The Rover by Aphra Behn

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This blog is in response to the thinking task assigned by Megha Ma'am.

Introduction :

"The Rover" is a Restoration comedy by Aphra Behn, first performed in 1677. It is set in Naples during Carnival time, and follows the romantic adventures of a group of English Cavaliers. The play is known for its wit, satire, and exploration of themes of gender, class, and sexuality.

One of the central characters in the play is Willmore, a rakish Cavalier who is constantly in pursuit of women. He falls in love with Helena, a young woman who is supposed to be about to enter a nunnery. However, Helena is also being pursued by Don Antonio, a Spanish nobleman.

Another important character is Angellica, a courtesan who is known for her beauty and intelligence. She is drawn to Willmore, but she is also suspicious of his intentions.

The Rover is a complex and nuanced play that deals with a variety of social and political issues. It is also a very funny and entertaining play, and it remains one of Behn's most popular works.

About Aphra Behn :

Aphra Behn (1640-1689) was an English playwright, poet, prose writer, and translator from the Restoration era. She is considered one of the first English women to earn her living by her writing, and she broke cultural barriers to serve as a literary role model for later generations of women authors.

Behn's work is known for its wit, intelligence, and social commentary. Her plays are often bawdy and satirical, and they explore themes of gender, class, and sexuality. Her novella "Oroonoko" is considered one of the earliest works of anti-slavery fiction in English literature.

Behn's legacy is complex and controversial. She was both praised and condemned for her outspokenness and her willingness to challenge conventional social norms. However, there is no doubt that she was a groundbreaking and influential writer who made significant contributions to English literature.

Questions:

Q. 1) Angellica considers the financial negotiations that one makes before marrying a prospective bride the same as prostitution. Do you agree?

Ans. :

I personally confused, because 

the question of whether financial arrangements before marriage are like prostitution is complicated and doesn't have a simple answer. It depends on various factors, including the type of negotiations, the reasons behind them, and the cultural context.

In some cultures, it's common for families to discuss dowries or bride prices before a marriage. They might do this to ensure the bride's financial security or compensate her family for her leaving.

In other cultures, discussing money before marriage is considered a no-no. Some people think it's wrong to put a price on love or treat someone like a commodity.

In India, the legal stance on financial negotiations before marriage is tricky. On one hand, the law forbids selling or buying people. On the other hand, the law recognizes some traditional practices like dowries.

There are arguments against comparing these financial discussions to prostitution:

- Prostitution involves selling sex, while financial talks before marriage are often about financial security.

- Prostitution can involve exploitation and coercion, but these discussions usually happen between willing adults.

- Prostitution is often illegal, but discussing finances before marriage usually isn't.

Still, there are similarities:

- In both cases, someone is offering something valuable (sex or companionship) for money.

- The person providing the service is often vulnerable in both cases.

- There's a risk of exploitation in both situations.

In the end, whether these financial discussions are like prostitution is a matter of personal opinion. There are good arguments on both sides.

In India, many communities practice dowry payments. Some see dowries as a way to ensure the bride's financial security or compensate her family. However, dowry payments have also been linked to problems like bride burning and female infanticide.

Some argue that paying dowries is a form of prostitution, as they believe the bride's family is essentially selling their daughter to the groom's family. This can put women in vulnerable positions, as they may be seen as less valuable without a substantial dowry.

Others argue that paying dowries isn't the same as prostitution. They see it as a way for the bride's family to provide financial support and consider it a cultural tradition to be respected.

The debate over whether paying dowries is similar to prostitution is complex, and there are strong arguments on both sides. It's important to understand different perspectives before forming your own opinion.

There's no consensus on this issue. Some people think financial negotiations before marriage are always wrong, while others believe they can be acceptable in certain situations. It's essential to consider all viewpoints before making a judgment.

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Question -2 :

Q -2) "All women together ought to let flowers fall upon the tomb of Aphra Behn, for it was she who earned them the right to speak their minds." Virginia Woolf said so in 'A Room of One's Own'. Do you agree with this statement? Justify your answer with reference to your reading of the play 'The Rover'.

Ans .

I agree with Virginia Woolf's statement that Aphra Behn "earned women the right to speak their minds." Aphra Behn was an extraordinary writer for her time, and her work often went against the usual social rules. She was one of the first English women to make a living from her writing, and her plays were known for being clever, smart, and for commenting on society.

In one of her plays, called "The Rover," Aphra Behn created strong female characters who weren't afraid to speak their minds. For example, there's Helena, a young woman who refuses to be forced into a marriage she doesn't want. She speaks her thoughts openly and honestly. Then there's Angellica, a courtesan who is smart and independent. She doesn't hesitate to challenge the men in her life.

Aphra Behn's work opened doors for future generations of women writers. She showed that women could be successful and respected writers. She also gave a voice to female characters who were complicated and had depth.

Let me give you some specific examples from "The Rover" that support my argument:

- In Act I, Helena tells Willmore that she'd rather become a nun than marry a man she doesn't love. She says, "I'd rather be a nun and live pure, than be a wife and live improperly."

- In Act II, Angellica tells Willmore that she's not interested in love, only in money. She says, "I'm not in love with you, and I don't want to be. I'm a courtesan, and my love comes with a price."

- In Act III, Helena tells Willmore that she's not afraid of him and won't be forced to do anything she doesn't want to do. She says, "I don't fear you, sir. I have a strong heart like yours, and a truthful tongue."

Aphra Behn's characters are not flawless. They make mistakes and have their own imperfections. However, they are all strong and independent women who are not afraid to express their thoughts. Behn's work played a significant role in challenging the traditional view of women as passive and subservient.

