What role would the Puritans way of life play in modern society?

I believe that if the Puritanical lifestyle would still be around today, there would a slight decrease in crimes possibly. Since the rules were so strict, I hardly think anyone would desire to break them risking execution. Although it wouldn't be the desired way of life for many individuals such as I, it's interesting to think of the vast differences such a strict power would lead to. What do you guys think?

What would have happened if Dimmesdale was the receiver of the ignominy and Hester was the one who kept silent?

I personally believe that Dimmesdale would have possibly gotten a worse sentence because of his position of power. The whole town looked up to him for guidance, just to be let down/disappointed. Gender roles might play a factor in this scenario, but since Dimmesdale was the one who was well known than he might have been subjected to more judgement and criticisms. What do you guys think?

What would you do if you were placed in the same situation as Chillingworth?

If I were to be placed in Chillingworth's position, I feel as if I would become angry at Hester, but not wish physical or mental harm onto her or her lover. What she did was unforgivable, even if she wasn't given the amount of love she desired, but becoming so entrenched in getting revenge would not help the situation at all. The guilt alone would suffice in my opinion. Just the way I see it, what would you guys do?

What Would You Do If You Were Pearl?

Would you accept Dimmesdale as a father? Would you defend Hester from the public? Would you stay with Hester if you knew about her act of adultery? To me, I would accept Dimmesdale as a father because he is one of the few people who treated Pearl as a normal kid. I'm not sure if I would defend Hester against the public, unless if she tells me why people are scolding her. I would also stay with Hester if I knew that she had committed adultery, because it is what created Pearl in the first place.

The Scarlet Letter

What were your thoughts on The Scarlet Letter? Did you enjoy the novel or not? Did it change how you viewed your surroundings? Also, would you recommend the book to someone else? Why or why not?

Personally, I enjoyed The Scarlet Letter quite a lot. It helped give me a new perspective on how to view previously existing ideas in today's society. It just helps to bring to mind the idea of gender roles and the double standards that society has imposed upon its members. I would also try to recommend this book to someone else, but only if they are interested in its genre or are generally looking for something interesting to read. It also could help to create some interesting discussion topics and pursuit of what is really "right" or "wrong."

Dimmesdale

Hey guys, so one question I wanted to ask you is do you think it was right or wrong for Dimmesdale to keep his sin a secret. I am greatly conflicted because I don’t really know how to answer this question. I feel like Dimmesdale was wrong to keep it a secret, but then at the same time he went through so much guilt and self punishment that living became hard for him.  Do you think he deserved that as compensation for Hester’s punishment? Let me know what you guys think!

Are you a transcendentalist?

How do you guys live your life? By peer pressure, your own choices, or going with the flow? It is simple for us to say that we make our own choices; however, if we take a look around, how many of us actually do things for ourselves and not our friends? The key to being a transcendentalist is to think for yourself while having no boundaries. Maybe boundaries can include family, friends, siblings, or even your enemies. Don't let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do because... is it your lives or theirs?How to you identify yourself as? A transcendentalist or someone who is a follower?

Favorite Character

Hello guys,

I just wanted to share to with you guys one of my favorite characters from The Scarlet Letter.... Chillingworth... just kidding.

Anyways, I think it's pretty obvious, but aside from Hester, it is little Pearl! To me, she is so adorable and I just grew sympathy for her throughout the book. I honestly put myself in her place and wonder what life would be like in that time period. Also, she brings back memories when I was seven, for example, hanging out with my mom.

Who is your favorite character and why? Thank you!

Hey guys just wanted to ask how you guys are planning to study for the ap exam. I've decided to order some vocab flashcards, and I'm thinking of ordering a good book. Any reccomendations?

Good morning guys! I want to suggest one of the best literature books that I have been reading aside from my independent reading book: the bible. It has wonderful stories, poetry, and advice from God! I suggest you guys read it, it's really wonderful! I learned plenty of new vocabulary and concepts and I just finished reading the book of Ruth!
Just wanted to share it with you guys! Hopefully you guys give it a chance and enjoy reading it as much as I do!! Happy reading!

Invariably

in·var·i·a·bly

ˌinˈverēəblē/

adverb

adverb: invariably

in every case or on every occasion; always.

