Gender difference Essay Example for Free

Gender difference Essay The article I read is â€Å"‘Health is not a man’s domain’: lay accounts of gender difference in life-expectancy in Russia†. The authors, Ilkka Pietila and Marja Rytkonen, examined the meaning of health to Russian lay people, conducting interview with 29 people aged 15-81. They concluded that the role of the individual in healthy responsibility is very weak, with a stronger emphasis on societal and governmental influence. They also found that in relation to gender, gender roles and relations are static with few alternatives despite social changes. This study was prompted by the large gender gap in life-expectancy in Russia. In 2006, the average life expectancy was 59 years for Russian men but 72 years for Russian women. Pietila and Rytkonen wanted to see if this gap was caused by gender perceptions of health and/or each other or by something else. The theoretical basis for this research is a process Frankel and Davison call ‘lay epidemiology’, which states that â€Å"individuals interpret health risks through the routine observation and discussion of cases of illness and death in personal networks and the public arena, as well as from formal and informal evidence arising from other sources, such as television and magazines (p. 071). The researchers discerned â€Å"four types of explanations: essential/naturalist explanations (biological and psychological differences), explanations related to social roles, explanations related to social change and explanations related to health behavior† (p. 1075). They also found that these explanations often centered around one health behavior: heavy drinking. This article is a great because of its discussion the masculinity behind drinking, as well as the cultural aspects yet how the women tended to see drinking as more of a health hazard then the men who participate in it. The phenomenon of the gender gap and the cultural aspects of drinking add unique curveballs to solving the health crisis in Russia today. An article like this one is very important because it illustrates factors that need to be considered when coming up with a public health policy for Russia. For example, this findings of this research would support the argument that prohibition would not work in reducing alcoholism in Russia; alcohol’s cultural significance is too strong for such a policy to have any ‘lay’ support. The article also noted its limitations. The authors only interviewed subjects in St. Petersburg, which is one of the more Westernized cities in Russia and is more likely to have an higher educated and socioeconomic population compared with the majority of Russia. The authors conceded that this population dynamic may have skewed the results. They also admit that their research sample was small (only 29 people interviewed), although they did their best to have a variety of ages and occupations within these people. One excellent point in the researcher’s methodology is the use of native-Russian speakers to conduct the interviews, and having men interview men and women interview women. The use of native speakers would allow for the nuances of language and communication to be picked up. The gender separation also nullifies the possibility that gender biases would have taken place during the interviews.

Is Keeping Animals In A Zoo Cruel?

Is Keeping Animals In A Zoo Cruel? Until recently, the existence of zoos in our society was never something which we thought twice about. Zoos were widely accepted as educational and entertaining institutions. Children, and adults, love seeing animals, and a visit to the zoo has always been something we look forward to. Gradually, however, discussion has aroused about the morality of keeping animals, and other creatures in captivity, as animals have rights such as we do. There are around 430 zoos in Britain alone and 10,000 worldwide. Conditions vary greatly, with the worst being nothing more than concrete prisons holding very distressed animals. (Born Free Charity). This quotation shows the insensitivity of the proprietors of such establishments and gives us a clear picture of the conditions in which creatures are kept. Rather than encouraging animals to thrive in natural settings, zoos place very unnatural boundaries on their residents. For example, in zoos, polar bears are usually confined to spaces that are only around one-millionth the size of their minimum home range in the wild. Animals who stray across large distances in nature often develop zoo chosis in captivation which is similar to dementia in humans. Typical behaviours resulting from boredom and distress when placed in zoo enclosures, are endlessly pacing or swimming in circles. Animals have evolved from nature, just as humans, and each belongs undisturbed in its own natural habitat. To remove these animals from what they are used to against their will is immoral. As humans, we must treat animals humanely in our role as stewards of the earth. It is therefore unacceptable that animals in zoos under our care, are suffering from neglect and early death, through distress and health problems. In the wild, creatures such as the ones found in zoos are free to roam without restraint and interact with other species. Whereas, in captive conditions they are only able to mix with their own species, sometimes only being a few of each species. If these animals do not get on with the others in the enclosure, they have no way of escaping each others company, and animals, like us, have personalities and forge friendships and rivalries. Furthermore, animals do not gain the necessary skills for survival in zoos and so will never be able to be reintroduced back into the wild and survive. Therefore they will have to live an enclosed, cramped lifestyle entirely dependent on humans who do not always care for them appropriately, for the entirety of their lives. On this note, Attachment relationships between animals are often studied by separating pack animals and recording their subsequent behaviour. Studies of primates have shown that separation results in changes of behaviour that are symptomatic of both psychological and physiological stress. Because of this, it is clear that in order to maintain physical and psychological well being in animals, it is vital that animals which are used to being together with animals of their kind should not be isolated from one another. In many zoos, it is felt necessary that animals should be alone as it saves costs and ensures there are no conflicts between them. Zoos are therefore knowingly causing the animals psychological and physiological trauma. Animals kept in zoos have no privacy; they are continually watched by the public and have little enclosed space where they can hide. Zoo animals develop anxious behaviours if they are always in the public gaze. Being stared at all the time can be predatory and threatening. Another strange species staring at you or enproaching in your environment is disconcerting and agitating for wild animals in the same way that a tiger coming into your house and staring at you would be not just threatening, but simply terrifying. This in turn can lead to aggression and distress in the animals. Even when the animals are not disturbed by human presences