We can argue that Behn's work paved the way for future generations of women writers, challenged societal norms, and gave a voice to complex female characters. We can also use examples from "The Rover" to support our arguments, like discussing the characters Helena and Angellica and how they defy traditional gender roles or talking about the play's themes of gender, class, and sexuality.

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Question .3 :

Q-3) Which female character best represents the playwright, Aphra Behn? Consider the characteristics and beliefs of each female character, and make an argument that relates these distinctive attributes to what you know about Behn.

Ans.

I think the female character in "The Rover" who best represents the playwright, Aphra Behn, is "Helena". Helena is a young woman who is fiercely independent and outspoken. She is also intelligent, witty, and resourceful. These are all qualities that Behn herself possessed.

Behn was a groundbreaking writer who challenged the social and political norms of her time. She was one of the first English women to earn her living by her writing, and she broke cultural barriers to serve as a literary role model for later generations of women authors.

Like Behn, Helena is not afraid to speak her mind, even when it means challenging authority. For example, when her brother tries to force her to marry a man she does not love, she defies him and runs away. She also refuses to be intimidated by the powerful men in her life, such as Don Antonio.

Helena is also a strong and capable woman who is able to take care of herself. She is not dependent on men for financial support or protection. In fact, she is often the one who is helping others. For example, she helps Angellica to escape from her abusive lover.

In all of these ways, Helena embodies the qualities that Behn herself admired and valued: independence, intelligence, wit, and resourcefulness. Helena is a role model for women who want to live their lives on their own terms and to speak their minds freely.

Here is a specific example from the play that illustrates Helena's strength and independence:

HELENA: I am not a vessel to be disposed of at your pleasure. I am my own, and I will dispose of myself as I please.

This line shows that Helena is not afraid to stand up to her brother and assert her own independence. She knows that she is her own person, and she has the right to make her own choices.

Behn herself would have likely admired Helena's courage and determination. She was a woman who was not afraid to challenge the status quo and to fight for what she believed in. Helena is a fitting representation of the playwright who created her.

Conclusion: 

In nutshell, we can say that Aphra Behn's "The Rover" is a captivating play that not only entertains but also challenges societal norms of its time. Through vibrant characters like Helena, Behn showcases the strength, independence, and wit that she herself possessed. The play stands as a testament to Behn's groundbreaking contributions to literature and her role as an early feminist voice, making it a timeless and influential work that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Thank you so much for reading 😊🙏🏻

Happy Learning 😄

"A Tale of a Tub" by Jonathan Swift

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This blog is in response to the thinking task assigned by Vaidehi Ma'am.

Check the task : Click here

Introduction : 

Jonathan Swift's "A Tale of a Tub" is an old but awesome book that makes fun of religion and politics. It's like a riddle with three brothers and a coat. In this blog, we'll look at what makes this book cool, talk about its style, and why it's still interesting today.

Q.1

How far do you think Digression is necessary?

I think Digression is very necessary inA Tale of a Tub as well as in life.

So firstly let's discuss how digression is necessary in "A Tale of a Tub": 

 The digressions found within "A Tale of a Tub" play a crucial role in Swift's satirical and meaningful narrative. They enable Swift to delve into a diverse array of subjects related to the main story, expanding the scope of his satire and offering a more thorough critique of human folly.

Example :

For Example, the "Digression on Madness" extensively examines the blurred lines between reason and insanity, shedding light on the behaviors of the three brothers in the main narrative, each driven by their unique forms of madness.

Equally significant is the "Digression on Critics," where Swift criticizes his contemporaneous critics for their pedantic and narrow-minded approach. This digression not only provides insight into Swift's satirical intentions but also acts as a pre-emptive response to his anticipated critics.

Beyond their relevance to the main narrative, these digressions are notable for their humor and entertainment value. Swift's mastery of satire is evident in these sections through clever wordplay, irony, and parody, making them both informative and enjoyable to read.

In short we can say that, the digressions in "A Tale of a Tub" are indispensable to Swift's satire, allowing him to explore a wide array of topics, deliver a comprehensive critique of human folly, and captivate his readers with wit and humor.

 

In Life :

In simpler terms, think of digression as taking a scenic route in a conversation or in our life journey. It's when you momentarily veer away from your main topic or planned path to explore something different. Although it might seem like a distraction, digressions often prove to be vital in life.

Consider a chat with a friend. You kick off by discussing a movie you watched, but soon you find yourselves delving into details about the actor, then their career, and before you know it, you're talking about travel experiences or food. This departure from your initial movie talk is a digression.

In life, digressions come into play when unexpected opportunities or challenges arise. You may have a clear plan, but when something unforeseen pops up, you choose to investigate it. This detour can lead to fresh experiences, knowledge, and even a shift in your life's course.

Digressions hold importance because they inject diversity and enrichment into our conversations and life experiences. They empower us to explore new ideas, gain different viewpoints, and add zest to life. Sometimes, these diversions even unearth valuable insights or prospects that we would have missed if we rigidly adhered to our original path.

In essence, while maintaining focus and direction in life is crucial, being open to some digressions can make the journey more satisfying and exhilarating. So, don't always shy away from taking a little detour in your conversations or life plans; you never know where it might lead you.

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Question 2 :

Identify any one movie/web series/song/poem/novel which talks about the sensitive topic like religion. Write in brief about it and explain what kind questions are raised through that work.

Ans.:

We can identify the movie 'PK' as the film that discusses sensitive topics like religion. So let's talk about the movie...

