MCAT Scoring 101

MCAT Score Frequently Asked Questions    MCAT scoring information will no doubt have you lying awake at night, worried that you may have missed something. Sometimes, you can get so worried about your score, that it prohibits you from doing your absolute best on the exam itself. Lets not go there, shall we? Heres MCAT Scoring 101. This article contains details about how your MCAT score works, so you dont divert any of those very important brain cells toward needless fretfulness. Trust me, youll have enough to worry about when it comes time to prepare for this bad boy! MCAT Scoring Basics When you get your MCAT score report back, youll see scores for the four multiple choice sections:  Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems,  Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems,  Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior, and  Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills  (CARS).  Ã‚   MCAT Score Report When you get your score report back, youll see your percentile ranks, confidence bands and score profiles. The percentile rank is merely how well youve done in comparison to others whove taken your exam. Youll see percentile ranks for every one of the four sections and your overall score. The confidence bands are visual clues to show the approximate area where your score lies, since the scores from the MCAT will never be perfectly precise (statistics rarely are). The confidence bands help discourage distinctions between test-takers with really similar scores. The score profiles show your weaknesses and strengths across all four sections.   MCAT Scoring Numbers Each one of the four sections can earn you between a 118 and a 132, making your highest possible cumulative score a 528 since the cumulative score is the sum of the four sections instead of an average. At press time, the national MCAT score average was a 500.   MCAT Raw to Scaled Scoring Your scores are based on the number of questions you answer correctly, but since you realize that you will be answering more than 15 questions per section, there is some score scaling involed. You are not penalized for incorrect or incomplete answers; only your accurate answers are counted.  The scaling system is not a constant thing, either, in order to account for different questions on different exams. A new raw to scaled score table is defined for each MCAT administration to provide for variances in testing questions. MCAT Scoring Retrieval So, how do you get your score report? In order to retrieve your MCAT scores, youll need to use the MCAT Testing History (THx) System on the AAMC website and will have to have an AAMC login user name and password. The THx is the online score release site that you use to view your scores and send them to different application services/schools. Your scores will be available about 30 – 35 days after you test, so keep that in mind when you register if youre pushing your application deadline! Current MCAT Score Release Dates Sending Your MCAT Scores Once you access your score report after logging in, click the link that reads â€Å"send all my scores.† On the next screen, you can scroll through different application services and schools to which youd like to submit your scores. Click the recipients youd like and then scroll to the bottom of the screen and hit Submit to send your scores. Since AAMC has a full disclosure policy, you may not send select scores to schools. If you choose to send, youll be sending every one of your MCAT scores from each test administration if youve tested more than once. More MCAT Scoring Information So, now you know the basics! If youd like more answers to all of your MCAT scoring questions, then take a peek at these MCAT Score FAQs to find out about things like what good MCAT scores look like based on the top 15 schools, average national MCAT scores, score percentiles and more!

Photography Annotated Bibliography Essay - 2466 Words

Practiced by thousands who shared no common tradition or training from the earliest days of taking photos, the first photographers were disciplined and united by no academy or guild, who considered their medium variously as a trade, a science, an art, or an entertainment, and who often were unaware of each other’s work. Exactly as it sounds photography means photo-graphing. The word photography comes from two Greek words, photo, or â€Å"light†, and graphos, or drawing and from the start of photography; the history of the aforementioned has been debated. The idea of taking pictures started some thirty-one thousand years ago when strikingly sophisticated images of bears, rhinoceroses, bison, horses and many other types of creators were†¦show more content†¦Certain mile stones in taking pictures during the first two decades of photography were marked by rapid commercialization and many photographers bowed to the commerciality and uninspired demands of their cu stomers, however there were those who were separating themselves from the bustling photographic factories and portrait studios and instead immersed themselves into a new class of â€Å"artist† by using the camera to express creative photographic visions. Whether it was used in society, documentation, or art the camera was obviously used, and are used to this day. â€Å"It is perhaps worth stating the obvious; the camera is central to our understanding of photography.†- John Szarkowski. ² The first (daguerreotype) cameras did not only weigh over 100 pounds but were expensive as well. A large sum of 400 francs, equal to six months’ salary for a skilled worker was needed to purchase a daguerreotype, and they also had to be experienced with the chemical process to develop their photos. Photographers where given more freedom to move out of the portrait studio and explore the world around them through photography when William Henry Fox Talbot developed the collotype and â€Å"wet plate† technique in England during 1841. The advantage of using the collotype process was that you could produce a paper negative which could be used to make numerous prints on specially treated paper. 2. Gustavon, Todd. Camera: A History of Photography from daguerreotype to Digital. NewShow MoreRelatedHistory of Photography: Annotated Bibliography1047 Words   |  4 PagesAnnotated Bibliography on the History of Photography Baker, George. Photographys Expanded Field. October, Vol. 114, 120 140, 2005 This piece describes the current manifestations of photography are. This piece calls photographys expanded space, the screen. Photographys expanded space is the screen for a few reasons. One of which is that a great deal of the media of choice consumed in vast quantities around the world come photography. Cinema is a direct descendant photography, as it is a seriesRead MoreAnnotated Bibliography: Photography and Film605 Words   |  2 Pagesï » ¿Annotated Bibliography George Eastman. (2006, Mar 16). Retrieved from New World Encyclopedia: http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/George_Eastman George Eastman invented roll film and an easy to operate camera that made photography easier for anyone to experience photography. He founded the Eastman Kodak Company to manufacture cameras and photographic supplies, making the art of photography available to the masses. This talks about his life and how he came about the inventions that madeRead MoreThe Role Of Visual Arts For Stage Interventions Into The Representation Of The Female Self722 Words   |  3 Pagesmythology and religion; understand the confrontation between subject and object in women representation; analyse the practices associated with Surrealism which presented women artists with the potential to disrupt traditional ways of seeing. †¨ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY †¨Ã¢â‚¬ ¨MIRROR: ITS FUNCTION IN ART - HOW CONTEMPORARY WOMEN ARTISTS CHALLENGED TRADITIONAL ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES†¨ Facing Ourselves: The Changing Role of  Portraiture https://nbmaa.wordpress.com/2011/06/21/facing-ourselves-the-changing-role-of-portraiture/†¨ItRead MoreEssay on Personal Challenges and Transformation as a Writer1034 Words   |  5 PagesAnais Nin, a Cuban author, once said, â€Å"We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospection†. Writing is like photography. It has a thousand different meanings and will always be there for times of reminiscing. It has been an important part of my life by enabling me to convey my inner thoughts that cannot easily be spoken. It serves as proof of my greatest memories, but also moments of despair. However, there were several obstacles and hurdles that had prevented me from writingRead MoreArt Is My Career Choice872 Words   |  4 PagesMaking this a very difficult career choice for me. As for skills I ve gained that with my art program in middle school, being an art major in high school. As well as the summer program with groundswell. And college classes with Pratt. Annotated bibliography â€Å"Groundswell.† Groundswell. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Sept. 2016. Grounds was founded in 1996 by a group of NYC artist, educators, and activist. About 500 murals have been created with work demonstrating community which create positive changesRead MoreExploring Employment Seeking Behaviors Of Persons With Hiv / Aids1579 Words   |  7 Pagesphotovoice to young participants in order to develop a curriculum and replicate it. The project participants received a total of 20 two-hour sessions where they were trained on different components of the photovoice methodology: introduction to photography, photo ethics, power, consent and safety, and photographic techniques, among others. The authors describe photovoice as a very powerful tool for young students. It gives them the opportunity to develop their social identities that result in theRead MoreEssay on Georgia OKeefe (includes annotated bibliography)2286 Words   |  10 PagesGeorgia O’Keefe (word count includes annotated bibliography) Georgia O’Keefe is a famous American painter who painted beautiful flowers and landscapes. But she painted these images in such a way that many people believed she was portraying sexual imagery. â€Å"O’Keefe’s depictions of flowers in strict frontality and enlarged to giant scale were entirely original in character . . . the view into the open blossoms evoked an image of the female psyche and invited erotic associations.† (Joachimides 47)Read MoreSemiotics And Interactive Design Of Black And White Essay2968 Words   |  12 PagesIntroduction For my Annotated Research Kit, I have explored Black and White (colours), semiotics and interactive design. The first keyword I have explored is Black and White. This is an illustration style that I have up until recently, been using in my studio work, and in my own personal practices as a graphic designer. Black and White also fits in with the culture of today’s younger generation, in which their taste of visual style and graphic design preference fits in with my Black and White designRead MoreAura in Walter Benjamins Illuminations2134 Words   |  9 Pagesgood counsel offers. The â€Å"White Eagle† encourages quotation of different passages in order for a summary to be made and offered as a sacrifice to the luke-warm reader. However, the storyteller’s traditional place is not one of summaries, annotated bibliographies, or cliff notes. Time was meant to be integral in the creation of a story which is only preserved in the social fabric of history. The uniqueness of any event, object, or idea depends upon its temporal qualities. Time and space dictateRead MoreIB EE GUIDE9051 Words   |  37 Pagesto find your sources fast 11 I can’t find it on Google, where do I look? 12 All topics 12 Humanities Literature 12 Sciences 13 Encyclopaedias 14 Magazines 14 eBooks 14 Referencing, Bibliographies and Citations 15 What is a bibliography? 15 What is a citation? 15 Examples of citation bibliography 16 Website 16 e-book 16 Image online 16 Interview 16 Generic Extended Essay Feedback Form 17 Extended Essay Study Plan 20 Business Management 21 Overview 21 Choice of topic 21 Treatment

Apollo 13 Movie Review Essay - 1971 Words

Apollo 13: Movie review Harshal Kalinkar CED 529 Lifespan Human Development Arizona State University Apollo 13 The purpose of writing this paper is to identify and evaluate the developmental themes which are shown in the Apollo 13 movie. It will reflect on how the themes are related to Developmental Theories and its implications for Counselors for setting counseling goals and intervention. In addition, the reflection of developmental themes and theories and its implications for counselors has also been covered. This paper has been divided into five major parts; 1. Movie overview 2. Developmental themes addressed 3. Relationship of themes to developmental theories 4. Counseling goals and interventions 5. Reflection ïÆ'Ëœ Movie overview: Apollo 13 is a 1995 American space adventure film directed by Ron Howard. The film depicts astronauts Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise aboard Apollo 13 for America s third Moon landing mission. En route, an on-board explosion deprives their spacecraft of most of its oxygen supply and electric power, forcing NASA s flight controllers to abort the Moon landing, and turning the mission into a struggle to get the three men home safely. Deke Slayton the boss of astronauts Jim Lovell, informs Jim that he and his crew will fly the Apollo 13 mission instead of Apollo 14. Jim Lovell, Ken Mattingly, and Fred Haise train for their new mission. Days before the launch, Mattingly is discovered to have been exposed to rubella, and theShow MoreRelatedMovie Review : Apollo 132667 Words   |  11 Pages Film Review: Apollo 13 Three men shivered in the cold, dark spaceship as it floated through space, unsure if they would return to Earth after the first disaster to occur in space. During the early 1960’s, America was fascinated with the Space Race. The United States became the first country to put a man on the moon, and the exploration did not stop there. Apollo 13 tells the story of three astronauts that were supposed to go to the moon. On the journey there, part of the ship exploded, causingRead MoreLife, Liberty, The Pursuit Of Happiness1852 Words   |  8 Pagesplaces can you go and get what America has to offer. ‘Of, relating to, or characteristic of the United States or its inhabitants†, this is the definition of ‘American’ according to Google. Why is this ‘relevant’, you might ask? Lets take a look back, Apollo 13 and Argo films showed just what its like to represent America, and embodied what the American dream is made of, and what it is like to come from such great mishap and end with such bright and awe inspiring conclusions. It has also shown us that evenRead MoreApollo 13 Case Analysis1599 Words   |  7 PagesGreen Team Apollo 13 Case Analysis The primary questions and issues you debated and discussed (i.e., what did your team think was most relevant about the case?). First, the green team discussed the success of the mission. We had a split jury on whether or not we thought the mission was successful. Both sides of the argument were well supported and we agreed to disagree with the following conclusions: one side took the stance that the mission was not successful because they did not make it to theRead MoreQuantitative Data Problem Solving1790 Words   |  8 Pagesdescribes (BusinessDictionary.com, 2010). Why then, don’t we – as a society – use it more? It would seem that our biases toward everything from race and gender to reality and fantasy get in the way. One need look no further than the classic movie â€Å"12 Angry Men† (Rose Lumet, 1957), about a dissenting juror in a murder trial who slowly manages to convince the others that the case is not as obviously clear as it seemed in court, to see that all is not as it seems to be. Even in the face of evidenceRead MoreEssay on Apollo 13 Case Study1310 Words   |  6 PagesApollo 13 Case Study Apollo 13 has experience a major malfunction which changes the mission from landing on the moon to a spacecraft that is now is in a desperate struggle to return to earth with the crew alive. The team work needed to achieve this is substantial and many of the staff at mission control center will in some degree be a leader. Aside from Gene Kranz, one of the first people to emerge as a leader and take control of the situation is Sy Liebergot. His reviewRead MoreNetflix : Case Analysis : Netflix1087 Words   |  5 Pagesmore popular than DVDs, Hasting guessed that the DVDs will get popular and this was an opportunity for them to win the market so they attempted a DVD-by-mail rent service which was an idea that Hastings got it from after paying a $40 late fee for Apollo 13 in 1997. This DVD-by-mail rent service without a subscription was not popular, so Netflix launched the subscription service with a free trail for a month on September 23, 1999 and found that 80% of customers renewed after the free trail ended. InRead MoreNetflix : A Great Influence On The Home Entertainment Environment1232 Words   |  5 PagesProfessor Dumas Senior Seminar in Informatics Final Paper Draft 4/27/15 THESIS Netflix is revolutionary company operating in an incredibly dynamic industry populated by both longstanding and new competitors. In one hand, Netflix has partnered with movie and television studios to provide access to feature-length movies and episodic TV shows in the same manner that existed when the medium was designed- DVD rental. In the other hand, Netflix is operating with growing role of computer-enabled devicesRead MoreMovie Review : The Movie, Philadelphia And A Dumb Man Who Experienced Many Important Events Throughout History1700 Words   |  7 PagesTom Hanks once said, â€Å"Sometimes a man just wants the impossible.† In his lifetime, most would agree that Hanks achieved the impossible through his acting career; he personalized many influential movie parts from a gay lawyer with AIDS in the movie Philadelphia to a dumb man who experienced many important events throughout history in Forrest Gump. This shift in the acting world happened on July 9, 1956 when a star w as born. Thomas Jeffrey Hanks was born in Concord, California; his parents names areRead MoreNetflix Marketing Promotion1603 Words   |  7 PagesReed Hasting was charged late fees for returning a rented copy of Apollo 13. This inspired him and Marc Randolph, previous coworker at Pure Software, to create Netflix in 1997. The following year the website was launch with an online version of pay-per-rental model ($4.00 per rental plus $2.00 in postage; late fees applied). In September 1999, monthly subscription was introduced. Since then it has a reputation on the business model of flat-fee unlimited rentals without due dates, late fees, shippingRead More The Sound of Music Essay2412 Words   |  10 PagesFilm Editing, Best Film-Musical, Best Color Cinematography, and Best Costume design (Freiden par3). The movie is based upon the true story of the VonTrapp family and allows its audience to relive their family experience as well as their flight from Nazism just before the outbreak of World War Two. So why is it that even today, The Sound of Music is still the most popular movie-musical ever made? (20th Century Fox). The musical film presented a sound that inspired a generation

