Tuesday, December 24, 2019

The Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood - 1317 Words

Power: a simple five-letter word with numerous definitions. Power a noun. Power meaning the ability or right to control people or things (â€Å"Power†). Throughout the history of human existence it has been human nature to crave and want power. The feeling of being in control and not having to answer to anybody is an indescribable feeling. But being in power can also lead to undesirable decisions. In the 19th century, Lord Acton a British historian said â€Å"Power tends to corrupt, absolute power corrupts absolutely†. In The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, readers are exposed to a dystopic novel where individuals use the influence of their societal roles to manipulate others. There is no coincidence that Atwood’s novel can be considered a speculative fiction. Nor is it a coincidence that The Handmaid’s Tale is still relevant today. Abuse of power is relevant in not only Atwood’s novel, but also present in numerous societies today across the globe. In the novel due to low reproductive rates, fertile females known as Handmaid’s are assigned to households where couples are having trouble conceiving a child. Offred who is a Handmaid is assigned to the household of The Commander; who is at the near top of Gilead’s hierarchical society. It is the very Commander who initiates a forbidden hidden relationship that violates the rules of the society, with Offred in the novel. The Commander at the very start of Offred’s placement is able to use his power to intimidate her before theShow MoreRelatedThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1357 Words   |  6 PagesOxford definition: â€Å"the advocacy of women s rights on the ground of the equality of the sexes† (Oxford dictionary). In the novel The Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood explores feminism through the themes of women’s bodies as political tools, the dynamics of rape culture and the society of complacency. Margaret Atwood was born in 1939, at the beginning of WWII, growing up in a time of fear. In the autumn of 1984, when she began writing The Handmaid’s Tale, she was living in West Berlin. The BerlinRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1249 Words   |  5 PagesDystopian Research Essay: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood In the words of Erika Gottlieb With control of the past comes domination of the future. A dystopia reflects and discusses major tendencies in contemporary society. The Handmaid s Tale is a dystopian novel written by Margaret Atwood in 1985. The novel follows its protagonist Offred as she lives in a society focused on physical and spiritual oppression of the female identity. Within The Handmaid s Tale it is evident that through the explorationRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1060 Words   |  5 Pagesideologies that select groups of people are to be subjugated. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood plays on this idea dramatically: the novel describes the oppression of women in a totalitarian theocracy. Stripped of rights, fertile women become sex objects for the politically elite. These women, called the Handmaids, are forced to cover themselves and exist for the sole purpose of providing children. The Handmaid’s Tale highlights the issue of sexism while also providing a cruel insight into theRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1659 Words   |  7 Pagesbook The Handmaid s Tale by Margaret Atwood, the foremost theme is identity, due to the fact that the city where the entire novel takes place in, the city known as the Republic of Gilead, often shortened to Gilead, strips fertile women of their identities. Gilead is a society that demands the women who are able to have offspring be stripped of all the identity and rights. By demeaning these women, they no longer view themselves as an individual, but rather as a group- the group of Handmaids. It isRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1237 Words   |  5 Pages The display of a dystopian society is distinctively shown in The Handmaid’s Tale, by Margaret Atwood. Featuring the Republic of Gilead, women are categorized by their differing statuses and readers get an insight into this twisted society through the lenses of the narrator; Offred. Categorized as a handmaid, Offred’s sole purpose in living is to simply and continuously play the role of a child-bearing vessel. That being the case, there is a persistent notion that is relatively brought up by thoseRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1548 Words   |  7 PagesIn Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, The theme of gender, sexuality, and desire reigns throughout the novel as it follows the life of Offred and other characters. Attwood begins the novel with Offred, a first person narrator who feels as if she is misplaced when she is describing her sleeping scenery at the decaying school gymnasium. The narrator, Offred, explains how for her job she is assigned to a married Commander’s house where she is obligated to have sex with him on a daily basis, so thatRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale, By Margaret Atwood1629 Words   |  7 Pages Atwood s novel, The Handmaid s Tale depicts a not too futuristic society of Gilead, a society that overthrows the U.S. Government and institutes a totalitarian regime that seems to persecute women specifically. Told from the main character s point of view, Offred, explains the Gilead regime and its patriarchal views on some women, known as the handmaids, to a purely procreational function. The story is set the present tense in Gilead but frequently shifts to flashbacks in her time at the RedRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1256 Words   |  6 Pageshappened to Jews in Germany, slaves during Christopher Columbus’s days, slaves in the early 1900s in America, etc. When people systematically oppress one another, it leads to internal oppression of the oppressed. This is evident in Margaret Atwood’s book, The Handmaid’s Tale. This dystopian fiction book is about a young girl, Offred, who lives in Gilead, a dystopian society. Radical feminists complained about their old lifestyles, so in Gilead laws and rules are much different. For example, men cannotRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1540 Words   |  7 Pages Name: Nicole. Zeng Assignment: Summative written essay Date:11 May, 2015. Teacher: Dr. Strong. Handmaid’s Tale The literary masterpiece The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, is a story not unlike a cold fire; hope peeking through the miserable and meaningless world in which the protagonist gets trapped. The society depicts the discrimination towards femininity, blaming women for their low birth rate and taking away the right from the females to be educated ,forbidding them from readingRead MoreThe Handmaid s Tale By Margaret Atwood1667 Words   |  7 Pagesrhetorical devices and figurative language, that he or she is using. The Handmaid’s Tale, which is written by Margaret Atwood, is the novel that the author uses several different devices and techniques to convey her attitude and her points of view by running the story with a narrator Offred, whose social status in the Republic of Gilead is Handmaid and who is belongings of the Commander. Atwood creates her novel The Handmaid’s Tale to be more powerful tones by using imagery to make a visibleness, hyperbole

