Discuss and Evaluate the Role of Religion In the Formulation and Essay

Discuss and Evaluate the Role of Religion In the Formulation and Practice of Foreign Policy - Essay Example What are the potential for positive and negative outcomes of this? Do religious differences always result in war, or can differing countries unite to answer other needs? Religion is an important element in establishing identity, both for the individual, and nation states. However, sovereign states have a history of religious intolerance towards other religions, both within their domains, and with other nations. When you start making foreign policy based on religion, and particularly when it’s fuelled by religion based on absolute beliefs, you get some horrific results (Rappaport). The current differences in faiths becomes important when you consider that terms such as ‘Fundamentalist’ or ‘Crusaders’ are polemical terms which serve to label every member of that religious group as extremist and threatening: The term fundamentalism is used polemically to polarize the debate and eliminate the middle ground†¦little distinction is made among islamic tr aditionalists, neo traditionalists, radical and militant islamists, while liberal and reformist currents in Islam are ignored (Fundamentalism discourses: enemy images WAF).... Against Fundamentalisms) The 20th century demonstrated several clear examples of the difficulties posed by uniting religious belief with foreign policy, not least of all the Vatican's policy during World War II, which has been denounced as inadequate and even as actually favouring the Nazi's ( Manhattan, 171). There is also reference to "The conflicts between the Roman Church and the Freedoms of democracy" (Glenn Archer, quoted in Manhattan, 7). Sometimes the religious policies of a nation are in direct conflict with its own best interests, and the medieval histories of the Eastern European Bloc demonstrates: Constantly the battleground between the different Christian sects, and the mighty Muslim empire of the Ottoman's, Eastern Bloc states such as Yugoslavia, Romania and Hungary experienced not only external holy conflict, but internal as well. Religion is not just a state mechanism, but is also a personal belief of many World leaders, a fact which cannot be avoided when considering their foreign policy: Even in an ostensibly secular state the private religious convictions And concerns of foreign policy-makers can be crucial, even decisive Factors in shaping international relations (A. Rotter, quoted in Kirby, 3) These conflicts and difficulties can be demonstrated through three case studies. The first two shall concentrate upon religious conflicts between states within a certain time period: beginning with how foreign policy was affected by religious conflict during the reign of Henry VIII, and then considering how religion formed a part in the policies of the Cold War. This will culminate in a review of the religious troubles of the Eastern Bloc, looking at conflict in both the later middle ages and during the Bosnian War in the latter half of

Social Security Assignment Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Social Security Assignment - Research Paper Example The ongoing program is deemed to be insolvent by 2037 if no further additions are made to it. The problem with today’s ongoing plan is that it requires a great deal of money. As per the Washington Post report, with the passage of time the federal government will have to find additional money to cater to the needs of this plan. The present situation makes the United States unable to mobilize such a great amount by itself. So naturally, the government will be compelled either to borrowing or to raising the taxes because by the year 2027 the annual deficits of the US will have reached $200 million and by 2033, $300 million (â€Å"Whitehouse Social Security†). Even if the authorities raise the taxes to meet the expenses of the current plan, it will not be a suitable measure in the future as the costs also get increased and this will be greater than the revenue received from tax collection. In this regard, the present system of social security does not seem to be a permanent program. As Elrod reports in Senior Citizen Journal, by privatizing social security, the government puts the retirement money in the hands of the workers to invest in private retirement accounts. As a portion of their salary is retained through pay roll tax; and for this purpose it does not inflict any burden on the common people in the form of additional tax. According to Elrod, this is useful to the workers as they get a lump sum amount after retirement, and it can be invested to greater opportunities such as share market. People will have control over their personal accounts. As per the new plan, there will be no change for the existing system for people who were born before 1950. According to the new plan, employees have the opportunity to contribute towards a fund likewise thrift saving. Here the amount to be contributed by each person is decreased as he or she gets closer to the retiring age. The participants will not be allowed to access their personal accounts before they g et retired. The new plan seems to be odd when it comes to the wealth and income distribution. As for the high earning class, the new proposal is not a problem. In the US, the majority of wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few people. Majority of rich people do not receive any income from working to constitute their wealth; on the other hand, they have it from the property they own. As Domhoff points out, the upper class own 34.4% of the privately held wealth; the middle class including professionals, the managerial and small scale industrialists hold 50.5% of wealth, and at last the common people comprising the peasants, daily wagers, and salary workers own only 15% of wealth. It definitely shows that the 20% of the total population enjoys 85% of the total wealth of the nation. As the above argument maintains, the majority of the rich are not working under the public sector, social security is not a matter of concern for them. It is the lower middle class that earn income from working who need any further social security. If the working lower class is asked to set aside a portion of their monthly earning to contribute to the social security fund, it affects their living as they will find it difficult to meet the both ends. So, this new plan is going to affect none other than the lower and middle level working class. Providing social security to its subjects is the responsibility of the government. Government has to perform this function without exerting any extra burden on the

