Protofeminism in The Scarlet Letter Essay

In the eyes of some, The Scarlet Letter may seem like a protofeminist novel. In the eyes of some, had Hester been a man, her punishment would not have been nearly as embarrassing and deceitful. In the eyes of some, Hester did nothing but the right thing based on her trying to protect other women from gender-based prosecution, though it meant completely disregarding Puritan laws in her society. Then again, in the eyes of some, Hester deserved all of the harassment and harsh, negative attention that she received from the townspeople. It is all a matter of opinion based on facts. Sexist punishments? You decide. Comparing to today’s society and laws, The Scarlet Letter seems about as protofeminist as America not electing Hillary Clinton for president in 2008. To the majority of society, men are superior in almost every aspect. Therefore, men are said to not be punished nearly as harshly as women are. In The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne is punished for adultery. Her punishment consisted of having to be labeled with a glowing, bright red symbol of her supposed crime. As a result, townspeople treated her like nothing more or less than dirt on the ground because of what she had done. However, a man may not have suffered as harsh of a punishment in any society. In the eyes of some, The Scarlet Letter may seem like a protofeminist novel. Women always seem to be underestimated and stereotyped. Although adultery is a serious crime in times like based in The Scarlet Letter, a man doubtfully would have had as harsh of a punishment as Hester Prynne. If a man’s wife had vanished without his knowing and not been seen for a very long period of time, surely he would move on without assuring what had happened to his spouse. Nobody wants to be alone for so long with not a clue of where their significant other may be. Like any normal person, moving on would be a last resort. What happens when your spouse comes back and you have another spouse? You are punished for adultery in that time. However, many feel as though a man, in fact, would not be as severely punished with adultery. In the eyes of some, had Hester been a man,  her punishment would not have been nearly as embarrassing and deceitful. During Hester’s punishment, she is treated very unfairly. She moves out and onto the outskirts of society where she can no longer be harassed or publicly humiliated. While feeling that her punishment is unfair, Hester undertakes to protect other women of the Puritan society from gender-based persecution. Her punishment is inexplicably sexist and unnecessary on a majority-based opinion. Her actions seem to point to a larger political statement, not only in the sense of unfair Puritan laws, but the fact that her punishment is gender-based and a man would not have been symbolized the way that Hester Prynne was. In the eyes of some, Hester did nothing but the right thing based on her trying to protect other women from gender-based prosecution, though it meant completely disregarding Puritan laws in her society. If a man would have the same punishment as Hester Prynne suffered through in The Scarlett Letter, then there was no evidence of this in the novel. To most, the storyline of this novel gives off protofeminist evidence. Maybe Hester did deserve all of the harassment and harsh, negative attention that she received from the townspeople due to her crime, but it is all a matter of opinion based on facts. Sexist punishments? You decide.

An Occurence at owl Creek Bridge by Ambrose Bierce Essay

â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge†, is one of the best American short stories and is considered Ambrose Bierce’s greatest work. First published in Bierce’s short story collection â€Å"Tales of Soldiers and Civilians† in 1891, this story is about Peyton Farquhar, a southern farmer who is about to be hanged by the Union Army for trying to set the railroad bridge at Owl Creek on fire. While Farquhar is standing on the bridge with a rope around his neck, Bierce leads the reader to think that the rope snaps and he falls into the river, and then makes an amazing escape and finally returns to his farm, to be reunited with his wife. However the ending of the story is totally different, in fact, Farquhar is hanged and these imaginings take place seconds before his death. Ambrose Bierce’s trick ending succeeds because of the way he manipulated the text by changing the narrative point of view from one type to another. â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek B ridge† is divided into three sections, with each section having a different narrative form. In the first section, the author uses dramatic narration: the story is told by no one. With the disappearance of the narrator, the reader is now the direct and immediate witness to the unfolding drama. The reader views the work from the outside. In the beginning of this story the readers are informed of all the preparations for a man about to be hanged: the set up for the hanging, the characters involved and the surroundings. The narrator gives an incredible and beautiful snapshot of the scene describing the water, the guards, and his restraints. â€Å"†¦Vertical in front of the left shoulder, the hammer rested on the forearm thrown strait across the chest- a formal and unnatural position† (Bierce pg. 90, line 10). This type of narration is the least personal and the reader receives the least information on the character’s thoughts and feelings. Although the author describes details, the reader has to fill the blanks as to what actions and events lead up to the situation. The reason for this type of narration in the first section of the story is to get the readers curiosity going. One wonders what Peyton Farquhar could have done to be hanged; was he alone in what he did, why is he involved in a military issue when he is a civilian? In paragraph six and seven and through the second section, the author changes his point of view to one which is third person omniscient: all knowing. The  omniscient narrator is not a character in the story and is not involved with what happens. He imposes his presence between the reader and the story and controls all the events. From an outside point of view, the narrator provides enough information to summarize, interpret and wonder. As the story evolves, the reader begins to read thoughts of the characters: Farquhar, his wife and the soldiers. The reader becomes involved in Farquhar’s life as the narrator summarizes his situation. The reader is told of him being a planter and owning slaves, that he is a secessionist and devoted to the Southern cause. Nevertheless, the narrator leads the reader to believe Farquhar and his wife are kind people, she fetched the water for the soldier to drink with her â€Å"own white hands† (Bierce pg.92, line 15) instead of ordering one on her colored slaves to do it. Farquhar’s principles and devotion towards the south is explained in this section and the reader gets to know who he really is. This makes the reader feel sympathetic towards him and his wife. The purpose of the omniscient narrator in the 2nd section is to give information of the characters and to get a glimpse into Farquhars life. The reader finds out how devoted his wife is to her husband. The reader can now relate to Farqhuar and understand how and why he got caught trying to destroy the bridge. Section three is intended to create suspense. Bierce wants the reader to believe that what is being described actually happens. In order for the reader to believe that what is being described is actually happening, the story must be narrated from the characters point of view (limited omniscient point of view). With a limited omniscient point of view, the narrator limits his or her ability to penetrate the mind of a single character. The reader may be shown the character’s voice, feelings and thoughts through dialogue, monologue or stream of consciousness. As a result, the reader becomes more and more directly involved in interpreting the story. By using this point of view all of what Farquhar is experiencing seems so real. The advantages of the limited omniscient point of view are the tightness of focus and control that it provides. If the third section was told in an omniscient point of view, the author would have not been able to fool the reader, for he would have â€Å"seen† what was really happening. Seeing the whole action and knowing the soldiers thoughts would have given away the ending. â€Å"An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge† was written in three different sections, with each having a different narrative form. The first, using dramatic point of view, describes where the action takes place. The second, omniscient point of view lets the reader comprehend the victim’s thoughts and actions. And finally, the third section, limited omniscient point of view creates suspense by being only in one mind. With the ability to switch from one form to another, Bierce was able to create a tale of intrigue, captivation and a twist-ending.

