Self-Hatred and the Aesthetics of Beauty in The Bluest Eye...

Self-Hatred and the Aesthetics of Beauty in The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison Topic: Discuss the issues of self-hatred and the aesthetics of beauty in The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison. What role do they play in the novel and how do they relate to its theme? Self-hatred leads to self-destruction†¦ Self-hatred is something that can thoroughly destroy an individual. As it was fictitiously evidenced in Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye, it can lead an individual to insanity. Toni Morrison raises the idea that racism and class can detrimentally influence people’s outlook on themselves. It is unfortunate that we live in a society that places such a great emphasis and consideration towards the aesthetics of beauty. What is more†¦show more content†¦83) For the Breedloves what society defined as beauty was not something they felt they could ever be. They were condemn by society for being ugly and they themselves succumb to that labeling. They never tried to rise above it and thus raised their children in the same manner. This created a feeling of self-hatred and worthlessness in their children especially their young daughter Pecola. From birth Pecola was said to be ugly by her mother and the poor child was never given a chance to ever establish herself: â€Å"But I knowed she was ugly. Head full of pretty hair, but Lord she was ugly.† (p.128) She was never loved but rather she was neglected and made to have self-contempt because she didn’t look like someone that her parents and society would love. She disliked herself so much that she started fantasizing, dreaming and praying that she was a pretty blue eyed girl whom her parents would love: â€Å"It had occurred to Pecola some time ago that if her eyes, those eyes that held the pictures, and knew the sights—if those eyes of hers were different, that is to say, beautiful, she herself would be different†¦.If she looked different, beautiful, maybe Cholly would be different, and Mrs. Breedlove too. Maybe they’d say, â€Å"Why, look at pretty-eyed Pecola. We mustn’t do bad things in front of those pretty eyes.† (p. 47) Loathing oneself can cause many problems. Pauline BreedloveShow MoreRelatedThe Bluest Eye-Theme of Vision1553 Words   |  7 PagesToni Morrison’s highly acclaimed debut work, The Bluest Eye, is one of unquestionable beauty and intricately woven prose. As a fictional writer, Morrison avails herself of her literary faculties, using her mastery of description in order to convey an unusually lucid picture to the reader. The five senses seem to envelop a great deal of description in the novel, most notably that of sight. As has been discovered by virtue of studying the brain’s neural and cognitive machinery, vision occupies largeRead MoreAnalysis of The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison1756 Words   |  8 Pages In the novel, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison readers are taken throughout the daily lives of African Americans who are faced with numerous trial tribulations. Already facing the harsh reality that they were inferior to the white race. There were many families throughout this story that was faced with this stigma, however it seemed that the Breedloves had it just twice as hard. A series of social problems of which African Americans were victims to during the 1940s-1060s such as Rape, interracial

The Americans With Disabilities Act - 1577 Words

Americans with Disabilities Act I Introduction The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is federal legislation designed to prevent discrimination against disabled people. It applies to all disabled persons, no matter the nature of their disability. This paper examines the ADA and discusses some of the ramifications of the legislation. II Americans with Disabilities Act The Americans with Disabilities Act (hereafter ADA) was enacted in 1990, and its purpose is stated thusly: â€Å"The Americans with Disabilities Act gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with†¦show more content†¦This distinction is significant. The first definition covers those impairments that severely limit a â€Å"major life activity.† This means anything that makes it difficult for someone to breathe, see, speak, etc. When functioning is interrupted as this fundamental level, the person is considered disabled. The definition extends to cover people with â€Å"epilepsy, paralysis, HIV infection, AIDS, a substantial hearing or visual impairment, mental retardation, or a specific learning disability†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (â€Å"Questions and Answers,† PG). Such things as flu, broken bones, and other injuries that can be considered minor are not disabilities within the meaning of the Act. The second part of the definition, â€Å"has a record of such impairment,† covers people who have been disabled but are now recovered, such as someone who has had cancer, or mental illness, but is now back at work. (â€Å"Questions and Answers,† PG). Discrimination against such persons on the basis of their past medical condition is prohibited. The third part of the definition is very subtle. It prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of what someone else considers a handicap. The example that is given is of someone with a severe facial disfigurement being denied employment because the employer fears a negative reaction on the part of customers and fellow employees. In other words, the employer is discriminating

