America s Influence On America - 993 Words

In the beginning America was mothered by England. Writers expressed how they felt about America, who America was, and what it meant. The writers all had different points of view, but many thought America would be or should be on her own. Writers like Thomas Paine, J. Hector St. John De Crà ©vecoeur, and Thomas Jefferson thought America was strong enough to be independent. Between 1765 and 1790, the contradicting ideas of writers surrounding the definition of America built the identity of America through the argument stating that England was no longer America’s mother country. In Common Sense, Thomas Paine explained how America was dependent on England, but also showed why Americans should fight for their independence. In the process of becoming a newly founded country, America did need help from Britain financially, and Thomas Paine did address that issue; however, he also explained that America had become strong enough to branch out on its own. He proposed that America break away from England due to its ability to stand independently. Paine wrote, â€Å"Hither have they fled, not from the tender embraces of the mother country, but from the cruelty of the monster, and it is so far true of England, that the same tyranny which drove the first emigrants from home, pursues their descendants still† (324). Paine wrote Common Sense to show Americans why they should break away from England and gain their independence. He thought that America should create her own government and become theShow MoreRelatedAmerica s Influence On North America1130 Words   |à ‚  5 Pages America has evolved greatly since the late 1800s in its aspects of industrialism, expansionism, progressivism, isolationism, and globalization. The industrial era brought on a rise of big businesses and new opportunities through railroad transportation, and has since then given us a country of strong corporation and an ever expanding possibility of transportation of people and goods, alike. The country fought to expand its property lines, communications, and government influence throughoutRead MoreKhrushchev s Influence On America1543 Words   |  7 Pages From 1890-1990, America as a nation experienced constant, dynamic forces from a multiplicity of men and women. When one recalls these people, impactful Americans such as FDR, Henry Ford, Walt Disney, and many others come to mind. However, rarely does one look outside the country for people who created a lasting impact, although certain foreigners molded America during their lives. This particularly applies in the case of Nikita Khrushchev, as despite his status as the leader of another nation, heRead MoreMusic s Influence On America1467 Words   |  6 Pages Intro Music Music’s Influence on America in the Last Century This class is my first opportunity at exploring music through a broad and historical lens. Certainly I’ve learned plenty of information about how music is composed and what elements go into creating the music we have today. However, my favorite part of the class was learning about the history of American music and how it influenced culture. One could argue that culture affected music first, or vice versa. In my opinion, there areRead MoreAmerica s Influence On Television1583 Words   |  7 Pageshave had the ability to neglect both personal and political problems as well as disrupt actors’ lives, but others think that these worries are needless and entertainment is a necessity and learning about the lives of actors is harmless fun. The influence of TV shows and movies on American culture from the 1920s to 1990s was mainly negative as it had average citizens caring about trivial issues in the actors’ lives or in the shows and movies themselves. Americans began t o turn toward TV shows andRead MoreMedia s Influence On The Youth Of America1454 Words   |  6 Pagesthe youth of America. A majority of children and young adults have access to internet, television, radio, newspapers, and video games practically any time they want. The violence in media, along with the availability of media are increasing, however the most predominant form of media for children is video games. Because of this, many are concerned with the effects on the youth. The violence in video games is a cause for aggressive emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the youth of America. Media isRead MoreBarack Obama s Influence On America1319 Words   |  6 PagesObama is viewed more positively than Ronald Reagan was in 1988? A study completed to evaluate Obama s approval found that, on average, he was viewed 52.1% more positively than Ronald Reagan was at the end of his second term, but not as positively as Bill Clinton was at the end of his. Since Obama’s childhood he dreamed of becoming president one day. In an interview with VOA s Indonesian Service, Obama s third-grade teacher said in a class assignment, he wrote that he wanted to be president. The assignmentRead MoreAmerica s Influence On American Culture1414 Words   |  6 PagesPopular culture in America has visibly had an immense impact in other countries. It has created superheros such as Superman and The Avengers, invented cartoons that symbolize the childhoods of the youth