Frankenstein Chapter Summaries

chapter 1-  Introduced to Frankenstein and his family, gives us context of life he was living (only child). we learn about his Genevese origins. description of his father Alphonso Frankenstein a wealthy and respected benevolent man that rescued Frankenstein's mother.

• Introduced to a loving relationship between Frankenstein's parents- important as relationship between parents can affect a child's experiences as they tend to pass these traits on later. 
• Adoption of an orphan girl Elizabeth being raised by a peasant family. See Frankensteins attachment to his 'more than sister'... 'till death she was to be mine only' - this could be a first insight into control and power before the creation of his creature. creates a protective mind, though we haven't seen the interaction between them yet. 

Theme- Freedom, as a child he has no worries, from a wealthy middle/upper class family has stability. The power of having wealth and opportunities enables him to explore.

• Morality, Shelly presents him as a very self-centered, sheltered.

chapter 2-We see the perfect serenity of his childhood with his family, as two more children are introduced.

• The contrast of characters, Frankenstein being more academic in a sense of having the 'thirst for knowledge'. 
• very independent character 'it was my temper to avoid a crowd, and to attach my self fervently to a few.' this could then develop as to why he becomes socially incompetent. His lack of social skills makes him impaired to the norms and values of society. 
• ' harmony was the soul of our companionship...drew us nearer together'.Could this be a fascination to Frankenstein to find someone who is opposite to his character but can keep him content. Or is this highlighting his control of independence as well as dependence of a positive character in life. 
• 'natural philosophy' - a break down in structure goes on to talk about learning and the book that he has read, which highlights his thirst for knowledge. Becomes fixated about the world around him and the discoveries of nature and electricity.

• Age of 13- becomes interested in how life evolved on the planet, studies theories of life and human creations. ' the world was to me a secret which i desired to divine.' the knowledge of new information makes him happier, though fate has other plans for him.

Context- 18th century, development of natural philosophy shows how discoveries were coming about, can be seen as motivation or inspiration for Frankenstein. Refers to Cornelus Agripa known to be a sinister magician.

Theme- Knowledge, childhood.

Chapter 3-  At the age of 17, Frankenstein moves away to Ingolstadt for college, when Elizabeth got scarlet fever, as well as the loss of his mother.'the first misfortune of my life occurred- an omen,as it were my future of misery'.

• Loneliness of Frankenstein develops 'I was new to sorrow'. Though we see him more engaged with his studying. See his nervousness of being along from everyone he loved, but finding the Professor which he befriends, see how devoted they are to studying. Another downfall chapter 3, page 34 'the labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed,scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind' M Waldman was wrong. 

chapter 4- See how Frankenstein becomes to determine to figure out the source of where life comes from. He considers going back home because his studies become so advanced.  Frankenstein discovers essence of life, but refuses to reveal it to Walton as he fears that he will follow the idea.  "Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow."

•  After Frankenstein realises what gives life, he experiments with creating a human being. The construction takes place 'I succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life.' 
• the breakdown of interaction with his family begins to fade, his health declines from the constant labour, little rest, poor diet. Refuses to stop working see his obsession and control, which develops the psychological attachment.

Chapter 5-Frankensteins creation comes to life and illusions of grandeur were vanished by the hideousness of the beast. the contrast of the creature having good and bad elements, can be interpreted as complementing Frankensteins personality. As well as an understanding of people and the reality of life people being judgmental. His perfect creation was a frightening disaster. "For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart." Chapter 5, pg. 42 Frankenstein fled his laboratory and collapsed in his room. He woke from a nightmare to see the monster standing over him, smiling with his hideous, black lips.     

  

Chapter 6- In the letter, Elizabeth begs for a letter from Frankenstein to assure his family that he was well. Frankenstein misses out on life, misses the progression with his family. The long description of the hardships of Justine Moritz. Frankenstein avoids his scientific studies as it reminds him of the disastrous experiment. 

• further extension of loneliness. Page 55. 

Chapter 7- Letter is revealed from Alphonso about his brothers murder, found his strangled body in the woods. The locket worn can be seen as a motivation for the murder, leaving Elizabeth feeling responsible fro this- displacing guilt.Frankenstein is well aware of the monster being Williams murderer. though Justine is accused, we see a change in the character of Frankenstein tackling the world on his own has bought him to become selfish, ignorant but guilt is prevalent.

• Pages 62-3 
• Use of letters break down structure, tells story from a different perspective builds imagery of scenes as well as revealing emotions. (pages 56-7). 

Chapter 8 - Justine's trial explains all the evidence but not the evidence of the locket. She is still acquitted and executed. The guilt builds up of two deaths on his conscience. Frankenstein knew then that it was only the beginning of their sorrow and he was responsible for all of it but unaware of how to prevent it. "[He] beheld those [he] loved spend vain sorrow upon the graves of William and Justine, the first hapless victims to [his unhallowed arts." Chapter 8, pg. 73.

• 'Prophetic soul'- echoes Hamlet in Act 1 scene 5 line 41 where the ghost of Hamlets Father tells him of his murder by Claudius ans lays upon his sons the burden of revenge.

Theme- Innocence, confession all linked with religion.

CONTEXT- AO4 

 Prometheus and Paradise Lost
Prometheus is told to create mankind using mud and water. He is a great benefactor to mankind teaching them astrology and architecture etc. Though he stole fire from Zeus and gave it to the mortals, his punishment was to be bounded by a rock and on each day an eagle would come and peck out his liver which it then grew back and this continuously happened.  

    Frankenstein is viewed as the 'Modern Prometheus' stealing fire ffrom the Gods made him an admired figure among writers . Shares similarities with Frankenstein is told by Zeus to make a creation of humanity from mud and water, Victor creates a monster.  Also how he steals fire by harnessing the power of lightening to animate his monster.  Prometheus defies the supreme being and continues to purse knowledge (symbolises fire) until it has its consequences which parallels going against nature the way Frankenstein does.