Monday, December 16, 2019

North American Civilization Free Essays

North American Civilization Elizabeth Smith HIS 115 North American civilization began about 35,000 years ago in the time of the last ice age. A large land mass connecting Eurasia and Alaska brought the first Native American ancestors into North America. As the Ice Age ended, the sea levels rose, submerging the land bridge into the Ocean, thus leaving the ancestors of the Native Americans deserted on a remote continent. We will write a custom essay sample on North American Civilization or any similar topic only for you Order Now After crossing the land bridge, the Native Americans increased and shaped a mixture of cultures and several civilizations. Early North American Cultures The route from Siberia to Alaska led the first descendants as well as animals to this new land. Over many years, settlement broadened throughout America, Central, and South America of the first inhabitants (Axia College, 2010). These early American’s were nomadic. Hunting and gathering as the main source of surviving is how the first American civilizations grew and adapted to the land. The cultures of early Americans grew vastly, learning economic, social, and political skills. Early Americans adapted to the land by hunting the terrain and the water. Animals became a major source of food as well as fish and other aquatic organisms. Native Americans had to adapt to the environment to strengthen their civilization. Many families organized male members to hunt and gather food to share with the neighboring settlements. Women also contributed to society. Agriculture dominated the role of the women. Planting, harvesting, and other domestic roles helped settlements to grow and flourish in their environments. Advancements in agriculture of Mesoamerica strengthened civilizations of many early Americans such as the Mayas and the Aztecs (Axia College, 2010). Cities developed, small villages, many languages, and cultures evolved through economic, religious, and political advancements. Essentially, an empire formed through the efforts of early civilizations; however, new exploration from Europe would soon expand North American civilization. Changes in European society fueled the need to discover new and vast lands. This great conquest began with the Portuguese in the forefront of discovery. The Portuguese created much advancement in shipbuilding, which helped with successful voyages into the Atlantic Ocean (Axia College, 2010). The voyages led to the discovery of Newfoundland as well as a new trade route along the African and Asian coasts. During this time, Europeans were eager to explore new routes for trade, as well as the possibility to expand land opportunities (Axia College, 2010). With the advancement of technology, economics, and political evolution, Europeans were eager to discover new lands for expansion. Factors such as overpopulation, religion, and government politics were creating situations for Europeans to explore the possibilities of transatlantic expansionism (Axia College, 2010). Spain dominated the first efforts of exploration and colonization. Explorers such as Christopher Columbus, Hernando Cortez, and the Pizarro brothers, were the first to discover the new land of the America’s. As the Spanish continued to explore the civilizations of the Mayas and the Aztecs became dominated and conquered. Spanish colonization was easily established due to the diseases brought to the land, the Native Americans could not adapt to such sicknesses and therefore, the Spanish conquered Central and South America (Axia College, 2010). An Empire created, the Spanish soon convinced other Europeans to expand to settlement of the Americas. English expansionism became top priority of Queen Elizabeth I. English merchants, politicians, and reformation encouraged expansion and colonization of America. Many efforts took place; however, English colonization did not occur until the later in the fifteenth century. Over a span of many of thousands of years, settlers of America migrated, adapted, and flourished with great societies. Early Americans traveled to the continent through the land bridge, forming an environment that flourished with great economic, political, and religious advancements. With new, land discoveries, the Spanish, Portuguese, and English colonized and explored the America’s with the ambition to produce new wealth, land, and religious freedoms from their own lands, thus expanding and colonizing across the Atlantic. Gutierrez Map How and where are Native Americans presented on this map? Native Americans are presented on this map along the coasts of the Americas. Some were given descriptions of being cannibals, other societies were reflected as wealthy with temples and other riches, and others reflected the types of animals that inhabited the land. How might have the map’s indication of where Native Americans lived strengthen European claims of sovereignty? The map’s indication of Native American societies strengthened the European claims of sovereignty through its imperial claims. What do the Spanish and French coats of arms in the upper left hand corner of the map represent? The Spanish and French coat of arms in the upper left hand corner of the map represents the treaties of Cateau Cambresis signed between Spain, France, France, and England in 1559, which brought peace to Europe. What does the Portuguese coat of arms in the lower right corner of the map represent? The Portuguese coat of arms in the lower right corner of the map represents Portugal’s fleet off the Coast of Africa, which is dominating the southern Atlantic. Reference Axia College. (2010). Week One Overview. Retrieved February 21, 2010, from Axia College, Week One, rEsource. HIS115—U. S. History to 1865 Course Website. 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Sunday, December 8, 2019

