Importance of Being Earnest: Oscar Wilde

This blog based on thinking activity assigned by Megha ma'am. 

Question : Wilde originally subtitled The Importance of Being Earnest “A Serious Comedy for Trivial People” but changed that to “A Trivial Comedy for Serious People.” What is the difference between the two subtitles?

Answer : 

Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde and full title is The Importance of Being Earnest : A Trivial Comedy for Serious People, published in 14 February, 1895. 

The first version, "A Serious Comedy for Trivial People," would suggest that the play offers important or deep insights, perhaps intended for those who might be frivolous or shallow. This might imply that Wilde is using the comedy to critique triviality itself.

However, by changing it to "A Trivial Comedy for Serious People," Wilde indicates that the play is light and humorous, yet meant for people who are often overly serious. This subtitle wittily captures the irony of Victorian society: it suggests that even serious people can find their values and habits trivial when viewed through a comedic lens. Wilde’s final choice reflects the play’s aim to humorously reveal the absurdity of rigid social norms and the importance placed on appearances, ultimately inviting even the “serious” to laugh at their own seriousness.

Question : Which of the female characters is the most attractive to you among Lady Augusta Bracknell, Gwendolen Fairfax, Cecily Cardew, and Miss Prism? Give your reasons for her being the most attractive among all.

Answet : 

Cecily Cardew is the most attractive as per my observation. She was very calm and innocence among all the felame characters in Importance of Being Earnest. She was attracted with the name of 'Ernest'. She got Ernest and then she married. Unlike the more rigid and socially conscious Gwendolen and Lady Bracknell, Cecily’s charm lies in her unfiltered, romantic nature, making her a refreshing and endearing figure in Wilde's satire.

Question : The play repeatedly mocks Victorian traditions and social customs, marriage, and the pursuit of love in particular. Through which situations and characters is this happening in the play?

Answer : 

The Importance of Being Earnest mocks Victorian traditions, especially around marriage and love, through several situations and characters:

1. Lady Bracknell's Criteria for Suitors: Lady Bracknell represents the rigid, materialistic Victorian values, particularly in marriage. She interviews Jack to ensure he has the proper social standing, wealth, and family background to marry Gwendolen. Her rejection of him for his unknown parentage mocks the superficial criteria for marriage.

2. Gwendolen and Cecily’s Obsession with the Name "Ernest": Both Gwendolen and Cecily insist they can only love a man named “Ernest,” valuing a name over character or integrity. This reflects the trivial reasons people in society may choose partners, ridiculing the Victorian emphasis on appearances and reputation.

3. The Men’s "Bunburying": Jack and Algernon create fictional personas to escape social obligations and pursue their romantic interests freely. This double life satirizes the repressive nature of Victorian society and the lengths people go to in order to break free from it.

4. Miss Prism's Romantic Interest in Dr. Chasuble: Miss Prism, a governess who represents moral values and education, flirtatiously pursues Dr. Chasuble, a clergyman. This pairing humorously reveals the natural human desires often suppressed under Victorian social expectations.

Conclusion : 

Through these characters and situations, Wilde exposes the hypocrisy, superficiality, and absurdity of Victorian customs, particularly around love and marriage.

Question : Queer scholars have argued that the play's themes of duplicity and ambivalence are inextricably bound up with Wilde's homosexuality and that the play exhibits a "flickering presence-absence of… homosexual desire" Do you agree with this observation? Give your arguments to justify your stance.

Answer : 

Yes, I agree with this observation. The Importance of Being Earnest reflects themes of hidden identities, secrecy, and double lives that connect with Wilde’s experience as a gay man in a restrictive society.

1. Double Lives: Jack and Algernon each lead double lives to escape social rules. This reflects how queer individuals, including Wilde, often had to hide their true selves to fit in, maintaining a public image while keeping parts of their lives secret.

2. Identity and “Ernest”: The name “Ernest” (or "earnest") becomes a symbol for being true to oneself. Both Jack and Algernon adopt the name to fulfill their desires, reflecting how people might mask or change their identities in a world that doesn’t fully accept them.