Primary Education The First Stage Of Compulsory Schooling Education Essay

Primary Education The First Stage Of Compulsory Schooling Education Essay Primary education is the first stage of compulsory schooling. The primary phase is split into key stages one and two. Key-Stage one is orchestrated for children 5-7 years of age. Key-Stage two covers the age range of 7-11 years of age. Following Key-Stage two children progress to secondary school and undertake Key-Stage three learning. Thus Primary education must prepare children for KS3, and beyond. Considering the diversity of the age range and ability range of children within the Primary phase, there are a number of theories about the purpose(s) of primary education and how they should be delivered to best suit children (toward Q10). However, all theories for best practice concur that children of primary school age are at a crucial stage of learning which can drastically affect their future learning and experiences. Thankfully the idea of primary school being a place where children are told stories and draw on their own with crayons as a transition to proper school is history. Primary education is now viewed as a valuable opportunity to teach children a number of complex skills which will form the foundations for a lifetime of future learning. The knowledge and skills taught in the early years of life will directly influence the childs success as an adult in a now multicultural society (Q18; affect of social influences). Thus, the thrust of primary education must be to create a rounded experience for all children, through a range of subjects, delivered in an enriched environment by a knowledgeable, dynamic teacher with an effective pedagogy (towards Q14). To begin this process, learning content and method of delivery of this must be appropriately designed for the individual child as part of a larger group. As with all activities, it is critical to gain and retain the interest of those involved to maximise the effectiveness of the activity. It is up to the teacher and team of staff to collaborate efficiently to deliver this successfully (toward Q6). The complex skills taught in primary education are delivered through three main areas; learning to read, learning to write (as part of literacy) and learning to manipulate numbers and all related content e.g. shape and space (numeracy). Since 2008 personal, social, health and economic (PHSE) has been added to the strategy for primary education. Through these topics, enhanced by interaction with peers and adults, children are able to learn the knowledge, attitudes and range of skills required to cope with the vast range of issues that they are likely to face throughout their maturation into and during adulthood. Of equal importance during this period is that children develop the schemas required to acquire skills and are able to recognise opportunities for development. Parents, teachers and other adults can provide the required guidance. By providing exceptional care throughout Primary education it is clear that potential can be maximised and utilised for the benefit of the individual and society (toward Q1). Therefore a programme for education is required. This was introduced as part of the Education Reform Act 1988 as the National Curriculum. The concept of key stages and educational objectives relating to these were also introduced. Furthermore the element of choice was also introduced to allow parents to specify their preferred choice of school for their child; league tables provided the necessary information for parents to choose. This inclusive approach signalled directly the importance of parental involvement and influence on the well-being, education and potential future attainment of their child. However, the introduction of league tables may have paradoxically shifted the focus from childrens attainment to getting results (following emphasis on exam results used as a measure of understanding of the prescribed Curriculum content). The prescription of the National Curriculum is under the direction and control of the Government advised by educational specialists guided by research into the ways in which children learn and what it is believed will be most beneficial throughout adulthood. The National Curriculum thus offers a list of the knowledge a child must gain. This approach provides consistency, guidance for educational institutions and a framework for future assessment of attainment. The content of the Curriculum is impacted by its two aims and four purposes. The first aim is that the school curriculum should aim to provide opportunities for all pupils to learn and achieve. (National Curriculum handbook). The second aim is the school curriculum should aim to promote pupils spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and prepare all pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life. These concepts clearly link closely with the invaluable objectives of the Every Child Matters policy. The four purposes of the National Curriculum are to establish an entitlement, to establish standards, to promote continuity and coherence and to promote public understanding (knowledge for Q15). The core statutory subjects of a national curriculum under the education