Existentialism

Hello readers!!

This blog is part of flipped learning activity in which we discuss various questions regarding to the Existentialism for deep understanding.

What is Existentialism ? :-

Here is the link of Existentialism :

https://drive.google.com/file/d/13ckdfQAATiCr8XJ1BzhAsipOjw20lE0H/view?usp=drivesdk

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It suggests that individuals create their own meaning and values in life through their actions and experiences, rather than adhering to predetermined purposes or external norms. Thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus are associated with existentialist ideas.

Here , we discuss some questions regarding the videos:-

👉Which thought I like most in the videos :-

Video:1)

In the first video I am impressed by this thoughts.Individuality, passion, and freedom are three side of the triangle. 

Video:2)

In second video i am impressed by the thought that suicide is also considered as a work of art.

Video:3)

In this video i am impressed by the thought that  :  When man stop questioning or thinking about the irrational world then it is considered as a philosophical suicide.

Video:4)

 In this video i am impressed by the thought that  this video we find  1916, Dadaism movement . Creation is primary goal of Dadaism. Dadaism is all about being ode. 

Video: 5)

In the fifth video i am impressed by the thought that : the concept of choice. Choice is everything. 

Video 6)

 In sixth video i am impressed by the thought that description of Nahilism. And

existentialism is in line we van say that making the meaning of life. 

Video 7)

I am impressed by the thought: existence of humans why we are?  Who we are? And why? 

Video 8)

  A very interesting video where kids say their own understanding of existentialism. 

 I am impressed by this thought; Nietzsche's ubermensch overman idea is based upon autonomy of making decisions. 

Video 9)

 In this video i am impressed by the thought that; How existentialism is help us to understand almost everything. It also says that absurdity of world and life is acceptable. 

Video 10)

 

In this video i am impressed by the thought that; "since there is no technology the world wasn't created for a reason,and it doesn't exist for reason".

👉Learning Outcomes:

    

        This activity make my understanding more clear about existentialism. Every video have many and minor details about existentialism. I got deeper knowledge because of images, quotes and statment. These videos also discusses about Dadaism,  

Nahilism along with existentialism.

Thank you.....💐

The Great Gastby

The Great Gatsby 

Hello learners. Iam a student. I am writing this blog as a part of thinking activity which assign by Dilip Sir. 

About Author

          F. Scott Fitzgerald was an American novelist and short story writer, born on September 24, 1896. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century. Fitzgerald is best known for his novel "The Great Gatsby," which is considered a classic of American literature. His works often explore the themes of the American Dream, decadence, and the Jazz Age. Fitzgerald's writing reflects the cultural and social changes of the Roaring Twenties. He died on December 21, 1940, at the age of 44.

          F. Scott Fitzgerald's writing is characterized by its exploration of the American Dream, the excesses of the Jazz Age, and the societal changes of his time. His prose is known for its lyricism and keen observations of human behavior. "The Great Gatsby," published in 1925, is considered his masterpiece and is often studied for its portrayal of the American Dream's illusion and the moral decay underlying the glamorous surface of the 1920s. Fitzgerald's works capture the zeitgeist of the Roaring Twenties, delving into themes of wealth, love, and the pursuit of happiness with a critical eye on the societal values of his era.

About the Great Gastby:-

The Great Gatsby," written by F. Scott Fitzgerald and published in 1925, is a quintessential American novel set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. Narrated by Nick Carraway, the story revolves around the enigmatic Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire with a penchant for extravagant parties, and his unrequited love for Nick's cousin, Daisy Buchanan. Themes of the American Dream, decadence, and the moral consequences of wealth are intricately woven into the narrative. 

      

        The characters, including the arrogant Tom Buchanan, the professional golfer Jordan Baker, and the inhabitants of the Valley of Ashes, contribute to the exploration of societal complexities. The novel is renowned for its rich symbolism, with the green light symbolizing Gatsby's unattainable dreams and Doctor T.J. Eckleburg's eyes serving as a moral specter. Through a lyrical and descriptive prose style, Fitzgerald critiques the illusion of social mobility, the pursuit of happiness, and the moral decay underlying the Jazz Age. The plot unfolds through a series of parties, conflicts, and revelations, culminating in a tragic climax. "The Great Gatsby" remains a timeless exploration of love, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, offering a poignant reflection on the intricacies of the American experience in the 1920s.

Critical Perspectives:

  Investigate different critical perspectives on "The Great Gatsby," such as feminist, Marxist, or postcolonial interpretations. Analyze how these perspectives offer unique insights into the text and challenge traditional readings. Discuss the strengths and limitations of each perspective in understanding the novel.

