This blog is a part of thinking activity assigned by Dilip Barad Sir in I am going to write about the Interpretations of the poem by W.B.Yeats.
Poems by W. B. Yeats (1865-1939)
The Poem The Second Coming Analyzing
The Second Coming
Turning and turning in the widening gyre
The falcon cannot hear the falconer;
Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;
The best lack all conviction, while the worst
Are full of passionate intensity.
Surely some revelation is at hand;
Surely the Second Coming is at hand.
The Second Coming! Hardly are those words out
When a vast image out of Spiritus Mundi
Troubles my sight: somewhere in sands of the desert
A shape with lion body and the head of a man,
A gaze blank and pitiless as the sun,
Is moving its slow thighs, while all about it
Reel shadows of the indignant desert birds.
The darkness drops again; but now I know
That twenty centuries of stony sleep
Were vexed to nightmare by a rocking cradle,
And what rough beast, its hour come round at last,
Slouches towards Bethlehem to be born?
Analyzed the Poem :
"The Second Coming" by W.B. Yeats is a complex and enigmatic poem that delves into themes of chaos, collapse, and the anticipation of a profound transformation in human history. Structured in two stanzas, the poem employs vivid imagery and symbolic language to evoke a sense of impending doom and spiritual crisis.
The opening lines set the tone for the poem, with the image of a falcon losing its connection to its falconer, symbolizing the breakdown of order and control. This imagery of disintegration is reinforced by the phrase "things fall apart," which echoes the title of Chinua Achebe's novel and suggests a world in turmoil. The reference to "mere anarchy" and the "blood-dimmed tide" further emphasize the pervasive chaos and violence that has engulfed society.
The second stanza introduces the idea of a "Second Coming," echoing the Christian belief in the return of Jesus Christ. However, Yeats presents a more ominous interpretation of this event, suggesting that it will not bring salvation but rather unleash a terrifying force upon the world. The image of a monstrous creature with a "lion body and the head of a man" evokes a sense of primal terror and impending destruction. This creature, described with a "gaze blank and pitiless as the sun," embodies the relentless and merciless nature of the forces driving humanity towards its fate.
The reference to "twenty centuries of stony sleep" suggests a long period of dormancy or stagnation, during which humanity has been lulled into a false sense of security. However, this period of slumber has been disturbed by the stirring of dark forces, symbolized by the "rocking cradle" that has vexed humanity with nightmares. Now, with its "hour come round at last," the ominous entity "slouches towards Bethlehem to be born," invoking biblical imagery and suggesting the imminent arrival of a malevolent force that will disrupt the natural order.
Yeats's use of symbolism and allegory in "The Second Coming" invites multiple interpretations, ranging from a commentary on the political upheavals of his time to a broader meditation on the cyclical nature of history and the human condition. The poem captures the anxieties and uncertainties of an era marked by global conflict and social upheaval, while also tapping into deeper existential questions about the nature of existence and the possibility of redemption in the face of chaos.
conclusion :
"The Second Coming" is a powerful and haunting exploration of the themes of chaos, collapse, and the search for meaning in a turbulent world. Through its evocative imagery and symbolic language, the poem captures the sense of foreboding and existential dread that characterized the early 20th century and continues to resonate with readers today.
As the movie starts with one small village Bilgaon located in Chambel. And where the IPS Manoj Kumar Sharma fearlessly embraces the idea of restarting his academic journey and recaming his destiny at a place where millions of Students attemts the Worlds toughest competitive exam: UPSC.
Release date: 27 October 2023 (India)
Director : Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
This blog is a Thinking Activity based on Critical thinking of the above movie 12th Fail and it is a task given as a activity.
Movie Related to :
Education plays a vital role in the whole Universe as we can see in these present time where we are now living as a part of Students which matters a lot to us.
INTRODUCTION:-
WHAT IS A FILM REVIEW?:-
"A film review is when the critic or reviewer (the person who reviews the movie) watches a film and gives his honest feedback on how the film could have done better or how it has performed as per his view. A film review is a real one if it doesn’t boast about any particular person or incident’s performance in the film and talks more about what the audience can get as a value addition to watching the film. No bias is involved in such film reviews." (Bishnoi)
- Amit Bishnoi
While Reviewing the Movie one has to maintain some manner of it. Here are some points that were generated by Claude AI:-
Start with a catchy opening to draw readers in. Perhaps include an intriguing fact about the film or an attention-grabbing quote. However, don't give away too many details or spoilers.
Provide some essential background details in the first paragraph - the film's title, release year, director, key actors, genre, etc. Context helps readers understand your review.
Make your personal opinion and verdict clear early on. State whether you liked the film or not and give a brief justification.
Then provide a more detailed analysis of aspects like plot, character development, acting performances, cinematography, and direction. Point out the most striking strengths and weaknesses.
Compare the film to others by the same director or in the same genre - this gives helpful context. But don't focus too much on similarities/differences at the expense of critiquing the film itself.
Support your critique with concrete examples from the film. This shows you really know what you’re talking about! But beware of too many plot summaries or spoiler reveals.
