a way, all men seem to be evil or losers and all women are beautiful and heroic. In retrospect, we can attain from her real life account that she has a grudge with the belief that men are the perfect solace for every woman’s craving. Despite of this, Christina inherited her artistic success from her father and her brother Dante, who greatly inspired her with his art of drawing yet she still expresses ugly feelings about men in most of her poems. Perhaps, the grief was developed from not being able to achieve a successful relationship with any of the men that she liked or she was just promoting homosexuality. In addition, some critics disputed the fact that the goal of "Goblin Market" is to motivate children's story which the author once anticipated. Perhaps, there is some speculation on how she outrageously uses seductive, religious and revengeful expressions as the framework for most of her writings.

             For the most part, the bulwark on which Goblin Market stands appears to boost the feminine spirit. The story discuss about two beautiful sisters, Laura and Lizzi as the target of men with bad intent. These men are called the Goblins. They signify deception and deceit. The story includes another girl Jeanie who was killed by the goblin because her lust for the forbidden fruit which was relentless. Despite knowing the consequences of eating the fruit of Eden, Laura betrayed herself and her sister by fulfilling her desire for the dainty fruit by plucking off a piece of her golden braid in exchange for the fruit of temptation. Some of the effects as we know from eating the forbidden fruit are inescapable everlasting sore. Unfortunately for Lizzi, she had to do the impossible just so to reverse the spell from her dying obstreperous sister. In a short note, this proves how hard it is for anyone to withstand persistent seduction. In spite of all we know about the goblin market, Lizzi confronted the goblins to buy some of the possessed fruit. When she faced the goblins merchants, she requested to purchase a large sum of the fruit in the form of cash. The motive stunned the merchants and they demanded a reason for such desire. Lizzi told them that she wanted to take the fruits home with her. The goblins were quick to realize the deceit and they refused to give her the fruit to take home but forced her to eat it right there. During the fight, Lizzi managed to at least get some of the fruit smashed all over her body. After she escaped from the goblin, she sped home to quench the thirst of her dying sister with the little remnant left of her body saying, Laura come eat and suck my body and replenish your true self. Laura did as she was told by Lizzi and after that, she regained her perfect life back. It is clear that most of the symbols used by the author had something to do with an unwanted relationship. The sequence in which the symbols are used and how the details in the episodes are structured prompt the notion of how abusive an opposite sex can be. Most of these symbols are described in the form of orchards, dainty, luscious and fruits. On the other hand, most of the symbols to fruit are synonyms such as to the word fruit were such merchant, coax, anguish, grimace and sore. Some of the sentences from the poem which supports my views are: “How fair the vine must grow whose grapes are so luscious” (page 1), “Must she then buys no more such dainty fruit?” (page 6)  “ and though the goblins cuffed and caught her, coaxed and fought her, bullied and besought her” (page 11).

           Finally, one of the most outstanding archetypes mostly used in the poem is to come and buy the orchard fruit. This is a portrayal of how good things do not come easy and that not all that glitters is gold. For the most part, the thing that drives me to believe that coaxing was the main archetype in this poem was the repetitiveness of such character in the poem. These expressions are archetypical metaphors which in other words mean something in disguise. Although it is difficult to abstain from our human desire to get the best yet, we should never underestimate our judgment when things look to good to be true. Life can be unpredictable sometimes, therefore, the dainty fruit which looks delicious can be deadly and consequential.

           In conclusion, I think the author’s use of such archetypes and symbols was to fixate the perception of her readers that women can be more powerful than men. The fact that this poem was written in the eighteen century is symbolic of the living fact  that fruit symbolizes sexual intent. For example, the bible illustrates what happened in the Garden of Eden in the form a fruit. This also shows how easy it is for the readers to connect to very common symbols instead of complex symbols. In retrospect, whether or not the author was trying to prove how optimistic a woman should be even in a life threatening situation, the way and manner of analyzing it in this poem seem controversial and ubiquitous. The goblin merchant can be any man out there today. Most deceitful men nowadays do not sell fruits but persuade their preys from a different approach. In a short note, all women still need men to satisfy their sexual cravings and to adhere the regeneration of mankind.

Works Cited

The Dance of Death

Dance of Death

          I was thrilled to find out that France gained recognition around the fourteen century for a medieval superstition called the Dance of Death. The knowledge behind this underlying theory is: “a warning for powerful men, a comfort to the poor.”  When it is time for harvest we shall all rip what we sew.  Most people can attest to this reasonable dialogue as a practical example of life’s reality.  Furthermore, we should all be careful of how we treat each other because sooner or later we shall join this mystical dance carnival. In spite of the fact that there have been many translations of this masterpiece, the significance of the myth still remains. This myth implies whether we are rich or poor we will all die. However, this historic metaphor was able to survive because of a prominent research. Guyot Merchant published the first version of this book in the year 1427. Nonetheless, in spite of all the different versions through the years, the thesis remains unchangeable: “it makes men remember that they all will die, without exception.”

            In addition, most of the medieval transcribes illustrate how the angels of death will receive you when you die. Some of the archives we have today, were done in the form of paintings, carvings, manuscripts and books. They were mostly done by prominent artists or in some case ordinary people. The original creator for this myth is unknown but the essence behind the theory is very symbolic. In other words, this superstition is believed to be a spiritual mentor and security for the righteous. The angel of death is sure to take revenge whenever oppressors prey on the weak. In this regard, the myth was adored and celebrated as a totem. Thus, most of the people at the time believed that the delusion was symbolic and as a result, most of the depictions were placed in both sacred and public locations. 

