"The deep grief which this scene had at first excited quickly gave way to rage and despair. They were dead and I lived; their murderer also lived, and to destroy him I must drag out my own weary existence." -page 150
During this scene, Victor Frankenstein is visiting the cemetary where his deceased family members are. As he kneels on the ground near his father, Elizabeth, and William, he makes his depression and grief known. This has all happened to Victor because of his decision to create the monster. I think an important point that is trying to be expressed is that knowledge is not always a good thing. Victor's knowledge, which motivated and allowed him to create the monster, has tied him down and has only complicated his life regarding every aspect. Being the only one to know how to do something can be rewarding at times, but this is definitely not true in Victor's circumstances. Because he was the only one who knew how to create life with his knowledge, his talents were no longer beneficial. They only created destruction and stress in his life. Victor understands this concept after it is too late for him, but he tells his story to Robert regarding the thirst for knowledge to avoid the same thing from happening all over again.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Blog #9 The Monster's Request
"You must create a female for me, with whom I can live in the interchange of those sympathies necessary for my being. This alone you can do; and I demand it of you as a right which you must not refuse to concede." -page 104
At this point in the story, the monster presents Victor with his idea that it would be appropriate for Victor to create him a companion. During this conversation between Victor and the monster, I feel sympathy for both characters at different times. First, I feel bad for the monster. He has been rejected by people over and over again, and he has no one that will interact with him. The monster just wants to love and be loved, but his appearance is too much for humans to handle. I do feel bad that he is always alone and has no female companion, but I also feel bad for Frankenstein in this situation. He doesn't want anything to do with the monster at this point, but he has to make a difficult decision. Either way he decides, there are negative consequences that Victor must face. The monster sort of blackmails Victor into consenting to his plans. With his safety and the safety of his friends and family in jeopardy, Victor has no choice but to agree with what the monster wants.
At this point in the story, the monster presents Victor with his idea that it would be appropriate for Victor to create him a companion. During this conversation between Victor and the monster, I feel sympathy for both characters at different times. First, I feel bad for the monster. He has been rejected by people over and over again, and he has no one that will interact with him. The monster just wants to love and be loved, but his appearance is too much for humans to handle. I do feel bad that he is always alone and has no female companion, but I also feel bad for Frankenstein in this situation. He doesn't want anything to do with the monster at this point, but he has to make a difficult decision. Either way he decides, there are negative consequences that Victor must face. The monster sort of blackmails Victor into consenting to his plans. With his safety and the safety of his friends and family in jeopardy, Victor has no choice but to agree with what the monster wants.
Blog #8 Literary Term: Dynamic Character
"I will exert myself; and if it is in my power to seize the monster, be assured that he shall suffer punishment proportionate to his crimes." -page 148
Dynamic character: is one who changes in some important way as a result of the story's action
Throughout the story, Victor Frankenstein is constantly trying to avoid the monster that he created. As soon as the monster comes to life, Victor immediately rejects the creature. He clearly wants nothing to do with him, and he wants to forget about the monster even existing. This attitude of hatred and anger against the monster also remain constant throughout the plot, but his desire to stay away from the monster changes. When Victor does not feel that his friends and family are threatened by the monster, he avoids contact with the monster at all costs. However, once he realizes what the monster is capable of, he starts to worry about his safety and the safety of his family. After too much death and destruction occurs for Victor to handle, he finally decides to make a change. It is on his wedding night when Elizabeth is killed that he takes on a new attitude about the monster. He has now decided to go after the monster to seek out justice and revenge for all the bad things that the monster has done.
Dynamic character: is one who changes in some important way as a result of the story's action
Throughout the story, Victor Frankenstein is constantly trying to avoid the monster that he created. As soon as the monster comes to life, Victor immediately rejects the creature. He clearly wants nothing to do with him, and he wants to forget about the monster even existing. This attitude of hatred and anger against the monster also remain constant throughout the plot, but his desire to stay away from the monster changes. When Victor does not feel that his friends and family are threatened by the monster, he avoids contact with the monster at all costs. However, once he realizes what the monster is capable of, he starts to worry about his safety and the safety of his family. After too much death and destruction occurs for Victor to handle, he finally decides to make a change. It is on his wedding night when Elizabeth is killed that he takes on a new attitude about the monster. He has now decided to go after the monster to seek out justice and revenge for all the bad things that the monster has done.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Blog #7 Literary Term: Point of View
"...we entered the hut, the fiend with an air of exultation, I with a heavy heart and depressed spirits. But I consented to listen, and seating myself by the fire which my odious companion had lighted, he thus began his tale." -page 70
Point of View: the vantage point from which the writer tells the story
This story is told in the first person point of view. It is different from most books that have the first person point of view because there are multiple narrators during different sections of the book. At all points, one of the characters are describing things and telling the story from their viewpoint. The book first begins with Robert Walton's perspective for a short time, and then it quickly moves to Victor Frankenstein's framestory. On page 70, there is another shift in point of view from Frankenstein to the monster. This shows the reader what emotions the monster is feeling and what challenges he has gone through. This transition is important because it allows the reader to better understand the background of the monster. The change in point of view at this point was significant for me personally because it got rid of the stereotypical views of the monster in my mind. It made me step back and take a look at the situation in the monster's eyes, which caused me to feel sympathy for him when I hadn't before he told his story.
Point of View: the vantage point from which the writer tells the story
This story is told in the first person point of view. It is different from most books that have the first person point of view because there are multiple narrators during different sections of the book. At all points, one of the characters are describing things and telling the story from their viewpoint. The book first begins with Robert Walton's perspective for a short time, and then it quickly moves to Victor Frankenstein's framestory. On page 70, there is another shift in point of view from Frankenstein to the monster. This shows the reader what emotions the monster is feeling and what challenges he has gone through. This transition is important because it allows the reader to better understand the background of the monster. The change in point of view at this point was significant for me personally because it got rid of the stereotypical views of the monster in my mind. It made me step back and take a look at the situation in the monster's eyes, which caused me to feel sympathy for him when I hadn't before he told his story.