"the meals here are invariably big and hearty"

synonyms:

always, on every occasion, at all times, without fail, without exception antonym

antonyms:

sometimes, never

1.  A sentence that can be accurately describe this word would be:
2. Max was a little too handy with the snooze button on his alarm clock, so he was invariably late for work every day.
3. 
   
4. Even though the kids would rather go to Disneyland, Dad invariably plans the family vacation around a visit to his stodgy old relatives.
5. 
   
6. The few signs I used became less and less adequate, and my failures to make myself understood were invariably followed by outbursts of passion.
   The few signs I used became less and less adequate, and my failures to make myself understood were invariably followed by outbursts of passion.
   
   

   The few signs I used became less and less adequate, and my failures to make myself understood were invariably followed by outbursts of passion.
   The few signs I used became less and less adequate, and my failures to make myself understood were invariably followed by outbursts of passion.
   

Transcendentalism

Hello!

Today in class we disscused and read about transcendentalism. What did you guys obtain from this discussion? What were some of your favorite parts?

My favorite quote obtained from the discussion was: things do not change, we change!

I just found this quote extremely relatable when it comes to my life. I start to notice things that changed drastically throughout the years in my life, especially in highschool, but then this quote opened my eyes: all this time it was not the "things" that actually changed, it was us.

I just thought I'd share this, have a good night guys!

The Subject of English

Hey everyone! I want to know how everyone feels about the subject of English. This is personally my WORST subject because I am someone who prefers to apply the knowledge of a concept rather than to explain it. Let me give an example. In math, I am applying the steps I know to get the right answer, where as in English, I have the hardest time expressing my thoughts into words because there is a plethora of ways to say what is in my mind and yet, there is only one way to say it to satisfy teachers. (Not that teachers are jerks of coarse, but speaking formally helps us with job interviews or other activities) What are your thoughts on English classes?

Hey guys as you can see I'm barely replying to your guys' post and trying to post. I need your guys' opinion on something very important.. I recently started working, and I love by job, and I love school as well. but here's the twist to things; I did ask for a part time job and the schedule is very flexible and I know I can do both school and work(which I have been doing for almost a month now) but I'm feeling like I get out late from work, and have to be up this late doing homework. I mean it's fine with me because theres times where I get out of work and I'm not tired, so id stay up doing homework, but theres days where I am super sleepy and have to still sustain myself to be up.. what do you guys think about this? Should I consider what many say; long days and nights but it's all worth it at the end? or should I completely stop working and only focus on school? opinions?

In sat, act prep Mrs. schlaerth has mentioned once or twice that her and Mr.Schlaerth try and learn a couple of new vocabulary words everyday, I have so picked up on this awesome idea. I learned about 15 new words so far. Does anyone else do this or just learn as they go. I feel like this helps my writing and makes me sound more of a professional, educated student in and out of school.

School Tips

Okay so for me in the past, I have concluded that my bad test grades came from bad study habits. As I grew older I started to develop more habits that soon began to work for me.
In Nathalie's post about procrastinating, I answered with honest study tricks that work for me.
So here are my questions.

What is a good study habit to you?
Tips on how to maintain good grades?
Organization method?

To answer the last question, I consider myself an organized person! I know some of my peers only have two binders, but for me, I just can't. I have to have a binder for each class with dividers in them or else I will go crazy with my papers all over the place!

I would love to hear your guy's input on this! Maybe you guys a useful study habit that may help all of us in the end run!

Beginning

The story starts with this verse of Genesis and how Rachel is unable to give birth to Jacob's children, the quote is like:

"Yo, Jacob, I am infertile, we need new eggs, lets hit up my maid, Bilhah, but just don't catch feelings okay, she's just the side."
-Tamara Gutierrez
(And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die. And Jacob's anger was kindled against Rachel: and he said, Am I in God's stead, who hath withheld from thee the fruit of the womb? And she said, Behold my maid Bilhah, go in unto her; and she shall bear upon my knees, that I may also have children by her.) -Genesis 30:1-3
Why did you think Margret Atwood picked this specific passage?

Definition: Frivolity

fri·vol·i·ty

frəˈvälədē

noun

1. lack of seriousness; lightheartedness.

   synonyms:    lightheartedness, levity, joking, fun, frivolousness, silliness, foolishness
2. 
   