My Lack Of Knowledge On Vietnam - 1730 Words

Due to my lack of knowledge on Vietnam I did not understand some the main ideas that Doung Thu Houng addresses in Paradise of the Blind, such as the importance of family. The interactive oral helped me understand the reasons why Que and Aunt Tam had altars to honor their ancestors. I found it strange that they had altars for their dead relatives, where they offered food to them. I found it odd because in the Ethiopian culture I was raised upon we do not have ancestral alters or worship our ancestors. We only offer offerings to God, since my family is Orthodox. The concept of offering food to the dead was really intrigue because they believe that not only are they honoring they’re dead but also could potentially get blessings from their ancestors. I questioned how the dead was going to help the living because I believed only God could give you blessings. I thought it was a waste of food since Hang and her mother were struggling to eat. One of the group’s topics was on f ood and they addressed the reason why the Vietnamese people offered food. It was their way of fulfilling their duty by taking care of the diseased, which they believe existed in another realm, and in return of their worship and care, the ancestors would give advice and bestow good fortune. I have learned from the interactive oral presentations that family is really important in Vietnam. They helped me understand why Que did the things she did for her brother such as starving herself and her only daughter toShow MoreRelatedGuerilla Warfare in the Vietnam War620 Words   |  3 PagesA small country such as North Vietnam was able to win a war against a superpower like the United States of America, through, namely, tactics – such as Guerrilla Warfare -, the ignorance of their enemy, the attitude of the South Vietnamese, as well as a strong leader such as Ho Chi Minh. The Vietnam War was a major conflict (of the Cold War) which lasted from 1959 to 1975 , with US involvement from 1964 to 1973 . US reasons for their involvement in the war was their fear of â€Å"The Domino Effect† -Read MoreThe War Of The Vietnam War Essay1158 Words   |  5 Pageswar in vietnam is but a symptom of a far deeper malady within the American spirit.† Martin Luther King, Jr. once said. The Vietnam War was considered one of America’s greatest defeats of all time. Not only did the US failed to stop the spread of communism, but they also embarrassed this country as a whole with the outcome of this war. The overall outcome from this war will be remembered for years to come. In this essay, I will be talking about how the United States would have won the Vietnam war ifRead MoreShould Vietnamese Overseas Students Come Home Or Not?1649 Words   |  7 Pagesoverseas students come home or not? There is a very famous quiz show in Vietnam called â€Å"Road to Olympia†, which was first aired in 1999 and is organized once a year to find the best high school students in the country to receive scholarships granted by Swinburne University of Technology to study abroad in Australia. Only one of the 16 students who were awarded scholarships to study abroad had returned back home to Vietnam to work after graduation. Statistics on educational website nozomi.edu.vnRead MoreMy Life - Original Writing Essay981 Words   |  4 PagesMy sweaty body stuck to the plastic chair as I eyed the forbidden glass of ice water. Slowly, my fingertips inched across the table, brushing against the cool surface, before they were brusquely swatted away by my mother. â€Å"Don’t even think about it.† She hissed under her breath, and then gave me the warning look that all mothers across the globe have mastered. It was the summer of 2000 and my family was visiting relatives in my parent’s native country, Vietnam. Being so young, I was less concernedRead MoreHarry S. Trumans Decision to Drop the Atomic Bomb1857 Words   |  7 Pagesintervention combats Communism’s spread in The Vietnam War. Although the U.S. thought it was necessary to intervene the My Lai Massacre along with other horrific incidents of violence, Communism’s spread and the major disapproval of the war effort characterized the Vietnam War as a failed attempt by the United States to avert unification by Communist nationalist forces in order to preserve and instill Democracy in Vietnam’s government. The Vietnam War’s initial purpose seemed to be clear: to destroyRead MoreAmerica s Involvement Of The Vietnam War1008 Words   |  5 Pagesbecause that s what happened to us.† That was my very first question when my grandfather first told me about the most brutal and longest wars America has ever been in, the Vietnam War. America’s involvement in the conflict was to stop the evil and corrupt system of Communism. French forces were dead meat unless America teamed up with them. Unfortunately, this didn t stop the nonmoral army under Ho Chi Minh. The United Sates did not win the Vietnam War due to strong motivation, Guerrilla warfareRead MoreRoles Of Women During The Vietnam War1291 Words   |  6 PagesThe roles of women and men in the Vietnam War varied greatly due the stereotypical characterizations of society. While women were not included in the draft, protected from its brutality and tragedies, men were forced from their homes, enlisted in the army. In Oâ₠¬â„¢Brien’s The Things They Carried, women are portrayed as apathetic towards Vietnam soldiers. They are the homebound sex, too fragile and moral to be aware of the world outside their own, and unable to empathize with the emotional baggage thatRead MoreThe Things They Carried By Tim O Brien1459 Words   |  6 Pages1950’s, the Vietnam War turned to be the modern pinnacle for battles resulting in the deaths of 58,000 American soldiers and millions of Vietnamese death. It saw the viable destruction of modern technology such as the newly fashioned M-16 rifle and the Apache, a helicopter made for mass destruction. For the soldiers experiencing Vietnam, it was truly an experience which would shape their hearts and minds forever. As evidenced in Tim O’ Brien’s The Things They Carried, The Vietnam War was an emotionalRead MoreEssay about Why the U.S. Withdrew Its Forces from Vietnam in 1973924 Words   |  4 PagesWithdrew Its Forces from Vietnam in 1973 The USA’s involvement in Vietnam started in 1954, for a few reasons. Firstly, the Americans were, as always, concerned with the spread of communism. They wanted to stop communism spreading through south-east Asia. They were worried that if one country were to fall to a communist leader, so would neighbouring countries. This was known as the Domino Theory. These reasons for joining the war in Vietnam and the fact that theRead MoreGender Roles in Vietnam and in the United States1178 Words   |  5 PagesThis paper I interviewed my grandmother with gender role because I think she knows more about that. So she could help me understand more about gender roles between the two countries such as Vietnam and the United States as well as what is a difference compared to the past and present. My grandmother was born and raised in Vietnam has more than 45 years ago, before my grandmother emigrated and lived in the United States so far. I posed various questions about the gender role with her. She replied

Road Safety Essay Example For Students

