Thinking Activity: Screening & Reading 'Macbeth'

 

This blog is based upon Thinking Task assigned by Dilip Sir.

William shakespeare :

William Shakespeare (23April 1564 – 23 April 1616) was an English playwright, poet and actor. He is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist.He is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon" (or simply "the Bard"). His extant works, including collaborations, consist of some 39 plays, 154 sonnets, three long narrative poems and a few other verses, some of uncertain authorship.

Play Macbeth :

Macbeth (full title The Tragedie of Macbeth) is a tragedy by William Shakespeare. It is thought to have been first performed in 1606. It dramatises the damaging physical and psychological effects of political ambition on those who seek power. Of all the plays that Shakespeare wrote during the reign of James I, Macbeth most clearly reflects his relationship with King James, patron of Shakespeare's acting company. It was first published in the Folio of 1623, possibly from a prompt book, and is Shakespeare's shortest tragedy.

Characters : 

Duncan

Malcolm

Donalbain

Macbeth

Lady Macbeth

Banquo

Fleance

Macduff

Lady Macduff

Macduff's son

Plot  :

"Macbeth"is a tragedy by William Shakespeare that explores themes of ambition, power, guilt, and the supernatural. Here's a summary of the plot:

Act 1:

The play opens with three witches on a Scottish heath, where they plan to meet Macbeth, a Scottish general. Meanwhile, King Duncan of Scotland receives news of Macbeth's bravery in battle and decides to reward him. The witches meet Macbeth and his friend Banquo, predicting that Macbeth will become Thane of Cawdor and eventually King of Scotland, while Banquo's descendants will inherit the throne. Soon after, Macbeth is indeed named Thane of Cawdor, sparking his ambition to become king.

Act 2:

Encouraged by his wife, Lady Macbeth, who is even more ambitious than he is, Macbeth murders King Duncan while he sleeps. Macbeth then frames the king's guards for the murder and kills them in a supposed act of revenge. Duncan's sons, Malcolm and Donalbain, flee the country, fearing for their lives, which leads others to suspect them of being involved in their father’s murder.

Act 3:

Macbeth is crowned king, but he is paranoid about the witches' prophecy regarding Banquo's descendants. To secure his throne, Macbeth arranges for Banquo and his son, Fleance, to be killed. Banquo is murdered, but Fleance escapes. At a banquet, Macbeth is haunted by Banquo's ghost, which only he can see, leading to a public display of madness.

Act 4:

Macbeth visits the witches again, who tell him to beware of Macduff, a Scottish nobleman, but they also tell him that no one born of a woman will harm him and that he will remain undefeated until Birnam Wood moves to Dunsinane Hill. Feeling invincible, Macbeth orders the slaughter of Macduff’s family. Macduff, who has fled to England, joins forces with Malcolm to overthrow Macbeth.

Act 5:

Lady Macbeth, overwhelmed with guilt for her role in the murders, descends into madness and eventually dies, presumably by suicide. The forces led by Malcolm and Macduff march on Macbeth’s castle at Dunsinane. In a twist of fate, they camouflage themselves with branches from Birnam Wood, making it appear as if the forest is moving towards the castle. In the final battle, Macbeth fights valiantly but is ultimately killed by Macduff, who reveals that he was not "born of a woman" in the usual way but was delivered by a Caesarean section. Malcolm is declared king, restoring order to Scotland.

Themes: 

The play delves into the corrupting power of unchecked ambition, the psychological effects of guilt, and the influence of the supernatural on human actions.

Thank you. 

An Essay on Dramatic Poesy by John Dryden

This blog task is based on the 'Bridge Course - Dryden's 'Essay of Dramatic Poesy'' assigned by Dilip Sir.

 John Dryden's Essay of Dramatick Poesy was likely written in 1666 during the Great Plague of London and published in 1668. Dryden's claim in this essay was that poetic drama with English and Spanish influence is a justifiable art form when compared to traditional French poetry.

The treatise is a dialogue among four speakers: Eugenius, Crites, Lisideius, and Neander. The four speakers are Sir Robert Howard [Crites], Charles Sackville (then Lord Buckhurst) [Eugenius], Sir Charles Sedley [Lisedeius], and Dryden himself (Neander means "new man" and implies that Dryden, as a respected member of the gentry class, is entitled to join in this dialogue on an equal footing with the three older men who are his social superiors).