3. This word is another word for fun or foolishness that can easily take your writing up a notch.
4. 1. One could say: . 
   The president has no time for frivolities.
   My older sister was becoming furious with my sister due to their frivolities behavior.
   She treats school with frivolity.

ok guys, so here's the thing. It has nothing to do with the course, but it does have to do with me. I tend to procrastinate a lot, and I try my very best to push myself to not do so, so I can accomplish things. Do you guys have any skills that can help me surpass this? So I can use for use now and in the future. I'd appreciate it guys, thx!

The Jungle

During the jungle, we see Jurgis and Onya face many challenges in America. We see the effects of winter on the family and the work injury Jurgis gets. The family is barely surviving in America with all the family and a new baby. Do you think if we finished the book the story would be more graphic and melancholy or do you think the end will be a little bit hopeful like in The Grapes of Wrath?

Portrayal of Hell

In my last post, I asked about your portrayal of Hell. I find it so interesting that many of you have the same idea and perspective of Hell. Many of which includes fire, torture and burning. Why do you think so many perceive Hell that way?

Rose of Sharon

Hi guys,

I noticed that during our discussion, Mrs.Ross brought up the point that may have had some sort of feeling that her baby was going to be still born because her motherly intuition might have kicked in. In my opinion if she had that mindset, maybe that's why during her giving birth she didn't react as dramatically as we thought she would have. What are your thoughts?

Discussion

What are your opinions on Trump being elected president and how he runs his presidency? I just believe that America lost all it´s prestige and honor by electing this thing to office. What are your thoughts?

Question Regarding Grapes of Wrath

If John Steinbeck were alive today, what group of people would he target and bring awareness to? I believe either the refugees and immigrants, but there has to be other groups.

The Handmaid's Tale By: Margret Atwood

I am currently reading the book The Handmaid's Tale. The story is about a woman who was taken and made a "sex-slave" for the wealthy tycoons that have infertile spouses. The main character Offred who was taken from her family and made one a Martha's(sex slave). The Martha's are looked down upon by the spouse's due to the fact that they can not conceive a child, but they are told constantly that they are doing an important job for society.In the story, you can see her constantly doubting the society and the rules and often thinks about running. Offred is constantly speaking to herself in her mind about how she is living and the people she is surrounded with.In the story, we see the main character Offred suffer and talk to herself. Will it lead to any mental disease like schizophrenia in the novel as it continues?

Connecting Ideas

Hello, guys!

Today we discussed a lot of ideas from the Grapes of Wrath to the "president." What was your favorite part of the discussion? Do you have any additional ideas to connect the text to the real world?

My favorite part of the discussion was talking about Ma and her character. I feel like many of us can connect to her characterization not only in being strong or at least trying to be, but also keeping the family together. By family, I mean us students working together to get that 5 on the exam and working together as family to achieve it! If we separate and go our own ways, who knows what would become of us! I feel like her character was well developed and Steinbeck did a wonderful job with her character!

Please comment any ideas, questions, or input you had about today's discussion! :)

  So, the book that I chose was Lolita. Lolita starts as a 12 year old girl that thinks shes in love with this man. My question is do you think Lolita knows what she is doing at such a young age? Does she think what shes doing is normal? Any opinions?

Quesion

In the play, No Exit by Jean-Paul Sartre, we are introduced to Garcin in the opening. Garcin has died and is in Hell. The setting is in a room with three different colored couches. In the center was a bronze ornament. That's it. No bathrooms, no mirrors, no beds. We learn that there are no torture devices. Nor are there people to physically torture him. His first question was about a bathroom and a toothbrush because he was so accustomed to the mortal world and was anxious about cleaning. My question is what would your portrayal of Hell be? Also, would you have reacted the same way as Garcin?

Question

Hello guys!

I have a question regarding reading.

Sometimes I find it hard to understand books, well right now Lolita. I was wondering if you guys have any advice for further understanding books. I wonder how you guys connect in a profound manner with literature, instead of just understanding the basics! Thanks!

Sympathy

Earlier in class, we discussed about how the Joad Family in "The Grapes of Wrath" was very sympathetic. Is your family sympathetic? Mine sure is. When there is someone who needs help, my parents would provide more than enough support that is needed to the point where it hurts their funds. Also, what would your parents do if a friend of yours wants to move with you to another state because he/she has nowhere else to go, similarly with Jim Casy? I highly doubt my parents would let anyone else besides the family to come unless if my friend can prove him or herself worthy. What are your thoughts?

Characters

Hello, everyone!