           Finally, I have come to realize that the meaning of this fabrication has a direct effect on today’s world. The most important things we learn from every religion impacts us the same way as illustrated in the Death of Dance. No one is an exception. Kings and Queens will face judgment when they die as well as the people they rule. For example, I come from a village in Sierra Leone and most of the things we did was guided by an ancestral myth. For instance, when a farmer climbs a tree and falls, it is believed that his wife is cheating on him. Another example of a myth was, if you steal from someone you will pay back in seven fold when you meet the angel of death.  I can connect these and many other theories from around the world back to the Dance of Death. Therefore, we have nowhere to hide, so remember how you live your life.      

            In conclusion, those who live a positive life will surely enjoy dancing with the angel of death. In contrast, those who did evil acts will be punished and burnt to ashes when they face the dance of death.   It is fair to say this theory has provided mankind with a balance on how to live in harmony with others, whether or not you believe in any religion or the laws of the constitution. Respect your fellow mankind or else the angel of death will be merciless on you.

Works Cited

http://www.godecookery.com/macabre/holdod/holdod.htm

                                  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Danse_Macabre

                                    http://www.poetry-archive.com/b/the_dance_of_death.html

                                    http://www.lamortdanslart.com/danse/dance.htm

Symbolism

THE DANCE OF DEATH
by: Charles Baudelaire
Carrying bouquet, and handkerchief and gloves,
Proud of her height as when she lived, she moves
With all the careless and high-stepping grace,
And the extravagant courtesan's thin face.
 
Was slimmer waist e'er in a ball-room wooed?
Her floating robe, in royal amplitude,
Falls in deep folds around a dry foot, shod
With a bright flower-like shoe that gems the sod.
 
The swarms that hum about her collar-bones
As the lascivious streams caress the stones,
Conceal from every scornful jest that flies,
Her gloomy beauty; and her fathomless eyes
 
Are made of shade and void; with flowery sprays
Her skull is wreathed artistically, and sways,
Feeble and weak, on her frail vertebrae.
O charm of nothing decked in folly! they
 
Who laugh and name you a Caricature,
They see not, they whom flesh and blood allure,
The nameless grace of every bleached, bare bone,
That is most dear to me, tall skeleton!
 
http://www.poetry-archive.com/b/the_dance_of_death.html




Symbols                      Denotations

Bouquet:                    Collection of flowers.
Handkerchief:           Small cloth for wiping the nose.
Gloves:                       Covering for the hand with sheaths for the fingers.
Proud:                        Feeling or causing pride.
Careless:                     Not paying enough attention.
Grace:                        Beauty of form.
Extravagant:              Someone wasteful.
Courtesan:                 Prostitute
Waist:                         body part between the ribs and the thigh.
Ball-room:                  Large room for social dances.
Robe:                          Long loose outer garment.
Royal:                         Of a monarch, kingdom.
Deep:                          Extending far down.
Bright:                        Shining full.
Flower:                       A plant that grows for it blossoms.
Shoe:                          Outer covering for the foot.
Gem:                          Precious stone.
Swarms:                     Colony of bees.
Collar-bone:               The clavicle, the top bony part of the shoulder.
Streams:                     Small River.
Stones:                        Solid nonmetallic mineral matter.
Scornful:                    To refuse.
Flies:                           Move through the air using wings.
Beauty:                       Pleasing quality as in looks.
Fathomless:                Very deep.
Shade:                         Partial light cut by darkness.
Void:                           Empty.
Skull:                          Bony frame work of the head.
Wreathed:                  A circular band of flower.
Artistically:                Of art or artist.
Sway:                          Swing from side to side.
Feeble:                        Very weak or sick.
Frail:                           Having delicate health.
Charm:                       A power of pleasing or attracting.
Folly:                          Lack of understanding or sense.
Laugh:                        To express pleasure.
Caricature:                A picture description of a person.
Flesh:                          Humankind, muscular and fatty tissue.
Blood:                         The fluid that circulate in the principal vascular system of human.
Nameless:                   Having no name.
Bleached:                   To make lighter or whiter in color.
Bone:                          One of the structures composing the skeleton of a vertebrate.
Tall:                            Great height.
Skeleton:                            The bones of a human or an animal consider as a whole.

Symbols                      Connotation

Bouquet:                    Ready to attract.                    
Handkerchief:           Very decent person    
Gloves:                       High-class woman in public.
Proud:                        Self Confidence.
Careless:                     Calm and relaxed.
High-stepping grace: Peaceful.
Extravagant:              Well constructed.
Courtesan                  Gold digger.
Slimmer waist:           Very sexy.                               .
Ball-room:                  Target place to attract rich men.
Floating Robe:           Ancient style of dress for women of importance.                              .
Royal amplitude:       Available only to the high ranks.                    .
Deep fold:                  Hidden agenda.                                  .
Dry Foot:                   Walking around.                                 .
Bright flower-like:     Expensive shoes.                     .
Gem:                           Lights up the floor.                             .
Swarms:                     All the men trying to reach her.
Collar-bone:               Trying to look at her breast                  
Lascivious streams:   A setup road or trap.               .
Stones:                        Ready to embrace.
Scornful jest:             Gossips, jealousy or haters.                 .
Flies:                           Less important people.
Gloomy Beauty:        Inside beauty.
Fathomless eyes:        Cannot be evaluated.
Shade and void:         Very cheap.                             .
Skull is wreathed:      Description of a princess.                                .
Artistically:                A beautiful imagination.
Sway:                          Going nowhere.
Feeble:                        Helpless.
Frail vertebrae:         Confused person.                                .
Charm:                       Hoping for something good to happen.
Decked in folly:         No one seems to care.             .
Laugh:                        Hypocrites.
Caricature:                Funny looking.
Flesh:                          Men.
Blood:                         Love
Nameless:                   to search for.              
Bleached:                   Pretending.
Bare bone:                 Ordinary people.                                 .
Tall Skeleton:            Strong man or a handsome guy.