BABY FACE NELSON DEADLIFE IN REVIEW Essay Example For Students

BABY FACE NELSON DEAD:LIFE IN REVIEW Essay BABY FACE NELSON DEAD: LIFE IN REVIEWBaby Face Nelsons shredded body was discovered today, lying naked in a ditch near Niles, Illinois, after a deadly encounter with 2 FBI agents yesterday, November 27,1934. The FBI agents, Sam Cowley and Herman Hollis, were also tragically killed in the crossfire. Baby Face Nelson, real name was Lester M. Gillis. He went by many other aliases such as George Nelson, Alex Gillis, and Big George. He grew up with the Chicago street gangs, which is where his gang members named him Baby Face Nelson, despite the fact that he hated it. By the age of 14 he was stealing cars. In his teens he took part in stealing tires, running stills, bootlegging, and armed robbery. In 1922, he was committed to a boys home for auto theft. Two years later he was released on parole, but returned in 5 months for a similar charge. He meet Helen Wawzynak in 1928, and later married her. In January of 1931 he robbed a bank in Chicago, Illinois, and was sent to prison for one year t o life. He escaped and came to Sausalito, California. There he met John Paul Chase. Nelson worked with Chase as an armed guard for the truck used to transport illegal liquor. Together, they moved to Reno, Nevada, where Nelson had killed a person for being a witness to the United States mail fraud case. In 1933 Nelson, and his new friends, Tommy Carrol and Eddie Green robbed banks in Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. Most of the blame for these went to Dillanger and his gang. A year later Dillanger joined gangs with Nelson. On March 4,1934, Nelson got in a car accident which was his fault. The other driver got out of his car and started to yell at Nelson, who pulled out his gun and shot the driver three times in the head, and then sped off. Two days later the Dillenger- Gillis gang robbed a bank in Sioux City, South Dakota. The very next day, he robbed another bank in Mason City, Iowa, killing one employee and leaving with $52,000. On April 22,dozens of FBI agents surrounded the Little Bohemia lodge in Northern Wisconsin, where Nelson and his gang were staying. Each of the gang members escaped except for Baby Face Nelson, who stayed to shoot it out with the agents. The FBI, in trying to shoot Nelson, accidentally killed 1 innocent bystander and injured 2 others. Nelson, escaped through the back of the hotel. As he was escaping, he came across two state troopers and an FBI agent. He stuck his gun through the window and said, I need your car. I understand you guys wear bullet proof vests, so Im going to shoot low. He then killed the FBI agent, and injured the other two. After escaping, he hid out in an Indian Reservation. Nelson then became Public enemy number one. Then on November 27,1934, two FBI agents, Cowley and Hollis spotted Nelsons car, along a country road near Fox River Grove, Illinois. In the car was his wife, Helen Gillis, and John Paul Chase, his best friend and a fellow gangster. They began a wild chase with bullets flying in both directions. Nelson then stopped the car just outside of Barrington, and Helen ran to a nearby field to hide. Nelson was carrying a machine gun and his partner Chase with a BAR. Hollis crouched behind the car with a shotgun and Cowly threw himself into a ditch carrying a machine gun. Nearby construction workers dropped to the floor, as the agents and Nelson began to fire. After several minutes of shooting, Nelson dropped his gun to his side and started to walk towards the two agents, while being shot at. I never seen nothing like it, explained one of the witnesses. That fellow (Nelson) just came right a-coming at them two lawmen and they must a hit im plenty a times, but nothin was gonna stop that fellow . Actually it was 17 times that Nelson was struck, but he continued to steal the FBI car and back it up to his wife and Chase. He then said to Chase, Youll have to drive. Ive been hit. They dumped his body 20 miles away, and stripped it so that it could not be easily identified. .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 , .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .postImageUrl , .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 , .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:hover , .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:visited , .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:active { border:0!important; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:active , .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267 .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u63391254f302a29a47f3fa6200d0a267:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: The Sound Of Ghostface Killah Shattering Preconceived Notions Of Art And The Modern Aesthetic EssayJohn Paul Chase will serve time in the state penitentiary, and Helen Gillis will spend a year in the Madison, Wisconsin, womens prison. As for Lester M. Gillis, also know as Baby Face Nelson, he received the greatest punishment of all: Death.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