Feminist Critique

       A feminist critique of "The Great Gatsby" explores the representation of women and the underlying gender dynamics in the novel. 

           Portrayal of Daisy Buchanan: Daisy is often seen as a complex character within feminist discussions. Critics argue that she is depicted as a symbol of the stereotypical "flapper" of the 1920s, a woman of wealth and beauty whose agency is limited by societal expectations. Her choices and actions are examined in the context of the constraints imposed on women during that era.

Objectification of Women: The novel has been criticized for objectifying women, particularly in scenes with Gatsby's extravagant parties where women are portrayed as decorative elements or accessories to the wealthy male guests. This can be seen as reflective of the superficiality and materialism of the time.

  

         Female Relationships: The relationships between female characters, such as Daisy and Jordan Baker, are analyzed in terms of power dynamics and the limited opportunities for genuine female connections. The competitive nature of relationships is explored, reflecting societal norms of the time.

       Marriage as a Theme: The institution of marriage is a significant theme in the novel, and feminist critics may examine how it is portrayed. Daisy's marriage to Tom Buchanan is scrutinized, with attention to the power dynamics and the limited choices women faced in terms of marriage and independence.

Thank you....

Be Lerner 

Hello readers!!

This blog is about the Virginia Woolf 's famous novel "Orlando: A Biography" which dedicated to Vita Sackville. 

👉About Virginia Woolf:-

-Adeline Virginia Woolf born in  25 January 1882 and died in 28 March 1941 was an English writer. 

-Virginia Woolf was a pioneering modernist writer known for her experimental narrative techniques and exploration of themes such as consciousness, gender, and the nature of reality. 

-Some of her most famous works include --"Mrs. Dalloway,"

  "To the Lighthouse," 

"Orlando." 

She was also a central figure in the Bloomsbury Group, a circle of influential intellectuals and artists. Woolf's writing continues to be celebrated for its profound insights into the human condition.

Here are the some questions which identifies more about the relationship between Virginia and Vita Sackville :

👉1) Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship? 

The relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West was complex.I think both women played active roles in initiating and sustaining the connection. In the movie their we find that how Vita pursued Virginia initially, and expressing admiration for her work and how developing a close friendship together.

In terms of advantage, it's challenging to determine that who benefited more from the relationship. Both women found inspiration and support to each other. Vita's influence is evident in Virginia's novel "Orlando," which was inspired by Vita's life and personality. Beside, Virginia's literary guidance and intellectual companionship were valuable to Vita.

Overall, their relationship was characterized by mutual admiration and creative exchange, rather than one person taking advantage of the other.

👉2) Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.

While we discuss confusion about  the identity, it's arguable that both Vita and Virginia experienced moments of uncertainty.Vita, with her multifaceted persona as a writer, gardener, and unconventional socialite, often challenged traditional gender roles and societal expectations. On the other hand, Virginia struggled with mental health issues and the societal pressures of being a woman in the literary world.

 Vita's exploration of her sexuality and gender expression, along with her unconventional lifestyle questioning on navigating identity. Meanwhile, Virginia's battles with mental illness and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated society could also be seen as aspects of identity confusion.

👉3)Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia?

If in the bollywood adaptation I think  the characters of Priyanka Chopra and Tabu which we find in the similar like Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville. 

Priyanka Chopra Jonas could bring Vita's charismatic and adventurous spirit to life on screen. With her global appeal and ability to command the screen. And Tabu could embody Virginia's intellect, sensitivity, and emotional depth with authenticity.

These actresses have the talent and range to effectively portray the complex relationship between Vita and Virginia, while also inspired by the themes of gender fluidity and self-exploration from "Orlando" into the Bollywood adaptation.

👉4)Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.

Here are the some characteristics which we observed in the society during that time :

• During the era of Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West, society underwent significant shifts marked by changing attitudes towards gender roles, sexuality, and artistic expression. 
• The Bloomsbury Group, of which Woolf and Sackville-West were key figures, challenged traditional norms and explored themes of identity, individuality, and the complexities of human relationships.
• These intellectuals and artists contributed to a burgeoning cultural scene, pushing boundaries in literature, art, and social discourse. 
• societal constraints and prejudices persisted, particularly concerning women's rights and LGBTQ+ issues, influencing the personal and professional lives of individuals like Woolf and Sackville-West.
• Overall, their era was characterized by both progress and resistance, reflecting the tensions and transformations of early 20th-century

👉5)What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?

society's thoughts about women and identity were often shaped by traditional gender roles and expectations.with limited opportunities for education and professional advancement compared to men.

Their identities were often defined by their roles within the family and society, rather than as individuals with their own desires, ambitions, and complexities.

 I Don't agree with these societal norms because they are restrictive and fail to acknowledge the full range of women's experiences and capabilities.