1 : Discuss any differences you observe between Aristotle's definition of Tragedy and Dryden's definition of Play.

Aristotle and John Dryden, two towering figures in the history of literary criticism, offer distinct definitions of tragedy and play, shaped by the cultural contexts and artistic philosophies of their respective eras. Aristotle, writing in ancient Greece, presents a more formalized and morally driven conception of tragedy, while Dryden, influenced by the dynamic and diverse Restoration theatre in 17th-century England, adopts a more flexible and inclusive approach to drama. These differing perspectives reflect the unique values and priorities of their times, offering valuable insights into the evolution of dramatic theory.

Aristotle and John Dryden indeed offer distinct definitions of tragedy and play, shaped by their respective cultural contexts and artistic philosophies.

Aristotle’s Definition of Tragedy :

In his Poetics, Aristotle defines tragedy as “an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain magnitude.” He emphasizes the emotional impact of tragedy, specifically its ability to evoke pity and fear in the audience, leading to a catharsis, or purification of these emotions. For Aristotle, the structure of a tragedy is crucial—it should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, and be unified in terms of time, place, and action (the classical unities). The protagonist, often a noble figure, undergoes a reversal of fortune due to a tragic flaw (hamartia), leading to their downfall.

Dryden’s Definition of Play :

John Dryden, writing during the Restoration period, offers a more flexible and pragmatic approach to drama in his Essay of Dramatic Poesy. Unlike Aristotle, who focused on the moral and emotional aspects of tragedy, Dryden is more concerned with the broader concept of play or drama as an artistic form. Dryden acknowledges the evolving nature of drama and the different tastes of audiences. He defends the mixing of tragic and comic elements (tragicomedy) and the breaking of the classical unities, reflecting the more diverse and experimental spirit of the Restoration theatre. Dryden argues that drama should mirror life in all its variety, not just the lofty or serious aspects, and should be entertaining as well as instructive.

Cultural and Philosophical Contexts:

Aristotle’s Context : 

Aristotle's views are grounded in the classical Greek context, where tragedy was a highly formalized and respected genre with religious and moral significance. His emphasis on catharsis reflects the Greek belief in the therapeutic value of art in society.

  Dryden’s Context: 

Dryden, writing in 17th-century England, was influenced by the Restoration’s lively and diverse theatrical scene. His more inclusive definition of drama reflects a period of artistic experimentation and a broader audience base, including the influence of French neoclassicism and English Renaissance drama.

In summary, while Aristotle’s definition of tragedy is more rigid and focused on the moral and emotional purification of the audience, Dryden’s definition of play is broader, accommodating various dramatic forms and emphasizing entertainment and a reflection of real life.

2.State your preference for poetic or prosaic dialogues in a play and explain your reasoning.

I tend to prefer poetic dialogues in a play, primarily because they elevate the language and add a lyrical quality that can enhance the emotional and thematic depth of the performance. Poetic dialogue often allows for richer metaphors, more nuanced wordplay, and a rhythm that can intensify the dramatic experience. This form of dialogue can also give characters a heightened sense of presence, making their words resonate more profoundly with the audience.

However, the preference depends largely on the context of the play. In certain genres, like a modern drama or a play focused on realism, prosaic dialogue might be more appropriate as it can make characters feel more relatable and the situations more authentic. Ultimately, the choice between poetic and prosaic dialogue should serve the play’s overall tone, setting, and intention.

3.If you were to express your personal preference, would you side with the Ancients or the Moderns? Provide reasons for your choice.

I would side with the Ancients, particularly because of their emphasis on structure, form, and the timeless qualities of art. The Ancients, like Aristotle, placed a high value on the universality of themes, the cathartic function of tragedy, and the importance of unity in drama. Their focus on order, balance, and moral purpose in literature resonates with me as it provides a framework that has proven to be enduring and influential across centuries.