such as Mickey Mouse and Scooby Doo, and globalized figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. There is no doubt that these idols represent positive images that spread influential ideas to other countries, but these positive ideas are only a small fraction of what American popular culture is. AmericanRead MoreThe Beatles Influence On America s Future1776 Words   |  8 PagesIn the early 60s, Britain was known in America for essentially the Queen and tea. However, that all changed in Fe bruary of 1964 when the Beatles touched down on American soil for the first time. Their first hop across the pond was no ordinary endeavor, as most British boy bands or performers had a hard time making it in the states. However, their venture to visit The Ed Sullivan Show ultimately changed America’s future. From that point forward, Americans began on their journey to find hope and expressionRead MoreTheodore Roosevelt s Influence On Latin America1290 Words   |  6 Pages Theodore Roosevelt was a President known for a very dynamic and progressive administration, and his foreign policy in Latin America was no exception. His policies in Latin America were beneficial for the rapidly growing United States, but left an impact on Latin America that was both positive and negative. President Roosevelt took past policies of the United States, such as the unenforced Monroe Doctrine of 1823, and amended them to have the backing of the Navy in the early 1900s. One particularRead Mo reJackie Robinson s Influence On Baseball And America1392 Words   |  6 PagesJackie Robinson’s Influence in Baseball and America Baseball has been known as America’s great sport since the 1920’s. Many people love to watch the games and create their own fantasy teams because they look up to the wide, diverse players on each team. Every team consists of males of different races and this helps bring culture into the great game. Having such a big diversity in one sport makes it easier for more people to enjoy because there is something in it for every person. However, baseball

Epic of Beowulf Essay - 740 Words

The characters Oedipus and Beowulf represent two different types of heroes. Oedipus is a tragic hero and characterized by its standards. He was an influential man of stature who had a tragic flaw. While he contributed to his own downfall, Oedipus was not entirely responsible for it. He also learned a lesson from his mistakes which ultimately creates a catharsis in the reading audience. Beowulf, on the other hand, is characterized by the standards of an epic hero. He strives for excellence and individual glory by doing heroic deeds. He has an admirable set of ethics, is great warrior, and is very loyal to his master. Beowulf is also rewarded for his deeds with fame and fortune. Although both of these men are heroes, the†¦show more content†¦Despite the awful acts committed by Oedipus, he learned a very important lesson. He discovered that fate cannot be changed. This was proven to Oedipus when he finally learned what he had done through Tiresias. Oedipus, by trying so hard to succeed in his obligation to free Thebes from the curse, caused his own undoing (Fergusson 388). This moment of realization for Oedipus causes a catharsis of emotion among the audience. They feel pity for Oedipus, who unknowingly and unwittingly committed these deeds. Beowulf is, however, a completely different type of hero. Beowulf is surrounded by fame, glamour, and fortune. He is an uncommonly great warrior and has performed many heroic feats. By the end of his life, Beowulf has beaten Brecca in a swimming race, killed Grendel, killed Grendels mother, and exchanged fatal blows with a dragon. Beowulf is an ideal epic hero. He knows to perfection the proper etiquette and he has comitatus towards his leaders and elders. As to the issue of loyalty, Anderson says that he depicts the loyalty of warrior to chieftain; of freeman, earl, and churl to their king - a whole-souled devotion to which Anglo-Saxon was ready to dedicate his life (99). Beowulf, for the most part, follows the heroic code. The only portion he violates is the call for humane treatment of a fallen foe. He deviates from this part of the code when he beheads Grendel after his mother in order to achieve revenge for the loss of oneShow MoreRelatedBeowulf : The Epic Of Beowulf1027 Words   |  5 Pages To begin, Beowulf the poem has a unknown author, Beowulf is an epic poem. In Beowulf he is challenged by the murderous monster Grendel, Grendel is eating and slaughtering Hrothgar the King of the Danes men and people, the king needs Beowulf s help in defeating Grendel, Beowulf ends up killing the monster and is now tormented by the monster s mother that is much larger, she is no match for Beowulf and he kills her as well, lastly it is Beowulf’s last battle after he has been king of Geatland forRead MoreThe Epic Of Beowulf By Beowulf2577 Words   |  11 Pagesoriginal aspects of these different religions. Due to the construction of this Beowulf, students and professors are able to study and get a true understanding of a pagans’ demeanor and how life evolves through their eyes. Throughout the epic poem Beowulf, paganism is exemp lified as this epic hero falls victim to