watching over them, there is constant noise of other creatures and maintenance works on the zoo (e.g. Tractors). They will get no peace and quiet. This is not natural for any animal. They should be able to have time on their own to relax in harmony. Zoo Keepers and many employees of zoos do not treat the animals living within the exhibitions with enough compassion or care. A San Diego Zookeeper described an incident in which an African Elephant was beaten for two days with axe handles, as a way of motivating the animal to put on a display for visitors. This kind of treatment is extremely vindictive and clearly demonstrates how in some zoos, the living beings are not treated as well as they should be. Even though they are given all the necessities for life and they have a veterinary surgeon on hand at all times, the animals only get enough to get by, and no more. After all, zoos are a money making business. They often scrimp and save at the expense of the animals well being and comfort. Large animals such as elephants are often subjected to cruelty above and beyond that of smaller animals. A study has proven that in a certain American zoo, the elephants there were dying at a faster rate than they were breeding, as a result of dis ease spread by the lack of space and dirty cages. The exhibition of animals in captivity tells an impressionable public that cruelty to animals can be condoned. Many zoos claim that they are of high educational benefit, and although some visitors only spend around two minutes at each inclosure, using the animals for entertainment rather than for instructive matters. Although, children do get to see animals and experience how they live, which they wouldnt get the chance to do if animals were only in the wild. Zoos have to educate the public about the value of animals so that people understand the importance of conservation. After a fun trip to the zoo, visitors leave with a newfound awareness and perceptive about animals. How are they going to discover these interesting facts if they dont get to see the creatures? Zoos give people an appreciation for animals. They need to see, listen to and smell an elephant to gain love and respect for the creature. Viewing an animal on TV does not give a person the same effect as seeing it first hand does. An arguable advantage of having zoos present in todays society is that many endangered species will be protected and will refrain from becoming extinct. Zoos promote the awareness of animals that are being wiped out. This would allow for people to help fund the repopulation of those animals. If more people are aware of new animals on the endangered species list, there is more of a chance that researchers will get more funds. But endangered species may not gain as much support and attention of the crowds as people are only usually interested in popular species like Lions. Furthermore there is some debate because of the inadequate gene pool of a species in zoos. This could, lead to inbreeding which would then create mutations and defects in the offspring. In conclusion, animals are born wild and therefore should live and die wild. It is wrong that wild creatures should be kept in enclosures in zoos as they do not get to behave naturally: a lion cannot hunt for its prey, or experience the nobility of living with other lions in a pride. My overall view is that keeping animals in zoos is extremely cruel as they are not free to convey their natural way of living, whether it is to roam in a large area, to breed with a partner of their choice, or to kill their own prey. The animals are troubled every minute of the day by people observing them, something which, in the wild, would hint great danger. All of these factors contribute to my strong sensitivity to this topic of treatise. Word count- 1310 Sources www.bornfree.org http://www.captiveanimals.org/zoos/zfact1.htm Pros and Cons : A Debaters Handbook [Paperback] published 1999 http://www.idebate.org/debatabase/topic_details.php?topicID=1 Trees in Celtic Culture and Art: An Analysis Trees in Celtic Culture and Art: An Analysis The use of yew, rowan, birch and Scots pine trees in Scottish Celtic mythology, legend, symbolism, religion and literature Preface Celtic society was dominated by its links to nature and the spirituality of the world around it. Of these natural objects, trees represented the ultimate in spirituality and wisdom. This is not only due to the life giving properties of trees within the forest-strewn wilderness of Europe at the time, but also because of the supposed wisdom and power that trees offered people. Their longevity, practicality, power and importance within Druidism means that trees, and in particular yew trees, formed the basis for literature, religion, myth, legend and symbolism within Scottish Celtic culture. Introduction Trees play an important role in Irish and Scottish Celtic traditions in terms of mysticism, legend, medicinal remedies and religion and literature. The most famous example of this is probably the Celtic notion of the Tree of Life, a tree that symbolizes the connection that links all the worlds in Celtic mythology. The Irish Celts often took this even further with each chieftain having their own specifically grown sacred tree that would allow the clan leader to stay in contact with the Otherworld and his ancestors (Conway, 2000, p. 69). This essay will examine these concepts with particular emphasis on the importance of yew, rowan, birch and Scots pine trees in Scottish Celtic mythology, legend, symbolism, religion and literature. The first section will look at the history of trees within Celtic mythology and literature. Sections two and three will then examine the importance of trees in Scottish Celtic myth, legend, symbolism, religion and literature. History of Trees in Celtic Mythology and Literature The importance of trees in Celtic mythology is linked to their belief that all living things were spiritual and mystical beings. Whilst other cultures only saw animals as being spiritual, the Celts attached spiritual meaning to both animals and plants. Trees were also initially important because they provided food, warmth and housing for people, and therefore were seen as a sort of sustainer of life. The Celtic landscape of Northern Europe was also one where thick forests dominated the landscape. All of this contributed to trees becoming extremely important in Celtic history. Trees have also been used from the very early stages of Celtic existence as a type of alphabet and calendar known as Ogham. This intricate pattern of carved grooves has different trees representing different months (Matthews, 2001, pp. 6-8). Trees played a part in helping the sick in a physical way as well as a spiritual way. The oils and barks of different trees were used to treat illnesses ranging from abscesses and bronchitis to general disinfectant. The trees were seen as having great wisdom and being linked to both this world and the Otherworld (Conway, 2000, pp. 39-41). Trees were part of the magic of the time, and not just in Celtic culture. Throughout Europe there were examples and symbols of trees as powerful creatures. In Germany the rowan tree root could be formed into a humanlike image called an Alraun that could house a spirit and be communicated