Close the review with a summation of your overall judgement and whether or not you recommend watching the film. Invite readers to share their thoughts too.
While writing the review of the movie one can compare it with other movies and works as well which can be helpful to understand and read the plot of particular scenes. In the movie, not only scenes but Words, Shots, Music, Expression, Acting, etc also play a vital role. So, Let's try to see what I have seen in this movie.
Here is a video which talks about importance of Movie Criticism:-
About The 12th Fail Movie :
12th Fail is a movie made in 2023 in India. Vidhu Vinod Chopra directed, produced and wrote the film. (Chopra) It tells the true story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who faced very tough times but managed to become an Indian Police Service officer. The movie is based on a book written by Anurag Pathak in 2019. Vikrant Massey plays the main character, and other actors include Medha Shankar, Anant V Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Priyanshu Chatterjee. (The Indian Express)
Here is a trailer of that movie available in YouTube:-
PLOT:
"12th Fail" is a movie about a man named Manoj Kumar Sharma. He had a tough time growing up and didn't do well in his 12th-grade exams. He was cheating but after being inspired by Dushyant, a loyal and honest police officer, he leaves cheating and fails one time as well. But instead of giving up, he worked really hard to make his dreams come true. The film shows how Sharma faced many difficulties but never lost hope. He was determined to make a positive impact, and eventually, he became an officer in the Indian Police Service. The movie tells the story of Sharma's journey, with all its ups and downs, to inspire people to keep trying even when things are tough. It's a tale of hard work, resilience, and the power of never giving up on your dreams.
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK:-
Let's start this with the observation I did while watching the movie.
The Beginning scene of the movie and Last scene of the movie can be related with the life of Manoj. First he has no understanding of life and in the end he achieves his goal and also has a happy family.
The second one is a Long Shot or Wide Shot in which people are transforming from Manoj's jugadu rikshaw to Mukhya's bus which is like transferring the power and the one who has it is the one who decides it.
The third scene is a contradictory point made in the movie. Father of Manoj beat up his boss for bribing and at the same time Manoj is making the cheats for Exams. And the school also openly allows them to cheat.
While talking about the music it was mostly about the characters and does not have that much significance but silence is also there to convey the message.
The message of #restart is beautifully conveyed by the characters in it as well that it doesn't matter how many times you failed to restart your journey again.
There is also a scene which is like a normal shot but conveys the message that coaching is like a business for someone.
In one of the last scenes in which every student is waiting for the result which is like they are in the jail waiting for die or live.
CONTEXTUALIZATION AND THEMETICL STUDY:-
If we see this movie under the criteria of education somewhere it is inspired from real life but yet can't be the originality which is happening in most people's lives.
Education system discussed in this movie has reality in the context of coaching that it is a business nowdays.
Manoj has to make money for his family while studying. It can also be seen that all these people and the government failed to secure the minutes of students and somewhere family and he himself is also responsible for that.
seeing so many people mad behind the job and yet from thousands of people some of them are getting the jobs.
Not only in this profession but in others as well the government is failing to recruit people for jobs.
The movie talks a lot about how it's tough for some people to get a good education and a good job. It could show the problems in the system that make it hard for individuals to reach their education and career goals.
The movie might be mainly about someone chasing their dreams even when things are really hard. It shows how the main character never gives up and keeps going after what they want, even when there are a lot of tough obstacles in their way.
The movie wants to make people feel excited and ready to do things by showing how the main character changes a lot during the story. It teaches us that if you really try hard and don't give up, good things can happen.
The film might delve into themes of identity and self-discovery as the protagonist navigates challenges and discovers their strengths and capabilities.
The overall context of the movie is about Manoj and his struggle to get a job.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS:-
The question of students failing and struggling is a well-known and important issue in India as well as in other countries. Let us discuss some other Movies and Web Series related to the themes of the '12th Fail' Movie.
3 Idiots (2009 - Movie):-
"3 Idiots" is a funny and thoughtful movie from 2009 made in India. It's about three friends in college, played by Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi. The film, directed by Rajkumar Hirani and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is based on a book by Chetan Bhagat called "Five Point Someone."
The story is told in two parts: one happening now and the other ten years ago. It follows the adventures and friendship of these three students in an Indian engineering college. The movie makes fun of the pressures students face in the Indian education system. Apart from the main actors, Kareena Kapoor, Boman Irani, and Omi Vaidya also play important roles. It's a comedy-drama that makes you laugh but also makes you think about the challenges students go through. (Hirani)
Taare Zameen Par (2007 - Movie):-
While not directly related to the theme of Job, but it talks about the situation of student and study.
"Taare Zameen Par," which means 'Stars on Earth,' is a movie from 2007 made in India. Aamir Khan produced and directed it, and he also stars in the film alongside Darsheel Safary, Tanay Chheda, Vipin Sharma, and Tisca Chopra.The story is about Ishaan, played by Darsheel Safary, who is an 8-year-old boy with a special talent for art. Even though he's good at drawing, he struggles with his schoolwork. His parents, worried about his grades, decide to send him to a boarding school. At the new school, a kind art teacher named Nikumbh, played by Aamir Khan, thinks that Ishaan might have dyslexia, a difficulty with reading. The teacher helps Ishaan overcome his reading challenges and discover his true potential. The movie is a drama that shows the life and imagination of Ishaan, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting children with different learning needs.