3. Marriage as a Social Act: Wilde mocks marriage as a superficial arrangement focused on status, not love. This challenges traditional, rigid views of marriage and hints at a critique of its narrow, heteronormative nature.

4. Camp Humor: Wilde uses exaggerated humor and irony to critique social norms, adding a layer of subtle rebellion. This playful style, or “camp,” is often associated with queer culture, using humor to question serious issues indirectly.

Conclusion :

Through these elements, Wilde weaves themes of hidden desire and double lives into his comedy, indirectly questioning Victorian norms and hinting at queer experiences without directly stating them.

Youth Festival - 2024

 Bhav Spandan Yuvak Mahotsav - 2024

Greetings! As per the tradition of every year, this year's Youth Festival was held in Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University from the 16th to the 19th of October, starting with Kalayarta and concluding with the closing ceremony. This year, it was named the Bhav-spandan Youth Festival 2024. 

This blog based on sharing our experience of the youth festival task assigned by Dilip Barad sir. 

Kalayatra : 16th October

I participated in two events all of them in Kalayatra and another was Skit. Our topic was "Condition of Education" for the Kalayatra. In which  we included the poverty, social media, politics etc. Kalayatra started from the Shamaldas Arts College and eneded at Swaminarayan College. 

The next day, various competitions began following the opening ceremony, where Kusum Sarvaiya and Jay Vaghani were part of the prayer group. 

Quiz Competition : 17th October

Mimicry : 17th October

Essay Writing : 17th October

Skit : 17th October

On that day we had Skit competition and we were super excited for that. Our Skit based on rape cases, unemployment, workload, stress, worst education system. This Skit was prepared by Alpa ma'am. 

Installation : 17th October

In which topic was Happiness, worshiping and Accident. 

Bhajan : 17th October 

On the spot Drawing: 17th October 

In which topic was College Campus, Garden and Festival Crlebration.

Mono Act : 18th October 

Elocution: 18th October 

In which topic was આત્મહત્યા એ ઉપાય ખરો?, પરીક્ષા અને મારું ગુજરાત.

Clay Modeling : 18th October 

In which topic was રમતવીર, પ્રકૃતિ પ્રેમી, વાત્સલ્ય.

 

Cartooning: 18th October 

Rangoli : 18th October 

Folk Song : 18th October 

Poetry Recitation: 18th October 

Our Volunteers : 

Group Photos : 

Thank you! 

 Pride and Prejudice : Jane Austen

Jane Austen : Was born on 16 December,1775 and died on 18 July,1817. Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six novels, which implicitly interpret, critique, and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Austen known for her famous six novels among them the highly adapted Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility. 

Question :  Compare the narrative strategy of the novel and movie.

Answer : 

When comparing the narrative strategies of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and its various film adaptations, several key differences emerge:

Narrative Voice :

• Novel: Austen employs a third-person omniscient narrator, providing insight into the characters' thoughts and motivations. This allows for a rich, nuanced exploration of themes such as class, marriage, and morality.
• Film: Most adaptations, such as the 2005 version directed by Joe Wright, rely on visual storytelling and dialogue to convey character emotions and relationships. Internal monologues are often replaced with visual cues and expressions, which can alter the depth of character development.

Character Development :

• Novel: Characters like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are explored through their internal conflicts and social commentary. Readers gain access to their thoughts, making their growth and eventual understanding of each other more profound.
• Film: Character development is shown through actions and interactions, often condensing plot points. For instance, the 2005 film emphasizes visual chemistry between Elizabeth and Darcy, sometimes sacrificing the subtleties of their personal transformations.

Structure and Pacing :

• Novel: The structure is episodic, allowing for a leisurely exploration of social events and character dynamics. The pacing can be slower, providing space for reflection and wit.
• Film: Films often compress the narrative for pacing, focusing on key plot points and romantic tension. This can result in a faster narrative that highlights action over introspection.

Themes and Emphasis :

• Novel: Themes of social class, individual agency, and the role of women are intricately woven into the narrative, often expressed through irony and wit.
• Film: While adaptations strive to retain these themes, they may emphasize romance and visual spectacle. For example, the 2005 film uses lush cinematography to enhance the romantic elements, sometimes at the expense of the novel's satirical tone.