I was wondering how the author of your novel decided to introduce you to the characters. What first impressions do you have of them? Any questions about your characters?

For example, in my book, Lolita, the narrator starts off by introducing her in various manners. We get to know about his background and his past; moreover, he describes Lolita and how they met. A question that I want to know the answer to is: why is Lolita with an older man? She is just a little girl. Anyways, the narrator seems a little unreliable to me and I dislike him a little. I feel like he is desperate to be with someone, but in order to find out the entire story, I need to read more. So far, the introduction of Lolita is not so bad!

Please feel free to express your opinions about your novel's characters or any other interesting things!

AP Course

What are you guys looking forward to and dreading?

I am looking forward to the various types of literature we will read and learning how to quickly write meaningful essays. On the other hand, I am fearful of the timed essays as i suck with time management, but hopefully by the end of the year, I will improve on it.

Independent Reading

What influenced you guys to select the book you chose? I myself was influenced by Mrs.Ross as she gave the overall concept of the book and it sounded very captivating.

Structure of Journal

As most of us have already chosen an independent book, I was just wondering how you guys planned to structure your journals such as Summary, Themes, and Side Notes or perhaps something else? Want to hear other ideas as it might influence other people to write about more topics to get a better understanding.

Grapes of Wrath Character Analysis: Noah

Most of the characters in The Grapes of Wrath are well portrayed with great backstories and their own personalities. For instance, Ma is a strong female lead character that makes her presence known throughout the novel through her leadership skills and dialogue. But then we have characters like Noah and Connie, who are not as detailed as much as any of the other individuals. I believe that Steinbeck purposefully created them this way so that their actions described them more accurately than their words. Noah has always been a silent character with a poor connection to his family. When he told Tom that he was staying at the river, it was a clear indicator of his selfishness. While departing from his family did make him sad, his ulterior motive won out over friendship and family.

Why didn't Steinbeck develop Noah's character more ? Do you think it's a flaw or does it serve a greater purpose? Be sure to reply whatever your thoughts may be on this subject. Any comments and ideas are appreciated!

Cecelia Barnett

Hello everyone! This post belongs to Cecelia Barnett!

The Jungle

Do you think Steinbeck and Sinclair had the same purpose in mind when writing their novels?

They are very similar novels due to the economic and  social problems the characters face. Both books show how one cannot succeed in a country like this if they follow the rules. In The Jungle Jurgis wishes to be rich in America while the Joads just want to find work to survive. Both face the economic problems from the Joads having to sell all their belongings and only getting a small amount while Jurgis has horrible working conditions(pay and such)  Both novels reveal that no matter how hard you try you can't succeed unless you have a one-sided view. I think both writers wanted their audience to see the deplorable things that happened in that time. Yes I believe that they had the same purpose of writing these novels.

Cecelia Barnett

Hello everyone! This post is on behalf of Ceceila Barnett, not mine.



What is your reaction to the final closing statement?

Good Morning Everyone,

                   My reaction to the end is that when Rose offers to feed the man I feel that it represents survival and re-birth. It shows how help unifies the community and how they have to help each other to stay alive in a place where everyone doesn't want them not there. since the fact that Tom is in the woods isolated and doesn't plan to  go back to his family, but he tells his mother that even though he is alone he has realized what his real purpose is live his life to Christ like Casy. To help the collective good. I thought the ending could have gone more in depth and go in depth in their life a little later like 5 years later. To the overall ending I was happy with how the book ended and how the author portrayed the time frame.

Grapes of Wrath Chapter 24 Ideas and Incite

How Is Tom Becoming A Dynamic Character?

Since the start of the beginning of the book, we find that Tom is not the nicest of characters. He is rather hot headed and extremely defensive of his past. Along the trip west we find that Tom has been changing bit by bit. In a sense, he has become more mellowed out, especially after spending time at the government camp. There are multiple events that lead up to this point, but I want to know what others think about how Tom has changed from the person he was in the beginning. Would you say that he has become more of a leader, or is he less impulsive and violent than what he used to be? 

Be sure to let me know.

Chapter 28 Question

What do you guys think on Tom's decision to leave the family and go down a path that got Casy killed? I think it was right for him to leave to protect his family from the authorities, but leaving them to pursue a dangerous life only left Ma worried for her son. What do you guys think about this topic?

Chapter 22: The Grapes of Wrath

In what way does the government camp differ from the Hoovervilles/ makeshift camps? 