Spirit Bound Chapter Nine

ROBERT DORU WAS EASY TO SPOT. It wasn't because he looked like Victor. It wasn't even because of any dramatic running-toward-each-other reunion type thing between him and his brother. Rather, it was Lissa's mind that tipped me off. I saw Robert through her eyes, the golden aura of a spirit user lighting up his corner of the restaurant like a star. It caught her by surprise, and she stumbled briefly. Spirit users were too rare a sight for her to be fully used to them. Seeing auras was something she could tune in or out, and just before â€Å"turning his off,† she noted that even though his had the brilliant gold she saw in Adrian, there was also a feel of instability to it. Sparks of other colors flashed there too, but they trembled and flickered. She wondered if it was a mark of spirit's insanity setting in. His eyes lit up as Victor approached the table, but the two didn't hug or touch. Victor simply sat down beside his brother. The rest of us stood there awkwardly for a moment. The whole situation was too weird. But it was the reason we'd come, and after several more seconds, my friends and I joined the brothers at the table. â€Å"Victor†¦Ã¢â‚¬  breathed Robert, eyes wide. Robert might have had some of the Dashkov facial features, but his eyes were brown, not green. His hands toyed with a napkin. â€Å"I can't believe it†¦. I've wanted to see you for so long†¦.† Victor's voice was gentle, as it had been on the phone, as if he were talking to a child. â€Å"I know, Robert. I missed you too.† â€Å"Are you staying? Can you come back and stay with me?† Part of me wanted to snap that that was a ridiculous idea, but the desperation in Robert's voice sparked a tiny bit of pity in me. I remained silent, simply watching the drama before me unfold. â€Å"I'd hide you. It'd be great. Just the two of us.† Victor hesitated. He wasn't stupid. Despite my vague claims on the plane, he knew the odds of me letting him go were nonexistent. â€Å"I don't know,† he said quietly. â€Å"I don't know.† The waiter's arrival jolted us out of our haze, and we all ordered drinks. Adrian ordered a gin and tonic and wasn't even carded. I wasn't sure if it was because he looked twenty-one or was convincing enough with spirit. Regardless, I wasn't thrilled about it. Alcohol muted spirit. We were in a precarious situation, and I would have liked him at full strength. Of course, considering he'd been drinking earlier, it probably didn't matter now. After the waiter left, Robert seemed to notice the rest of us. His eyes passed over Eddie quickly, sharpened at Lissa and Adrian, and lingered on me for a long time. I stiffened, not liking the scrutiny. He finally turned back to his brother. â€Å"Who have you brought, Victor?† Robert still had that oblivious, scattered air to him but it was lit with suspicion now. Fear and paranoia. â€Å"Who are these children? Two spirit users and†¦Ã¢â‚¬  His gaze fell on me again. He was reading my aura. â€Å"One of the shadow-kissed?† For a moment, I was astonished at his use of the term. Then I remembered what Mark, Oksana's husband, had told me. Robert had once been bonded to a dhampir–and that dhampir had died, drastically speeding up the deterioration of Robert's mind. â€Å"They're friends,† said Victor smoothly. â€Å"Friends who'd like to talk to you and ask you some questions.† Robert frowned. â€Å"You're lying. I can tell. And they don't consider you a friend. They're tense. They keep their distance from you.† Victor didn't deny the friend claim. â€Å"Nonetheless, they need your help, and I promised it to them. It was the price for me being allowed to visit you.† â€Å"You shouldn't have made promises for me.† Robert's napkin was now in shreds. I kind of wanted to give him mine. â€Å"But didn't you want to see me?† asked Victor winningly. His tone was warm, his smile almost genuine. Robert looked troubled. Confused. I was again reminded of a child and was starting to have my doubts that this guy had ever transformed a Strigoi. He was spared an answer yet again when our drinks arrived. None of us had even picked up our menus, much to the waiter's obvious annoyance. He left, and I opened mine without really seeing it. Victor then introduced us to Robert, as formally as he might at any diplomatic function. Prison hadn't dulled his sense of royal etiquette. Victor gave first names only. Robert turned back to me, that frown still on his face, and glanced between Lissa and me. Adrian had said that whenever we were together, our auras showed that we were linked. â€Å"A bond†¦ I've almost forgotten what it was like†¦ but Alden. I've never forgotten Alden†¦Ã¢â‚¬  His eyes grew dreamy and almost vacant. He was reliving a memory. â€Å"I'm sorry,† I said, surprised to hear the sympathy in my words. This was hardly the harsh interrogation I'd envisioned. â€Å"I can only imagine what it must have been like†¦ losing him†¦.† The dreamy eyes grew sharp and hard. â€Å"No. You cannot. It's like nothing you can imagine. Nothing. Right now†¦ right now†¦ you have the world. A universe of senses beyond those of others, an understanding of another person that no one can have. To lose that†¦ to have that ripped away†¦ it would make you wish for death.† Wow. Robert was pretty good at killing conversation, and we all kind of sat there hoping the waiter would return this time. When he did, we all made halfhearted attempts at ordering food–except Robert–most of us deciding on the spot. The restaurant served Asian cuisine, and I ordered the first thing I saw on the menu: an egg roll sampler. With food ordered, Victor continued taking the firm hand with Robert that I seemed incapable of managing. â€Å"Will you help them? Will you answer their questions?† I had a feeling that Victor was pushing Robert on this not so much as a way to pay back us rescuing him, but rather because Victor's scheming nature was dying to know everyone's secrets and motivations. Robert sighed. Whenever he looked at Victor, there was such a strong expression of devotion and even idol worship. Robert probably couldn't refuse his brother anything. He was the perfect type to play into Victor's plans, and I realized I should possibly be grateful that Robert had grown unstable. If he'd been in full control of his powers, Victor would never have bothered with Lissa last time. He would have already had his own private spirit wielder to use however he wanted. â€Å"What do you want to know?† asked Robert blearily. He addressed me, apparently recognizing my leadership. I glanced at my friends for moral support and received none. Neither Lissa nor Adrian approved of this mission in the first place, and Eddie still didn't know its purpose. I swallowed, steeling myself, and directed my full attention to Robert. â€Å"We heard you freed a Strigoi once. That you were able to convert him–or her–back to their original state.† Surprise flashed on Victor's usually composed face. He certainly hadn't expected this. â€Å"Where did you hear this?† demanded Robert. â€Å"From a couple I met in Russia. Their names are Mark and Oksana.† â€Å"Mark and Oksana†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Again, Robert's gaze slipped away for a moment. I had a feeling this happened a lot, that he didn't spend much time in reality. â€Å"I didn't know they were still together.† â€Å"They are. They're doing really great.† I needed him back in the present. â€Å"Is it true? Did you do what they said? Is it possible?† Robert's responses were always preceded by a pause. â€Å"Her.† â€Å"Huh?† â€Å"It was a woman. I freed her.† I gasped in spite of myself, hardly daring to process his words. â€Å"You're lying.† It was Adrian who spoke, his tone harsh. Robert glanced at him with an expression amused and scornful. â€Å"And who are you to say that? How can you tell? You've bruised and abused your powers so much, it's a wonder you can even touch the magic anymore. And all these things you do to yourself†¦ it doesn't truly help, does it? Spirit's punishment still affects you†¦ soon you won't be able to tell reality from dream†¦.† The words stunned Adrian for a moment, but he kept going. â€Å"I don't need any physical signs to see that you're lying. I know you are because what you're describing is impossible. There's no way to save a Strigoi. When they're gone, they're gone. They're dead. Undead. Forever .† â€Å"That which is dead doesn't always stay dead†¦.† Robert's words weren't directed at Adrian. They were spoken to me. I shivered. â€Å"How? How did you do it?† â€Å"With a stake. She was killed with a stake, and in doing so, was brought back to life.† â€Å"Okay,† I said. â€Å"That is a lie. I've killed plenty of Strigoi with stakes, and believe me, they stay dead.† â€Å"Not just any stake.† Robert's fingers danced along the edge of his glass. â€Å"A special stake.† â€Å"A stake charmed with spirit,† said Lissa suddenly. He lifted his eyes to her and smiled. It was a creepy smile. â€Å"Yes. You are a clever, clever girl. A clever, gentle girl. Gentle and kind. I can see it in your aura.† I stared off at the table, my mind in overdrive. A stake charmed with spirit. Silver stakes were charmed with the four main Moroi elements: earth, air, water, and fire. It was that infusion of life that destroyed the undead force within a Strigoi. With our recent discovery of how to charm objects with spirit, infusing a stake had never even occurred to us. Spirit healed. Spirit had brought me back from the dead. In joining with the other elements within a stake, was it truly possible that the twisted darkness that gripped Strigoi could be obliterated, thus restoring that person to their rightful state? I was grateful for the food's arrival because my brain was still moving sluggishly. The egg rolls provided a welcome opportunity to think. â€Å"Is it really that easy?† I asked at last. Robert scoffed. â€Å"It's not easy at all.† â€Å"But you just said†¦ you just said we need a spirit-charmed stake. And then I kill a Strigoi with it.† Or well, not kill. The technicalities were irrelevant. His smile returned. â€Å"Not you. You can't do it.† â€Å"Then who†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I stopped, the rest of my words dying on my lips. â€Å"No. No.† â€Å"The shadow-kissed don't have the gift of life. Only the spirit-blessed,† he explained. â€Å"The question is: Who's capable of doing it? Gentle Girl or Drunken Sod?† His eyes flicked between Lissa and Adrian. â€Å"My wager would be on Gentle Girl.† Those words were what snapped me out of my stunned state. In fact, they were what shattered this whole thing, this far-fetched dream of saving Dimitri. â€Å"No,† I repeated. â€Å"Even if it was possible–and I'm not sure if I believe you–she can't do it. I won't let her.† And in a turn of events almost as astonishing as Robert's revelation, Lissa spun toward me, anger flooding our bond. â€Å"And since when can you tell me what I can or can't do?† â€Å"Since I don't recall you ever taking guardian training and learning to stake a Strigoi,† I returned evenly, trying to keep my voice calm. â€Å"You only punched Reed, and that was hard enough.† When Avery Lazar had tried to take over Lissa's mind, she'd sent her shadow-kissed brother to do some dirty work. With my help, Lissa had punched him and kept him away. It had been beautifully executed, but she'd hated it. â€Å"I did it, didn't I?† she exclaimed. â€Å"Liss, throwing a punch is nothing like staking a Strigoi. And that's not even counting the fact that you have to get near one in the first place. You think you could get in range before one bit you or snapped your neck? No.† â€Å"I'll learn.† The determination in her voice and mind was admirable, but it took guardians decades to learn what we did–and plenty still got killed. Adrian and Eddie looked uncomfortable in the midst of our bickering, but Victor and Robert seemed both intrigued and amused. I didn't like that. We weren't here for their entertainment. I tried to deflect the dangerous topic by turning back to Robert. â€Å"If a spirit user brought back a Strigoi, then that person would become shadow-kissed.† I didn't point out the obvious conclusion to Lissa. Part of what had driven Avery crazy (aside from normal spirit usage) had been bonding with more than one person. Doing so created a very unstable situation that rapidly led all people involved into darkness and insanity. Robert's eyes grew dreamy as he stared beyond me. â€Å"Bonds form when someone dies–when their soul has actually left and moved onto the world of the dead. Bringing it back is what makes them shadow-kissed. Death's mark is upon them.† His gaze suddenly snapped onto me. â€Å"Just as it is on you.† I refused to avoid his eyes, despite the chill his words sent through me. â€Å"Strigoi are dead. Saving one would mean its soul was brought back from the world of the dead too.† â€Å"No,† he argued. â€Å"Their souls do not move on. Their souls linger†¦ neither in this world nor the next. It's wrong and unnatural. It's what makes them what they are. Killing or saving a Strigoi sends the soul back to a normal state. There is no bond.† â€Å"Then there's no danger,† Lissa said to me. â€Å"Aside from a Strigoi killing you,† I pointed out. â€Å"Rose–â€Å" â€Å"We'll finish this conversation later.† I gave her a hard look. We held each other's gazes a moment, and then she turned to Robert. There was still an obstinacy in the bond I didn't like. â€Å"How do you charm the stake?† she asked him. â€Å"I'm still learning.† I again started to chastise her and then thought better of it. Maybe Robert was wrong. Maybe all it actually took to convert a Strigoi was a spirit-infused stake. He only thought a spirit user had to do it because he had done it. Allegedly. Besides, I'd much rather Lissa preoccupy herself with charming than fighting. If the charm part sounded too hard, she might have to give up altogether. Robert glanced at me and then Eddie. â€Å"One of you must have a stake on you. I'll show you.† â€Å"You can't take a stake out in public,† exclaimed Adrian, in what was a remarkably wise observation. â€Å"It might be weird for humans, but it's still obvious that it's a weapon.† â€Å"He's right,† Eddie said. â€Å"We could go back to the room after dinner,† said Victor. He had that perfectly pleasant and bland look on his face. I studied him, hoping my expression showed my distrust. Even with her zeal, I could sense the hesitation in Lissa too. She wasn't keen on following any suggestion of Victor's. We'd seen in the past how desperately far Victor would go in attempting to fulfill his plans. He'd convinced his own daughter to turn Strigoi and help him escape jail. For all we knew, he was planning the same for– â€Å"That's it,† I gasped, feeling my eyes go wide as I stared at him. â€Å"That's what?† Victor asked. â€Å"That's why you had Natalie turn. You thought†¦ you knew about this. What Robert had done. You were going to use her Strigoi strength and then have him turn her back.† Victor's already pale face went paler, and he seemed to age before our eyes. His smug look disappeared, and he looked away. â€Å"Natalie is dead and long gone,† he said stiffly. â€Å"There's no point in discussing her.† Some of us made an attempt to eat after that, but my egg roll seemed tasteless now. Lissa and I were thinking the same thing. Among all of Victor's sins, I'd always considered him convincing his own daughter to turn Strigoi to be the most awful. It was what had really sealed the deal for me about him being a monster. Suddenly, I was forced to reevaluate things–forced to reevaluate him. If he'd known he could bring her back, it made what he had done terrible–but not as terrible. He was still evil in my mind, no question. But if he had believed he could bring Natalie back, then that meant he believed in Robert's power. There was still no way I was letting Lissa near a Strigoi, but this incredible tale had become slightly more credible. I couldn't let it go without further investigation. â€Å"We can go up to the room after this,† I said at last. â€Å"But not for long.† My words were to Victor and Robert. Robert seemed to have faded into his own world again, but Victor nodded. I gave Eddie a quick glance and got a curt nod of a different sort from him. He understood the risk in taking the brothers to a private place. Eddie was telling me he would be extravigilant–not that he wasn't already. By the time we finished dinner, Eddie and I were both rigid and tense. He walked near Robert, and I stayed by Victor. We kept Lissa and Adrian between the brothers. Yet, even keeping close, it was hard as we cut through the crowded casino. People stopped in our path, walked around us, through us†¦ it was chaos. Twice, our group got split by oblivious tourists. We weren't too far from the elevators, but I was getting uneasy about the possibility of Victor or Robert running off through the mob of people â€Å"We need to get out of this crowd,† I shouted over to Eddie. He gave me another of his quick nods and took an abrupt left that caught me by surprise. I steered Victor in that same direction, and Lissa and Adrian sidestepped to keep up with us. I was puzzled until I saw that we were approaching a hall with an EMERGENCY EXIT sign on it. Away from the busy casino, the noise level dimmed. â€Å"Figure there are probably stairs here,† Eddie explained. â€Å"Crafty guardian.† I flashed him a smile. Another turn showed us a janitorial closet on our right and ahead of us: a door with a symbol for stairs. The door appeared to lead both outside and to upper floors. â€Å"Brilliant,† I said. â€Å"You're, like, on the tenth floor,† pointed out Adrian. It was the first time he'd spoken in a while. â€Å"Nothing like a little exercise to–damn.† I came to an abrupt halt in front of the door. It had a small warning sign saying that an alarm would go off if the door was opened. â€Å"Figures.† â€Å"Sorry,† said Eddie, like he was personally responsible. â€Å"Not your fault,† I said, turning. â€Å"Back we go.† We'd have to take our chances in the crowd. Maybe the roundabout detour had tired Victor and Robert out enough to make escape unappealing. Neither of them was that young anymore, and Victor was still in bad shape. Lissa was too tense to think much about being led around, but Adrian gave me a look that clearly said he thought this traipsing was a waste of his time. Of course, he thought this whole Robert thing was a waste of time. I was honestly surprised he was coming with us at all back to the room. I would have expected him to stay in the casino with his cigarettes and another drink. Eddie, leading our group, took a few steps back toward the casino down the hallway. And then it hit me. â€Å"Stop!† I screamed. He responded instantly, coming to a halt in the narrow space. A bit of confusion followed. Victor stumbled into Eddie in surprise, and then Lissa stumbled into Victor. Instinct made Eddie reach for his stake, but mine was already out. I'd grabbed it as soon as the nausea had swept me. There were Strigoi between us and the casino.