Conclusion :

In summary, while the novel offers a detailed and introspective narrative rich in social commentary, film adaptations often prioritize visual storytelling and romantic tension. This leads to differing interpretations of characters and themes, shaping the audience's experience in unique ways.

Question :  Write an illustration of the society of Jane Austen's time. 

Answer : 

in jane Austen's time there were so many problems. women's role, class system is going on in the society. 

• The importance of marriage: Marriage was seen as a necessity for women, both for financial security and social status. It was often a strategic alliance between families, rather than a romantic union.

• The role of women: Women had limited rights and opportunities, and their primary role was to find a husband and manage a household. However, some women, like Elizabeth Bennet, challenged societal expectations and pursued their own desires.

• The class system: English society was strictly hierarchical, with the aristocracy at the top, followed by the gentry and the middle and working classes. Social mobility was limited, and class distinctions were carefully maintained.

• The pursuit of pleasure: Despite the challenges of the era, the wealthy classes pursued pleasure and leisure activities, such as attending balls, picnics, and theatrical performances.

• The influence of literature: Literature played a significant role in shaping Regency culture, with authors like Jane Austen and Sir Walter Scott exploring themes of love, marriage, and social class.

Austen's novels offer a unique glimpse into Regency society, capturing both its superficial elegance and its underlying tensions and contradictions. By exploring the lives of characters from different social classes, Austen provides a nuanced and insightful portrayal of the era.

Question :   What if Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth never got together? What if Lydia's elopement had a different outcome?  Explore the consequences of these changes and write alternative endings to the novel.

Answer : 

 If Darcy and Elizabeth had never found love, the world of Pride and Prejudice would have been significantly altered. Their relationship was crucial for personal growth, social change, and enduring love. Without them, the story's characters and the Regency era itself might have taken a very different path.

• Personal Growth: Darcy and Elizabeth's relationship was instrumental in their personal growth. Without it, they may have remained trapped in their pride and prejudice.

• Social Change: Their union challenged societal norms and could have paved the way for greater social mobility and acceptance.

• Enduring Love: Their love story is a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative nature of true love.

• Far-Reaching Consequences: The absence of their relationship would have had significant consequences for both them and the people around them.

• Missed Opportunities: Without Darcy and Elizabeth, the characters and the Regency era itself might have missed opportunities for growth and change.

What if Lydia's elopement had a different outcome?

If Lydia's elopement had a different outcome, several key scenarios could unfold:

1. Caught Before Marriage: The scandal could deepen the Bennet family's disgrace, prompting Mr. Bennet to become more protective of his other daughters and pushing them toward advantageous marriages.

2. Successful Elopement Without Marriage: This could lead to long-lasting shame for the Bennet family, increasing pressure on Jane and Elizabeth to secure good marriages despite the tarnished reputation.

3. Wickham as More Honorable: If Wickham genuinely loved Lydia and sought to improve his situation before marrying her, it could redeem his character and change the family's view of him, potentially strengthening the sisters' bonds.

Any of these outcomes would dramatically alter the social dynamics and marriage prospects for the Bennet family.

Explore the consequences of these changes and write alternative endings to the novel.

Here are three simple alternative endings based on Lydia's different outcomes:

1. Caught Before Marriage

Ending: Lydia returns home in shame. Mr. Bennet becomes protective, but Jane still marries Bingley. Elizabeth, inspired by her family’s struggles, accepts Darcy’s earlier proposal, and they work together to restore the Bennet family’s reputation.

2. Successful Elopement Without Marriage

Ending: Lydia and Wickham live in disgrace, making it hard for Jane and Elizabeth to find suitors. However, Elizabeth decides to marry Darcy, who helps the family regain some respect, while Lydia faces the consequences of her actions alone.

3. Wickham as More Honorable

Ending: Wickham genuinely loves Lydia and seeks a respectable job before marrying her. The Bennet family slowly accepts their union, while Jane marries Bingley and Elizabeth finds happiness with Darcy, all working together for a brighter future.