fate while embarking on his journey through life fighting monsters and chasing after his fame. To begin with, Beowulf was composed in Old English by an anonymous writer between the sixth and seventhRead MoreThe Epic of Beowulf733 Words   |  3 PagesBeowulf is the oldest anglo-saxon poem written in English. The poem describes the heroic deeds of Beowulf in his fight against monsters. Even if the events narrated in the poem take place in Denmark, the poem was transmitted by oral language between the anglo-saxon even 200 years after its creation. Anglo-saxons did not consider themselves british, but vikings, and their heroes were always from Scandinavia. The author of Beowulf is anonymous. The original poem was written on sheep tanned leatherRead MoreBeowulf as Epic823 Words   |  4 PagesWhat makes an epic? Is Beowulf an epic? ï‚ · ï‚ · ï‚ · What is an epic poem, and how does it differ from other kinds of poetry or storytelling? How have epic poems traditionally been transmitted from generation to generation? How do tellers remember these long and complicated stories? According to Robert Harris’s Glossary of Literary Terms, he defines an epic as the following: Epic. An extended narrative poem recounting actions, travels, adventures, and heroic episodes and written in a high style (withRead More Epic of Beowulf Essay - Beowulf as Epic Hero844 Words   |  4 PagesBeowulf as Epic Hero Epic heroes usually exemplify the character traits most admired in their societies, and Beowulf is no exception.   Beowulf is set in the Anglo-Saxon society, a time when war was rampant among the many peoples trying to take over the different kingdoms of England.   In this dangerous, violent time people lived in constant peril and jeopardy.   These conditions only allowed people of great bravery to survive and men of outstanding courage were admired the populous.   TheseRead MoreThe Epic Of Beowulf As An Epic Hero1519 Words   |  7 Pageswhisked away following a journey, you have most likely read an epic. An epic by definition is â€Å"a long poem, typically one derived from ancient oral tradition, narrating the deeds and adventures of heroic or legendary figures or the history of a nation†. Every epic has a main character that undergoes the same archetypal journey as all other heroes, an epic hero. There are specific qualities one must have to be considered an epic hero. Each epic hero possesses superhuman strength, displays a strong senseRead MoreComparing Beowulf And The Epic Of Beowulf937 Words   |  4 Pagesthe Roman Empire. In the story Beowulf, his actions portray him, indeed be an epic hero. Both Christianity and Paganism are both portrayed throughout the epic Beowulf. Beowulf frequently speaks of God throughout the story, while there are also many Pagan elements that are evident throughout the story as well. In addition, It s hard to ignore the Christian and Pagan elements in Beowulf. These types of elements are what define the heroic warrior in the epic Beowulf(Vengeance the Pagan and ChristianRead MoreThe Epic Of Beowulf As An Epic Hero711 Words   |  3 Pagesthan the writer. These â€Å"epic heros† are protagonists that fulfill their potential of greatness through using their bravery, strength and humility for good. The near ancient tale of Beowulf is a classic example of an epic story that contains an epic hero. In this tale Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, has been terrorized by a beast known as Grendel. This beast has been murdering the king’s people and no one has come close to stopping this killer. A Geat warrior named Beowulf hears of the King’s predicamentRead MoreThe Epic : An Analysis Of The Epic Of Beowulf701 Words   |  3 PagesBeowulf is one of the longest surviving Anglo-Saxon poem. The epic takes place in the sixth century in what is now Denmark and Sweden. The poem opens with Hrothgar, whose successful rule is signified by a glorious mead-hall called Heorot. For 12 years, a massive man-like ogre named Grendel, a descendant of Cain, has raided Heorot and killed the kings warriors. Beowulf, a young warrior from Geatland (Sweden), comes to Hrothgar’s aid, bringing 14 of his best men with him. At a feast before the endRead MoreBeowulf : An Epic Hero930 Words   |  4 Pages The story of Beowulf shows its reader many characteristics of why this Anglo-Saxon poem is an epic. First of all, Beowulf is a warrior of epic renown by the time he formally introduces himself in the poem. Next, Beowulf is the warrior that many strive to be in life. In addition, Beowulf finds himself tackling many quests that involve dangerous beasts, or as he might call them, demons. The next quality shown by Beowulf is his bravery and honor. The reader is able to easily identify this characteristic

Chinese Cinderella Free Essays