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Leadership and Communication - Term Paper Example Each leader possesses a unique leadership style and/or philosophy and communicates in a particular way depending on numerous factors such as their individual personalities, their levels of experience, education, or training, which greatly determines how followers react to leadership (Hersey, Blanchard, & Johnson,2013). Three major leadership styles that have persisted over the years include the Authoritarian, Democratic as well as Laissez-Fair; the autocratic leader establishes clear guidelines specifying tasks and procedures for accomplishing the given tasks thereby providing guidance for his or her followers. Nonetheless, the autocratic leaders make their independent decisions without involving their followers and are viewed as controlling, bossy and dictatorial thus may undermine the motivation of the workforce in accomplishing their specific tasks. Unlike the autocratic style, the democratic style of leadership entails a consideration of group input in the decision-making process ; precisely, democratic leaders value the need to engage followers in decision-making by listening to their suggestions. Consequently, the democratic leader makes his/her followers feel more engaged, valued and respected, which eventually makes them even more creative and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization; nonetheless, this style may also undermine performance due to disagreements and long consultation sessions. Unlike the other two leadership styles, the Laissez-Fair is suitable for work environments that have responsible group members that can work productively on their own without any form of supervision.

Heart of Darkness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Heart of Darkness - Essay Example In Joseph Conrad’s novel Heart of Darkness, the concept of imperialism and the effects it has on all who are involved with it are fully explored. It is important to understand this in order to appreciate the closing dialogue of the story, when Marlowe discusses Kurtz’s death with Kurtz’s once Intended. Looking at this final dialogue with this tortured woman reveals a great deal of information about the story itself, serving to help characterize not only the speaker, Marlow, but the man spoken of as well. Although the woman is only an incidental character in the novel, her words further help to bring depth to both of these characters that might not have been understood previously as the two men are revealed through her relationship to them. Through various stylistic mechanisms, this dialogue also serves to explain the significance of Marlow’s journey into Africa and presents the reader with a great deal of helpful hints as to how to interpret the story just read. Even with just a basic understanding of the plot of the story just told, this small two-page interaction between Marlow and Kurtz’s Intended brings the story into sharp focus, piercingly defining the character of Marlow himself while also shedding light on the true nature of Kurtz through the use of various stylistic tools and the employment of dramatic irony when set against the backdrop of the previous pages.

Criminal investigation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Criminal investigation - Essay Example uthouse having hay or grain therein; any barrack, rick or stack of hay, grain, or bark; any public building, church or meeting-house, college, school or library. (Arson, lectlaw, n.d). Chapter 806.01 of the Florida Statutes, considers a person guilty of arson if that person wilfully and unlawfully or while in the commission of a felony by fire or explosion damages or causes to be damaged any structure, or structure in which people are usually present for example – jails, prisons, hospitals, department stores, offices, churches, educational institutions, during the time when these are occupied as also, the damaging by these means of any structure which this person knows is occupied. Such a person is deemed to be guilty of arson in the first degree. This constitutes a felony of the first degree, punishable as per the provisions of sections 775.082, 775.083 or 775.084. These Statutes further, state that a person who commits an act of arson which results in physical harm to any other person, irrespective of intent to cause such harm, is considered to be guilty of misdemeanour of the first degree. This is punishable under sections 775.082 and 775.083. (The 2005 Florida Statutes n.d). According to this definition intent is not an important criterion in deciding whether a person is guilty of arson or not. In the case under consideration the accused agreed that he had applied a flame to the canvas litters. He stated that he did this to determine whether the canvas litters were fire proof or not. Though he had no intention of causing harm to anyone or any property he wilfully started the fire. As per the Statutes he is guilty of arson. As a consequence of this fire one person died due to asphyxiation while others were injured. In view of the above, John Notthink is guilty of arson of the first degree and is punishable under sections 775.082, 775.083 and 775.084 for first degree arson, which is a felony of the first degree. To prove an arson charge it is sufficient if it

