the following is a writing assignment from october Importance of Symbolism in “Araby” In the story “Araby,” James Joyce uses symbolism to help the reader understand the whole concept. In the second paragraph, Joyce speaks of a “central apple tree.” At first one may simply scan right over it thinking it is just an extra detail. But once you think more about the story and the central idea of a loss of innocence it starts to come into play. The central apple tree that Joyce talks symbolizes the tree of the forbidden fruit in the Bible. This story is about the loss of innocence of man and woman and the influence of sin on our lives. Describing the apple tree before the action of the story starts gives a hint to what the story is about yet, doesn’t make it predictable. In the story, this boy is going to a bazaar called “Araby.” He imagines this place to be extravagant and exciting yet when he gets there he is very disappointed. This symbolizes how at the beginning of his journey he is young and still believes in fairytale places. By him being disappointed it symbolizes that he now realizes that not everything is as amazing and happy as it may seem. These symbols help to tie in the theme of loss of innocence. Without the symbols the story would only be a about a boy going to a run-down mall and then realizing that a girl wont like his gift. However, with symbolism, the story relates to the reader because we can all remember when we realized that the world isn’t a fairytale. below is a research paper written in december
Triangle: Pyramids The triangle is the strongest form of architecture in the world. The Romans, Greeks, Mayans, Free Masons, and the Chinese embraced the triangle due to its equal and perfect sides. However, the group most famous for their triangular architecture is the Egyptians. They built colossal structures with triangular sides to protect the bodies and souls of those who have died. These immense structures have become known as The Pyramids. There have been 138 pyramids discovered in Egypt (Singha). These monuments were more than just triangular buildings to the Egyptians; they were buildings that assisted the kings’ transition into the New World amongst the Gods. The pyramids were great monuments designed to protect the king’s body, goods for the Next World, and his soul (Millard 7). These pyramids had to be aligned with the North Star, Polaris, with the four sides facing the four compass directions exactly (14-15). These pyramids were mostly placed in the Western areas of Egypt because the god of the dead, Osiris, reigned in the west (15). The pyramid shape served as a ramp to the heavens (27). The Kings believed that once they died their souls would join the Imperishable Ones (18). These were the Northern Stars that never set below the horizon. The Kings also believed that in order to properly enjoy the New World, their bodies had to be preserved (30). This is why they were mummified. The Great Pyramids were built from huge deposits of limestone. During the annual floods of Egypt, these deposits could be transported by ships directly to the base of the pyramid (12). The pyramids were built in layers. The people would build ramps of bricks and rubble and slide the stones up them (17). The Egyptians filled the insides of the pyramids with sand as they built them so they could slide the stones across to the other side. Once the pyramid was built they would remove the sand, except for a small amount which they would use as platforms when carving and painting the walls and columns. They would inscribe the walls of the pyramid with prayers and rituals to keep the soul protected in the New World (24).
The Egyptians believed their souls were made of three parts. The first part, the Ka, remained in the body and the tomb. This was the life force and it drew strength from the food and offerings brought to the tombs. The next part, the Ba, was the personality. This was the spirit that faced judgment in the underworld. It was able to go anywhere it wanted. The last part was the Akh. This was the glorified spirit that moved with the Gods and the Imperishable Stars (34). These parts of the soul were the reason why the pyramids were built: they protected the Ka and helped the Akh reach the Gods. The first pyramid of Egypt was the Step Pyramid of Djoser, built by Pharaoh Djoser. It has six stepped layers and is 204 feet tall (National Geographic). These steps symbolize a stairway into the stars (Millard 18). The builders used stone for the mastaba (tomb) rather than the usual mud-bricks. This made it more durable than the other tombs of that time. The burial chamber for the pharaoh was placed underground along with a maze of tunnels. It is thought that these tunnels were to keep the pyramid from getting robbed. However the only thing remaining of Djoser today is his mummified foot (National Geographic). The Maidum Pyramid built by Pharaoh Snefru has eight steps and is 306 feet high (National Geographic). This was the first of three pyramids built by Snefru. Sadly, due to storms and shifting sands, only the top three steps are visible today (National Geographic). This pyramid was the first to have an above ground burial room; possibly to bring the king closer to the sun god, Ra. The second pyramid built by Snefru is known as the Bent Pyramid. This was built at Dashur and stands 344 feet high. It was the first attempt at a smooth sided pyramid. This pyramid is also unique because it had two burial chambers. It was given its name because half way through the architects changed the angle; possibly due to lack of stability. Because of its awkward shape, Snefru demanded for a third pyramid to be built (National Geographic). Snefru’s third and final pyramid is known as the Red Pyramid. It is also at Dashur and it stands 341 feet tall (National Geographic). The Red Pyramid is said to the first “true” pyramid because of its smooth sides (Ancient Egyptian Pyramids). It was, at first, built like a step pyramid but they added angled casing stones to create the smooth sides. These straight sides symbolize sunbeams the King can walk up to join Ra (Millard 20). This pyramid was probably where Snefru was buried. The next pyramid is the world’s largest pyramid, standing 481 feet tall: The Great Pyramid at Giza (Ancient Egyptian Pyramids). Built by Pharaoh Khufu, this pyramid was built with about 2.3 million stone rocks. This pyramid has three burial chambers, the King’s body being in the third and placed in the exact middle of the pyramid (National Geographic). This pyramid is the only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world that still stands today (Singha). The second largest pyramid stands 471 feet tall and was built by Khufu’s son, Khafre. It is known as the Home of the Sphinx (National Geographic). The Sphinx is a half human, half lion creature that serves to be the guardian of Pharaoh Khafre (Millard 27). This pyramid was built with a special area for the canopic chests. These chests held the jars that carried the lungs, liver, stomach, and intestines of the deceased (National Geographic).