Kota Factory (2019 - Web Series):-
"Kota Factory" is a TV series from India that you can watch online. It's made in Hindi and created by Saurabh Khanna, directed by Raghav Subbu, and produced by Arunabh Kumar for The Viral Fever.
The story happens in Kota, Rajasthan, which is a place famous for its coaching centers where students go to prepare for important exams. The main character is Vaibhav, played by Mayur More, who is 16 years old. He moves to Kota from Itarsi and the series shows what life is like for students in the city. Vaibhav is working hard to get into a top engineering institute in India, called the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). He's trying to do well on a tough exam called the Joint Entrance Examination. The show also features other actors like Jitendra Kumar, Ahsaas Channa, Alam Khan, Ranjan Raj, Revathi Pillai, and Urvi Singh in important roles. It's a series that gives you a look into the life of students, their struggles, and their efforts to achieve their goals.
Laakhon Mein Ek (2017 - Web Series):-
"Laakhon Mein Ek," which means 'One in a Million,' is a TV series from India that you can watch on Amazon Prime Video. It was created by Biswa Kalyan Rath and produced by OML Production. In the first season, which started on October 13, 2017, the story is about a teenage student named Aakash from Raipur. He faces a lot of challenges because he is sent to a coaching center called Genius Infinity in Visakhapatnam to prepare for a tough exam called the IIT entrance exam.
The second season, which started on April 12, 2019, is about Dr. Shreya. She fights with the government for better healthcare in a village called Sitlapur. So, each season has a different story, but both are about people facing difficult situations and trying to make a difference in their own way.
CONCLUSION:-
In conclusion, the blog reviewed the movie "12th Fail," exploring its themes and drawing parallels with other films. The movie, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, depicts Manoj Kumar Sharma's inspiring journey from poverty to becoming an Indian Police Service officer. Theoretical frameworks were applied to analyze cinematic elements, emphasizing the #Restart message of perseverance. Contextualization delved into educational challenges, and a comparative analysis with films like "3 Idiots" and "Taare Zameen Par" underscored common themes of student struggles. The blog ends by summarizing the central message of resilience and the power of restarting one's journey in the face of adversity.
This blog is a part of thinking activity about the War Poetry assigned by Vaidehi Haryani Mam.
The difference of all the War Poets is given below :
Response :
1.wilfred Owen
2. Rupert Brooke
3. Wilfrid Wilson Gibson
4. Siegfried Sassoon
5. Ivor gurney
Where it has a differences among the mentioned War Poets:
The war poetry presented here reflects a range of perspectives and experiences from different poets during times of conflict. Wilfred Owen's "Dulce et Decorum Est" and Wilfrid Wilson Gibson's "The Fear" depict the harsh realities and horrors of war, highlighting the physical and psychological toll it takes on soldiers. Owen's poem exposes the brutality and disillusionment of combat, challenging the glorification of war with its condemnation of the "old Lie." Gibson's poem captures the fear and uncertainty felt by soldiers, particularly in the face of death.
In contrast, Rupert Brooke's "The Soldier" and Siegfried Sassoon's "The Hero" convey a more romanticized and patriotic view of war, emphasizing themes of sacrifice and national pride. Brooke's poem portrays a sense of honor and duty associated with dying for one's country, while Sassoon's poem explores the disillusionment and cynicism behind the front of heroism.
Ivor Gurney's "The Target" offers a more introspective perspective, reflecting on the moral complexities and personal reflections of a soldier facing the possibility of killing an enemy combatant. Overall, these war poems vary in their portrayal of war, from the grim realities to the idealized notions of heroism and sacrifice, providing insight into the diverse experiences and emotions of those involved in conflict.
Question : Compare any two poems concerning the subject, style of writing, and patriotism.
Response :
These two poems offer contrasting perspectives on war, particularly regarding the portrayal of patriotism and the style of writing. In "The Hero" by Siegfried Sassoon, patriotism is depicted through the lens of societal expectations and glorification of sacrifice. The poem portrays a mother's pride in her son's death for his country, despite the harsh reality of his demise being a result of panic and fear rather than heroism. The style of writing in "The Hero" is more structured and formal, with a narrative that conveys a sense of detachment and irony, highlighting the disillusionment with conventional notions of heroism and patriotism.
On the other hand, "The Target" by Ivor Gurney presents a more introspective and somber perspective on war. The poem explores the moral complexities and emotional turmoil experienced by a soldier who has taken another's life in combat. Gurney's portrayal of patriotism is less overt, focusing instead on the personal struggle and inner conflict faced by the speaker. The style of writing in "The Target" is more introspective and reflective, with a stream-of-consciousness narrative that conveys the internal turmoil and moral ambiguity of war.