Balance of Power Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Balance of Power - Essay Example To maintain the framework of power of balance from time to time force can be used in the areas support of the law. That may mean that it is used in maintain of the civil power or it may mean that it is used to set up an environment in which the rule of law becomes promising .The use of force is not good except it is in support of some concept of order. To give justification for hostility we be grateful to pray to the strength of the international system," the sacred soil of the homeland, the significant fortune of the country, the rule of international law, the magnetism of making the world safe for democracy, civilization, socialism or something similar" (A. Wendt, Summer 1995, pp. 77-81). International law is the exacting shape of order we have adopted to enable us to run a global economy; however Force is what recognized that order. Force perhaps lawful or illegal; it possibly intelligent or stupid; it may be in the benefit of the international community or not; however questions in relation to whether it is legal or not seem - at this phase of world olden times at least - simply dull. During domestic interaction individual does not inquire if an establishment is officially permitted or not. Balance of power can be defined as a structure to keep up a position quo wherever no alter in the presented supremacy system is made-up to occur. The perception of balance of power does not rule out the make use of menace or confrontation. It is primarily a system of manage and preventing transform to occur through maintenance aggressors in check.'Power is the ability to exercise influence and the ability to prevent influence from being exercised over oneself.' (Singer, 1972:54) We be alive in a world which is even more defenseless. Primary, it is weak for the reason that it is unlock along with since cross-border deal, journey as well as communication has not at all been easier. Subsequent, it is helpless as, in the midst of the international partition of labor in an always additional aggressive global economy, we function on progressively more very well limits of fault. It requires a great deal fewer responsibility sober financial harm to today's world than was the case thirty years before. "11 September together made understandable how a good deal injure a small faction might do to our humanity, and at the identical point in time provided a influential illustration with the intention of control the thoughts of the disaffected on behalf of decades toward approach. Nowadays, still, the potential of assault on an highly developed civilization all the way through substance, organic otherwise electronic resources are more and more accessible to persons or smal l groups. In a neither unlock civilization, neither the acquaintance nor the materiel compulsory to be able to reserved barely in the hands of Local administration. 11 September has revealed us what theses small groups are capable of be done lacking with a few of the function-built technologies of mass demolition; in the coming days demolition might be even further demoralizing. We are blessed to facilitate the instances of the two imminent together are so far relatively limited. " (J. Gilson, 'New interregionalism The EU and East Asia', European Integration, vol. 27, no. 3, September 2005, pp. 307-26) Factor affecting Balance of power From the time when unlike financial expansion charge apparently

Marketing and Entrepreneurship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Marketing and Entrepreneurship - Essay Example The concept and significance of entrepreneurship indicated above earns further potential when linked to marketing activities. It is found that entrepreneurs mainly tied to small and medium sized business concerns with the help of potential marketing activities earned the potential to gain an enhanced space in the existing business environment. The entrepreneurial firms thus through the help of potential marketing strategies gained a competitive advantage to successfully compete with other firms in the same sector. Hence with the development of the business scenario the entrepreneurial activities are required to be increasingly linked with large scale marketing and promotional pursuits to help the entrepreneur earn success. The paper hereby discusses on the concepts of entrepreneurship through the uses of different models and draws its linkage to marketing activities. Further emphasizing on the above concepts the paper focuses on the actions and entrepreneurial processes of a specific retailer which would be analyzed through the entrepreneurial models like that of Sarasvathy’s and Burns Entrepreneurial Model and also based on the GET tests. Concept of Entrepreneurship The concept of entrepreneurship can be observed to have its emergence in relation to English and French literature when the dimensions of trade were slowly evolving. More specifically the evolution of the concept of entrepreneurship can be found to have gained in regards to French literature where the entrepreneurs were considered to be persons creating large business organizations and thereby are found to undertake large amount of business risks. Thus entrepreneurs are found to be people related to large business organizations and those with potency to manage to high amount of business risks. In the modern business context the concept of entrepreneurship earns a much larger dimension in regards to the innovative mindsets of the entrepreneur in rendering innovation to the existing organization processes and thereby enhancing the competitive advantage of the business policies. Similarly the entrepreneur working on the process of innovation can use potential technological and other resources to produce newer products and services and thus gain control of newer markets. The above discussion can be diagrammatically presented as follows. Figure 1: Entrepreneurship in Relation to Firm and

Famous Kentuckian Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Famous Kentuckian Paper - Essay Example Young Harlan followed the footsteps of his father and entered politics. It was in the age of seventeen that he was offered the position of adjutant general of Kentucky. He opposed this idea by citing his age, however in autumn he was appointed the governor. It was a demanding position for Harlan, but keeping in mind his age he was only paid $250 annually. This contract formed the basis of his political career (John Harlan). After winning the elections, Harlan was working as a country judge before the start of the Civil War. Harlan won the election for the country judge on the Know Nothing ticket, which was a Native party who was enjoying their esteem from the time span between downfall of the Whig Party and the rise of the Republican Party. Despite of the fact that it was a slave state, Harlan was a part of the Union at the time of the War. It was at that time that Harlan joined the American troops as lieutenant Colonel. He left the army in the year 1863 at the time of his fatherâ₠¬â„¢s death. He was assigned the position of Attorney General of Kentucky in the year 1864, and also supported George McClellan’s campaign against Abraham Lincoln in the same year in which the Presidential Elections were being held. In 1876 he led the Kentuckian delegation at a convention after Benjamin Bristow (his law partner) ran to be nominated for the presidential elections. The presidential elections of the year 1876 were same as the year 2000 i.e. they were fiercely contested. As a result of the election of 1876 an electoral commission came into being. Hayes was declared the winner of the elections after which he appointed a commission to figure out that which of the two Louisiana governments was more lawful than the other. Harlan was an active member of one of these two Louisiana governments. The Louisiana commission appointed came with the result that the Democrats formed a more lawful government in Louisiana. The problem with the result of the Commission was that th e board responsible for certifying the electoral victory of Hayes also announced the result of the Louisiana’s contest declaring the Republican as the winners. During his career as a Justice he struggled to remain dedicated in winning the civil rights for the colored population and tried to enforce social equality among the population. He also worked for getting regulation of the giant industry that emerged in that century. Harlan had abiding faith on the judicial system and the Federal Government that they would equally spread the economic opportunities in the country, without any racial discrimination. His characteristic made him stand out from his colleagues and gave him his separate identity. He opposed the drawbacks of the system on several occasions, which exposed him to several passionate and dissenting opinions. He also faced rejections from several legal scholars until the mid of the 20th century when his views gained acceptance and were considered prophetic by the c itizens. Justice David Davis resigned and became the Senator of Illinois at the time of tussle concerning the electoral commission. Hayes wanted a Southerner to be appointed to this position and Harlan perfectly fitted the position. At the age of 44 he was subsequently appointed the Justice to the court. Harlan’s legacy lies in his rebellions. He took opposing side in the Lochner v New York case, where he spent the maximum working hours for the labor class in order to eradicate the institution of slavery from

Bridge Discuss the complex relationship between Eddie and Catherine Essay Example for Free

Bridge Discuss the complex relationship between Eddie and Catherine Essay The play is set in a slum area in Brooklyn.Between 1861 and 1920, 30 million people immigrated into America. Many people settled by the ports as there was a steady supply of work from the ships and Eddie Carbone is one of these longshoremen.  Eddie is the forceful, irrational protagonist with many complex emotions while his niece (by marriage only) is rather naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ve and open. As they live in the same house, they spend most of their time with each other and get on well together as family.   Eddie and Beatrice (his wife) took Catherine in when her mother died and therefore, Eddie feels a great sense of responsibility; I promised your mother on her deathbed. Im responsible for you.  To Catherine, he is like a paternal figure, and she does love and respect him that way. At first, I also believe that is how Eddie thinks of her.  He provides a good home for her, puts food on the table and sees her through education, I think truly wanting the best for her- to go up in the world. His aspirations are high;  I broke my back payin her stenography lessons so she could go out and meet a better class of people.  His social aspirations for her are obviously higher than his own community- but does that mean he is snobbish of his own class? I think, perhaps slightly.  Eddies protectiveness of Catherine can be just like a normal fathers, as he says about her new skirt;  I think it too short, aint it? But often, this protectiveness can turn into dominance and possessiveness over his niece and his attitude towards her becomes unnatural. Eddie is never completely at ease. He tells her shes walkin wavy, but this is because he is subconsciously sexually attracted to her. He criticises her appearance and behaviour because she is attractive to other men and he does not like that. I think, in a way, he believes she is his and he wants her all to himself- i.e. if he cannot have her, no one can. I think to aid this, he tries to keep her a little girl, when actually, she is becoming a woman;  Youre a baby.. when you stand here by the window waving outside.  The word baby is mentioned constantly as if it will eventually persuade Catherine that she is one. This environment would be suffocating for her.  However, Beatrice isnt blind to all this;  You gonna keep her in the house all your life?  Eddie (insulted); What kinda remark is that?  She has not had sex with Eddie for quite a while and I think she knows it is because of his desire for Catherine. When Alfieri makes a joke about Catherine not being able to marry Eddie, he doesnt laugh, as he starts to realise his sexual feelings for Catherine are becoming more apparent. When Beatrice finally says;  You want somethin else, Eddie, and you can never have her!  He is stunned with silence, but I think deep down, he knows it is the truth.  Eddies positive and negative elements are often intertwined, but I think his intentions for Catherine were good; however the feelings he acquired for her should have been dealt with differently. Catherines attitude to Eddie is entirely different though. Eddie who lays down the laws heavily influences her, but she seems totally unaware of her sexual appeal generally, but especially to Eddie. Beatrice actually has to tell her about it;  but youre a grown woman and youre in the same house as a grown man. So youll act different now, heh?  Although Catherine is rather innocent, but I think that is because she is overprotected, so, in effect, there is a viscous circle. Catherines attitude to Eddie is, totally non-sexual, but after Beatrices talk, she does start to become aware of what could be going on, perhaps a little.  It didnt even cross her mind that she was a potential rival to Beatrice;  He said you was jealous?  When Catherine falls in love with Rodolfo, Eddie cannot stand this, and does everything in his power to stop it, as his subconscious desires tear him apart slowly. He even calls the immigration bureau and risks his respect (which means so much to him) for her.  I feel that both Eddie and Catherine were partly to blame for the tragic end of their relationship and in general. However, Catherine gained her confidence and independence a little more toward the end of the play. Eddies possessiveness and dominance over Catherine suffocated her into staying a baby, but I feel she could/should have been more self- aware, especially of the situation around her.