    Both are given gifts/powers such as Frankenstein is given intelligence and Prometheus is given trust though they both disobey the power given.

Paradise lost- form of a long poem, which tells the story of Adam, Eve and Satan. Satan uses the ability to talk to destroy the Earth.

• God creates the world and Adam and Eve, Frankenstein is the parallel to the character of being 'God'.  He is seen as a more obsessive creator and self centered. The creature ca identify with Satan and Adam to be born perfect creatures but betray by committing sins. 
• The creature being rejected shows the rejection of Adam and Eve.

Mary Shelley- Born in London 1797. Born into a wealthy family her mum being a feminist writer and father a philosopher,her mother died when Shelley was at a young age.

•  she was always trying to come up with ideas for a horror story, had discussions about Darwin's theory of evolution with Lord Byron. She had a nightmare which developed the story of Frankenstein.    
• Wrote the novel at the age of 19, as a woman it was published anonymously. 
• Married Percy Shelley. 
• Died in Bournemouth 1851.

Religious and Philosophical contexts
Christianity- painful or perfect eternal life that awaits after death, meaning heaven or hell.
Frankenstein- After life has been revoked the creation of a new creature.

•  plays God by creating the creature
• monster has a soul whether he goes to heaven or hell though he wasn't born naturally.

Philosophical- 'Origin of species'  Darwin's idea of evolution.
- society became liberal so people stopped going to church.

Scientific- Challenges the view thats God is powerful and challenges human creation.
- Science is being attacked by Mary Shelley because of its arrogance.

Superstition- Dracula, Dr Jekyl and Mr Hyde.
-fear of Frankenstein.

Romanticism
- Imagination and emotion over rationality.
- Exciting and mysterious quality.
- Pushing the boundary.
- Marginalised.
- Value nature.

French  Revolution- Due to revolution and deficits. Le roi te touche, dieu te guient- If Kings influences on Britain: Rights of man, social reform, social reform, social class system, Britain constitution.
-Frankenstein unruly passion to chase after something that was out of his control.
-Product of unchecked intellectual ambition which missled him into a hollow existence.
-criticism of slavery and abolition in the 1800's.

Act 5- Reading Journal

Scene 1- Introduced to the the scene of Lady Macbeth being seen by doctors, we see her vulnerable state of the guilt overriding her, where she is constantly motioning her hands 'washing her hands. I have known her continue in this a quarter of an hour'. Relating to the film helps build a strong sense of imagery upon Lady Macbeth feeling isolated, guilty almost sick. 'Will these hands ne'erbe clean'. Line 42.
   Lady M. falls into a deep psychological state 'here's the smell of blood still.' Shes mentally and traumatised by the all the killings and bloodshed, though she hasn't committed the acts herself she portrays the guilty mind. As debated in class the psychology of Macbeth and Lady M embodying one character carry different elements Macbeth is the physical part of the crimes, Lady M is the thinking behind all of this.
Structure- The way in which Lady M. speaks appear to be misplaced, jagged she isn't aware of her full surrounding.

Scene 3-
Macbeth's focus on continuing the war as well as trying to handle Lady M, the pressure builds up, Macbeth becomes reckless with his killing doesn't really show much thinking behind who he kills compared to Act one when so much detail was planned and though out logically.

• See the bond between Lady M and Macbeth, once again coming back to the theory of two bodies in one, we see the bond between their communication, see hoe Macbeth relies and needs Lady M as a backbone to his body and conscience. 
• Language- language of sickness, cleansing, repenting.

       ' mind diseased' line 40
        'troubles of the brain' line 42
        'cleanse the stuffed bosom' line 44
        
Scene 4- The prophecy of the witches comes true once again.

Scene 5- See Macbeth's emotional side behind all the drama and killings, a moment of reflection ' I have almost forgot the taste of fears'. See how he becomes careless to all the killings taking place. Linking to sociology theorist 'Katz' mentions how crime is seductive. Killing becomes a thrill to Macbeth the guilt is ignored, the seductiveness becomes a priority to achieve self satisfaction and dominance.

•  Death of Lady M. Lie 25 'Life's but a walking shadow' interpretations:
• the shadow of Lady M, always over powering and having some control over the actions of Macbeth.
• Lady Macbeth being the Backbone to Macbeth, her absence makes Macbeth feel empty, life isn't worth living.
• Life can be interpreted as being a quick moment. 
• a candle being blown out.
• 'Signifying nothing'- nihilism, Macbeth rejects the moral and religious values and principles

Macbeth mentions the equivocator, which goes back to Act 2 Scene 3, the ringing of the bell, knows he's going to hell.
  
'There is not flying hence nor tarrying here, I'gin to be aweary of the sun' Line 49 - Greek mythology.

Scene 6- War begins, Macbeth is then Killed with his head in the hands of Malcolm.
See how Macbeth slowly gives himself up.

Overall notes-
Play contradicts how it starts with Macbeth being a a nobleman end with him being a traitor. A key moral thats highlighted is that the course of fate cannot be changed, which is controlled and highlighted by the Witches. Highlights a self fulfilling prophecy all the killings and acts committed that go against his nature, once he believes and sees the person he has become he accepts the label. Lady M, has a key role in this by labeling him as a coward early in the play, adds pressure to become something he isn't.