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God Essay Example For Students

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God Essay Jonathan Edwardss sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God is moving and powerful. His effectiveness as an eighteenth century New England religious leader is rooted in his expansive knowledge of the Bible and human nature, as well as a genuine desire to awaken and save as many souls as possible. This sermon, delivered in 1741, exhibits Edwardss skillful use of these tools to persuade his congregation to join him in his Christian beliefs. As many religious leaders before and after him, Edwardss source of inspiration and guidance is the Bible. His understanding of this cornerstone of New England society enables him to reinforce a persuasive dissertation with biblical quotes and passages; however, not all the quotes sited by Edwards support his interpretations exclusively. Often Edwards uses parts or sections of biblical verse rather than complete text because too much information might diminish the importance of his primary intent. These instances of manipulation occur in the doctr inal section where Edwards attempts to prove the basis of his application. Cut it down, why cumbereth it in the ground?, Luke 13:7, is used by Edwards to illustrate Gods justifiably immediate destruction of those guilty of sin. Absent from his selection is any mention of the moderation and patience that continues in Luke 13:8-9: let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. By omitting these verses of scripture, Edwards hopes to move his audience by his calling rather than at their own leisure. Another example of manipulation occurs as Edwards proposes that sinners are already Satans property. In section five he states that Satan stands ready to fall upon them and seize them as his own, yet rather than cite a biblical reference by verse, he chooses only to name it: Luke 11:12. Unfortunately, this particular section in Luke deals more with asking for Gods salvation than giving into Satan:If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! Luke 11:11-13. The complete passage shows how salvation is so easily granted whereas Edwardss purpose is to imply certain irreversible doom. Of course, this manipulation is not always the case, but it can seem misleading under analysis. Just as effective as language manipulation is Edwardss use of language transformation; indeed, his skillful employment of descriptive language adds a visual dimension to his message. Even if the foundation is misinterpreted, these transformations allow any listener to mentally see Edwardss overall direction. For instance, Gods wrath is referred to as great waters that are dammed, a glittering sword, and a drawn arrow. These terms indicate powerful and deadly forces. On the other hand, sinners are likened to worms of the dust, miserable creatures, and loathsome insects; consequently, these labels are receptors of Gods wrath through the forces Edwards introduces. Although these conceptual images appear basic, Edwardss frequency and placement throughout his delivery produce a clear and precise overview to even the simplest of listeners. For example, in section five of the doctrinal section, Edwards warns of devils that lie in wait to claim sinners souls that remain unsaved, but he does not stop with a mere warning. Edwards proceeds to paint a graphic picture of poor souls being set upon by devils like greedy lions and delivered to the old gaping serpent of Satan. By using these visual references, Edwards ensures that everyone who is not moved by the principal of his message is, however, compelled by images of lions devouring human flesh and serpents swallowing sinners whole. This method of persuasion is artfully used by Edwards to convey and reinforce to his congregation the urgency of his message. .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 , .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .postImageUrl , .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 , .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:hover , .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:visited , .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:active { border:0!important; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:active , .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6 .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u18fb2a9e9b5e8004bc4a2be6384ccaf6:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Examining the multiple types of accounting EssayAnother process utilized by Edwards is concurrence between the doctrinal and application sections. By stating and proving his objective through manipulation and transformation of biblical language in the doctrinal area, Edwards is able to refer back to his own interpretations in the application. For example, early in section one, Edwards compares sinners to a bothersome rebel, and something to be subdued by earthly princes. He does this to establish a fundamental association between the rebel and sinners, and how neither one is at all successful nor welcome. After laying this foundation, Edwards returns to it in his applicati on section to establish the same sentiment between God and sinners: You have offended Him infinitely more than ever a stubborn rebel did his prince.Yet another example occurs as Edwards describes the ease with which God is able to cast enemies into hell: so it is easy for us to cut or singe a slender thread that any thing hangs by: thus easy is it for God, when he pleases, to cast His enemies down to hell. Edwards relates our abilities with Gods in a way that all may comprehend; consequently, when he returns to this analogy in his application, the same understanding rules: your righteousness would have no more influence to uphold you and keep you out of hell, than a spiders web would have to stop a falling rock. This time, however, the spider and sinner are depicted as equals. Jonathan Edwards uses every talent he possesses to persuade listeners and readers alike. His knowledge of biblical verse, skillful use of visual imagery, and comparisons between a doctrine and application combine to form a strong and moving argument that revolves around his intense desire for salvation.