act of 2002 are English, Maths, Science, Art and Design, Geography, History, ICT, Music and Physical Education. Additionally to this, all maintained schools have to teach Religious Education, which should reflect the Christian history of Great Britain. However, Religious Education should also consider practices and ideas of other religions represented in the UK; due to the movement of people, particularly to the UK, and the resultant shift in the majority, this teaching is and should be ever expanding. This is positive as Religious Education develops morals, spirituality and acceptance of others. Within a developing culture this acceptance and understanding should be encouraged, especially during the foundation-setting Primary phase. The school must be responsible through their ethos to highlight and harness the benefits of understanding and co-operation (toward Q2). For these reasons children should be encourag ed to mix with one another where possible. In September 2010, modern foreign languages will become an additional statutory requirement for delivery at Key Stage 2. The Department of children, schools and families suggests that children should also be taught personal, social and health education (PSHE). Ed Balls, of the previous Labour government confirmed that PSHE will become a statutory part of the national curriculum in 2011, but as we now have a new government this may change. PHSE can include a range of topics which aid children in their future lives. A number of beneficial topics can include drugs and alcohol education (DARE), emotional health and well-being, sex and relationship education, nutrition and physical activity, finance, safety and career education. Many of these topics are linked with the valuable outcomes of the Every Child Matters policy and allow the child to be healthy, to achieve and be safe. By learning about these topics, children can be encouraged to consider one another and the world that they live in (teaching toward Q19; promoting equality). Following this community cohesion can become possible, demonstrating clearl y the benefits of teaching PHSE. The notion of delivering PHSE through the Primary phase, rather than commencing during Secondary education, is a positive step as a preventative measure to avoid the current generation making the mistakes of previous generations. Whilst the National Curriculum sets out guidelines, each individual school is responsible for determining how they deliver the programmes of study for each of the subjects specified. The programme of study is prescribed for each subject and indicates what children should learn, as defined by the Education Act 1996, section 353b. This guide also provides a useful basis from which schedules can be planned. It is up to the teacher to decide upon the delivery to give maximum benefit to the pupils in their care. It is important for the school and teacher to deliver National Curriculum study programmes in imaginative ways (toward Q10) but not be constrained by the necessities of the Curriculum itself. Attainment targets define the expected standards of knowledge, skills and understanding for pupils in each key stage for each of the specified subjects and allows for appropriate assessment tools to be developed (http://curriculum.qcda.gov.uk/key-stages-1-and-2/Values-aims-and-purposes/about-the-primary-curriculum/index.aspx). As attainment is not static and isolated to specific intervals, it is necessary for the teacher to monitor the developing achievements of the individual child, the child in the context of their peer group and relative to descriptors of attainment-level. With this in mind, it would be appropriate to ensure that class sizes do not exceed the maximal number of pupils beyond which the teacher cannot effectively plan for, teach and assess. As suggested, it is important to continually assess the abilities of pupils, and therefore their progress (towards Q12) and to report this to all involved in the education of the child, especially parents. I believe that the benefit of parental involvement cannot be overestimated; parents have an established relationship with the child and are therefore ideally placed to provide extra or remedial learning at this critical phase of education (facilitating Q5). Whilst the stipulated content of a National Curriculum aims to cater for all, it cannot always achieve this, especially if those children who fall both above and below the average are not considered. Furthermore providing a list of required learning content may be restrictive upon the ability of teaching staff and schools to provide suitably varied lessons for the group(s) of learning needs they are responsible for. Following the change of Government in May we cannot say if the National Curriculum, or even the notion of one, will remain consistent due to the difference in the ideas of Government ideology. This is particularly dynamic if the Educational Minister and her advisors of educational best-practice change (knowledge for Q15; remain aware of curriculum). For example, the Rose review (commissioned by the leaving government) and it suggestions for educational best practice for KS 1 and 2 may become obsolete. The Rose review considered the National Curriculum and the ability of teachers to effectively deliver learning content to children. Furthermore the review considers whether the curriculum needs to be altered to achieve the aforementioned key objective; in other words, what should children learn and how should this be delivered to facilitate successful learning. The Rose review states that too much time is spent revising and practising for exams rather than making sure that children have a love for learning. Teaching staff must be responsible for ensuring that children enjoy Primary school, especially as this will encourage enjoyment of further educational phases. To do this, the new curriculum must understand the way that children learn and develop