Act 4- R eading Journal

Act 4,Scene 1

• We realise for a change how Macbeth visits the witches, its been reveres usually we would see the witches overshadowing him. 
• starting of with the charm sets out tension for the rest of the scene.
• Macbeth is in almost in demand to know whats set out for the future, who the next killing is. We see how the witches have control over Macbeth, they may be the trigger to all the killings through manipulation. 
• A set of aspirations a presented by the witches which reveal Macbeth's false sense of security:
• First aspiration is an armed head which warns Macbeth from Macduff. 
• The second is a bloody child, who tells him that 'none of woman born/ shall harm Macbeth' lines 79-80.
• Third aspiration is a crowned child with a tree in its hand lines 91 onwards- 'Macbeth shall never be vanquished...him'. This can also be seen to drive Macbeth even more he knows that no one can move a forest, he then goes on to ask will Banquo's children be kings, a moment of jealousy... though he could be planning who to cut off the scene next
• Language used by Macbeth seems masculine, strong and takes the role of asserting his dominance. Intent to kill portrays it to the reader as sickening.
• Macduff has fled to England, revenge is done by killing his family. We see Macbeth's thought processes as automatically decisive where as at the beginning of the play Lady M. has to encourage him and be the backbone of the killings. 

Act 4, Scene 2

• Lady Macduff is told her children will be fatherless, she tries to inform her son about this though he has a lot more wisdom for his age than what the audience expect.
• 'The liars and swearers are fools; for there are liars and swearers enow to beat the honest men and hang.Line 58- said by Macduff's son, the first child that actually speaks in the play as well as surviving. see child's thought processes of moral understanding- presents child morality and innocence... Later the son is killed. 

Act 4, Scene 3

• Message that Scotland is about to be attacked b ten thousand men.When Macduff meets Malcolm remembering the misplaced trust in Macbeth...comparison is made Malcolm admits his lust, greed ad sin which presents Macbeth as an angel.
• Macduff is unaware of the death of his wife and Children, told they are 'at peace' which triggers to get revenge upon Macbeth urged by Malcolm.

 General Notes: Witches further extend the theme of doubling and equivocation, gives the effect that their speeches have double meanings, paradox and equivocation.

• The aspirations are equivocal messages to Macbeth, and they consciously know that he will only understand half of the words. Doesn't take the aspirations into account as much as he does with the witches prophecies and thinking if they will come true.
• When the murder scene takes place Lady Macduff makes references to the symbol of the bird. 'The poor wren.. the most diminutive of birds, will fight... owl.' Line 10. The metaphor becomes realistic when both are attacked. Also earlier Macbeth being the owl, with Lady Macduff trung to protect her son, becomes the wren. Its a pathos to the audience as wee see Macbeths son acting out the prey to Macbeth's murders.

Act 3 Reading Journal

Act 3,Scene 1- Suspicion of Macbeth killing the King to fulfill the witches prophecy is raised by Banquo.

•  Macbeth sets up to assassinate Banquo and Fleance.  
• Line 48- Macbeth's soliloquy ... 'barren sceptre'- phallic object, unable to have children with Lady Macbeth, which could be seen as a punishment.
• 'Fruitless crown'- having no crown at all, reflecting upon the prophecy of Banqu's children becoming future kings.  
• 'Mark Antony's was by Caesar'- Whilst Macbeth compares him and Banquo to these characters. Octavius Caesar (Banquo) defeated Mark Antony in the civil wars.
• line 66- 'Put rancours in the vessel of my peace'- Rancours- hostility which are poisonous to the soul. Macbeth s actions have poisoned the vessel of peace.

Act 3, Scene 2- 'Naught's had,all's spent, where our desire is got without content.' Her mind is still fixated upon the Killing of Duncan, she confesses that nothing is gained from this, everything is losing their reach.  

•  Line 36- O, full of scorpions is my mind.' See the mental state of Macbeth, the feeling of guilt and confusion takes over as they will have to kill more people to become satisfied and cover up stories.
• Lines 52-55 use of rhyming couplets.

Act 3, Scene 3- Killing of Banquo takes place. Macbeth's state of mind is jagged reflects upon the killing being very unorganised.

Act 3 Scene 4 - Macbeth is the only one to witness Banquo's ghost at the dinner table. Lines 68-70 'Prithee,see there! Behold!Look!Lo!...' His shock and horror is covered up by lady M. saying that Macbeth is going through a lot of stress. 

• See a change in structure and speech patterns each time the ghost appears, Macbeth becomes apprehensive and agitated.
• L.M blames his hallucinations upon the lack of sleep, though its Macbeth producing a guilty conscience as said in previous act 'Macbeth shall sleep no more'.

Act 3, Scene 5-  Hecat- Goddess takes over with the prophecies of Macbeth, they aim to fill him with a false sense of security  line 29 -'draw him on to his confusion'.

• Rhyme scheme becomes consistent again, making a charm for Macbeth.
• Hecat also symbolises the corruption of Scotland's political and moral health.     

Act 3, Scene 6- Both Lennox and another Lord suspect that Macbeth is responsible for the murder of Duncan and Banquo. See Macbeth as a 'tyrant'.

Act 2 Reading Journal

• Act 2, Scene 1-  Macbeth's soliloquy of imaginary daggers builds curiosity upon the audience, this can be seen a a cue/ prod for Macbeth committing the act of killing Duncan.
• Get to see the mental state of Macbeth as he is alone on stage, this tends to be when characters are open to express feelings. ' Heat oppressed brain' interpreted as an act happening 'in the heat of the moment' . Though During Renaissance periods, heat was considered as a fluid that would literally press against the brain causing a fever or delirium. 
• Language- 'Gouts of blood' used in a rich context puts a lot of emphasis when pronouncing as well. Comes from Latin term 'gutta' meaning large droplets or splashes that are gushing or bursting.
• 'wicked dreams abuse' - mind tourmenting, psychological. 
• Structure- Macbeth's soliloquy, has no rhyming structure at all, apart from the last two lines (rhyming couplets). Adds to the effect of not knowing his state of mind. The illusion of daggers is in the unconscious creates a tone of confusion.
• Act 2, Scene 2- Evidence of Lady Macbeth producing a guilty conscience the fast pace of recalling after lines, shows character intensity and anxiety. 
• Lines 43-4 'Murdered sleep'....'Macbeth shall sleep no more' - Macbeth begins to accept what has been done, the idea of him not sleeping is him repenting for his sins. Also, the prophecies will keep delivering, Killing more people to keep secrets safe.
• Act 2, Scene 3- Porter Scene, offers a comical aspect to the play. Breaks down the structure creates a comical situation out of something serious.
• Lady Macbeth diverts the attention from the Killing being exposed by Macbeth. Line 103 onwards... Lady: (swooning).
• Act 2, Scene 4- Discovery of King Duncan's Death.