PK (2014)

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Satir

Director:  Rajkumar Hirani

Starring. : Aamir Khan, 

                Anushka Sharma,

               Sushant Singh Rajput, 

               Sanjay Dutt

Plot:

The story of the movie is very interesting. The movie PK starts with a spectacular scene of a spaceship landing in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, India. An alien named PK (Aamir Khan) lands on Earth on a research mission. However, his remote control device, which allows him to communicate with his spaceship, is stolen. Stranded on Earth, PK begins to explore the world around him. He is fascinated by human behavior, but he is also confused by many of the things he sees.

PK is particularly puzzled by religion. He sees people praying to different gods and goddesses, and he wonders why they do this. He also sees people engaging in various rituals, and he doesn't understand the meaning behind them.

In his quest to understand religion, PK meets Jaggu (Anushka Sharma), a young woman who is disillusioned with love. Jaggu helps PK to learn about the different religions of the world. However, PK's innocent questions about religion often offend people. He is accused of being blasphemous and is even attacked by religious fanatics.

Despite the challenges he faces, PK continues to seek answers to his questions. He eventually comes to the conclusion that religion is not about following rules or rituals. It is about having a personal relationship with God.

PK's journey leads him to confront religious hypocrisy and to challenge the authority of religious figures. He also learns about the power of love and forgiveness.

In the end, PK is able to find his way back to his home planet. However, he leaves behind a message of hope and understanding. He encourages people to question their beliefs and to open their minds to the possibility of a world without religious conflict.

Themes:

In the film PK we can find that the film explores the sensitive topic of religion through the eyes of an outsider, who is not bound by any particular belief system.

PK questions the blind faith and hypocrisy that can exist within organized religion.

The film also promotes the idea of tolerance and understanding between different religions.

Critical reception:

PK was a critical and commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of all time. The film was praised for its humor, its social commentary, and its performances.

Controversy:

PK was also controversial, with some religious groups accusing it of being offensive to their beliefs. However, the film's director, Rajkumar Hirani, has defended the film, saying that it is not meant to offend anyone, but rather to encourage people to think critically about religion.

In brief, PK is a thought-provoking film that tackles the sensitive topic of religion in a humorous and engaging way.

Impact :

PK is a film that has stayed with many people long after they have seen it. It is a film that raises important questions about the role of religion in society, and it encourages viewers to think for themselves.

What kind questions are raised through that work :

I had several question which raised through the movie:

1st of all I had questions that

Q.1 How police constable allows  Jaggu to meet PK repeatedly? 😅

Q.2 

Conclusion :

So, we can say that "A Tale of a Tub" is like a really old funny story that makes fun of religion and politics. Even though it's super old, it's still funny and makes us think about these things today. It's a reminder that funny stories can teach us about how people act, whether they're smart or a bit silly, no matter when they lived.

Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy

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This blog is in response to the thinking task assigned by Dilip Sir Barad.

Check the task : Click here

Introduction: 

Jude the Obscure" is a novel written by Thomas Hardy, published in 1895. It tells the story of Jude Fawley, a young and ambitious working-class man with dreams of pursuing a university education and becoming a scholar. However, he faces numerous social and personal obstacles that complicate his journey, including complex relationships, societal norms, and personal tragedies. The novel explores themes of class, education, morality, and the limitations placed on individuals by their circumstances, making it a powerful and controversial work in the context of late 19th-century England.

Question : 1

What is the significance of the epigraph written by Hardy - 'Letter Killeth' - for this novel, Jude the Obscure.

Ans. : 

If we want to discuss this topic, it's essential for all of us to have a clear understanding of what an epigraph is. So, let's start by exploring the definition of an epigraph.

Meaning of Epigraph : 

An epigraph is a short quotation that is placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, or other work of writing. It is often used to set the tone of the work or to introduce a major theme.

Epigraphs can be taken from a variety of sources, including the Bible, other religious texts, classical literature, and popular culture. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as :

> To introduce a major theme of the work

> To provide context for the work

> To create a certain mood or atmosphere

> To pay homage to another author or work of writing.

In some cases, the meaning of an epigraph may be clear and straightforward. In other cases, the epigraph may be more ambiguous and require interpretation. The reader is often left to decide how the epigraph relates to the work as a whole.

Here are some examples of famous epigraphs:

  "All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way." - Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina

 

"It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known." - Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities

 "Call me Ishmael." - Herman Melville, Moby-Dick

 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." - John 1:1

  "To be or not to be, that is the question." - William Shakespeare, Hamlet

 Epigraphs can be a powerful way to enhance a work of writing. They can add depth, meaning, and resonance to the work. They can also be used to create a sense of anticipation or mystery in the reader.

What is the significance of the epigraph written by Hardy - 'Letter Killeth' - for this novel, Jude the Obscure.

According to 2 Corinthians 3:6, the epigraph "Letter Killeth" from Hardy's book "Jude the Obscure" quotes this verse: "Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." This epigraph's significance for the book "Jude the Obscure" can be seen in its themes and the conflict between the characters' inner wants and rigid social norms. Examples of how this epigraph is significant in the context of the book are provided below:

"The Struggle of Personal Ambition Against Conventional Norms."

In "Jude the Obscure," the epigraph "Letter Killeth" captures the tension between societal rules (the "letter" of the law or tradition) and personal impulses, which is the main theme of the book. It implies that naively following conventional norms can be restrictive and harmful. This is demonstrated in the novel's background by Jude's endeavors to further his education and his desire to enroll at Christminster. The conservative expectations and values of his society always oppose him in spite of his resolve.

Quest for Knowledge and Personal Growth" : 

Jude is someone who genuinely wants to learn and receive an excellent education, similar to someone who wants to attend college. But Jude's society at the time was quite structured, with a detailed list of dos and don'ts. The "Letter Killeth" epigraph is similar to those stringent guidelines. Jude seems to be prevented from opening the book and obtaining the education he wants by these rules.