The Breakdown of Indigenous Culture in Australia

Culture is the entireness of socially imparted behavioral practices from one generation to the other. Culturally transferred patterns, from one generation to the other, play a vital role in the society, and determine the future prospects of that society (Angelo, 1994, p.10). The Indigenous culture in Australia has been systematically broken down since white settlement.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Breakdown of Indigenous Culture in Australia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In the Aboriginal culture and beliefs, Aboriginal Australia has taken a position of a living legacy of spiritual knowledge and culture. In addition, there has been sharing of different affairs through rituals, art, dance and many more into what they referred as dreamtime (Black, 1983, p.28). The Aborigines believed that their spiritual ancestors descended from the sky. Ceremonial songs functioned to honor legends of the dreamtime creati on era. Before the settlement of the Europeans in Australia in the 17th century, there was an estimate of over 600 groups of Aborigines. These groups had different dialects and cultures that gave them identity (Angelo, 1994, p.23). The settlement of the Europeans in Australia had superficial effects on the Aboriginal groups in the continent. Most of the dwellers believe that if they retained their culture as before, the groups’ status could be the same as those of individual countries with different languages like the ones that make up Europe. However, the British attempt to incorporate Australia into their empire, brought their success into an end. The 17th century marks the start of the modern Australian history to most of the individuals. This perception is in contrast with the view of the Aborigines since to them; it marks the beginning of the European invasion. The Europeans expected the Australian natives to integrate into their (European) ways promptly and without any question. The aborigines came across many social attitudes beyond their understanding. In addition, introduction of firearms, alcohol, and other devices took place leading to premature deaths of many Aborigines. The sudden introduction of the social evils from the western world resulted into considerable destruction to the Aborigines who had a cultural aim of living in harmony with each other. The Aborigines became foreigners in their own land since the Europeans had assumed supreme authority over everything on the land (Baldaulf, 1995, p.53). In addition, the Europeans treated the Aborigines in a harsh manner resulting to their inability to access the sacred sites and their hunting ventures ended.Advertising Looking for essay on cultural studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The Aborigines went through intense discrimination leading to condemnation and ridiculing of their lifestyle. During the colonial time, regarding of t he Aborigines as inferior led to lying down of missioners to keep them away from the society by closely supervising them all the time (Black, 1983, p.32). The colonialists claimed that the main aim of the close supervision was to protect the Aborigines from the Europeans. The missioners had a resemblance of concentration camps and the rules were that, unauthorized individuals could not leave or enter the designated areas. The missioners also barred natives from accessing some hospitals, which was a sign of total discrimination. In this essence, the Europeans portrayed no cultural diversity in the society. The missions forced the Aborigines to speak and dress like them with an intention of destroying the original society, and this made the Aborigines forget their traditional culture. This act killed cultural diversification since the Aborigines had no right to exercise their culture (Basso, 1998, p.20). In addition, the missions intended to bring to extinction the Aboriginal’s blood. Later, the white Australians adopted the Aborigines babies with an intention that they could forget their past and adapt with the white world. Moreover, the white Australians went to the extent of having powers to control the possessions of the Aborigines. The white Australians could not allow the Aborigines into the public facilities and occasions. Discrimination was not because the Aborigines could not afford for the services; no, they were considered primitive and uncivilized. In addition, the whites placed curfews in some areas, which meant that the Aborigines could not remain in town after certain hours. Moreover, discrimination took place even in education and health sectors. This also extended into the land ownership and employment opportunities, even though, the discriminatory practices were unlawful. Since the 18th century until late 19th century, there occurred controversy on the removal of children from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The federal and t he state government had the responsibility of doing this. This was in collaboration with the church agencies as an official government policy (Black, 1983, p.40).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Breakdown of Indigenous Culture in Australia specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More There was no clear reason of doing this and it remained uncontested by the people. The only known explanation indicated that the government feared the Aboriginal population would become extinct due to disease outbreaks. However, others held that the move was meant to protect children. In the 20th century, many changes in various sectors have taken place to avoid discrimination among the people. It is only a few years down the line since the Aborigines gained recognition as Australian citizens. It is during this time where most people agreed that the Aborigine should also have equal treatment as the ordinary Australians (Basso, 1998, p.23). Even after the passing of these laws, the Aborigines have continued to experience discrimination though they have greater control over their lives. In addition, only after a few decades, the Aborigines started experiencing an improved sense of equality. This was through better residential schemes, employment opportunities, education and many more. Moreover, the Aborigines regained of their land and still hoped that, with time, there would be an improvement on the attitude between different cultural groups. Currently, most of the Australians have pushed for reconciliation that will unite the indigenous and the non-indigenous Australians. In the modern Australia, most of the customs and activities have taken a new direction following the European contact. With this regard, new ways were passed from one generation to the other, considering them as traditional (Black, 1983, p.42). Changes in the Aboriginal culture have taken place over the last many years. Archeological studies reveal t his aspect, indicating that, there is no specific Aboriginal traditional culture since it varies with time and place. In the entire continent of Australia, Aboriginal language and culture is not uniform. The difference varies with demographic regions. The curved returning boomerang and the didgeridoo are examples of the Aboriginal culture. These two examples did spread well along the different regions of Australia. The returning boomerang took place in the southeastern part (Fasold, 1984, p.21). On the other hand, the didgeridoo, used during ceremonies, took place in the northern part. The continent had over 350 tribes each having its own language and traditions. In Australia, certain facets of culture exist in some parts but are lacking in the others because the continent is made of groups of states. This means that some practices took place in some areas, by particular tribes.Advertising Looking for essay on cultural studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Rise in sea level separated the Aborigines from the south from the mainland before the arrival of the Europeans. The aborigines in the south were the most isolated individuals in the world. They missed the