Biblical References:

• Act2, Scene 1, Lines 72-4 'The bell invites me. Hear it not, Duncan for it is a knell. That summons thee to heaven or hell.Macbeth is about to send King Duncan to his judgment before God.' In Mathews25.31 were told: ' when the son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angles with him, then he shall sit upon the throne of his glory and before him shall be gathered all nations... to be judged.
• Act 2, Scene 1, Line 56  onwards, shows how Macbeth is unaware of his crimes though the heavens and the earths are aware. References to the Habakkuk 2.10,11 'Thou hast consulted shame to thine own house, by destroying many people, and hast sinned against thine own soule. For the stones shall cry out of the wall and the beam out of his timbre shall answer it'. The Noise reveals Macbeth's intentions.

Animal References:

• Act 2, Scene 2, Line 3 'It was the owl that shriek'd, the fatal bellman.' The hoot of an owl flying over someones house was an evil omen and meant impending death for someone inside. The referral to the bellman,shows that it was the bellman's job to ring the Parrish bell when a person was facing death.  
• Act 2, Scene 4, Line 14 'Duncan's horses'- betrayal with the former kings men. Horses are a symbol of loyalty and nobility .
• 'A falcon towering in her pride' representation of Lady M. Shows the power and control she has over Macbeth, but the nobility of such a creature is something she strives for.  

Shakespeare's use of animal imagery tells the play from another view point, used as a motif throughout the play to capture whats happening. Also convey what may happen in future events.

What are the Gothic elements in Act One of Macbeth? (Reading Journal for Act 1)

The first Gothic element we are introduced to is the setting o the play which is a key part as it sets the mood and tone for the audience. Automatically 'Thunder and lightning. Enter three witches.' A ere vibe is given off which leaves the audience to feel uncomfortable and slightly scared. The beginning starts off with the witches which shows mystery an mischief, the way the speak is in a steady rhyming pace which could also suggest the way they connect with each other and it gives the impression of a casting spell. 'Fair is foul, and foul is fair.' The phrase is almost like a tongue twisting spell which conveys death and cruelty. The three witches lurk around like the dark thoughts and temptations to evil. They play upon the ambitions Macbeth has. The audience is left to think at the end of Scene One, are the witches independent agents toying with human life, or agents of fate.

The references to animals are made throughout Act one, though they are animals of strong characters or features. For example in Scene 2, line 36 'As sparrows, eagles, or the hare, the lion. Then we have the Animal reference to the Raven. The raven is a strong symbol in mythology, art and literature. Though in some beliefs it is seen as the spiritual figure of God. The animal interpretations could be highlighting Macbeth's deep and dark character in the play.

The use of foul bitter language also adds emphasis the Gothic elements. Especially from Lady Macbeth, from a woman in the time that this was written, her status would be very little and she wouldn't be mentioned much in the play. she would be seen as an object not a person. Her strive for power, control take lead of her which reveals her masculine side, though it could be argued that Macbeth and Lady M. could be two sides to one body. For example in Act 1 Scene 5 ' unsex me here and fill me from the crown to the toe top-full of direst cruelty.' Her desire to have the body of a man and fill her with cruelty, yet she doesn't want to feel guilt for her actions. This is a typical Gothic style in literature, the lust for violence and inhumane actions but at the same time characters gain a thrill. 

Key things to remember for this act:

• Introduction to the three witches.
• Macbeth has been given a prophecy by the three witches that he will become king. 
• Lady Macbeth is introduced- we see how she is as a character, shes stronger, ruthless and ambitious than Macbeth. 
• Plan to kill King Duncan.
• Language used by Shakespeare, Language contradiction is used at times with the witches 'fair is foul, and foul is fair'. Also used by Banquo 'Lesser than Macbeth, and greater'. Adds to a sense of moral confusion that their surroundings seem to be obscure.  
• Form- Use of Soliloquy- shows dramatic tension, the focus on one character is a lot more powerful. Portrays more feelings and emotions, especially Lady Macbeth. 
• Gothic Links- Can be compared to Modern day Gothic/horror films which we see how gender role have changed, women are more confrontational and out spoken, where as Lady Macbeth is held back a lot because of her role as a female. She wants to take the role of being masculine. 'unsex me'.

Themes present so far...

Corrupting power and Ambition- Macbeth's character is over ridden by power, Lady Macbeth, the issue of Morals constrains seems to be ignored.
Loyalty- Macbeth being loyal to the king, as well as being a loyal and devoted husband to Lady Macbeth. Feels a sense of pressure to take the role of a man, when being insulted against his manhood by his wife.

Marxist approach to my coursework text :A thousand Splendid Suns

Marxism approach of A Thousand Splendid Suns-

Marxism is an economic and socio-political worldview and method of socioeconomic inquiry that centers upon a materialist interpretation of history, a dialect view of social change, and an analysis and critique of the development of capitalism. Marxism was found in the early to mid 19th century by two German philosophers, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. Marxism encompasses Marxian economic theory, a sociological theory and a revolutionary view of social change that has influenced socialist political movements worldwide.