with (Greer, 2003, p. 19). The birch and yew trees were also mentioned extensively within the old Germanic language as part of the runes within Anglo-Saxon culture (Greer, 2003, p. 63, 149). It is clear that trees and plants have played an important part in language, culture and literature since the beginnings of the Scottish Celtic culture. In fact, the belief in the power and spirituality of plants can be traced right back to the Celtic religion and culture at its foundation. The very term Druidism is a testament to the Celtic worship of trees and plants. This is because Druid as a word is formed from a root DR. This root signifies a tree – in particular the oak – in several of the Aryan languages. Therefore, the very fabric of Celtic religion is based upon the sacred tree (Squire, 2003, p. 33). The original word for church at the time, kirk, was in fact derived from quercus – a type of oak. This species of oak was particularly sacred, and therefore its name became the basis for the place of worship that has been transformed through language to the modern church of today’s world (Thiselton-Dyer, 2004, p. 22). Trees were also important for warding off evil spirits and protecting the land. They protected the land physically through their thick branches that provided wood, shelter and shade from the elements (Davidson, 1988, pp. 13-14). However, they also provided protection from the evil of witches and other demons. The yew tree was particularly painful and disliked by the witches – mainly because it had an association with churchyards and being planted in such places. This gave the tree such holy power that it could take away the abilities and evil of witches (Thiselton-Dyer, 2004, p. 44). Trees could also be inhabited by spirits, which meant they were important vessels to link the current world with the spirit world. Trees were seen as a form that ghosts and spirits could take in order to contact the living, and this was something to be both worshipped and feared in equal measure. The trees were often seen as ‘semi-tangible’ objects that were not as vastly important as the highest gods, but they were symbolic of the demi-gods and along with animals were far more important than many of the other elements and objects around them (Macbain, 2003, p. 33, 37). The other element that made trees so sacred and valued was their longevity. Trees could live hundreds or even thousands of years, which made the people of the time see them as something almost eternal. They were timeless and ageless in many ways, and their longevity also gave them supposed wisdom. Man would decay and crumble, but the trees would live on and gather knowledge throughout the centuries. This is another reason why they were revered and worshipped as sacred objects (Murray and Card, 1998, p. 8). This section has outlined some of the background reasons and history as to why trees were sacred in the Celtic culture. The next section will look at specific examples of trees in Celtic myth, legend and symbolism. Trees in Myth, Legend and Symbolism Perhaps the most important elements of tree symbolism, legend and myth within Celtic society are the calendar and alphabet of trees and the Tree of Life. The tree calendar has 13 of the 25 tree letters as names for months. For example, birch is the symbol for new starts and therefore represents November – the first month in the Celtic calendar (Murray and Card, 1998, pp. 8-9). The yew, rowan and ash trees were also included in this alphabet (Crews, 2005). Each letter or tree symbol within the alphabet means something quite different and symbolizes a certain attribute within human existence. One famous poem and story shows the power of trees in Celtic myth and legend. ‘Big MacVurich and the Monster’ tells how the whelp of a monster is captured by MacVurich and in order to get it back the monster must build a house for MacVurich with timbers in the roof. The beast agrees, but will not use certain types of wood. Whilst the house is built and it seems that MacVurich has what he wants, the beast has in fact denied MacVurich fertility (wild fig), safe passage to the next life (yew) and protection against illness (white poplar) amongst others. The fact that these trees were left out of the construction is significant for it means that MacVurich would not have a good life – the monster was taking revenge through the power of trees (Murray and Card, 1998, pp. 19-20). Trees were also symbolically important for culture and art at the time, as they were the surroundings and inspiration that gave rise to the art of the time. Celtic artists worked predominantly with metal, and their works focused on the animals and plants around them (Green, 1998, p. 1). Symbols such as this show how the tree binds the worlds together, from the living world to the Otherworld and beyond. The tree is the link to all worlds with its roots deep in the ground and its branches far into the sky (Green, 1992, p. 25). The tree of life is also a symbol for the fact that trees provided protection, food, shelter, fuel and warmth for people and animals throughout the forest-strewn landscape. The trees were the objects that gave people the greatest resources that could sustain them, and therefore practically they were a life force (Green, 1998, pp. 3-4). Trees could also symbolize power and political force, as reported by the Romans in their fights with Druids. The Druids would use the forests to gather their clans together, communicate with each other using the branches and fight back. This is why the Romans, who did not specifically believe in the divine power of trees, cut down as many trees as possible to stop the Druids. This was both a practical and spiritual measure, given the significance of trees to the Druids (Heinz, 2008, pp. 139-140). The yew tree has perhaps the greatest significant and myth surrounding it, and even today has an element of mysticism around it due to its old age and the dwindling numbers of yew trees in Europe. Yew trees are in fact poisonous, and so they were used as parts of weapons within Celtic times. They also symbolize the dream-state, as the poisonous vapours from a yew tree can make a person become light-headed or even hallucinate. The tree is in fact given thirty three different titles and meanings in the 12th century Book of Leinster (Heinz, 2008, p.151). However, the most common meaning associated with the yew tree is death, rebirth and regeneration. As one of the longest living trees it was a symbol for the continuation and renewal of life (LaFey, 1999). The birch tree is also associated with birth or inception. The birch is the beginning of all things in the link between life and death and is used in the training of ‘beginning’ for Druids. The rowan tree is seen as a magical tree that grew food of the gods. The berries of the rowan tree were highly sacred and protected. The pine tree represents hardiness and continuation in life – a characteristic of the evergreen tree (LaFey, 1999). All of these trees and many more played a vital role in the development of Celtic myth, legend and symbolism. The next section will move on to look at the importance of trees within the religion and literature of the Celtic tradition. Trees in Religion and Literature As already discussed, trees