physically, intellectually, emotionally, socially, culturally, morally and spiritually. Furthermore Rose indicates that the current three core subjects (English, Maths and Science) should be replaced by four skills for learning and life (Literacy, Numeracy, ICT and Personal Development). The following areas of learning should feature within the Primary curriculum: understanding English, communication and languages mathematical understanding scientific and technological understanding historical, geographical and social understanding understanding physical development, health and well-being understanding the arts (Rose Review 2008 P17 Section 31) The above revised aims for the primary curriculum take influence from the values issued under the every child matters policy of the Education Act 2002. The new curriculum must also be well-planned and fun to ensure children have the opportunity to learn independently as well as be challenged and engage in practical activities (Q22). Giving children the opportunity to learn more about the world around them, through experiences in art, literature, and religious education and much more will facilitate this. The curriculum should allow many opportunities to use learned knowledge through cross curricular studies. With the Primary years in mind, the review recommends that high-quality play-based learning would benefit young children immensely as well as teaching parents the importance of play and read to/with their child (Q5 Q30). It is also critical that opportunities for spoken communication are taken to maximise the childs ability to learn to read and write. Phonics sessions will further aid development in this critical area. Encouraging use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) is important to allow children to use a number of the tools often needed to find employment and be financially healthy in todays technologically advanced society. Generally, the review pronounces that there needs to be more continuity through the stages of learning e.g. from EYFS to Key stage one and beyond to maintain success; the DCSF should give primary schools one extra in that day in 2010 to train/understand the new curriculum and transition between key stages. As stated by Rose, the curriculum should aim to teach pupils how to learn as well as the learning content. Having outstanding teachers in any education centre is crucial for pupils success here. Therefore, it is critical to consider ways that teachers can improve their pedagogy to deliver the required content (in whatever form it takes), for the benefit of the children in their class (toward Q10). Significantly, the review also suggests that it may be appropriate to restructure Key Stage 1 to include the Early Years Foundation Stage i.e. begin schooling and reap the rewards as early as possible, especially if parental involvement is successfully encouraged. Another research based review of the Curriculum, and ways to realise successful learning, is provided by the Cambridge report. The report suggests that a new primary curriculum be introduced which is broad, deep, balanced and offers high standards in all subjects; by separating literacy and numeracy they are afforded a higher level of emphasis and importance. Furthermore, new aims and values should be adopted within modern primary education. The 12 aims of the report focus on: The individual Well-being including mental, emotional and physical welfare (in line with Every Child Matters) Ensuring children have a thirst for engagement in their learning Empowering children with knowledge to meet and be adaptive to the changing challenges of the world Autonomy to promote aspirational thought (satisfying Q1) Self, others and the wider world Promote self-respect, respect for others, respect for diversity and difference as well as acceptance of others ideas and values (awareness for Q19, satisfying Q25) Promoting interdependence to develop sustainable positive relationships. Empowering local, national and global citizenship, encouraging children to make decisions in the world around them e.g. school council, as well as knowing about human rights, conflict resolution and social justice. Celebrating culture and community; schools should strive to become the centre of the community life and culture. Learning, knowing and doing Exploring, knowing, understanding and making sense, giving children the opportunity to actively experience the world around them (towards Q25). Fostering skills to make sure that pupils have the skills which learning, employment and rewarding life depend on. This includes all customary subjects in the curriculum as well as communication, creativity, intervention, problem solving, critical practice and human relations. Exciting imagination, giving children the opportunity to extend their knowledge outside the limits of their experiences. Enacting dialogue, to help children understand the need for communication and collaboration between teacher and pupils, and among pupil whilst becoming aware that knowledge is not just given but negotiated and recreated. This form of dialogue is central to effective pedagogy (facilitating Q2). It is highlighted that language, literacy and oracy (the capacity to express oneself in and understand speech) are critical to accomplishing these aims, as well as allowing aims to drive rather than follow the curriculum. Significantly, the report advocates extending the foundation stage to the age of six. Therefore the primary phase would include children 6-11 years of age, eliminating key stages one and two. Extending the foundation stage to 6 years old gives children the opportunity to develop personally, and learn to interact, before they embark on a journey harvesting knowledge. This can only work if there is the correct cooperation, communication and cohesion between foundation stage and the primary phase and their curricula (working toward Q32; development of effective team practice). This must be embraced by the teacher