Catcher In The Rye Essay English Literature Essay

Catcher In The Rye Essay English Literature Essay People  who  shut their eyes  to  reality simply invite their own destruction, and anyone  who  insists  on  remaining  in a  state  of  innocence long after  that  innocence is  dead turns himself into  a  monster (James Baldwin). One cannot hold onto their innocence forever, the longer he or she holds onto it, the more one can lose sight of their selves. In The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, Holden Caulfield struggles in accepting his loss of innocence which leads towards his downfall. Holden is a struggling 16 year-old boy, trying to find his place in the world, a world in which allows him to retain his innocence and as he begins to move towards the adult world, he clings to his innocence in a more urgent desperation. Over the course of three days, the novel follows Holden where he eventually accepts his loss of innocence, but not without going through many struggles along the way first. Through Salingers use of symbols, the reader is able to clearly identify Holdens resistance towards becoming an adult and releasing his innocence. In The Catcher in the Rye, the author uses the Museum of Natural History, the erasing of profanity, and the carousel to reveal that a person cannot avoid his or her loss of innocence and it is difficult to accept that once it is gone, it never comes back. Holden visits his childhood spot, Museum of Natural History, symbolizing a world in which nothing has to change which in turn, Holden wishes could apply to life. While reflecting on his memories from the museum he realizes that the reason he loved it so much was because the way he could count on everything staying the same, The best thing though, in that museum was that everything always stayed right where it was. Nobodyd moveà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the only thing that would be different is you (Salinger 121). Just like the thought of preserving innocence, Holden revels in the thought of everything staying exactly the same, forever. However, Holden knows he has become different, he acknowledges this in the quote. He realizes that he possesses less innocence than he did the last time he visited the museum. The concept of stability that this quote provides makes it evident that Holden is afraid of becoming different, evolving into an adult with different views than he once held. Deep down, he a dmits that even though certain things can remain the same, he will not. He is slowly beginning to recognize the fact he has lost his innocence for good, but it comes down to his admittance of this. Although, he thinks he can protect himself, the loss of his innocence is inevitable. Holden reflects on the museums consistency and he believes a world where everything could be preserved (even though it would be impossible) would solve many problems that he holds, Certain things they should stay the way they are. You ought to be able to stick them in one of those big glass cases and just leave them alone. I know thats impossible, but its too bad anyways (Salinger 122). Holden longs for a world in which everything can stay the same. Holden wouldnt have to enter the adult world and he would never have to lose his innocence and accept his growing responsibilities in his ideal world. It is implied that some of the certain things Holden might want to preserve is Allie, his deceased brother. I f Allie was put into one of the glass cases, he would never be exposed to his death, he wouldnt have to lose his innocence. Holden recognizes the fact though that this thought is impossible. He knows there is never a way in order to protect the ones he cares about and their innocence. He knows that there is no avoidance in the loss of innocence, but he is only scared to see it will never come back. Holden arrives at the museum, only to be consumed by a feeling that changes his wanting to visit the museum, When I got to the museum, all of a sudden I wouldnt have gone inside for a million bucks (Salinger 122). Holden realizes that if he steps into the museum he will acknowledge the fact he has changed, become different. Holden sees that he has lost his innocence, but he isnt ready to admit that he has lost it for good. Holden chooses to not go into the museum in order to try and avoid his recognition of his loss of innocence. However, eventually, if not the museum something will cause Holden to see reality for what it really is. As a child, Holden held on to the fond, innocent memories of the museum. Now, grown up, he is afraid that if he sees the museum now, his innocent perspective will change forcing him to accept the fact that he has lost his innocence for good. The Museum helps Holden realize the fact that as much as he wishes things could stay the same; he knows life does not work that way. Holdens erasing of the profanity symbolized the corruption of innocence and Holdens strong sense of duty towards the children who would see it, thinking it is his responsibility to be able to preserve all of their innocence, but knowing it is impossible. While visiting Phoebes elementary school, he observes the profanity that is written on the schools wall and is taken aback, Somebodyd written Fuck you on the wall. I thought how Phoebe and all the other little kids would see ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦If you had a million years to do it in, you couldnt rub out even half the Fuck you signs in the world (Salinger 201). Holden feels that children should not be exposed to anything that has a chance of corrupting their innocence. In this incident, the exposure to the phrase Fuck you creates Holden to believe it is his duty to be the savior to all the children. Although he wants to believe that by erasing all of the Fuck you signs could save childrens innocence, he knows that it is impossible to be able to save every single child. He cannot accept the fact that these children cannot avoid their loss of innocence, just like Holden cant as well. He is worried that if these children see the phrase, they will have no way of retaining their innocence which is already impossible. Again, he comes across another profane expression carved into the schools wall, I saw another Fuck you on the wall. I tried to rub it off with my hand again, but this one was scratched on, with a knife or something. It wouldnt come off (Salinger 202). Holden is beginning to witness that some things, like innocence, cannot be avoided. Some things are unavoidable. Even though he knows that phrase is permanently etched into the wall, he still desperately tries to erase it. This is symbolic of how he desperately tries to preserve his innocence even though he is already becoming different, something that cannot be changed. While the phrase symbolizes another way to corrupt ones innocence, it becomes evident that like the etching, innocence cannot be protected forever. When Holden is at the museum, in the tomb exhibit he sees yet more profanity on the walls, only this time it is written in crayola, Youd never guess what I saw on the wall. Another Fuck you. It was written with red crayon or something, right under the glass part of the window, under the stones (Salinger 204). While Holden is beginning to realize that the Fuck you signs are everywhere, providing many opportunities for the corruption of ones innocence. It is apparent this is symbolically showing that nothing can stop the process of losing ones innocence, it is only natural. The fact that this time, the phrase was written in crayon, it is a hint that this was most likely the work of a child. Holden has been working so hard in order to save these children, he didnt consider that unlike him, they are more willing to lose their innocence and accept the fact that it is gone for good. He is finally becoming aware of the fact that chi ldren are letting go of their innocence and making that transition into adulthood, and he isnt able to control this. At one point, Holden takes Phoebe to a carousel which is symbolic of Holdens new found acceptance towards his loss of innocence and realization that he is not able to save all children from losing their innocence as well. Holden takes Phoebe to a carousel where he encourages her to ride it, without him, Maybe I will next time. Ill watch ya. I went over and sat down on the bench, and she went and got on the carousel (Salinger 211). Holden rejects Phoebes invitation to join her on the carousel, marking Holdens developing maturity. It is becoming noticeable that Holden is slowly starting to show evidence that he is accepting the fact that he knows he has lost his innocence for good. Therefore, he feels it is not necessary to partake in childish activities such as the carousel. He sees Phoebe as the one who is her innocent stage. He has already passed that stage in his life and transition into the adult world, which doesnt include riding on the carousel. Seeing Phoebe reach for the gold ring while on the carousel he begins to realize that he cannot protect children from their growing up, The thing with kids is, if they want to grab for the gold ring, you have to let them do it, and not say anything. If they fall off, they fall off, but its bad if you say anything to them (Salinger 211). The gold ring is what children would literally reach for once their horse passed under it on the carousel. Symbolically, Holden is accepting that growing up is a part of life, something that cannot be avoided. He is admitting that losing ones innocence is a part of growing up and a child cannot be protected from it forever. He realizes that adults must let children reach for their own gold rings; their dreams, hopes, and wants. Holden is acknowledging that he has to be the adult; he cannot be that child forever. Holden continues to watch Phoebe ride the carousel and is overwhelmed with happiness seeing her enjoy herself in her youth, It was just she looked so damn nice, the way she kept going around and around, in her blue coat and all (Salinger 213). Holden is seeing innocence incarnated, through Phoebe. Phoebes circling on the carousel represents seeing her innocence circling. Holden is accepting his loss of innocence and transitioning into the adult world. Watching Phoebe was almost a moment of truth for him, he realizes that one cannot avoid the loss of sense forever. He knows that eventually Phoebe will have to lose her innocence eventually but she doesnt have to yet. Holden thinks it is nice seeing Phoebe not worrying about her loss of innocence and he accepts the adult world for himself in this moment. Seeing and experiencing Phoebe on the carousel and seeing her in her innocence, Holden knows it is his time to move on, his innocence and innocent stage has come and gone and it will never come back. Learning to accept the loss of ones innocence is and to face the reality of it can be difficult for some. Through Holdens story, Salinger reveals that although it is understandable to try to protect ones innocence, it is only a foolish notion. Even in todays world, some struggle with accepting their loss of innocence. The loss of innocence can be related to taking that first sip of alcohol, or taking that first hit of marijuana. For young girls and boys, losing their virginity is an example of them giving away their innocence in an intimate act. Once some takes a drink, a smoke, or has sex, there is no going back, just like there is one cannot regain their innocence. Although these are examples of ways one can lose their innocence, it is much more complex than this. The losing of innocence marks the gradual change into the adult world where one is unable to access their childhood memories and youth. It is when one becomes an adult and fully matures that one loses his or her innocence . When one learns to accept the loss of innocence, it is then that they mark the turning point in their lives. Innocence is usually associated with ignorance and youth, so by losing this, one is accepting wisdom and adulthood. One is able to transition into the next part of their lives without the extra baggage of trying to retain their childhood. Although yearning for innocence is natural even in some ways perhaps good at some point, everyone has to face the realm of adulthood and venture into it, without the aid of their innocence to accompany them any longer.

