Do you think your society would be possible in today's world?

In today’s society people are very judgmental of others and only seem to care about themselves. There is no ability to be an individual for fear of what others may think.  Also, there is a great dependence upon technology for everything we do.  If one were to create a new society where everything was perfect and everyone could be themselves, we would have a better environment.  FEDGO is an example of such a perfect world.  Within FEDGO, there is a place for everyone.  Each island is different in its own way.  From having a different season on each island to coming together on the main isle as one; everything is perfect.  No pollution or dangerous chemicals, no bullying and littering are some examples of the laws of this society.  People must participate in some kind of community service and the green movement.  Also, the jobs here are what people want to do and aren’t forced.  In today’s society this would be incredible to have, but in reality it is impossible to create.  Although some people think that a transcendentalist society would work easily in today’s world, education, technology, and equality are reasons why a transcendentalist society could never be possible today.

With regards to FEDGO it is certainly a place that could exist in today’s world.  For example, all people believe in a religion of their choice.  Whether it is Catholic, Protestant, Lutheran, etc., people continue to practice their own beliefs.  There are many traditions that each religion may have such as Christmas.  Some faiths celebrate Christmas while others celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas on a different day of the year.  Even though people may be judged on convictions they practice, it is their belief and they aren’t going to change because someone else doesn’t like it.   Not only does religion help FEDGO to possibly exist today, but all the organic materials and foods that are supplied to the island are akin to today’s world.  No dangerous chemicals are put in the food and it is all organic which makes the lifestyle healthier.  Many people today focus on eating nutritiously and purchasing foods that are made without chemicals.  This is part of a fitter lifestyle and avoiding future side effects or diseases caused by hormones or chemicals. 

In reality, a place like FEDGO would not flourish in today’s society.  FEDGO prides itself on education and thus, preparation for careers later in life. There is no better place and time to focus upon the process of education.  In today’s world if this generation was raised to be capable individuals then they would be able to represent America well.  A real education would be composed of teaching lessons as well as understanding the small details. However, we do not concentrate upon the minute details. Rather, teachers hurry to get through lessons without understanding the true meaning of them. Also, the homework involves the memorization of written facts and regurgitation of the latter. No one cares to read and understand the big picture. Also, all students would learn about the entire world and come to realize their own purpose and role in life within FEDGO. Once our children enter into society today they are immediately entrenched in letting society rule them. Kids have to fit the mold and are not allowed to realize their own identity. They would be ostracized if they didn’t wear the same clothes or act like their peers.  There has to be adherence to the rules imposed by society in which all must obey.   FEDGO would not in actuality be practical in today’s world.

Similarly, FEDGO would be considered obsolete or outdated in our present world. People would not be able to function as they do today with all the amenities and technological advances.  At present, we are such a tech savvy group of individuals that we could not flourish without these items. For example, it would be hard to imagine a world without iPhones, iPods, I Touches, televisions, microwaves and the list goes on.  Being one with nature and using it for our entertainment would seem hardly likely to appease the generations who have been so accustom to utilizing these devices. Also, being a green world by avoiding dangerous chemicals and having control of the wind, water, and solar system is nice in theory, but hard to do on a daily basis for millions of people.  Old habits are hard to break and many people would protest the absence of technology and becoming one with nature.  This would be a step backwards for mankind.

Furthermore, the majority of the world is a capitalistic society and in want of the almighty dollar, euro, yen or whatever the currency may be.  A community such as FEDGO would not favor monetary reward. People, men, women and all races would need to be equal. There would be no discrimination between rich, poor, black, white; those with illness and those that are healthy. This is so in contrast to what our society is today. There still exists racial discrimination with gangs fighting each other, as well as national unrest such as terrorism and countries at war. There certainly is no equality across all people. Otherwise, today’s world would be a much happier, safer, and peaceful place where all can coexist together with shared resources especially economic.  We would have to do away with our government, religious beliefs, laws and the whole thought process behind the American society.  We would have to establish acceptance of a whole new way of life which would be very unsettling for many.

In final consideration, FEDGO would not be able to flourish in today’s society.   Educational, technology and equality factors would be leading causes for its grounds for failure. Although nice in concept, FEDGO is not practical. It would translate into a backward step for mankind. This transcendentalist society would be reinventing a part of history that would be detrimental to today’s world.

The Dead Poets Society Post

In the movie, The Dead Poets Society it invokes the principles of transcendentalism or nonconformity. The setting of the movie is at Welton, a very conservative, regimented and inflexible school. Mr. Keating arrives to teach his students “Carpe Diem” or how to seize each day and “suck the marrow out of life.” He has very nonconventional means in which he does the latter such as ripping out pages of text in books and standing on desks. He uses poetry to teach his students how to challenge the various issues surrounding them. He encourages brotherhood and civil disobedience. Mr. Keating is the epitome of self-reliance, non-conformity and revolt against the traditional institutions. However, Keating also warns or cautions his students that there is an appropriate time to rebel or to be daring. One needs to be wise and not stupid in the protest. Also, that change does not occur with one instance, but rather there must be forbearance. It is akin to a war with having to involve both offensive and defensive sides.