were an important part of the Druid religion during the time of the Celts. Not only were trees the location for gatherings of Druids, but the trees themselves were part of the Druid religion. The birch was used to train those in the religion, and the carvings of the alphabet from trees were used for communication. Even the calendar that was observed by the Celtic Druids was based upon the tree alphabet. Much of the church of the Druids was based around the sacred importance of trees. Even special houses for religious and spiritual purposes were constructed out of vast quantities of wood to add a sacred element to the construction. Basic houses such as the Pimperne Down round-house used over 200 trees for construction for both practicality and religious advantage (Green, 1996, pp. 195-197). However, literature also contains a number of tree references and stories. In a practical sense, trees were obviously important in the physical creation of stories with wood and then eventually paper. However, before paper the use of trees for carving stories upon was commonplace. The tree alphabet characters were easy to inscribe and were carved upon wood, and such tree tablets served as early writing surfaces within Celtic society. The particular use of trees and the order of characters or letters often depended on when and where the particular trees shed or grew leaves and spread within a particular area. This is why certain areas put more emphasis on the importance of yew or rowan trees above birch or pine trees, and vice versa (Crews, 2005). One of the most famous of these tree stories is the ‘Battle of the Trees’, reworked by Robert Graves. It shows the rise of the belief in trees and the rise of a class of people devoted to agriculture from those who were merely priests within the Bronze Age. The story shows trees and plants as not only being part of the ruling of the nations, but also spirits that contribute to the decision making of who is to lead. Trees are the wisdom behind the power that rules within Celtic society (Rosenfeld, 2005, pp. 196+). There are references to all the various trees within texts and literature throughout Celtic culture. The rowan tree is mentioned extensively in the Dindsenchas or History of the Names of Places. This book tells of a female Druid called Dreco who wounded a man called Cethern (a word derived from rowan) with a rowan spear. Incantations took place when the weapon was used, showing that the rowan was more of a magical weapon than just a physical weapon formed from the tree (Blamires, 1997, p. 77). The birch tree can be used to call upon different beings such as the Daghdha. This rough looking man with unkempt appearance, long hair and a large belly can be used with the birch to help you understand the trees more effectively and communicate with the newly born and the Otherworld (Blamires, 1997, pp. 71-72). The yew is written about more than any other tree and is worshipped as two of the five sacred trees within the Druid religion. It is used to prepare magical literature, wands and in divination. As the oldest of the trees it holds more wisdom than any other and is used for the most important tasks within Druidism. The yew has no special significance in the sense of being about one object or element – the yew simply is and always will be in the same way that God or other worshipped entities whose existence is merely enough to understand the greatness of their power (Blamires, 1997, p. 210). The holiness of the trees and wood can also be seen with fines that had to be paid if you damaged trees such as the oak, yew, ash pine or apple tree. These ‘lords’ of the wood were sacred and could only be used for certain things. Any damage to these trees meant a fine and potentially replanting a tree to replace the one damaged. Rowan and birch were classed as lower trees within this system, and a lesser fine needed to be paid. However, all the trees were seen as precious commodities not only physically but spiritually. This is why trees were the inspiration and object of worship for so many within Celtic society and culture (Delahunty, 2002, pp. 16-18). Conclusion Trees have a long and rich history within Scottish Celtic society in a variety of areas. The reverence of trees came about because of the huge prevalence of trees within Europe at the time of the Celts. These trees provided the life force, shelter and sustenance for people to live their lives. As this developed along with the Druid religion, trees gained a spiritual significance along with the other elements of nature. Animals and weather are important within Celtic tradition, but trees are the basis of the Druid religion and Celtic myth. The concepts of the Tree of Life and the Ogham tree alphabet and calendar show how trees penetrate all areas of Celtic life. Different trees have different meanings, with the rowan and birch trees symbolizing magic and birth respectively. However, the most important tree within the Celtic tradition is the yew tree. This tree represents the highest power of trees. Its longevity, poisonous properties and ghostly shape make it the most revered and feared of all trees whose existence is as important as any modern God. This fear and reverence of trees as a link between worlds inspired the art, literature, legends, symbolism and behavior of Scottish Celtic society. Bibliography Blamires, S., 1997. Celtic Tree Mysteries: Practical Druid Magic and Divination. Llewellyn Worldwide. Conway, D.J., 2000. Advanced Celtic Shamanism. United States: The Crossing Press. Crews, J., 2005. Forest and tree symbolism in folklore. (Online). Available at: http://www.fao.org/docrep/005/y9882e/y9882e08.htm (Accessed 13th January 2009). Davidson, H.R.E., 1988. Myths and Symbols in Pagan Europe: Early Scandinavian and Celtic Religions. Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University Press. Delahunty, J.L., 2002. Religion, War and Changing Landscapes: An Historical and Ecological Account of the Yew Tree (Taxus baccata L.) in Ireland. Diss., Graduate School of University of Florida. Available at: http://etd.fcla.edu/UF/UFE0000522/delahunty_j.pdf LaFey, M., 1999. Sacred Trees, Oghams and Celtic Symbolism. (Online). Available at: http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Shire/3951/dryadart.html (Accessed 14th January 2009). Green, M., 1992. Symbol and Image in Celtic Religious Art. London: Routledge. Green, M., 1996. The Celtic World. London: Routledge. Green, M., 1998. Animals in Celtic Life and Myth. New York: Routledge. Greer, M., 2003. The New Encyclopedia of the Occult. Llewellyn Worldwide. Heinz, S., 2008. Celtic Symbols. Sterling Publishing Company, Inc. Macbain, A., 2003. Celtic Mythology and Religion. New York: Kessinger. Matthews, C., 2001. Celtic Wisdom Sticks: An Ogam Oracle. London: Connections Book Publishing. Murray, L., and Card, V., 1998. The Celtic Tree Oracle: A System of Divination. London: Connections Book Publishing. Rosenfeld, N., 2005. Trees, Kings, and Muses: Robert Gravess Battle of the Trees and Jothams Parable of the Trees. Papers on Language Literature, 41(2), p. 196+. Squire, C., 2003. Celtic Myth and Legend. New York: Courier Dover Publications. Thiselton-Dyer, T.F., 2004. The Folk Lore of Plants. New York: Kessinger.