Road Safety Essay ROAD SAFETYIt has been statistically shown that during the past five years, the number of fatalities and injuries associated with road accidents are steadily increasing. Fatalities due to road incidents have now reached a grand total of 181 (1999), significantly greater than its total, five years ago, in 1995, which was 105. Since 1995, road deaths have increased by an average of 14 people per year. This type of carnage impedes the positive growth of our country and needs to be stopped. I think the most important factor that needs to be looked at in our goal to sustainable development is social responsibility. That is, drivers need to have a responsible attitude and a level of maturity when given this privilege. The attitude of drivers plays a major role in road safety. Drivers need to be cautious, and sensitive to all the rules and safety regulations of the road. Safe habits need to be adopted and practised constantly. Drivers must take responsibility for their condition at all times. For example, if some external stimuli affects normal bodily activities, such as normal vision or normal reaction time, for example, alcohol or drugs, drivers should not drive. Drivers who feel sick, tired, or upset should also not drive during these periods. If drivers use corrective lenses, these should always be worn. All these are elements of social responsibility. It must be understood by all drivers that driving is the privilege of mature, responsible individuals who need to recognise that things such as these are potentially dangerous, if not taken seriously. Road rules such as speed limits and no parking zones also need to be strictly adhered to by drivers. Due to drivers disobeying these simple rules, they significantly increase the risk of accidents and make it difficult for other drivers in the process. Typical examples of drivers practising very unsafe habits in Trinidad are drivers who cut people off in traffic, because they are in a hurry and drivers who make sudden lane changes or attempt to outrun yellow lights. Drivers however are not the only ones to be blamed. Drivers cannot effectively drive safely in unsafe conditions. For this reason, next in line of importance when addressing safety on roads is general infrastructure of the country. Roads should be properly maintained in order to function safely and efficiently as means of allowing transport to take place. Impediments on roads cause drivers to lose control over their vehicles and force drivers to make illegal moves. If impediments such as potholes, stones, tree branches etc. are present drivers would need to infringe upon traffic flowing in the opposite direction in order to pass. Should these impediments be remedied, roads will be made safer to a significant degree. Maintenance of infrastructure should also include properly functioning lights on roadsides for night drivers and properly maintained street signs and traffic directing arrows. Many accidents are caused due to improperly lighted streets. Drivers are unable to see oncoming vehicles in time and thus collide. Some streets have improperly functioning lights while some street have no lights at all. This is a major safety breach. A great many accidents are similarly caused by vandalised or missing street s igns. Drivers who are familiar with signless routes will tend to drive at a confident speed while unsuspecting novice drivers to the same route might turn to go the wrong way on a one way street and this could result in loss of lives. Good infrastructure is a necessity in the area of safe driving. Areas of congestion are also common key locations of road injuries. Congestion tempts drivers to make illegal and dangerous turns, violate road laws and also provides temptations such as overtaking in critical areas, such as intersections, which is definitely harmful and dangerous. .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 , .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .postImageUrl , .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 , .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:hover , .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:visited , .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:active { border:0!important; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 { 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; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:active , .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .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; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4 .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ub3f9339543bdc45d84530971241482a4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: The use of narrative in film EssayProblems such as these can be solved by the introduction of traffic wardens in key locations who will regulate the passage of vehicles and thus ensure a smooth, freely flowing line of traffic which avoids putting temptation before drivers. Another alternative is making aware to the public, other routes which enable drivers to reach the same destination. This will altogether avoid the problem of congestion and reduce harmful road incidents. Sometimes, congestion is caused by avoidable reasons such as too many businesses located in a specific area, or cars which are parked on roadsides preventing free flow of traffic, or even roadside vendors, crowding into streets, blocking vehicles. Surveillance is an answer to this situation. If the reason for the traffic buildups are determined and fixed, petty road injuries can be thus avoided. For example, decentralisation can be undertaken if the problem lies with too many businesses. However, only after surveillance can this possible solution be diagnosed. To prevent congestion also, parking meters should be introduced not to force but to provide a gentle reminder that parking on roadsides constricts free traffic flow, although where they may have parked would be legal, it does increase the probability of road accidents. Laws restricting drivers to safe practices should be implemented. Although there are already some, extremely strict adherance to these laws should be observed in order to groom drivers to safe practices and to make them consciously aware that there may be more than one consequence of speeding or drunk driving. Additionally, in the minds of some drivers, much unclarity exists about some of the signs, practices and speed limits observed in different areas of the country. When a driver is pulled over therefore, pamphlets and booklets on safe driving and road rules should be issued to them in addition to the fin e that they would be required to pay. It would also be a good idea that whenever a driver is pulled over because of speeding etc. that he should attend a safety driving course. Thus, if safe driving habits are not practised on the roads, practice of these safe habits in the course which they will need to tediously attend, every time they are caught offending the road laws, will, by default make those skills habitual. Spot checks should also be more frequently done. These checks should not only be centered on looking for sober drivers or on looking for protective safety belts installed on cars but should also include quick checks on the vehicle itself to ensure that it is in good working condition to be allowed on the roads. Functioning lights, good tyres, good brakes, and darkness of tint on vehicles should all be looked at because it is also these things that lead to accidents. Improperly functioning brakes have been known to have caused many accidents which could have been avoided. It is common belief that new drivers are the cause of the majority of road deaths. While I do not believe this, I think a compulsory defensive driving course should be taken before new drivers are allowed on roads to help with road safety. Finally, the non-driving population should be quite sensitive and co-operative to the needs of the driving population. For example, pedestrians should not suddenly dart across or walk very slowly across busy roadways, but should observe road rules just as closely as should a driver. People should also not allow their animals to run loose in areas of busy roads. These animals tend to distract drivers and make them lose control of the vehicle by dashing into the vehicles path. People should therefore have control over the roaming areas of their pets. .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec , .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .postImageUrl , .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec , .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:hover , .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:visited , .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:active { border:0!important; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec { 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; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:active , .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .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; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc5d49d8c0c366c049f165cf83d7a7fec:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Spartacus EssayIn conclusion, the practice of road safety rules and regulations at all times is a must for all drivers, regardless of age, in order that people do not lose their lives in this most tragic manner. 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Greatness of Harshavardhana free essay sample