with pedagogy that is centred on personal accountability for effective teaching. This is obviously aided by providing adequate space, equipment and resources to ensure that pupils EYFS education provides solid foundations for the future. To aid the process it is imperative to ensure that disadvantaged and vulnerable children are given the help they need swiftly and successfully. To begin this, eradicating child poverty must be prioritised. Equally, opportunities must be provided for pupils with SEN, EAL or disability to progress to the same degree as their peers (Q19). Based on continuing research, the new Government has released a white paper for reform of the education system and the curriculum. The paper reflects much of the aforementioned, noting that the most important factor upon attainment is the quality of teaching/teachers. In order to help schools and their staff to deliver high quality teaching, the bureaucratic burden must be removed to allow focus on what is necessary for the children in their care. This burden is largely caused by the restrictive nature of the current Curriculum and the focus upon the attainment of qualifications which have the highest value in performance tables; often Primary schools over-rehearse teaching for the test (Q12, understand the value of assessment). I have experienced this with year 6 pupils preparing for SATs I felt that other subjects had been put aside to make way for the tests. The enjoyment of learning had been forgotten because of the pressures of ensuring each child passed. It was necessary to teach the children how to interpret and understand the questions rather suggesting that the assessment method may be unreliable. There appears to be a disparity between assessment, curriculum and the prescribed method of teaching i.e. utilising practical activities does not seem to match the way the children are tested. Furthermore, the National Curriculum should be tightened to contain less non-essential knowledge, especially in core subjects. By reducing the prescribed content and giving back decision making power to the school (about what, and more importantly how, to teach) it will be possible for children to gain the knowledge they to reflect the high standards expected of children in other nations. In order to improve, schools must be freed from compliance with Government initiatives to become self-improving. To aid this programme, schools should have access to regional league tables to identify and seek guidance from those schools from which they can learn (working toward Q5). In conclusion, Primary education must be grounded upon the needs of children as individuals. From this, guidelines for the content to be taught can be established. It is important that whilst the value of these guidelines is embraced, they do not become restrictive upon the imaginative element of pedagogy, allowing teaching staff to cater for all children as unique and valuable individuals. In doing so, children can learn how to be healthy, stay safe, enjoy and achieve and in doing so allow the child to make a positive contribution and achieve economic-well-being which are crucial to acceptance of the diverse culture we live in. Furthermore with guidance the child/growing adult will be free to develop social understanding/sensitivity to behave appropriately with others in numerous and changing social situations (Q1, Q19 and Q25). Adaptability and accountability of the teachers who mould young minds are paramount to childrens on-going success. As part of this group, I must strive to develop a pedagogy and effective relations with other members of the school which allows me to deliver teaching which enables children to maximise their potential (Q14, Q6, Q1). To continue to deliver this I must continue to embrace my desire for Continuous Professional Development (Q9).

Dantes Inferno :: essays research papers

The Divine Comedy was a key element to the development of European literature. By writing the epic style poem in the vernacular, he enabled all people of general literacy (ie, the commoner) with the liberty to read his work of art. This was such a landmark event because scholars of the past had always written in Latin including two of the most influential people in his life, the epic poets Virgil and Homer. Latin was the language of the Roman Empire and the Catholic Church therefore no one ever thought Dante’s use of the vernacular was capable of such poetic expression. From a mere literal perspective, The Divine Comedy can then be viewed as a pioneer in the defiance of Catholicism. Through the mere title â€Å"The Divine Comedy†, one can further unearth many significant aspects of the poem. A true comedy refers to two classical modes of composition. The tragedy was the first of these styles where the plot flowed from a high and pleasant beginning to an extremely low and destructive conclusion. The second technique is a classic comedy where the plot elevates from depressing beginning to an elevated and triumphant ending. In canto 1 it describes the 1st part of the journey vividly crossing the mtn. He keeps falling and cant quite make it. When the book ends Dante has surpassed a great deal and had learned a lot from his journey.Dante’s work is not solely dependent on either of the two styles rather it incorporates aspects of both approaches. The plot of The Inferno mirrors a classic comedy for it progresses from the horrors of Hell to the joys of Heaven, nevertheless it is constantly presenting the reader with individual situations of tragedy. EX-alive b4 jesus(virgil,limbo),suicides†¦those who are good, gays. The Divine Comedy is a truly universal work for it deals with the most significant question of humanity, the existence of an afterlife and the consequences of our lives on Earth. His convo w Virgil, Dante asks why we are here. this Dante was so confident in his abilities as a poet that he attempted to answer such questions through the voice of the vernacular.