humankind innovations in the stone technology (Dixon, 1980, p.50). People in the far north do not consider themselves as Aborigines; they consider themselves as a distinct group, and their culture is a blend of the Aborigines from the mainland and that of individuals from Papua New Guinea. In the modern Australia, the Aboriginals have almost adopted the living styles of the European culture; only a few groups can show or define their native culture. In other areas, families in the remote regions are working hard to maintain the traditions and live in ceremonial life (Janke, 1998, p.10). In addition, there are people living in the Aboriginal communities buying most of the basic needs and at times following the traditional methods of survival. Moreover, at the far end are the urban Aborigines who have adopted the European living styles. Inevitable changes such as the modern transport and living style had to take place in the Australian continent. Contemporary Australia is rooted in liberal democratic traditions. In Australia, three key societal values that include tolerance, informality, and egalitarianism, are well known. Anglo-Celtic origins have highly influenced the Australian’s culture (Janke, 1998, p.12). In addition, multi-ethnic migrations have also influenced the Australian life. Australia does not have an official language though English is the prevalent language. According to the recent census, a population of approximately 80% mostly uses English in homes because of influence by the colonialists where the indigenous language had no meaning. A good number of migrants in Australia are bilingual. During the time of the first European contact, more than 200 Aboriginal languages were in existence; however, approximately 70 languages are in existe nce currently (Fasold, 1984, p.23). Different developments that took place in the Australian continent threatened the indigenous languages. In some states, few indigenous languages survived. In countries where Europeans settled, indigenous languages underwent embattlement since the start of the colonial power. Colonialists in Australia based division of labor in gender, where women were associated with the private sphere. In addition, they were also associated with the unpaid work and the home (Dixon, 1980, p.56). On the other hand, men were associated with the public sphere. Moreover, men got associated with the paid work and the larger society. Division of labor was dominant during the early years of settlement. It is during this era when women took the role of homemakers whose role was to bring civility to men. In the traditional Australia, grouping of occupations was sex-segregated. Since 1970s, passing of policies to promote gender equality in all areas took place (Campbell, 19 97, p.78). This gave more room for women to participate in the secondary and higher education. In addition, there was an increase in the general workforce and availability of childcare. Cultural diversity has taken place in this essence bringing changes in areas like these where women have equal roles as men. In the formation of the government, Australia uses the British system. Elections take place after every four years for the federal, state, and territorial seats (Black, 1983, p.45). In the past, during the colonial rule, the Australian continent had different regions as they are nowadays. The system of the political parties in Australia bears features of the arrangements made by the federation of state. Three levels of government leaderships exist where democratic voting of the officials takes place. This gives the people freedom of choice compared to the colonial empire where dictation took place. Social stratification in Australia falls under three categories. These classes i nclude the working, the middle, and the upper class. The differences between the three groups raise alarm seriously. Individuals considered as the wealthiest fall in the upper class category. These individuals get their wealth from land ownership and capital generation. The middle class has individuals with non-manual occupations. As aforementioned, materials owned underscore the class of an individual; therefore, expensive clothes, cars, and homes characterize individuals in the upper class. The economic value of these properties varies across the regions (Basso, 1998, p.34). In other cases, the property owned cannot always characterize the class of different individuals. Patterns of speech and the mode of lifestyles may be strong indicators of a given class. Social welfare in Australia takes the notion of egalitarianism. In the wake of the 19th century, lawmaking has furthered impartiality in the society. This was meant to improve the chances to individuals with different disabili ties. During the colonial era, the Aborigines received massive discrimination from the whites in terms of accessing public facilities. The most common welfare issues are the rising unemployment and the aged people (Baldaulf, 1995, p.67). In addition, childcare, poverty, and helping individuals from the remote areas fall in the list. It is the culture of the Australians to offer equal treatment to the needy individuals without discrimination. Australians have the freedom to religion. The constitution supports this by guaranteeing religious freedom. In Australia, there is no official national religion, and this aspect puts Christianity in the forefront as the dominant religion in the country. The colonialists introduced the Anglican belief in the 17th century and most of the population identify with Christianity. Australia has gained its fame in religious diversity due to the extensive immigration. All faiths have gained a representation in the country since most of the indigenous peo ple have embraced Christianity. This has resulted from the close relationship between the citizens and the missionaries (Angelo, 1994, p.46). Religious alternatives had a small presence since the 1850s. The New Age movement represents a set of growing beliefs. The movement arrived in the 1960s and was able to spread greatly by the 1990s giving some way for paganism. In addition, it has given way for other aspects of the occult among a small fraction of the citizens. In conclusion, the settling of the Europeans in Australia played a prominent role in changing the culture of the Aborigines. The Europeans changed the lifestyle of the Aborigines tremendously by making them leave their indigenous culture. They have also brought to extinction the different tribes that were the original people of the country making them abandon their indigenous languages (Janke, 1998, p.89). The 20th century brought many changes in different areas though the Australians did not abandon some of the things t hey acquired during the colonial empire. In the current Australia, the government formation has taken after the British systems who were their colonizers. Bearing all the above in mind, it suffices to conclude that the indigenous culture in Australia has been broken down since the white settlement. Reference List Angelo, D. (1994). Australian phrasebook. Victoria: Lonely planet. Baldaulf, R. (1995). Backing Australian languages: Review of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages initiatives program. Canberra: National languages and literacy institute of Australia. Basso, K. (1998). Wisdom sits in places: Language and landscape among the western Apache. Albuquerque: University of Mexico press. Black, P. (1983). Aboriginal languages of the northern territory. Batchelor: SAL. Campbell, L. (1997). American Indian languages. London: Oxford university press. Dixon, R. (1980). The languages of Australia. Australia: Cambridge university press. Fasold, R. (1984). The sociolinguist ics of society. Oxford: Blackwell. Janke, T. (1998). Our culture, our future: Report on Australian indigenous cultural and intellectual property rights. Canberra: Viberg press. This essay on The Breakdown of Indigenous Culture in Australia was written and submitted by user Aviana Gonzalez to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