The age of Harsha was a trubulent one. Yet, the general life of people was a prosperous one. In estimating the social life of people during the Harsha, We have to keep in view the administration of Harsha, for the social life of a people anywhere in olden days, to some extent was influenced by its administrative system. Hiuen-Tsang attributes commendable administrative vigilance to Harsha made tours of inspection throughout his kingdom, and promoted benevolent activities like construction and maintenance of roads, sarais, hospitals, etcl. Hiuen-Tsang states as the government is generous officals requirements are few. Families are not registered and individuals are not subject to forced labour contributions the kings tenants pay one-sixth of the products as the rent. But talking of justice, cruel punishment continued. Trial by or deal was common. For offences against social morality, disloyal and inferior conduct, the punishment ws to cut of the nose, ear, hand, foot or to banish the offender to another country or into wilderness. Hiuen-Tsnad maintains that as the government was honestly administrated and the people lived on good terms the criminal classes was small. But Chinese pilgrim about whom special care may have been taken by the government was robbed of his belongings, although he records that according to the laws of the land severe punishments wre inflicted for cirme. Robbery wsa considered to be a second treason for which the right hand of the robber was amputated. But it seems that under the influence of Buddhism the severity of punishment was mitigated, and criminals were imprisoned for life. Talking of political life, in most cases kingshop was hereditary although at times a king was nominated by his predecessor or elected by people or nobels. Nandivarman Pallava was raised to the throne by the mula prakritis. At Thaneshwar the crown was offered to Harsha by a council of nobles headed by Bhandi. Secondly the tradition that the welfare of king depends on the welfare of people was still believed in. Fa-Hien, Hiue-Tsang and Suleiman record that rulers did their best to live up to this anciant maxim. Fourthly quite a number of important rulers loved learning and patronized the arts. Harsha, Mahendra varman, Amoghavarsha I, Bhoja of Dhar somesware III of Kalyan and Ballala Sena of Bengal were writers of no mean repute. Fitthly, the king was all important even though has was assisted by Ministers. Manus recommendation of council of seven or eight ministers was normally followed Sixthly the chief source of revenue was land-one-sixth of its produce. A few other taxes were imposed on ports, ferries, etc. Apart from taxation, returns from royal lands, mines etc. and tributes from vassals filled royal coffers. Finally, kingdoms were divided into smaller units for the convenience of administration. And royal armies mostly relied on elephants, infantry and cavalry. From the features delineated above, one can easily deduce that the political structure of the day did impinge upon the lives of people. Relating to social life, Hiuen-Tsang metions four chief castes and also innumerable sub-castes. But Bana mentions that castes mixed freely. Bana even makes mention of his two brothers born of Shudras. The Chinese traveler, Hiuen-Tsang, refers to prohibition, widow-remarriage and the costom of sati. Yet, women were not regarded as inferior to men. Som of the royal ladies were skilled in music and dancing. Rajyasri sat along with Harsha and listened to the discourses on Buddhism. Interestingly, Hiuen-Tsang notes the absence of tailors and shoe-makers; the simplicity of brahmins and kshatriyas; the luxuries of kings nobels and rich men; honesty and morality of the people because of the fear of retribution in life to come: and, suicide of very old men of people afflicted with incurable diseases in the Ganges. Another interesting point mentioned by him is the etiquette of lifting the turban as a mark of greeting is social gatherings. Regarding the temperament of people, the travelers note that they were hasty and inecisve but moral. The people were not deceitful by nature and valued their pledges and promises. The country was prosperous. Vegetables and minerals were abundant. Fish and mutton were consumed occasionally. Onions and garlic were not much used. The brahmins and kshatriyas are reported to have led a simple life, but the nobles and priests led a luxurious life. Hiuen-Tsang calls the Shudras agriculturists, which is significant. In the earlier texts they are represented as serving the three higher varnes. The Chinese pilgrim takes note of untouchables such as scavengers, executioners, etc. They lived outside the villages and consumed garlic and onion. The untouchables announced their entry into the town by shouting loudly so that people might keep awap from them. Coming to the cultural life of people, we cannot ignore the contribution of Harsha to it. Probably Harsh wrote the three dramas Ratnavali, Priadarshika and Nagananda in Sanskrit. The Chinese traveler, I-Tsing recorded that Harsh versified the story of Jimutayahana in Nagananda and extremely fond of iterature. It is contended that the Banskhera and Madhuban copper-plate inscriptions were probably composed by Harsha himself. The other works attributed to him are the two Sanskrit stotras in praise of the Buddha and a work on grammer. Besides Harsha, Bana was the Chief poet who wrote Hadembari and is also supposed to have written theParvati-parinay and the Chandiskata, A writer Mayura was a master of erotic poetry. A other litera ry figure was Matanga Divakara. Apart from royal court, the sylvan ashramas were the centers of intellectual activity. Bana records a detailed account of the ashrama of the Buddhist saga Divakaramitra in the Vindhyas. Hiuen-Tsand credits the people of the middle country with clearness and correctness of speech. According to him children were taught the five subjects of grammer, mechanical arts, medicine, logic and philosophy from the seventh year onwards. He was all praise for the great scholars of the day. Among educational centers the most famous was the Nalanda university. It attained international repute. It was patronized by Kumaragupta I, and also by Hrasha. The famous teachers of the university were Dignaga, Dharmapala and Shilabhara. The teacher, Dharmapala, originally belonged to the city of Kanchi and wrote books on Buddhist logic and metaphysics. It was during the time of Shilabhadra that Hiuen-Tsang visited Nalanda. Even though the university was a Mahayana institution, brahminical subjects like the Vadas were included in the curriculum. Those who sought admission in the university were examined by the keepers of the gate. It is said that not more than 20 per cent of candidates could pass this examination of the gate-keepers. There was no fee for education. Boarding lodging and clothing were free. The university derived its revenues from the villages granted to it by royalty. During the time of Hiuen-Tsang there were about 10,000 student and women were also included in it. I-Tsing says that the discipline was strict at Nalanda. Sanskrit was the medium of instruction. The method of teaching was primarily tutorial even though there were some lectures. Time was regulated by a water-clocl. I-Tsing says that there were eight halls and 300 rooms in this university. It possessed an observatory and a laboratory also. With regard to art, the Guptam style was continued. Hiuen-Tsang refers to a copper statute of the Buddha. The brick temple of Laxmana at Surpur is one of the most beautiful in India, unsurpassed in the richness and refinement of its ornaments. Talking of religion, it was a remarkable era. In the Gupta period brahminism re-asserted itself. The reading of the Gita was popular with intelligentsia. The leader of Hindu reformation Sankara, in the 8th century, commented on the Gita. By the time of Alberuni it was so popular that Alberuni quotes the text of the Gita. Nevertheless, Hinduism, of the Gupta age witnessed a set-back some developed the dectrine of mimamsa. The doctrine was quite ancient but it became popular with prabhakara at the end of the sixth century. Another great exponent of it was Kumarila in the 7th century. Another doctrine imprimarily concerned with the technique of thought, that is, it is only concerned with rituals. The Mimamsa lives in a world of self-revealed Vedas and is concerned only with correct performance of the rites as laid down. This doctrine was poles apart from popular puranic religion of people. Also, it contradicts the idea of a popular personal deity which is to be realized either through bhakti or yoga. Luckily this barren ritualism was attacked by Sankara in the 8th century. Here we must also note that Buddhism was on the declire. Hiuen-Tsang notes the dacay of Buddhism even though he was not conscious of it. But Buddhism gained popularity in Kanara, in certain parts of UP and in Bengal. Thus, there is nothing unique about the life of people during the age of Harsha. The creative urge witnessed in the Gupta period continued. Yet, as the future was to prove, the quiet greatness of this age was only as afterglow.