Good Morning everyone!

Chapter 22 marks the start of a "new" life for the Joads, maybe forever or for a while... They enter this government camp where it drastically differs from the other camps: in the aspects of running water; hot or cold, toilets, a bed, a nice tent, dances every Saturday, no cops, their own rules, and people who care for them. The text states, "Central committee keeps order and makes rules. Then there's the ladies. They call on your Ma. They keep care of kids an' look after the sanitary units..." (Steinbeck, 1996, p. 287) According to this chapter and text, the government is ten times better than Hooverville. The Joads are welcomed, not to mention, excited to be there. The government camp also does a nice job of being organized and making their own rules. Although jobs are limited, it doesn't become an issue until further in the novel. The government camp is united by the people and not disunited by the cops, but like I said, the only downside is the fact that jobs are limited: the reason the Joads traveled west is for a job.

I hope this helps! Feel free to add on or take away. :)

The Grapes of Wrath: Chapter 20 and 21 Question

Read the following excerpts and explain why Steinbeck may have decided on The Grapes of Wrath title.

Hello readers! I have been stuck with this question for quite awhile and I don't know how to answer it no matter how much research I do. I get that it is a biblical reference but I don't understand why Steinbeck chose The Grapes of Wrath as the title of this novel. Can someone help me on this?

Chapter 8

Describe Uncle John from Tom's point of view.



Uncle John in Tom's point of view is seen as lonely, crazy and mean. Tom states, " Loniest goddamn man in the world ... Crazy kind of son-of-a-b**** too- somepin like Muley, on'y worse in some way" (Steinbeck, 1996, p.68). The quote displays Tom's negative perception of his Uncle based on his years of knowing him. He also heard a story from his father about something crazy that John was responsible for. The story was that he had a wife who had a stomach pain and wanted to go to the doctor, but he didn't take it seriously and called it a stomach ache. She ended up dying the next day because he condition was much more serious. This story aids in the crazy reputation he had and his wife being the only family he had made him lonely after her loss.

If anyone wants to elaborate or add more that be great!!
Thanks:)

Chapter 7 Question

Hi guys! I hope you're Summer has been great! I have a question about chapter 7 and I wanted to ask what you guys may have thought what the point of this chapter was. I had thought that maybe this chapter was to give background information on what is happening during the time everyone is moving to California, but I somehow feel there's more to this chapter than that. If anyone would like to comment below and express what they think I would be extremely greatful for the feedback! Thank you in advance and hope to see you all soon! :)

chapter 5

     Good afternoon, I would just like to put my perspective  on why it's evident  that Steinbeck  wrote from a third person omniscient point of view. It is evident that the author is writing from a third person omniscient point of view  because Steinbeck shifts from character to character allowing the readers to  really conceptualize the lives of the characters, for example, in chapter 1 the story is being told from the farmers perspective but in chapter 2 Steinbeck is using a truck drivers perspective. As the story moves along  Steinbeck dramatically shifts and rotates the characters to enable the reader to read some of the thoughts and feelings of the characters at specific important points. Moreover, this specific point of view can definitely be the most  affective point of view for Steinbeck's purpose because throughout the chapters we can occasionally get into the mind of the characters and get a close glimpse of their feelings, he lets the readers know when, why, and where everything is happening keeping the readers enlightened and diverted as the story moves along. If anyone has anything to add or correct please feel free to do so. I just wanted to get this specific chapter on the blog because I felt like I can get more opinions on why Steinbeck chose this point of view.

Thanks :)

