"Twelfth Night" was a fun read and much easier to comprehend than "Fairy Queen." I found all of the "gender-bending" very interesting and relevant to what we see today. Transexuality, cross-dressing, homosexuality, etc. apparently have been around for a long time. Shakespeare though, handles all these topics in a somewhat light-hearted, comedic way. It lacks the graphic realism that we see today in stories with these themes, which is a good thing, (the lack thereof, that is). I would love to see this play enacted sometime, (or view the movie).
"Twelfth Night" reminds me of a movie from the 1980's, "Tootsie" with Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange. Dustin Hoffman's character is an unemployed actor who dresses up as woman to land a job on a soap opera. He falls in love with Jessica Lange's character, (also an actress on the show), and she finds herself falling in love with a "woman", causing her a great deal of distress. Olivia in Twelfth Night does not seem to be the least bit distressed that she was in love with a woman. I guess this is because she always thought Cesario was a man and then she moved right on over to Sebastian.
Anyway, "Tootsie" is also a very funny comedy, full of engaging characters and sub-plots; including some serious moments. I think William Shakespeare would have enjoyed this film; heck, he probably would have written it. Rent it sometime, it will make you laugh.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Monday, March 17, 2008
Topic and Bibliography
I have decided to do my research on St. Thomas More. As I said earlier while we were reading "Utopia", I have always been interested in Thomas More and his role in the history of the Catholic Church.
1. Stevens, Clifford. The One Year Book of Saints. Huntington, IN: Our Sunday Visitor Publishing, 1989.
This is one of the first biographies that I read about Thomas More and is a very brief summing up of his life.
His feast day, (the day he died), is June 22nd. The Catholic Church canonized him in 1935, 400 years after his death.
He was born in 1477 and as a young boy, was recognized as having a great intellect and being of fine character.
2. Bausch, William. The Pilgrim Church. Mystic, CT: Twenty-Third Publications, 1989.
In 1534, Henry VIII transferred all rights from the pope to himself and made Parliament pass the "Act of Supremacy", which declared him the supreme head of the Church in England. Thomas More refused to submit to this act and so was beheaded.
3. "Thomas More. "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_More
St. Thomas More shares his feast day, (June 22nd), with St. John Fisher, the Catholic Bishop who was beheaded the same day. Fisher was the only bishop to remain loyal to the Pope at that time. "More coined the word 'utopia' a name he gave to an ideal, imaginary island nation whose political system he described in a book published in 1516."
More was a good father, devoted to his children and felt that his three daughters should receive an education equal to his son; "declaring women were just as intelligent as men." This was not the typical way of thinking for the day.
4. Utopia (book). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utopia_(book)
This website has everything I need to know about "Utopia"; plot, discourse, and the meaning. As well as how it was received at the time it was written and how we can interpret the work today.
5. Ince, Elizabeth M. St. Thomas More of London. San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 2003.
The year was 1490, and Thomas More left his school, St. Anthony's at the age of 12 to study under the Archbishop of Canterbury. His father, Sir John More was a highly respected lawyer at the time. Thomas had a younger brother and 2 younger sisters, his mother died when he was younger. A woman named, Mother Maude took care of the More children and they dearly loved her.
1. Stevens, Clifford. The One Year Book of Saints. Huntington, IN: Our Sunday Visitor Publishing, 1989.
This is one of the first biographies that I read about Thomas More and is a very brief summing up of his life.
His feast day, (the day he died), is June 22nd. The Catholic Church canonized him in 1935, 400 years after his death.
He was born in 1477 and as a young boy, was recognized as having a great intellect and being of fine character.
2. Bausch, William. The Pilgrim Church. Mystic, CT: Twenty-Third Publications, 1989.
In 1534, Henry VIII transferred all rights from the pope to himself and made Parliament pass the "Act of Supremacy", which declared him the supreme head of the Church in England. Thomas More refused to submit to this act and so was beheaded.
3. "Thomas More. "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_More
St. Thomas More shares his feast day, (June 22nd), with St. John Fisher, the Catholic Bishop who was beheaded the same day. Fisher was the only bishop to remain loyal to the Pope at that time. "More coined the word 'utopia' a name he gave to an ideal, imaginary island nation whose political system he described in a book published in 1516."
More was a good father, devoted to his children and felt that his three daughters should receive an education equal to his son; "declaring women were just as intelligent as men." This was not the typical way of thinking for the day.