Japan and Korea Essay Example For Students

Japan and Korea Essay INTRODUCTION : a brief overview of the current situation regarding the security issue in the Pacific regionSince the end of the Second World War, the shape of the relations between the nations in the Pacific region has stayed more or less the same way until the present. However, there has been one big changed that affected the situation in the Pacific region and it was the outbreak of the Korean war and the creation of a Communist North Korea. This brought a huge inevitable change in relations between countries in the region. The stability that was brought about with the end of the Second World War disappeared and a new type of tension appeared. This especially affected the relations between the Korea and Japan to a great extent. In the past few years, the two countries have been seeking cooperation for the common aim of keeping the security in the Pacific region but things did not always work out fine due to many reasons including the historic background of two countries. In this pa per, the historical background, the chronology of main events, the development of the relations and the current situation regarding the security and cultural issues, between Korea and Japan will be examined and analysed, which will be followed by a conclusion. THE HISTORICAL BACKGROUNDThe relations between and Korea and Japan has a long history. The first exchange of goods and information between the two goes back to the era of Three Countries and since then the relations between the two developed both in good and bad ways until now. There has always been lack of balance of power between the two nations. Back in thousands of years ago, Korea was the one that had more power and helped Japan develop her culture and since the late Chosun era, Japan has been the more powerful one. Conflicts between Korea and Japan continued and the ill feelings towards each other reached the top when Japan colonized Korea. As a result, the history of the Korea-Japan relations is full of conflicts and ill feelings towards each other and even during the time of temporary peace for the 2002 World Cup, small diplomatic conflicts continue. BASIC STATISTICSDiplomatic relations(a) December 18, 1965: Normalization of diplomatic ties between Japan and the Republic of Korea (b) Number of Japanese in the Republic of Korea: 15,217 persons (as of October 1 1999; 14,648 long-term residents, 569 permanent residents) (c) Number of Koreans in Japan: 636,000 persons (as of December 1 1999; includes North Koreans in Japan) Economic relations(a) Republic of Koreas trade with JapanTrade figures (1999 Korean customs base)*Exports: $15.86 billion (textile products, electric machinery, metal products, oil products, machinery)*Imports: $24.14 billion (electric machinery, machinery, metal products, precesion machinery, chemical products, light industry products)(b) Direct investment from Japan: $175 million (1999) (http://www.mofa.go.jp/stats.html, 27 May 2002)DEVELOPMENTS IN CULTURAL AND DISPLMATIC RELATIONSThe cooperative relationship between Japan and the ROK is vital to the peace and prosperity of East Asia, and particularly essential in advancing policy on North Korea. Through the visit to Japan by ROK President Kim Dae Jung in 1998, as well as the ROK visit by Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi in 1999, the two nations put the issues of the past behind them and have been working to build a relationship between countries with a close geographical and diplomatic relationship. As in 1999, 2000 saw the development of wide-ranging exchange based on the Japan-Republic of Korea Joint Declaration: A New Japan-Republic of Korea Partnership towards the Twenty-first Century, signed in 1998, and its annexed action plan, with bilateral cooperation further reinforced toward the development of future-oriented relations. In addition, the opening of the ROK to Japanese culture which has been proceeding under President Kim Dae Jung moved even further ahead, with the great popularity of film screenings and performances of popular songs in both countries marking the start of a new era in Japan-ROK cultural exchange. Japan, a brief histor y (Yamaoto Shinji)Words/ Pages : 654 / 24

What Does Shakespeare Want His Audience To Think About the Character of Shylock Essay Example

What Does Shakespeare Want His Audience To Think About the Character of Shylock Essay The play The Merchant of Venice was written by William Shakespeare some time between the late summer of 1596 and 1598. The play possesses several themes, firstly that of love versus greed. The play is a demonstration of the triumph of love and friendship over greed. Secondly, mercy versus justice and the law. This refers to the courtroom scene where Shylock is pleaded with to alter his adverse decision regarding Antonio and the pound of flesh even though law states he is fully entitled to justice. The third theme is of race and racial prejudice. Even today, four centuries after the play was written, arguments still rage over the controversial anti-Semitic text that many fell should not be taught in schools. There are also accusations that the play is an attack on prejudice. To fully understand the play and the controversy surrounding it, we must research into anti-Semitism in its historical context:- Anti-Semitic views have existed for centuries. An early act of anti-Semitism occurred in England in the 13th century when Jews were accused on many trumped up charges of killing children. Massacres of Jews occurred and eventually, in 1290, the entire Jewish community was expelled from England and were not allowed to return until the mid-seventeenth century. Therefore in Shakespeares time (16th century), England was a Jew-free country. This was mirrored in some European countries, and in some cities (including Venice) Jews lived in ghettos, separate walled parts of the city which were locked at night. With this common prejudice and ignorance, Shakespeares occasional portrayal of Shylock as a stereotypical Jew (cruel, greedy etc) is perhaps understandable. During Shakespeares time, the play was considered, by many, nothing more than a comedy. This shows vividly what the attitudes of Christians towards Jews were then. Also during this time, Christians could not, by law, lend money out a t interest, however Jews could. This consequently meant that Jews made profit from Christians, which angered Christians greatly. We will write a custom essay sample on What Does Shakespeare Want His Audience To Think About the Character of Shylock specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on What Does Shakespeare Want His Audience To Think About the Character of Shylock specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on What Does Shakespeare Want His Audience To Think About the Character of Shylock specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer These anti-Semitic views, if not so strong, are still evident in this day and age with the constant fighting on the Gaza Strip between rebel Palestinians and Israeli military. Seldom does a month pass without hearing news of a car bomb exploding in Jerusalem or a little Jewish boy shot by a Hez Bolah gorilla. These racial tensions are not helped by the common jokes about Jews, for example the crude American cartoon series South Park where an eight-year-old Jewish boy, Kyal, is taunted by his friends over his religious beliefs. The character of Shylock demonstrates the stereotypical Elizabethan Jew. Hatred of Christians and the practice of usury (lending money out at interest). Although the latter is common place today, it was often frowned upon in Elizabethan times. Over the centuries, the way in which Shylock has been viewed has changed dramatically, probably more than any other Shakespearian character. In the 18th century he was considered an out-and-out villain, whereas in the 19th century people began to concentrate on the wrongs suffered