Marxism sees society as a super structure in which the economic base determines the shape of the super structure of all social institutions.  Society is based on the conflict of inequality and wealth and power, which underpins capitalist society and the conditions with in such a system explain why people turn to crime or act deviant. In the novel we see how society becomes distorted due to the new ruling of the Taliban as well as the change and development of a corrupt government. The decade-long war led to the deaths of over a million mujahedeen fighters and Afghan civilians and 14,000 Russian soldiers before the Soviet withdrawal in 1989. The Taliban regime that came to power, as well as Al-Qaida, originated from the noxious mix of US-sponsored anti-communist foreign policy in the region during this period. This is entirely omitted in Hosseini’s narrative, as he all but erases US complicity in the fate of modern Afghanistan.

  

Society is divided into two different classes the bourgeoisies the ruling class and the proletarians, the working class. The Marxist argue that an imbalance between these classes will always be a problem in society, majority of the working class are set up to fail in a capitalist society and a few will make it to the top. The bourgeoisie is able to keep its power partly through its ability to use the law to criminalise working class activities. The laws are not expressions of value consensus as the functionalist would say, but they a reflection of ruling class ideology. The laws are only made if they are in the interest of the ruling class.

Afghanistan was once a society where women were free to walk in the streets without being guided by a male figure shadowing them. Since the ruling of the Taliban genders become unequal women’s rights banish. This uncovers valuable social truths through the lives of the main characters. The reader gets an impression of the incredibly precarious existence of young people during the most recent period through the fate of Laila and Tariq. But above all, it lays bare the truly horrendous existence of women and girls. The power is passed on to men. Marxism focuses a lot on the strive for ‘power and control’ we see this in the relationships with Mariam and Rasheed. Mariam becomes powerless her status as an illegitimate child stays with her throughout her life, she feels punished for this mistake as she cannot give Rasheed a child. Rasheed becomes an aggressive, controlling violent. The recent attempts by the Afghan parliament with President Hamid Karzai’s initial support to enact a law that would forbid women from leaving their homes without male consent and would sanctify marital rape, recalls Taliban era proclamation.

Theory of alienation- refers to the separation of things that naturally belong together, or to put hate between things that are properly in harmony. In the concept's most important use, it refers to the social alienation of people from aspects of their "human nature" (Gattungswesen, usually translated as 'species-essence' or 'species-being'). He believed that alienation is a systematic result of capitalism. Theory of Alienation is the argument that in modern industrial production under capitalist conditions workers will inevitably lose control of their lives by losing control over their work

Just a bit more on my novelssss :)

 Daughters of Shame- Jasvinder Sanghera

I have started to look into another novel, Daughters Of Shame by Jasvinder Sanghera. I am currently on chapter six, already i feel so engaged in this book. Its about many young asian girls from the age 17 and lower who are forced into arranged marriages. We are told about their experiences and stories of how they escaped these tragic events, as well as how such acts as running away can have an affect upon the family honour, pride and respect. Jasvinder Sanghera was also a victim of having an arranged marriage, we see how she becomes an inspiration to the younger girls, by offering a sign of hope. She runs a help centre in which these girls are able to freely express themselves, and release their pain and sufferings of violent attacks and verbal abuse.

    What interested me about this book was how the stories constantly developed into other characters being introduced and hearing their stories which were all different. It showed the diversity of ages, family backgrounds and cultural differences. What plays a big part is the idea of living in a sexist environment, boys in asian families are always presented as the superior sex. 

   I am really enjoying this novel, but I am still indecisive about using this novel fro coursework as its written very simplistically.

A Thousand Splendid Suns- Khaled Hosseini

 Reading through Part Three, I have seen how each chapter focuses on Laila and Mariam seperately but they are both a part of eachothers lives now. Both girls are introduced as Laila is found injured beneath a pile of rubble. Laila becomes  Rasheeds second wife as he begins to think havin an unmarried woman in the house will effect his reputation. Though this can also be an excuse for Rasheed to have children that Mariam could'nt give him.

   We begin to explore the relationship between the three characters and how they survive under the same household.

Mariam and Laila: We see Mariams normal character, caring, loving and putting in all her efforts in to provide and nurture Laila. We can see her discomfort she refers to Laila as 'the girl' though this could reveal her jealousy as Rasheed's attention is adverted towards Laila a lot more. Mariams vicious character is revealetd when Laila and Rasheed become a married couple. 'A thieving whore,that's what you are!'. Mariam's character changes in a light that we havent seen before, jealousy, cruel, and becomes a lot more envious towards Laila.

Laila and Rasheed: We see how Rasheed is alarmed by the appearence of Laila. His character changes to the time when we were first introduced to him. A caring, relaxed person. He is a content man as his wife can provide him with pleasure as well as children. 'Gul' meaning flower is used a lot by him, which shows his appreciation of Mariam and her beauty. 
   Rasheed begins to have doubts in his mind upon their baby Aziza, thinking it is Tariqs child though Laila is oblivious to his interpretations. Hosseini uses Rasheeds comment to Laila about not attaching herself to Aziza as the child death rate in Afghanistan is vey high, we begin to see the condition of Afghanistan since the war has took place. As the theme of poverty is shown throughout the novel there are certain points in which Hossieni uses jarring comparisons between Afghanistan and the western world.
Rasheed and Mariam: Their relationship is the same, Rasheed fails to acknowledge Mariam's presence as his first wife, she is still the same 'harami' girl (bastard child) we how she still experiences neglect as she cannot fulfil the wishes of her husband.

This Novel has developed a lot more, as there is more interaction between the three main characters. Also it develops as Part 1 and Part 2 bring Part 3 together, which I thought was a really clever idea as it breaks the novel down so the reader is able to understand what is happening and how the characters link within eachother. The novel develops with the war and the surroundings, which play a big part as the women become more isolated from society as well as Rasheed. I like the way Hosseini shows the development of peoples surroundings as well as the individuals, it makes the novel seem realistic as society can affect a person in many ways. Women now become afraid as the war has got worse, and innocent women as getting killed as well as raped.

Themes:

Pregancy and Children: Hosseini uses this as a symbol of hope and happiness upon Laila as her character remains positive. As she can see a reflection of Tariq which gives her reassurance that he may be alive. Also Aziza gives Laila hope to run away and find Tariq through stealing money from Rasheed.
  Though fertility and infertility has a traditional meaning upon Afghan women. A womens value in Afghanistan is based upon whether she is able to provide her husband with a family, especially boys.
 Female Bonds: The bond between Mariam and Laila strengthens, when Mariam sees Azia laying down wide awake beside her mother. The grasp of holding a child relaxes the connection that her and Laila have. We see envy and jealousy at first now we see them become companions. This is a key theme as society tries to rule out women it brings them closer as they can share experiences and gain confidence and love of eachother in which none have experienced before.

  The Colour Purple- Alice Walker

Character analysis:

Celie:  Is the main protagonist in the novel as well as the narrator. She is a 14 year old girl married to a man known as MR. She suffers violent beatings, and rape from her step-father. Celie is poor and uneducated girl coming from the rural areas in Georgia. She develops through the characreter of Shug as Celie learns many things about her, which they form an intimate relationship between themselves.
Nettie: Is Celie's younger sister. She is presented as the 'pretty' sister. She is bright, attractive and strong and realises the importance of education from a young age. Nettie often acts as Celie's protector She is thrown out of her house in which she joins two missionaries Samuel and Corrine and falls in love with Samuel.
 Mr: Celie's husband, which he abuses her for many years. Though we see his character change later in the novel as he begins to evaluate himself in tries to correct his eariler wrongs.
Shug Avery: she is presented negatively as a doubtful woman with very little morals. She is presented in a more positive light from Celie's view as she resembles her mother, in which Celie makes constant comparisions between them too. She can be seen as an inspiration as she does not like to be dominated upon by others, she is a strong character behind those repressed feelings she is a warm and compassionate character. 

I am enjoying this book a little as its all written in an epistolary form, which is different to hear from one persons view. I find it interesting how Celie writes her letters to God this is significant as Celie sees God as a helper and listener, yet she doesnt have a clear understanding of who God actually is. I found the use of colours interesting as well used by Waker to represent liberation through the brighter colours, rebirth and purity.The novel has progressed, as Shug Avery and Celie's relationship becomes intimate and she begins to ask Celie questions about sex. She stays with them when she finds out that she is constantly beaten when Shug is not present. Shug brings home a new husband but a secretive realtionship still continues between her and Celie.

Theme:

Female Relationships: Are presented throughout the novel as they allow for characters to open up and share experiences which are similar, these stories allow women to resist opression and dominance. Most importantly the relationship between Celie and Shug allows a sense of belief and trust as Celie begins to understand herself. 

Keeping up with my novels

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A Thousand Splendid Suns- Khaled Hosseini

1- The key characters, how are they developing and are they changing?

Mariam- The main character in the novel. An ethnic Tajik, born into a illegitimate wealthy family living in Herat. She continuously tries to seek her father's acceptance as a daughter, though she feels pushed to the boundaries when she faces him. This leads to the heart of her mother's suicide and her own arranged marriage to Rasheed, a man much older than  her. She is a victim of abuse in the many years that she is married to him. Mariam is introduced as a very obidient and vulnerable child in which the audience feels sympathetic for She is looked down upon as a character throughout her childhood as she carries shame in the consequeneces that took place from the day she was born. She is labelled as a 'Harami' bastard child.

  Mariam has developed into a more independent individual in which she begins to understand the World through her own visions and experience. She has changed in a way, that makes it easier for those who have had arranged marriages understand Mariam, and are able to relate to the pain that she suffers in her unfortunate marriage. She begins to wear the full Burqa, she becomes more isolated as a character 'The loss of peripheral vision was unnerving.' 

Jalil- Mariam's Father, who made the mistake to produce her which from having an affair with his wife, with the housecleaner. He is a loving father during Mariam's childhood. She is the object of his shame but his love for her will never leave her feeling neglected despite what happens.

Nana- Mariam's mother, she was the housemaid for Jalil. He provided little shack in which she would stay with Nana. Nana is presented throughout the novel as an individual and casted out of Jalil's life. She becomes a clingy character as Mariam is the only familial connection as Mariam builds a bond with her father her mother kills herself.

Laila-  A very striking, bright young girl. Born into a wealthy modernised family in which a womans education is a top priority. She draws a close relationship with Tariq a childhood friend in which she marries later on.  She holds the reputation and respect among her friends as being on the newspaper one day, as well as her father telling her that she can change Afghanistan one day.

    Laila develops into socitey with more freedom, and appreciation of education than those girls who are less fortunate in a society where marriage and family at a young age is more favoured. Laila's character does begin to change when she is a married woman as she realises the duties as well as the pressure of family life.

Rasheed-The husband of Mariam and Laila. He is a cruel and abussive character in which he verbally and physically causes harm to both of his wives. Rasheed comes from a troubled past in which he as lost both his previous wife and his first son. Rasheed's character changes as once he is married he enforces religion upon Mariam such as forcing her to wear the Burqa. The loss of her children with Rasheed changes the relationship they have as they become more seperated and there is less interaction from when they were first married such as going out as a married couple. 

Tariq- Laila's neighbour, a few years older. He has lost a leg from the war. Despite this he is a character with a strong heart, and dependable. Their friendship grows into a romance in which they produce a child. Unfortunately Tariq moves to Pakistan to avoid the war in Kabul. 

2- Character Motivation...

Mariam- Has a constant drive to feel accepted by her father though she isnt seen as a legitimate family memeber. She feels the need to fulfil the wishes of Nana and to leave her feeling content at all times when she is present. We see Mariams curiosity of not understanding the word 'harami' bastard child. 'Nor was she old enough to appriciate the injustice, to see that it is the creators of the harami who are culpable, not the harami, whose only sin is being born.' She can be seen as a role model to the reader as her endless love and devotion to those that she seeks from (Nana, Jalil and Rasheed) isn't returned but she continues to show the love and respect she has for them.

Laila- Is more driven by her Father to be educated and bought up in a society where women are just as equal as men. She has a drive to recieve the love back that she gives to Tariq as a friend as well as being a romantic couple.She is impacted by dropping out of school as the war and violence leads to the streets becoming a very vulnerable place for any person. The heart breaking news that is given to Laila, impacts her as she finally is with the one she loves but he has to go. The sepration leads to her getting married again to Rasheed Mariam's husband. This also impacts her life as she makes a bond with Mariam in which they both act against the cruelty of Rasheed. 

3- The Plot...

The novel begins upon one character which is Mariam, in which she appears in part one of the book. It is then linked onto Part 2 of the stroy in which Mariam is introduced. Overall the novel has four patrs. Each Part we learn something new about each character, this helps to story progress  as we changes in society, relationships and individuals. We see the story from 2 young women, who experience the three decade war going on between the Jihad, civil war with Taliban. Mariam the first young girl, who has bought shame upon her Fathers name. She is forced to marry Rasheed a who becomes brutal man as she fails to produce children with him. The Parts of the novel are joined when Laila becomes the second wife of Rasheed.The two girls become allies in a battle with Rasheed whose violence is endorsed.
   The Plot is heavily built around the significance of a male figures being in control of women, it shows a side of reality to those who are well aware of forced marriages in countries which are patriarchal. Each woman in the novel comes to acceptance that the path they choose, they will never be content with. For example Mariam choses the path to sacrafice her life inorder to save Laila after she kills Rasheed. Laila has a different story, a young intelligent girl, with a good educational background. She is with the love of her life, though it comes crashing down, she has to find a way to keep the sacrafice Mariam has made from committing a horrible yet relieving act.
  Currently, I have seen the novel develop through many ways such as the culture of women, tend to be more closed of in society, they are seen as objects of pleasure and child production. We also see how boys in these cultures are more favoured as they can go and fight for their country, keep the family name as well as bring a wife home to nurture the family.
  I have also seen the way the country develops and how the people of Afghanistan suffer from the violence, abuse and threats. Though they have a strong belief that peace will arrive one day.
Education, is an important development in the novel, as well for Afghanistan today. The education system is begining to open for women, such as Mariam and her friends coming from a wealthier background. Its not common for women in a society where education as a key facility of life.

                                                                  THEMES!

• Strength Of Women: The young women, Mariam and Laila as well as the other girls mentioned, have grown up to act mature in a way that they are prepared for married life and its duties that come with the role. The forced marriages, bring them a life of misery in which we see their strength and efforts put in to please thier men to the highest ability. These women grow up as young experienced individuals who have the strength to persevere to receive attention, and independence.  Mariam suffers to seek attention from her father to accept her as a daughter and not a shadow of shame. She takes the pain of an abusive husband for the past 27 years but takes her fate and tries to build the best out of what she has. Whereas, Laila's dream of the perfect husband fails, in which she tries to rebuild her life with Rahseed in which she too becomes a victim of abuse. She then faces the challenge to help rebuild her country and to honor the memory of Mariam.
• Overriding power of Men: Power is overriding in the men that are in the war, the Soviets, Mujahideen and the Taliban all share little compassion for human life. The status that power brings is a key motivation in which these men remain evil, and become ignorant to improve the beauty and success of their country. The women are seen as victims in this male dominating society. They aren't given basic rights, such as freedom and speech. If one was to express their feeling a servere punishment would be put in place publicly, whereas men like Rasheed may have killed both Mariam and Laila this wouldn't be looked down upon at all.
• Loyalty and devotion: both women accept the roles of being wives to husbands in which they have been placed with. For example Mariam, she becomes a loyal and devoted wife in serving what Rasheeds wishes for with high standards. Though she fails to give him a child. She is also very loyal to her mother in the beginning, she shows love and attention to her mother, despite Nana not expressing her entire feelings to Mariam. Laila, shows loyalty and devotion towards her father, to have a life of education and to show a change in Afghanistan. 

Other themes are present such as:

• Discrimination
• Outcast
• Hope
• Peace
• War
• Love
• Pride
• Religion

Other Aspects Of Gothic Literature

Gothic Women

Gothic women in the early years were portrayed as weak, vulnderable and were often objects and controlled by men. They were often placed as negative in society as they were corrupted by male power.  

   Where as women in modern gothic literature are presented as more sexual, agressive amongst a male dominated society. There are two catorgories of  women in modern gothic literature. The first is seductive and threatening, theses women tend to be more premiscuous as well as independant. The second type is submissive, these tend to be more humble, lack self confidence and obidient.

Male Gothic Protagonists

The male gothic protagonist is often driven by slefish needs and desires, they turn away from the norms of society, in this way they feel more socially acccepted as they usually work independantly. Their actions and characteristics move the story along and determine the overall outcome of the gothic novel. 

Examples of popular Gothic protagonists.

• Frankenstein- A classic tale of a man-made monster who seeks acceptance from society, despite his unusual apperance and strange upbringing.

• Dracular- A young English lawyer who travels to the Castle of Dracular, to complete a real estate transaction with a nobleman named Count Dracular. The young English man is warned about the destination. He is given charms to work against evil and uttering strange words that is later translated into 'vampire'.

Gothic Settings

It was first found in Sweeden the use of Gothic architecture, Gothic novels were mainly set in deep dark places inwhich buildings were begining to decay. Settings were mainly in Castles which were mysterious, dark and secretive in which the superantural would come to life as well as being set in Graveyard, Churches etc. Castles were mainly used to create a specific mood and atmosphere this cretaed tight intensity between the characters as well as the audience. These mysterious places unraveled the fear of the unknown. 

   Settings were often associated with medieval buildings, they saw them as dark and terrifying as it reflected the times of harsh laws, tourture which had fascinating rituals.

  

Gothic Novels, Short Stories and Poems  

Gothic novels are strongly associated with Catholicism. As characters are introduced they are immediately presented from a religious background. The characters flaws are directly associated with their Catholic beliefs from the readers view.  Many of these novels are Ironic as they underline the message of humanity.

 These are present in novels such as:

• The Castle of Otranto- This short novel, shows the negativity of Catholicism through the character Friar Jerome. Many sinful events take place, For example Manfred, the lord of the Castle of Otranto, wants to divorce his wife so that he can marry the young and beautiful Isabella. Divorce is highly looked down upon in Catholicism.

•  The Monk- This is one of the most anti-Catholic characters in gothic literature.Ambrosio, a monk who falls into sin with Matilda, when her true identity is revealed. The thought of suicide is ingrained in her if she cannot have his love (already we see lust and suicide which are major sins in Catholicism) which leads to his own downfall.

• Zeluco- The novel shows the animosity between Protestants and Catholics. A Sicillian Catholic, who lacks morals and is only interested in himself. He leaves Countess Brunella's niece after impregating her. His first wife dies of a broken spirit once he marries her for her money. Once again this goes against all the beliefs of the Catholic faith.

 Origins of Gothic Literature

  Gothic literature began in the year 1765, with its first novel The Castle of Otranto, by Horace Walpole. This novel was based upon an Italian prince

who plans to turn away the curse brought on his family when his grandfather seizes the principality of Otranto. These novels were seen as a source of barbarism (a brutal or ignorant act). Gothic writers were mostly protestants, where as Catholics were very superstitious therefore where more closer to barbarism.

In literature, the word ‘Gothic’ refers to a mode of fiction dealing with supernatural or horrifying events.

 
 It also originated from rich architecture mainly between the 12th-14th centeury. Its intricasies of the height, ribbed vaulting and stained glassed windowns of Catherderals, showed a medium of being between Earth and Heaven. It Catholic styles influenced the presence of Catholicism within gothic literature, recieved negativity due to many unexpected occurences within the church. The vaulting arches and spires of Gothic cathedrals reach widly to the sky as if the builders were trying to grasp the heavens a desire for the eternal. 

Gothic literature can be traced back from many religious, cultural and artistic features. These features became very popular in the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Novels such as Demon Lover and Cannibal bridegroom . Though in the Seventeenth century novels were belived to have served as precursors which produced romantic literature texts such as Hamlet by William Shakespear. which also contained superantural elements to help build strong views on religion to avoid those that were superstitous.

Gothic Literature is popular for its use of recurring themes, images and symbols. These motifs run throughout the novel and help build the storyline to a climax in which the main protagonist reaches a dramatic ending or unpredictable event.  

 Key characteristics from all Gothic novels originate from a fascination for the past (revenge seeking), occurences of the superantural, and magic. Plots are usually set through dramatic settings which represent  many emotions mainly fear and horror. 

Gothic literature gets its name from its simularities to the Gothic medieval cathedrals, which have many artisitc and royal features. The word 'Gothic' derives from 'Goth' the name of one barbaric Germanic tribes that invaded the Roman Empire. This is associated with savagery which is property that is untamed or ferocious. 
  

 I have started to read,  A Thousand Splendid Suns by Hosseini, as I really enjoyed the writing style of The Kite Runner. I was particularly interested in the way of women being presented in a patriarch society, also the realisation of how women have developed since these times.
     Coming from an Asian culture i found that it was easy for me to relate to topics, such as religion, marriage and history. 

I have read up to chapter 16, the main Character  Mariam who is aged 15, is forced into an arranged marriage with a man who is a lot older than her. What I found interesting from this point was the relationship of Mariam and her Husband Rasheed starting of smoothly, but as this progresses the relationship changes. We also see how married life in this society has an affect upon Mariam, and the duties that come with this.
   The duty of motherhood, when she fails to become a mother several times, this also leads to her and husband relationship becoming slightly horrific when the first scene of abuse/violence occurs.

The themes i have recognised so far are:
Connection to Afghanistan- As Hakim quotes poetry, Fariba doesn't want to leave the land her sons have died upon.
Love and Respect- between Mariam and her mother, also for her father as well as Mullah Faizullah.
Guilt- the death of Mariam's mother, she feels that she is to blame for leaving her.
Isolation- 'she did not like the suffocating way the pleated cloth kept pressing against her mouth'. Mariam is introduced to wearing the traditional Burqa. Her identity feels hidden, she feels excluded from society 'it was strange seeing the world through a mesh screen'.




I have also started to look at Novels to Compare A Thousand Splendid Sons with a few suggestions:

Purple Hibiscus, by Chimimanda Ngozi Adichie interested me as it shows the disintegration of a wealthy family, its a view of violence which shares similar qualities with Hossieni's novel. It shows a contrast between wealth, women, and especially religion.

I have also started to look at The Color Purple by Alice Walker. I was interested in the way that the novel was presented throughout, the use of letters seemed different yet interesting. Violence towards women is also shown throughout the novel.