Therefore, the "letter" in the epigraph stands for the rigid and unyielding social norms that prevent Jude from realizing his aspirations. Jude finds it extremely difficult to pursue his aim of learning and self-improvement because these regulations operate as a barred door. As a result, he must constantly balance what he wants with what is realistic.

"Early Warning of Tragedy in the Story" :  

The epigraph at the beginning of the book gives us a hint that something very sad is going to happen to the characters. It's like a warning sign. It suggests that when people stick too closely to strict, old-fashioned rules and values, it can cause really bad things to happen. In the story, this adherence to traditional ways makes the characters go through a lot of pain and eventually leads to their lives falling apart. So, the epigraph tells us right from the start that this is going to be a very sad and tragic story.

"Thomas Hardy's Critique of Old-Fashioned Rules in Victorian Society"

The author, Thomas Hardy, uses the epigraph as a way to make fun of or criticize the way society was in the Victorian era. He does this by quoting a part of the Bible that says it's not good to be too strict with traditions. By doing this, he's saying that the strict rules and moral values of that time were oppressive and didn't make much sense. He's basically showing how silly and harsh those old-fashioned rules were and how they made the characters in the story suffer.

The epigraph "Letter Killeth" is like a guiding idea for the whole story. It's like a spotlight on the main themes of the book, which are all about the struggle between what people want for themselves and what society expects from them. The book also shows how this clash can lead to bad things happening. So, the epigraph helps us understand what the book is all about – people's dreams and the problems they face when those dreams don't match what society thinks is right.

Watch this video for summary of the novel "Jude the Obscure" :

Question : 2

Is it possible to connect the meaning of the epigraph of 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of the novel and the myth of Bhasmasur?

Ans. : 

Yes, it is possible to connect the meaning of the epigraph of 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of the novel "Jude the Obscure" and the myth of Bhasmasur.

The Epigraph :

The epigraph of 'Esdras' at the beginning of the first chapter of **Jude the Obscure** is from the Book of Esdras in the Apocrypha:

> "The days will draw nigh, and the years will approach, when the mother shall forget her child, and the father shall not pity his daughter, and the brother shall not spare his brother, because of the famine in the midst of the land."

This epigraph foreshadows the tragic events of the novel, in which Jude and Sue's children are neglected and abused, and Jude himself is ultimately destroyed by the harsh realities of life.

"The Myth of Bhasmasur" :

Bhasmasur was a demon in Hindu mythology who was granted a boon by the god Shiva that whatever he touched would turn to ash. Bhasmasur became drunk with power and decided to test Shiva's boon by touching him on the head. Shiva quickly realized the danger and fled, with Bhasmasur in close pursuit.

Shiva eventually escaped by tricking Bhasmasur into touching his own head, which turned him to ash. The myth of Bhasmasur is a cautionary tale about the dangers of power and the importance of humility.

"Connecting the Two" :

The epigraph of 'Esdras' and the myth of Bhasmasur are both stories about the destructive power of unchecked ambition and the importance of humility. In "Jude the Obscure" ,Jude is a man who is consumed by his ambition to become a scholar. He neglects his family and his own happiness in pursuit of his goals, and he ultimately pays the price for his pride.

Similarly, Bhasmasur is a demon who is destroyed by his own arrogance. He is granted a powerful boon by Shiva, but he becomes so drunk with power that he forgets the importance of humility. In the end, Bhasmasur is destroyed by his own hubris.

Both the epigraph and the myth of Bhasmasur serve as warnings to the reader about the dangers of ambition and the importance of humility. They remind us that even the most powerful people are vulnerable to their own pride, and that we should always be careful not to let our ambition consume us.

In addition to the above, there are a few other specific connections that can be made between the epigraph and the myth:

> Both Jude and Bhasmasur are granted a boon by a higher power.

> Both Jude and Bhasmasur use their power for selfish purposes.

> Both Jude and Bhasmasur are ultimately destroyed by their own pride.

Ultimately, the epigraph and the myth of Bhasmasur serve as a reminder that we should be careful about what we wish for, and that we should always be humble in our dealings with others.

Question : 3 :

Structure of the Novel : Jude the Obscure

As  Sir mentioned in this video,The structure of the novel might  be described as  a series of " reversals of belief in Jude and Sue" and their changing marital relationships as they both go down to defeat. This structural approach is used to unravel the story's progression.  At the beginning, Sue's view of things is secular and rational.

The video also makes a connection to John Dryden's "Absalom and Achitophel," showcasing a similar narrative structure. "Absalom and Achitophel" commences by introducing the people, then delves into the lives of King David and his wife. 

Their illegitimate son is also a central character in the story. Alongside these key figures, various groups and individuals are brought into the narrative, including Achitophel, who is deeply dissatisfied and attempts to incite Absalom against the king. As the plot unfolds, temptations and tensions arise, with people being swayed by Absalom, who ultimately emerges as a leader in opposition to the king. The narrative reaches its conclusion as the king addresses the situation and the consequences of the unfolding events.

"Like 'Absalom and Achitophel,' this novel is quite complex and has received criticism for being unclear about its intentions. Some people believe that Thomas Hardy, the author, wasn't as straightforward as he was in his previous works. In this novel, there are many different themes, especially love, all mixed together, making it hard to follow. Because of this complexity, the novel's structure can sometimes be confusing, and readers might struggle to understand why the characters behave the way they do."