by Shylock, and it even became fashionable to finish the play at the end of the trial scene. Editions in modern theatre are less extreme. In each scene of the play where Shylock makes an appearance, Shakespeare wants the audience to judge him. The opinions he tries to force on the audience vary from scene to scene, and sometimes vary inside an individual scene. We, the audience, first meet Shylock in act one scene three. In the two scenes prior to this, one and two, we learn that Bassanio, a Venetian gentleman, needs to borrow money from his good friend Antonio, the merchant of Venice, to impress a rich lady, Portia, whom he wishes to marry. However Antonios wealth is tied up in goods out at sea so they decide that they will ask Shylock for a loan. The scene opens with Bassanio and Shylock discussing the loan, and both men seem content. However, when Antonio enters the scene Shylocks mood switches. This is evident in his vicious aside:- How like a fawning publican he looks. I hate him for he is a Christian.. If I can catch him once upon the hip, I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him. In Shylocks aside, Shakespeare unveils his true hatred for Antonio and how he longs for revenge on him. In light of this the audience will view Shylock as a cruel and vindictive man. However, later in the scene, after some debating of the loan, Shylock tells of how Antonio has mistreated him in the past:- You call me misbeliever, cut-throat dog, And spit upon my Jewish gaberdine, you spat on me Wednesday last, Antonios response to these comments is:- I am as like to call thee so again, To spit on thee again, to spurn thee too. Here, Antonio makes it clear that he is glad of how he has treated Shylock, and expresses intentions to do it again. With this information of Antonios anti-Semitic actions towards Shylock in the past, how will they react to the pound of flesh bond? Even considering Antonios mistreatment of Shylock in the past, the audience are likely to accept Shylocks interpretation of the bond as a merry sport as there is nothing in the first two scenes to suggest other than a conventional comedy. Shylock indicates that the bond agreement is in the same spirit. As the curtain falls on this scene, the audience, in most cases, will agree that Shylock has good reason to hate Antonio, and that he is more a victim than a cruel man. The next scene of significance regarding Shylock is act two scene three, although Shylock himself is not present. It is a very brief scene in which Jessica, Shylocks daughter, gives a letter to Launcelot, Shylocks servant, for Lorenzo, a friend on Antonio who will elope with Jessica. Jessica gives reasons for her elopement with Lorenzo:- I am sorry thou wilt leave my father so: Our house is hell, and thou, a merry devil, .ashamed to be my fathers child. Jessica acquaints us with her unhappiness at home, and, although expresses sorrow for leaving her father, states that she dislikes his morals (manners) and is ashamed to be his daughter. Shakespeare, again, introduces reference to changing religion, when Jessica says:- If thou keep promise, I shall end this strife, Become a Christian and thy loving wife. Here, Shakespeare introduces the idea that Jessica will become happy if she becomes a Christian, raising the controversial issue of race and racial prejudice. With the combination of Jessica running-off and eloping with Lorenzo, and Jessica changing her religion, Shakespeare creates an effective feeling of isolation for Shylock. His own daughter has, not only eloped with the enemy, but become one of them by turning Christian. Even with Shylock absent from the scene, you help but feel sorry for him, as his own flesh and blood has betrayed him. Therefore, in this scene, as in act one scene three, Shylock appears more of a victim than a vengeful man. In act two scene six, Jessica, dressed as a boy, elopes with Lorenzo. Shylock, again not present is this scene, is dealt a further blow by his daughter, Jessica, who steals money and treasures from him before eloping with Lorenzo. In doing this Jessica, after just becoming a Christian, has broken two of the Ten Commandments, by failing to honour her father and stealing. Perhaps Shakespeare could be complementing the Jews, and Shylock by suggesting that Jessica has wronged because she has become a Christian. Similarly to act two scene three, Shylock has been betrayed by his own people (Jews), and more to the point his own daughter. Jessicas conflict of loyalty further emphasizes Shylocks isolation and the audience will recognise this and it will reinforce their sympathy with him. Act two scene eight, and a conversation between two of Antonios friends, Solanio and Salerio, which reveals several things. Through interpretation Solanio describes Shylocks outraged reaction to Jessica eloping with Lorenzo and stealing his money and jewels:- My daughter! O my ducats! O my daughter! Fled with a Christian! O my Christian ducats! Justice! The law! My ducats, and my daughter! As this is a reported speech, the audience cannot be sure if it is true until later in the play. Obviously is it expected that Shylock will be upset, however, the interpretation from Solanio, at times with a hint of sarcasm, suggests that he only wants his daughter to return so he can get justice, and if this is proven to be the case later in the play, the audience will start to wonder if Shylock is worthy of their sympathy. So on this scene the audience will be caught in two minds, if they do not believe that Shylock reacted in the way that Solanio suggested, then they will still see Shylock as a victim, probably more so, but if they deem Solanios interpretation true, they will start to view Shylock less as a victim and more as a villain. Shakespeare probably toys with the audience like this on purpose so that they are intrigued, and want to find out which side of Shylock will show through later in the play. This refers to the love versus greed theme, which does he care about more his daughter or his ducats? Act three scene one is a key scene involving Shylock. The deadline for the bond repayment is fast approaching and the likelihood is that Antonios ships will be lost. The scene opens with Solanio and Salerio discussing the bad fortunes of Antonios ships at sea, and then Shylock enters the scene. His first comments suggest that he is genuinely concerned about his daughter, and especially that her flight seems to be a source of entertainment for Solanio and Salerio, who draw a distinction between Shylock and his daughter, by comparing his blood to rhenish, a white wine:- Shylock:- I say my daughter is my flesh and blood. Salerio:- There is more difference between thy flesh and hers, than between jet and ivory; more between your bloods, than there is between red wine and rhenish. At this, a very early stage of the scene, the audience will begin to think that Solanios interpretation of Shylocks reaction to Jessicas elopement with Lorenzo was false, and indeed, will agree that Shylock values his daughter above his wealth. After Solanio and Salerio tease Shylock, they inform him that one of Antonios ships has sunk. For Shylock, this adds insult to injury, his daughter has eloped with a Christian, become a Christian herself, stolen much of his valuables and now Antonio will be unable to pay back the loan. This annoys Shylock:- There I have another bad match, a bankrupt. He was wont to lend money for a Christian courtesy, let him look to his bond. Here, Shylock suggests, for the first time in the play, that he will take a pound of Antonios flesh. Salerio asks him:- ..whats that good for? Shylock responds to the question viciously, and describes, in far more detail than in act one scene three, how Antonio has made him suffer in the past:- ..He hath disgraced me, and hindered me half a million, laughed at my losses, mocked my gains, scorned my nation, thwarted my bargains, cooled my friends, heated mine enemies, and whats