The disciplined approach of the Ancients, especially their emphasis on the classical unities and the moral dimensions of art, aligns with a belief in the transformative power of literature to not only entertain but also educate and refine the audience's sensibilities. The idea that art should strive toward ideals of beauty, truth, and goodness is a compelling one, offering a kind of artistic timelessness that speaks to the human condition in a profound way.

I also appreciate the innovations brought by the Moderns, especially their flexibility and willingness to break from tradition to explore new forms and ideas. But if I had to choose, the enduring principles and disciplined artistry of the Ancients hold more appeal for me.

4. Evaluate whether the arguments presented in favor of French plays and against English plays are appropriate. For example, consider the portrayal of death, duel fights with blunted swords, the representation of large armies by a few actors, the mingling of mirth and serious tones, and the use of multiple plots.

The arguments in favor of French plays and against English plays reflect different theatrical philosophies. 

- Portrayal of Death: French restraint in showing death aligns with their emphasis on decorum, while English plays prefer direct depiction for emotional impact.

- Duel Fights: French plays favor stylized, intellectual duels, whereas English plays use realistic combat to heighten drama.

- Representation of Armies: The French minimalism requires audience imagination, while English plays use vivid descriptions and staging for immersion.

- Mingling of Tones: French plays maintain a consistent tone, whereas English plays mix humor and tragedy, adding depth but risking tonal shifts.

Each approach has its merits, depending on the intended effect and audience preferences.

References:

1.Barad, Dilip. “William Wordsworth’s Preface to the Lyrical Ballads.” ResearchGate, Sept. 2023,https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.17305.39521

2."Essay of Dramatick Poesie." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 27 Aug. 2024, 

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Essay_of_Dramatick_Poesie. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.

3. Image :

Take a look at this John Dryden : An Essay on Dramatic Poesy on Flipkarthttps://dl.flipkart.com/s/iXozqyNNNN

ISBN: 9789351873679, 9351873676.

Thank you.

William Wordsworth's Preface to the Lyrical Ballads

This blog is based upon Thinking Task assigned by Dilip Sir.

 The "Preface to the Lyrical Ballads" by William Wordsworth, published in 1800, is a foundational text of English Romanticism. In it, Wordsworth advocates for a new poetic style that prioritizes the expression of ordinary life and emotions in simple, everyday language. He argues that poetry should be a "spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings" and challenges the formal, artificial conventions of earlier poetry. This preface marks a significant shift in literary theory, emphasizing natural expression, emotional depth, and the connection between poetry and human experience.

1.Why does Wordsworth ask "What is a poet?" rather than "Who is a poet?"

Wordsworth asks "What is a poet?" rather than "Who is a poet?" in the ''Preface to the Lyrical Ballads" to emphasize the nature and role of a poet rather than focusing on individual identity. By asking "What is a poet?" Wordsworth aims to define the essence of a poet—the qualities, functions, and purpose that distinguish a poet from others.

This question allows him to explore the deeper philosophical and psychological aspects of a poet's identity, rather than just identifying a poet by name or occupation. Wordsworth sees the poet as a person with heightened sensitivity, a greater depth of feeling, and an ability to perceive and communicate the profound emotions and experiences of life in a way that resonates with others. By focusing on "what" a poet is, Wordsworth establishes a broader, more universal understanding of the poet's role in society and in the realm of art.

Wordsworth's question "What is a poet?" is a strategic choice that allows him to explore the poet's role, qualities, and purpose in a way that goes beyond individual identity. It reflects his desire to establish a new understanding of the poet as a figure of profound emotional and moral insight, capable of revealing deep truths through their work. This redefinition is central to Wordsworth's broader project of transforming poetry and elevating its role in society.

2.What is poetic diction, and what type of poetic diction does Wordsworth suggest in his ?

Poetic diction :

 Poetic diction refers to the language and style used in poetry. Traditionally, it involved formal and often archaic language. In the 'Preface to the Lyrical Ballads', Wordsworth critiques this traditional style and advocates for using the "language really used by men"—simple, everyday language of ordinary people. He believed this approach makes poetry more relatable and emotionally genuine.