4. Utopia (book). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utopia_(book)
This website has everything I need to know about "Utopia"; plot, discourse, and the meaning. As well as how it was received at the time it was written and how we can interpret the work today.
5. Ince, Elizabeth M. St. Thomas More of London. San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 2003.
The year was 1490, and Thomas More left his school, St. Anthony's at the age of 12 to study under the Archbishop of Canterbury. His father, Sir John More was a highly respected lawyer at the time. Thomas had a younger brother and 2 younger sisters, his mother died when he was younger. A woman named, Mother Maude took care of the More children and they dearly loved her.
Friday, March 7, 2008
More on the Fairy Queen
On my last blog, I cited a Catholic website that interpreted scripture to prove that the Catholic Church is not the "Whore". I'm not going to discuss it anymore, except to say: ".. .Revelation 18:20 and 18:24 prove that the Whore had to be a creature of the first century, which, in the Fundamentalist view, the Catholic Church was not. Thus, on their own view, their identification of the Catholic Church with the Whore is completely impossible! Only ancient, pagan Rome or apostate Jerusalem could possibly be the Whore." "http://www.catholic.com/library/Whore_of_Babylon.asp
I realize the writers are referring to the Fundamentalist Christian interpretation and not the Anglican Church of Renaissance England. However, it is still worthy of note. If you, the reader, are interested in reading the entire text of the article, access the aforementioned website.
I'm trying to think of some positive things to say about this piece of literature and I am having a
a difficult time because every Fairy Tale I ever loved somehow seems tainted. Thank goodness for C.S. Lewis.
Anyway, Edmund Spenser was an extremely talented writer and tells a heck of a fascinating story. Enough about FQ.
I realize the writers are referring to the Fundamentalist Christian interpretation and not the Anglican Church of Renaissance England. However, it is still worthy of note. If you, the reader, are interested in reading the entire text of the article, access the aforementioned website.
I'm trying to think of some positive things to say about this piece of literature and I am having a
a difficult time because every Fairy Tale I ever loved somehow seems tainted. Thank goodness for C.S. Lewis.
Anyway, Edmund Spenser was an extremely talented writer and tells a heck of a fascinating story. Enough about FQ.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Fairy Queen
When I began reading this story I enjoyed it, in fact I was reading it to my children. I soon realized that the Fairy Queen was not your typical "fairy tale". This was not a story to be read to children, and now that I know the purpose of this allegory, I would prefer not to read it. But alas, I have to.
One just doesn't realize how much the English hated, (hates?) the Catholic Church until you take an English Literature class, (it's really bad). Key phrase; "Edmund Spenser was an avid Nationalist", (Which really means "Catholic Hater").
Maybe this is too simplistic and I'm sure I have said it before; but how can the Catholic Church be the villain in any sense other than She would not allow Henry VIII to divorce? Essentially, the entire core of the Church of England is about a nutty, (an understatement), monarch who threw a major "hissy" fit because he could not get what he wanted, and the Catholic Church has been vilified ever since, (in England at least), for this reason.
Queen Mary was for Mommy and Queen Elizabeth was for Daddy, and Daddy/Elizabeth won. In my opinion, this is not something to be proud of, this history of religion in England. The Reformation according to Martin Luther is another story altogether.
Two things are particularly disturbing to me: Spenser's symbolic references to everything in the story that is evil, being the Catholic Church, i.e., Error's vomiting the "papers" containing the doctrines and dogma of the Church. The second being his belief that the "Whore of Babylon" is also the Catholic Church.
The Whore of Babylon is NOT the Catholic Church. Suffice it to say , the Catholic Church is the one true Church, the Bride of Christ. "So why is the Bride maligned as the Whore? Jesus himself answered the question: "If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household" (Matt. 10:25). "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world . . . the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you" (John 15:18–20). http://www.catholic.com/library/whore_of_babylon.asp
"There is irrefutable evidence in Revelation 17–18 (the chapters Fundamentalists love to quote against the Catholic Church) that proves that it is impossible for the Catholic Church to be the Whore." http://www.catholic.com/library/whore_of_babylon.asp
More about this in my next blog.
One just doesn't realize how much the English hated, (hates?) the Catholic Church until you take an English Literature class, (it's really bad). Key phrase; "Edmund Spenser was an avid Nationalist", (Which really means "Catholic Hater").
Maybe this is too simplistic and I'm sure I have said it before; but how can the Catholic Church be the villain in any sense other than She would not allow Henry VIII to divorce? Essentially, the entire core of the Church of England is about a nutty, (an understatement), monarch who threw a major "hissy" fit because he could not get what he wanted, and the Catholic Church has been vilified ever since, (in England at least), for this reason.