his reason? I am a Jew. Here, Shakespeare shows the side of Shylock as a victim very strongly, and goes on to make a point that people tend to forget amidst all the racial prejudice, Jews and Christians alike are both human beings:- .Hath not a Jew eyes? Hath not a Jew hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections, passions?. ..If you prick us do we not bleed?. This heavy-hearted response portrays Shylock, and all Jews, as victims of racial prejudice, and consequently the audience will take pity on Shylock. With the audience firmly on his side, Shylock reveals his plans regarding the bond, with reasons:- If a Jew wrong a Christian, what is his humility? Revenge. If a Christian wrong a Jew, what should his sufferance be by Christian example? Why revenge. The villany you teach me I will execute, Here, Shylock argues that if he goes ahead with the bond, and takes a pound of flesh from Antonio, it will be under the influence of Christians acting violently against him. Tubal, Shylocks colleague, enters the scene, he has been in Genoa searching for Jessica. He informs Shylock that he has not found her, this throws Shylock into a rage:- Two thousand ducats in that, and other, precious, precious jewels. I would my daughter were dead at my foot, and the jewels in her ear. A sudden outburst from Shylock and the sympathy the audience had for him quickly evaporates. He has just proven Solanios interpretation correct, it now appears he values his money and jewels above his daughter. His eagerness for revenge also fuels the audience change in attitude. This already negative attitude of the audience towards Shylock, created by Shakespeare, is made worse when Tubal confirms Antonios losses at sea:- What, what, what? Ill luck, ill luck? And goes to say:- I thank God, I thank God. Shylock is overjoyed at the news of Antonios losses. Tubal then informs Shylock that Jessica spent in Genoa and the time and amount; one night fourscore ducats. Shylocks response to this is:- Thou stickst a dagger in me. I shall never see my gold again. Shylocks response further emphasises the fact that he values money over his daughter. Turning the audience further against him. Shylock then goes on to say how he will take pleasure in acting out the bond:- .Ill plague him, Ill torture him. I am glad of it. This scene began well, as regards Shylocks reputation with the audience, with the audience taking pity on him for the way Antonio has treated him in the past, and because he is subject to racial prejudice because hes a Jew. He is seen by the audience as an outcast and a victim of anti-Semitism. However, his chilling comments about his daughter, his joy over Antonios losses, and his pleasure of plotting to act out the bond turn the audience strongly against him, and his vicious, cruel, greedy and revengeful side comes to the for. Act three scene three sees Antonio make a last, and as it turns out, useless plea to Shylock. Shylock made it clear in act three scene one that he would demand the forfeit of the bond, and Antonio is unsuccessful at persuading him otherwise. There is no reason, technically speaking, why Shylock should not demand the forfeit of the bond, it is the course of law Antonio admits. However, it raises one of the themes of the play, mercy versus justice. Shylock shows that there is no mercy for Antonio in his heart:- Antonio:- I pray thee hear me speak. Shylock:- Ill have my bond. I will not hear thee speak. Ill have my bond, and therefore speak no more. For the audience, this scene is merely a reinforcement of their disliking of Shylock, as his cruel and greedy side comes through strongly again. Act four scene one, and the court room scene. Antonio is brought to trial so that Shylock may claim the forfeit of his bond. The Duke and Antonios friends plead with Shylock, and at one point Bassanio offers Shylock six thousand ducats, double the loan given to Antonio. Shylocks rejection of these pleas confirms his decision on the mercy versus justice theme, he wants justice, not an audience pleasing choice. Even though everyone in the court is against Shylock, other than himself, it looks as though he will get his way and will be granted the forfeiture of the bond. But then Portia enters the court. She is disguised as a doctor of law, Shylock has been tricked. The audience will pick up on this and initially will be glad as it could mean a cancellation of the bond, against Shylocks wishes. Portias first actions are to, like the Duke, plead with Shylock for mercy:- Then must the Jew be merciful. Shylocks response to this is:- On what compulsion must I? Tell me that. Portias responds with:- The quality of mercy is not strained, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath. It is twice blessed, Here, Portia tells Shylock that if he gives mercy, both he and Antonio will be rewarded. Later in her speech she also calls mercy an attribute to God himself. This carefully structured reasoning from Portia is not nearly enough to persuade Shylock. At this point, Shakespeare wants the audience to despise Shylock more than at any other part of the play. This is because next, Portia grants Shylock his demand of the forfeiture of the bond. Shakespeare has built up the hatred for Shylock in the audience for this moment. However, Portia demands to inspect the bond, and on doing so finds a fault in it. She realises this just before the bond forfeiture will take place, and by this time Shylock, and everyone else in the court, is convinced that the verdict is final. Portia states:- Tarry a little, there is something else. This bond doth give thee here no jot of blood, One drop of Christian blood, they land and goods Are by the laws of Venice confiscate Unto the state of Venice. Portia has told Shylock that in taking a pound of flesh, he must not shed a single drop of blood or his possessions will become the property of the state of Venice. At this point, Shakespeare will want his audience to be happy at the rejection of the bond, although he will want them to still see Shylock as a cruel person for his evil ways earlier in the play, and earlier in this scene. However, Portia deals Shylock another blow. She announces that he cannot have his money either, by law, as he rejected it openly in the court:- He hath refused it in the open court. He shall have merely justice and his bond. For the audience, this will fuel their amusement at Shylocks misfortune. Shakespeare will want them to feel that Shylock deserves the rejection of the money, again for his evil actions earlier in the play. The audience are now satisfied, but the Christians in the court are not. Portia tells Shylock:- Tarry Jew, The law hath yet another hold on you. .If it be proved against an alien That by direct, or indirect attempts He seek the life of any citizen, The party gainst the which he doth contrive Shall seize one half of his goods,. Portia tells Shylock, whom she calls an alien, that if he has attempted to kill a citizen (Antonio), the victim is entitled to half of his belongings. Finally, Antonio is asked if he can give Shylock any mercy. He says that he wants the fine of half of Shylocks goods cancelled, it appears Antonio is showing Shylock mercy, and that Shakespeare could perhaps be demonstrating that Christians have qualities that Jews do not (mercy), but he then demands something else of Shylock:- He presently become a Christian. For the first time in the scene, and at the end of Shylocks presence, Shakespeare wants the audience to feel sorry for Shylock. He has been forced to change his religion. Back in Elizabethan times religion was very strong, it was the absolute truth, and to ask someone to change their beliefs was horrific. For Shylock it may as well have been the death penalty. In a grossly unfair trial, with a fake doctor of law, and everyone else on Antonios side anyway, Shylock, in the end, comes across as a victim of racial prejudice, and this is what Shakespeare wanted to demonstrate.