Themes In Once And Future King Essay Example For Students

Themes In Once And Future King Essay T. H. Whites The Once and Future King is one of the most complete and unique portrayals of the immortal legend of King Arthur. Though it has been in print for less than half a century, it has already been declared a classic by many, and is often referred to as the bible of Arthurian legend. White recreates the epic saga of King Arthur, from his childhood education and experiences until his very death, in a truly insightful and new way. This is not, however, the first complete novel of Arthurs life. In the fifteenth century, Sir Thomas Malory wrote Morte dArthur, the first complete tale of Arthurs life. Since then, a countless number of books have been written on the subject, yet none can compare to The Once and Future King. It has easily become the most popular of all the Arthurian novels as it is loved by both children and adults. Though similar in many ways to other works of the same subject, such as Malorys, White gives new details, meanings, and insightful modernization to the st ory, giving it an earthy quality which the reader can identify with. Whites rendering of the Arthurian legend differs from the traditional versions in that he includes contemporary knowledge and concepts, adds new stories and characters to the legend, and provides new perspectives by probing deeper into the existing tales. We will write a custom essay on Themes In Once And Future King specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now AnachronismIt is the contemporary tone in The Once and Future King, which gives the novel its present-day feeling. This helps the reader to relate to the story, rather than placing it in strictly within the context of the Arthurian period. For example, early in the novel Eton College is referred to, which White then points out was not founded until 1440, but the place was nevertheless of the same sort(4). Another example of anachronism can be found during a discussion between Merlyn and Wart, when Merlyn exclaims Castor and Pollux blow me to Bermuda! (86). During the days of Arthur, Bermuda was an unknown place, and would not be discovered until the fifteenth century. Though these references have no true significance to the plot of the story, White uses anachronism as a device to aid the reader in association with the context. And, as in other of Whites novels, the authors presence is apparent (Fries 260), giving the feeling of an oral storytelling. These almost too frequent historic al tangents are designed to underline the anachronism of the teller (Fries 260). White also uses anachronism to convey a more penetrating idea; relating the life of Arthur to modern society. Whites novel constitutes his search for answers to the problems of the modern world. When Merlyn and Wart are discussing knighthood, Wart expresses his desire to encounter all the evil in the world so that if I conquered there would be none left. Merlyn then insightfully replies that that would be extremely presumptuous, and he would be conquered for it (184). In this, White is conveying the notion that society cannot be governed by might alone. Stephen Dunn exposes the concept that Whites world is still the world as we, unfortunately, know it (367). Merlyns relations of contemporary British fox hunting to medieval war make this evident. Merlyn educates Wart to expose him to faults present in society so that he may correct them when he becomes king. These faults are still present in todays society, which is precisely the point White is making. T. H. Whites The Once and Future King is one of the most complete and unique portrayals of the immortal legend of King Arthur. Though it has been in print for less than half a century, it has already been declared a classic by many, and is often referred to as the bible of Arthurian legend. White recreates the epic saga of King Arthur, from his childhood education and experiences until his very death, in a truly insightful and new way. This is not, however, the first complete novel of Arthurs life. In the fifteenth century, Sir Thomas Malory wrote Morte dArthur, the first complete tale of Arthurs life. Since then, a countless number of books have been written on the subject, yet none can compare to The Once and Future King. It has easily become the most popular of all the Arthurian novels, as both children and adults love it. Though similar in many ways to other works of the same subject, such as Malorys, White gives new details, meanings, and insightful modernization to the story, g iving it an earthy quality, which the reader can identify with. Whites rendering of the Arthurian legend differs from the traditional versions in that he includes contemporary knowledge and concepts, adds new stories and characters to the legend, and provides new perspectives by probing deeper into the existing tales. .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 , .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .postImageUrl , .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 , .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:hover , .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:visited , .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:active { border:0!important; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:active , .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50 .