Blog #6 Literary Term: Conflict
"His words had a strange effect upon me. I compassionated him and sometimes felt a wish to console him; but when I looked upon him, when I saw the filthy mass that moved and talked, my heart sickened and my feelings were altered to those of horror and hatred." -page 106
Conflict: the struggle between opposing forces or characters in a story
This part of the story occurs when Frankenstein comes face to face with the creature and fully interacts with him for the first time. At this point, when the monster finally gets Frankenstein to come to his hut and listen to his story, Frankenstein doesn't know what to do, say, or think. His emotions are constantly swaying and going back and forth. He is dealing with an emotional and internal conflict. This becomes very apparent when the monster presents his request for a female companion just like him to Frankenstein. Frankenstein has to think about the benefits and consequences of creating another monster versus not creating another monster. He has to think about the safety of his friends, family, and community before he makes his final choice. He begins to feel sympathy and sadness for the monster at points, and then his feelings change when he even looks at the monster. Weighing all of the factors to the best of his ability, Frankenstein finally decides to comply with the monster's request even though creating another monster will also add to the internal conflict that he is deal with.
Conflict: the struggle between opposing forces or characters in a story
This part of the story occurs when Frankenstein comes face to face with the creature and fully interacts with him for the first time. At this point, when the monster finally gets Frankenstein to come to his hut and listen to his story, Frankenstein doesn't know what to do, say, or think. His emotions are constantly swaying and going back and forth. He is dealing with an emotional and internal conflict. This becomes very apparent when the monster presents his request for a female companion just like him to Frankenstein. Frankenstein has to think about the benefits and consequences of creating another monster versus not creating another monster. He has to think about the safety of his friends, family, and community before he makes his final choice. He begins to feel sympathy and sadness for the monster at points, and then his feelings change when he even looks at the monster. Weighing all of the factors to the best of his ability, Frankenstein finally decides to comply with the monster's request even though creating another monster will also add to the internal conflict that he is deal with.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Blog #5 The Monster
"You accuse me of murder, and yet you would, with a satisfied conscience, destroy your own creature." -page 69
This is basically a slap in the face for Frankenstein from the monster that he created. He is essentially being called a hypocrite by the creature that he has given life to. I find this very interesting and surprising because it shows how intelligent the monster really is. The monster is fully aware of his circumstances, which is extremelty impressive and unexpected at the same time. This scene is also very important because it conveys that the creature has feelings. He is hurt and upset by the fact that his creator completely abandoned him. The monster also shows his intelligence during this part of the book when he convinces Frankenstein to listen to what he has to say. He basically outsmarts Victor, giving him no choice but to listen to the monster's tale. This scene is a key part of the story, because it allows the reader to learn about the creature and better understand him.
This is basically a slap in the face for Frankenstein from the monster that he created. He is essentially being called a hypocrite by the creature that he has given life to. I find this very interesting and surprising because it shows how intelligent the monster really is. The monster is fully aware of his circumstances, which is extremelty impressive and unexpected at the same time. This scene is also very important because it conveys that the creature has feelings. He is hurt and upset by the fact that his creator completely abandoned him. The monster also shows his intelligence during this part of the book when he convinces Frankenstein to listen to what he has to say. He basically outsmarts Victor, giving him no choice but to listen to the monster's tale. This scene is a key part of the story, because it allows the reader to learn about the creature and better understand him.
Blog #4 Justine
"I dared not ask the fatal question; but I was known, and the officer guessed the cause of my visit. The ballots had been thrown; they were all black, and Justine was condemned." -page 57
I felt so bad for Justine because of everything that she had to go through. She had to suffer for something that she clearly didn't do. She was only a young girl, and she had to go through a trial in front of many people who had already decided that she was guilty beforehand. At this point, when things got this bad, I thought that Frankenstein would show some courage and step up to do something about this. He clearly knew that Justine was not capable of such a crime, and he also knew who it was that really killed William. As a reader, I became somewhat frustrated with Frankenstein for not handling the situation in a better manner. I expected him to take some responsibility for once and accept the consequences for what he created. I thought that Frankenstein should have taken some ownership in order to preserve the innocent life of Justine. Although her role is very sad, Justine is an essential character in the story. Her unjust death really gives Frankenstein a wake up call. It is at this point that he finally realizes that he has to stop this madness and confront the creature that he has created at some point if he wants to make things right.
I felt so bad for Justine because of everything that she had to go through. She had to suffer for something that she clearly didn't do. She was only a young girl, and she had to go through a trial in front of many people who had already decided that she was guilty beforehand. At this point, when things got this bad, I thought that Frankenstein would show some courage and step up to do something about this. He clearly knew that Justine was not capable of such a crime, and he also knew who it was that really killed William. As a reader, I became somewhat frustrated with Frankenstein for not handling the situation in a better manner. I expected him to take some responsibility for once and accept the consequences for what he created. I thought that Frankenstein should have taken some ownership in order to preserve the innocent life of Justine. Although her role is very sad, Justine is an essential character in the story. Her unjust death really gives Frankenstein a wake up call. It is at this point that he finally realizes that he has to stop this madness and confront the creature that he has created at some point if he wants to make things right.
Blog #3 Literary Term: Flashback
"...nothing can alter my destiny; listen to my history, and you will perceive how irrevocably it is determined." -page 13
This scene between Robert and Victor is taking place in the very beginning of the story, and it is also a part of the letter that Robert is writing to his sister. Here, Victor is trying to convey to Robert that his destiny is already decided. When Robert doesn't understand and starts to ask questions, Victor decides to tell Robert his story. Victor's story would be considered a flashback or a framestory. This flashback on Victor's past experiences is so important to the book because it is a cautionary and warning story. It is also important because it creates parallels between Victor and Robert. Through the flashbacks of Victor and what we already know about Robert, readers can see how similar the two characters are, which explains why they relate to each other so quickly when they first meet. The framestory informs the reader that both characters have a goal and separate themselves from the outside world to reach it. Also, it shows that Robert and Victor are both trying to do something that has not been done and that they are obsessed with these aspirations. Finally, it shows that they are both very close to their sisters. The flashbacks and framestory from Victor's point of view allows the reader to see the clear connection between Victor and Robert.
This scene between Robert and Victor is taking place in the very beginning of the story, and it is also a part of the letter that Robert is writing to his sister. Here, Victor is trying to convey to Robert that his destiny is already decided. When Robert doesn't understand and starts to ask questions, Victor decides to tell Robert his story. Victor's story would be considered a flashback or a framestory. This flashback on Victor's past experiences is so important to the book because it is a cautionary and warning story. It is also important because it creates parallels between Victor and Robert. Through the flashbacks of Victor and what we already know about Robert, readers can see how similar the two characters are, which explains why they relate to each other so quickly when they first meet. The framestory informs the reader that both characters have a goal and separate themselves from the outside world to reach it. Also, it shows that Robert and Victor are both trying to do something that has not been done and that they are obsessed with these aspirations. Finally, it shows that they are both very close to their sisters. The flashbacks and framestory from Victor's point of view allows the reader to see the clear connection between Victor and Robert.