Chinese Cinderella Essay In the book, â€Å"Chinese Cinderella,’ by Adeline Yen Mah, there are many things that happen to Adeline throughout her life. The book is based on the original Chinese Cinderella, had a similar life to Adeline. Both were maltreated by their stepmothers, both original mothers die and both gradually become more powerful and renowned throughout their lives. We will write a custom essay sample on Chinese Cinderella or any similar topic only for you Order Now The two girls were severely maltreated by their stepmothers throughout their childhood years. Chinese Cinderella, Ye Xian, was bullied by her stepmother. In the letter from Aunt Baba about the Chinese Cinderella, it said, â€Å"Her stepmother maltreated her, showing preference for her own daughter. † So what Ye Xian’s stepmother did was, she ate Ye Xian’s only friend, her goldfish, then she hid it but then Ye Xian found out. Adeline Yen Mah was also maltreated by her stepmother. Her stepmother was always biased and only treated her own children and the elder children (siblings of Adeline) well. For example, Niang never gave her any tram money but she gave it to the other children. Also, Niang and her father never cared for her when she was young. What Adeline’s parents did affected her a lot in life. Adeline would strive to achieve more throughout her time at school to show what she could do, which made her more confident to work harder and have a better future. Both of the girls’ mothers die when the girls were very young. Ye Xian’s mother died first, and then her dad passed away a short time later. So the only carer for Ye Xian was her father’s other wife, her stepmother. She had her own child and didn’t care much for her, leaving Ye Xian on her own. Adeline’s mother died when Adeline wasn’t even in kindergarten yet. But Adeline wasn’t told much about her mother, even how her mother looked. On page 3, it said, â€Å"Do you have a picture of my dead mama? † But her aunt hesitated a bit and said no. This changed Adeline’s life because this could have made her work a lot harder at school so she could get a good job and try to recover her mother’s history. The two girls were afraid and weak when they were young but proved they could do well and become powerful when they got mature. Ye Xian was a professional at being a potter. She made many pots once and traded them for a pair of golden shoes. She wore them to a festival but lost one. A warlord found out it was Ye Xian’s shoe and married her. This is how Ye Xian was successful at the end. Adeline Yen Mah also became powerful at the end after all the years of suffering. She got very good marks at school and entered a writing contest once and won first prize. Her father was proud of her for one time and let her go to university in England. She was successful and got married and became a mother, which was a very big responsibility for her. How they became powerful was a big step for the two girls because they could have courage in themselves, giving them more opportunities they had never done before and not be afraid to encounter problems. I think that Aunt Baba sent her this story because she wanted to tell Adeline she wasn’t the only person that was treated that way and wanted to give her more faith in herself. In conclusion, Chinese Cinderella and Adeline Yen Mah had pretty much the same life, but just different people in their stories. How to cite Chinese Cinderella, Essay examples Chinese Cinderella Free Essays Adeline Yen Mah’s novel Chinese Cinderella is an autobiographical novel about ‘the secret story of an unwanted daughter. ’ The novel is memorable because the story is intriguing and it is also historical as it depicts the chaos of China in the early 1940s. The novel is also remarkable for its strong depiction of characters. We will write a custom essay sample on Chinese Cinderella or any similar topic only for you Order Now The novel is based on a girl called Adeline who is neglected and unloved by her family members. There are few people who love her. Adeline’s family considers her bad luck because they believe she killed her mother. Big Sister [tells] me, ‘†¦ Mama died giving birth to you. If you had not been born, Mama would still be alive. She died because of you. You are bad luck. † (Yen Mah, 1999:3). Chinese Cinderella is the story of Adeline’s struggle for acceptance and how she overcomes the odds to prove she is worth a chance. She does this by excelling in her studies at school. She is born the fifth child to a wealthy Chinese family where her life began tragically due to her mother’s death. She then struggles to find a place where she feels she belongs. With no love given from her parents, she finds a special relationship with her grandfather and Aunt Baba, who she is later separated from. She is then sent to a convent boarding school in Tianjin where the communists enter under their leader Mao Ze-Dong. Soon she is the only child left in the convent due to communism. After many months she is collected by Aunt Reine Schilling who is Niang’s sister. â€Å"Adeline! ’ she smiled and greeted me in English. ‘†¦ Do you remember me? I am Aunt Reine Schilling, your Niang’s older sister. ’†¦ ‘Come here! Don’t be afraid! †¦ (Yen Mah, 1999:154). Adeline was then taken to Hong Kong. The characters in Chinese Cinderella are portrayed very well. Every character is three dimensional. The horror of Adeline’s life is depicted vividly in the novel. The characters in this novel vary in personalities. The aspect of the story that impacts on the reader is the terrible treatment Adeline endured. Niang, who is the stepmother, has a particular hatred towards Adeline. Her father, who is a mysterious