The last of the great pyramids was built by Pharaoh Menkaure. This pyramid was considerably smaller than the two previous pyramids: it stood 213 feet tall. Rather than being built with limestone, like the other Great Pyramids, Menkaure decided to create his pyramid out of granite. Granite is much heavier than limestone and therefore harder to work with, however; it is also more durable. Menkaure died during the building of his pyramid and work on it was ceased. Later his heir finished the pyramid with mud-brick (National Geographic). The final King before Egypt split into two was Pepi II. He became king when he was only six years old. His pyramid was only 172 feet tall. He probably reigned until he was ninety-four years old. His pyramid is estimated to have been finished when he was only thirty. His sarcophagus was made of black granite and there were stars painted on the ceiling above it (National Geographic). Although many of these pyramids were built from stones weighing up to 15 tons each, every single one of them have been broken into and robbed (Millard 32). Some have been robbed multiple times. Many of the casing stones (angled stones that make the sides smooth) have been stolen to build other things. The Great Pyramid at Giza is the only pyramid with some left at the top (23). These pyramids served as monuments to honor and protect the souls and bodies of the Ancient Egyptian rulers for many years. The Egyptians proved that triangular architecture is durable and can stand through the literal sands of time. The tombs were built so that they could be remembered and honored for years to come. They believed that if they were remembered then they were, in a way, still living. Through these pyramids the souls and culture of the Egyptians live on. the following is a novel assignment from januaryConfidante In the novel Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen, Jane Bennet serves as a confidante to Elizabeth Bennet. Jane is Elizabeth’s older sister and therefore the first person Elizabeth goes to for advice. Jane is an exceedingly modest and passive woman. She does not like to speak up for herself, nor the things she believes in. She always does what other people tell her to whether she likes it or not, she never steps out of line. This is because, at that time, these qualities were encouraged for women. Jane is the only woman in the novel who acts in this manner. She behaves very well, especially when compared to others, and has excellent manners. Jane is also a static character. Meaning she never changes in the novel; she never seems to find her voice. She seems to be there simply to give Elizabeth someone to talk to. Another of Jane’s good qualities is her self-control. When Mr. Bingley moves back to London without saying a word to her, Jane does not do anything to show she cares. Unlike Lydia who, when the soldiers are stationed in another town, throws a fit until she is allowed to go with them. Of course, Jane is sad, but she retains her composure throughout the story. This part of Jane is what Mr. Bingley is most attracted to, yet it is what causes Mr. Darcy to tear them apart. Because Jane does not outwardly show her feelings, Mr. Darcy believes she does not love Mr. Bingley and then informs him of this belief. These qualities give Elizabeth someone to look up to and admire. Early in the novel, we learn that Jane is not one to think badly of anyone. As said by Elizabeth to Jane, “You never see a fault in anybody. All the world are good and agreeable in your eyes. I never heard you speak ill of a human being in my life…to take the good of everybody’s character and make it still better, and say nothing of the bad-belongs to you alone” (Austen 11). She is saying that Jane is not influenced by the first impressions of others because she believes people to be generally good. Jane has no prejudices against anybody, not even Mr. Darcy. When everyone in town had something bad to say about Mr. Darcy, Jane stuck to the positive. Elizabeth eventually learned to put aside her prejudices, like her sister, and because of this, she saw the real Mr. Darcy. Throughout the novel Jane and Elizabeth are talking to each other about their problems, whether in person or by letter. The letters are a way for Elizabeth to stay connected to her sister even when they are far apart. Jane informs Elizabeth of everything that happens when Elizabeth is away with Mr. and Mrs. Collins, and again when she is with Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. This creates a bond that Elizabeth does not have with anyone else in her family. No one, except Jane and her father, really seemed to care when Elizabeth was not at home. They were all too busy with their own lives. Over all Jane is just a good person. She always gives the benefit of the doubt and she wants everyone