Blog #2 Literary Terms: Irony
"I expected this reception," said the daemon. "All men hate the wretched; how, then, must I be hated, who am miserable beyond all living things!" -page 68
There is one case of irony that stuck out to me so far in the book. This was when Frankenstein finally comes face to face with the creature that he has created. When Frankenstein was trying so hard to get away from his stress, he confronts the person that has created all of the stress in his life. As the reader, I expected his creation to be unintelligent. I was shocked to see that the creature could actually speak and could actually understand what is going on around him. The monster fully comprehends his situation, and he actually begins to outsmart Victor. This circumstance is ironic because it shows creation dominating or overpowering creator, which is not usually the case. This is also ironic because it shows that Victor has completely underestimated himself. He never thought that he could create such a powerful and smart creature, yet he is realizing what he actually did for the first time. This was something that Victor strived for and worked towards for a great deal of time, but he immediately regretted his actions once the creature actually came to life. It is ironic that Victor rejects his own creation that he put so much time, work, and effort into.
There is one case of irony that stuck out to me so far in the book. This was when Frankenstein finally comes face to face with the creature that he has created. When Frankenstein was trying so hard to get away from his stress, he confronts the person that has created all of the stress in his life. As the reader, I expected his creation to be unintelligent. I was shocked to see that the creature could actually speak and could actually understand what is going on around him. The monster fully comprehends his situation, and he actually begins to outsmart Victor. This circumstance is ironic because it shows creation dominating or overpowering creator, which is not usually the case. This is also ironic because it shows that Victor has completely underestimated himself. He never thought that he could create such a powerful and smart creature, yet he is realizing what he actually did for the first time. This was something that Victor strived for and worked towards for a great deal of time, but he immediately regretted his actions once the creature actually came to life. It is ironic that Victor rejects his own creation that he put so much time, work, and effort into.
Blog #1 Literary Terms: Theme
"I desire the company of a man who could sympathise with me; whose eyes would reply to mine. You may deem me romantic, my dear sister, but I bitterly feel the want of a friend." -page 4
The theme of alienation occurs very often in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein". Alienation can be applied to multiple characters in the book so far. First of all, Victor's father-in-law, who was his dad's friend, alienates himself because he is poor and ashamed of this. Also, Robert needs a friend and feels alone because he feels alone on his journey. He feels isolated from everyone else and misses his family. He expressed these feelings in his letters to his sister. In addition, Victor feels uncomfortable and feels like he doesn't belong once he gets on the boat with Robert and his crew. Victor also alienates himself in order to create his new form of life. He no longer has communication with the outside world, including his family while at school. After Victor brought his monster to life, he then alienated himself from everyone again by going into the mountains and reflecting by himself.
The theme of alienation occurs very often in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein". Alienation can be applied to multiple characters in the book so far. First of all, Victor's father-in-law, who was his dad's friend, alienates himself because he is poor and ashamed of this. Also, Robert needs a friend and feels alone because he feels alone on his journey. He feels isolated from everyone else and misses his family. He expressed these feelings in his letters to his sister. In addition, Victor feels uncomfortable and feels like he doesn't belong once he gets on the boat with Robert and his crew. Victor also alienates himself in order to create his new form of life. He no longer has communication with the outside world, including his family while at school. After Victor brought his monster to life, he then alienated himself from everyone again by going into the mountains and reflecting by himself.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Blog #10 The Importance of the Past
"As I waited for his reply, my mind flashed back to a winter day from long ago, Hassan and I sitting on the snow beneath a leafless sour cherry tree. I had played a cruel game with Hassan that day, toyed with him, asked him if he would chew dirt to prove his loyalty to me. Now I was the one under the microscope, the one who had to prove my worthiness. I deserved this." -Page 355
The past plays such an important role in "The Kite Runner". All of the characters are affected by the past in some way or another in the plot of the story. However, the most important characters that deal with their pasts on a regular basis are Amir and Sohrab. Amir's past comes up when he constantly deals with emotions like anxiety and guilt. He experienced these feelings from the many things that happened between Hassan and him. Amir also deals with his past when he meets Assef once again in order to get custody of Sohrab. In addition to Amir, Sohrab also must cope with the issues of his past. Sohrab is constantly reminded of the brutal death of his innocent parents by Talibs. He is also scarred by the abuse that he received from Assef. Assef left Sohrab with emotional damage and distress because of physical and sexual abuse. The pasts of Amir and Sohrab are such a big deal because they define the two characters overall.
The past plays such an important role in "The Kite Runner". All of the characters are affected by the past in some way or another in the plot of the story. However, the most important characters that deal with their pasts on a regular basis are Amir and Sohrab. Amir's past comes up when he constantly deals with emotions like anxiety and guilt. He experienced these feelings from the many things that happened between Hassan and him. Amir also deals with his past when he meets Assef once again in order to get custody of Sohrab. In addition to Amir, Sohrab also must cope with the issues of his past. Sohrab is constantly reminded of the brutal death of his innocent parents by Talibs. He is also scarred by the abuse that he received from Assef. Assef left Sohrab with emotional damage and distress because of physical and sexual abuse. The pasts of Amir and Sohrab are such a big deal because they define the two characters overall.
Blog #9 Half Brothers
"I began to see where he was going. But I didn't want to hear the rest of it. I had a good life in California, pretty Victorian home with a peaked roof, a good marriage, a promising writing career, in-laws who loved me. I didn't need any of this shit."
-Page 222
This is the point in the plot where Amir finds out from Rahim Khan that he and Hassan are half brothers. At this time when I was reading, I felt sympathy for a number of people when I figured out what was going on. I felt bad for Hassan first because he never knew that Baba was his real father. He was always in the background and never got to experience the life that Baba could have provided for him. He never lived the life that he deserved to experience. Secondly, I felt bad for Amir because he realizes that his childhood was based off of one huge lie. He treated his brother Hassan horribly, and now he has to live with that guilt for the rest of his life. He also has to live with the fact that his father couldn't love his brother the way that he wanted to. Next, I felt bad for Baba, who had to keep this affair a secret for so long. I sympathize with him also because he could never have an ideal relationship with Hassan and provide for him fully. He had to lie and keep his emotions in check for years and years. Lastly, I felt upset for Rahim Khan. He was brave enough to tell Amir the truth, yet Amir rejects him and becomes angry with him. This revealing moment in the story is a huge deal because it evokes emotion and purpose for multiple characters.