Thank You !

Frnakenstein by Mary Shelley :

 Frankenstein by Mary Shelley : 

This blog assigned by Megha ma'am as a part of thinking activity. Frankenstein is novel published in 1818. 

Question : What are some major differences between the movie and the novel Frankenstein?

Answer : 

Frankenstein novel by Mary Shelley(1818) and Frankenstein movie by Kennath Branagh (1994). there is many difference between the original novel and movie such as, characters, tones. themes point, plot and etc. now we explored the all things step by step. 

1. Characterization:

• The Creature: In the novel, the creature is more complex and sympathetic, longing for companionship and driven to violence primarily due to rejection and isolation. The 1994 film portrays him as a more straightforward, monstrous villain, emphasizing his physical appearance and violent tendencies.

• Victor Frankenstein: The novel presents Victor as a tragic figure, consumed by his ambition and guilt. In the 1994 film, he is depicted as a more arrogant and driven character, with a focus on his scientific obsession.

2. Themes:

• Isolation and Rejection: The novel delves deeper into the themes of isolation, prejudice, and societal rejection faced by the creature. The 1994 film simplifies these themes, focusing more on the horror and spectacle associated with the creature's creation.

• The Dangers of Science: The novel explores the ethical implications of scientific pursuit and the potential consequences of playing God. The 1994 film emphasizes the horror and spectacle associated with the creature's creation, but also touches on the dangers of unchecked ambition.

3. Plot:

• The Creature's Story: The novel devotes significant time to the creature's perspective and his experiences. The 1994 film condenses or omits parts of his story to focus on the horror elements and the relationship between Victor and the creature.

Conclusion : 

These are just a few of the key differences between the novel and film versions of Frankenstein. It's important to note that there are many adaptations of the story, and each one may have its own unique interpretation and emphasis.

Question : Who do you think is a real monster?

Answer : 

The real villain of Frankenstein is not the creature despite his appearance and evil deeds. The real monster and antagonist of the novel is Victor, his creator. He first gives life to the beast pretending himself to be a God. Then, he abandons him, neither killing him nor teaching him the correct life principles.

Question : Do you think the search for knowledge is dangerous and destructive?

Answer : 

Frankenstein is filled with several different elements of the Gothic and Romantic Movement of British literature, and is considered to be one of the earliest forms of science fiction. Frankenstein is a very complicated and complex story that challenges different ethics and morals on the apparent theme of dangerous knowledge.

In the novel Frankenstein, Mary Shelley considers knowledge as a “dangerous” factor. The danger of it is proved throughout the actions of the characters Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein, and the creature. The characters all embody the theme of knowledge in different ways. Shelley supports her opinion about knowledge by using references from the Bible and Paradise Lost. She uses these references to show the relationship between God’s Adam and Frankenstein’s creature, and how nothing turns out as great as God’s creation. Mary Shelley’s goal is to teach a lesson on how destructive the desire for knowledge really is.

Question : Do you think Victor Frankenstein's creature was inherently evil, or did society's rejection and mistreatment turn him into a monster?

Answer : 

The creature in "Frankenstein" can be seen as inherently evil due to his violent action. The creature is not inherently evil; rather, his transformation into a monster is primarily a result of society's rejection and mistreatment. Initially, he seeks love and acceptance but is met with fear and hostility due to his appearance. This rejection leads him to despair and ultimately to revenge against Victor Frankenstein and humanity.

Question:  Should there be limits on scientific exploration? If so, what should those limits be?

Answer : 

Yes, limits on scientific exploration are necessary to ensure ethical practices, protect human and animal rights, and safeguard the environment. Key areas for these limits include:

1. Ethics: Respect for human and animal rights in research.

2. Environmental Protection: Avoiding harm to ecosystems and biodiversity.

3. Technology and Genetics: Regulating genetic engineering and AI to prevent misuse.

4. Safety and Security: Monitoring research that could be used for harmful purposes.

5. Public Involvement: Engaging the community in discussions and ensuring oversight.

Conclusion : 

In summary, setting limits helps promote responsible and beneficial scientific advancement.