Chapter 3

       Hello, sorry for such a late appearance, Ive had such a busy summer and didn't have time. Anyways, I would love to add my input in one of the chapters I previously worked on, Chapter 3. Steinbeck's description of the setting in this chapter can be described as metaphorical because in the first chapter it shows how dust is a huge barrier in the life of the farmers. For example, "Now the dust was evenly mixed with the air, an emulsion of dust and air. Houses were shut tight, and cloth wedged around doors and windows, but the dust came in so thinly that it can not be seen in the air, and it settled like pollen on the chairs and tables, and on the dishes" (Steinbeck, 1989, P.3). This quote exemplifies how the dust was a huge deterrent at this point, it explains how the dust continues to collide with the only clean air the farmers and their families have. Through out the chapter Steinbeck also provides us information on how the crops were being destroyed and were dying with no way to save them. Likewise, in chapter 3 the turtle in the road can have a metaphoric effect with the first chapter because as the turtle took the road, many avoided him but one light truck driver did not have the same reaction, instead intentionally hitting it and rolling it off the high way. When the poor turtle was struck it had a grueling time getting up because of some thing we witnessed in the first chapter; dust. In essence, "And as the turtle crawled on down the embankment, its shell dragged over the seeds. The turtle entered a dust road and jerked itself along, drawing a wavy shallow trench in the dust with its shell. His yellow toe nails slipped a fraction in the dust" (Steinbeck, 1989, P.16). Lastly this quote reveals how difficult it was for this little guy to get back up and keep on moving, the dust was making it tiresome and extra difficult. To wrap this up, I believe that dust was a big obstacle that was pretty hard for both settings in the 1st and 3rd chapter and can be used metaphorically. If anyone has anything to add please feel free, would love some more opinions, Thanks,

The Grapes of Wrath: Chapter 13

In this chapter, how has the narrator's statement from the end of chapter twelve been validated in: "there will be instances both of bitter cruelty and life affirming beauty"

The narrator told the audience about two things: life and death. At the end of chapter twelve, the author stated, "there will be instances of both bitter cruelty and life affirming beauty." (Steinbeck, 1996, p.122) This quotes was demonstrated in this chapter, chapter 13, and was validated through the use of exposition and rising action. When the author speaks about bitter cruelty, he is reffering to death, more specifically, Grampa's. The Joads expierenced bitter cruelty at the time of his death; while also experiencing life affirming beauty. In this novel, life affirming beauty ties in with the theme: social unity. When they meet the Wilsons in this chapter, the audience was introduced to a more hopeful tone rather then social disunity. Meeting the Wilsons is life affirming beauty becasue with the help of others, people can achieve much more things than if they were alone: the beauty of life. To wrap up, bitter cruelty is death; life affirming beauty is social unity.

I hope this helps, please feel free to add or subtract! :)

Grapes of Wrath: Chapter 11

Comment on the imagery and mood created in paragraphs 2-6

      To be honest, I believe that the mood is a bit dark and peaceful at the same time. In the chapter, it describes what is happening inside an abandoned house that was once owned by a family. What made the mood of the chapter dark is seeing how much the house has degraded after the family moved out. The text states, "And the mice moved in and stored weed seeds in corners, in boxes, in the back of drawers in kitchens And Weasels came in to hunt the mice, and the brown owls flew shrieking in and out again." (Steinbeck, 1939, p. 78). As one can see, this quote demonstrates a good idea of what happened after the house was left vacant. But what makes the setting somewhat peaceful is seeing what happens in nature when people are away. Look at the YouTube videos of animals for example. It is always satisfying to see what they do when people are not around. That is the same feeling I get when reading this chapter.

Does anyone have any thoughts or ideas to add on?

Grapes of Wrath Chapter 2

Describe the characterization of Tom Joad seen through the eyes of the truck driver

       In the eyes of the truck driver, it is clear that he thinks Tom Joad is a rich person around town. This is all mostly because of what Tom was wearing, which are some very new but cheap clothing that all look like they were just made. Then, later in the story, the truck driver was making a difficult decision between driving Tom to his designated location or just leaving with a "No Riders" sticker. This was a hard decision for him because he did not want to be kicked around by some rich person. However, he did accept to drive Tom. During the ride, the truck driver seemed intimidated by Tom and it can be seen through how the driver was chewing his gum and secretly looking at Tom for any suspicious activities. It is clear that the driver believes that Tom Joad is a man who should not be messed with. Similarly to real life, people judge others to get an idea of their wealth. For instance, many would be considered rich if they bought clothing from expensive brands such as Gucci, Chanel, Guess, and etc. All in all, clothing plays a major role in what people thing of you in terms of wealth, which can be seen through the truck driver's thoughts and actions.

If anyone has more to add on, it would help very much!

Chapter 6 Question

I'm sorry guys for posting late i haven't had the chance to post in the past weeks, but I have an important question i would like some feedback on. Do you guys think Muley Grave did the right thing of staying and letting his family leave? Sorry if this wasn't a question from the packet, but I wanted to know someone else's opinion because i believe that he is right for trying to save the land but wrong for leaving his family.