IKEA assignment Essays

IKEA assignment Essays IKEA assignment Essay IKEA assignment Essay Essay Topic: IKEA In this writing we will try to analyse IKEA, the furniture retailer in relation to the assortment of its products and the position it holds in the market. Another question we would analyse is what causes the consumer to decide on where to buy their products enabling the companys position in the market To complete this report we would use a SWOT analysis and a map positioning IKEA along with its competitors with reference to the variety of designs and the value for money. Mintel will be used to obtain statistical information and further research will be carried out from journal, books and news paper articles to support the evidence. As a result of the research we would also develop a list of factors that effect IKEA completing it with a summery. Facts and figures Ingvar Kamprad the founder of IKEA was 24 when he started selling furniture in 1943 opened his first store in his home town Sweden in 1958. As to date IKEA has 180 outlets operating in 22 countries to which 60% of the products are developed in Sweden and consists of approximately 10,000 home ware products in various assortments as listed below. * Bathroom, Beds, Mattresses, chairs and Childrens IKEA * Bookcases, storage systems, Kitchen Cook wares * Floors, Rugs, Lighting, Mirrors * Sofas, Sofa beds and Armchairs * Tables, Textiles, Wardrobes cloths storage * Workspace Furniture accessories During the year 2004 over 365 million customers have visited IKEA stores. The company purchases products from approximately 1,500 suppliers in 55 countries with 27 distributions centres in 16 countries. IKEA is 40% dependent in sourcing from other countries and also transporting from swedwood (own industrial groups)1 to other outlets, therefore it is important for these transport to supply their end of the purchasing to the customers. However the approach IKEA follows is mainly based on being environmentally friendly and they expect their suppliers wherever they are in the world to follow their code of conduct the Ikea Way (IWAY) which is explained in further details in Appendix A Ikea requires the routes from the suppliers to customers to be direct, cost effective environmentally friendly as possible which is also why flat packs are important to them and the customers Ikeas ethos is to provide affordable furnishing for working families, the flat pack nature of the products developed specifically in that format to enable prices to be kept low2. 12 months prior to February 2003 the mintel report has stated that Argos was the favourite source of decorated house ware products but less in functional house ware at 18% whereas IKEA attracted 12% of consumers holding its position in the 2nd place. However it would be necessary to mention that Argos also attracts shoppers interest in other products such as clothing, electrical and entertainment. Below is a table with further details from Mintel. On the other hand as seen on the table below in 2004 the retailer used for purchasing furniture is IKEA with 16% followed by Argos with 10% and department stores being 3rd with 5%. Source Mintel report3 Although IKEA may have counteracted with difficult situations in the past such as the the deadly poisoned bookshelves4 where formaldehyde was found after a tests were conducted by an investigative team from Germany. They have taken immediate action with stopping production world wide showing how the values of the customers were important to them. There may also be difficulties for the shoppers with no transports, with IKEA stores located in retails parks out of the city; however they do ensure transport via train and buses along with the offer to deliver. Position mapping After completing a research travelling the stores, browsing the catalogue and websites, it has helped to analysing the variety of products IKEA produces in comparison to its revelries. This has enabled us to compare prices and position them on the map as seen below. The map is designed to show where the companies stand in relation with its competitors with one line marked as the design/style of assortment the company has and the second line is to measure the value/pricing with both indicating the low and high levels. With approximately 10,000 assortments of furniture the consumer would know that there are varieties to choose from at reasonable prices with quality. This also helps the positioning of IKEA to be the 1st in the market place. `The UK is Ikeas third biggest market, generating 12% of group sales, or pounds 800m last year. Germany is biggest, with 21% of sales. In addition, Brent Park is the busiest Ikea store in the world.5 We can see that IKEA has the highest assortment of all 5 companies with 10,000 products at reasonable pricing. Whereas Habitat was placed on the map for the lowest design yet high with pricing. On the other hand although Argos was the cheapest company the assortment was also much less than IKEA with 3,500 furniture products. John Lewis was positioned on the map to be the third least expensive with the third in line for the variety of assortments in its product range, whereas MFI was placed to be 4th in line of varieties but 3rd with higher prices compared with IKEA. This is a tool used to measure the strength, weakness, threats and opportunity of a company in the market upon competitors as shown in Appendix B One of the major strengths of IKEA is that it a wide variety of products therefore giving them a competitive edge in comparison to their competitors. IKEA strengths come from storing their products under one roof and producing catalogues in various languages and delivers to homes. Last year, a total of 145 million copies were printed in 48 editions and 25 languages 6 The idea was to produce and sell simple, practical items of furniture that were easy to install The flat pack packaging is another one of IKEA strength with easy to install instruction. Another weakness of IKEA is the number of outlets with in UK and in order to strengthen that weakness it would be advisable to open further outlets which would be to their advantage. Although MFI has more outlets, unfortunately most of their furnitures are made as units which are one off to order that requires few weeks of delivery time where the likes of MFI or Courts may make money selling to the customer on a one-off basis7. An opportunity for IKEA is that it does not do e commerce as it is missing out on a great opportunity with large market segmentation, which is one of Argos strengths On the companys website it states that trade through the Internet is small but growing. However, in the UK IKEA does not offer home shopping either through its websites or the catalogue. Customers must make a trip to one of the stores to actually make a purchase8 One other weakness of IKEA is as stated by Mail on Sunday is the queuing system It is reckoned that customers often spend an hour queuing to pay at the checkouts of a busy store. And that helps explain why it wants to build 20 more9. Factors effecting IKEA There are a few factors which affect Ikea in a positive and negative perspective such as the change in fashion If you bought a new coat or boots this winter, the chances are it was not because your old ones had worn out but because you wanted the latest style, label or colour.10 Below listed are few other factors that effect IKEA and the consumer before buying the product. * Change in fashion and taste * Busy life schedule * E commerce * Retailing mistakes/Delivery issues * Marital status Factors in selecting a retailer * Flexibility Buying furniture is an emotional process. Customers require time, flexibility and support from their retail outlets when making such important decisions. We have to respect their needs11. * Quality and Price We are the ones who make the selection of the products by the quality, variety, and also by the price. It doesnt work if we pay a high price12 * Assortment of Product range * Location/ packaging * Media Pressure * Fashion change * Customer loyalty and perception.