Luck Be a Lady: Ciroc Vodka Advertisement

Luck Be a Lady: Ciroc Vodka Advertisement LUCK BE A LADY: CIROC VODKA ADVERTISIMENT Stephen Astwood Luck Be a Lady Virtually every rapper today is citing British alcohol maker Diageo’s CIROC Ultra-Premium Vodka in their lyrics. The brand seems to have found an interesting niche, more specifically that of the premium liquor market. CIROC’s â€Å"Luck Be a Lady† advert, synonymous with the song of the same name made famous by Frank Sinatra, calls upon a all-star cast with public celebrities like hip-hop entrepreneur and investor in CIROC Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs, and a assortment of male actors and female models. The men are elegantly dressed in suits with Combs (2011) first statement suggesting the strategy of the campaign, â€Å"We have arrived.† He urges them to go out and amass millions of dollars, wanting the practice become a regular habit. Combs (2011) first full statement is, â€Å"Fellas, we have arrived†¦we gone win a couple million, break the bank out here, then we gone do it all over again.† The ads next scene is them disembarking a priv ate jet in Las Vegas, where there are beautiful women to greet them with actual shots of CIROC. (Jernigan, Ostroff Ross, 2005) says, â€Å"In modern alcohol markets, the advertising and promotion of alcohol are central to the product itself. Whereas in earlier eras, alcohol may have been marketed based on the quality, purity, and price of the product, now the identity of the brand is paramount† (p. 314). This campaign strives to tell the story that connects a life of luxury and leisure with the product itself. The commercial successfully fills the objective of the formerly mentioned narrative, and encapsulates the sensation of attainment one can appreciate with having consumed CIROC. However, the representation of this lifestyle associated with a brand can have false consequences when classism and consumption becomes more than the product itself (in this case CIROC), and more about trying to keep up with the exemplified way of life. It is of no surprise that the ad echoes th e culture of which Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs is a pioneer; that of hip-hop, which today is full of images purporting classism, consumerism and to put in urban vernacular, swag over substance. The campaign pays homage to Sinatra and his contemporaries the ‘Rat Pack’, with Combs (2011) telling Soul Culture Magazine that, The Rat Pack defined the art of celebrating in style. I cannot imagine a Spirit more suitable for commemorating life with family and friends than CIROC; a brand that has become synonymous with celebratory occasions.† Thorstein Veblen (1979) says that, â€Å"In order to gain and to hold the esteem of men it is not sufficient merely to possess wealth of power. The wealth or power must be put in evidence, for esteem is awarded only on evidence† (p. 24). As Combs (2011) declares, â€Å"We have arrived†, it not only takes into account the physical arrival at a private jet facility, but the arrival to a height of social status. The depiction of this status in the ad is realized through the collection of luxury products exhibited; from the Escalades, private jet, the many of beautiful women, and of course Las Vegas, which is symbolic for infamous gambling, one of many facets that endorse pleasure as a main motivation for using it as a location to film. Merchandise like this form the basis, or give confirmation to what Veblen (1979) notes as, â€Å"putting wealth and power in evidence† (p. 24). It is contrasted with the fact that they are just drinking a brand of vodka; it connects C IROC to these high-end products. Essentially, the ad is making the statement that CIROC is not just one of the many premium liquor brands, it exceeds the others’. Particular focus is given to excess—gambling in the casinos. While the characters mention that they are looking to â€Å"rake a couple million† and â€Å"break the bank†, inferences are that they are looking to spend a great amount of money. If they are talking about millions, expandable wealth is no object to them. Throughout the advertisement we are bombarded with messages that say if you are not a part of the wealthy class, then you are not worthy. Likewise, if you buy CIROC then you will become just as happy, attractive, and successful as the people portrayed in the commercial. It has been corporate practice that marketers feed—off the uncertainties of individuals who adopt a classist attitude, seeking to elevate themselves up the economic and social ladder. Debra Goldman (2002) state s, â€Å"New-luxury consumers account for a lot of this recession resistance. They are paying premium prices not just for material things (which the old mass market supplied very efficiently) but for emotional ones: comfort, adventure, identity, and esthetic pleasure.† The commercial advocate that anything less than CIROC means you are missing out on the true emotional significance of successes and all that entails. Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs in an interview with the publication Adweek (2011) was asked, â€Å"What do you think your brand stands for?† Combs (2011) responded by saying: â€Å"I think I stand for aspiration. [That] hard work pays off.  People from all walks of life and all over the world look at  me and know my humble beginnings and know that everything  I’ve done has been through hard work. People respect me as a  marketer and brand builder.† As mentioned beforehand, there are countless references of CIROC in hip-hop culture today, so much so that the brand epitomizes the approach to the music. Such adoration toward alcohol in music, and specifically in hip-hop is not unique to CIROC. For example, MOET and CRISTAL, rightly having been observed as premium brands, have been used in the lyrics of Combs protà ©gà © the late Notorious BIG (1994, 1997) in which he says, â€Å"The back of the club sipping ‘Moet’ is where you’ll find me† and â€Å"Take their spots, take their keys, make my faculty/Live happily ever after in laughter/Hah, never seen ‘Cristal’ pour faster/And to those bastards, knuckleheads squeeze lead.† Miller and Muir (2004) note that, â€Å"As a cultural and commercial force, hip-hop’s impact is formidable: Coke, Pepsi, Gucci, Bacardi, Burberry, Mercedes, Nike and McDonald’s are among the brands that have used hip hop to sell themselves† (p. 178). While hip-hop was shaped from much more serious questions than which bottle to ‘pop’ in the club, it is thanks to endorsements from rappers in various lyrics that certain brands have enjoyed a substantial boost in popularity. The campaign suggests another cultural perception, and that is how the women are represented. Amico (1998) says that, â€Å"Advertisements promoted the image of women as childlike and sexy† (p. 19). From the onset of the commercial, the women appear in a role that is subservient and playful, regarding them as another expression of the luxurious life. The women have one speaking part; following a trend in advertising that rarely do female characters have a voice in a commercial unless it is for something directly marketed to women. Wood (1999) notes, â€Å"To be feminine in the United States is to be attractive, differential, unaggressive, emotional, nurturing, and concerned with people and relationships† (as cited in Turow McAllister, 2009, p. 193). These concepts are depicted in the commercial and emphasize the historic belief about gender roles that women as the protagonist are expected to serve the male. Although the women are dressed in attire that suggests profess ionalism, as with many modern women, when they are portrayed this way, women are seen as having to work their â€Å"second job† when they arrive home. There is less evidence than usual to suggest this advert is working to undercut any progress made for women’s rights. However, the message sent to the viewers here is that the men is the one with authority—the one in control, and the womans role is to serve; and just because the women appear successful and having a good time, it is only on the condition that she still carries out her principal duties as hostess. The campaign, â€Å"Luck Be a Lady† debuted in mid-December 2011 on both US televisions as well as online. Diageo said that the ad will run on various channels that predominantly are dedicated to music and sports. The 30 second version of the ad campaign aired over the holiday season collection of NBA games; however the original format is that of a short film. CIROC (2011) has stated in their campaign marketing that, â€Å"Ciroc has taken the stance that their marketing video needed not backstory, narrative arc or a connection to reality. No one in a decision-making capacity on their marketing team thought to ask whether it mattered that, there’s no reason for these people to be hanging out, that nothing remotely interesting goes on outside of the visual, and that it’s just kind of weird.† The reason for this strategy forms the basis of advertising success. The intertextuality with the â€Å"Rat Pack† gives fundamental basis to what the commercial i s endorsing. Olsen et al. (2003, 1993, 1995, and 2004) notes that: â€Å"Advertisements have become an integrated part of popular  culture which they parody, and by drawing upon socially  situated codes, myths, cultural discourse, and national  ideologies to develop resonant associations for consumer  goods, advertisements both constitute prevailing ideologies  and construct new mythologies and ideologies for commodities  through these dialogical and intertextual relationships.† (as cited in Turow McAllister, 2009, p. 134) The references made to the ‘Rat Pack’ are deliberate because the target market is already familiar with them and what they symbolize as CIROC is used as a form of product placement. It isn’t a blatant use of it, but still generates links that are already drawn by the audience’s knowledge. Just as actors, musicians, artist and the like come to personify their brand, Sean ‘P. Diddy Combs has come to personify CIROC. There are very few places and very few songs nowadays that don’t associate the two. In ‘Luck Be a Lady’ a variety of roles become closely tied to the message of luxury and success. The image of the ‘Rat Pack’ according to Combs was considered because it sought to emphasize what Strasser (2009) says that, â€Å"Through advertising, leisure becomes a goal of modern living, not just an attribute used to sell a product† (as cited in Turow McAllister, 2009, p. 25). Having the resources to live life the way the campaign projects, is a desire of most western consumers. The commercials statement is made more striking knowing the success Combs has attained personally; that this could actually be a day in the life of Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs. The â€Å"match-up hypothesis† is described by Till Busler (20 13) as, â€Å"The differential impact that different types of endorsers, often celebrities, have on the endorsed brand† (p. 2). Diageo notes the business has had significant growth since they affiliated Sean â€Å"Diddy† Combs. Marketing and Research Company Symphony IRI says that, â€Å"Sales (of CIROC) jumped 41% to $6.8 million in the year ended Oct. 3 2007.† Initial brand management before Combs tended to focus on the grape according to MediaCom, CIROC’s media agency until January 2011. When Aegis’ Carat (2011) took over responsibilities they said, â€Å"That whole grape story just didn’t work, because nobody really cared. It didn’t carry around enough cachet.† Through the success of advertising campaign; â€Å"Lady Be Luck†, CIROC is now positioned as a brand amongst the most successful in the world with The Spirits Business (2012) reporting that, â€Å"The sale of 1.5m cases in 2011 has helped Ciroc to become the second largest ultra-premium vodka in the US.† Combs statement to Andrew Hampp (2007) in Ad Age, summed up his relevance to the brand and the brands success in the market. He said, â€Å"I’ve branded myself as the king of celebration, and that’s what this alliance is all about.† References Amico, E.B. (Ed.) (1998). Reader’s Guide to Women’s Studies. Chicago, IL: Fitzroy Dearborn. Combs, S. (2001). Luck Be a Lady (Starring Diddy, Eva Pigford More). Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVMjRJJrQqY. Frith, K., Ping, S., Cheng, H. (2009). The Construction of Beauty: A Cultural Analysis of  Women’s Magazine Advertising. In J. Turow M.P. McAllister (Eds.), The Advertising  and Consumer Culture Reader (p. 193). New York, NY: Routledge. Goldman, D. (2002). ADWEEK: Consumer Republic. Retrieved from  http://www.adweek.com/news/consumer-republic-59788. Goldman, H. (2011). The Reel Front: Deconstructing Diddy’s Latest Ciroc Branded Film,  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Ciroc Luck Be a Lady†. Retrieved from http://therealfront.tumblr.com/post/15053011045. Hampp, A. (2007) AdvertisingAge: Hes Gone by Puffy, Diddy and Now Brand Manager.  Retrived from http://adage.com/article/news/puffy-diddy-brand-manager/121489/. Jernigan, D., Ostroff., Ross, C. (2005). Alcohol Advertising and Youth: A Measured  Approach. Journal of Public Health Policy, 26, 312-325. doi:10.1057/palgrave.jphp.3200038 . Kelly, A., Lawlor K., O’Donohoe, S. (2009). Encoding Advertisements: The Creative Perspective. In J. Turow M.P. McAllister (Eds.), The Advertising and Consumer Culture Reader (p. 134). New York, NY: Routledge. Levine, D.M. (2011). ADWEEK: Fast Chat: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs The rap mogul on the Rat Pack, his brand and building a better mousetrap. Retrieved from http://www.adweek.com/news/advertising-branding/fast-chat-sean-diddy-combs-137229. Miller, J. Muir. (2004). The Business of Brands. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley. Stresser, S. (2009). The Alien Past: Consumer Culture in Historical Perspective. In J. Turow M.P. McAllister (Eds.), The Advertising and Consumer Culture Reader (p. 25). New York, NY: Routledge. The Spirits Business: Vodka-Brand Champions 2012. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2012/07/vodka-brand-champions-2012/. Till, B.D., Busler, M. (2002). The Match-Up Hypothesis: Physical Attractiveness, Expertise, and the role of Fit on Brand Attitude, Purchase Intent and Brand Beliefs. Journal of Advertising, 29 (3), 1-13. doi:10.1080/00913367.2000.10673613. Toney. (2011). Soul Culture: Diddy’s Luck Be a Lady Commercial. Retrieved from http://www.soulculture.co.uk/culture-2/film-tv/diddys-luck-be-a-lady-ciroc-commercial-extended-version-video/. Veblen, T. (1979). The Theory of the Leisure Class. New York, NY: Penguin Books. Wallace, C. (1994). Big Poppa. On Ready to Die [CD]. New York, New York: Universal Music Group. Wallace, C. (1997). You’re Nobody Till Somebody Kills You. On Life After Death [CD]. New York, New York: Universal Music Group. Types of business travel: An overview Types of business travel: An overview Types of business travel Travelling on business can take many forms. Individuals may be travelling to meetings, to exhibitions to make sales calls to customers. There are also a lot of occasions when high amount of groups of people travel individually, or together, to take part in a conference or corporate. Companies that organise business travel are operating in a different market to those who organise conferences and events and are often different companies. However, overlap does occur, for example Kuoni is a well known tour operator, yet has an arm of its company which specialises in event management. Incentive Travel The incentive travel is offered by the employer(company) to the employee which is like a entertainment gift for them as they are travelling for free. This will make the employee very happy as they can rest at the same time as well as having fun which overall it effects the work rate of the employee when they are back as it will make them much more motivated to work harder in the future as they may gain another reward. What effect incentive travel gives to the employee Facilitating communication and networking opportunities, especially in senior management cheering the companys socially Having a better company loyalty Creating eagerness for upcoming company period Strengthening the relationship between the employee and the company Advantages for employees Every employee will feel very special and be satisfied in their job as the company has given them an fantastic opportunity to go for an great holiday which they have gain the award. It automatically changes the employees feelings in work by making them feel successful and thinking they are the best in that work place because they were rewarded an incentive travel. That may also mean they had one of the best performance in the sales team for that business because they were rewarded as not many people experience this trip because its not often many people being offered an incentive travel by their company. Exhibitions and trade fairs There are exhibitions and trade fairs for just about every type of product. Business people attend trade fairs to keep up-to-date on the latest development in their industry which shows they are competing with each other as the find suppliers for products and services and to network with colleagues. There are two aspects of the organisation of fairs and exhibitions. Firstly, there are companies who organise the exhibitions and sell stands to exhibitors. An example is Reed Exhibitions. They have a division, Red Travel Exhibitions, who focus on travel events. Lastly, there are many of business to be gained in organising travel to exhibitions and accommodation for attendees. Conferences and meetings The meetings industry Association (MIA) is the largest association for meetings industry for the UK and Ireland, providing support for venues and suppliers in the meetings environment. A company who wants to organise a large meeting, or conference, could approach the MIA to find out about companies who can make the arrangements for them. Corporate events Corporate events and hospitality is a specialist industry within travel and tourism that focuses on providing events, hospitality and entertainment to business clients. It can be know as a an incentive to an consumer because they have place a business with a different employer or to persuade businesses that may have not yet customers to an arrangement with the business. It is also seen as a good way for a company to network and make new business contacts. Corporate events take many forms – from lavish events at Wimbledon or the Henley Regatta to the owner of a business inviting his or her bank manager for a meal in a local restaurant. Many corporate hospitality functions are centred on sports events, such as golf championships, cricket, tennis, rugby and football matches. There are many specialist companies that handle all the arrangements for corporate events, from sending our invitations and ‘meet and greet’ services to providing catering and entertainment. Business Agencies This section is the role of business travel agents and the different types of agents operating in the industry. Role Business travel is concerned with providing products and services for business people travelling to meetings, attending conferences and conventions, and taking part in trade fairs and exhibitions. It also includes incentive travel, where holidays, short breaks and other travel services are offered to members of staff as an incentive to reach work targets. big business travel agencies are regularly performing on behalf of two parties when they take on their job. They are providing help needed by their customer, referred to as the consumer, on whose behalf they are making the travel schedules. They are also an agent for the corporation that is supplying the product. These companies are recognized as ‘principals’ and comprise airlines, hotels and car hire companies. Business travel is an increasingly important industry, since it is often ‘high value tourism’, earning hoteliers, caterers, transport providers, travel agents and a host of other companies’ signià ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ cant income. Business travel is considered a high value industry because: Clients often have to travel at short notice, meaning that they are not able to take advantage of discounted advance purchase rates; Business people often use high quality accommodation; Business travel invariably includes an element of entertaining business clients Travel is often in upgraded services, e.g. business class or à ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ rst class. Business travel agencies can be divided into à ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ve distinct types: 1. Independent agencies 2. National agencies 3. Global agencies 4. Implant 5. E-agent. Each type has its own particular characteristics and products. Independent agencies Across the UK, there are many independent travel agents that offer business travel arrangements. They are not part of a national chain and are often managed by the owner and a small team of staff. They may be companies that deal exclusively with business travellers, but are more likely to deal with both leisure and business clients. Unlike national agents (see below), independent travel agents are free to offer their business clients travel services from a wide range of suppliers. Independent business travel agents trade on their ability to offer their clients a very personal service, relying on word-of-mouth recommendation from satisfied customers for extra business. As well as being members of ABTA – The Travel Association, many independent business agents join consortia such as Advantage Travel or World choice in order to benefit from supplier discounts, make useful business contacts and to have their voices heard. National Agencies These are UK-based companies that are part of a national chain of travel agencies, such as Thomas Cook, Co-op Travelcare and Thomson. These agencies deal primarily with holidays and other leisure travel products, but can meet the needs of business travellers as well. Agencies that are located in parts of the country with high concentrations of companies and a large business community often generate a sizeable proportion of their turnover from business clients. Organisations of all sizes and in all sectors of the economy often need their staff to travel on business. Sole traders, members of partnerships, company directors, public sector staff, junior and senior managers, all travel from time to time on business. This could be in their local area, elsewhere in the UK, to countries in continental Europe or further afield. Implants Implants are agents operating within a business premises, so that they are on hand to look after travel requirements as needed. The agent may often work alone and is employed by a business travel agency, not by the company in whose premises they are based. E-agents As in leisure travel, there is an expanding demand for online business travel services. Some of them may be familiar with the website offering travel services, Expedia. Expedia claims that is corporate travel business, launched in 2002, is the fifth largest by turnover worldwide. Products and services Business travel agents may be dealing with small companies sending individuals on business trips to corporate clients who want all of their business travel managed. Basic services will always include: Accommodation bookings Flight bookings – either scheduled or low-cost, business, first or even economy Transfer Cars hire or rail tickets Ancillary sales, such as car parking or insurance. The agency will book accommodation for a customer and that is to find where they will stay, arrange travel such as flight bookings on specific dates, transfers to the hotel etc. Ancillary services such as insurance and parking. Management of a customer’s travel expenditures This means analysing data so that a corporation knows exactly what is being spent on business travel and where. The travel management company manage the data and make it available to the customer 24-hours a day in a spreadsheet or database. Negotiation with suppliers The agent negotiates terms on the customer’s behalf with airlines, care hire companies and hotels for accommodation which this is for the agency to find the best deals for their consumers. Products and services provided by suppliers All hotels and airlines want to tap in to the lucrative business travel market and constantly bring out new products and services to entice business travellers. Hotels offer Wi-Fi and business centres as a matter. Business customers may choose executive rooms. Even cheaper hotels, such as the premier Inn chain, offer wireless internet and meeting rooms which is what the business customers expects to have. Is Blood Thicker Than Water? Is Blood Thicker Than Water? Literature Review Draft Is Blood is Thicker than Water? Blood is thicker than water, this idiom expresses the idea that family relationships are stronger and more durable than friendship ties. This idea is reinforced through customs, traditions, and laws that give familial relationships prerogative over non-familial ties and determine who may be defined as family (Muraco, 2006). In fact this theme is so pervasive in our society that, at times, it goes unrecognized for example; should a childs parents pass away all eyes look to the next of kin or closest living relative. It is the same if there was a collection of debts that need to be paid. In the case of hospitalization in an intensive care unit, often the rule is the admittance of immediate family only. In fact, according to the Uniform Probate Code of the United States section 2-103 in the event that one dies without a will, both children and the whole of their estate go to their family (source). Many find it intriguing that it is the conventional assumption within our society that in a time of crisis, it is the presence of those we are most concerned about in our lives our family- that is of most importance. The idea that familial relationships mean more than all other types of relationships, dates back almost 600 years to 1412 (source). The fact that this idea is still prevalent today, so many centuries later, leads the author to believe that there must be something fundamentally, or qualitatively different about the relationships we have with family (mother, father, sibling), and those we have with friends. If so, what is it? The aim of this paper examines these issues and as a result suggests further research that needs to be done. networks of family support tend to be denser than friendship networks (Wellman Wortley, 1989), creating a context in which responsibilities toward family members develop (Finch Mason, 1993); responsibility is further strengthened by norms within our (Himes Reidy, 2000; Stein et al., 1998). On one hand, family relationships are continued even if there is a degree of animosity and conflict (Allan, 1996). Friendship, on the other hand, can be seen as an independent relationship that tends to be based strongly on a sense of reciprocity (Buunk Prins, 1998). We therefore expect sibling relationships to be less strongly influenced than friendships by these mechanisms. With marriage being less stable, and with the number of children falling, peer relationships potentially become increasingly important. Friendship offers a way of inventing and re-inventing the self in an authentic way throughout ones life. As such it is particularly important to women whose idea of themselves is typically rooted in social relationships. (OConnor 1999: 118) By virtue of growing up in the same family, siblings know each other intimately and develop a body of shared knowledge that may facilitate a common basis for social understanding. In 2005 Schaf, Schulman and Spitz found that siblings provide emotional support for each other, resulting in reduced anxiety that can come with being an outcast with peers. The sibling relationship ahs been shown to be increasingly valuable being as it has been found associated with lower loneliness and depression and with higher self-esteem and overall life satisfaction. Also, sibling support has been found to compensate when there is an absence of not only parental support but friendship support aswell (Anderson, 2005).. In a study about social understanding and interpersonal relationships Clarke and Dunn found that the differences in the relationship between siblings and friends are based first on the fact that there is a choice involved. Children choose their friends however they do not choose their siblings and are typically faced with living with them. They also found that sibling relationships can have attributes like hostility and ambivalence which are rarely found in friendships (2005). Among the differences between these relationships are the expectations involved. In familial relationships the emphasis is not on equality, balance, and reciprocity as is the case in friendships (Mills, Clark, Ford, Johnson, 2004). However the sibling relationship, not unlike the friend relationship requires maintenance by regular positive interaction, its does not remain ready at all times to be activated whenever the need arises (Voorspstal, 2007). The general everyday understanding of what family entails is different from everyday understanding of what friendship entails. This does not mean that family and friend relationships have no commonality, nor does it mean that people never regard friends as family or family as friends. It does, however, suggest that different forms of unity and commitment usually differentiate the two sets of relationships; specifically, the demands that family and friends generally view as legitimate to expect of each other are usually patterned differe ntly, including the consequent effect on the emotional, practical, and material resources that they are prepared to give (Ueno Adams, 2006). In 2005 a study on the sibling relationship in emerging adulthood was conducted which included interviews as part of the method. One participant gave voice to what is a common cultural belief, he wrote, I dont like my siblingsthey dont like me. If we had a choice wed never see each other again. But a family is a group of people youre stuck with for life whether you like it or not.(Leh Ruppe, 2005). Other participants reported relying on their siblings for immediate help and for care in cases of sickness. Additionally, from the qualitative responses obtained, an overwhelming number of responses contained positive comments about sibling relationships. The shift from having a non-family closest friend to having a family member as closest friend is more likely to occur amongst women, older people, lower class and, interestingly, both by getting married or by being widow(ed). That these changes in marital status lead to a shift towards a family member as closest friend is an important finding. It is well established in the literature that those who are newly separated or divorced are more likely to look to non-family members as their closest friend. This is often to avoid the feeling of being judged by family specifically parents or siblings who may have developed a good relationship with their former spouse. In the case of the death of the partner, family members are more likely to provide sympathetic support and so it is less likely that the grieving person would be made to feel judged. In the longer term, however, those who remain widowed are likely to move on from having a relative as their closest friend to having someone outside the family as their closest friend. Importantly, at various phases within the lifespan, the particular structural circumstances of peoples lives may result in both a greater reliance on friends and a reduced involvement with family (Pahl Pevalin, 2005). For example, for some young adults who are establishing their independence from their family but not (yet) started their own, that is, involved in a committed partnerships or a parental phase of life, friends may be the main component of their emotional and practical support networks (Heath Cleaver, 2003). At this time, they may have relatively little involvement with their family relationships. Without necessarily rejecting these ties, their choice is to place more emphasis on friendships with others who may be in a similar situation like unto themselves (Allen, 2008).