-Page 222
This is the point in the plot where Amir finds out from Rahim Khan that he and Hassan are half brothers. At this time when I was reading, I felt sympathy for a number of people when I figured out what was going on. I felt bad for Hassan first because he never knew that Baba was his real father. He was always in the background and never got to experience the life that Baba could have provided for him. He never lived the life that he deserved to experience. Secondly, I felt bad for Amir because he realizes that his childhood was based off of one huge lie. He treated his brother Hassan horribly, and now he has to live with that guilt for the rest of his life. He also has to live with the fact that his father couldn't love his brother the way that he wanted to. Next, I felt bad for Baba, who had to keep this affair a secret for so long. I sympathize with him also because he could never have an ideal relationship with Hassan and provide for him fully. He had to lie and keep his emotions in check for years and years. Lastly, I felt upset for Rahim Khan. He was brave enough to tell Amir the truth, yet Amir rejects him and becomes angry with him. This revealing moment in the story is a huge deal because it evokes emotion and purpose for multiple characters.
Blog #8 Literary Term: Dynamic Character
Dynamic Character: one who changes in some important way as a result of the story's action
"For you, a thousand times over," I heard myself say. -Page 371
Amir is a character that goes through an extremely important and essential change in the novel. In the beginning of the story, Amir is a child and his actions reflect that. He is not a loyal friend and is very selfish in most, if not all, situations. His attitude has a negative impact on his life because it destroys his relationship with Hassan and creates guilt and anxiety that he must deal with for the rest of his life. In the final section of the book, Amir's life, personality, and attitude has changed drastically. He has made up for all of the bad things that he did in the past and is focusing on redemption and hope. He plays the role of a father-like figure for Sohrab now, and he has learned to be brave and stand up for himself and what he believes is right. His selfish ways are no longer a factor because he has Sohrab to care for. Amir now understands what it feels like to be a father and realizes the sacrifices and love that it takes. This transition is made obvious when Amir says, "for you, a thousand times over".
"For you, a thousand times over," I heard myself say. -Page 371
Amir is a character that goes through an extremely important and essential change in the novel. In the beginning of the story, Amir is a child and his actions reflect that. He is not a loyal friend and is very selfish in most, if not all, situations. His attitude has a negative impact on his life because it destroys his relationship with Hassan and creates guilt and anxiety that he must deal with for the rest of his life. In the final section of the book, Amir's life, personality, and attitude has changed drastically. He has made up for all of the bad things that he did in the past and is focusing on redemption and hope. He plays the role of a father-like figure for Sohrab now, and he has learned to be brave and stand up for himself and what he believes is right. His selfish ways are no longer a factor because he has Sohrab to care for. Amir now understands what it feels like to be a father and realizes the sacrifices and love that it takes. This transition is made obvious when Amir says, "for you, a thousand times over".
Blog #7 Literary Term: Climax
Climax: the point in a plot that creates the greatest intensity, suspense, or interest
"The slingshot made a thhwiiiiit sound when Sohrab released the cup. Then Assef was screaming. He put his had where his left eye had been just a moment ago..." -Page 291
"Suddenly I was on my knees, screaming. Screaming through my clenched teeth. Screaming until I thought my throat would rip and my chest explode..." -Page 343
I think that there are two important climactic points in this novel that stuck out to me. The first of the two would be during the brutal fight between Assef and Amir. The suspense reaches its highest point when Sohrab has the loaded slingshot and is threatening Assef is he doesn't stop hurting Amir. The moment that Sohrab decides to shoot the slingshot is a huge turning point in the story because it ultimately saves Amir's life. I think that the second climax is when Amir walks in the bathroom to tell Sohrab that they can go to America. When he walks in and screams, the reader realizes that something terrible obviously happened to Sohrab. Because Amir doesn't directly say what happened to Sohrab, the reader experiences intensity and interest in the condition of him. Amir's point of view creates suspense at this point in the story because the chapter ends with the reader having no idea about Sohrab's safety.
"The slingshot made a thhwiiiiit sound when Sohrab released the cup. Then Assef was screaming. He put his had where his left eye had been just a moment ago..." -Page 291
"Suddenly I was on my knees, screaming. Screaming through my clenched teeth. Screaming until I thought my throat would rip and my chest explode..." -Page 343
I think that there are two important climactic points in this novel that stuck out to me. The first of the two would be during the brutal fight between Assef and Amir. The suspense reaches its highest point when Sohrab has the loaded slingshot and is threatening Assef is he doesn't stop hurting Amir. The moment that Sohrab decides to shoot the slingshot is a huge turning point in the story because it ultimately saves Amir's life. I think that the second climax is when Amir walks in the bathroom to tell Sohrab that they can go to America. When he walks in and screams, the reader realizes that something terrible obviously happened to Sohrab. Because Amir doesn't directly say what happened to Sohrab, the reader experiences intensity and interest in the condition of him. Amir's point of view creates suspense at this point in the story because the chapter ends with the reader having no idea about Sohrab's safety.
Blog #6 Literary Term: Antagonist
Antagonist: opponent who struggles against or blocks the hero, or protagonist, in a story
"But he was already here, in the flesh, sitting less than ten feet from me, after all these years. His name escaped my lips: Assef." -Page 281
The main antagonist or villian in "The Kite Runner" is Assef. He is the source of much evil in the story, and his role model is Hitler. Assef is always popping up and causing trouble during Amir's childhood. It is Assef's decision to rape Hassan thatultimately causes dissension and separation between Hassan and Amir. Unlike Amir, Assef is not capable of change and conversion. He constantly abuses others and takes advantage of those who do not have power. Just when Amir thinks that he is done dealing with Assef, Assef turns out to be the Talib in the dark sunglasses that has custody of Sohrab, Hassan's son. After many years, Amir finally learns how to be brave and stand up to Assef. Even though Assef gives Amir so much trouble throughout the entire story, is is Assef who finally gets Amir to be the type of man that Amir's father wanted him to be.
"But he was already here, in the flesh, sitting less than ten feet from me, after all these years. His name escaped my lips: Assef." -Page 281
The main antagonist or villian in "The Kite Runner" is Assef. He is the source of much evil in the story, and his role model is Hitler. Assef is always popping up and causing trouble during Amir's childhood. It is Assef's decision to rape Hassan thatultimately causes dissension and separation between Hassan and Amir. Unlike Amir, Assef is not capable of change and conversion. He constantly abuses others and takes advantage of those who do not have power. Just when Amir thinks that he is done dealing with Assef, Assef turns out to be the Talib in the dark sunglasses that has custody of Sohrab, Hassan's son. After many years, Amir finally learns how to be brave and stand up to Assef. Even though Assef gives Amir so much trouble throughout the entire story, is is Assef who finally gets Amir to be the type of man that Amir's father wanted him to be.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Blog #5 Baba
"He had the same resolved look on his face as the day he'd dropped the stack of food stamps on Mrs. Dobbin's desk." -Page 156
Throughout the entire story, Baba maintains his stubborn attitude. His stubborn ways become especially apparent when he and Amir move to America to start a new life. First, Baba refuses to learn English like Amir suggests. He also takes back the food stamps that he is given by their eligibility officer in San Jose. Finally, Baba refuses any kind of chemo medication or treatment when he finds out that he has cancer. He doesn't even allow Amir to tell anyone what is going on with his health. Even during the ups and downs that came with immigrating to America and starting over again, Baba remains "hardheaded" and "far too proud" for his own good. When Amir finally makes him go to a pulmonologist, Baba refuses to even speak to the first doctor after hearing that he was from Russia. Even though Dr. Schneider was born in Michigan, Baba could not allow himself to look past the Russian background of the man. Baba's obstinate personality may get in the way sometimes, but it is a part of who he is and who he has always been.
Throughout the entire story, Baba maintains his stubborn attitude. His stubborn ways become especially apparent when he and Amir move to America to start a new life. First, Baba refuses to learn English like Amir suggests. He also takes back the food stamps that he is given by their eligibility officer in San Jose. Finally, Baba refuses any kind of chemo medication or treatment when he finds out that he has cancer. He doesn't even allow Amir to tell anyone what is going on with his health. Even during the ups and downs that came with immigrating to America and starting over again, Baba remains "hardheaded" and "far too proud" for his own good. When Amir finally makes him go to a pulmonologist, Baba refuses to even speak to the first doctor after hearing that he was from Russia. Even though Dr. Schneider was born in Michigan, Baba could not allow himself to look past the Russian background of the man. Baba's obstinate personality may get in the way sometimes, but it is a part of who he is and who he has always been.
Blog #4 Literary Term: Irony
"Then he told Baba about Kamal. I caught only snippets of it: Should have never let him go alone...always so handsome, you know...four of them...tried to fight...God....took him...bleeding down there...his pants...doesn't talk anymore...just stares..." -Page 120
IRONY: a discrepancy between appearances and reality
There are many cases of irony in "The Kite Runner". One of the first situations involving irony that stood out to me was when Amir chose to leave Hassan instead of helping him. He chose the kite over his best friend because he thought that the kite would bring him happiness and lead to approval from his father. Amir thought that the blue kite was his key to success, but it actually did the opposite for him. The cost that came with the kite would haunt Amir for the rest of his life. Leaving Hassan in exchange for the kite actually turned Amir into the type of person his father despised the most.
Another example of irony also involves Hassan's rape, but it revolves around Kamal, one of the bullies present that day in the alley. He was the one who was worried about his parents finding out about the rape because he didn't want to get into trouble. He doesn't directly take part in the rape, but he holds Hassan down while Assef does it. This is ironic because Kamal ends up getting raped too later in the book. Just like Hassan, he is no longer himself and doesn't even speak. Kamal stood by and let Hassan get raped by Assef, and then it happens to him after that. He now goes through what he helped put someone else through, which is very ironic.
IRONY: a discrepancy between appearances and reality
There are many cases of irony in "The Kite Runner". One of the first situations involving irony that stood out to me was when Amir chose to leave Hassan instead of helping him. He chose the kite over his best friend because he thought that the kite would bring him happiness and lead to approval from his father. Amir thought that the blue kite was his key to success, but it actually did the opposite for him. The cost that came with the kite would haunt Amir for the rest of his life. Leaving Hassan in exchange for the kite actually turned Amir into the type of person his father despised the most.
Another example of irony also involves Hassan's rape, but it revolves around Kamal, one of the bullies present that day in the alley. He was the one who was worried about his parents finding out about the rape because he didn't want to get into trouble. He doesn't directly take part in the rape, but he holds Hassan down while Assef does it. This is ironic because Kamal ends up getting raped too later in the book. Just like Hassan, he is no longer himself and doesn't even speak. Kamal stood by and let Hassan get raped by Assef, and then it happens to him after that. He now goes through what he helped put someone else through, which is very ironic.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Blog #3 Literary Term: Theme
"I lifted Hassan's mattress and planted my new watch and a handful of Afghani bills under it. I waited another thirty minutes. Then I knocked on Baba's door and told what I hoped would be the last in a long line of shameful lies." -Page 104
THEME: the insight about human life that is revealed in a literary work
Througout the half of the book that I have read so far, one common theme regarding the character of Amir has stood out to me. From his early years as a child even up until his early twenties, Amir constantly thinks about himself. During his childhood, his number one priority is getting the approval and love from his father that he has always wanted. Amir wants this more than anything, and he is willing to do anything to get it. He lets his best friend get raped just so he could have the last kite from the kite fighting tournament. Then, he lies about Hassan and Ali stealing his new watch and money. He never thinks about how his decisions have the power to change the course of someone's life. As Amir grows up and immigrates to America with his father Baba, there are still times that he shows his selfish side. For example, when Baba gets sick and may have cancer, Amir's first thoughts revolve around himself. He asks, "What about me, Baba? What am I supposed to do?". He is supposed to be a grown man who was learned to care for himself, but he still relies on Baba. Because he needs to change, I hope that Amir learns to not be selfish in the second half of the book.
THEME: the insight about human life that is revealed in a literary work
Througout the half of the book that I have read so far, one common theme regarding the character of Amir has stood out to me. From his early years as a child even up until his early twenties, Amir constantly thinks about himself. During his childhood, his number one priority is getting the approval and love from his father that he has always wanted. Amir wants this more than anything, and he is willing to do anything to get it. He lets his best friend get raped just so he could have the last kite from the kite fighting tournament. Then, he lies about Hassan and Ali stealing his new watch and money. He never thinks about how his decisions have the power to change the course of someone's life. As Amir grows up and immigrates to America with his father Baba, there are still times that he shows his selfish side. For example, when Baba gets sick and may have cancer, Amir's first thoughts revolve around himself. He asks, "What about me, Baba? What am I supposed to do?". He is supposed to be a grown man who was learned to care for himself, but he still relies on Baba. Because he needs to change, I hope that Amir learns to not be selfish in the second half of the book.
Blog #2 Literary Term: Symbol
"Hassan didn't struggle. Didn't even whimper. He moved his head slightly and I caught a glimpse of his face. Saw the resignation in it. It was a look I had seen before. It was the look of the lamb." -Page 76
SYMBOL: a person, place, thing, or event that has meaning in itself and that also stands for something more than itself
The lamb is an extremely important symbol in "The Kite Runner". In many religions, the lamb symbolizes and stands for sacrifice, especially of something innocent. It is connected to the character of Hassan in this story. Hassan did nothing to deserve what was done to him in that alley, which negatively affected every aspect of his life. His childhood was taken from him, and his friendship with Amir would never ever be the same. He could have easily given up the blue kite that Amir had asked him to run. However, he chose to be faithful to Amir, who honestly wasn't the best friend and didn't deserve such kindness and loyalty. Even when Assef, Mali, and Kamal told Hassan about how badly Amir really treated him, Hassan still remained devoted and dedicated to Amir. In this situation, Hassan proves once again that he is a great friend to Amir and would do anything for Amir to be happy. Even if he had to suffer, he would do it all "a thousand times over" for Amir.
SYMBOL: a person, place, thing, or event that has meaning in itself and that also stands for something more than itself
The lamb is an extremely important symbol in "The Kite Runner". In many religions, the lamb symbolizes and stands for sacrifice, especially of something innocent. It is connected to the character of Hassan in this story. Hassan did nothing to deserve what was done to him in that alley, which negatively affected every aspect of his life. His childhood was taken from him, and his friendship with Amir would never ever be the same. He could have easily given up the blue kite that Amir had asked him to run. However, he chose to be faithful to Amir, who honestly wasn't the best friend and didn't deserve such kindness and loyalty. Even when Assef, Mali, and Kamal told Hassan about how badly Amir really treated him, Hassan still remained devoted and dedicated to Amir. In this situation, Hassan proves once again that he is a great friend to Amir and would do anything for Amir to be happy. Even if he had to suffer, he would do it all "a thousand times over" for Amir.
Blog #1 Literary Term: Conflict
"I had one last chance to make a decision. One final opportunity to decide who I was going to be. I could step into that alley, stand up for Hassan--the way he'd stood up for me all those times in the past--and accept what would happen to me. Or I could run. In the end, I ran." -Page 77
CONFLICT: the struggle between opposing forces or characters in a story; can be external or internal
Khaled Hosseini's "The Kite Runner" incorporates many conflicts within the story, both external and internal. One external conflict that everyone deals with at one point in the story is war. Afghanistan is being taken over by the Russians during Amir's childhood, which is a serious conflict that has affected the everyday life of the Afghan people. Another external conflict occurs between the two groups of young boys in the book. Whenever they run into each other, it is always Hassan and Amir versus Assef, Kamal, and Wali. Assef, Kamal, and Wali end up brutally abusing and raping Hassan, which creates another huge conflict in the friendship between Amir and Hassan. After Amir realizes that he was a coward and just stepped aside and let this terrible thing happen to Hassan, he begins to go through an internal conflict. He feels guilty for leaving his best friend, who has been like a brother to him for his entire life, to be tortured by the three bullies. He is ashamed of his selfishness, because he was only thinking about the kite that he wanted instead of thinking about the safety and feelings of Hassan. This conflict is always on Amir's mind, even after Hassan and his father are no longer his servants. There are many conflicts in "The Kite Runner" so far, and they all can be connected to each other in some way.
CONFLICT: the struggle between opposing forces or characters in a story; can be external or internal
Khaled Hosseini's "The Kite Runner" incorporates many conflicts within the story, both external and internal. One external conflict that everyone deals with at one point in the story is war. Afghanistan is being taken over by the Russians during Amir's childhood, which is a serious conflict that has affected the everyday life of the Afghan people. Another external conflict occurs between the two groups of young boys in the book. Whenever they run into each other, it is always Hassan and Amir versus Assef, Kamal, and Wali. Assef, Kamal, and Wali end up brutally abusing and raping Hassan, which creates another huge conflict in the friendship between Amir and Hassan. After Amir realizes that he was a coward and just stepped aside and let this terrible thing happen to Hassan, he begins to go through an internal conflict. He feels guilty for leaving his best friend, who has been like a brother to him for his entire life, to be tortured by the three bullies. He is ashamed of his selfishness, because he was only thinking about the kite that he wanted instead of thinking about the safety and feelings of Hassan. This conflict is always on Amir's mind, even after Hassan and his father are no longer his servants. There are many conflicts in "The Kite Runner" so far, and they all can be connected to each other in some way.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Death of a Salesman: Linda
Throughout the entire play, I constantly felt bad for Linda. I felt like Willy is always snapping at her and complaining to her whenever he came home to her. Linda just sits there and takes everything that Willy dishes out at her, even when she is the one who is right most of the time. I felt even worse for Linda when I figured out that Willy cheated on her. She was never anything but a good wife to Willy, but Willy was just selfish and expected Biff to be okay with his affair when Biff found out about it in Boston. Linda is at home trying to fix her stockings, while Willy is buying another woman multiple pairs of brand new stockings. In addition, Linda is one of the most levelheaded and realistic characters in the play. She understands what is happening to Willy, and she does everything that she can to keep him safe and allow him to live his life at the same time. I think Linda was also the first one to realize that Willy's condition wasn't getting any better and that there was nothing that she could do about it. Yet she still remained emotionally stable for her family when both of her sons couldn't handle it anymore and fell apart.
page 1119 #1
There are both realistic and nonrealistic conventions in the play. Some of the realistic parts of the play revolved around the family life of the Loman household. One realistic quality of the family was their desire to reach the American Dream, which was also a main theme in the play. Like many families in the time period of the play, longing for a comfortable and successful life. Many families, including the Loman family, worked for the promise and possibilty of prosperity and stability. Having this universal goal makes the Loman family lifestyle seem fairly realistic and relatable to other families outside of the play. Although this is true, the Loman family goes through a few experiences that make them seem nonrealistic characters. For example, when Happy, Biff, and Linda discover the hose that Willy could be planning to use to commit suicide, they don't take any type of action. They do nothing to help Willy, even though it is very clear and obvious that he isn't in the right frame of mind. Also, the fact that Willy and Linda treat Biff and Happy like they are children makes the family seem unrealistic and in a fantasy world. The play may contain some realistic qualities, but I think that the nonrealism overweighs the realism in the play.
page 1119 #5 Death of a Salesman
There are multiple themes that are expressed in "Death of a Salesman". The most important themes that stood out to me when I read the play were the typical desire to reach the American Dream, abandonment, and disappointment. These three themes connect "Death of a Salesman to "The Glass Menagerie", which both share many similarities relating to characters and plot. Like the Wingfield family in "The Glass Menagerie", the Loman family in "Death of a Salesman" is striving toward the American Dream. Willy is all about being a well-liked and successful bussinesman, and he tries to instill this goal into the lives of his sons. Willy and his wife both want their family to be able to live comfortably and happily in their home. They desire financial security and happiness, which are popular characteristics of the American Dream. The next theme of abandonment can be applied to multiple characters in the story. Like Amanda and Laura feeling neglected by the father and Tom, Willy felt abandoned when his father left when he was young. Willy's sons also experience this same feeling when Willy is constantly traveling and working in order to become his idea of a perfect salesman. Finally, the theme of disappointment can be found throughout both plays. In "Death of a Salesman", Willy is disappointed in Biff for failing math and leaving to go out west and work. Biff and Happy are disappointed that their father is not doing well with business. They are also upset that he is having mental lapses and slowly losing his mind. Finally, the boys and Linda experience disappointment when they realize that they can no longer save Willy from himself in the end.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
The Glass Menagerie: Amanda
My opinion of the character Amanda changed throughout the play a few times. In the beginning of the play, I felt bad for Amanda because of her current situation. She was left by her husband as a single mother trying to take care of her two children. She was doing the best she could, and she always had the best interests of her children at heart. However, there were points where Amanda just seeemed annoying, controlling, selfish, and overwhelming. There were many times in the play where she is way too overprotective of Tom and Laura. For example, she criticizes the way Tom eats dinner one night. He basically says that he can't enjoy the food because his mother is watching him like a hawk while he eats. Amanda also angers Tom when he is drinking his coffee black. She tells him that it isn't healthy and that it can lead to cancer. It is during times like these where Amanda's parenting is too much to handle. Even though she is too protective of her kids, I started to feel sympathy for Amanda again at the end of the play. She has been abandoned twice by her husband and her only son. She has no one to take care of her or Laura, so she has to figure out how to get by once again.
The Glass Menagerie #7
The question of time in this play is a very difficult one to answer. Time is definitely distorted in this play from the beginning Tom is both a character and the narrator. Because the details, descriptions, and action comes from Tom's memory and mind, they may be bias or blurred. In Tom's memory, time seems to be missing or almost unimportant as he reflects on the past. His train of thought also jumps during the play, which means that events might not be in order. The setting and amount of time that is covered in the action is also difficult to understand. Tom makes various references to points in history that allow readers to figure out what the time period was. However, these allusions and references are also mixed up with no chronological organization. But with the information presented in the play, I think that the action in the play took place over a few months. One of the few clues that makes me think that this is correct is when Amanda tells Tom that she reminded him to find a gentleman caller for Laura multiple times. Other than that, not many context clues are given to hint at time in the play.
The Glass Menagerie #5
There are many themes conveyed in Tennessee William's "The Glass Menagerie". However, the most important themes that stood out to me the most were realism versus nonrealism, the idea of escaping, and abandonment. These themes add to the overall meaning of the play because they create drama. The theme of reality comes into play with Tom, who is both the narrator and a character in the play. Because the play is action taken from Tom's memory, the audience cannot believe absolutely everything that Tom says. His opinions and feelings could lead to bias details and descriptions that stray away from what actually occured. The theme of escaping occurs multiple times in the play. This theme is connected to both the father and Tom. The father makes his successful escape before the play even begins. Following in the footsteps of his father, Tom plans his escape throughout the play. He feels like his current living situation with his mother Amanda and his sister Laura is like a prison. The theme of escaping from problems and reality also connects to the final theme of abandonment. The whole family has already experienced the feeling of abandonment when their father/husband left to pursue his own ambitions. When Tom leaves like his father did, Laura and Amanda will have to experience this sad and hopeless feeling yet again. This brings Laura and Amanda right back to square one.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Othello: Question #7
I would say that the action of this play occurs within a two or three day period. The action goes from the secret marriage of Othello and Desdemona, to the trip on the ship to Cyprus, to the fight between Cassio and Roderigo, to the handkerchief being planted by Iago, to the revenge planned by Othello, and finally to the death and destruction that occurs in Act V of the play.
I think that the action of the play is mostly dramatized on stage. The only part of the play that we don't see are the boat trips or the Turkish ships at battle ("The Turkish preparation makes for Rhodes,So was I bid report here to the state by Signior Angelo" I.iii.17-19).
We don't see the action of the storm. The storm is only described to the audience. Other than those few exception, the action occurs on stage. For me, the events that are reported are the small events that don't really have a huge or substaintial impact on the plot or the main point of the story. If every little detail was shown with action, the play would be way too long. Cutting out that action allows the audience to stay focused on the plot and the significant characters. The play feels tight, because each action that is shown on stage has a role. All of the actions lead to the dramatic finish of uncovering Iago's evil plan to take down Othello.
I think that the action of the play is mostly dramatized on stage. The only part of the play that we don't see are the boat trips or the Turkish ships at battle ("The Turkish preparation makes for Rhodes,So was I bid report here to the state by Signior Angelo" I.iii.17-19).
We don't see the action of the storm. The storm is only described to the audience. Other than those few exception, the action occurs on stage. For me, the events that are reported are the small events that don't really have a huge or substaintial impact on the plot or the main point of the story. If every little detail was shown with action, the play would be way too long. Cutting out that action allows the audience to stay focused on the plot and the significant characters. The play feels tight, because each action that is shown on stage has a role. All of the actions lead to the dramatic finish of uncovering Iago's evil plan to take down Othello.
Othello: Question #4
Dramatic suspense is created in this play with all of the soliloquies and asides from various important characters. Many of these important speeches come from Iago, Emilia, and Othello. Iago's speeches while he is alone and speaking to the audience clue us in on his plans and create dramatic situations. These situations in which the audience knows more than the characters in the play cause the audience to feel suspense and question what will ultimately occur. Emilia's asides and important, because she ends up being a dynamic character in the end. She follows her husband's orders and wishes in the beginning, but she stands up for herself and for Desdemona in the end. She defies her husband, and she lays down her life for her friend. Othello's asides are extremely important to the plot of the play because they show the audience his thoughts and opinions. They show that he believes Iago's lies and plans revenge on Desdemona and Cassio. The plans of revenge create suspense because the audience is not sure about how things will work out. Asides and soliloques give the audience all of the information in a play, while the other characters have to put the pieces together themselves. From our position, things may seem extremely obvious. However, I could understand how some characters would be fooled and not follow what was going on until the very end.