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ud95dfc6251a2a46d267bd7d275351c50:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Parts of a Holy Mass EssayAnachronismIt is the contemporary tone in The Once and Future King, which gives the novel its present-day feeling. This helps the reader to relate to the story, rather than placing it in strictly within the context of the Arthurian period. For example, early in the novel Eton College is referred to, which White then points out was not founded until 1440, but the place was nevertheless of the same sort(4). Another example of anachronism can be found during a discussion between Merlyn and Wart, when Merlyn exclaims Castor and Pollux blow me to Bermuda! (86). During the days of Arthur, Bermuda was an unknown place, and would not be discovered until t he fifteenth century. Though these references have no true significance to the plot of the story, White uses anachronism as a device to aid the reader in association with the context. And, as in other of Whites novels, the authors presence is apparent (Fries 260), giving the feeling of an oral storytelling. These almost too frequent historical tangents are designed to underline the anachronism of the teller (Fries 260). White also uses anachronism to convey a more penetrating idea; relating the life of Arthur to modern society. Whites novel constitutes his search for answers to the problems of the modern world. When Merlyn and Wart are discussing knighthood, Wart expresses his desire to encounter all the evil in the world so that if I conquered there would be none left. Merlyn then insightfully replies that that would be extremely presumptuous, and he would be conquered for it (184). In this, White is conveying the notion that society cannot be governed by might alone. Stephen Dunn exposes the concept that Whites world is still the world as we, unfortunately, know it (367). This is made evident by Merlyns relations of contemporary British fox hunting to medieval war. Merlyn educates Wart to expose him to faults present in society so that he may correct them when he becomes king. These faults are still present in todays society, which is precisely the point White is making. T. H. White also conquers the task of avoiding a monotonous recreation of the Arthurian legend by adding new and unique characters and stories in his novel. The addition of King Pellinore for example is unique to The Once and Future King. When White first introduces Pellinore, he is fumbling with his glasses, falls off his horse to search for them visor shutting in the process, and exclaimed Oh, dear!' (16). Pellinore appears throughout the novel at the traditional medieval events and plays a key role in Warts education. Sirol Hugh-Jones credits White with saying that he has developed a love affair with King Pellinorethe only addition to Malory (ix). White creates the character of King Pellinore to exhibit the farce of medieval custom, much as Miguel de Cervantes does with Don Quixote, as well as creating comic relief. White tries to eliminate the problem of strict reverence by adding characters such as Pellinore. In addition to new characters, White adds new adventures as well. In Arthurian novels of the past, Warts education was not a prominent event. However, as C. M. Adderly writes, education is the theme which most clearly gives The Once and Future King its structure (55). Warts education gives Whites novel an overlay in theme of the advancement of the human nature. Merlyn tells Wart the best thing for being sad is to learn something (185). The best thing for being sad, replied Merlyn, beginning to puff and blow, is to learn something. Thats the only thing that never fails. You may grow old and trembling in your anatomies, you may lie awake at night listening to the disorder of your veins, you may miss your only love, you may see the world about you devastated by evil lunatics, or know your honour trampled in the sewers of baser minds. There is only one thing for it then to learn. Learn why the world wags and what wags it. That is the only thing, which the mind can never exhaust, never alienate, and never be tortured by, never fear or distrust, and never dream of regretting. Learning is the only thing for you. Look what a lot of things there are to learn.White puts a great deal of emphasis on the education of Wart because it is through this that the character of Arthur, along with his personality, morals, and virtue are defined. This stress of education in The Once and Future King is unique, and sets it apart from the t raditional Arthurian legend. .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c , .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .postImageUrl , .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c , .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:hover , .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:visited , .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:active { border:0!important; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:active , .