A Report On Pride And Prejudice English Language Essay

A Report On Pride And Prejudice English Language Essay By comparing and contrasting the marriage proposals of Mr Collins and Mr. Darcy, examine the attitudes to marriage explored by Jane Austen in Pride and Prejudice. You should: Consider Jane Austens use of language; Consider social and historical contexts; Comment on any moral dimensions explored in the text; Discuss key characters; Comment on central themes and ideas During the eighteenth and nineteenth century marriage is a state to which every lady was expected to aspire: it is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. The first sentence of the novel introduces two of the most important aspects of life at the time; marriage and wealth. During the time of Jane Austen, marriage was about money, power and appearance. These components were essential for what would be deemed, a good marriage. Marriage was for reasons of increasing the couples, and their families social and financial ranking. The opening sentence does not provoke any images of love but only to have security of marriage which aids both families both socially and for wealth purposes. Mr. Collins proposal to Elizabeth is strange to say the least. Not only is it clear that he has his proposal speech ready made, he refuses to take no for an answer. He has even prepared a rejection speech to try and win her back. We can relate to Elizabeth from the beginning of the book, her rational thinking it what she may consider her greatest trait. She is described as having something of quickness than her sisters which is completely true. This quickness is shown when she argues back to Mr Collins, and later in the novel,someone of far higher ranking which was socially unheard of. Mr. Collins proposal is humorous in the sense that he clearly does not know Elizabeth and her personality. Jane Austen use of irony appears often in Chapter 19 as she mocks him in a kind nature without insulting him too greatly. Mr. Collins is formal in his proposal and having no feeling of diffidence he is sure that he will not be refused. His proposal is structured like a speech or a sermon in his case, and amuses us as the reader and Elizabeth herself as she finds it difficult not to laugh. The use of rhetorical devices such as numbering his points and punctuating his proposal with terms like thus adds to the hilarity of it. Mr. Collins tries to flatter her by talking of her perfections, a use of hyperbole. He also describes her as a natural delicacy. Mr. Collins tells Elizabeth that he has been told Mr Collins, you must marry by his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Lady Catherine believes he owes it to himself and to all his family to marry Elizabeth. Mr Collins talks of the death of Elizabeths father, Mr. Bennet. An odd topic to bring up when proposing to a lady. Elizabeth rejects his efforts but he rapidly continues as if he will not leave until hear gets the yes that he wants to hear. Elizabeth argues back because he is not accepting the fact that he has been refused. Again he has a counter argument for her rejection: it does not appear to me that my hand is unworthy your acceptance. Elizabeth starts to be rude to him to see if that will work. He insults her and her family by reminding her that she is not wealthy: your portion is unhappily so small that it will in all likelihood undo the effects of your lovingness, he also says that it is by no means certain that another offer of marriage may ever be made you. Mr. Collins is intelligent enough to realise that the Bennet sisters have little chance in the unforgiving marriage market of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Mr. Collins makes it clear that as far as he is concerned, respectability is the most important attribute in a wife; he values this more highly than wealth or beauty. This is a sensible decision due to his profession; a clergyman must be respected so he requires a respectable wife. Despite his proposal seeming definitely passionless and quite cold hearted it develops to become rude when he is refused but at the same time , amusing because of Mr. Collins being such a foolish man. Like Mrs. Bennet, Mr Collins is in the novel for comical value. Mr. Collins gives a series of practical and completely unromantic reasons to marry Elizabeth. During the time that Jane Austen wrote this novel, marriage was often arranged for practical reasons and Jane Austen includes in her novels situations that may occur in everyday life, she did not write about fantasy worlds. Jane Austen was a realist author. Jane Austen is extremely effective in conveying how Elizabeth deals with this proposal as Jane Austen was said to have based her novel on close observances of real people and situations similar to the ones described in the book. She was familiar with these situations. Mr. Collins feels he should marry one of his cousins, because if he doesnt they will be left homeless and penniless on the death of their father. He feels it is morally important to marry one of them. When Elizabeth hears of Charlottes engagement to Mr. Collins she is rather disparaging of their engagement. This shows that despite Elizabeths quickness of mind and intelligence, she may be being too idealistic. We sympathise with Charlottes position because she has taken an informed pragmatic decision and has accepted Mr. Collins offer of marriage. She has agreed to marry him for the pure and disinterested desire of an establishment. This is a typical marriage because it is based on the grounds of practicality. This marriage is not romantic or fuelled by love, most marriages of the upper class were just like this during the eighteenth century and may be the reason many gentlemen of the time had mistresses. Due to the fact that they were highly ranking members of society, their reputati on remained intact despite having two women in the house. Mr. Darcys first proposal to Elizabeth is a huge contrast to Mr. Collins. Darcy speaks with emotive language telling Elizabeth how his feeling cannot be repressed and that he ardently admires and loves her, despite her background. The adverb ardently suggests he passionately loves her. Elizabeths astonishment was beyond expression; this is a perfect example of Jane Austens economy of expression showing Elizabeths surprise. Despite telling her that he loves her, it is almost ruined by his first comment which tells us that in vain have I struggled. meaning that he has struggled not to love her but he cant help it. Elizabeth blushes as she could not be insensible to the compliment of such a mans affection. Her feelings towards Darcy are conflicted, which shows an early sign of possible love, she may be attracted to him without knowing it but she quickly looses all compassion in anger. She was not angry with Mr. Collins proposal, she just found it amusing but Darcys proposal is different. Mr. Darcy is over confident that she Elizabeth will love and accept him immediately. Elements of pride are found in this section of the novel. Mr. Darcy is one of the proudest characters in the novel. He is extremely wealthy and his manners are exemplary but there is a certain air about him that makes him seem snobby and this makes him slightly unl ikeable. He creates a reputation for himself, when at the ball, he considers himself far too good to dance with any of the local girls. He knows his social position and superiority. By doing this he has insulted the entire neighbourhood and Elizabeth takes the insult very personally because she overhears him saying that she is not beautiful enough for him. Though she is not as pretty as her sister Jane, she is still pretty by the neighbourhoods standards. So in showing his self-pride he has damaged Elizabeths and she tries hard not to show it. Mr. Darcys proposal is similar to Mr. Collins due to the fact that he suggests to Elizabeth that she is less in rank than himself and that marrying her is a degradation. It was socially daring at the time for someone of such a high social rank to marry below themselves despite Elizabeth being a gentlemens daughter. Elizabeth eloquently expressing her feelings towards the unexpected proposal and refuses his best efforts of securing an engagement. Darcy is a man who is not used to denial of something so he is shocked at her refusal. There is narrative tension as we wait for a reply from Darcy. They have an argument and Darcy storms out after hearing enough of Elizabeths clever and well thought through replies. Elizabeth cries for half an hour as she goes over what had happened in her head. Jane Austen use of exclamation marks epitomises the agitated state of mind of Elizabeth. Jane Austens use of free indirect speech is effective in conveying characters thoughts to us as the reader and is necessary in Chapter 11 (Volume 2). it is neccesary to us during this chapter because it tells us what thoughts are conflicting Elizabeth. It is the most effective way to convey he thought processes. Lydia Bennets elopement was seen by society very badly. She was not yet a lady and after she eloped with Wickham she had very little chance as being viewed as a lady in the future. Lydia running off and living with Wickham without the benefit of marriage had ruined her reputation and damaged the reputation of her entire family. She would be considered a loose woman, and no man of a good family would ever consider marrying her. Wickham certainly had no intentions of marrying her. This is what provoked the letter from Mr. Collins telling Mr. Bennet of his opinion on Lydias elopement, societies view and Lady Catherines view. Wickham took Lydia away with him to Scotland because he could and Lydia had fallen desperately in love with him. He was self-indulgent and would never deny himself any pleasure in his power. He knew that Lydia would be good company because he could easily persuade her to sleep with him. Lydia was very attracted to Wickham, he should have known better and had the sel f control and decency not to allow her to have sex with him. Mr. Collins tone in his letter is a very serious one telling Mr. Bennet that it is his last chance to preserve his families reputation. He is warning that Lydia is compromising the other Bennet girls chances, and that he should throw off his affection for her and leave her to reap the fruits of her own heinous offence. This is a very severe action to take. Mr. Collins is telling Mr. Bennet that if he wants to keep his reputation intact, he must stop loving his daughter. This view that Mr Collins has, reflects the views that eighteenth century society would have had. The Bennets do not have a ready supply of money, they are relatively rich in land and assets but not in money so Wickham has no intentions of marrying Lydia. Therefore, Darcy paid Wickham to marry Lydia. Mr. Darcy arranging for Wickham to marry Lydia preserved not only her reputation but also her sisters reputations. He removed the disgrace from the Bennet name. In Volume 3 Chapter 14, Elizabeth realises she was wrong in her judgement of Mr. Darcy. She travelles to Pemberley to rescue her sisters reputation and speak with Mr Darcy. She is confronted by Lady Catherine who tells of Mr Darcys supposed engagement to her daughter. Lady Catherine de Bourgh makes clear her opinion on Elizabeth marrying Darcy and warns her off. She sees the marriage between Elizabeth and Darcy as socially unusual as it is the joining of two people from different social classes and financial background. Lady Catherine is displeased to say the least that her nephew Mr. Darcy is not intending on marrying Lady Catherines daughter. If Darcy and Lady Catherines daughter did marry, then two very large fortunes would be joined, increasing the financial status of both families. But there is one person getting in the way of Lady Catherines ideal marriage, and that is Elizabeth. Lady Catherine makes very clear she wants Darcy to marry her daughter. I believe Mr. Darcy is unwil ling to marry Miss de Bourgh as he is in love with Elizabeth. Elizabeth dares to stand her ground in her argument with Lady Catherine. Once again Lady Catherine gives a threat: I am not to be trifled with. Elizabeth stands up to the snobbery of Lady Catherine. As Elizabeth is a match for her, she resorts to insults by saying Elizabeth is a women of inferior birth, of no importance in the world. Lady Catherine is part of a slowly diminishing generation in which old opinions were dying with the generation. Lady Catherines views on marriage were traditional and society was changing. Despite the attempts, warnings and insults of Lady Catherine, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy get engaged in Volume 3 Chapter 16. Their engagement has been long anticipated by the reader and it finally comes at the end to finish with a happy ending just like Jane Austens other novels. Darcy refers to Elizabeth as dearest, loveliest Elizabeth. Jane Austen makes clear that Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are the perfect love match. This is affectionate language used by Mr. Darcy. There are many different attitudes towards marriage expressed in Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice. Mr. Collins and Charlotte could be seen as a good couple, despite the lack of love, as they both have the belief that marriage is for practical reasons. Lady Catherine believes marriage is for wealth and power; and Elizabeth got her wish of marrying someone who is deeply in love with her. Elizabeths marriage to Darcy was to set a trend over the next centuries, more people married for love and now in the 21st century nothings changed. Jane Austens clever novel still has readers gripped two centuries since it was written. The marriage we hear about which isnt entirely based on this principle is the joining of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy. Elizabeth goes through most of the novel disliking Mr. Darcy but this is mainly as she has not seen his full character and this is odd for Elizabeth as she is usually good with judging character. She likes to watch people and how they behave. Elizabeth learns that she has been mislead by Darcys character and had she known the truth, she would love him just as he loves her. Darcy leaves the countryside only to return to a different Elizabeth. They work out their misunderstandings and agree to marry. Notes: All this is after Mr. Collins prepared proposal to Elizabeth in chapter 19 where she declines his proposal. Charlotte Lucas who is Elizabeths best friend agrees to marry him as she fears she may not get another offer. Elizabeth remains close friends with her, despite the fact that she is married to the awful Mr. Collins. Charlotte is relatively happy as she has security financially and socially as Mr. Collins is a pastor. He is high in social rank but not as high as Mr. Bennet or Lady Catherine De Bourgh who is his patroness.

La Curacion Plena :: Spanish Essays

La Curacion Plena Tres Fuentes Citadas  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "Una noche me sentà ­ deprimida y con deseos de suicidio otra vez; sin embargo a pesar de estos sentimientos, tambià ©n de alguna manera sentà ­ una profunda confianza en Dios. No quise que los nià ±os me vieran llorar asà ­ que despuà ©s de acostarles, me encerrà © en el cuarto de baà ±o, me acurruquà © en el suelo, y repetà ­ una y otra vez: "Jesà ºs, confà ­o en Ti". No sà © cuà ¡ntas horas estuve asà ­, pero bien entrada la noche tuve una experiencia que cambià ³ mi vida. Sentà ­ que estaba en la cruz con Jesucristo pero que en lugar de sentir sufrimiento, sentà ­a un amor tan intenso que era capaz de apagar ese dolor. Sentà ­ como Su amor borraba mi pecado y supe entonces que mi curacià ³n era plena. Desde ese momento nunca mà ¡s he vuelto a sentir la desesperacià ³n del aborto, à ºnicamente el amor profundo y el perdà ³n que recibà ­ de Jesucristo. He visto cà ³mo mi vida ha cambiado milagrosamente, cà ³mo he tenido el privilegio de ayudar a infinidad de mujeres y hombres que sufren de las consecuencias del aborto. El amor de Jesucristo no sà ³lo ha transformado mi vida sino tambià ©n la vida de aquellos a los que amo." (Bonopartis) Las consecuencias de un aborto:    MUERTE: "Me siento muerta, muerta, muerta por dentro". "Cuando salà ­ de la clà ­nica, dejà © parte de mi corazà ³n allà ­ tambien". "Me debà ­a haber muerto con el bebà ©". "Siento que quiero morirme por dentro". "Siento que nunca debà ­a haber nacido, y muchas veces quisiera morirme". "Quisiera ser yo la muerta y no mi bebà ©". "Querà ­a morirme con mi hijo". "Cuando te separaron de mi... me quitaron un pedazo de mi alma y de mi corazà ³n que nunca podrà ¡ ser reemplazado". "Parte de mà ­ murià ³ el dà ­a que me separaron de ti". "No querà ­a ir, pero estaba demasiado cansada para pelear, ni siquiera podà ­a pensar. Dejà © de sentir. No era mi verdadero yo ese dà ­a, era otra persona. Ya no sà © dà ³nde està ¡ ese yo mà ­o. Creo que murià ³ ese dà ­a". "Siento que no valgo nada, que quisiera morirme para escapar el dolor y la culpabilidad..." NO PUEDO LAMENTARME/OTROS NO ENTIENDEN: "Sentà ­ que algo andaba mal conmigo por sentirme tan afectada por mi aborto como lo estaba", "Durante largo tiempo no podà ­a hablarle a nadie sobre eso y si lo hacà ­a todos estaban de acuerdo que yo no habà ­a hecho nada malo.

Global Warming Essay -- Environmental Global Climate Change

Global Warming   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the February 1st edition of the New York Times, journalist Andrew C. Revkin discusses the rising threat of global warming, and more importantly, the disagreement between various nations and institutions upon the definition of â€Å"dangerously high global warming.† Revkin’s article, titled â€Å"Deciding How Much Global Warming Is Too Much,† brings to light the various failed attempts at creating a barrier at which industrialized countries (the main producers of the greenhouse gasses which result in global warming) will cut the release of harmful gasses into the atmosphere. Revkin also discusses how upcoming events, conferences; reports will hopefully solve this problem.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The initial proposal for controlling global warming was signed over 11 years ago, in these proposal 193 countries agreed to cut human interference with the environment, if the environment were to reach a level of certain danger. However, within this treaty there is no specific definition of danger. This lack of a clear description of danger has led to one failed conference, Kyoto, and hundreds of countries, scientists, and policymakers to attempt an agreement on the level of damage caused by global warming.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Recently, many countries have requested a definition of unacceptable risk by measuring and comparing the change in average temperature. The European Union has responded to these requests by agreeing upon the raise in temperature of 2.5 degrees or beyond as being far too da...

Great Leadership

Great leadership is a rare skill. It is much more rare than most people realize. For most people it doesn't come naturally. It is amazing how many organizations are successful even though they have only marginally competent people leading them. Many times this is because the structure of the organization helps make up for a leaders short comings. Sometimes it is because a particularly talented staff that makes up for the leaders deficiencies. While great leadership skills can make someone successful, the inverse is not true. Being successful doesn't make you a good leader. If you are looking for leaders to learn from make sure you are looking for people who actually have good leadership skills and not just someone who is successful. You can't assume that someone is a good leader just because they have had success. Many times people try to emulate people who have had success and try to follow their leadership styles. While this might be a good thing people often end up mimicking the bad habits of individuals. Don't assume that someone's leadership style is effective just because they are successful. Many times they may be successful in spite of their leadership skills not because of their leadership skills. A good organizational structure can often hide someone's poor leadership skills. Many times leaders are simply riding the wave of momentum from an earlier success that their leadership skills may have had very little part in actually creating. Actually creating. Communication skills, is an important element. Communication will help the leader to easily interact with people and his followers. By having good communication skills with others, the leader can give and get opinion, shares ldeas and so on. Commuincation is important to avoid miscommuincation in an organization. A leader should have this skill to interact with his client from different language and background as well. Listening skills also important, a leader should listen to his followers, and get feedback from them. Feedback from the followers is important by this way the leader gets to know about the followers better. This help to improve the job too. Besides this, a leader should have a clear vision on what he is doing. Vision will gives the leader a clear mindset on what he is doing. Important to have a vision and working towards achieving it. For example in an organization without a clear mindset a leader will not have a proper and clear mindset to get things done. Passion or desires. It important to have passion towards the job we are doing . Without passion or desires we will not fell satify with the job we are doing. Passion is the door of achievement. Positive attitude. A good leader should have a positive attitude and positive thinking. By being a positive person it gives a lot of inner strenght and bulid confident in a person life. Positive mindset and attitude always help to understand and gives a good solution to the problem. A leader has to be a good problem solver as well. To solve the problem the leader has to be calm and does not blame others for his mistake. A leader should find the solution to every problem he come across in life. A leader should not run away from the problem but stand and face it will full confident. Futhermore, a leader should always be focused on what he is doing to achieve his goals. Focused and always work closely to achieve his mission and vision in life. By being focused in life it will be easy to achieve their dreams. A leader should be a good example to others. In other words be a set of example to others by having a strong character and also able to lead his followers. Be an example by having a good and pleasant personality, be a confident and etc. A leader should be a risk taker. Risk taker in what he is doing. For example bring in new product or giving a solution to the problems. By being a risk taker it will motivate to be a good leader in future. A leader should not be scared to try something new but a leader should accept to the changes in the organization. A leader should also be tolerant and always remain calm. A leader should be patience and calm at all the time, especially went making a decision. A leader has to have a control of emotions too. A leader cannot bring his famliy problem to the office. A leader should always show a profesional attitude. Futhremore, a leader should always have am important element which is honest and intergity. For example a leader should be an honest person. In and company; a leader should be a good example and must be honest to take over responabitily. Honest by being trust by others is important to create the trust. Dedication towards work is a must. The leader should havr the feel of dedication to wards his job. By having the feel of dedication the leader will feel tha he has the full responibolity towards his job. A leader should be an ambitions person. A leader also must like new challenges in life and always wants to learn something new in life. A leader should be a disciplined person. Disciplined refers to have control in what he is doing, A leader should be diciplined by being disciplined and following the rules and regulations of the company or the organization. A leader must show a very good example to others. A good personalities is important in being a leader. A leader should know how to be persentinfront of others. Foe examlpe the leader should know how tgive a good persentationinfrornt of others as well. Be a leader has to be courage and brave to face any kind of situation in life. A leader should also protect his followers as well. Not only protect them but giving them strenght and courage in what ever they are doing. A leader should also be a good teacher ti his followers and guide them went they fece difficult in solve any task. Leader havetoshould give 100% of committed to his job. It is important to give 100% of committed in what he is doing. A leader should also be a good role model to others. Leader has to be an example by having all the good characteristics in himself. Being leader is not a simple thing. A leader has to overcome all the opticsal. A leader should remain calm in what ever problem comes to him. Example of a leader our DR. Seri Mahathir, had been a good leader to our country Malaysia. He had ruled the country for several years. He also had work hard to bring success to our country. A leader shoud have the charchater of care for the team. Care to the team refers to understand the followers have a close ralationship with each of them. Listen to them gaving them space and freedom to think and give opinion too. Besides this having a often meeting with them to know their process by weekly meething and can give them enough of traning to each task or projects thea the followers are doing. Praise the followers after each task or projects that they are doing. By just appreciate them for a good job. Foe example just saying them well done or thanking them will make a different to them and this will encourage them to do better job in the future. A leader should also accept critism from others. A leadr should accpet critism as a feedback and work to be a better person in life. A laeder should not be arrogant to his followers to have a good working enivorment. Puncity is also an importantto be leader. By being on time for meeting or wokt it will set a good example to his followers to follow it.

Health Care Operations Essay

In a healthcare organization, there are issues, like any other organization. The difference is that in this type of organization, peoples’ health or even their lives can be at stake. Therefore, there is little room for error and all issues must be addressed as soon as possible so that the impact can be controlled and minimized. One such issue can be the overcrowding of the emergency department at hospitals. Many hospitals face this problem especially at the time of disasters and calamities. At times of emergencies, injured people can be flowing in. At times like these, there is always a shortage of space, doctors, supplies and medical attention. Such a problem can have a great negative impact. To analyze the root cause of this problem, following is a ‘five whys’ section aimed at getting to the root of the problem. Why-1 Why is the emergency department being overcrowded? There is not enough space to accommodate the incoming patients. There is mostly a lack of beds, rooms, doctors, medical supplies and treatment. At times of emergencies, the patients coming in are severely injured and need medical attention. With limited resources, these patients do not get enough attention and the delays can cause complications in their medical conditions. Injuries and illnesses can be worsened and lives can be lost because of this lack of space and resources. Why-2 Why is there a lack of space and resources in the hospital? Â  The lack of space can be a design flaw or a problem during the planning phase when the operations scale were being mapped out and discussed. The lack of resources can have the same cause as well i.e. the planned scale of operations was underestimated. Why-3 Why was the scale of operations underestimated? The medical facilities needed in the surrounding environment or locality were underestimated; the planning team did not realize that the locality would need emergency medical facilities on a larger scale. Why-4 Why were the emergency medical needs of the locality underestimated? The survey and requirements analysis done before planning out the operations of the hospital were either done poorly or not at all. This can have several causes too like unskilled researchers and lack of expertise. Failure to look at all social aspects and the lack research backing the healthcare facility plan can be the root causes of the problem. Thus, all projects need to be started off after thorough research and planning so that future issues can be looked after.