Macbeth vs. Henry V Essay

Shakespeare’s play Macbeth shows the roots of all evil, our own human nature. The play is centered on the coexistence of good and evil. Macbeth, unlike any other Shakespeare play has the protagonist convert to evil. In the beginning of the play, Macbeth is shown as a hero in the Scottish army, that is ironic because Macbeth defeats a traitor and he himself becomes one later. Macbeth knows his place in the world. He is fully capable of distinguishing between right and wrong. Macbeth purposely disregards his own moral judgment to rise to power which is again ironic and goes against his own beliefs. Macbeth stands as a symbol for Satan’s sin of ambition. Like Satan, Macbeth’s thirst for power and ambition drives him to commit evil.Contrary to the theory of supernatural forces he is responsible for his own actions. The Three Witches and Lady Macbeth were only influencing factors in Macbeth’s demise. Macbeth was pressured to do a horrible deed which was driven by evil. The beginning of the evil was rooted in his wife and the witch’s but quickly spread into his mind and heart. The Three played a part in predicting the evilness of Macbeth which is known as the prophecy and Macbeth receives it from them. After receiving this prophecy, Macbeth starts to transform into an evil man who will not let anything stand in his way. For instance, when Macbeth is questioning whether or not he should murder Duncan, Lady Macbeth fools Macbeth into thinking about how any real man would commit the murder. She quotes â€Å"What beast was’t/ then, / that made you break this enterprise to me? / When you durst do it, then you were a man; / and to be more than what you were, you would/ be so much more the man† (Act 1 scene vii lines 53-58).she sees the opportunity to kill Duncan and make Macbeth king. She knows Macbeth’s ambitions, but says he lacks the ruthlessness, and although Macbeth will take an opportunity, he wants to earn his honours honestly. He also knows the murder would be wrong and he would end up paying for it. Macbeth makes a firm statement saying that â€Å"We will proceed no further in this business†(I.vii.32). But after speaking with Lady Macbeth he counter d ecides and proclaims, â€Å"I am settled, and bend up/Each corporal agent to this terrible feat†. Macbeth now proclaims himself king, fore-filling his ambition. Macbeth’s guilt is recognized after the killing of the king; when he is unable to answer himself. Macbeth’s final words in this scene tell us he has committed himself to the path of evil. â€Å"I am in blood, stepped in so far that, should I wade no more, returning was as  tedious as go o’er.† He acknowledges his torturous pain and knows there is no way of stopping it. He has ruined his life forever. Macbeth now doesn’t have a place among the others. He became enraged as he knew that that was true but later accepted it by going to meet with his own evil kind, the witches. Macbeth becomes ruthless and kills at will without feeling guilt. He is now a tyrant, ruling with fear until the bitter end. The thought that one can use language, rather than the conventional brute strength exemplified by Hercules and Beowulf, to achieve a beneficial outcome can be supported by Henry’s character in William Shakespeare’s Henry V. King Henry V assumes his role as king after the death of his father, Henry IV. Prior to ascending the throne, Harry, as his friends call him, was known for his debauchery. Harry was an immature prince, but as the King of England, he suddenly becomes mature and wise. Henry’s bishops convince him of his right and duty to acquire the throne of France. Soon, Britain is preparing for war and fully supporting their king in his pursuit of the French crown. Henry’s powerful words prove his ability to rouse his troops and frighten the enemy. Unlike more traditional heroes, Henry’s heroism is not shown in battle, but rather before the battle. Because Henry is able to put fear into the enemy with his threatening messages, the opposing army may not fight as well as one might expect. As seen at Harfleur, the governor surrenders to save the lives of the citizens.The speech that Henry makes demonstrates Henry’s clever tactics with his enemies. The king does this so that the governor will surrender and Henry can conquer Harfleur without a bloody battle. Although his speech sounds menacing, a quality not found in the characteristics of a hero, it is only a tactic Henry uses to achieve the outcome he wants. Henry’s reluctance to make good on his promise of this massacre is proven when he states, â€Å"use mercy to them all† (III.3. 