character loves her at times and at others uncaring towards Adeline. â€Å"Is this medal for topping your class? he asked. I nodded eagerly, too excited to speak. † (Yen Mah, 1999:11). This was the only time he congratulated Adeline. Adeline has three brothers and one sister. She is attached to Aunt Baba most who is a loving character. She shows great love and affection towards Adeline unlike her other family members. Her grandfather (Ye Ye) is one of her most passionate supporters throughout the story. Her grandfather believed in her so much that Adeline said â€Å"And if I should be so lucky as to succeed one day, it [is] only be because you [believe] in me. † (Yen Mah, 1999:208). This proves the influence her grandfather had on her. Chinese Cinderella is so well written that one could envisage what China was like in the early 1940s. In the late 1930s to the early 1940s China was a strict society. People expect you to be obedient and respectful. Adeline’s life starts in Tianjin where she is born. She studies kindergarten with her older sister Lydia at St Joseph’s French Convent School. As soon as she starts school she shows her talent and skills. â€Å"What’s that hanging on your dress? † â€Å"It’s something special that Mother Agnes gave me in front of the whole class this afternoon. She called it an award. † My aunt looked thrilled. â€Å"So soon? You only started kindergarten one week ago. What is it for? † â€Å"It’s for topping my class this week†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Yen Mah, 1999:1) Adeline continues her success at school. A few months later in early 1942 Adeline’s Nai Nai dies of a massive stroke. Adeline’s family is planning to move to Shanghai due to the Japanese communists but waited six weeks till after Nai Nai’s funeral. Then Adeline, Big Sister, Big Brother and Second Brother left to Shanghai to live with Niang. On the way to Shanghai â€Å"[They] were delighted and astonished†¦ (Yen Mah, 1999:24) when they came face to face with their father. Even in Shanghai Adeline continues to succeed at school. The reader can imagine the conditions to which Adeline was subjected. One could imagine the misery of having to walk home from kindergarten. One afternoon, â€Å"Not long after Father and Niang [return] from Tianj in, Mr and Mrs Huang [come] to visit. They [bring] gifts for all seven of us children in a large cardboard box with several holes punched in the lid†¦When we [open] the gift from the Huangs, we [are] delighted to find seven little baby ducklings. (Yen Mah, 1999: 83). Adeline names her duckling PLT (Precious Little Treasure). After a few days Adeline’s father suggests testing Jackie’s, the pet dog’s obedience after dinner. He orders fourth brother to fetch a duckling and he came down with PLT. That night is PLT’s death. Fourth brother has been with Adeline during PLT’s funeral. Soon Niang decides to get Lydia married. After the wedding Niang moves Adeline into Tianjin and sends her to a convent boarding school. By December that year she is the only student left due to the communists. Aunt Jeane Schilling comes to pick her up and take her to Hong Kong where she studies secondary school. Later Adeline studies medicine in England. The language in Chinese Cinderella successfully describes Adeline’s life, particularly the hardships. Upon hearing that Adeline wins the writing competition and her father being pleased she imagines, â€Å"[Her] whole being [vibrates] with all the joy in the world. I only [have] to stretch out my hand to reach the stars. † (Yen Mah, 1999:220). This quotation means that Adeline feels as though all the joy is inside her. She had so much joy she is vibrating. She thought the joy lied in the stars, which she obtains by stretching towards the sky. The language is also very emotive because the novel describes the feelings of every character, such as the scene when Adeline’s little duckling PLT is killed by their dog. â€Å"I [am] overwhelmed with horror. My whole world [turns] desolate. † (Yen Mah, 1999: 96). Adeline says this in a very small amount of words, but it is so descriptive you can feel the emotion. This quotation means that she is suffering through too much horror and sadness to cope with. Adeline felt that the whole world was deserted, nothing but grief. Through the language the reader is able to resonate with the hardships Adeline endured. Chinese Cinderella is a novel which depicts the chaos of China in the early 1940s. It is an autobiographical novel telling the story of an unwanted daughter. The novel is memorable because the language is captivating. Chinese Cinderella is remarkable for its strong interpretation of the characters. How to cite Chinese Cinderella, Essay examples

Simile in Iliad Essay Example For Students