As a result of being over daring there are forces that occur which try to resist the change. If one is too forceful or doesn’t proceed cautiously and appropriately then there might be tragic consequences which could ensue. This is seen when Keating encourages Neil to act and informs him that he is acting by not confronting his father about his true feelings and desire to be an actor. When Neil lies to Keating and is unable to talk to his father, this leads to his committing suicide. Also, the character Charlie, or Nuwanda suffers consequences as a result of writing an article about admitting girls to Welton, as well as feigning a telephone call from God to Mr. Nolan. His last incident of the fight with Cameron ultimately gets him expelled when he stands up for what he believes in. By nonconforming as Mr. Keating exemplified he had to leave his teaching position at the school. However, there are probably more dangers or consequences that occur when one uses transcendentalism inappropriately or not cautiously. Although there were negative consequences seen, it also appears that Mr. Keating will still live on and perhaps result in some change for the boys in the future. He survived in their minds as ideas which can’t be expelled. This is seen as Todd has the nerve to stand on his desk and yell, “Captain, my captain.” This starts again a string of rebellious students doing the same as Mr. Nolan caves from the strength of the group. Thus, there are dangers that can result from nonconformity which are not all negative, but can sometimes result in positive change if undertaken appropriately, at the right time and with forbearance.

Transcendentalism Post

The transcendentalists Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau placed a higher belief in other forms of knowledge and valued nonconformity. They  emphasized the individual and his/her relationship with nature. This is also true of Gavin DeGraw who in his song, “I Don’t Want To Be” stresses the importance of nonconformity and being an individual.

Overall, his song encourages today’s youth not to feel pressured to have to conform to others thoughts and ideas, but rather, be their own person. For example, he states, “I don’t need to be anything other than a prison guard’s son/ I don’t need to be anything other than a specialist’s son” in which he tells the world that he doesn’t need to follow in his parents’ professions, but just know who his parents are.   Gavin also mentions in his hit “All I have to do is think of me and I have peace of mind.”  He gets peace through thinking and internal meditation.  Here, he tries to explain what it means to be an individual and how to act on moral and individual decisions.  Be who you are rather than follow your peers.  Embrace your own sense of identity. 

He goes on to say, “I don’t want to be anything other than me” which is another way he focuses upon individuality and what is best for him. He reveals that he has learned what it takes to be “me.” He will not do what others tell him to do or what others desire for him. It is his time to do what he wants. He expresses the desire to only be himself.

Also, he wants the world to know that they don’t have to go through an identity crisis and not be who they truly are supposed to be, “I’m surrounded by liars everywhere I turn/ I’m surrounded by identity crisis everywhere I turn/ Am I the only one who noticed?” DeGraw wants the world to be like him (non-conforming) and not confused with what beliefs society desires to impose upon them. He is a modern day transcendentalist.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gFCW3PHBws&ob=av2e

http://www.hitcrave.com/tag/gavin-degraw-candy-lyrics.html

Walden Post

What started out as a two- year experiment for Thoreau at Walden Pond turned out to be a life changing experience.  Two years for some people to live simplistically may seem like an eternity.  Often, they may not survive without technology and all the amenities, which they have been exposed to previously.  The majority of people would feel that society is the best place to live.  However, Thoreau wanted to see for himself.  He embarked upon a journey in which he gained much knowledge and insight into life.  Thus, Thoreau’s two years at Walden Pond were more than a wasted experiment in frugality, but rather, an enriching life experience.

Thoreau learned the importance of nature through his two years at solitude.  Nature is the harmony to the world and the meaning to life.  Life is in its truest form in nature.  Thoreau realized that nature is teeming with beauty and life from the many animals he watched in the woods.  Sitting outside, enjoying a nice day, listening to the sounds of the birds, and feeling the flow of the wind helped him learn more about nature and to become one with it.  As Thoreau watched the animals it made him think of human warfare and fighting.  As fall changed to winter, he listened to the fox, rabbit, and squirrel as they gathered food for the cold winter.  As seasons changed, he would rather be with this nature and animals than amongst the wealthy and rich.  Thoreau became one with nature and appreciated all it gave him.