Grapes of Wrath : Chapter 11

Discuss the conflict of nature vs machine 

    The personal connections that a farmer forms with his land vs the nonexistent bonds between machines and property has been a recurring idea throughout the novel and again the reader is exposed to this theme in chapter 11. Before technology ever became advanced, farmers had a more intimate relation with their responsibilities and duties which led to the land becoming part of their life. Now since tractors are driven by men with no connection or understanding of the land, the farming process loses the intimacy that it had for families like the Joads and Graves. Steinbeck further explains this conflict by stating, "And when a horse stops work and goes into the barn there is a life and a vitality left...but when the motor of a tractor stops, it is as dead as the ore it came from. The heat goes out of it like the living heat that leaves a corpse" (Steinbeck, 2002, p. 115). The passage illustrates how after a long day full of meticulous work and dedication, humans rest, but still have life/energy and will be ready to go at it again the next day due to the passion they have for their land. On the other hand, after a tractor plows through the property as if it were nothing, its "soul" dies until the driver comes back weeks or months later to reap the "meaningless" land once more. All in all, machines require no devotion or passion for the land to cultivate it and has made the job of the farmer way too easy, while the farmers treated the land as a living being and cared for it. 

Comment on the imagery and mood created in paragraphs 2-6

    I believe the mood established is downright disheartening because the reader learns of what exactly happened to the houses once full of vitality and love. Now that the farmers were forced to move, the houses have became immensely dilapidated and now harbor wild animals such as owls, bats, and mice. To learn how quickly the houses fell apart without the families reveals more about the farmers and their lifestyle. Steinbeck describes the decrepit houses by stating, "And the mice moved in and stored weed seeds in corners, in boxes, in the backs of drawers in the kitchens. And weasels came in to hunt the mice, and the brown owls flew shrieking in and out again. The weeds sprang up in front of the doorstep, where they had not been allowed, and grass grew up through the porch boards" (Steinbeck, 2002, pg. 116). The imagery in the passage aids the reader to fully understand the arrival of the corporates  and how rapidly they turned a land filled with life into a wasteland for their own benefits. 

I would appreciate if anyone contributes and lets me know what they think! 

      

 

Grapes of Wrath Chapter 5

Summarize the conflict between the landowners and the banks. Is this man vs. man or the individual vs. society ?

The landowners in The Grapes of Wrath are extremely devastated and angry with the bank owners due to them wanting to take their land. The landowners want revenge but in reality they can't do anything because of who they're going up against. Many of the tenants say they'll shoot anyone who tries to take their land or destroy their houses, but as the character who plays as Joe Davis' son says, "Suppose you kill me? They'll just hang you, but long before you're hung there'll be another guy on the tractor, and he'll bump the house down. You're not killing the right guy" (Steinbeck, 1996, p. 38). Anything the landowners try to do, it won't do anything to completely stop the deconstruction. I believe this is individual vs. society because these individuals have to go up against a bank and other members of the bank enterprises. The men are not just going up against one man but to an organization of men who want to take their land. As the book states, "The Bank-- or the Company-- needs-- wants-- insists-- must have-- as though the Bank or the Company were a monster, with thought and feeling, which had ensnared them" (Steinbeck, 1996, p. 32). To me this quote is explaining how the company was it's own little society, they personified the bank and made it seem harmless, but to the men, the bank was atrocious. Please correct me if I'm wrong, but in my opinion that is how I see it. I'd be happy to hear what you think, thanks ! 

Grapes of Wrath Chapter 5

InGrapes of Wrath chapter 5 the prompt is: So far, how is it evident that Grapes of Wrath was written from a third-person omniscient point of view? Why might this p.o.v. be the most effective for Steinbeck's purpose?
        So far, it is evident that Grapes of Wrath was written from a third-person omniscient p.o.v. because Steinbeck speaks to to the readers about other matters beyond the central character's knowledge. For example, "And now the owner men grew angry. You'll have to go" (p.34, para.1) "The iron guard bit into the house corner, crumbled the wall, and wrenched the little house from its foundation so that it fell sideways, crushed like a bug" (p.39, para.1). These quotes demonstrate the matters that have been discussed: the landowners kicking out the tenants, and the tractors destroying the tenants' homes. Both of these events have been described to the readers; meanwhile, the main character- Tom Joad- still has no idea that such events have taken place. This p.o.v. might be the most effective for Steinbeck's purpose of demonstrating to the readers that everything is interconnected, allowing the readers to see how this storm has impacted so much. In essence, the storm has affected the tenants, banks, landowners, those who work the tractors, Tom Joad, etc. All the while, giving the readers the opportunity to gain insight on how the aftermath of the storm is seen or thought of by a variety of people, who have all been differently impacted by the very same event.
I hope this helps in anyway, this is just my opinion so please feel free to either add on and/or share your own opinion. I'd love to here what you all have to say. :)