Writings Of Thomas Hobbes And J.J.C. Smart Essays - Individualism

Writings Of Thomas Hobbes And J.J.C. Smart Surpassing the Obvious: Analysis of the Writings of Thomas Hobbes and J.J.C. Smart A term paper contrived is only as good as the sources from which it is assembled. It is from these reservoirs of knowledge that the bulk of a paper is developed. That is why it is absolutely imperative that the qualities of these sources are immaculate and relevant to the subject matter. Given my subject matter, ethical obligations and violence, it is critical to note and record the viewpoint of different philosophical ethical theories through the writings of different philosophers. Excerpts form Thomas Hobbes' The Leviathan and J.J.C. Smart in Ethics for the Modern Life, prove to be effective in both previously matriculated qualities. Both authors give arguments for different types of ethical theories that give some aspect of significant worth to my term paper topic. In The Leviathan, Thomas Hobbes argues from a modified psychological egoist stand. By this it is meant that in his writings he argues that every one has a strong intrinsically engrained psychological tendency to act selfishly and that it takes hard work and individual sacrifice to obtain any type of altruistic goal. Hobbes argues that man is naturally in a ?state of nature? and within this state each man is at constant war with other men in order to take and maintain property. He argues that it is our natural right that is derived from our helpless selfishness that causes this environment of destruction and constant fear. The reason that Hobbes is separated away from other psychological egoist is in his belief that man has as opportunity to ascend out of the barbarous state of nature to a higher plane of security and society. According to Hobbes this can only happen when the aforementioned ?natural right? to everyone else's property is relinquished by all to an ultimate sovereign: the Leviathan. Given that this right is renounced by all the element of fear is eliminated. Hobbes states that through the leviathan all concepts will be settled with a fair hand. J.J.C. Smart, however, does not go into such detail into the psyche of man as a whole; rather his objectives center around an ethical theory that he feels all men should accept and participate in. This theory is rule-utilitarianism. Being a subset of simple utilitarianism its goals are synonymous with strict utilitarianism in that it's ultimate intent is to provide the greatest happiness to the greatest number. Rule-utilitarianism, nevertheless, does provide for a more specific stipulation than simple utilitarianism. It states that any act is right (or ethical) if that act provides the most happiness to the most people. Smart argues that under Rule utilitarianism basic moral principles (i.e. don't steal, don't lie) are simply non-existent. This is because in some situations it may cause more happiness to lie and in those scenarios there should be no reservations in lying. Thomas Hobbes' effectively and persuasively argues for his beliefs in his book, The Leviathan. His strength in his convictions solidifies his arguments to audiences of both high expertise and those with less formal education in the subject. Thomas Hobbes, being a renowned philosopher, brings with his book a very high respect from philosophers of every kind. This reputation is another positive attribute that sets Hobbes apart from the crowd and consequently makes his work a verifiably good source. Ironically, the age of this writing acts as a positive characteristic in its reputability as a good source. Although its first publication was in 1651, there have been few, if any deviations to his ideology. Hobbes, being a philosopher before his time, became a forerunner and set the standard by which most modern philosophers follow. J.J.C. Smart also expostulates effectively. In his arguments he is clear and concise and steers away from the pompous tone that philosophers sometimes enlist that causes the reading to be dull. His grounds also seem to be rooted in a great amount of his individual belief in his subject matter. Smart is extremely capable of displaying his passion for his thesis through his writing. Although not as well known as Thomas Hobbes, Smart does have a worthy reputation within the realms of philosophy. Conversely to Hobbes, Smart's