 

http://www.venuemag.net/Blogs/Its-a-Good-Life/Web-2011/View/

Not only was nature and solitude a rewarding experience, but Thoreau had much time to think. “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts to life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived” (Thoreau 490).  This is another valuable lesson that Thoreau learned which is to deliberate, to ponder, to think for a very long time. He was able to discern what is truly important in life. He came to the conclusion that it really wasn’t material things that mattered, but more so how to live life to its fullest.  Sometimes it is important to slow down and just appreciate and smell the roses.  He discerned that people were always in a hurry, which was only wasting true life.

http://www.outdoorbirdfeeders.com/bluebird.html

Nature and living life to its fullest is what Thoreau experienced in the woods.  The benefits of nature were to help him realize what the meaning of life was.  Seasons changing, sounds of animals and birds, and the flow of the wind became relaxing to him.  Not being a part of the human world was what Thoreau wanted.  He became one with nature and cherished all it gave him.  Being in the woods made Thoreau ponder on the meaning of life and its importance.  He realized that material items were not necessary. Thoreau took life in slowly and not in a hurry.  Thoreau’s life was not wasted at Walden Pond.

"The Thinker"

http://ntype0.wordpress.com/page/6/

Student Declaration of Independence

We the students of Grosse Pointe South High School find it necessary to band together in order to create a common stronghold, that united shall allow for the dissolution of silly rules and regulations imposed upon us by King Provenzano and the Grosse Pointe School District. It is with all due respect that we bring forth our opinions. It is in doing so that we hope to engage in a quicker absolution of the past and current administrations’ mistakes. Only then can we look to our future within this institution and see that it is bright and beautiful.

Let it be known that we are entitled to certain rights as high school students. Namely, we have the Right to Sanity, Happiness, Physical Well-Being, Expression and Proper Accommodations.  We have been held prisoners in this school for too long. It is as if we are hardened criminals that must do homework or blog until our hands are calloused or fall off.  We are chained to our rooms and not allowed to wander the halls, nor leave a social event for fear we may commit some crime.  Our happiness and physical well-being have been ignored. These administrators should realize that we, as teenagers require more sleep, adequate nutrition and longer lunch hours.  Let’s not forget about our much-needed happiness in order not to commit suicide or deal with depression.  Also, we suffer from inadequate facilities with no air conditioning, ventilation, and no free parking lot that is sufficient enough to accommodate all students. It is our right and duty to provide for all students the necessary elements in order to succeed at this institution of higher education. We must rid this place of old ideals usurped with pain, agony, and suffering which they have inflicted. Hence, we must abolish this fiefdom. We hereby submit as proof of our allegations the following testimony that we do solemnly swear to be the whole truth

<!--[if !supportLists]-->       I.           I.  <!--[endif]-->More Holiday Breaks

When someone who does not know the school walks it, they see hard work, but with that hard work, sleep deprived students and teachers. Sleep can fix many of the things the teachers have issues with the students. If the school introduces more regular holiday breaks, instead of longer holiday breaks. This would give the student body more time to understand the difficult concepts of life, say school has all of Friday Saturday Sunday off. More time to do homework would permit more time to actually understand those lessons. More breaks would permit a healthier school in general.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->    II.           II.  <!--[endif]-->Harmless Pranks Should be Allowed

During spirit week all staff is on the hunt for pranks. Such things as, writing 'senior' on underclassmen's arms. This does not inhibit their class performance in any way. The students are still able to get their books, get to class, and be able to pay attention. The same with Glitter-Bombing; it affects no actual school notion. All that does is make the underclassmen shine a little more. Those are just simple pranks to make the day a little more light hearted; everyone needs a little laughter.

<!--[if !supportLists]--> III.            III. <!--[endif]-->Less Strict Tardy Policies

The planner states that after seven unexcused tardies you fail the class. Instead of the concrete rule the rule should be circumstantial. There are situations that one cannot help, they were bound to happen anyway, there was just bad timing. The rules also permit teachers marking you down because you are tardy. That is not fair; the grade in any class should be based on homework, participation, and book smarts. The proof is in the pudding.
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<!--[if !supportLists]--> IV.  <!--[endif]-->S   IV. School Dance Restrictions

Dances are meant to be fun. However, even the simple task of buying a ticket for a dance is complicated by forms and ticket numbers and showing your school I.D. Although they are school run, dances should not be treated like a normal day at school. Those attending should not have to abide by the same strict dress code and above all else should not be forced to stay once they arrive. If you want to leave a dance you should be able to do so at any point during the night.

<!--[if !supportLists]-->    V.           V.  <!--[endif]-->Admission Fees

When attending school sporting events such as football games, students should not have to pay to get in. More students would attend games if admission were free. School teams need encouragement and this would get them a lot more support from the student body. Money would still be made from the cost of tickets for people who are not students or faculty. No admission fee would increase school spirit make games more enjoyable.