Queen Mary was for Mommy and Queen Elizabeth was for Daddy, and Daddy/Elizabeth won. In my opinion, this is not something to be proud of, this history of religion in England. The Reformation according to Martin Luther is another story altogether.
Two things are particularly disturbing to me: Spenser's symbolic references to everything in the story that is evil, being the Catholic Church, i.e., Error's vomiting the "papers" containing the doctrines and dogma of the Church. The second being his belief that the "Whore of Babylon" is also the Catholic Church.
The Whore of Babylon is NOT the Catholic Church. Suffice it to say , the Catholic Church is the one true Church, the Bride of Christ. "So why is the Bride maligned as the Whore? Jesus himself answered the question: "If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household" (Matt. 10:25). "If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world . . . the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you" (John 15:18–20). http://www.catholic.com/library/whore_of_babylon.asp
"There is irrefutable evidence in Revelation 17–18 (the chapters Fundamentalists love to quote against the Catholic Church) that proves that it is impossible for the Catholic Church to be the Whore." http://www.catholic.com/library/whore_of_babylon.asp
More about this in my next blog.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
On Henry and Anne...
In reading Henry VIII's love letters to Anne Boleyn, my first impression was that he is obsessed with her. It is difficult to know how she really felt about him because we cannot read the letters that she had written; what was he responding to, what was she saying to him? In every letter, he refers to her as his mistress, declares his undying love, and tells her he cannot wait to be with her.
An interesting note; a person learned in English history recently told me that the depictions of Anne Boleyn as a beautiful and sexy woman are completely false. Apparently, she was exceedingly ugly.
I do detect some insecurity and anxiety in his words. For example, "...for by absence we are kept a distance from one another, and yet it retains its fervour, at least on my side; I hope the like on yours..." and then, "...but for the firm hope I have of your unchangeable affection for me." Henry was obviously unsure. He then sends her a picture of himself "set in bracelets".
I think that there is a good chance that she really did not want him as much as her wanted her, at least at first. He was not one to be trusted as he was married, and rumor has it that her sister had just recently given birth to his son, Henry. It is terribly ironic that the first woman to give him a son, (Mary Boleyn), was not his wife and all those women had to have their heads chopped and be replaced by the next woman so that he could sire an heir.
In his second letter Henry writes, "I am sure that I have since never done anything to offend you, and it seems a very poor return for the great love which I bear you to keep me at a distance." I think she later was keeping him at a distance because she was waiting for him to obtain an annulment. That process took seven years and completely changed the world of Christianity; it caused the "irrevocable breach" of England from the Catholic Church.
The second thing that struck me was that after reading the love letters, it is hard to imagine that he would have her executed. The story is a very sad one and I found the following very interesting:
"This account of Anne Boleyn's speech at her execution. The execution took place on 19 May 1536 at 8 o'clock in the morning. It was the first public execution of an English queen.
I find the whole thing very creepy.
An interesting note; a person learned in English history recently told me that the depictions of Anne Boleyn as a beautiful and sexy woman are completely false. Apparently, she was exceedingly ugly.
I do detect some insecurity and anxiety in his words. For example, "...for by absence we are kept a distance from one another, and yet it retains its fervour, at least on my side; I hope the like on yours..." and then, "...but for the firm hope I have of your unchangeable affection for me." Henry was obviously unsure. He then sends her a picture of himself "set in bracelets".
I think that there is a good chance that she really did not want him as much as her wanted her, at least at first. He was not one to be trusted as he was married, and rumor has it that her sister had just recently given birth to his son, Henry. It is terribly ironic that the first woman to give him a son, (Mary Boleyn), was not his wife and all those women had to have their heads chopped and be replaced by the next woman so that he could sire an heir.
In his second letter Henry writes, "I am sure that I have since never done anything to offend you, and it seems a very poor return for the great love which I bear you to keep me at a distance." I think she later was keeping him at a distance because she was waiting for him to obtain an annulment. That process took seven years and completely changed the world of Christianity; it caused the "irrevocable breach" of England from the Catholic Church.
The second thing that struck me was that after reading the love letters, it is hard to imagine that he would have her executed. The story is a very sad one and I found the following very interesting:
"This account of Anne Boleyn's speech at her execution. The execution took place on 19 May 1536 at 8 o'clock in the morning. It was the first public execution of an English queen.
'Good Christian people, I am come hither to die, for according to the law, and by the law I am judged to die, and therefore I will speak nothing against it. I am come hither to accuse no man, nor to speak anything of that, whereof I am accused and condemned to die, but I pray God save the king and send him long to reign over you, for a gentler nor a more merciful prince was there never: and to me he was ever a good, a gentle and sovereign lord. And if any person will meddle of my cause, I require them to judge the best. And thus I take my leave of the world and of you all, and I heartily desire you all to pray for me. O Lord have mercy on me, to God I commend my soul.'
After being blindfolded and kneeling at the block, she repeated several times:
'To Jesus Christ I commend my soul; Lord Jesu receive my soul.' "1
I find the whole thing very creepy.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
A Sonnet
I don't think I have written a sonnet since high school and I really didn't think I could, but once I started writing, the words were flowing. So here goes:
How a Child Doth Break His Mother’s Heart
Oh how a child doth break his mother’s heart,
I pray if he could only be aware,
That the thoughtless words that flow from thee art,
The cruelest kind that bring pain to bear.
My Mother, says he, of you we have no need,
From love you do not act nor give of self,
But of your judgment you only pay heed;
As over concerned you are with our health.
Lo, we were very well before you came
No better or worse because you are here
My son, your words they sting, Have you no shame?
I bless your children and hold them so dear.
How can I express this heartbreaking pain?
To do so I can predict of no gain.
How a Child Doth Break His Mother’s Heart
Oh how a child doth break his mother’s heart,
I pray if he could only be aware,
That the thoughtless words that flow from thee art,
The cruelest kind that bring pain to bear.
My Mother, says he, of you we have no need,
From love you do not act nor give of self,
But of your judgment you only pay heed;
As over concerned you are with our health.
Lo, we were very well before you came
No better or worse because you are here
My son, your words they sting, Have you no shame?
I bless your children and hold them so dear.
How can I express this heartbreaking pain?
To do so I can predict of no gain.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Courtier continued...
I really don't have anything else to say about The Book of the Courtier. I had written several paragraphs and somehow lost them, so I think I will move onto Henry's letters to Anne Boleyn.
Friday, February 1, 2008
The Courtier
A large topic in contemporary literature, courtiers were often regarded as marked by insincerity, skill at flattery and intrigue, ambition and lack of regard for the national interest. More positive aspects of the stereotype would include the role played by the court in the development of politeness - a concept in origin to close to that of the "politician" - and the arts.
In modern English, the term is often used metaphorically for contemporary political favourites or hangers-on. (http://www.reference.com/search?q=courtier)
The perfect courtier is to have an excellent mind, proper manners and manner of speaking, a good voice for speaking as well as singing, and a strong athletic physique.
The courtier should know how to draw, paint, and be knowledgeable in classical antiquity. All these skills and many more are executed with a certain "sprezzatura" or nonchalance. Why the perfect courtier? We shall see.
In modern English, the term is often used metaphorically for contemporary political favourites or hangers-on. (http://www.reference.com/search?q=courtier)
The perfect courtier is to have an excellent mind, proper manners and manner of speaking, a good voice for speaking as well as singing, and a strong athletic physique.
The courtier should know how to draw, paint, and be knowledgeable in classical antiquity. All these skills and many more are executed with a certain "sprezzatura" or nonchalance. Why the perfect courtier? We shall see.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Final thoughts on Book 2...
"Children stood by in absolute silence" during meals. That would be miraculous, but also unnatural and unrealistic as most of Utopia is. Also, Utopians cannot leave their district without permission and are "severely" punished if they try to do so. I would call this oppression, not freedom or equality.
"Their religious principles are of this nature: that the soul of man is immortal, and by God's goodness born for happiness; after this life, rewards are appointed for our virtues and good deeds, punishments for our sins." A form of Christianity.
OK, now it gets weird!
Thomas More was a devout Catholic, so this next passage was a little shocking. "But if the disease is not only incurable, but excruciatingly and continually painful, then the priests and public officials come and urge the invalid not to endure such agony any longer. They remind him that he is now unfit for any of life's duties. a burden to himself and to others; he has really outlived his own death...life is simply torture and the world a mere prison cell...death puts an end not to pleasure, but to agony. Those who have been persuaded by these arguments either starve themselves to death or take a potion which puts them painlessly to sleep..." This argument is used by proponents of euthanasia and assisted suicide; of which the Catholic Church teaches are mortal sins, (deserving of Hell). One must respect life, and not end it, from conception to natural death. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2270, 2277, 2280). Again, frighteningly relevant to the 21st century.
Weird item #2: Utopians follow a custom which is indeed "foolish and absurd in the extreme", not to mention pretty shallow; "the bride-to-be is shown naked to the groom by a responsible and respectable matron: and, similarly, some respectable man presents the groom naked to his future bride." He then compares this practice to inspecting a horse and uncovering a "hidden sore". He warns against hating one's spouse for the rest of one's life based on surprises that may be hidden by clothing. This reminds me of something a 14 or 15 year-old person would say, thinking he or she was being very philosophical and articulate.
One last observation: More states that Utopia does not need lawyers, (whom he criticizes extensively) - and he is a lawyer in "real" life.
This book, in my opinion, is a political discourse about everything that was wrong with life in England, (and human nature), as Thomas More knew it. This "pie-in-the-sky" tale, (unrealistic as it is), is simply how he would like for life to be if he were in charge.
The End
"Their religious principles are of this nature: that the soul of man is immortal, and by God's goodness born for happiness; after this life, rewards are appointed for our virtues and good deeds, punishments for our sins." A form of Christianity.
OK, now it gets weird!
Thomas More was a devout Catholic, so this next passage was a little shocking. "But if the disease is not only incurable, but excruciatingly and continually painful, then the priests and public officials come and urge the invalid not to endure such agony any longer. They remind him that he is now unfit for any of life's duties. a burden to himself and to others; he has really outlived his own death...life is simply torture and the world a mere prison cell...death puts an end not to pleasure, but to agony. Those who have been persuaded by these arguments either starve themselves to death or take a potion which puts them painlessly to sleep..." This argument is used by proponents of euthanasia and assisted suicide; of which the Catholic Church teaches are mortal sins, (deserving of Hell). One must respect life, and not end it, from conception to natural death. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2270, 2277, 2280). Again, frighteningly relevant to the 21st century.
Weird item #2: Utopians follow a custom which is indeed "foolish and absurd in the extreme", not to mention pretty shallow; "the bride-to-be is shown naked to the groom by a responsible and respectable matron: and, similarly, some respectable man presents the groom naked to his future bride." He then compares this practice to inspecting a horse and uncovering a "hidden sore". He warns against hating one's spouse for the rest of one's life based on surprises that may be hidden by clothing. This reminds me of something a 14 or 15 year-old person would say, thinking he or she was being very philosophical and articulate.
One last observation: More states that Utopia does not need lawyers, (whom he criticizes extensively) - and he is a lawyer in "real" life.
This book, in my opinion, is a political discourse about everything that was wrong with life in England, (and human nature), as Thomas More knew it. This "pie-in-the-sky" tale, (unrealistic as it is), is simply how he would like for life to be if he were in charge.
The End
Monday, January 28, 2008
Book 2 continued...
At first, I thought I would like to live in Utopia, (the older I get, the better it sounds), but now I'm not so sure. Everything is so regimented, that can be good or bad. I like the idea of a six hour work day; the rest of the hours in a day being productive, not idle.
"...hardly any of the women..., work." Hmmm. I agree with the footnote writer, this is a strange statement. What does More mean by "work"?
"...these sturdy and lusty beggars, who go about feigning some disease as an excuse for their idleness." Reminds one of current social issues in this country.
The following are two of the most appealing things about Utopia; no fear of hunger, and large public hospitals. In Utopia, "There is plenty of everything...” greed and avarice do not exist. There is more than enough food for everyone; no one takes more than they need. There is always a surplus to share with other, less fortunate countries.
Each city in Utopia has four large public hospitals so that there is plenty of room for the sick. "The hospitals are well-ordered and supplied with everything needed to cure the patients, who are nursed with tender and watchful care. Highly skilled physicians are in constant attendance." If only this could true. This is perfect socialized medicine, truly a fantasy.
"...hardly any of the women..., work." Hmmm. I agree with the footnote writer, this is a strange statement. What does More mean by "work"?
"...these sturdy and lusty beggars, who go about feigning some disease as an excuse for their idleness." Reminds one of current social issues in this country.
The following are two of the most appealing things about Utopia; no fear of hunger, and large public hospitals. In Utopia, "There is plenty of everything...” greed and avarice do not exist. There is more than enough food for everyone; no one takes more than they need. There is always a surplus to share with other, less fortunate countries.