As we know earlier that , In the beginning Sue's view of things is secular and rationalist, expressed, for example, in her sympathy with ancient rather than medieval culture, her scorn of conventional religious belief, her buying of pagan statuary, her reading of Gibbon. Jude's beliefs are, at first, conventionally Christian, as his desire to be ordained, his reading of standard authors, and his love of medieval culture and architecture show. By the end of the novel Sue has reverted to conventional beliefs, as evidenced by her concern for the sanctity of marriage and her desire to perform penances for her sins. On the other hand, Jude no longer professes his old beliefs and finds himself, as he says in his speech to the street crowd in Christminster, in "a chaos of principles."

This change in beliefs is closely paralleled by their marital relationships. At first, they are separated by marriage to other people as they are apart in belief As Jude's ideas change, they are legally freed by divorce, and they come to live together and to be "married," in fact, if not in name. When Sue returns to conventional Christian beliefs, they separate and remarry their first spouses.

Jude's death as a failure in Christminster and Sue's forcing herself to go to Phillotson's bed are striking signs of their defeat in life. This defeat is mirrored as well in Phillotson, who at Marygreen has fallen to the bottom professionally and who stiffly requires Sue to swear loyalty to him on a New Testament, and to a lesser extent in Arabella, who though she loses Jude does not lose her vitality.

In these changes and defeat Hardy has embodied the theme of his novel: Jude and Sue have been caught up in the modern spirit, have struggled to break free of the old ways, and have suffered and failed. It is this that justifies Hardy's description of the novel, in his preface to it, as a "tragedy of unfulfilled aims."

  The novel is divided into six parts, each of which chronicles a different stage in Jude's life.

The novel's structure can also be seen as a reflection of Jude's "inner journey". Jude begins the novel as a hopeful and optimistic young man, but he is gradually disillusioned by the harsh realities of life. By the end of the novel, he has lost his faith in God, his love for Sue, and his ambition to become a scholar.

Conclusion:

In short, we can say that the structure of "Jude the Obscure" is a reflection of the protagonist's "tragic downfall". Jude is a sympathetic character, but he is also flawed and makes a number of mistakes. The novel's structure emphasizes the inevitability of Jude's tragedy, while also highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Hello Everyone 🤠

This blog is in response to the thinking activity assigned by Megha Ma'am.

Introduction:

In this blog we are going to discuss some questions related to Jane Austen's novel "The Pride and Prejudice" and it's 2005  movie adaptation " Pride and Prejudice (2005)" and it's answers. This novel and movie both are just awesome.

   So without any further delay let's discuss the questions & it's answers.

(Q-1.)  Compare the narrative strategy of the novel and movie:

Ans.

I will say that The 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is a faithful adaptation of Jane Austen's novel, but there are some key differences in the narrative strategy of the two works.

One of the biggest differences between the two is the way the narration is presented.

The 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is a faithful adaptation of Jane Austen's novel, but there are some key differences in the narrative strategy of the two works.

One of the most significant differences is the use of voiceover narration. In the novel, Austen uses third-person omniscient narration to tell the story, giving the reader access to the thoughts and feelings of all the characters. Whereas in the movie we can see that the director only introduces us to the story from the point of view of Elizabeth Bennet to narrate the story,This allows the audience to get inside Elizabeth's head and understand her motivations more deeply.However, it also means that the audience is limited to Elizabeth's point of view, and they do not get to see the story unfold from other character's perspectives.

Themes :

The novel and the 2005 film of Pride and Prejudice handle certain themes differently. The novel is critical of social norms like marriage and women's roles, while the film is lighter and more romantic. The movie also has a happier ending than the book.

Finally, the novel and the film also differ in the pace of the story. The book is quite long, over 400 pages, and Jane Austen takes her time with character development and relationships. The film, being just two hours, has to move faster, so it trims some subplots and shortens others, making it quicker-paced than the book.

So, we can say that, The 2005 film of Pride and Prejudice is loyal to the book but tells the story differently. It uses Elizabeth's voice for narration, moves quicker, and feels more romantic and cheerful than the novel.

The novel includes multiple subplots, such as the relationships of Elizabeth's sisters, Jane and Lydia, and the marriage of Charlotte Lucas. The film omits some of these subplots and focuses on the main love story between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy.

The novel is more critical of the social conventions of Austen's time, such as the importance of marriage and the role of women in society. The film is less critical of these conventions and focuses more on the romantic aspects of the story.

So we can say that The way the story is presented is greatly influenced by the narrative techniques used in both the book and the movie. The film concentrates more on the story's love elements, but the novel offers a more intricate and nuanced interpretation of the events. Whichever storytelling technique works best is ultimately a question of taste.

(Q - 2.) Write an illustration of the society of Jane Austen's time.

We must believe that Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice is a faithful depiction of English society in the early 19th century.

Now we had question in our mind that :

How can we assess the faithfulness of Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice in depicting English society during the early 19th century?"

So let's see this with example of the scenes of the novel. The novel is set in a rural area, but it also explores the social dynamics of the upper class in London.

Social class :

Social class was extremely important in Austen's time. People were divided into three main classes: the aristocracy, the gentry, and the working class. The aristocracy was the highest class, and it consisted of the nobility and their families. The gentry was the middle class, and it consisted of landowners, professionals, and merchants. The working class was the lowest class, and it consisted of factory workers, farm laborers, and servants.

In Pride and Prejudice, the Bennet family is part of the gentry. They own a small estate, but they are not wealthy. The Bennets are constantly worried about their financial situation, and they are eager to marry their daughters off to rich men.

Mr. Darcy, on the other hand, is a member of the aristocracy. He is a wealthy landowner, and he is also very proud of his social status. Darcy's pride often gets in the way of his relationships, and it prevents him from seeing Elizabeth Bennet for who she really is.