<!--[if !supportLists]--> VI.            VI. Attendance

Signing out in the attendance office before leaving school serves no purpose. If a parent must already call the student out there is no reason for that student to also have to go to the attendance office to sign out. This is an unnecessary step that does nothing but complicate a process that should be very simple. An absence should not be marked unexcused if the student did not sign out. Signing out is easy to forget and makes it easy for students to be punished unjustly.   

<!--[if !supportLists]-->VII.            VII. Respect From Teachers

If students must respect their teachers then teachers must also respect their students. Teachers should not be allowed to abuse their authority by mistreating their students. If a student were to disrespect a teacher it would not go unnoticed. However, it is commonly overlooked when a teacher is rude to a student or class. If respect is demanded of us, it should also be demanded of faculty.   

<!--[if !supportLists]-->VIII.          VIII.   <!--[endif]-->Dress Code  

We believe that the dress code is too Puritan at our school. Females should not be forced to wear clothes of a certain length to school. This is a hassle for the parents because they now have to take the student shopping. All this excess shopping can cause money problems for the family. Students should be allowed to wear what they wear outside of school to school.
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->IX.   Start and Dismissal Times                                                                                                                                         The time that school starts at Grosse Pointe South High School is too early. Also, the time school ends is too late. Most students attend extracurricular activities after school and must spend the remainder of their day completing their homework. This results in a late bedtime for students. Since school starts so early, the kids come to school sleep-deprived and they are not ready to learn. 
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->    X.            X.  <!--[endif]-->Parking

Parking spaces at this school are very limited. With such a large student body, we are in need of many more parking spots than we currently have. There are only two free lots at the school which can be far from classes and lockers and they can fill up very easily. The only convenient lot is only available for seniors and costs money. This is extremely inconvenient and causes students to be late for their classes.

Our complaints are very simple and clear.  They are what we require and what needs to change.  We need to be able to dress how we want and be able to leave a school dance when we want.  If we are always told to be independent and to embrace being different then it’s impossible when we have so many restrictions.  When we come home with hours of homework and have to do it all in one night then wake up and do it all over again with not enough time in the day to get our assignments done it get a little hard to do.  We spend hours and hours at our school, but when we go to see a two hour long sporting event we suddenly have to pay to see our peers play.  If you are a student, then you should not have to.  If you are sick and need to go home, but cannot get a hold of your parents you cannot leave.  The fact that you have to get called in is ridiculous; we are in high school, not kindergarten.  A day does not go by when we all feel disrespected by teachers.  If we are not supposed to be sassy to you, then you cannot be sassy to us.  Being yelled at and told what to do and when to do it if when we say one thing back we are simply again yelled at.  Going to school is like working with more pressure so when a holiday is present we should get it off.  This gives us more time to do homework and catch up on sleep that is lost because of school starting to soon.  When we do not turn in an assignment on time, our grade goes down.  When teachers do not grade a paper on time, we deal with it.  When we do not get to class on time, our grade goes down.  When teachers are late, we deal with it. The balance in this school is not fair for one class to be treated over the other.  During spirit week, we want to show our spirit and seniority.  But when we are told that doing this could cause suspension, it changes our harmless game.  If we want to feel like we are actually people and have real rights, then we should be able to do what we want.  We should not have other people bossing us around like salves and having these restrictions makes us become less than what we are.

Declaration of Independence

We the students of Grosse Pointe South High School find it necessary to band together in order to create a common stronghold, that united shall allow for the dissolution of silly rules and regulations imposed upon us by King Provenzano and the Grosse Pointe School District. It is with all due respect that we bring forth our opinions. It is in doing so that we hope to engage in a quicker absolution of the past and current administrations’ mistakes. Only then can we look to our future within this institution and see that it is bright and beautiful.

Let it be known that we are entitled to certain rights as high school students. Namely, we have the Right to Sanity, Happiness, Physical Well-Being, Expression and Proper Accommodations.  We have been held prisoners in this school for too long. It is as if we are hardened criminals that must do homework or blog until our hands are calloused or fall off.  We are chained to our rooms and not allowed to wander the halls, nor leave a social event for fear we may commit some crime.  Our happiness and physical well-being have been ignored.  These administrators should realize that we, as teenagers require more sleep, adequate nutrition and longer lunch hours.  Let’s not forget about our much-needed happiness in order not to commit suicide or deal with depression.  Also, we suffer from inadequate facilities with no air conditioning, ventilation, and no free parking lot that is sufficient enough to accommodate all students. It is our right and duty to provide for all students the necessary elements in order to succeed at this institution of higher education. We must rid this place of old ideals usurped with pain, agony, and suffering which they have inflicted. Hence, we must abolish this fiefdom.  We hereby submit as proof of our allegations the following testimony that we do solemnly swear to be the whole truth.