Overall, while both poems touch upon themes of war and patriotism, they offer contrasting perspectives and styles of writing. "The Hero" reflects on societal expectations and the disillusionment with conventional notions of heroism, while "The Target" delves into the moral complexities and emotional toll of war from a more introspective viewpoint.
Question : Do you find any such regional poem/movies/web series/songs that can be compared to any one of the poems Also, give a proper explanation of the similarity. the poem The Hero with Border movie.
Response :
Comparision : "The Hero" by Siegfried Sassoon to the Bollywood movie "Border," released in 1997.
"The Hero" by Siegfried Sassoon portrays the disillusionment with conventional notions of heroism and patriotism, highlighting the stark contrast between societal expectations and the harsh realities of war. Similarly, "Border" is a war drama based on the true story of the Battle of Longe wala during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
In both "The Hero" and "Border," there is a portrayal of patriotism and heroism that goes beyond traditional glorification. While society may view the soldiers as heroes for their actions, both the poem and the movie shed light on the human cost of war and the internal conflicts faced by the characters.
In "Border," the characters grapple with the challenges of war, including fear, loss, and sacrifice. The film depicts the bravery and valor of the Indian soldiers defending their country against Pakistani forces, but it also delves into the personal struggles and moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
Furthermore, both "The Hero" and "Border" employ a narrative style that conveys a sense of detachment and irony, highlighting the disillusionment with societal expectations and the sobering truth behind the facade of heroism. They offer a critical perspective on the complexities of patriotism and the sacrifices made in the name of national duty.
Overall, the similarities between "The Hero" and "Border" lie in their exploration of patriotism, heroism, and the human cost of war, as well as their nuanced portrayal of the internal conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in times of conflict. Both works challenge simplistic narratives of heroism and sacrifice, presenting a more nuanced and introspective examination of the realities of war.
In this blog I am going to share my views on the given questions which is assigned by Vaidehi Haryani mam.
Bob Dylan
Robert Frost
They both are one of the remarkable Personalities of American as a Lyricist and Poet who tried to make their Songs and Poems very meaningful by expressing their words.
Question : Which is your favourite Lyricist/Poet ? Why?
Response :
My favourite Lyricist is Taylor Swift who I love the most because I love to listen her songs like one of her is "Blank Space " and anytime I listen to her songs and She started her career at early age.
Question : Share some lines from the Bob Dylan songs that you feel are relatable to you. Also, write the themes visible in those lines.
Response :
Like A Rolling Stone
Once upon a time you dressed so fine
Threw the bums a dime in your prime, didn't you?
People call say 'beware doll, you're bound to fall'
You thought they were all kidding you
You used to laugh about
Everybody that was hanging out
Now you don't talk so loud
Now you don't seem so proud
About having to be scrounging your next meal
How does it feel, how does it feel?
To be without a home
Like a complete unknown, like a rolling stone
Ahh you've gone to the finest schools, alright Miss Lonely
But you know you only used to get juiced in it
This are the some of lines which are connected to my schooling Life when I was in hostel and in the finest school which was very different days of my life and this are themes which are visible like identity, isolation, loneliness, loss.
Question : Share some lines from the Robert Frost poems that you feel are relatable to you. Also, write the themes visible in those lines.
Response :
Fire and Ice
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice
This are the lines from his poem which are relatable to me and the themes relatable to me are where Ice symbolizes the cold and unfeeling of natured hatred which is like a Freezing and melting and the hatred goes away.
Question : Post the picture clicked during the activity and share some lines of any songs from Movies, Poems, or any type of music you feel is relatable to the theme of songs by Bob Dylan and poems by Robert Frost.
Response :
The Songs lines "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke: This soulful anthem addresses issues of racial inequality and discrimination. Like "Blowin' in the Wind," it reflects on the struggle for justice and the hope for a better future.
Lyrics
I was born by the river
In a little tent
Oh, and just like the river, I've been running
Ever since
It's been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon' come
Oh yes, it will
It's been too hard living
But I'm afraid to die
'Cause I don't know what's up there
Beyond the sky
It's been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon' come
Oh yes, it will
I go to the movie
And I go downtown
And somebody keep telling me
"Don't hang around"
It's been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon' come
Oh yes, it will
Then, I go to my brother
And I say, "Brother, help me, please"
But he winds up knockin' me
Back down on my knees, oh
There been times that I thought
I couldn't last for long
But now, I think I'm able
To carry on
It's been a long
A long time coming, but I know
A change gon' come
Oh yes, it will
Songwriter : Sam Cooke
And the themes of this songs are faith, hope and justice.
This blog is a thinking activity based on movie screening of Vita and Virginia. Assigned by Vaidehi Haryani Mam.
Question : Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship?
Response :
Vita is initiating the relationship as it is seen in the movie. And I think so Vita is taking advantage of the relationship.
Question : Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.
Response :
In the film virginia is more confused about her identity. And other side which talks
about where Vita she accepted to her identity and she is not having only one relationship with virginia but also makes lesbian relationship with other women. And Virginia wasn't totally sure for her identity, she is confused because in moive Woolf go to Lake or river side and see and after come home, that scene this about confusion of virginia.