Grapes of Wrath Chapter #9

In chapter nine of The Grapes of Wrath we are asked to paraphrase the following:

"Maybe we can start again, in the rich new land- in California, where the fruit grows. We'll start over.

But you can't start. Only a baby can start. You and me- why, we're all that's been. The anger of a moment, the thousand pictures, that's us. This land, the red land, is us; and the flood years and the dust years and the drought years are us. We can't start again. The bitterness we sold to the junk man- he got it all right, but we have it still. And when the owner men told us to go, that's us; and when the tractor hit the house, that's us till we're dead. To California or any place- every one a drum major leading a parade of hurts, marching with our bitterness. And some day- the armies of bitterness will all be going the same way. And they'll all walk together, and there'll be a dead terror from it."

 This passage reflects on the idea of rebirth and the elements that evolve a person from birth. My take on the message it conveys is that a "restart" is essentially impossible, for one would need to be born anew, exist anew, "cleansed" of all that they've ever known that has affected them. There is no other way to truly "restart" because experiences, feelings, sensations, people, things, ideas, and so much more trail behind us throughout the course of our life, eternally and undoubtedly. The present and our future is constructed through all that was and wasn't, and the reality of it is that your life in every time period is always with you- for it is you whether you like it or not. It's a part of who you were, who you are, and who you will be. A "restart" requires that everything is erased, to become nonexistent, so that an individual may be reborn as an entirely new person.

 In Tom Joad's case, he accepts what's happened to him and those around him and continues onward to face what's ahead; he knows he can't rid himself of his regrets and/or consequences of the past because he understands that they are a part of him. Your surroundings, loved ones, enemies, treasures, and so on- they are you, and you decide how to make do with who you are and who you will be no matter what environment or situation you may be in.

I'd love to hear anyone's interpretation of what he meant, so feel free to add on! :)

The Grapes of Wrath Chapter four

Good afternoon everyone! :)

Describe the characterization of Reverend Jim Casey through Steinbeck's use of exposition and dialogue.

In this chapter, we are introduced to a new character named Jim Casey and according to the text, he is an old preacher. Through Steinbeck's use of exposition and dialogue, he characterizes Jim Casey; moreover, Jim reveals his thoughts or how Jim Casey puts it "his idears." Jim Casey's past reveals his unique characterization, for example, he reasons his sins so he doesn't feel guilty. The text states, "I use ta get people talking in tongues, an' glory-shoutin' till they just fell down an' passed out... an' then you know what I'd do? I'd take one of them girls out in the grass, an' I'd lay with her..." (Steinbeck, 1996, p.22). This quote demonstrates the surprising behavior of a preacher; moreover, his characterization unfolds and the audience can see what type of person he is: disgusting. On the other hand, he states later on that he prayed and prayed for forgiveness but still laid with a girl afterward. Not only we can infer by this type of characterization that he is a person who wants to "wash his sins" away, but also a person who cannot live with the fact he laid with a girl full of the holy spirit.

Hopefully this helps!
Please add or subtract to this. I will love to hear what you guys have to say!
Thank you :)

How to Post..

There should be an icon that reads "New Post." Use this when you want to start a NEW discussion. If you need help, you can email me, or I am at the school M-Thur. for the next 3 weeks until 2 p.m. so that I can show you. Hope this helps!

Welcome to AP English 2017-2018!

Students,

This is where you will be having discussions on the texts read in class. Bring in outside resources, make connections, and challenge each other's ideas! You should be commenting more than posting. Proofread your writing before publishing. Check this site on a regular basis, especially if you created a Post. You will want to engage in the discussions about what you wrote. Respond. Learn from one another. Question.

Please title posts about The Grapes of Wrath by chapter #. This is so that you won't be "giving away" anything and spoiling suspense. Do not read posts for chapters that you have not yet read!

Have fun and be respectful. Happy Summer Reading!