Crucible Epilogue

Gabrielle DeLoof

Mr. Provenzano

Honors American Lit. 1^st Hour

17 October 2011

Crucible Epilogue

As for Salem, it is now far off from my world.  I am better because of it.  I hated living there during such a critical time of my life.  It was a wretched place that made me feel like an outcast. I had nothing.  I was an orphan.  When I thought I had something or someone who cared for me, I was wrong.  It was all just a bad dream.  However, everyone got their just dues.  The one person in particular was that no good John Proctor who was the devil.  I can’t believe that some feel that he died a hero.  How can someone who commits such a grave sin as adultery ever become a hero?  He hurt me so much that I am happy that he was hung.  It is too bad that I wasn’t the one who got to tighten the noose.  

As that chapter in my life closes, another one opens.  My good friend, Mercy has allowed me to travel with her.  We have come upon an interesting town called Boston.  There are many men here who are different than those in Salem.  I am no longer a slave but can work as I please.  I labor in a place called a saloon for Mr. John Smith.  He is such a gentleman.  The other day I got a taste of something called “gin.”  The fresh, cool, crisp taste of one sip made me feel like I was in the woods amongst many pine trees.  For a second, I saw myself dancing in the woods with the girls again.  Or was I dancing in the saloon amongst the women and men?  I did not feel like myself, but I was happy as my subconscious came before me.  I didn’t think I drank but a sip, but perhaps it was more.  Soon I found myself in another room with unfamiliar surroundings.  Mr. Smith was introducing me to Mr. Jim West.  Next, I was dancing with a blonde hair, blue-eyed man.  Soon he said that he would be paying me very well for my time spent entertaining him.  Why would I be paid to be dancing with a man?  Hard up for money, I was interested in what he meant by his statement.  No sooner than I wished to find out than I soon came to realize what he intended.  Before I knew it, I was unclothed, and in his arms lying next to him in bed.  I kept wondering if this was a dream or reality. 

It is harder to get out of things than you first think.  Mr. Jim West and I started off drinking and then danced.  I soon came to tell Mr. West that I had a great time with him and hoped to see him again sometime soon.  Mr. West asked where I was going and I told him that I was tired and needed to go home with Mercy.

 “Well Abigail, Mercy is having some alone time with Mr. James Dean” said Mr. West.  What was I supposed to do?  I couldn’t go to Mercy because she was having “alone time” with Mr. Dean, so I simply asked Mr. West if he could take me home.

 “I would love to take you home, Abigail, just come with me to the back room to get my jacket.”  As we approached the back room, Mr. West told me I could spend the night here since there was an extra bedroom.  I agreed to do the latter.

Mr. West took me to the bedroom where I would be staying the night and showed me the sheets, blankets, and where the bathroom was. 

“Thank you Mr. West.”

 “You’re welcome,” he replied. As he was about to walk out, Mr. West shut the door and locked it.

 “I am fine Mr. West.  I need to change and get in bed,” cried Abigail.

 “I will be helping you get dressed tonight, Abigail.”  As he said that to me, he tossed me on the bed and started to undress me.  He put himself on top of me and the way he was touching and feeling me felt so nice.  I didn’t want him to stop so I let him stay with me for the night.

I awoke to the rays of light from the sun on my face as it entered through the window in the bedroom.  Just then I heard a pounding of feet on the floor and a husky voice say, “Thanks for the night.”  Then the door shut.  A few minutes later there was a knock on the door and Mr. Smith entered the room.  He told me what a great job I had done and that I was welcome to stay and continue to work at the saloon.   I went to find Mercy in order to discuss Mr. Smith’s proposal.  I found her alone inside the saloon sitting on a bar stool.  We exchanged our stories with what had transpired during the night, and we both somehow felt that this was our new life and beginning.  To finally have someone or people that love you, while at the same time being taken care of and paid lots of money was all that we needed. 

Some people call us devils or prostitutes, but they will never know what it was like in our previous life as orphans.  Finally, we had the ability to dance without being told it was witchcraft, and we had found happiness within this new life.   

Crucible Essay

The Crucible

            In Arthur Miller’s novel, The Crucible, it is seen that hysteria enabled the town of Salem, Massachusetts to flourish in witchcraft. It became a community where once upright citizens were accused of committing absurd crimes. The town engaged in rumors which caused much panic and apprehension. The latter, caused the town to be blind to what was truly right. The hysteria was perpetuated by many people in the town in order to benefit them. Abigail Williams was a teenager who was responsible for a lot of drama as well as incited the trials because of her behavior.  Also, Reverend Parris tried to conceal the inappropriate behavior of his daughter by blaming others. In addition, the Putnams wanted to blame others for something that couldn’t be controlled. Ultimately, the three characters noted to be responsible for the witch trials are Abigail Williams, Reverend Parris, and the Putnams.                                