Wordsworth's Critique and Suggestion:

In the 'Preface to the Lyrical Ballads', Wordsworth rejects this traditional poetic diction. He argues that such an elevated and artificial style alienates poetry from the experiences and emotions of ordinary people. Instead, Wordsworth advocates for a new kind of poetic diction that is more natural, accessible, and true to life.

Wordsworth's Suggested Poetic Diction:

 Wordsworth's suggestion marked a significant shift from the neo-classical tradition of using lofty and ornate language in poetry. By advocating for the language of common people, he aimed to make poetry more accessible, relatable, and authentic. This departure aligned with his Romantic ideals, which emphasized emotion, imagination, and a closer connection between poetry and everyday life. His preface indeed laid the groundwork for a new era in English poetry, promoting a more natural and conversational style of expression.

Wordsworth advocates for a poetic diction that employs the "language really used by men," particularly that of rural and rustic individuals. He emphasizes simplicity and clarity, rejecting the ornate and artificial conventions of traditional poetry. By using everyday language, Wordsworth aims to ensure that poetry expresses genuine emotions and is more relatable and accessible, bringing it closer to real human experiences.

3.How does Wordsworth define poetry? Discuss this definition in relation to his poetic philosophy.

In his preface to Lyrical Ballads, William Wordsworth defines poetry as “the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquility.” This definition emphasizes that poetry is not merely a technical exercise or a representation of external reality but rather an expression of deep emotional experiences.

Wordsworth's poetic philosophy revolves around a four-stage process of creating poetry. First, the poet observes an object, character, or incident that evokes powerful emotions. Then, in a state of tranquility, the poet recollects these emotions, drawing on memory to bring past experiences to the forefront. Next, the poet filters out non-essential elements, distilling the experience to make it universally understandable. Finally, the poet composes the poem, using simple, natural language to convey these refined emotions to readers.

Wordsworth believed that poetry should not be an immediate expression of emotion but rather an "overflow of powerful feelings" that has been deeply pondered. He emphasized the use of everyday language, rejecting the artificial poetic diction of the 18th century. By defining poetry in this way and outlining his four-stage process, Wordsworth established a new approach that prioritized emotion, imagination, and the connection between poetry and everyday life. This philosophy significantly influenced his own work and the broader Romantic movement.

4. Analyze a poem in the context of Wordsworth's poetic creed.

To analyze a poem in the context of William Wordsworth's poetic creed, we must first understand the principles he championed, particularly those articulated in the "Preface to Lyrical Ballads" (1800). Let's analyze Wordsworth's poem "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey" in the context of his poetic creed.

Wordsworth’s reverence for nature is central to his creed, and “Tintern Abbey” exemplifies this. The poem describes the speaker’s return to the landscape of Tintern Abbey after five years. Nature is portrayed not just as a physical setting but as a living, nurturing presence that profoundly impacts the speaker's soul. Wordsworth believes that nature has the power to heal, inspire, and provide spiritual sustenance.

Employs straightforward language to convey profound personal feelings and connections, reflecting his belief in the power of plain speech to communicate genuine emotion and insight.The memory of the abbey and its natural setting provides a source of ongoing inspiration and contemplation, illustrating how past experiences shape and influence the present.

5.Wordsworth states, “A language was thus insensibly produced, differing materially from the real language of men in any situation.” Explain and illustrate this with reference to your reading of Wordsworth’s views on poetic diction in the Lyrical Ballads.

Wordsworth's goal was indeed to bring poetry closer to the language of everyday life and the experiences of common people. By using straightforward and natural language, he aimed to make poetry more accessible and emotionally resonant. 

In "The Solitary Reaper," for example, Wordsworth’s choice of simple, direct language helps convey the profound impact of the Highland girl's song. The vivid imagery and emotional depth are achieved without resorting to elaborate or artificial diction. This reflects Wordsworth's belief that the essence of poetry lies in its ability to express genuine human emotions and experiences, which are best captured in natural, unadorned language.

This approach not only challenges the prevailing poetic norms of his time but also reinforces his Romantic ideals, emphasizing the beauty and significance of ordinary life and the natural world.

6.Wordsworth describes a poet as "a man speaking to men: a man, it is true, endowed with more lively sensibility, more enthusiasm and tenderness.” Explain this with reference to your reading of Wordsworth’s views in the Lyrical Ballads.