to be happy. After Jane accepted Bingley’s proposal, Jane says to Elizabeth, “If I could but see you as happy!” (Austen 300). This shows Jane’s care for her sister; even in the happiest moment of her life, she is still thinking about her sister’s well-being. Elizabeth soon realizes that Jane’s happiness is not a result of her good state of being, but rather her goodness. Jane is caring and the only truly unprejudiced character in the novel. Her unprejudiced ways cause her to think everyone is honest and lead her to desire to please everyone. This often causes her to put her own happiness aside for that of others. When this happens, Elizabeth feels she has to take care of Jane as if she herself was the bigger sister and protect her from the evils of the real world. Throughout the novel, Jane is considered to merely be Elizabeth’s confidante. Elizabeth is usually the one that makes sure Jane is okay and tries to protect her. However, as said by Henry James, “the author sometimes uses this character for other purposes as well.” Jane is not only the eldest daughter, that wants to please everyone, she is the one who indirectly brings Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy together. First, the main reason all the sisters were invited to a majority of the dances was because Mr. Bingley liked Jane. Even though, at these dances, Elizabeth disliked Mr. Darcy, this is where they first met. Secondly, Jane never said anything bad about Mr. Darcy. She always pointed out the good in him. By having one person like Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth felt okay with her feelings towards him. Lastly, once Jane was happy again, Elizabeth felt she could focus on her own happiness, let her guard down, and open up to Mr. Darcy. Jane taught Elizabeth it is okay to love and that first impressions are not always correct. That the only way to get to know someone is to get rid of both pride and prejudice.
Importance of Symbolism in “Araby”
In the story “Araby,” James Joyce uses symbolism to help the reader understand the whole concept. In the second paragraph, Joyce speaks of a “central apple tree.” At first one may simply scan right over it thinking it is just an extra detail. But once you think more about the story and the central idea of a loss of innocence it starts to come into play. The central apple tree that Joyce talks symbolizes the tree of the forbidden fruit in the Bible. This story is about the loss of innocence of man and woman and the influence of sin on our lives. Describing the apple tree before the action of the story starts gives a hint to what the story is about yet, doesn’t make it predictable.
In the story, this boy is going to a bazaar called “Araby.” He imagines this place to be extravagant and exciting yet when he gets there he is very disappointed. This symbolizes how at the beginning of his journey he is young and still believes in fairytale places. By him being disappointed it symbolizes that he now realizes that not everything is as amazing and happy as it may seem.
These symbols help to tie in the theme of loss of innocence. Without the symbols the story would only be a about a boy going to a run-down mall and then realizing that a girl wont like his gift. However, with symbolism, the story relates to the reader because we can all remember when we realized that the world isn’t a fairytale.
below is a research paper written in december
Triangle: Pyramids
The triangle is the strongest form of architecture in the world. The Romans, Greeks, Mayans, Free Masons, and the Chinese embraced the triangle due to its equal and perfect sides. However, the group most famous for their triangular architecture is the Egyptians. They built colossal structures with triangular sides to protect the bodies and souls of those who have died. These immense structures have become known as The Pyramids. There have been 138 pyramids discovered in Egypt (Singha). These monuments were more than just triangular buildings to the Egyptians; they were buildings that assisted the kings’ transition into the New World amongst the Gods.
The pyramids were great monuments designed to protect the king’s body, goods for the Next World, and his soul (Millard 7). These pyramids had to be aligned with the North Star, Polaris, with the four sides facing the four compass directions exactly (14-15). These pyramids were mostly placed in the Western areas of Egypt because the god of the dead, Osiris, reigned in the west (15). The pyramid shape served as a ramp to the heavens (27). The Kings believed that once they died their souls would join the Imperishable Ones (18). These were the Northern Stars that never set below the horizon. The Kings also believed that in order to properly enjoy the New World, their bodies had to be preserved (30). This is why they were mummified.