In moive, the frame mother and Vita's conversation is totally that time Vita confidentaly talk to true as like she known to everything and identity.
Question : What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?
Response :
Society's thoughts about women and identity have varied across different cultures and historical periods. In the past, many societies had restrictive views on women's roles and identities, often prescribing specific expectations related to family, marriage, and societal norms. Women were sometimes perceived as having limited agency outside traditional roles.
I do agree with them because In the past, some of them believed women should stick to specific roles like taking care of the family, and this were the limited how they could express themselves. Over time, things have been changing, and now many of the people understand that women can have diverse identities and roles beyond old stereotypes. People are talking more about giving women equal opportunities and respecting their choices, but there are still places where challenges exist. The idea is that women should be free to be themselves and not limited by other views.
Question : Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.
Response :
Observing the society during Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf's time, which was the early 20th century, reveals a complex tapestry of social norms and expectations. Women, in particular, were often confined to traditional roles, with societal attitudes reinforcing limited views on their capabilities and identities. The era carried a conservative tone, and conventional gender roles were deeply ingrained.
However, the period also saw intellectual and artistic movements challenging these norms. The Bloomsbury Group, a collective of writers and artists, exemplified a more liberal approach, fostering discussions on unconventional ideas and relationships.
The time also reflected the struggles and conflicts arising from the clash between traditional expectations and the desire for individuality and self-expression. Vita and Virginia's relationship challenged the conventions of the time, illustrating the tension between personal desires and societal constraints.
In short the early 20th century exhibited a society marked by conservative gender roles, yet it was also a period witnessing the seeds of change and the emergence of voices challenging established norms, laying the foundation for the evolving perceptions of women and identity.
Question : Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?
Response :
Symbols of leaves and vines could symbolize growth, change, and a connection to nature. In the context of "Vita & Virginia," if leaves and vines were prominently featured, they might represent the evolving nature of Vita and Virginia's relationship. Leaves could symbolize the changing seasons of their connection, while vines may signify the intertwining complexities of their lives.
Prominently featured leaves and vines, it could suggest a visual metaphor for the characters' personal journeys and the organic, sometimes unpredictable, nature of their interactions. Filmmakers often use symbols like leaves and vines to convey deeper layers of meaning and evoke emotions tied to the themes of the narrative.
Natural elements symbolizing the complexities of their relationship. Spaces, such as Virginia Woolf's writing room or Vita Sackville-West's garden, could be used to convey the characters' personalities and the dynamics of their interactions.
Symbols might include objects like letters or books, representing the writers' intellectual connection, or perhaps natural elements symbolizing the complexities of their relationship.
Symbols might include items representing societal constraints or personal struggles, such as closed rooms symbolizing confinement or open landscapes expressing freedom.
Questions : "Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia?
Response :
For Vita Shraddha Kapoor would fit into a Bollywood Adaptation.
Thinking Activity : Given on Archetypes related to Literature
This blog is a part of thinking Activity assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad Sir and the some questions are given on that I will give the responses.
# The Meaning of Archetypes :
Archetype, (from Greek archetypos, “original pattern”), in literary criticism, a primordial image, character, or pattern of circumstances that recurs throughout literature and thought consistently enough to be considered a universal concept or situation.
And there are many types of Archetypes like Character, Symbolic etc.
Question : What is Archetypal Criticism? What does the archetypal critic do? What is Frye trying to prove by giving an analogy of 'Physics to Nature' and 'Criticism to Literature'? Share your views of Criticism as an organized body of knowledge. Mention the relation of literature with history and philosophy.
Response :
Archetypal criticism is a literary theory that focuses on the analysis of recurring symbols, motifs, and themes in literature, often drawing on the concept of archetypes. Archetypes are universal symbols or patterns that are deeply ingrained in the human psyche and appear across cultures and time periods. These archetypes, such as the hero, the mentor, the journey, the quest, etc., resonate with readers on a subconscious level, providing insight into human experiences, emotions, and values.
The archetypal critic examines how these archetypal elements manifest in literary works, exploring how authors use them to convey meaning, shape characters, and structure narratives. By identifying archetypes and tracing their significance, the critic seeks to uncover the deeper layers of meaning within a text and understand its resonance with readers.
Northrop Frye, a prominent literary theorist, famously compared criticism to literature in the same way that physics is to nature. Just as physics seeks to understand the underlying principles and structures of the natural world, criticism aims to uncover the fundamental principles and patterns of literature. Frye's analogy suggests that criticism, like physics, seeks to discern the laws governing its subject matter—in this case, literature.
Criticism, as an organized body of knowledge, encompasses various theoretical approaches, including archetypal criticism, structuralism, psychoanalytic criticism, postcolonial theory, feminist theory, and many others. These approaches offer different lenses through which to analyze and interpret literature, each shedding light on different aspects of the text and the cultural context in which it was produced.
Literature is intimately connected to history and philosophy. Historically, literature serves as a reflection of its time, offering insights into the social, political, and cultural conditions of the period in which it was written. It captures the beliefs, values, and concerns of society, providing a window into the past for future generations.