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ua9e5ed35fad336b366837b5cc008219c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: autism EssayThe Once and Future King also varies from the traditional tale by probing deeper into the story, beyond the tradition, adding new perspectives and outlooks. Before, the legend of King Arthur was told more as a fairy tale. J. R. Cameron writes White has not adopted the stereotypical Middle Ages of most fiction (447). White uses the Arthurian legend to illustrate a historical pride of England, as well as a view of the progression of Aristotelian society. Also, White uses this view to expose faults in contemporary society. The past stories of Arthur had glorified him almost to the point of making him immortal. But White, when telling of the death of Arthur, writes that the fate of this man was less than a drop, although it was a sparkling one, in the great blue motion of the sunlit sea (677). White sees that the Arthurian legend is not so much the glorification of one man, but the basis and backbone of an entire country. White also redevelops and expands the characters of the Arthurian legend, giving the novel more consistency and allowing his readers to relate to these characters. White exposes the emotions and personalities of his characters, rather than just telling of their actions. White displays the characters emotions and feelings in order for them to be acceptable to the twentieth century reader (Cameron 447). After Wart pulls the sword from the anvil in the churchyard, making him the king of England, he is regarded with much reverence by his companions and even his family. Observing this, he declares Oh, dear, I wish I had never seen that filthy sword at all. After this the Wart also burst into tears (210). White shows the emotions and feelings of Wart and gives a sense of reality to this character. J. R. Cameron writes that Malory made no attempt to analyze the characters; Tennyson robbed his characters of most of their reality (447). White, however, gave much depth and realness to his char acters, setting The Once and Future King apart from other versions of the Arthurian legend. HumorAnother important addition by White to the legend of Arthur is that of humor. The Arthurian legend has been told with so much reverence and importance for many centuries. White, however, adds humor to the story, giving his novel versatility. Stephen Dunn writes White said that humor was put in to make the moral and philosophical pillwhich, in all conscience, is a fairly bitter oneslide down more easily (365). White writes of the confrontation between King Pellinore and Sir Grummore Grummersom in an extremely humorous manner. During the course of their duel, the two constantly argue and bicker like children, They stood opposite each other for about half an hour, and walloped each other on the helm (63). Through this, White exposes the humor in chivalric life and gives the story a comedic quality. White also utilizes humor in the characterization of Merlyn. Merlyn, who is regarded in the novel as a very wise and intelligent person, is introduced as a disorganized, short-tempered old man. When Wart first encounters Merlyn, the great magician tries to conjure up a pencil and piece of paper, and humorously fails repeatedly. As a result of his frustration, he flies into a passion in which he said by-our-lady quite often (28). This depiction of Merlyn shows his amusing and funny personality, which White exposes throughout the novel. The frequent use of comedy gives Whites novel a unique twist which cannot be found in the traditional versions of the story. When T. H. White decided to write The Once and Future King, he realized that his task would be an ambitious one. He faced the challenge of telling a tale which has been present for centuries, in a new way which would make it of interest to readers. His recreation of the Arthurian legend more than lives up to that challenge. The addition of new themes, anachronism, characters such as King Pellinore, and new adventures gives the novel a unique flair without straying too far from the traditional legend. The deeper interpretations of the characters and events in the story provide for a truth and authenticity not to be found in similar works, and the sense of humor gives Whites novel an individual touch. T. H. Whites The Once and Future King is one of the best retellings of the Arthurian legend, and his additions to the tale create an invigorating and entertaining combination, ranking it among the most popular and best read of all.

uuggfds Essays

uuggfds Essays uuggfds Essay uuggfds Essay Ram Mohammed Singh Azad (Udham Singh) Born 26 December 1899 Sunam, Punjab, British India Died 31 July 1940 (aged 40) Pentonville Prison, United Kingdom Organization Ghadar Party, Hindustan Socialist Republican Association,lndian Workers Association Political movement Indian Independence movement Religion Sikh Mohammed was an Indian revolutionary, best known for assassinating Michael ODwyer in March 1940 in what has been described as an avenging of the Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre. His name was Udhan Singh but he changed it to Ram Mohammad Singh Azad, symbolising the equality of all faith and of the three major religions of India: Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism. Singh is considered one of the best-known revolutionaries of the Indian independence struggle; he is also sometimes referred to as Shaheed-I-Azam Sardar Udham Singh (the expression Shaheed-i- Azam, Urdu: 3-45, means the great martyr). Bhagat Singh and Singh along with Chandrasekhar Azad,RaJguru and Sukhdev, were among the most famous revolutionaries in the first half of 20th-century India. For their actions, the British government labelled these men as