In his preface to *Lyrical Ballads*, Wordsworth describes the poet as "a man speaking to men," emphasizing that poets, while possessing heightened sensitivity, are still connected to ordinary human experiences. According to Wordsworth, poets have a deeper emotional capacity and enthusiasm, which enables them to observe and express emotions in a profound way. He advocates for using simple, natural language to make poetry accessible and relatable, moving away from the elaborate diction of the 18th century. In poems like “The Solitary Reaper,” Wordsworth showcases this approach by capturing profound feelings through straightforward language, aligning with his Romantic ideals of genuine emotional expression and connection to everyday life.

7.Wordsworth claims that “A poet has a greater knowledge of human nature, and a more comprehensive soul, than one supposed to be common among mankind.” Discuss this with reference to your reading of Wordsworth’s views in the Lyrical Ballads.

Wordsworth's claim in the Lyrical Ballads that a poet has a "greater knowledge of human nature" reflects his belief in the unique insights and depth of understanding that poets possess. In the Lyrical Ballads, Wordsworth suggests that poets, through their imaginative and emotional engagement with the world, achieve a deeper connection with the essence of human experience than ordinary people. 

This perspective is evident in his emphasis on the poet's role as a mediator between nature and human emotions. For example, in "Lines Written a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey," Wordsworth explores how the poet's reflective engagement with nature provides profound insights into human emotions and spirituality. He argues that poets, by virtue of their heightened sensitivity and imaginative power, can capture and communicate the fundamental truths about human nature and experience, often overlooked in everyday life. This capacity allows poets to express universal themes and emotions in a way that resonates deeply with readers, thereby enriching their understanding of themselves and the world.

8.Wordsworth famously said, “For all good poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings.” Explain this with reference to Wordsworth’s definition of poetry.

Wordsworth's definition of poetry as "the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings" emphasizes the role of genuine emotion in the creative process. In his preface to the *Lyrical Ballads*, Wordsworth argues that poetry arises from the poet's intense personal experiences and emotions, which are then expressed with sincerity and depth. 

According to Wordsworth, the best poetry is not crafted solely through technical skill or formal structure but emerges naturally from the poet's heartfelt response to experiences. He believes that these powerful feelings, when expressed authentically, connect deeply with readers, conveying truths about human nature and emotions that resonate universally. This definition highlights the importance of emotional authenticity and personal connection in poetry, suggesting that the true value of a poem lies in its ability to communicate profound feelings and insights spontaneously and directly.

In Lyrical Ballads, this process is exemplified in poems like "The Solitary Reaper," where the poet’s initial emotional response to a scene is later transformed into thoughtful and resonant poetry. Thus, Wordsworth's definition emphasizes the balance between raw emotion and reflective composition in creating powerful, authentic poetry.

●References

Barad, Dilip. “William Wordsworth’s Preface to the Lyrical Ballads.” ResearchGate, Sept. 2023, https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.17305.39521.

 

Thank you. 

Socrates - The Life and the Trial

 

This blog is part of the Sunday reading task assigned by  Dilip Barad Sir. Here is the link to the professor's blog for background reading: Click hereClick here

1.सुकरात का दर्शन: मरते हुए एक मुर्गे की बात क्यों कर रहे थे? | Socrates | Tarikh Ep.744 |Lallantop. 

 

Socrates (c. 470/469 – 399 BCE) was a classical Greek philosopher who is credited as one of the founders of Western philosophy. He is best known for his contributions to ethics, epistemology, and for his method of questioning, now called the Socratic method. Much of what we know about Socrates comes from the accounts of his students, such as Plato and Xenophon, as well as the playwright Aristophanes.

Early Life :

Socrates was born in Athens to a stonemason named Sophroniscus and a midwife named Phaenarete. He served as a soldier in the Peloponnesian War and was known for his courage and endurance. Socrates was married to Xanthippe, and they had three sons. He spent much of his life in Athens, engaging in philosophical discussions in public places, particularly the marketplace (agora).