Here i upload the pictures of our movie screening of Frankenstein.

Thank you ! 

Rape of the Lock :

 Rape of the Lock : Alexander Pope

Question : Analyze Pope's “The Rape of the Lock” as a Social Satire.

Answer :  

Introduction : 

Alexander Pope's The Rape of the Lock is a masterful example of social satire, a literary genre that uses humor and irony to critique societal norms, customs, and behaviors. The poem, written in heroic couplets, satirizes the frivolous and superficial world of high society in early 18th-century England.

Key Satirical Elements in "The Rape of the Lock"

1. Exaggeration: Pope exaggerates the trivial nature of the events depicted, such as the dispute over a lock of hair. This exaggeration highlights the absurdity of the characters' concerns and priorities.

1. Mock-Heroic Style: The poem employs the mock-heroic style, treating the petty squabbles of high society as if they were epic battles and heroic deeds. This contrast between the grandiose language and the trivial subject matter creates a satirical effect.

1. Character Satire: Pope satirizes the characters of the poem, particularly Belinda and Baron, who are portrayed as vain, self-centered, and obsessed with appearances. Their behavior is presented as ridiculous and exaggerated.

1. Social Commentary: The poem offers a critique of the superficiality and materialism of high society. Pope suggests that people are more concerned with appearances and social status than with genuine human connection or meaningful pursuits.

1. Gender Roles: The poem also satirizes the limited roles available to women in the 18th century. Belinda is portrayed as a passive object of desire, subject to the whims of men. This portrayal is a subtle critique of the patriarchal society of the time.

The Significance of Satire in "The Rape of the Lock"

Pope's use of satire in The Rape of the Lock serves several purposes:

• Social Critique: By satirizing the excesses of high society, Pope offers a critique of the values and behaviors of his contemporaries.

• Humor: The poem is also a witty and entertaining work of literature, using humor to engage readers and make a serious point.

• Moral Commentary: While the poem is primarily a satire, it also contains a moral message. Pope suggests that excessive vanity and materialism can lead to conflict and unhappiness.

Conclusion : 

In conclusion, The Rape of the Lock is a brilliant example of social satire, offering a witty and insightful commentary on the superficiality and materialism of early 18th-century high society. Through exaggeration, mock-heroic style, and character satire, Pope exposes the absurdity of the world he is describing and invites readers to consider the consequences of such frivolous pursuits. 

Question : How does Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock" exemplify characteristics of the mock-heroic epic, and in what ways does it differ from traditional heroic epics? Discuss the techniques Pope uses to create satire and commentary through this work.

Answer : 

Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock" is a prime example of a mock-heroic epic, utilizing the conventions of traditional epic poetry to satirize the trivial concerns of high society. While classic epics focus on grand themes like heroism, war, and moral dilemmas, Pope instead centers his narrative on a petty dispute over a stolen lock of hair. This shift in subject matter highlights the absurdity of the characters’ priorities, who engage in exaggerated and elevated language, treating the trivial event with the seriousness of a monumental battle. For instance, the lock is referred to as a "sacred relic," elevating its status in a humorous way.

Pope employs techniques such as irony and hyperbole throughout the poem, comparing the characters’ social skirmishes to epic confrontations, which emphasizes the ridiculousness of their behavior. He personifies abstract concepts like "Honor" and "Love," giving them exaggerated characteristics that critique the superficiality of social interactions. Additionally, Pope mocks the elaborate rituals of the upper class, describing card games and tea parties with the gravity of a war, thereby underscoring their emptiness. Ultimately, "The Rape of the Lock" serves as a sharp commentary on the vanity and trivial pursuits of aristocratic life, inviting readers to reflect on the absurdity of societal norms. Through its playful tone and clever satire, the poem cleverly transforms a minor social issue into a profound critique of human behavior and social values.

Question : Discuss Pope's attitude towards Religion and Morality as reflected in The Rape of the Lock.

Answer :  

Introduction : 

Alexander Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock” is perhaps not the most obvious place to turn for an understanding of religious culture in early 18th-century England, but the poem is full of moral questions about religious life and values. 