Simile in Iliad Essay There can be a numerous amount of reasons that an author decides to write a particular work. However, the common goal of all authors is to catch the attention of the reader and eventually make an impression of some sort on the reader. There are many different approaches that the author may take in order to achieve this common goal. One approach that can be used is the particular style of writing that the author chooses. In the epic poem by Homer called the Iliad, Homers formula to gain the attention of the reader employs the continual use of similes and metaphors. Being that the Iliad is an epic poem, it communicates to the reader the thoughts and messages that Homer wishes to convey. It is important for the reader to understand the style of writing that Homer uses in order to fully grasp the message of the work. The readers understanding is magnified if the reader clearly understands the techniques and devices used to write this particular work. One of the simplest, most practical t ools used in poetry is the use of comparison. Ordinary speech is enhanced by the use of these comparisons. There are two ways in which an author can compare two things. One is the use of simile, which is a comparison of two unlike things using the words as or like. An example of a simile in poetry is the line I wandered lonely as a cloud from William Wordsworths famous poem. Other examples of similes are fresh as a daisy, flat as a pancake, and beautiful like an angel. The other type of comparison is the metaphor, in which a comparison is made directly, without the words as or like. In other words, a metaphor is a condensed simile establishing an immediate relationship between two things. An example of a metaphor is the phrase drowning in sorrow. In the Iliad, Homer extensively uses the device of simile in portraying many aspects of the text. Homer does not use the metaphor extensively in his work, and when he does use it, the comparisons are usually limited to simple phrases such as winged words (1.201). The main crux of comparisons in the Iliad is the use of similes in which Homer uses in two different ways. Homer uses short similes in which he compares two entities using one simple phrase. There are numerous examples of this found in the Iliad. One example can be found in Book 1 when Homer describes how Achilleus called upon his mother for help from Zeus and how she came out from the sea. Homer writes, and lightly she emerged like a mist from the gray water (359). Another example can be found when Homer speaks of the robe that Hekabe was going to give Athene as a gift, he says the robe shone like a star (6.295). More prevalent however, are the extended similes that Homer has so brilliantly presented in this poem. There are several examples of extended similes that can be noted. One example can be found in Book 6 in the scene that characterizes the meeting between Diomedes and Glaukos. After Diomedes asks Glaukos about his background, Glaukos replies:As is the generation of leaves, so is that of humanity. The wind scatters the leaves on the ground, but the live timber burgeons with leaves again in the season of spring returning. So one generation of men will grow while another dies (146). Another example of an extended simile is found in Book 16 as Achilleus snaps at Patroklos for crying because of the war. Achilleus compares Patroklos to a crying girl running after her mother. He says:Why then are you crying like some poor girl, Patroklos, who runs after her mother andbegs to be picked up and carried, and clings to her dress, and holds her back when shetries to hurry, and gazes tearfully into her face, until she is picked up. You are like one, such a Patroklos, dropping these soft tears. (6)Homer utilizes metaphors as well as similes to add texture to the Iliad. Most often, the metaphors are simple phrases used to describe a person or object. Examples of metaphors from the Iliad are when Homer calls Achilleus shepherd of the people (16.2) and in Book 2, when Homer discusses Agamemnons dream. Homer describes the descent of the Dream to Agamemnon. Homer writes, He found him sleeping within his shelter in a cloud of immortal slumber (18). .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 , .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .postImageUrl , .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 , .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:hover , .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:visited , .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:active { border:0!important; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 { 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; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:active , .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .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; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2 .