Friday, November 22, 2019

The Lightning Thief and References to Greek Mythology

'The Lightning Thief' and References to Greek Mythology Rick Riordans The Lightning Thief (the first volume of Riordans Percy Jackson and the Olympians series) mentions many names familiar from Greek mythology. Here youll find further information on the explicit mythological references and some more subtle mythological allusions. The order of the list below attempts to follow the sequence of mentions in the book as well as Riordans other references to Greek mythology. The Book Series The Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series consist of five books by author Rick Riordan. The first book, The Lightning Thief, focuses on Percy Jackson, who is about to get kicked out of boarding school for the second time. Mythological monsters and gods are after him and he only has ten days to rectify what they want from him.  In the second book, The Sea of Monsters, Percy finds trouble at Camp Half-Blood where mythological monsters are back. In order to save the camp and keep it from being destroyed, Percy needs to gather his friends.   The third book,  The Titans Curse, has Percy and his friends looking to see what happened to the goddess Artemis, who went missing and is believed to have been kidnapped.  They need to solve the mystery and save Artemis before the winter solstice. In the fourth book, The Battle of the Labyrinth, the war between the Olympians and Titan lord Kronos grows stronger as Camp Half-Blood becomes more vulnerable. Percy and his friends have to go on a quest in this adventure. In the fifth and final installment of the series, The Last Olympian  focuses on the half-bloods preparing for the war against the Titans. Knowing it is an uphill battle, the thrill is strong to see who will reign more powerful. About the Author Rick Riordan is most known for the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series but has also written the Kane Chronicles and the Heroes of Olympus. He is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and has won multiple awards for the mystery series for adults known as Tres Navarre. Mythological References KronosTitansZeus/JupiterTitanomachyFatesHadesMinotaurHerculesChironPegasusHeraApolloNymphsDionysusAphrodite/VenusPrometheusCentaurUnderworldHermesAresOracleNaiadsAthenaDemeterPoseidonLaurelHephaestusArtemisCerberusNemesisCyclopsTrojan WarCirceHydraPythonMaiaJasonMt. EtnaIliadGolden AgeGorgonsPanShower of GoldNemean LionZephyrChimeraIrisCupidArachneArachneAresArtemisAphrodite/VenusApolloAsphodel FieldsAthenaCentaurCerberusCharonChimeraChironCirceCupidCyclopsDemeterDionysusElysian FieldsEtnaFatesGolden AgeGorgonsHeraHadesHarpiesHeraHephaestusHerculesHermesHydraIliadIrisJasonJupiter/ZeusKronosLaurelLotusOracleMaiaMinotaur9 MusesMt. EtnaNaiadsNemean LionNemesisNereidNymphsPanPegasusPersephonePoseidonPrometheusPythonShower of GoldSisyphusTitanomachyTitansTrojan WarUnderworldUnderworld Judges - MinosVenus/AphroditeZephyrZeus/JupiterLotusNereidCharonAsphodel FieldsElysian FieldsDemeter9 MusesHarpiesAndromedaAntaeusBulls of ColchisCadmusCalypsoDryadsEurytionGanymedeGeryonGraeaeJanusLaistrygo nians Mt. OthrysPeleusPolyphemus