The Great Pyramids were built from huge deposits of limestone. During the annual floods of Egypt, these deposits could be transported by ships directly to the base of the pyramid (12). The pyramids were built in layers. The people would build ramps of bricks and rubble and slide the stones up them (17). The Egyptians filled the insides of the pyramids with sand as they built them so they could slide the stones across to the other side. Once the pyramid was built they would remove the sand, except for a small amount which they would use as platforms when carving and painting the walls and columns. They would inscribe the walls of the pyramid with prayers and rituals to keep the soul protected in the New World (24).
The Egyptians believed their souls were made of three parts. The first part, the Ka, remained in the body and the tomb. This was the life force and it drew strength from the food and offerings brought to the tombs. The next part, the Ba, was the personality. This was the spirit that faced judgment in the underworld. It was able to go anywhere it wanted. The last part was the Akh. This was the glorified spirit that moved with the Gods and the Imperishable Stars (34). These parts of the soul were the reason why the pyramids were built: they protected the Ka and helped the Akh reach the Gods.
The first pyramid of Egypt was the Step Pyramid of Djoser, built by Pharaoh Djoser. It has six stepped layers and is 204 feet tall (National Geographic). These steps symbolize a stairway into the stars (Millard 18). The builders used stone for the mastaba (tomb) rather than the usual mud-bricks. This made it more durable than the other tombs of that time. The burial chamber for the pharaoh was placed underground along with a maze of tunnels. It is thought that these tunnels were to keep the pyramid from getting robbed. However the only thing remaining of Djoser today is his mummified foot (National Geographic).
The Maidum Pyramid built by Pharaoh Snefru has eight steps and is 306 feet high (National Geographic). This was the first of three pyramids built by Snefru. Sadly, due to storms and shifting sands, only the top three steps are visible today (National Geographic). This pyramid was the first to have an above ground burial room; possibly to bring the king closer to the sun god, Ra.
The second pyramid built by Snefru is known as the Bent Pyramid. This was built at Dashur and stands 344 feet high. It was the first attempt at a smooth sided pyramid. This pyramid is also unique because it had two burial chambers. It was given its name because half way through the architects changed the angle; possibly due to lack of stability. Because of its awkward shape, Snefru demanded for a third pyramid to be built (National Geographic).
Snefru’s third and final pyramid is known as the Red Pyramid. It is also at Dashur and it stands 341 feet tall (National Geographic). The Red Pyramid is said to the first “true” pyramid because of its smooth sides (Ancient Egyptian Pyramids). It was, at first, built like a step pyramid but they added angled casing stones to create the smooth sides. These straight sides symbolize sunbeams the King can walk up to join Ra (Millard 20). This pyramid was probably where Snefru was buried.
The next pyramid is the world’s largest pyramid, standing 481 feet tall: The Great Pyramid at Giza (Ancient Egyptian Pyramids). Built by Pharaoh Khufu, this pyramid was built with about 2.3 million stone rocks. This pyramid has three burial chambers, the King’s body being in the third and placed in the exact middle of the pyramid (National Geographic). This pyramid is the only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world that still stands today (Singha).
The second largest pyramid stands 471 feet tall and was built by Khufu’s son, Khafre. It is known as the Home of the Sphinx (National Geographic). The Sphinx is a half human, half lion creature that serves to be the guardian of Pharaoh Khafre (Millard 27). This pyramid was built with a special area for the canopic chests. These chests held the jars that carried the lungs, liver, stomach, and intestines of the deceased (National Geographic).
The last of the great pyramids was built by Pharaoh Menkaure. This pyramid was considerably smaller than the two previous pyramids: it stood 213 feet tall. Rather than being built with limestone, like the other Great Pyramids, Menkaure decided to create his pyramid out of granite. Granite is much heavier than limestone and therefore harder to work with, however; it is also more durable. Menkaure died during the building of his pyramid and work on it was ceased. Later his heir finished the pyramid with mud-brick (National Geographic).
The final King before Egypt split into two was Pepi II. He became king when he was only six years old. His pyramid was only 172 feet tall. He probably reigned until he was ninety-four years old. His pyramid is estimated to have been finished when he was only thirty. His sarcophagus was made of black granite and there were stars painted on the ceiling above it (National Geographic).
Although many of these pyramids were built from stones weighing up to 15 tons each, every single one of them have been broken into and robbed (Millard 32). Some have been robbed multiple times. Many of the casing stones (angled stones that make the sides smooth) have been stolen to build other things. The Great Pyramid at Giza is the only pyramid with some left at the top (23).