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u79ef53ca95c443a42badebc5588c8db2:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Alexander the Great4 EssayHomers similes and metaphors are generally used as descriptions. The descriptions can be divided into different groups such as descriptions of people, descriptions of peoples language, and descriptions of war and battle. Homers descriptions of people, particularly the warriors are found throughout the Iliad. In Book 2, Homer describes the Achaian army, saying that it was as if they were young children or widowed women they cry out and complain to each other about going homeward (289). Book 3 says, Atreides ranged like a wild beast (448) and in Book 6, Hektors son is described as beautiful as a shining star (401). Achilleus in particular is compare d to many things in the Iliad. In Book 16 Achilleus is called shepherd of the people (2). In Book 22, he is described in great detail in comparison with many things. He is compared to a racehorse who is in tearing speed (22), he is compared to a star which comes on in the autumn and whose conspicuous brightness far outshines the stars that are numbered in the nights darkening (26). He is also compared to a snake who waits for a man by his hole, in the mountains, glutted with evil poisons (93). Homer uses these comparisons to greatly emphasize the greatness and strength of Achilleus. Without these similes, our belief and understanding of Achilleus strength would be severely limited. If Homer told us at the beginning that Achilleus was the greatest of all warriors and did not add these comparisons throughout the poem, the strength would not seem as great as it seems with these comparisons. With these comparisons, Achilleus seems more like a god than a human, and because he is so honor ed by others in the poem for his strength, the reader will indefinitely honor him and be awed by him as well. The comparisons act not only as reminders, but also as reinforcers of the greatness of Achilleus. Descriptions of peoples speech also occur as similes and metaphors in the Iliad. The speech that people use to put down other people usually contains similes and metaphors. In Book 3, Alexandros tells Hektor your heart is weariless, like an axe-blade driven by a mans strength through the timber (60). In Book 22, Hektor calls Achilleus a dog (345) and says that Achilleus has a heart of iron (357). One of the main focuses of Homers descriptive language is his concentration on warriors, battle and war. An abundant amount of similes and metaphors can be found in Homers descriptions. In Book 2 Homer describes the Achaian army as:swarms of clustering bees that issue forever in fresh bursts from the hallow in the stone, and hang like a bunch of grapes as they hover beneath the flowers in springtimefluttering in swarms together this way and that way (87). In Book 3, the Trojans are said to come on with clamour and shouting like wildfowl (2), and the Achaians are described as:on the peaks of mountains the south wind scatters the thick mist, no friend to the shepherd, but better than night for the robber, and a man can see before him only as far as a stone cast, so beneath their feet the dust drove up in a stormcloud of menmarching, who made their way through the plain in great speed (10). The warriors in particular are described through comparison. The Trojan warriors are compared to a black cloud (16.65) while the Achaian warriors are said to be like wolves who tear flesh raw (16.155). Homers technique in employing the similes and metaphors is fairly simple; they are everywhere. Without the similes, the work would be a plain and unreadable record of the Trojan War. It would not be a work of poetry, but rather a historical account of an event that took place. Without the similes and metaphors, the reader would not associate as closely with the characters, and there would be not as clear an understanding as there is with the similes and metaphors. The reason that the text becomes more interesting through the use of simile and metaphor is because they allow for the reader to associate better with the plot. The similes and metaphor bring the characters and the battles to life. The reader becomes familiarized with Homers style of writing, and will become more comfortable not only with the plot, but with the characters as well. This familiarity might thus let the reader to even take sides with certain characters, causing a kind of emotional connection to the characters as well as the text on a whole. .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 , .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .postImageUrl , .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 , .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:hover , .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:visited , .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:active { border:0!important; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 { 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; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:active , .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .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; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679 .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u59b4d67ad27b72c31e03e182bf8f9679:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Saving Private Ryan Analysis EssayHomers brilliant use of language is what makes the Iliad such an ingenious work of literature. The reader becomes absorbed into the language that Homer employs, and what may have been difficult to read in the beginning becomes second nature to the reader after a while. The similes and metaphors add texture and depth to the characters as well as the plot. It is unquestionable that these similes and metaphors gain the interest of the readers and hopefully make an impression on them, thus achieving the ultimate goal of the author, Homer. Bibliography: