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Argument:This article was based on other critics arguments on Sense and Sensibility and whether or not the novel's purpose was feministic and the differnce or importance of having sense and sensibility. Evidence:-"Austen understood the position of women who were deprived of the means to earn an income but needed to maintain their social standing." -"The triumph of sense over sensibility in the novel establishes the value of conventional feminine virtues, a position also espoused by other writers in the aftermath of the Revolution." -"Austen advocated a woman's possessing "sense," not "sensibility," while others have argued that Austen advocated possessing neither one nor the other, but a balance between the two." "signaling Austen's attempt to reshape ideas about gender through her novel." Thoughts:Though the critics argue on the feminist or anti-feminist attitude of Jane Austen and her novels, it is clear that the purpose of her novels is feministic in nature. Whether based on her life, or simply fictional, the novels are promoting a view on the women's place in society, as it is, and as it should be.

This article takes the coping mechanisms in the lovely bones and is connecting it to real life and gives more insight to why the acted the way they did and also how their different ways of coping lead to a divided family. 

Dacia Di Gerolamo Ms. Jensen AP English 12 26 January 2011 AP Literature Analysis 4 Pygmalion was not a single genre book, but a book with genres intertwined. Not only was it a romance but also a comedy. Not a traditional romance with the fairy tale ending, but a story in which love is used, but not in the sense it is usually portrayed. It was a comedy not in a humorous way but in a way in which Shaw used satire to shed light on social issues. Issues such as division between the classes during the 1800's. The purpose of this article was to evaluate dramatic comedies in the 1800's. It examines the satire used in the early works. The author is able to clearly express his view. He constructively criticizes dramatic comedies of the time. The author uses the traditional ideas of the genre a long with how the authors built their works around the genre. Enough evidence is definitely provided for the reader to get the point of the paper. The author points out that the works are defined by the characters actions. The author is able to make the characters a certain way in order to fit a genre. In Shaw's case the genre was not only a comedy, but a romance as well. The author can easily have bias especially on the romance genre, whether good or bad. And also the sense of humor can affect it. All his bias can affect his view on all pieces of romantic criticisms.

Argument: The critic argues that The Hundred Secret Senses was a book that left her thinking about if what we as humans always see can be perceived as real, or just our imagination. She also asked which part of the world would be best to actually live your life. Evidence: "In this novel, two sisters, (the father's sisters), are responsible for calling into question both the world of reality, like fantasy" (unknown). "And after reading the book. I wonder: Which of the two sets is most appropriate for us to settle not only survive but try to live?" (unknown). Thoughts: This critic seems to have thoroughly enjoyed this book just because it caused her to actually think. This critic gave such high praise of this book, and after reading The Hundred Secret Senses i have to agree.

Argument: Conrad's purpose for writing The Secret Sharer is to get the reader to infer the themes of " the dual Selves that exist in each person and the extent of responsibility one holds for another in contrast to one's Self." Evidence:1.The suspenseful artistry in Conrad's style of writing serves to amplify the contrasting persona of the captain and his second self. 2. He succeeds in this by vividly portraying his themes of Self and responsibility through his suspenseful artistry and his various methods of first person point of view, use of symbols, tone, and biblical allusion. Quotes: "Conrad's use of first person point of view narration via the captain is essential to showing how the protagonist views himself as an incomplete Self." "In describing the captain and his surroundings, Conrad paints the picture of a timid man who lacks confidence aboard a ship that harbors mutinous qualities." "A deep connection between the captain and Leggatt seems to exist, indicating that their meeting will have significant ramifications. With such a strong bond seeming to form immediately between these two, the reader can sense the captain's previous feeling of being a "stranger" shed. Through Conrad's use of first person point of view, the reader gets a clear picture of the incomplete Self the narrator originally feels give way to a stronger sense of completeness." Own Thoughts: I like how the source explains that characterization can be found through narrator's tone. Conrad making his writing suspenseful helps understand the characters and also helps set the stage of what is to come.

Argument: There are plenty of options to help satisfy the social needs of younger generations. Claim: Younger generations usually turn to bad influences because they are the easiest to be surrounded by, and seek that sense of belonging. Evidence: "They may desire to experience a sense of companionship and social interaction among their peers. They seek the sense of belonging and companionship that can only come from being surrounded by others (Sexton)".

Argument: Fitzgerald used characterization to uphold his view on the American culture during the Jazz Age. Claim: Fitzgerald is able to establish a clear reflection of a large society through one or two characters. His approach to writing a culturally reflective novel is shown through brightest by character interactions. Evidence: "Echoes of the American Dream pervade the novel, which contrasts the supposed innocence and moral sense of the "Western" characters with the sophistication and materialism of the "Eastern" characters" (Palvovski).

Argument: The fact that Steinbeck is a romantic naturalist appears vividly throughout his novels. Claims: His views affect literary devices such as diction, plot, and character development. Evidence: "The Darwinism of 'The Red Pony' is brought from conflict of animals to the conflict between men in 'Of Mice and Men'...As engaging to our own sense of romantic and sentiment as Lennie's and George's dream of a small ranch may be, the facts are that they do not have the power within the scheme of things to make this dream come true" (1). http://go.galegroup.com.lib.chandleraz.gov/ps/i.do?action=interpret&id=GALE%7CH1100000795&v=2.1&u=chandler_main&it=r&p=LitRC&sw=w&authCount=1

I'm having some issues with the website, but I do have the analysis saved if you end up needing a hard copy :)

In what is known as one of Beckett's most infamous works, it appears that what occurs on stage and even between the actors and audience is a game. In his review of the work, Atkinson boldly claims that it was "Impressive in the macabre intensity of the mood", making it a close contender with Beckett's "Waiting for Godot". While the argument of the article may not be relatively easy to pick up, upon closer inspection of the critique it may seem as if Atkinson has no opinion on the matter due to the highly interpretive and almost incomprehensible manner in which Beckett's works are put forth. Atkinson even states "Don't expect this column to give a coherent account of what--if anything-- happens. Almost nothing happens in the sense of action." So what exactly can be said about the work? Clearly Beckett has found a knack in creating a feeling of nothing, in "Endgame" as well as in "Waiting for Godot", the settings are never clearly described, and what little details are given out may in fact be seen in infinite number of ways. For example the author, Atkinson, has seen the other works of Beckett before reviewing his latest, this article being published the day after the debut in new york on Jan. 29, 1958, which would indeed give him a bias as to how he would experience the work. If someone were to review the play who had never seen anything of Beckett's before, it may be almost certain that most of what is said would be confusion, and misunderstanding about the purpose of the play. I feel that Atkinson, having had the experience, accurately portrays the works in his article/review. Beckett is a modern writer who plays out work in an old style. His two plays mentioned before are both considered comedies, but not in the laugh out loud sense, but the classical interpretation of what comedies where meant to be. Yet still creating an almost post- apocalyptic environment while maintaining an elevated psychological approach to the viewing experience.

Argument: The argument of the critism on the language of Jane Austen, and the women of the time period, is that language and speech was used as a weapon. The critic also claims that although Austen speaks out about language as a manipulative tool, her female characters often use it that way. Language was used as a weapon by women because they were seen lower than men in the society of Austen's time. Language and speech were the only way to counteract male dominance, and allowed the women to have some influence. Not only speech was used, but also silence. The Critic claims that women used Language to manipulate and get their way. Evidence: "Female speech "veiled Warfare" " the female characters in Sense and Sensibility language- or the absence of it to manipulate those around them, as well as Austen's clear commentary on such manipulations of power." "Play games with language." The critic gives many examples of when Austen's characters in Sense and Sensibility use language to manipulate, and get what they want. He also shows the power Austen has with language. Thoughts: Michal Beth Dinkler, makes a strong argument, with good examples, on Austen's use of language. His critism also shows the social standing and mind set of women in Austen's day. Her books make women seem more intelligent and stronger than the men of that time period. This is because of Austen's masterful use of the English language.

Argument: Salinger's switches between "internal/ external focalization" as a tool to limit the reader from delving into the fictional world of the character.
Claim: The writing creates a sense of urgency for the reader for internal focalization and the opposite for external.

Evidence: "... The Catcher in the Rye: there the use of "internal focalization" puts the reader into Holden Caulfield's mind, creating the impression of a subjective or a "figural" perspective."

Argument: John Stinson suggests that through allusion Anthony Burgess displays different facets of himself throughout his novels. Stinson focuses on three of Burgess' works centering on how his identification with other artists allows him to confront his own contradictions as an artist. Stinson also argues that Burgess' use of an alter-ego gives him an outlet of manageability in his own life. Evidence:"...alike in their evident feeling that the novel of a consistent tone, moving through a recognized and restricted cycle of emotional keys was outdated . . . their attempt has been to combine the violent and the absurd, the grotesque and the romantic, the farcical and the horrific within a single novel" (Amis).  "What hurts me . . . is the allegation . . . that there is a gratuitous indulgence in violence which turns an intended homiletic work into a pornographic one" (Burgess). "The artist's desire to reconcile the apparent opposites is, somewhat paradoxically, often what provides the motive force for his art, but it also makes his personal life very difficult" (Stinson). Thoughts: Stinson offers a unique view on Burgess' writing style and use of allusion. By focusing on Burgess' lesser known works (known being A Clockwork Orange) he gives a greater sense of the writer's analogy between his own life and his artist persona. Stinson achieves his assertions in a clear and logical manner, first denoting Burgess' relationship with the artist, then by providing examples from three of Burgess' works.

Source #3 Argument: Connection is why we're here. Claim: Shame is the fear of disconnection which leads to vulnerability. The people who have a strong sense of love and belonging believe their worthy of love and belonging. We fear we're not worthy of connection. The people who thought they were worthy had courage, compassion, connection, and embraced vulnerability. We numb vulnerability however we cannot selectivly numb emotion. Evidence: Between the main characters in both novels they feel this way as described in the claim. They both get to that numb vulnerability stage where they don't exactly know how to handle it.

Argument: The argument is that this book forces the reader to think a little out of the box and it can seem as a realistic story.The reader must be able to intertwine their "senses" between the fast and present, between reality and fantasy, and through the lives of yin and yang. The critic, Benzi Zhang, just summarizes the book and discusses the points in the book where the characters changes between past and present. Evidence: "Tan's novel moves toward the subversion of our rational perception of life, elaborating on "the question of life continuing beyond our ordinary senses" (Zhang). "Western rationalism and materialism have left Olivia with a limited view of life, and she cannot grasp the spiritual values embodied in Kwan's Chinese way of thinking" (Zhang). Thoughts: I think that this book just forces the reader to go deeper into the book, and makes them read beyond the words. This book may be realistic in some ways, since everyone gets confused between reality and fantasy. Tan uses symbolism and creativity to explain her life, or how shoe would have liked it to be. She views everything so open minded, and she observes every detail, and wondering how the it might portray to someone else. This book is the perfect book to describe Tan's thinking.

Argument: Rubin Rabinovitz writes that Anthony Burgess reuses a motif of libertarian vs. authoritarian in many of his novels. Often times this conflict of the characters is a projection of Burgess' views on morals and ethics as well as a display of Burgess' internal struggle. Rabinovitz refers to his novels A Clockwork Orange and the Tremor of Intent, pegging characters to libertarian and authoritarian personas. Through these comparisons he observes Burgess' own inconsistencies in his writing. Evidence: "The apparent inconsistencies in Burgess's dualistic moral views are sometimes seen as the result of his utilization of the Eastern yin-yang principles" (Rabinovitz). "What the religious novelist often seems to be saying is that evil is a kind of good, since it is an aspect of Ultimate Reality; though what he is really saying is that evil is more interesting to write about than good" (Burgess). "Very often, Burgess's use of Manichean dualism does work to reconcile differences in Eastern and Western thought; but problems arise when a choice must be made between relativism and absolutism...Absolutism seems to demand absolute fidelity, and in this sense Burgess's moral point of view appears ambiguous or inconsistent" (Rabinovitz). Thoughts: Rabinovitz focuses on conflicting ideologies that are not often recognized when reading A Clockwork Orange. He also offers a background on Anthony Burgess' location and how that contributes to his characters. Rabinovitz recognizes many of Burgess' characters as projections of Burgess himself and proposes how the clash of eastern and western philosophy influenced the author.

Cody Villanueva Jensen AP LIT 20 January 2011 Literary Analysis #2 The novel not only portrays a sense of classic literature, but for Bill Robinson Life of Pi is presumably an award winner. Based on what Robinson says is "straightforward and innocent in a way that is entertaining and highly engaging," he praises this novel for its mere simplicity and uniqueness that not only is carried through Martel's text but his overall idea and organization of the novel. As perceived to be a novel of such grace and simplicity, it seems as if Robinson connects more intimately to this novel due to the fact of its heavy affiliation with religion. Within his review not only does he state Martel's thoughts , in this case being "This is a novel of such rare and wondrous storytelling that it may, as one character claims, make you believe in God." but praises it by saying "Could a reader ask for anything more?" Due to Robinson's religious arousal this is a possible bias toward readers of religious ambiguity or unaffiliated preference. Even though Robinson's praise Martel for such a genius novel, he rarely comments on any of the downsides the novel contains. It takes him to the end where he finally comments on a small portion of the novels ending and how it "drags a bit at the end," but is simply reinstating what other reviews may say. The author in conclusion contains an overall affectionate appeal to this novel with rare and minimal critiques, possibly due to a assumed bias. Robinson not only praise's this novel in words but it seems as he pushes this novels to review for an accredited award based on his overall high ratings for the novel.

Mythology Genre Criticism Mythology, as being associated with belief and religion, is probably one of the oldest genres known to man. Because it is defined as stories all based upon a particular religion it can in fact encompass any religion and in doing so mythology has become a diverse and often utilized tool for writers especially. One of the more famous types of mythology is that of Greek Mythology. During the time of Ancient Greece most entertainment and even history were all based upon mythology. Homer, a well-known writer of that era encompassed and surrounded both The Odyssey and The Iliad with countless mythology references. Author John Holcombe argues in his unnamed article that mythology was utilized as more than just a past time, but it was in fact a way for people to connect and bond. "Myths are collective and communal, and so bring a sense of wholeness and togetherness to social life," (Holcombe). In times of limited resources of connection people would rely on word of mouth. Not only does Holcombe argue it as a way to connect but he also attempts to state that it is psychological and even a necessity for people to have created myths. He states that with the limited amount of knowledge possessed in ancient times people naturally concocted their own ideas and explanations for the unexplained. The overall organization of Holcombe's article is well thought out. It begins with history and background and then proceeds to his own views as to give his readers a sense of unbiased opinion. His focus is clear and is even stated in his thesis. He is clear in his assertion that mythology is more than just literature from the past, it is science and psychology as well.

Argument: DIsplay of power by a race determines the amount of respect they receive. Physical identity determines consciousness and creation of american culture. Claim: Seperation and 'diversity' of of races in the 1950's presented in Invisible Man and Shadow and Act, display a use of Marxism as a real satire to portray the mistreatment that some races face, even though these races are people, and they are American. Evidence: What once looked tame or apolitical in Ellison's work--his emphasis on identity, freedom, and the vast potential for diversity in American life--has come to seem more radical than the political criticism that rejected it; this too has become part of our revised view of the postwar years. The key to Ellison's approach is his way of exploring his double consciousness, his sense of identity as a Negro and as an American. You cannot have an American experience without having a black experience.