These pyramids served as monuments to honor and protect the souls and bodies of the Ancient Egyptian rulers for many years. The Egyptians proved that triangular architecture is durable and can stand through the literal sands of time. The tombs were built so that they could be remembered and honored for years to come. They believed that if they were remembered then they were, in a way, still living. Through these pyramids the souls and culture of the Egyptians live on.
the following is a novel assignment from januaryConfidante
In the novel Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen, Jane Bennet serves as a confidante to Elizabeth Bennet. Jane is Elizabeth’s older sister and therefore the first person Elizabeth goes to for advice.
Jane is an exceedingly modest and passive woman. She does not like to speak up for herself, nor the things she believes in. She always does what other people tell her to whether she likes it or not, she never steps out of line. This is because, at that time, these qualities were encouraged for women. Jane is the only woman in the novel who acts in this manner. She behaves very well, especially when compared to others, and has excellent manners. Jane is also a static character. Meaning she never changes in the novel; she never seems to find her voice. She seems to be there simply to give Elizabeth someone to talk to.
Another of Jane’s good qualities is her self-control. When Mr. Bingley moves back to London without saying a word to her, Jane does not do anything to show she cares. Unlike Lydia who, when the soldiers are stationed in another town, throws a fit until she is allowed to go with them. Of course, Jane is sad, but she retains her composure throughout the story. This part of Jane is what Mr. Bingley is most attracted to, yet it is what causes Mr. Darcy to tear them apart. Because Jane does not outwardly show her feelings, Mr. Darcy believes she does not love Mr. Bingley and then informs him of this belief.
These qualities give Elizabeth someone to look up to and admire. Early in the novel, we learn that Jane is not one to think badly of anyone. As said by Elizabeth to Jane, “You never see a fault in anybody. All the world are good and agreeable in your eyes. I never heard you speak ill of a human being in my life…to take the good of everybody’s character and make it still better, and say nothing of the bad-belongs to you alone” (Austen 11). She is saying that Jane is not influenced by the first impressions of others because she believes people to be generally good. Jane has no prejudices against anybody, not even Mr. Darcy. When everyone in town had something bad to say about Mr. Darcy, Jane stuck to the positive. Elizabeth eventually learned to put aside her prejudices, like her sister, and because of this, she saw the real Mr. Darcy.
Throughout the novel Jane and Elizabeth are talking to each other about their problems, whether in person or by letter. The letters are a way for Elizabeth to stay connected to her sister even when they are far apart. Jane informs Elizabeth of everything that happens when Elizabeth is away with Mr. and Mrs. Collins, and again when she is with Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. This creates a bond that Elizabeth does not have with anyone else in her family. No one, except Jane and her father, really seemed to care when Elizabeth was not at home. They were all too busy with their own lives.
Over all Jane is just a good person. She always gives the benefit of the doubt and she wants everyone to be happy. After Jane accepted Bingley’s proposal, Jane says to Elizabeth, “If I could but see you as happy!” (Austen 300). This shows Jane’s care for her sister; even in the happiest moment of her life, she is still thinking about her sister’s well-being. Elizabeth soon realizes that Jane’s happiness is not a result of her good state of being, but rather her goodness. Jane is caring and the only truly unprejudiced character in the novel. Her unprejudiced ways cause her to think everyone is honest and lead her to desire to please everyone. This often causes her to put her own happiness aside for that of others. When this happens, Elizabeth feels she has to take care of Jane as if she herself was the bigger sister and protect her from the evils of the real world.
Throughout the novel, Jane is considered to merely be Elizabeth’s confidante. Elizabeth is usually the one that makes sure Jane is okay and tries to protect her. However, as said by Henry James, “the author sometimes uses this character for other purposes as well.” Jane is not only the eldest daughter, that wants to please everyone, she is the one who indirectly brings Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy together. First, the main reason all the sisters were invited to a majority of the dances was because Mr. Bingley liked Jane. Even though, at these dances, Elizabeth disliked Mr. Darcy, this is where they first met. Secondly, Jane never said anything bad about Mr. Darcy. She always pointed out the good in him. By having one person like Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth felt okay with her feelings towards him. Lastly, once Jane was happy again, Elizabeth felt she could focus on her own happiness, let her guard down, and open up to Mr. Darcy. Jane taught Elizabeth it is okay to love and that first impressions are not always correct. That the only way to get to know someone is to get rid of both pride and prejudice.