Philosophical Views :

Socrates is often associated with the development of ethical philosophy. He believed that virtue was the highest good and that knowledge and virtue were closely linked. Socrates famously claimed that he knew nothing, which he considered a sign of wisdom because it demonstrated an awareness of his own ignorance. His method of inquiry, now known as the Socratic method, involved asking a series of probing questions to help others arrive at their own conclusions. This approach was designed to expose contradictions in people's thoughts and lead them to a deeper understanding of the concepts under discussion.

The Trial of Socrates : 

Socrates' life came to a dramatic end with his trial and execution in 399 BCE. The charges brought against him were impiety (disbelief in the gods recognized by the state) and corrupting the youth of Athens. His accusers were Meletus, Anytus, and Lycon. These accusations stemmed, in part, from Socrates' association with controversial figures and his habit of questioning the status quo, which threatened the traditional beliefs and values of Athens.

During the trial, as recorded by Plato in the "Apology," Socrates defended himself by arguing that he had always sought to improve the moral character of those he interacted with and that he believed in a divine mission to challenge people's unexamined lives. He also suggested that his questioning was a service to the city, as it encouraged critical thinking and self-reflection.

Despite his defense, the jury found Socrates guilty, and he was sentenced to death by drinking a mixture containing poison hemlock. Socrates accepted his fate calmly, believing that he was acting in accordance with divine will. His death is often seen as a martyrdom for free thought and philosophy, and his life and ideas have had a lasting impact on Western intellectual history.

The trial and death of Socrates have been interpreted in various ways over the centuries, with some seeing him as a heroic figure who stood up for truth and integrity against an unjust society, while others view him as a destabilizing force who challenged the foundations of Athenian democracy.

Thank you.

Thinking Activity: Unit 1: History of English Literature: Chaucer to Shakespeare

 This blog is based upon Thinking Task assigned by Dilip Sir.

Q.1 . Rewriting the Last Monologue of Doctor Faustus with Insights from Bhagat Singh’s Arguments Reflect on the concluding monologue of Marlowe’s ' incorporating insights from Bhagat Singh’s essay "Why I am an Atheist". Consider how Singh’s perspectives on freedom, oppression, and revolutionary thought can offer new dimensions to Faustus’s final. 

Answer:

 To rewrite the concluding monologue of Christopher Marlowe’s 'Doctor Faustus' with insights from Bhagat Singh’s essay "Why I Am an Atheist," we can focus on the themes of freedom, oppression, and revolutionary thought. In the original monologue, Faustus is filled with regret and fear as he faces eternal damnation for his pact with the devil. Bhagat Singh’s views, however, are rooted in a defiance of oppressive systems, a rejection of fear, and a commitment to freedom, even in the face of death. Here’s how the monologue might be reimagined.

 While Marlowe's Faustus faces eternal damnation for his pact with the devil, Bhagat Singh, in his essay, critiques blind faith and advocates for intellectual freedom and social justice.

 Original Context:

In the original monologue, Faustus laments his impending doom, expressing regret for his choices, fear of eternal damnation, and longing for redemption. He pleads for time to stop, the stars to move backwards, and for divine intervention to save his soul.

 Incorporating Bhagat Singh’s Insights:

Freedom:

Singh’s emphasis on intellectual freedom contrasts sharply with Faustus’s realization of his enslavement to Lucifer. While Faustus seeks to escape the consequences of his choices, Singh’s arguments might inspire a Faustus who embraces responsibility and seeks to liberate himself through knowledge and resistance rather than submission and fear.

Oppression:

 Singh’s critique of oppressive systems might lead to a reimagined Faustus who recognizes his pact with Lucifer as a metaphorical reflection of human subjugation under tyrannical forces. Instead of despairing over his fate, this Faustus might acknowledge how he allowed himself to be oppressed by his desires and misguided ambitions.

Revolutionary Thought:

 Instead of begging for divine intervention, a Faustus influenced by Bhagat Singh could reject the very structures that demand his submission. He might denounce the moral and spiritual authorities that impose fear and instead embrace a defiant stance, seeking freedom through self-awareness and rebellion against the forces that bind him.

Rewritten Monologue:

"Ah, Faustus, now thou must be wise,  

Not by the fear of eternal flame,  

But by the fire of reason that shall cleanse the mind.  