54). Henry is not the monster he appears to be; instead, he is a leader using any method he can to gain land while keeping his troops out of harm’s way. At the final Battle of Agincourt, Henry’s ragged army expresses concern about their odds against the French; the British are outnumbered five to one. Henry’s Cousin Westmoreland. Henry, being the talented rhetorician that he is, soothes the army’s fears by delivering the inspirational speech: â€Å"[†¦] If we are marked to die, we are now To do our country loss; and if to live,  The fewer men, the greater share of honor. [†¦]But if it be a sin to covet honor, I am the most offending soul alive.† (IV.3. 21-30). Henry explains that there is a certain amount of honor to go around once the British defeat the French. It is fortunate of those soldiers that are at the battle that they do not have to share that honor with men who are fearful and therefore unworthy of honor. Henry says that honor is most important to him and that it should also be important to his army. The soldiers, feeling a renewed sense of purpose, will go into battle and claim that honor – not just for their king, but for England as well Henry explains what the British do Will stand a-tiptoe when this day is named this day, and comes safe home, on this day will be with them for the rest of their lives: He that outlives And rouse him at the name of Crispian [†¦ ]The he will strip his sleeve and show his scars, [And say, ‘These wounds I had on Crispian’s Day.’]†¦. (IV.3. 42-52). What feats he did that day.† Henry somewhat shows his softer side by expressing concern for his troops. Henry tells them he knows some will die, but those who survive will be well respected for the rest of their lives. With the reward of greatness being dangled in front of him, a speech like this can sway even the most fearful soldier into becoming the fiercest fighter. It can be argued that Henry is not a hero at all because he is fighting a meaningless war and that lives are being lost for no reason. While that might be true in one’s opinion, Henry’s opinion is quite different. Henry believes this war is for the greater good. If the British win the war, they gain land and Henry attains the crown of France he believes he deserves. Henry and the British people believe this war is justified; they cannot be faulted for doing what they believe in. Henry satisfies the qualities in the definition of a hero in using his masterful rhetoric. Henry has fought an impossible war against the French. In the final battle, the British were greatly outnumbered, but managed to escape with minimal casualties. The French, however, were not as fortunate and lost a total of ten thousand. This embarrassing defeat of the French proves just how effective Henry’s speech was in improving the morale of his doubtful army. Henry’s coldness and ruthlessness are masks that hide a man who would do anything to protect his countrymen. He uses scare tactics in his rhetoric to belittle the enemy while at the same time inspiring his men.  Remember, the definition of a hero states that bravery and firmness in any course of action qualifies one for the classification as a hero. Henry’s bravery and firmness are represented in his words, rather than his sword, therefore proving him to be a rhetorical hero. Of the two heroes Henry the V and Macbeth the more intelligent and ruthless is Henry because Macbeth was always cautious about making his decisions and needed the help[ of his wife who played the leading role in taking decisions be it to murder someone or to plot plans to get the throne. She was the more stronger person therefore she took the decisions as to what to do. Henry on the other hand did everything on his own and never liked the interference of anyone in his plotting.

Echoes of Heaven Essay

The world today seems to be going further and further from Christian Values. Denominations are arising against each other time after time. We no longer hear the proper preaching of the gospel because preachers prepare their sessions to suit the audience and therefore a lot of truth is left uncovered. A Christian who performs and leads a true Christian life seems very outdated. There are rumors of wars everywhere in the world today. People seem to rely on technology much more than on God. I am a born again Christian, I have been a Christian since I was born but there is a huge difference in my life after I accepted Jesus Christ. I have received tangible breakthroughs and therefore when I say so much truth is left uncovered in today’s churches I do it with reference to my personal experience. Sometimes suffering comes our way because God wants to show us our weakness without Him. We must rely on Him and not on our own understanding. I have observed Muslim practices closely and they are more devoted to their religion and believes than Christians! Charles I agree that God’s Love is better than Life Itself and would very much want to know where to get the book.