            Abigail Williams provoked the witch trials in the town of Salem.  Abigail’s parents were dead so she had no one to look up to or someone to tell her what was right and wrong.  When John Proctor had an affair with Abigail, she thought that he was truly in love with her and wanted to be with her.  “I look for John Proctor that took me from my sleep and put knowledge in my heart!  I never knew what pretense Salem was, I never knew the lying lessons I was taught by all these Christian women and their covenanted men!  And now you bid me tear the light out of my eyes?  I will not, I cannot!  You loved me, John Proctor, and whatever sin it is, you love me yet” (Miller 24)!  This quote clearly explains that the affair John had with Abigail belonged to the past.  He tried to put the incident behind him while for Abigail she had no sense of closure.  She begged him to come back to her and leave Elizabeth.  John didn’t love Abigail and she could not see that.  John only had an affair with her because his wife was sick and wasn’t able to do those things.  Abigail made the town of Salem pay by being a leader and inspiring the deaths of innocent people. Abigail was very upset with John Proctor and she then directed her anger at his wife, Elizabeth. One example in which Abigail tried to blame Elizabeth in order to get her out of the picture was “Why, look at my leg. I’m holes all over from their damned needles and pins.  The jab your wife gave me’s not healed yet, y’know” (Miller 149). Abigail then continues to lash out inappropriately and this behavior is what incites and contributes to the initiation of the trials.

            Not only was Abigail Williams responsible for the witch trials, but Reverend Parris played a major role as well.  Parris felt that with Abigail’s progressively more uncertain actions and the hints of witchcraft would threaten his reputation.  “It must come out-my enemies will bring it out.  Let me know what you done there.  Abigail, do you understand that I have many enemies” (Miller 10)?  Parris was exceedingly paranoid, and a power-hungry man who cared more about his reputation than he did about his about sick daughter, Betty.  He was well liked by many people in the town and had modest respect.  Parris did not pay any attention to what was most important in his life.  Reverend Parris also left out the fact that his own niece, Abigail, had been caught dancing in the forest.  This also showed he was desperate to protect his reputation and he didn’t want this information leaked out. As a result, Parris was quick to judge others such as when he spoke about John Proctor, “He’s come to overthrow this court, Your Honor” (Miller 92)!  Parris wanted to get rid of the townspeople who were against him. He did not want to lose his position as minister of the town which as a result led him to contribute to the trials.

            Lastly, it can be seen that the Putnams had a basis to bring forth and foster the witch trials. While Tituba was being accused of witchcraft, she was asked who came with her to the Devil.  She said that she saw Goody Good and Goody Osburn.  “I knew it!  Goody Osburn were midwife to me three times.  I begged you, Thomas, did I not?  I begged him not to call Osburn because I feared her.  My babies always shriveled in her hands” (Miller 47)!  Here, Mrs. Putnam stated that Goody Good and Goody Osburn were the reason for the death of her children.  She, like the others wrongfully accused people of something that was not in their control.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Putnam wanted to blame and put Goody Good and Goody Osburn in prison because their seven children had died at birth. Also, they wanted to gain more land, and if these people were put in prison or hung, they could undertake this.  Thus, they suspected witches killed their children and not natural diseases which provoked them to instigate the accusations of the trials.

            Many people in the town of Salem were accused of witchcraft even though they were innocent.  The community was composed of many respected and responsible individuals.  However, during the course of the story these citizens become unscrupulous and are driven to accuse others in the town for their own personal gain.  This sets in motion a town full of hysteria and blame which created an environment in which the trials were brought to fruition.  An innocent teenager named Abigail Williams, blamed John Proctor because she was too young to understand what their affair was about.  Also, Reverend Parris had ulterior motives of trying to uphold his reputation and position within the town.  The Putnams too, had material gains to spread the notion of witchcraft.  Thus, Abigail Williams, Reverend Parris, and the Putnams were ultimately responsible for the propagation of the trials due to their own inherent needs and wants. 

Crucible Post 2

"At one point, Proctor tells Hale that he believes in witches even though he does not.  Would you be willing to lie and tell people you believe something you do not in order to protect yourself?  Why or why not?"

It seems that most teenagers would bow to peer pressure and go along with the crowd instead of being singled out. It is so much easier to say you believed in something than be ridiculed for being different. However, it takes a strong person to go against the grain of the crowd and stand up for what he or she truly believes in.

There are other times that I would see it very advantageous to lie if it meant life or death. For example, take an American soldier who might be taken captive by the Iranians or some other military force, it would be in his or her best interest not to disclose the truth to save his or her life as well as the life of others.