Marriage :

Marriage was also very important in Austen's time. It was seen as a way for women to achieve financial security and social status. Women were expected to marry well, and they had little choice in who they married.

In Pride and Prejudice, the Bennet sisters are all under pressure to find husbands. Their mother, Mrs. Bennet, is obsessed with marrying her daughters off. She is particularly eager for Elizabeth to marry Mr. Collins, a wealthy but ridiculous man.

Elizabeth, however, is not interested in marrying Mr. Collins. She wants to marry a man for love, not for money or social status. In the end, Elizabeth marries Mr. Darcy, even though he is from a higher social class than her.

More customs in society :

Austen's novel also explores other social conventions of the time, such as the role of women, the importance of reputation, and the rules of courtship.

Women in Austen's time had very few rights. They were not allowed to own property or vote, and they were expected to be obedient to their husbands. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet challenges some of these social conventions. She is intelligent and independent, and she refuses to be cowed by men.

Reputation was also very important in Austen's time. A woman's reputation could be ruined by a single scandal. In Pride and Prejudice, Lydia Bennet's reputation is ruined when she elopes with Mr. Wickham, a man of questionable character.

The rules of courtship were also very strict in Austen's time. Men and women were not allowed to be alone together, and they had to be chaperoned at all times. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are able to overcome these social conventions and fall in love.

So we can just say that Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is a faithful depiction of English society in the early 19th century. The novel explores the social conventions of the time, such as social class, marriage, the role of women, and the rules of courtship. Austen's novel is a valuable historical document, and it also provides a timeless commentary on human nature.

(Q - 3)  What if Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth never got together? What if Lydia's elopement had a different outcome? Explore the consequences of these changes and write alternative endings to the novel.

If we change these situations  then the whole novel might change.

How is that? So let's see it by running the horses of our imagination.

Let's see alternative ending to the novel by changing this consequences :

 What if Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth never got together?

 What if Lydia's elopement had a different outcome? 

Alternative 1 :

Imagine a scenario where Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth never got together.

If Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth never got together, it would essentially affect the existences of the two characters.

Elizabeth would probably have hitched another man, yet it is muddled who that would have been. She might have hitched Mr. Collins, as he was the main man who proposed to her. Notwithstanding, she likewise may have hitched another person, like Mr. Wickham or Mr. Bingley.

Mr. Darcy would probably have stayed unmarried. He was an extremely pleased man, and he could never have needed to wed somebody who didn't cherish him for what his identity was.

The results of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth not getting together would likewise be felt by their families and companions. The Bennet family would have been disheartened that Elizabeth didn't wed a rich man. The Darcy family would have been frustrated that Mr. Darcy didn't wed a lady who was viewed as a decent counterpart for him.

In general, if Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth never got together, it would have been a miserable closure for the two characters and their families.

Alternative  2:

Imagine a scenario in which Lydia's elopement had an alternate result.

In the event that Lydia's elopement had an alternate result, it would likewise essentially affect the existences of the Bennet family.

Assuming Lydia had absconded with Mr. Wickham and he had not hitched her, Lydia's standing would have been destroyed. She would be thought of to be a shame to the Bennet family. All things considered, Lydia would have needed to get away from Longbourn and live with family members or companions.

The Bennet family would have been embarrassed by Lydia's elopement. Their social standing would have been harmed, and it would have been more challenging for the other Bennet sisters to track down spouses.

In any case, on the off chance that Lydia had run off with Mr. Wickham and he had hitched her, it would have been an improved result for Lydia. She would have had the option to keep her standing, and she would have had the option to carry on with an agreeable life as Mr. Wickham's significant other.

The Bennet family would have been feeling much better that Lydia had hitched Mr. Wickham. Their social standing could never have been harmed so a lot, and it would have been more straightforward for the other Bennet sisters to track down spouses.

In general, the outcomes of Lydia's elopement would have relied upon whether Mr. Wickham had hitched her. On the off chance that he had not hitched her, it would have been a miserable consummation for Lydia and the Bennet family. In any case, in the event that he had hitched her, it would have been an improved result for all interested parties.

Conclusion:

 In a nutshell, the novel deeply connects us, allowing us to feel the characters and the entire story with a broad perspective. On the other hand, the movie provides a better audio-visual experience for understanding the story, condensing it into just two hours, which gives us an overall idea of the novel.

Thank you so much for Reading ☺️

Happy Learning 😀🎉

Hard Times by Charles Dickens

Hello Everyone ☺

This blog is in response to the thinking activity assigned by Dr. Dilip Sir Barad. 

In this blog we are going to discuss the review of  the hindi play performance of Hard Times by Charles Dickens. 

Introduction :

"Hard Times" is a classic novel by Charles Dickens that explores the harsh realities of industrial society in 19th-century England. It shows a world where people focus only on facts and efficiency, ignoring their feelings. Through vivid characters and a compelling narrative, Dickens critiques the dehumanizing effects of utilitarianism and the industrial revolution, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into the struggles of the working class during this transformative era.

If we want to study any particular work we have to know about its author so now let's discuss about the writer :

Charles Dickens :

Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was a British novelist who is generally considered the greatest of the Victorian era. His novels, including Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, Bleak House, A Tale of Two Cities, and Great Expectations, are known for their vivid characters, compelling narratives, and social commentary.

Dickens was born in Portsmouth, England, in 1812. His father was a clerk in the Navy Pay Office, but he was often in debt. When Dickens was 12 years old, his father was imprisoned for debt, and Dickens was forced to work in a blacking factory. This experience had a profound impact on Dickens, and it influenced many of his novels.