Religion, Barnard College Women, War, and Evangelical Biblical Interpretation after 9.11 :: September 11 Terrorism Essays

Religion, Barnard College Women, War, and Evangelical Biblical Interpretation after 9.11 One of the most disturbing things about living in New York City since 9.11 has been the way in which the U.S. has been able to wage war on Afghanistan and now maybe Iraq, with very little public outcry. I’d like to suggest that behind the apathy, certain traditions of Christian biblical interpretation may be at work, traditions that feature feminine figures in very particular ways. These are interpretive traditions around salvation history, and apocalypse. Of course, one of the reasons that many people, particularly liberals, have not opposed the war is the discourse of saving Afghan women. There have been a number of insightful postcolonial critiques of this discourse and how it harms Afghan and Muslim women—for example, Lila Abu-Lughod’s talk given at Columbia University, â€Å"Responding to War,† which built on Gayatri Spivak’s critique that so often white men feel they have to save brown women from brown men. I would like to take these critiques as a premise, but move in a slightly different direction to consider where white men get their savior-complexes. I am interested in how interpretations of the bible shape political events and how the interpretive traditions of salvation history and apocalypse may be grounding this neo-colonial discourse of saving women. Here I’m not just talking about media rhetoric, but also about how people respond to that rhetoric and how certain ways of reading the bi ble position them to respond to that rhetoric. Given that evangelicalism and fundamentalism are alive and well in the U.S, I think its important to consider how common interpretations of the bible are part of the political calculus. This might be an obvious point, but I think that those of us on the left might bemoan the Christian Right without paying attention to precisely how biblical interpretations get incorporated mainstream discourse. However, my comments here are meant to be more suggestive than conclusive. The trope of Israel as a woman gets taken up in salvation history oriented interpretations of the Hebrew Bible in predictable ways. Israel is commonly read as woman who must alternately be punished and saved, and then ultimately led into dominion over other nations. For instance, I’ve documented some examples of these kinds of reading in my work on

The Treaty of Versailles :: World War I History

The Treaty of Versailles Despite Woodrow Wilson's plan for peace near the end of World War I, he failed to gain Congressional support for the Treaty of Versailles. The Treaty of Versailles was intended to be a peace agreement between the Allies and the Germans. However, once the negotiation of the Treaty, the Allies found they had conflicting ideas and motives surrounding the reparations and wording of the Treaty. The Treaty formally placed the responsibility for the war on Germany and its allies and imposed on Germany the burden of paying the debts of war. In addition to foreign opposition, Wilson couldn't even gain support for the treaty in the United States. Because of weaknesses in the treaty, domestic opposition, and failure to compromise, the treaty gained very little congressional support. The Treaty of Versailles was very controversial. Some countries opposed the treaty due to multiple weaknesses. For example, the Treaty humiliated Germany. The war-guilt clause forces Germany to accept sole responsibility for World War I. And although German militarism had played a major role in igniting the war, other countries in Europe had been guilty of provoking diplomatic crises before the war. Another weakness in the Treaty was that Russian government felt that the Treaty ignored its needs. In the Treaty, Russia was excluded from the peace conference, even though Russians had fought with the Allies for three year, and suffered higher casualties than any other country. There was also much dispute concerning the distribution of territory in the Treaty. The Treaty of Versailles established nine new countries, and changed many boundaries, and there was debate about the fairness. There was also much opposition to the treaty in the United States, which is what Woodrow Wilson faces when he returned with the treaty. Some people, including Herbert Hoover, believed it was too harsh. Others didn't think the treaty really did any good because it shifted the set of colonial rulers to another set, instead of eliminating the imperialism. Also, some minorities objected to the treaty because the new boundaries it established for some countries didn't satisfy their demands for independence. For example, Wilson hadn't tried to obtain Ireland's independence from Great Britain. Most of all, the opposition to the treaty in the United States was the debate over the League of Nations. A few opponents believed that the League of Nations threatened the U.S. foreign policy of staying clear of European affairs, the Monroe Doctrine.