Iago's aside example: V.i.11-22
"I’ve rubbed this young pimple until he’s ready to pop, and now he’s angry. Whether he kills Cassio, or Cassio kills him, or they kill each other, it all works in my favor. If Roderigo survives, though, he’ll ask me for all the gold and jewelry that I stole from him and said I gave to Desdemona. I can’t let that happen. If Cassio survives,he’s so handsome and well-spoken that he makes me look ugly. And besides, the Moor might tell him about my lies about him.—That would be very dangerous for me. No, he’s got to die. Let it be so. I hear him coming."
Iago's aside example: V.i.11-22
"I’ve rubbed this young pimple until he’s ready to pop, and now he’s angry. Whether he kills Cassio, or Cassio kills him, or they kill each other, it all works in my favor. If Roderigo survives, though, he’ll ask me for all the gold and jewelry that I stole from him and said I gave to Desdemona. I can’t let that happen. If Cassio survives,he’s so handsome and well-spoken that he makes me look ugly. And besides, the Moor might tell him about my lies about him.—That would be very dangerous for me. No, he’s got to die. Let it be so. I hear him coming."
Othello: Tragedy
The fact that Othello is a tragedy comes into play during the fifth and final act of the play. Iago convinces Roderigo to stab Cassio and kill him in order to get to Desdemona, but Iago is actually the one who wounds Cassio from behind. Iago then kills Roderigo after Cassio wounds him. Othello, out of jealousy and anger, kills Desdemona by suffocating her as she lays in their bed. When Iago's plan finally starts to go off track, he panics as his wife basically rats him out to everyone. He ends up stabbing his own wife Emilia because she reveals his intentions to Othello, Cassio, Lodovico, and Montano. She dies with honor, because she stood by her faithful friend ("Moor, she was chaste, she loved thee, cruel Moor. VI.ii.263). Othello decides in the end to stab himself because he cannot take the pain and guilt of everything that has occurred. He dies next to his good and faithful wife Desdemona. This play proves to be another classic tragedy with multiple expected deaths, but they just happen in a short time period as things are all wrapping up. I expected Desdemona and Othello to die, but I did not predict Emilia dying in the end. So even though I knew that some deaths were going to come up, I didn't know who or how.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Othello: The Character of Iago
I knew Iago was the antagonist of the story, so I expected him to clash with Othello and possibly with some of the other characters. However, I never expected Iago to get away with so much. He is constantly lying to various characters and manipulating and turning characters against each other. I thought that some of the characters, especially Othello, would have realized what was going on by now. If Othello gave a promotion to Cassio that Iago wanted, then why would Othello trust Iago the way that he does?
There is so much irony incorporated in Iago's scheming and plotting to take down Othello. Almost every character in the play has said something about Iago being so kind, so nice, and so honest. For example, Cassio says "good night, honest Iago" after Iago has gotten him into so much trouble with Othello (II.iii.300). How could all of these characters have absolutely no idea what is going on around them? Iago's jealousy is what prompts him to do all of these horrible things, yet he warns Othello about the power and destruction of jealousy of other men with Desdemona. "Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy. It is the green-eyed monster..." I would never be able to be so hypocritical without feeling guilt or anxiety.
There is so much irony incorporated in Iago's scheming and plotting to take down Othello. Almost every character in the play has said something about Iago being so kind, so nice, and so honest. For example, Cassio says "good night, honest Iago" after Iago has gotten him into so much trouble with Othello (II.iii.300). How could all of these characters have absolutely no idea what is going on around them? Iago's jealousy is what prompts him to do all of these horrible things, yet he warns Othello about the power and destruction of jealousy of other men with Desdemona. "Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy. It is the green-eyed monster..." I would never be able to be so hypocritical without feeling guilt or anxiety.
Othello Page 1119 #5
There are multiple themes in the play Othello that we discussed as a class before we started reading. One theme is the difference between appearance and reality. Some things may be different in reality than they appear to be. This can be applied to the character of Iago, who is thought to be honest. However, he is trecherous, deceiving, and manipulative. No one suspected such bad things coming from a respectable person like Iago. Another theme is jealousy is a very powerful emotion that can potentially create destructive effects. One example of this theme in the play once again can be applied to Iago. Iago is so jealous of Cassio's position that Iago thought he deserved, so he attempts to break up marriages and friendships, cause fights, and create havoc. Iago does all of this out of jealousy for his own selfish ambitions. I think that these themes prepare the reader for the ups and downs of the play. For me, the themes have a positive effect on the dramatic experience of the play. They create suspense and curiosity. They keep me guessing what will happen next. Lastly, the themes keep me focused on the main ideas and points of the play.
"Oh, beware, my lord of jealousy. It is the green-eyed monster which doth moch the meat it feeds on." (III.iii.171-173)
"Oh, beware, my lord of jealousy. It is the green-eyed monster which doth moch the meat it feeds on." (III.iii.171-173)
Othello Page 1119 #3
In the play Othello by William Shakespeare, Othello is the protagonist. He is a Moor and a general in the Venetian army. The antagonist of the play is Iago, who is Othello's ensign. He is jealous of Othello, because he believes that he deserves the position that Othello has. He is upset by the way people are appointed and promoted for the wrong reasons. Iago thinks that seniority should be what determines promotions, not favoritism. Iago states that he hates the Moor as he plans to ruin Othello and his reputation and rank, so Othello and Iago could also be considered foil characters to each other. Othello is honest, kind, and works for the good of the people, while Iago is a manipulator and a selfish man. I would also consider Iago and Cassio foil characters. Iago is without a promotion even though he has fought on the front-line, while Cassio got promoted by Othello with no real experience as a soldier. There are multiple sets of foil characters in the play so far.
Cassio is not of the main characters of the play, but he definitely plays a key role in moving the plot of the play along. His fight with Roderigo and Montano leads to Othello being upset and taking away his promotion. Cassio's actions in the play are pivotal, because Iago's plan relies on Cassio to make certain decisions. "If i can fasten but one cup upon him, with that which he hath drunk tonight already,..." (II.iii.39-40)
Cassio is not of the main characters of the play, but he definitely plays a key role in moving the plot of the play along. His fight with Roderigo and Montano leads to Othello being upset and taking away his promotion. Cassio's actions in the play are pivotal, because Iago's plan relies on Cassio to make certain decisions. "If i can fasten but one cup upon him, with that which he hath drunk tonight already,..." (II.iii.39-40)
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