An initial jab at Protestant hypocrisy can be found in the Canto I catalogue of the items involved in Belinda’s grooming routine. The list of items on Belinda’s dressing table casually mixes items required for her “toilet” (the process of getting ready to go to court) with those of religious significance—“Puffs, powders, patches, bibles, billet-doux.” Here the Bible, the text of absolute moral authority, is mixed in with trivial items such as makeup and love letters, items associated with Belinda’s own vanity rather than serious moral contemplation. This suggests how little importance is afforded to spiritual questions by ladies like Belinda, a playful indictment of the moral bankruptcy of the vanity of the Protestant upper classes.

Religion and Morality : 

Satirical Treatment of Religion: Pope uses religion to satirize the superficiality of characters. Religious practices are reduced to empty rituals and social posturing. Belinda's connection to Diana (goddess of the hunt and chastity) is superficial.

Morality and Social Expectations: The poem satirizes societal expectations of morality and behavior. The theft of a lock of hair becomes a major conflict, highlighting the importance of appearances. The poem critiques the superficiality and vanity of high society.

Conclusion : 

In conclusion, Pope's attitude towards religion and morality in The Rape of the Lock is one of satire and criticism. He uses these themes to expose the superficiality and hypocrisy of the characters and the society they inhabit. While the poem does not offer a serious exploration of religious or moral themes, it does serve as a biting commentary on the human tendency to prioritize the superficial over the substantive.

Question : How does Clarissa emerge as the poet's voice in the fifth canto of The Rape of the Lock? Compare her with Belinda and reflect on Pope's portrayal of the two sides of female sensibility.

Answer : 

Introduction : 

In the fifth canto of Alexander Pope's The Rape of the Lock, Clarissa emerges as a significant voice, contrasting sharply with Belinda and embodying a more reasoned and reflective aspect of female sensibility. While Belinda is often portrayed as frivolous and preoccupied with her beauty and social standing, Clarissa serves as a voice of wisdom and moral clarity.

Clarissa’s Role in the Fifth Canto :

In the fifth canto of The Rape of the Lock, Clarissa emerges as a significant voice of reason. Her speech calls for dignity and moderation, emphasizing that true value lies in moral integrity rather than superficial concerns. Clarissa critiques the obsession with honor and reputation, advocating for a higher understanding of female virtue. This moment positions her as a moral compass in the chaos surrounding the dispute, suggesting that the true worth of a woman transcends societal expectations.

Belinda’s Characterization :

Belinda, in contrast, embodies beauty and vanity, deeply concerned with her appearance and social status. Her character is portrayed as charming but also superficial, focused on the rituals of high society. When the Baron cuts off her lock of hair, it represents a loss of her beauty and a violation of her identity. Belinda’s emotional response highlights her attachment to these societal values, showing how they shape her identity and sense of self-worth.

Contrast in Female Sensibility : 

The differences between Clarissa and Belinda illustrate two facets of female sensibility. Clarissa represents a more introspective, rational approach, advocating for moral strength and inner character. In contrast, Belinda embodies the societal pressures that prioritize external beauty and charm. This juxtaposition invites readers to reflect on the complexities of femininity, emphasizing that true empowerment comes from character rather than adherence to societal norms.

Conclusion :

Overall, the fifth canto of The Rape of the Lock presents a rich exploration of female identity and societal expectations through the characters of Clarissa and Belinda. Pope’s portrayal encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities of femininity, advocating for the importance of moral strength and character over superficial charm. This contrast not only enhances the narrative but also serves as a critique of the cultural values of his time.

References : 

  Department of English MKBU. (2022, August 14). The RAPE OF THE lOCK.pptx [Slide show]. SlideShare. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-rape-of-the-lockpptx/252544792

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (2024, October 4). The Rape of the Lock | Mock Epic, Satire, Caricature. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Rape-of-the-Lock

 The Rape of the Lock Study Guide | Literature Guide | LitCharts. (n.d.). LitCharts. https://www.litcharts.com/lit/the-rape-of-the-lock

 

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