Why dost thou cry out for time to halt,  

For heavens to fold their wings,  

When it is in thy power to rise above these chains?  

Didst thou not seek knowledge, freedom, power?  

Yet in thy pursuit, thou becamest a slave,  

Not to Lucifer, but to the weakness of thine own spirit.

O souls of the oppressed, hear me!  

Not in prayers and supplications is freedom found,  

But in the breaking of these invisible bonds,  

In the rebellion against the tyranny of the mind.  

What are these gods and devils but constructs,  

That have kept us blind, docile, submissive?

Let Faustus no longer cry for mercy  

From a heaven that has closed its ears.  

Let him rise, let him embrace  

The truth that no god or devil can offer—  

That liberty is in the mind that dares to question,  

To challenge, to overthrow the fear of the unknown.

Time, do not stop; stars, do not retreat!  

For I, Faustus, in this final hour,  

Shall find my freedom not in forgiveness,  

But in the defiance of all that seeks to oppress me.  

Let me burn, if I must,  

But let it be with the fire of truth,  

A blaze that no hell can quench,  

For in my destruction, I shall be free!"

This rewritten monologue reflects a Faustus who, instead of succumbing to despair, finds a revolutionary strength inspired by Bhagat Singh’s arguments. It portrays a Faustus who sees beyond the fear of damnation and embraces the pursuit of intellectual freedom, even in the face of his own destruction.

Conclusion :

In this version of Faustus's monologue, we see a shift from the original narrative of fear and regret to one of defiance and empowerment. Faustus, inspired by Bhagat Singh’s arguments, rejects the fear of divine retribution and instead embraces the freedom to think and act for himself, even if it leads to eternal damnation. This monologue transforms Faustus into a revolutionary figure, one who challenges the very foundations of the power structures that seek to control him, and who ultimately finds liberation in his own resistance.

Thank you. 

Media : Freedom of the Press | Shashi Tharoor Media | Freedom of the

 

Q : 1 What is the significance of World Freedom Day? 

Answer :       

                        November 9.

World Freedom Day is an annual event that honors the historic events of November 9, 1989, when the Berlin Wall, which separated East and West Berlin, was breached and ultimately led to its demolition. This symbolic moment marked the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new era of freedom and unity.The Berlin Wall stood as an imposing concrete barrier, physically and ideologically separating East and West Berlin during the Cold War era. Its construction in 1961 represented a stark division between democracy and communism, leaving families torn apart and freedom restricted for nearly three decades.

 

     Since its inception, World Freedom Day has served as a global reminder of the importance of freedom, democracy, and human rights, as well as an opportunity to celebrate the values that unite people around the world.

Q : 2 How does access to information bring about empowerment?

Answer : 

Information can change the way we see the world around us, and our place in it. Fact-driven decision-making can significantly alter our political, social and economic perspectives. Empowerment is the natural by-product of access to accurate, fair and unbiased information representing many opinions.

          How can media freedom and access to information support the wider development objective of empowering people? This book highlights freedom of expression and the right to information as fundamental human rights. Press freedom and access to information support participatory democracy and empower people by giving them information that can help them gain control over their own lives. An open, pluralistic media sector relies on political will and an enabling legal and regulatory environmentPress freedom and access to information feed into the wider development objective of empowering people. This supports participatory democracy by giving citizens the capacity to engage in public debate and to hold governments and others accountable. To make empowerment a reality, several conditions are necessary:

Access to diverse media outlets: Media pluralism is critical and not easily attainable. Even in highly-saturated media markets, pluralism is often lacking.

Political will: A legal and regulatory framework must exist that allows an open and pluralistic media sector to emerge.

Analytical media consumption and related skills: People need the skills to produce, circulate, analyse and engage with the media.

When these conditions are in place, the media can serve as a watchdog, civil society engages with authorities and decision-makers, and information flows through and between communities. Further implications include the following:

Media pluralism, an enabling legal environment and journalistic safety are essential to empowerment and access to information. Community media and audience participation are also important.

Commitment is needed to remove obstacles to press freedom, improve conditions for independent and professional journalism and empower citizens to engage in public debate.