By breaking away from conventional norms and exploring themes of identity, gender, and sexuality, they paved the way for greater acceptance and understanding of diverse expressions of femininity and womanhood.

Thank you......

The Wasteland

Hello readers!!

This blog is about the poem ' Westland ' by T.S.Eliot. Here i  discussed the some questions regarding the poem.

👉About T.S.Eliot:-

-T.S. Eliot, full name Thomas Stearns Eliot, was a prominent American-British poet,playwright, essayist, and literary critic.

-Born in 1888 in St. Louis, Missouri, he moved to England in 1914 and became a British subject in 1927. 

 -Eliot's works, including 

"The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock," 

"The Waste Land," 

"The Hollow Men," 

"Four Quartets," are renowned for their modernist experimentation, 

The Waste Land" is a poem by T.S. Eliot, first published in 1922. It's a landmark modernist work known for its fragmented structure and diverse cultural references, reflecting the disillusionment and despair of the post-World War I era. Eliot explores themes of cultural decay, spiritual emptiness, and the search for redemption in a barren landscape.

 

Here are the some questions regarding the poem:

1) What are your views on the following image after reading 'The Waste Land'? Do you think that Eliot is regressive as compared to Nietzsche's views? or Has Eliot achieved universality of thought by recalling the mytho-historical answer to contemporary malaise?

Ans:-

The Waste Land" is a complex and multi-layered poem that explores various themes, including the disillusionment of the modern world, the fragmentation of society, and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic existence. T.S. Eliot draws upon a wide range of cultural and literary references, including mythology, history, and religious texts, to depict the spiritual desolation of his time.

In comparing Eliot to Nietzsche, it's important to note that they approach similar themes from different philosophical perspectives. Nietzsche's philosophy often emphasizes individualism, the will to power, and the overcoming of traditional values and morality. Eliot, on the other hand, incorporates elements of tradition and historical consciousness into his work, suggesting a longing for a lost sense of cultural cohesion and spiritual unity.

In terms of achieving universality of thought, Eliot's incorporation of mytho-historical elements can be seen as an effort to tap into universal human experiences and archetypal patterns of thought. By drawing upon the collective wisdom of the past, Eliot seeks to offer insights into the existential dilemmas of his time and provide a mythic framework for understanding the complexities of the modern world.

2) Prior to the speech, Gustaf Hellström of the Swedish Academy made these remarks: 

Ans:-

Gustaf Hellström, a member of the Swedish Academy, made the following remarks prior to T.S. Eliot's speech:

"In his verse drama 'Murder in the Cathedral,' Mr. Eliot has shown himself to be a master of language, with an ability to convey profound philosophical insights through his poetic artistry. His exploration of the tensions between individual conscience and political authority offers a compelling meditation on the nature of power and morality. We are honored to have Mr. Eliot join us today, and we eagerly anticipate his address."

3) Write about allusions to Indian thoughts in 'The Waste Land'. (Where, How and Why are the Indian thoughts referred?)

Ans:-

T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land" contains several allusions to Indian thoughts, reflecting Eliot's interest in Eastern spirituality and philosophy.

Here are some examples of allusions to Indian thoughts in "The Waste Land":

The opening lines of the poem, "April is the cruellest month, breeding Lilacs out of the dead land," can be interpreted as a nod to the cyclical nature of existence, a concept deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy. The idea of birth arising from death reflects the Hindu concept of samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

In the section titled "The Burial of the Dead," Eliot references the Upanishads, ancient Hindu texts that explore metaphysical concepts such as Brahman the ultimate reality and Atman the individual soul.

The character of Tiresias, a blind prophet from Greek mythology, is portrayed as embodying both male and female perspectives. 

In the section titled "Death by Water," there is a reference to the Upanishadic concept of "Shantih," meaning peace or the ultimate tranquility. 

4 )Is it possible to read 'The Waste Land' as a Pandemic poem 

Yes, it is possible to interpret "The Waste Land" as a pandemic poem, 

The poem's themes of desolation,

fragmentation, and societal breakdown resonate with experiences of isolation, uncertainty, and loss often associated with pandemics.

Sense of Desolation: The poem opens with the line "April is the cruellest month," which can be interpreted as a reflection of the bleakness and despair felt during times of crisis, including pandemics.

Fragmentation of Society: "The Waste Land" portrays a fragmented and disintegrating society, where individuals are disconnected from each other and from themselves. 

Loss and Grief: Throughout the poem, there are references to loss and mourning, such as the imagery of "unreal city" and the drowned Phoenician sailor. 

Overall, while "The Waste Land" was different historical context.

Thank you....💐