In my own experience such as school and friends, I always say what I think.  My friends may have a different opinion of their own but I say what I think even if it is different.  Saying what you think and being honest is the best feeling you can have with yourself.  Otherwise, if you believe something that is wrong, you go home or just think to yourself “I really wish I would have said what I truly felt.”  If you ever have to believe something you don’t or lie to fit in with a group of friends, they aren’t worth your time.  You deserve friends that are willing to hear what you have to say even if it is different and friends that respect your opinion always.  Your TRUE friends will never judge you for being different or having different opinions, but accepting you the way you are.  Being different is what makes us all unique in our own way.  I know I don’t want to be like everyone else so I always say what I feel no matter how different it is from other people’s opinions.  It is important to respect other people’s opinions even if they are different than your own.  

Crucible Post 1

In the first Act of “The Crucible,” it is seen that Reverend Parris is the authoritative person with all the power. He is very strict and easily influenced. When Parris doesn’t agree with others he will purposely turn against them. In the following quote we hear him proclaim that he is not to be questioned or turned against as he is in power, “I want a mark of confidence, is all!  I am your third preacher in seven years.  I do not wish to be put out like the cat whenever some majority feels the whim.  You people seem not to comprehend that a minister is the Lord’s man in the parish; a minister is not to be so lightly crossed and contradicted---“ (Miller 30).   Also, when Parris is speaking to Proctor about obedience in the church and authority he reminds Proctor who is in charge. He states, “It is not for you to say what is good for you to hear!” (Miller 30) It is here Parris tells Proctor that it is not up to him to decide what Parris needs to know because he is the authority of God.

Near the end of Act 1 the reader sees the shifting of power.  This occurs because the town is questioning its faith. They do not trust Parris because Proctor is trying to rally the people against him. This questions his authority and they start to turn to witchcraft. Their society, which had been dictated by power and practicality, is now becoming insane and controlled by the girls. Abigail now becomes the one with power. She threatens the girls with the possibility of death should they tell anyone the truth about what happened in which they were practicing witchcraft as she states, “ And mark this. Let either of you breathe a word, or the edge of a word, about the other things, and I will come to you in the black of some terrible night and I will bring a pointy reckoning that will shudder you” (Miller 20).  Thus, their society, which was once ruled by faith and order, is now in the hands of an insane and dangerous girl.

   

"Sinners" Follow Up Post

People today would probably question the relevance and true meaning of Jonathan Edwards’ sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”  The language and examples that are used may be typical of the 18^th century, but are not something that we can relate to in modern day society.  For example, Edwards states,  “ The Old serpent is gaping for them, Hell opens its mouth wide to receive them; and if God should permit it, they would be hastily swallowed up and lost” (Perkins 94).  Not many people have seen or experienced a serpent during the 21^st century.  Thus, this analogy of God allowing sinners to be swallowed by a serpent is something that they cannot relate to, and it makes the meaning less significant or less likely to be believable.

Another example is the language used which can be hard for people today to understand.  “He that believeth not is condemned already.  Ye are from beneath.  And thither he is bound” (Perkins 94).  If this could be put into today’s language it might not only be better understood, but it could provoke some serious thought or contemplation.  The sermon written in the manner it was by Mr. Edwards is not very appealing or interesting to people today, especially teenagers.  This classic is boring, hard to read, as well as hard to understand for people in the 21^st century.  It needs different examples and an updated vocabulary.

Work Cited

Perkins, George, and Barbara Perkins. The American Tradition in Literature. Ninth ed. McGraw-Hill, 1999. Print.

"Sinners" Follow Up Post

People today would probably question the relevance and true meaning of Jonathan Edwards’ sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”  The language and examples that are used may be typical of the 18^th century, but are not something that we can relate to in modern day society.  For example, Edwards states,  “ The Old serpent is gaping for them, Hell opens its mouth wide to receive them; and if God should permit it, they would be hastily swallowed up and lost” (Perkins 94).  Not many people have seen or experienced a serpent during the 21^st century.  Thus, this analogy of God allowing sinners to be swallowed by a serpent is something that they cannot relate to, and it makes the meaning less significant or less likely to be believable.

Another example is the language used which can be hard for people today to understand.  “He that believeth not is condemned already.  Ye are from beneath.  And thither he is bound” (Perkins 94).  If this could be put into today’s language it might not only be better understood, but it could provoke some serious thought or contemplation.  The sermon written in the manner it was by Mr. Edwards is not very appealing or interesting to people today, especially teenagers.  This classic is boring, hard to read, as well as hard to understand for people in the 21^st century.  It needs different examples and an updated vocabulary.

Work Cited

Perkins, George, and Barbara Perkins. The American Tradition in Literature. Ninth ed. McGraw-Hill, 1999. Print.

"Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" Post

This video briefly touches upon the sermon given by Jonathan Edwards in 1741. It creates a sense of urgency to read the sermon in order to be spared from hell. There are pictures of terrible acts of God or nature depending upon one’s beliefs. These include fire, lightening, and crashing waves. Also, it depicts people listening avidly as he preaches. It then goes on to show how Edwards’ sermon had changed the people of the time.