Indias earliest Marxists. He was born in Shahpur Kalan village in Sunam Tehsil in Sangrur district of Punjab, India. He was born to a Sikh farming family headed by Sardar Tehal Singh Jammu (known as Chuhar Singh before taking the Amrit). Sardar Tehal Singh was at that time working as a watchman on a railway crossing in the village of Upalli. Singhs mother died in 1901. His father followed in 1907. With the help of Bhai Kishan Singh Ragi, both Sher Singh and his elder brother, Mukta Singh, were taken in by the Central Khalsa Orphanage Putlighar in Amritsar on 24 October 1907. They were administered the Sikh initiatory rites at theorphanage and received new names: Sher Singh became Udham Singh, and Mukta Singh became Sadhu Singh. Sadhu Singh died in 1917, which came as a great shock to his brother. While at orphanage, Singh was trained in various arts and crafts. He passed his matriculation examination in 1918 and left the orphanage in 1919. On 13 April 1919, over twenty thousand unarmed Indians (Sikhs Hindus), peacefully assembled in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, to listen to several prominent local leaders speak out against British colonial rule in India and against the arrest and deportation of Dr. Satya Pal, Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlew, and few others under the unpopular Rowlatt Act. Singh and his friends from the orphanage ere serving water to the crowd. Not much later, a band of 90 soldiers armed with two armoured cars with mounted machine guns. The vehicles were unable to enter the Bagh owing to the narrow entrance. Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer was in command. The troops had entered the Bagh by about 5 PM. With no warning to the crowd to disperse, Dyer ordered his troops to open fire. The attack lasted ten minutes. Since the only exit was barred by soldiers, people tried to climb the walls of the park. Some also Jumped into a well inside the compound to escape the bullets. A laque in the monument says that 120 bodies were plucked out of the well alone. Singh mainly held Michael ODwyer responsible for what came to be known as the Amritsar Massacre. New research supporting this fact reveals the massacre to have occurred with the Governors full connivance to teach the Indians a lesson, to make a wide impression and to strike terror throughout Punjab. The incident had greatly shaken young Singh and proved a turning point in his life. After bathing in the holy sarovar (pool of nectar), Singh took a silent vow and solemn pledge in front f the Golden Temple to wreak a vengeance on the perpetrators of the crime and to restore honour to what he saw as a humiliated nation. The opportunity came on 13 March 1940, almost 21 years after the Jallianwala Bagh killings: A Joint meeting of the East India Association and the Central Asian Society (now Royal Society for Asian Affairs) was scheduled at Caxton Hall, and among the speakers was Michael ODwyer. Singh concealed his revolver in a book specially cut for the purpose and managed to enter the hall. He took up his position against the wall. At the end of the meeting, the athering stood up, and ODwyer moved towards the platform to talk to Zetland. Singh pulled his revolver and fired. ODwyer was hit twice and died immediately. Then Singh fired at Zetland, the Secretary of State for India, injuring him but not seriously. Incidentally, Luis Dane was hit by one shot, which broke his radius bone and dropped him to the ground with serious injuries. A bullet also hit Lord Lamington, whose right hand was shattered. Singh did not intend to escape. He was arrested on the spot. His weapon, a knife, his diary, and a bullet fired on the day are ow kept in the Black Museum of Scotland Yard. While in Police custody, Singh remarked: Is Zetland dead? He ought to be. I put two into him right there, indicating with his hand the pit of his stomach on the left side. Singh remained quiet for several minutes and then again said: Only one dead, eh? I thought I could get more. I must have been too slow. There were a lot of women about, you know. On 1 April 1940, Singh was formally charged with the murder of Michael ODwyer. While awaiting trial in Brixton Prison Singh went on a 42-day hunger strike and had to be forcibly fed aily. On 4 June 1940, he was committed to trial, at the Central Criminal Court, Old Bailey, before Justice Atkinson. When the court asked about his name, he replied Ram Mohammad Singh Azad, (Ram as a Hindu name, Mohammad as a Muslim name and Singh as a Sikh name). Azad means to be free. This demonstrated the four things that were dear to him and his transcendence of race, caste, creed, and religion. Singh explained: l did it because I had a grudge against him. He deserved it. Singh was convicted, and Atkinson sentenced him to death. On 31 July 1940, Singh was hanged at Pentonville Prison. As with other executed prisoners, he was buried later that afternoon within the prison grounds. In March 1940, Indian National Congress leader Jawahar Lal Nehru, condemned the action of Singh as senseless, but statement in the daily Partap: l salute Shaheed-I-Azam Udham Singh with reverence who had kissed the noose so that we may be free. The Hindustan Socialist Republican Army condemned Mahatama Gandhis statement referring to Bhagat Singh as well as also to the capital punishment of Singh, which it considered to be a challenge to the Indian Youths.