Each city in Utopia has four large public hospitals so that there is plenty of room for the sick. "The hospitals are well-ordered and supplied with everything needed to cure the patients, who are nursed with tender and watchful care. Highly skilled physicians are in constant attendance." If only this could true. This is perfect socialized medicine, truly a fantasy.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Thoughts on "Utopia" 2
I have enjoyed reading this book; it is completely not what I thought it would be. I thought it would be boring, above my ability to understand.
Again, as I said in my last blog, so many elements are relevant to us, (society), today.
All men, women, and children learn to farm. Children learn the theory of Agriculture in school and take "field trips" as children do today. I think we all should learn how to garden, at the very least, as most any kind of major crisis could lead to a food shortage. Most of us would not know what to do if we couldn't go to the grocery store.
Each person also learns a trade; wool and linen-making, masonry, metal work, carpentry, etc... Women, (aka the "weaker sex"), perform lighter tasks and men the heavier. Not a very popular concept today, but OK with me.
All the towns are just like Amaurot, the one described. Each house has a door to the street in front and a door to the garden in the back. Sounds like early suburbia.
I'm glad they have glass windows.
Again, as I said in my last blog, so many elements are relevant to us, (society), today.
All men, women, and children learn to farm. Children learn the theory of Agriculture in school and take "field trips" as children do today. I think we all should learn how to garden, at the very least, as most any kind of major crisis could lead to a food shortage. Most of us would not know what to do if we couldn't go to the grocery store.
Each person also learns a trade; wool and linen-making, masonry, metal work, carpentry, etc... Women, (aka the "weaker sex"), perform lighter tasks and men the heavier. Not a very popular concept today, but OK with me.
All the towns are just like Amaurot, the one described. Each house has a door to the street in front and a door to the garden in the back. Sounds like early suburbia.
I'm glad they have glass windows.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Thoughts on "Utopia"
Thoughts on "Utopia"
I am enjoying the short biography of Sir Thomas More at the beginning of the book. I have always been very interested in him and have wanted to learn more about him; here is my chance. I would like to know exactly why 16th century Catholic bishops, "place 'Utopia' on their list of prohibited books." I am Catholic and have always been very interested in the history of my Church, especially during the Renaissance period, as there were so many key events and changes.
More's letter to Peter Giles: back to that later.
The opening sentence about Henry VIII; "invincible king, a prince adorned with royal virtues...” seems to be a purposeful statement flattering Henry since the rest of the story describes everything that is wrong with the European monarchies and the monarchs themselves.
Thomas More travels to Flanders on business for the king. He is there to discuss and settle with Charles of Castille. Their meeting is ended because there is no agreement made. More travels to Antwerp to see his friend, Peter Giles. He is the kind of friend we all want and want to be; kind, patient, affectionate, virtuous, wise, witty, cultured, courteous and trustworthy. (Wow)
Peter introduces More to his friend and seasoned traveler; Raphael Hythloday. Raphael is a philosopher who, "knows Latin and is learned in Greek." He knows much about "unknown people and lands," having accompanied Amerigo Vespucci on at least three voyages. On the last voyage, he is purposely marooned with twenty-four others, left at a fort and, "more anxious to pursue his travels than afraid of death."
Raphael claims to have introduced the compass to the natives there, called "Utopians." Formerly timid about traveling, they are now completely confident, (overconfident, even), and unafraid due to the use of the compass. This passage is a little corny. Is the compass symbolic? Is Raphael God's messenger?
"The difference between service and servitude is one syllable." Sounds so modern, cool. Raphael desires neither wealth nor power and has given away all of his possessions.
"Most princes apply themselves to the arts of war, in which I have neither ability nor interest, instead of to the good arts of peace." This is in part his argument against counseling to kings as More suggests he should.
Raphael begins to relate a discussion between Cardinal John Morton, a lawyer, a friar, and himself. (Interesting that Morton was so impressed with More as a child, that he arranged for his Oxford education). It begins with the execution of simple thieves, unfair and ineffective, says Raphael. Instead of punishing theft so severely, help all men to be able to earn a living.
The production of wool is another reason for thievery, "every acre enclosed for pasture.” (for sheep). Feudal tenants are dismissed with no place to go; whole families.
Monopoly and oligopoly - surprised to see these terms in use so long ago.
"Hideous poverty exists side by side with wanton luxury."