Philosophically, literature engages with fundamental questions about the nature of existence, morality, identity, and the human condition. Through narrative, imagery, and symbolism, literature explores complex philosophical concepts, inviting readers to contemplate existential dilemmas and ethical quandaries.
In response to your query, criticism, literature, history, and philosophy are interconnected disciplines that mutually enrich and inform one another. Criticism provides the tools for analyzing and interpreting literature, while literature serves as a primary source for understanding history and philosophy. Together, they contribute to our understanding of human culture, thought, and experience.
Question :.Briefly explain the inductive method with an illustration of Shakespeare's Hamlet's Grave Digger's scene. Briefly explain the deductive method with reference to an analogy to Music, Painting, rhythm, and pattern. Give examples of the outcomes of the deductive method. Refer to the Indian seasonal grid (in the blog).
Response:
The inductive method involves drawing conclusions based on specific observations or examples, leading to general principles or theories. In the context of Shakespeare's Hamlet, the Grave Digger's scene offers an illustration of the inductive method. In this scene, Hamlet encounters a gravedigger who is digging Ophelia's grave. Through their conversation, Hamlet observes the gravedigger's casual attitude towards death and the grave, leading him to reflect on the universality of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. From these specific observations, Hamlet contemplates broader themes such as the inevitability of death and the futility of human endeavors, demonstrating the inductive process of moving from particular instances to general insights about the human condition.
On the other hand, the deductive method involves starting with general principles or theories and applying them to specific cases to draw conclusions. An analogy to music, painting, rhythm, and pattern can help illustrate the deductive method. Just as a composer may start with a musical theory or concept and then compose a piece of music based on that theory, or a painter may begin with an artistic style or technique and create a painting using that framework, deductive reasoning involves applying overarching principles to individual instances.
For example, in literature, a critic might start with a theoretical framework, such as structuralism or postcolonial theory, and then analyze a specific text through that lens. They would deduce interpretations and meanings from the text based on the principles of the chosen theory. Similarly, in the Indian seasonal grid mentioned in the blog, deductive reasoning could be applied by starting with the overarching framework of the grid, which categorizes seasons and their associated attributes, and then applying it to specific instances or phenomena within Indian culture or nature to draw conclusions about seasonal patterns, agricultural practices, cultural rituals, and so on.
Mythos of Grid Indian Seasonal
Question : A poem in English from the archetypal approach and apply the Indian seasonal grid to the interpretation.
Response :
Here's a short English poem from an archetypal approach:
Title: "Eternal Dance" (this I have taken help of chatgpt)
In the garden of time, the flowers sway,
Their petals whisper secrets of the day.
Beneath the golden sun's warm embrace,
They dance in rhythms of time and space.
Through the cycles of birth and decay,
They tell the story of life's fleeting grace.
Each bloom a symbol of hope and strife,
In the eternal dance of death and life.
Now, let's apply the Indian seasonal grid to interpret this poem:
In the Indian seasonal grid, there are six seasons: Vasant (Spring), Grishma (Summer), Varsha (Monsoon), Sharad (Autumn), Hemant (Pre-winter), and Shishir (Winter). Each season is associated with specific attributes and symbolism.
In "Eternal Dance," the imagery of flowers swaying in a garden evokes the arrival of spring (Vasant), a season of renewal and rejuvenation. Spring is symbolized by blooming flowers, warm sunshine, and a sense of new beginnings. The poem's depiction of flowers whispering secrets and dancing in rhythms aligns with the vibrant energy and vitality of spring.
Furthermore, the mention of cycles of birth and decay reflects the cyclical nature of seasons, where life emerges and fades in a continuous cycle of renewal. This cyclical motif resonates with the Indian concept of time as a series of cycles rather than a linear progression.
Overall,
"Eternal Dance" can be interpreted through the lens of the Indian seasonal grid as a celebration of spring's vitality and the cyclical nature of life, where each season plays its part in the eternal dance of existence.
Assignment 107 : The Master and the Servant : Exploring the Symbolic Significance of the Pozzo - Lucky Relationship in Waiting For Godot
The Master and the Servant : Exploring the Symbolic Significance of the Pozzo - Lucky Relationship in Waiting For Godot
Table of Contents
Personal Information
Assignment Details
Introduction
Abstract
Keywords
Various Interpretations of Pozzo & Lucky as Symbols
One Way of Getting Through Life with Someone Else
A Metaphor of Society
Pozzo, the Egotist & Absolute Monarch
The Material & Spiritual Sides of Man; Contrasted Pairs
The Mutual Inter - dependence of Pozzo & Lucky
Mankind Versus Christ
Conclusion
Reference
Personal Information
Name : Reshma Yunusbhai Bilakhiya
Batch : M.A. Sem - 2 (2024)
Enrollment no : 5108230008
E - mail address : reshmabilakhiya21@gmail.com
Roll no: 23
Assignment Details :
Topic: The Master and the Servant : Exploring the Symbolic Significance of the Pozzo - Lucky Relationship in Waiting For Godot
Paper & Subject Code : 107 : The 20th Century Literature : From World War 2 to the End of the Century
Submitted to : Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English,
MKBU, Bhavnagar
Date of Submission : 25th April, 2024.