Dickens began his writing career as a journalist. In 1836, he published his first novel, The Pickwick Papers, which was an instant success. Dickens went on to write many more novels, all of which were immensely popular. He also wrote short stories, plays, and travel essays.

Dickens died in 1870 at the age of 58. He is considered one of the greatest English novelists of all time. His works continue to be read and enjoyed by people all over the world.

Plot of the Play :

In the fictional town of Coketown, England, during the Industrial Revolution, utilitarianism reigns supreme. Thomas Gradgrind, a wealthy businessman and educator, believes that everything in life can be explained by facts and logic. He raises his children, Louisa and Tom, according to this philosophy, and they grow up to be cold and emotionless adults.

Stephen Blackpool, a kind and honest factory worker, is struggling to survive in the harsh conditions of Coketown. He is injured in an accident at work and is fired by his employer, Josiah Bounderby. Stephen is unable to find a new job and is eventually accused of a crime he did not commit.

Louisa is forced to marry Bounderby, even though she does not love him. She becomes increasingly unhappy and eventually leaves him. Tom steals money from Bounderby and flees the country.

In the end, Stephen is found innocent of the crime he was accused of, but he is killed in a mining accident. Louisa is reunited with her former teacher, Mr. Sleary, who helps her to find happiness and fulfillment.

Play Review:

Question :

Review of the Hindi Play based on "Hard Times" :

The Hindi Play based on "Hard Times"  By Charles Dickens is a musical adaptation of Dickens's novel of the same name, performed and organised by Khilona Theater for Children. Which is directed by Kiran Deep Sharma and performed by various artists. 

Let's see list of people who worked hard for this play adaptation:

Direction and costume design:- - Kiran Deep Sharma

Adaptation and editing - V.K. Sharma, Kiran Deep Sharma Lyrics V.K. Sharma

Music direction - Kashish Sharma

Voice training and flute - Esra Seher Jung

You can find this full video here :

Now let's see cast of the play :

  Cast:-

Aarti Vasan - Jane and Josephine

Aakash Hingorani - Josiah Bounderby, clown

Abhishekh - Childers, Jupe, doctor. Chitra clown, Mrs. Pegler -

Isha Mrs. Gradgrind, Mrs. Sparsit -

Jyotsana - Louisa

Kajori - Rachel

KiranDeep Sharma - singer

Kunal - Tom, clown

Lakshya Goel - Stephen, narrator, stuntman Prakash Mr. Sleary, James Harthouse.

Pulkit - butler, clown

Santosh - Dilkhush, circus crowd

Saif Bitzer, stuntman Sajid Anwer Mr. Choakumchild, Kidder, Stephen's wife

Shubham - Sissy

Sudipto Banerjee - Mr. Gradgrind

V.K. Sharma - narrator

( This information is given at discription of video)

I personally like this play performance because it depicted ideas of the writer very well. By this play All audience can connect that what writer actually wants to tell their readers. 

While watching the play we all can feel that we all can connect with Dickens message trough the play. On the other hand we also find that there is Indian Masala in the play performance. That means we can generally know that in Indian Dramatilogy one can find importance f Sutradhar and Nat, who introduced events and connect readers & audience with events of the play. 

In this play we can also find there is one Sutradhar, arrives at starting of the play, where he inform the audience about the setting and backgrounds of the play ,  Where we can find that this is the story about the place  the fictional town of Coketown, England, and he also shares conversation with Nat. By their conversation background of the story reveals. 

 In the beginning they also talk about story and fiction. In their conversation they depicted beautiful connection between Horse and Imagination. They  mentioned that each and every story teaches us something we just pick up good things from it by our own Imagination. 

And after that scene opens and they take us to the story. 

The opening scene of the novel starts with this line :

"Now what I want is facts. Teach this boys and girls nothing but facts"

This line leads us towards the main theme of the novel. And audience started thinking towards it. 

Like the novel the play also has three part:

1. Sowing
2. Reaping
3. Garnering

While at some events we can find they uses songs for describing narration :

Let's see one of it's Songs :

 

This song presents the reality of industrial and materialistic life. 

कमाल की कहानी यह हेतो बड़ी पुरानी जी।

पर गौर से जो देखेंगे तो साफ नजर आयेगी सच्चाई इसमें आजकी।

छू न जाए छाव अगर आप को ये आजाकी तो जो चाहे वो कहेना जी।

तो चार्ल्स डिकेन्स की तरह हम भी क्यों न करे कल्पना कॉकटाउन जैसे शहर की।

रंग जहां की नदी के निर्मल पानी का भी हो चुका ही बैंगनी,

ये मशीनी कारखानों का जमाना यूं समझो कि आज का है।

मैटेरियलिज्म पेर अपने अच्छी तरह जमा चुका है।

हर व्यापारी नेता को ये खेल समझ में आ चुका है।

आए हो इस दुनिया में तो कम करो कुछ ऐसा,

हाथो हाथ माल बीके, अच्छे खासे दाम मिले,

ताकि और ज्यादा हो मुनाफा।

Emotions, imagination या compassion से कभी, पेट किसका भरता है क्या?

इनके बदले डॉलर या फिर पाउंड किसी को मिलता है क्या?

इसीलिए तो नजर में इनकी करना और सहानुभूति या किसी से हमदर्दी चीजें हैं बेकार की?

पर गौर से जो देखेंगे तो साफ नजर आयेगी सच्चाई इसमें आजकी।

The final song :

So let's see is the final song of the play which is about the general outcome of the play.