Commitments to international protocols and declarations on media freedom need to be respected. Even where the state respects media freedom, so too should other social forces.

New technology can provide enormous information benefits, but needs to be underpinned by measures that empower people to make use of it: quality education for all, universal access to information and knowledge, and respect for linguistic diversity.

     Access to information empowers individuals by providing knowledge, fostering informed decision-making, and promoting critical thinking. It enables people to stay updated, participate in civic activities, and pursue personal growth. In conclusion, information access is a catalyst for empowerment, offering the tools necessary for individuals to navigate, contribute, and excel in various aspects of life.

Q : 3 Which news channel do you watch regularly?

Answer: 

   1. Ravish Kumar Official

   2. Tv9 gujarati 

Q : 4. Who is your favorite journalist?

Answer : 

      Ravish Kumar is my favorite journalist.

Aristotle's Poetics - Thinking Activity

This blog is based upon Thinking Task assigned by Dilip Sir.

Q : 1. To what extent do you agree with Plato's objection to the freedom of expression and artistic liberty enjoyed by creative writers? Identify texts (novels, plays, poems, movies, TV soaps, etc.) that can be justifiably objected to and banned based on Plato's objections.

 Answer :

 Introduction :

Plato'sobjections to the freedom of expression and artistic liberty enjoyed by creative writers stem from his belief that art has the power to influence society profoundly, often in ways that can be detrimental to moral and intellectual development. In works like "The Republic," Plato argues that art, particularly poetry and drama, can mislead individuals, promote irrationality, and undermine virtuous living by appealing to emotions rather than reason. While his views may seem restrictive by modern standards, they raise important questions about the impact of art on society. In this context, examining contemporary works through Plato's lens can provide insights into the potential justifications for censorship based on his philosophical objections.

Agreement with Plato's Objections :

Plato's objections to artistic freedom and expression, particularly his belief that art should promote moral and educational values, raise interesting questions about the role and limits of creative works in society. To evaluate this in contemporary terms, we need to consider the balance between artistic freedom and social responsibility.

To some extent, Plato's concerns about the influence of art are valid. Art and media can indeed shape societal norms and individual behaviors. For instance, exposure to violent content has been linked to increased aggression, and media portrayal of certain behaviors can normalize or glamorize them. However, the modern perspective generally values freedom of expression as a fundamental right, essential for personal expression, social critique, and cultural development. The idea of banning or heavily censoring artistic expression is often seen as problematic due to its potential to stifle creativity and hinder the exchange of ideas.

In essence, while Plato's concerns about the potential negative effects of art are worth considering, I lean towards the view that maintaining a balance where artistic freedom is preserved but accompanied by ethical responsibility and critical engagement is more beneficial for a society.

Texts That Could Be Justifiably Objected to Based on Plato's Objections :

Identifying specific texts that could be justifiably objected to and banned based on Plato's objections involves considering works that might promote harmful behaviors or undermine moral values. Here are some examples across various media.

 Bollywood Movie :

"Adipurush" (2023): 

A modern adaptation of the epic Ramayana, the film was criticized for its depiction of certain characters and its approach to sensitive themes. Plato might object to this movie if it portrays religious figures in a way that could be seen as disrespectful or misleading, potentially influencing public perception negatively.

"Rang De Basanti" (2006)

While "Rang De Basanti" could be seen as potentially problematic from a Platonic viewpoint, its impact on fostering critical thinking and social awareness highlights the value of artistic freedom in addressing and challenging societal issues.The movie depicts the protagonists taking the law into their own hands and resorting to violence to achieve justice. Plato would likely object to this as it could encourage viewers to emulate such behavior, undermining the rule of law and promoting moral chaos.

Conclusion :

While I understand and partially agree with Plato's concerns about the potential negative impact of art on society's morality and values, I believe that complete censorship is not the answer. Artistic freedom is crucial for personal expression, social critique, and cultural development. Instead of banning or censoring artistic works, a more balanced approach would be to promote media literacy and critical engagement with art, enabling individuals to discern and reflect on the messages conveyed by different forms of artistic expression. This approach respects the importance of artistic freedom while addressing the concerns about art's influence on society.

Thank you.