Based upon the vivid pictures in the video it is anticipated that Edward scared the pants off these people. He probably told them to stop sinning, and to behave. Also, he told them they must read the gospel faithfully and live it to its fullest. Nothing should be taken for granted because the powerful God could immerse them in his powers of hell. He wanted them to change radically. In order to do the latter, he preached a different way from what they were used to with their rituals. Edwards wanted them to wake up to a new life and new beginning. In the end, if everyone listened they would find God’s salvation.

Descriptive Post

 Twin Towers on 9/11/01
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=9/11&um=1&hl=en&sa=N&tbm=isch&tbnid=Bn8Mq6YjYUXMsM:&imgrefurl=http://www.prisonplanet.com/articles/december2006/071206dambreaks.htm&docid=IHNuBsCh8jJ95M&w=400&h=300&ei=66ZuTo--BuqFsgLP7tm4CQ&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=1007&vpy=248&dur=319&hovh=194&hovw=259&tx=169&ty=151&page=4&tbnh=118&tbnw=157&start=72&ndsp=24&ved=1t:429,r:6,s:72&biw=1366&bih=546
This was once a vibrant city home to many yellow taxis and skyscrapers. As one looks across the smoke filled skyline there are only black clouds of dust. A deep, dark, heavy veil falls upon the buildings.The twin towers engulfed in smoke and the fire consumes the buildings and people inside. The soot and stench of petroleum fill the air. People can hardly breathe as they succomb and slowly suffocate. Screams of people, sirens, and thunder ring throughout the city. The majestic buildings bow down to the ground. A travesty and terror that Americans will never forget.

Class Expectations

Respect, turning in homework on time, and studying are three main expectations Mr. Provenzano has of his American Literature class.

Firstly, respect involves being kind and good to Mr. Provenzano and other students.  This could be as simple as not talking when the teacher is presenting a lesson, or arriving on time to class.  When respecting someone it means taking them seriously and giving them a value.  It is important not to interrupt a conversation until the person has finished what they are saying.  This allows for a better understanding and time to reflect upon what is being discussed.  One should not back talk to the teacher or belittle and make fun of classmates.  This creates a feeling of safety and trust within the classroom.  Growing up and being mature is learning how to show respect.

In addition to respect, homework needs to be turned in on time.  Homework is an integral part of learning.  It reinforces concepts that have been presented in the classroom.  If it is not done or turned in late then this is a disadvantage to other students who take the class seriously.  Timeliness allows the teacher to accomplish each unit and move on to the next in order to accomplish the goals of American Literature.  Also, turning in work on time teaches students how to be organized.  These skills are learned by writing down assignments in a planner and checking it regularly.  Late assignments will not be tolerated and result in a zero.

Lastly, studying is an importannt component of American Literature.  This can involve writing and reading assignments.  Some time will be provided during class to work with other students and collaborate on projects.  Studying is a time consuming process which allows one to acquire knowledge.  Being a student is like a full time job where the goal is to study.  A nice, quiet environment is best suited for studying such as a library.  Good study habits are essential in order to succeed.  Studying is very important in a students life to achieve good grades.

About Me

Swimming is something that I am good at and I do for myself.  It is a competitive sport but very relaxing.  When you swim, it involves the use of all your muscles when you practice.  You also become at ease with yourself.  You can swim in a pool or lake but I swim in a pool.  I swim everyday, six days a week for two hours.  I love working out and knowing that I am getting better and faster each day at something I am really good at.  Swimming has proven to me that practice makes perfect and hard work always pays off in the end.  An example of this is that I have achieved two Olympic Trial Cuts in the 100 Backstroke and 200 Backstroke.

Besides swimming, I also like to listen to music.  I have a varied collection of songs on my iPod.  Some of my favorite tunes include You Be Killin' Em, Still I Rise, Live It Up, Could It Be You (Punk Rock Chick), Silly Boy, and many more.  Music can be another form of relaxation.  I will get into the "zone" before a swim meet by listening to the music on my iPod.  Also, I take my music with me when I run as well as drive in the car.  I like to play music on our piano.  My selection of music for the piano is that of classical.  This is quite different from my iTunes.  Either way, music is a big part of my life.

Lastly, I come from a family of four girls.  We are very close in age.  As a matter of fact, my mother had four children in four years.  Not only are we close in age, but we are close knit as well.  We pretty much look out for each other, share things, and are best friends.  I am one of the middle children.  You know what they say about middle children.  Well, you know it isn't true.  I just like to excel at things and have a type A personality.  Overall, I am friendly, athletic, caring and come from a family of girls.