अमीर हो गरीब हो चाहे, है आखिर इंसान।

बेल नही हम जो करे भाग भाग के काम, रात-दिन सुबह-शाम।

इसीलिए हम करे जगन, Tension थोड़ी हो कम।

कुछ तो मोज-मस्ती हो, या कोई ऐसा खेल-तमाशा।

सोच पुरानी बदले जो, नई सोच से करे शुरुआत।

किसकी है ये जिम्मेदारी, कौन करेगा 

कल्पना के घोड़े पर बैठे मिलकर साथ सब

दुनियाभर की सैर करे,

और दुसरो की गलतीओ से के सबक…

हर पेचीदा सवालों के जवाब ढूंढे हस्ते-हस्ते

ताकि सबकी जिंदगी में कुछ तो पड़े फरक।

Conclusion:

Thus we can say that, This play encourages us to contemplate the message conveyed by Dickens. Watching this performance helps us realize that a seemingly lifeless story on paper can come alive through exceptional acting and a compelling presentation. If you notice any mistakes, please feel free to let me know.

Thank you for reading 😊🙏🏻

Happy Learning 😊

"Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded" by Samuel Richardson

 Hello Everyone 😊

This Blog is in response to the thinking activity assigned by Vaidehi  Ma'am.

To Check the task :  Click here

Introduction : 

"Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded" is a novel written by Samuel Richardson. It was first published in 1740. We can see that it is often considered one of the earliest and most significant novels in the English language. The story revolves around Pamela Andrews, a young servant girl who faces many difficulties in her life.  

So, In this blog we are going to discuss the question that we all have in our mind that, 

"If Pamela was in the contemporary time, will the story take any changes?" 

If we study a work it is very important to know about its author, so let us find out about the author of this novel.

Samuel Richardson :

Samuel Richardson (1689-1761) was an English novelist and printer, best known for his pioneering work in the development of the modern novel. He is often regarded as one of the founders of the novel as a literary form. Richardson's most famous works include "Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded" (1740) and "Clarissa, or, the History of a Young Lady" (1748). These novels were known for their intricate character development and epistolary style, where the story is told through a series of letters. Richardson's contributions to the novel genre had a significant influence on later writers, and his works continue to be studied and admired for their psychological depth and narrative innovation.

If we want to compare the character of the story with today's era then we need to know the story as well.  So let us get a small glimpse of the story of this novel :

The story of The Novel " "Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded" :

Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded is a 1740 epistolary novel by Samuel Richardson. It tells the story of a 15-year-old maidservant named Pamela Andrews, whose employer, Mr. B, a wealthy landowner, makes unwanted and inappropriate advances towards her after the death of his mother.

Pamela resists Mr. B's advances, despite his threats and punishments. She writes letters to her parents, describing her situation and asking for their advice. Pamela's parents are supportive, and they urge her to remain virtuous.

Eventually, Mr. B realizes that he is in love with Pamela. He proposes to her, and she accepts. They are married, and Pamela becomes the Wife of Mr. B's estate.

"Pamela" is significant for its exploration of themes related to class, gender, virtue, and social mobility. 

Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded was a revolutionary novel in its time. It was one of the first novels to feature a working-class protagonist, and it was also one of the first novels to explore the issue of sexual harassment.

Question : 

      If Pamela was in the contemporary time, will the story take any changes?

   Yes,  If Pamela was in the contemporary time, the story will take several changes to reflect the realities and social dynamics of the 21st century. 

     Let's see that how "Pamela" Represented today's time :

       As we see in this story Pamela is writing a letter to her parents talking about her heartache or her daily life.  

     But if Pamela lived in today's age, she would definitely use the newly developed technology to communicate with her parents, wouldn't she?

    

      If Pamela were alive today, she would definitely use today's newly developed technology to communicate. Such  as If she was alive in today's era, she would have communicated and used a lot of different features like WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, messaging apps etc.

      In the story Pamela is a servant and as a servant she keeps herself within a limit and cannot speak her mind fiercely when she is wronged or coerced.

     But we know that Pamela is bound by her limits but Pamela is not weak or weak. She presents her point and succeeds in securing her virtue.

     If Pamela was alive today, she'd definitely use the law to protect herself and her rights. She'd also use the law to make sure she was protected in exchange for her job.

   As we read Pamela's account, we can't help but sense that, compared to her own time, contemporary society's ideals have altered even more. That is to say, the definition and context of values in today's world have changed for individuals.  That being said, there are still a lot of people in the modern world that think similarly to the characters in Pamela. 

   If Pamela was living in today's time and also if she was living in India, she would have either studied and done a good job by taking advantage of some government scheme and either developed her own skills and started her own startup and maybe she would have been called Mr. BJ.  would not have had to work under the supervision of a cruel master.

  Pamela is the finest example of a modern-day woman who has achieved empowerment. Additionally, it would have given them the courage to speak up against the oppression of all women, including themselves.  Additionally, she had the option to digitally communicate the acts of violence against herself with her friends, family, and other supporters. Additionally, she could have got a digital solution from them.  Her journey could inspire others to stand up against harassment and pursue their goals.

   The modern version of the story might look at other ways to show virtue outside of marriage as the best way to show it. For example, if Pamela decides to pursue her own career, get an education, or just focus on her personal growth, she might feel more confident. So, the lesson of the story might be that if you're not married, you can still show your virtue without having to get married.

         

   I want to give an example : 

       If Pamela were alive in this day and age, she would be a part of the #MeToo movement and would be sharing the stories of the crimes that were done to her to show the world what kind of people are out there and to motivate others.

      Conclusion :

         If Pamela was in the contemporary time, the story will definitely take some changes such as the story of “Pamela” or “The Virtue Rewarded” would be presented in a different way, taking into account different aspects of technology, social conventions, social politics, human psychology, and other aspects of other cultures and societies.