"It seems to me, most kind and reverent father", says Raphael, "that it is altogether unjust to take someone's life for taking money. Nothing in the world that fortune can bestow is equal in value to human life."... "But then, what prevents men from making other laws in the same way-perhaps even laws legalizing rape, adultery, perjury?" How about abortion? This argument is so relevant to what is going on in the world today. The disregard for human life, (especially in this country), is leading to all kinds of treachery.
How can England's "new law" of Christ be harsher and more severe that the law of Moses where death was never a penalty for any crime, certainly not theft.
Persian Ploylerites:
Criminals work constantly, make restitution, atone for sins, ("see the necessity of being honest"), slaves, have a chopped ear for ID, can be whipped, wear a special badge, must stay in own district, carry no money or weapons, "accept punishment in the spirit of obedience" and possibly earn freedom. Or try to escape and die for doing so. Is this the labor camp?
I love reading this book.
More says to Raphael, basically he is now convinced that, "There is no place for philosophy in the council of kings." But, You can have some positive impact and you have the obligation to try so that, "What you cannot turn to good, you may at least make as little bad as possible."
Utopia sounds like Communism with the presence of God.
Luckily, a ship of Romans and Egyptians wrecked on Utopia and they never left. They taught the Utopians many important things they may not have otherwise figured out. This passage made me laugh.
I like this quote, "Only rich men can afford to seek positions which ought to be held by the wise."
I am enjoying the short biography of Sir Thomas More at the beginning of the book. I have always been very interested in him and have wanted to learn more about him; here is my chance. I would like to know exactly why 16th century Catholic bishops, "place 'Utopia' on their list of prohibited books." I am Catholic and have always been very interested in the history of my Church, especially during the Renaissance period, as there were so many key events and changes.
More's letter to Peter Giles: back to that later.
The opening sentence about Henry VIII; "invincible king, a prince adorned with royal virtues...” seems to be a purposeful statement flattering Henry since the rest of the story describes everything that is wrong with the European monarchies and the monarchs themselves.
Thomas More travels to Flanders on business for the king. He is there to discuss and settle with Charles of Castille. Their meeting is ended because there is no agreement made. More travels to Antwerp to see his friend, Peter Giles. He is the kind of friend we all want and want to be; kind, patient, affectionate, virtuous, wise, witty, cultured, courteous and trustworthy. (Wow)
Peter introduces More to his friend and seasoned traveler; Raphael Hythloday. Raphael is a philosopher who, "knows Latin and is learned in Greek." He knows much about "unknown people and lands," having accompanied Amerigo Vespucci on at least three voyages. On the last voyage, he is purposely marooned with twenty-four others, left at a fort and, "more anxious to pursue his travels than afraid of death."
Raphael claims to have introduced the compass to the natives there, called "Utopians." Formerly timid about traveling, they are now completely confident, (overconfident, even), and unafraid due to the use of the compass. This passage is a little corny. Is the compass symbolic? Is Raphael God's messenger?
"The difference between service and servitude is one syllable." Sounds so modern, cool. Raphael desires neither wealth nor power and has given away all of his possessions.
"Most princes apply themselves to the arts of war, in which I have neither ability nor interest, instead of to the good arts of peace." This is in part his argument against counseling to kings as More suggests he should.
Raphael begins to relate a discussion between Cardinal John Morton, a lawyer, a friar, and himself. (Interesting that Morton was so impressed with More as a child, that he arranged for his Oxford education). It begins with the execution of simple thieves, unfair and ineffective, says Raphael. Instead of punishing theft so severely, help all men to be able to earn a living.
The production of wool is another reason for thievery, "every acre enclosed for pasture.” (for sheep). Feudal tenants are dismissed with no place to go; whole families.
Monopoly and oligopoly - surprised to see these terms in use so long ago.
"Hideous poverty exists side by side with wanton luxury."
"It seems to me, most kind and reverent father", says Raphael, "that it is altogether unjust to take someone's life for taking money. Nothing in the world that fortune can bestow is equal in value to human life."... "But then, what prevents men from making other laws in the same way-perhaps even laws legalizing rape, adultery, perjury?" How about abortion? This argument is so relevant to what is going on in the world today. The disregard for human life, (especially in this country), is leading to all kinds of treachery.
How can England's "new law" of Christ be harsher and more severe that the law of Moses where death was never a penalty for any crime, certainly not theft.
Persian Ploylerites:
Criminals work constantly, make restitution, atone for sins, ("see the necessity of being honest"), slaves, have a chopped ear for ID, can be whipped, wear a special badge, must stay in own district, carry no money or weapons, "accept punishment in the spirit of obedience" and possibly earn freedom. Or try to escape and die for doing so. Is this the labor camp?
I love reading this book.
More says to Raphael, basically he is now convinced that, "There is no place for philosophy in the council of kings." But, You can have some positive impact and you have the obligation to try so that, "What you cannot turn to good, you may at least make as little bad as possible."
Utopia sounds like Communism with the presence of God.
Luckily, a ship of Romans and Egyptians wrecked on Utopia and they never left. They taught the Utopians many important things they may not have otherwise figured out. This passage made me laugh.
I like this quote, "Only rich men can afford to seek positions which ought to be held by the wise."
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elder-
Diplomatic travels abroad influenced his writing; introduced the sonnet to England. Narrowly escaped death at the hands of Henry VIII, 2 times.
"Whoso list to hunt"
He is tired of seeking female deer?
Like attempting to hold the wind in a net?
Futile, exhausting; even if he is successful, she is too wild to hold onto even though she seems tame. This sounds like a man who is tiring of the pursuit of the woman he loves and will probably never obtain. Anne Boleyn?
"My Galley"
The subject is traveling late at night on a ship in dangerous seas? Those accompanying him are unconcerned about his well-being. In this poem, the writer expresses extreme insecurity, uncertainty, and fear. But of whom or what? Himself, his life?
Apparently, he has little hope of making it home: "Drowned is reason that should me consort, and I remain despairing of the port."
Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elder-
Diplomatic travels abroad influenced his writing; introduced the sonnet to England. Narrowly escaped death at the hands of Henry VIII, 2 times.
"Whoso list to hunt"
He is tired of seeking female deer?
Like attempting to hold the wind in a net?
Futile, exhausting; even if he is successful, she is too wild to hold onto even though she seems tame. This sounds like a man who is tiring of the pursuit of the woman he loves and will probably never obtain. Anne Boleyn?
"My Galley"
The subject is traveling late at night on a ship in dangerous seas? Those accompanying him are unconcerned about his well-being. In this poem, the writer expresses extreme insecurity, uncertainty, and fear. But of whom or what? Himself, his life?
Apparently, he has little hope of making it home: "Drowned is reason that should me consort, and I remain despairing of the port."
Intro to 16th Century - reading
Intro to 16th Century - reading
I have never done this before, so bear with me and I hope I am doing what is expected of me for this class - I will use all the advice I can get.
The 16th Century is a fascinating time in the history of the world, but Henry VIII was an insane monarch and he repulses me. He declared himself the head of the English Church! Despite this fact, many interesting historical events occurred.
English was a language that carried no importance until the end of the 16th C
More's well-received "Utopia" written in Latin and not translated to English until late 1550's.
By 1600, English language very powerful communication medium- talented writers created many remarkable works in the language, including Bible translations.
The House of Tudor, "Groom of the Stool", courtiers
Court center of culture and power: theatre and masque, dress, speech, tastes in music, painting and poetry.
Economic boom-time for England, especially London.
Renaissance in Italy influenced rebirth in England.
Beginning of Humanist perspectives and thought.
Education focus,"shifted from training for the Church to the general acquisition of literature...”
REFORMATION - (I like the first paragraph about Catholicism). Martin Luther forever changed Christianity; "sola scriptura", "sola fide".
Key Players: Zwingli, Calvin, Pope Leo X, Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII.
And then, "Bloody Mary" and Elizabeth.
I have never done this before, so bear with me and I hope I am doing what is expected of me for this class - I will use all the advice I can get.
The 16th Century is a fascinating time in the history of the world, but Henry VIII was an insane monarch and he repulses me. He declared himself the head of the English Church! Despite this fact, many interesting historical events occurred.
English was a language that carried no importance until the end of the 16th C
More's well-received "Utopia" written in Latin and not translated to English until late 1550's.
By 1600, English language very powerful communication medium- talented writers created many remarkable works in the language, including Bible translations.
The House of Tudor, "Groom of the Stool", courtiers
Court center of culture and power: theatre and masque, dress, speech, tastes in music, painting and poetry.
Economic boom-time for England, especially London.
Renaissance in Italy influenced rebirth in England.
Beginning of Humanist perspectives and thought.
Education focus,"shifted from training for the Church to the general acquisition of literature...”
REFORMATION - (I like the first paragraph about Catholicism). Martin Luther forever changed Christianity; "sola scriptura", "sola fide".
Key Players: Zwingli, Calvin, Pope Leo X, Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII.
And then, "Bloody Mary" and Elizabeth.
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