The Four Seasons Essays

The Four Seasons Essays The Four Seasons Essay The Four Seasons Essay Look at the structure of each poem as well as its use of language, and show how the poems not only describe the seasons but also convey its mood. As you write indicate your response to the words and ideas in the poems, and at the end say which poem you prefer, giving your reasons. I am going to tell you about three different poems I have chosen which I feel best portray the seasons. I have chosen Spring by G. M Hopkins, To Autumn by John Keats and Skating from The Prelude by William Wordsworth. The poem Spring by G. M Hopkins is a very happy and joyful poem and full of life. In the very first line, Hopkins refers to Spring as the most attractive season of them all, telling us: Nothing is so beautiful as Spring (Line 1). He carries on creating a buoyant and cheerful atmosphere by using words and phrases such as the alliterative phrases long and lovely and lush (Line 2) and With richness, the racing lambs too have fair their fling (Line 8). In the first stanza, Hopkins uses imagery with phrases such as weeds in wheels (Line 2) and The glassy pear tree leaves and blooms (Line 6), which gives the reader pictures of Springtime. The image of The descending blue; that blue is all in a rush (Line 7), gives the impression of being wrapped in a mixture of happy feelings and the promise of summer to come. The poem is very continuous and uses many enjambments so that the poem can be kept at a fast flowing speed for the reader. For example Through the echoing timbre does so rinse and wring / The ear, it strikes like lighting to hear him sing (Line 4 / 5). When Hopkins starts his second verse he writes this alliterative question What is all this juice and all this joy? (Line 9). This can be interpreted as the juice being all the new life of both animals and plants, thrushs eggs (Line 3) and racing lambs (Line 8), and the joy is in being able to see all these events happen and being part of the experience. Hopkins uses the Garden of Eden to talk about the newness and innocence of this season. He writes In Eden garden Have, get, before it cloy, / Before it cloud, Christ, lord and sour with sinning / Innocent Minds and Mayday in girl and boy (Line 11 / 12 / 13), suggesting that Spring has a purity that the later seasons lack. He supports the use of springs innocence by using the maids child towards the end of the play Most, O maids child, thy choice and worthy the winning. The Autumn Poem by John Keats is a very famous poem, written in 1819, two years before he died. The poem is written in three stanzas and he has written the poem so that at the beginning it is describing the start of autumn, progressing through the poem until autumn is turning into winter. Keats begins the poem with alliterative phrases like mists of mellow fruitfulness (Line 1), using soft consonants and extended vowels to give an atmosphere of relaxation and calmness. He uses the metaphor Close blossom-friend of the maturing sun (Line 2), to produce an image of fruitfulness and fertility. The phrase Conspiring with him how to load and bless (Line 3) makes it seem like Autumn and the Sun are human and almost God-like. He talks about all the fruit being as ripe as they are ever going to be, all the way to the core (Line 6) while the trees bend with apples (Line 5). He talks about the animals and especially the bees and says And still more, later flowers for the bees, / until they think warm days will never cease (Line 9 / 10). Keats is saying that the bees are not aware that winter is coming so they stay out still looking for more flowers. In the second stanza he talks about the main part of autumn, describing autumn as if it was a person, starting the stanza with Who hath not seen thee oft amid thy store? (Line 12). He gives the reader many images of autumn being a restful time, slowing down as winter approaches, using phrases such as sitting careless on a granary floor (Line 14) and on a half reapd furrow sound asleep (Line 16). He uses many restful alliterative words such as winnowing wind (Line 15) and the phrase Thou watchest the last oozing hours by hours (Line 22) also feels like life is slowing down. Even though he talks about this time being easy and lazy it is a very difficult and busy time for farmers, however this is not stated in the poem. Keats writes what is idealistic for him. He has again used lots of long vowels to create heaviness and slowness in the poem with phrases such as Drowsed with the fume of poppies (Line 17) to suggest sleepiness. In the final stanza he talks about the end of autumn and the beginning of winter, talking about regret, where are the songs of Spring? (Line 23). Keats also gives the reader images of the autumn evenings, soft-dying day (Line 25) and also rosy hue (Line 26) which means the setting sun, which is in contrast to the mature sun of the first stanza. Keats describes images of death using words and phrases such as mourn (Line 27), sinking (Line 29) and also the light wind lives or dies (Line 29) because it is the end of the summer. He uses many musical terms throughout the last stanza, such as wailful choir (Line 27), full-grown lambs loud bleat from hilly bourn (Line 30), hedge crickets sing (Line 31) and now with treble soft / The red-breast whistles (Line 31 / 32). They are all however very soft sounds, unlike Hopkins Spring which was all bustling and noisy. Keats describes a robin in the poem which suggests images of the forthcoming winter, and he talks about full-grown lambs, which suggests that the cycle of the year from when they were born in spring to their full grown state in autumn is complete. In general, throughout the poem he uses few full stops making very extended sentences. This keeps the poem very lethargic, lazy and restful. The pace is kept very slow and he does this by using many caesurae.