Tannen agree or disagree with in Smiley Article Essay

Tannen agree or disagree with in Smiley Article - Essay Example To link with Smiley’s positive and explorative explanation of women being constructively influenced by the exposure to a Barbie doll in their early childhood years is an even tedious topic. But with assumptions to the question set, Tannen would agree with Smiley’s argument about Barbie having a positive effect toward little girls when they grow up. There has to be certain factors that should be taken into consideration in analyzing the agreements on both articles and their relationship with each other. An item that could be taken into consideration may be the two authors’ background. They seem to come from two different classes of women and since what they write is subtly, and even directly be affected by the way they discuss certain issues. It does seems that Smiley’s background is of her being a mother while Deborah is more of a radical in the field of women’s rights and the such. One part of Deborah Tennen’s personality comes from the part in the article where she talks about being present in conferences wherein she gets to mingle with other professionals that are also women. This makes a big difference with influences that both authors take into their writing ideas. This will also be a major consideration in the analysis of this topic. The relationship between the two authors may come as agreeing in other parts while they can also disagree in some. But, at this paper, to focus on Tennen’s agreement in the arguments Smiley sets is a rather plausible idea to be discussed. As a matter of fact, Tennen’s discussion is actually more of a broader topic where Smiley’s article fits in. the whole Barbie culture is actually just already a subcategory in Tennen’s discussion of the whole idea of marking women with certain benchmarks because of what seems to be. And in reality, Tennen may refuse, but she is actually a writer influenced by the ideals of feminists. The first point of the article which Ms . Tannen would most likely agree with is the fact that women are conditioned from childhood to view themselves in a certain way. Even if their real life female figures look nothing like their Barbie dolls referring to media icons that young women are introduced to such as their favorite fairy tale characters. She bemoans the fact that one of the primary arguments that Smiley roots up as she discusses in her article is the influence that Barbie dolls send to children during their childhood. She states how the Barbie doll culture sends the signals of women to dress as such and such and for them be expected in wearing rhinestones as well when they grow old. Barbie, according to her sends the first impression to little girls as how they should be dressed someday as they embrace the concept of femininity. Her daughter is subliminally taught by Barbies in having make-up on and wearing skimpy clothes. She even personifies Barbie as her daughter’s third mother-influence while she, as their real mother is usually only dressed with casual jeans and shirts. With Deborah Tennen’s article, she describes in detail, the outer appearance of the women she gets to meet during her small 8-manned conference. The seed of body issues and fashion first are now planted and the instruction manual regarding how to achieve the

Shangri La Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Shangri La Case Study - Essay Example However, he should make sure that the firm will get predictable benefits from the wage increase in the long run. Bridl must consider that Shangri-La has certain competitive advantages over its rivalries in the Chinese market. Unlike the new entrants, Shangri-La has already gained customer loyalty and reputation in the Chinese hospitality industry. The new entrants have to overcome a lot of barriers to ensure their position in the market, and their survival is uncertain. If Shangri-La initiates a sudden and huge increase in wage in response to the competitors’ employee-poaching, it will affect the firm in several ways. For instance, if the new competitors do not thrive in the market and retire instead, Shangri-La may not be able to bring wages back to lower levels. Also, since Shangri-La involves a vast chain of hotels and resorts across China, the firm cannot afford huge wage increase. In the same way, increasing or decreasing staffing levels are also not advisable for a few r easons. As the case indicates, since Chinese employees are not good at exercising decision making authority, reducing staffing levels will affect their productivity. ... As Rizwan et al (2011) point out, enhancing employee participation can greatly influence employee behaviour and thereby the overall performance of the company. Obviously, wage increase itself cannot guarantee employee retention. Therefore, Bridl can propose an ‘employment bond’ which the employee will sign agreeing to work for the company for a certain length of time in exchange for employment related training the company offers him. Another strategy is that like its rivals, Shangri-La can also give priority to experienced hands from other firms during its recruitment processes. It is advisable for Shangri-La to promote outstanding performers to a ‘trainer’ level so that they will feel that they are the integral part of the organisation. Job commitment and satisfaction are the key factors