Abstract :
In Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot," the relationship between Pozzo and Lucky serves as a microcosm of broader existential themes. This paper explores the symbolic significance of their master-servant dynamic, analyzing its representation of power, oppression, and the cyclical nature of human existence.
Keywords :
Waiting for Godot, Samuel Beckett, Pozzo, Lucky, symbolism, master-servant relationship, power dynamics, oppression, existentialism
Introduction :
Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot" presents a world characterized by absurdity and existential uncertainty. Amidst this backdrop, the relationship between Pozzo and Lucky stands out as a microcosm of broader themes within the play. This paper seeks to explore the symbolic significance of their master-servant dynamic, examining how it reflects and reinforces existential concepts such as power, oppression, and the cyclical nature of human existence. Through a close analysis of Pozzo and Lucky's relationship, this study aims to shed light on the deeper meaning behind Beckett's exploration of the human condition.
Various Interpretations of Pozzo & Lucky as Symbols
Various Interpretations of the Pozzo - Lucky relationship and its significance have been offered by critics. According to other interpretations, Pozzo and Lucky symbolise the relationship between capital and labour, or between wealth and artist. Another view, which seems to be very far-fetched, is that this relationship has an autobiographical origin, Pozzo representing James Joyce and Lucky representing Samuel Beckett. One of the critics tells us that Pozzo is no other than Godot himself. According to this view, Godot is God; Pozzo is Godot, Pozzo therefore God; and since Pozzo is nothing but a tyrant and a slave-driver, so too is God. Another critic characters Pozzo as the God of the Old Testament, the tyrant-divinity in Act 1 and the New Testament God, injured, helpless, crucified, in Act 2. On the other extreme from this view is the opinion that Pozzo is a kind of anti-Godot. It has been said that Lucky may be Godot. Yet another view is that Lucky suggests the Biblical figure of Christ.
One Way of Getting Through Life with Someone Else
Thus we have almost as many interpretations as there are critics. One of the critics says that, while Pozzo and Lucky may be body and intellect, master and slave, capitalist and proletarian, coloniser and colonised, Cain and Abel, sadist and masochist, Joyce and Beckett, they represents essentially, and more simply, one way of getting through life with someone else, just as Vladimir and Estragon more sympathetically represent another way of doing so.
A Metaphor of Society
It is possible to treat Pozzo and Lucky as representatives of the ordinary world from which the two tramps are excluded. Pozzo and Lucky create a metaphor of society, not as it is but as the tramps might see it, with the social structure reduced to an essential distinction between master and slave. Pozzo appears all-powerful, dominating the stage by his gestures and his inflated language. By virtue of his capacity to enjoy sensual delights and his wealth, he reminds us of a feudal lord, self-consciously magnanimous in his disposal of time and clarity. His is a well-regulated world in contrast to the confusion of the tramps where everything is in flux. It was Lucky who gave Pozzo what refinement and culture Pozzo now possesses. But for Lucky, all Pozzo’s thoughts, and all his feelings would have been for common things. “Beauty, grace, truth of the first water”- these were originally all beyond Pozzo. But Lucky is now a puppet who obeys Pozzo’s commands. He dances, sings, recites, and thinks for Pozzo, and his personal life has been reduced to basic animal reflexes: he cries and he kicks. But once he was a better dancer and capable of giving his master moments of great illumination and joy; he was kind, helpful, entertaining, Pozzo’s good angel. But now he is “killing” Pozzo, or so Pozzo believes. Lucky’s thinking is now not the rationalist consolation which once it was, but a total scepticism which illuminates the agony beneath appearances. When he speaks he is Pozzo’s tormentor; he remind Pozzo of the reality which it is Pozzo’s earnest endeavour to avoid. This becomes clear in Lucky’s great speech which terrifies the hearers because it foretells the extinction of the world. The chane which overtakes Pozzo and Lucky in Act 2 may be treated as a comment on the decline of he master-slave society.
Pozzo,the Egotist and Absolute Monarch
There is another way of approaching this curious pair of characters. Perhaps, in the portrayal of Pozzo, Beckett has given us a caricature of God, the absolute monarch. Pozzo is the living symbol of the Establishment. He is an-egotist, full of self-love. He is fond of hearing his own voice and the ready flow of his rhetoric. The stool which Lucky carries for him is a kind of portable throne for monarch. Pozzo’s greatest concern is his dignity. He rebukes the tramps for asking him a question: “A moment ago you were calling me sir, in fear and trembling. Now you’re asking me question. No good will come of this!” Pozzo’s absolute mastery, his divinely delegated powers, must remain unchallenged. AS to his slave, Pozzo would like to get rid of him, but “the truth you can’t drive such creatures away. The best thing would to be to kill them.” One recognises here the tone of a super-lord. In Act 3, reduced to a pitiable condition, Pozzo still calls his servant “pig” and encourages Esteragon “to give him a taste of his boot, in the face and the privates as far as possible.” Although he himself cries for pity, Pozzo feeks no pity for anyone else. Praradoxically this grotesque man formulates the tragedy of man’s brief existence on this earth: “One day I went blind, one day we’ll go deaf, one day we were born, one day we shall die……They give birth astride of grave, the light gleams an instant, then it’s night once more.” In Act 1, Pozzo becomes furious on hearing Lucky’s offensive rhetoric. He tramples on Lucky’s hat and shouts triumphantly: “There an end to his thinking!” Tyranny is here firmly established. In Act 2 the master is blind, in the slave dump. The rope which links two is shorter, symbolism the increasing dependence of the master on the servant. Clearly Pozzo has not carried out his original intention of selling his slave. The two wretched creatures are still joined together, the result being a monstrous indivisible mass of humanity.