contributing to the overall organisational productivity (Lumley et al. 2011). The level of participation required to produce the feeling of ownership may vary from industry to industry. When an employee gets the feeling of ownership, s/he would be very cautious in his work and try to minimise material wastage and thereby costs (ibid). As mentioned above, wage increase should take place gradually along with other motivational strategies. The firm should also focus on intrinsic rewards to satisfy non-money motive employees. In addition to promotion, tactics like higher level training, tours, family get together etc can be applied. It is important consider the feedback of the tenured employees before implementing changes. Since Chinese employees are accustomed to traditional working environment, they may be resistant to change. Therefore, Bridl has to ensure that objectives are effectively communicated until the employees

Poetry Response Essay Example for Free

Poetry Response Essay I really love this poem by Wendy Copes because of the message that it tells me. For some reason there are those people who wish to pull someone down. Sometimes it is because of jealousy, envy and pride. In reality, no matter how hard you try to be good and to appreciate everyone, you really cannot please anybody. There will always be those who are against you.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The poem tells me that I should not let anyone interfere with what I am doing or to let anyone block my way to greater heights. That I should always do my best and show everyone what I can do, what I am able to do, my talents and abilities.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Everyone has his or her own goal in life and we must focus on that goal, not looking to anyone but on that goal alone. We should not get our attention off our goal and let someone mess with that. We should always remain focused in achieving that goal or else we may not be able to achieve it. It is true that no one can live alone and that we need others to be able to live and be happy. Still we should not let those who dislike us or envy us to be the reason for our failure, if we do so, we will certainly achieve nothing. Every time that an opportunity for us to be recognized is given grab it. We should not favor or look onto anyone who wants the same opportunity like us. Every opportunity is a stepping stone in achieving our goal, our desire, and our future. The world is a place wherein the strongest is given greater opportunity over the weak, the talented above those that are not, and the wise over the fools.   We should let our light shine, and our talents to be revealed in order to be acknowledged both by man and society. Also, the poem tells us that we should not be move or hindered by anyone. We should not be ashamed in showing our talents and as well as emotions. We must be true to ourselves and not compromising to anyone. If we are glad let it show in our own way. Dance or jump or shout if you want to. We should not let anyone to be reason for our sadness and downfall. Works Cited The British Council. No date. â€Å"Wendy Cope†. November 19, 2007   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.contemporarywriters.com/authors/?p=auth174

The Scarlet Letter - The Letter of a Thousand Words :: Scarlet Letter essays

The Scarlet Letter - The Letter of a Thousand Words    The Scarlet Letter deals with the theme of sin. Throughout history, people have committed all types of sins, and whether they are major or minor, people have been punished. However the severity of a punishment is very difficult to agree on. Some people feel that sinners should be deeply punished no matter how little the wrongdoing was. Others feel that a person's punishment should be based upon the severity of their crime. What many people overlook is the fact that in time, we all have committed sins. That is the case with the three main characters from the Scarlet Letter. Even though they were all different on the outside, inside they all shared a certain feeling of sin and guilt. So when I think of Hester, Dimmesdale, and Chillingworth, I think heavily upon the feelings that they all shared together, which were sin and guilt.    This novel was brought about from one mistake that a young, beautiful woman made. Here she was sent over to Boston without her husband, and many years later still hasn't shown up. She doesn't know if he is alive or died at sea. In the meantime, she got acquainted with Reverend Dimmesdale. Between the two of them, Hester bears a child and that child is the living proof, and a constant reminder that Hester has committed a sin. So the townspeople made Hester wear the letter A on her chest and made her stand on a scaffold in front of the town to display her shame. So everywhere she went she had to carry that guilt with her. In the meantime Chillingworth shows up and demands to know whom the father of Pearl is. Hester will not tell him so he constantly batters her but Hester keeps her strength and refuses each time. Which isn't so easy because she has to face him everyday.    Dimmesdale is most likely the worst sinner of all. His sin was that he was Hester's partner, which was Pearls father. Since he was a coward, he didn't have the guts to admit it to the public. He didn't want to lose the public's trust and his popularity that he had from his congregation.

Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is one of the oldest forms of martial arts in Japan, and it is still a major sport that is popular with both men and women there. In ancient times, sumo contests were held only in the courtyards of Shinto shrines as a religious ritual performed for the gods to encourage them to grant a good harvest. Ritual is, therefore, an important part of the sport. Before each match, contestants sprinkle salt on the ring and rinse their mouths in a ritual purification. Nowadays, sumo wrestling contests are held in gymnasiums, Convention centers and Stadiums. At first glance, sumo wrestling seems to be a strange sport with big, fat wrestlers wearing diaper-like aprons, shoving each other inside a tiny ring. Contrary to its appearance, sumo wrestling is a sport that requires not only strength, but also speed and agility, which heavy-set people usually do not possess. The wrestlers try to push each other out of the ring or down on the floor. Before actual physical contact, the wrestlers will stare at each other for minutes to break the concentration of the Opponent. The fight usually lasts for only a few seconds but sometimes it can go on for two to three minutes. The objective of a sumo bout, however, is not to injure the Opponent, but to simply eject the other man from the arena, or cause some part of the body other than his feet – or even a fingertip – to touch the floor. In fact, if some blood spots the floor of the ring during a match, the bout has to stop until every trace of blood has been meticulouslv removed. The size of the wrestler is also important. The heavier the wrestler, the lower his center of gravity, and thus the harder to toss him out of the ring. In order to put on weight and build up body mass, sumo wrestlers eat a large amount of food including a high-protein stew, and they go to bed right after eating. The heaviest sumo wrestler on record was 225 kilograms. Despite their large size and heavy weight, sumo wrestlers are well-trained athletes. They live in special sumo stables, following extremely strict rules and besides having their physical workouts, they have to complete other necessary chores. The wrestlers practise a lifestyle that is completely dedicated to the sport. To them, sumo is not only a sport; it is a whole way of life. This positive dedication has encouraged the Japanese to adopt them as role modeis. Hierarchy is a central aspect of sumo wrestling. Rankings depend on winning records. A sumo wrestler's ranking depends solely on the number of matches he wins during official tournaments. The more matches a wrestler wins, the quicker he can move up the rankings. Once a wrestler moves up to the top rank, he is not supposed to lose at all. He is expected to retire if he is unable to maintain his winning record. In fact, if a grand champion's losses outnumber his wins during the course of these tournaments, he will fall from the top ranks and will be expected to retire like the rest. Today's professional sumo wrestling has its roots in the Edo period. The wrestlers during this period were mainly samurais who needed an alternative form of income. Even the wrestling ring can be traced back to the 16th Century Edo period. In earlier times, the fighting space was simply the area given to the wrestlers by spectators. In the 16th Century, an important warlord named Oda Nobunaga introduced the ring in a tournament he organized. It is a platform 4. 5 meters in diameter and 16. 26 Square meters in area made of clay mixed with sand set on top of rice straw bales. Despite sumo wrestling's archaic rituals and traditions, the sport continues to draw new fans and growing international interest. Hundreds of sumo wrestlers of various nationalities compete to earn comfortable livelihoods, participating in ma tches not only in Japan, but in Europe, North America and Britain. Grand Champions attain celebrity Status and enjoy the intense adoration of dedicated fans. Present day sumo wrestlers consist of anybody who is interested in the sport and professional wrestlers come from all walks of life. Nevertheless, as a sport, sumo is not without controversy. It has been criticised as discriminatory since participants are limited to men only. There is a rule which prevents women from being sumo wrestlers and another which prohibits them from entering the wrestling ring altogether. These barriers exist because the Japanese believe women's presence in the ring will violate its purity. Sumo wrestling, being a religion-originated sport in which traditions are strictly observed, is unlikely to undergo drastic changes in the near future. It will probably be a long time before one can see a female sumo wrestler.