The Material & Spiritual Sides of Man; Contrasted Pairs
It has often been said that Pozzo and Lucky are one man. According to this view, they represent the duality of body and mind; they represent the relationship between the material and spuritual sides of man, with the intellect subordinate to the appetites of the body. Estragon and Vladimir have likewise been supposed to represent one man. If these assumptions are correct, the difference between the two pairs may be noted.The oneness of Pozzo and Lucky is degrading to both and is shown as harmful; the connection of the other two ia a warm, life-sustaining relationship. In fact, mere contact with Pozzo has a weakening effect on others. This shows the demoralising consequences of tyrannical rule. Pozzo and Lucky belong to a formal world and have an orthodox social relationship: dominating and being dominated. They are tied to each other not by their natures but by their external conditions. The slave is tied but the master is also tied because he must hold the rope. In Act 2, this the rope leading the blind. Vladimir and Estragon have a different relationship: informal and outside society; wanting to break away still anxiously returning to each other; a voluntary relationship but with binding natural ties. Thus there is a major contrast between the Pozzo-Lucky and the Estragon-Vladimir relationship. Pozzo and Lucky are complementary individuals, as are the other two; but the relationship between the first two men is on a more primitive level: Pozzo is the sadist master, Lucky the submissive slave.
The Mutual Inter - dependence of Pozzo & Lucky
Although Pozzo and Lucky present an obvious and sharp contrast to each other, they have one thing in common: they are both driven by a desperate attempt to evade panic which would grip them if they lost their belief in what Pozzo stands for. Pozzo lives by brief orders which he flings at Lucky. No other will than his own exists. Lucky, in a way, deserves his name because he has a master who organises his life for him, cruelly though he may do so. It becomes more and more evident in the course of the play that Lucky believes that his safety lies only within the pattern of a mutual sadomasochistic rlationship between himself and Pozzo. For this mutual fixation Lucky has sacrificed everything, even his soul and his creativeness. And he accepts his present abject misery and slavery as a matter which concerns nobody but Pozzo and himself. When Estragon tries to wipe away Lucky’s tears after Lucky has received a cruel reproach from Pozzo, Lucky kicks Estragon in the leg. It would seem that the relationship of master to slave is of unbreakable kind. The tyrant strives to make the victim totally dependent on him, whereas the victim sees the basis of his own security in the authority of the tyrant. The following opinion is also noteworthy: “The Pozzo-Lucky pair may be compared to the collective pseudo-ego. The two tramps, on the other hand, reveal features of the lost value hidden in those who have something above the average, an overplus for which there is no adequate outlet.”
Mankind Versus Christ
There is also the view that Pozzo represents mankind, and Lucky represents Christ. If this view is accepted, what takes place before the tramps is the re-acting of the Redemption. The tramps, of course, do not recognise it as such, find it unpleasant, and prefer to continue waiting for the mysterious Godot. Another possible interpretation, already indicated above, is that Pozzo and Lucky represent human life, Pozzo representing the physical aspect of the human personality and Lucky the spiritual, which is in time brutalised by the treatment it receives and is reduced to the incoherence represented by Lucky’s monologue. Pozzo himself in the course of the play turns blind, this perhaps being an indication of the transience of human power and dominant.
Conclusion :
In Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot," the relationship between Pozzo and Lucky serves as a microcosm of broader existential themes. Through the master-servant dynamic, Beckett explores the complexities of power, oppression, and the cyclical nature of human existence. Pozzo and Lucky's relationship symbolizes the interdependence and power struggles inherent in human interactions, with Pozzo representing authority and control, and Lucky embodying submission and servitude. Their dynamic reflects broader themes of power imbalance and the futile search for meaning in an absurd world. Ultimately, the Pozzo-Lucky relationship serves as a poignant commentary on the human condition, highlighting existential angst and the desperate search for purpose in a world devoid of meaning. As the characters wait for the elusive Godot, they are trapped in a cycle of dependency and servitude, mirroring the absurdity of the human experience. Through a close analysis of the Pozzo-Lucky relationship, we gain deeper insights into Beckett's exploration of existential themes and the futility of the human condition, making "Waiting for Godot" a powerful and timeless reflection on the nature of existence.