Thursday, November 21, 2019

English is seen by some as 'the global language'. Discuss with Essay - 1

English is seen by some as 'the global language'. Discuss with reference to some of the domains in which English is gaining most - Essay Example It is interesting to discuss why English, and why not any other language. According to Crystal David (2003 ) a language achieves a global status only when it develops a ‘special role’ and fulfils certain functions. The ‘power function’ of language expects that it should enable us to gain goods and services in order to live well and lead a good life. The ‘community function’ of language helps us to represent a personal and social identity. The former is a centrifugal force and the latter is a centripetal force. Let us examine how far the English language is successful in playing the ‘special role’ which implies numerous facets, so that it can rightly be called an international language. One hypothesis can be that a language that is the Mother Tongue of people in maximum number of countries can be an international language. But geographically speaking, English is a mother tongue in a handful of nations like USA, Canada, Britain, Irela nd, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa several Caribbean countries and a few others. Yet, we observe that its influence has reached all parts of the world. Hence, being a mother tongue of many nations cannot be a criterion for being qualified as an international language. ... The language adhered to the religion and was retained. English was the language of administration during the British rule and even after Independence, English continued to be used as an official language in more than 70 countries like Ghana, Nigeria, India and Singapore, to mention a few. In the 19th century, England was politically a powerful nation. In the 20th century, its power began to wane and USA became economically dominant. The mother tongue in USA is also English. Political power establishes a language, as it happened in the 19th century. But it is economic power that helps to maintain and expand it. This happened in the 20th century when America became an economic power. It is indeed true that ‘English was at the right place at the right time’. ( Crystal David, 2003 ) The Industrial Revolution and the Electronic Revolution were two important historical events that changed the face of the world. These revolutions were led by British and American scientists. The y brought vast changes in the lifestyle of people all over the world and were two major steps towards globalization. Following these events, English language captured areas like media, advertising, popular music, broadcasting, cinema, computers and internet. In order to stay ‘with the world’, people realized that they had to know the English language. It promoted international relations. English is taught as a foreign language in more than 100 countries today, the chief among them being China, Germany, Spain, Egypt, Brazil, India and an ever increasing number of countries for that matter. A lot of time and money is spent by many countries in teaching English as a foreign language. It is realized by one and all

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Language Acquisition Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Language Acquisition - Essay Example The myth that â€Å"Languages are learned mainly through imitation† is such a shallow concept of language learning and undermines the great researchers that have been dedicated to its study. No doubt, language may be learned through imitation, but the language learner does not stop at imitating a language model. He goes beyond that. There have been many theories conceptualized as to how language is acquired by human beings. Lindfors (1987) claims, â€Å"Virtually every child, without special training, exposed to surface structures of language in many interaction contexts, builds for himself – in a short period of time and at an early stage in his cognitive development – a deep-level, abstract, and highly complex system of linguistic structure and use. â€Å"( p. 90) This implies that every child is capable of learning the language. Skinner’s Behaviorist Model of language acquisition is consistent with the rules of operant conditioning, based upon a stimulus-response model. Simply put, infants are presented with language which they imitate. They are rewarded for their imitations so they continue to repeat what they have heard. Their imitation does not have to be exact or immediate in order for them to make use of it in learning the language (Brewer, 2001). However, as the child grows, imita tion should approximate the accurate pronunciation of words. According to the behaviorist view, an individual is reinforced (positively or negatively) for responses to various stimuli, hence, the external environment plays a great part in the formation of behaviors. By administering positive reinforcement such as praising or smiling when the desired behavior occurs and administering negative reinforcement such as scolding or correcting when an undesired behavior occurs, one is assumed to encourage the desired behavior and make it more likely that that behavior will recur (Lindfors, 1987).   

Saturday, November 16, 2019

1984 vs. Animal Farm Essay Example for Free

1984 vs. Animal Farm Essay In both novels Nineteen Eighty-Four and Animal Farm there are many similarities. Three main topics, which will be discussed in this essay, are: control, isolation, and rebellion. The governing powers in each society of the two novels use control and isolation as tools for suppressing rebellion to ensure their reign of the social authority for future years to come. In Nineteen Eighty-Four, the government, also known as the Party, controls the society Winston lives in. This takes place near the eastern side of the world and it is separated into three areas: Eurasia, Eastasia and Oceania. These three lands are constantly at war with each other and are controlled by different governors. Winston lives in Oceania and the Partys leader is someone named Big Brother. No one has ever seen this person before, but is said to exist. The Party abolishes every type of art including the art of having free will. These abilities were destroyed, smothered, and obliterated through careful means, and anyone having them was stated insane, dangerous, and antisocial. To prevent these laws from being broken, the Party brainwash people and have Telescreens that can monitor everyones actions and a security task force called Thought Police to enforce these laws with torture and pain. The Thought Police would get him just the same. He had committed, even if he had never set pen to paper, the essential crime that contained all others in itself. Thoughtcrime, they called it. Thoughtcrime could not be concealed forever. You might dodge successfully for a while, even for years, but sooner or later they ware bound to get you (pg. 166) The Thought Police are so feared that even Winston is afraid to break any of the laws. He knows he wants to write, but is already afraid before he even starts. This is how the Party suppresses the society. Likewise, in Animal Farm, control is involved with its society as well. The animals portrayed in this novel represent human beings. The pigs are the smartest animals in the farm and they take control and manipulate the other  animals to do their dirty work. One of the pigs, Napoleon, has taken the throne of power with force and he controls the farm by using all the animals for his own benefit. Like Nineteen Eighty-Four, there are laws in Animal Farm, but as time goes by they are changed and shaped to his liking. To enforce Napoleons way of life, he uses savage dogs (which he raises from birth) to suppress the society (the animals). The dogs are just like the Thought Police in Nineteen Eighty-Four. All that year the animals worked like slaves. But they were happy in their work; they grudged no effort or sacrifice, well aware that everything they did was for the benefit of themselves and those of their kind who would come after them, and not for a pack of idle, thieving human beings.  (pg. 51) Napoleon and the Party are the same. They both control the society with manipulation or control and anyone who does not follow their rules, are dealt with. Isolation in Nineteen Eighty-Four, is displayed by the whole society itself. It can be seen through the laws of each land and how the wars between them. The Party constantly tells the society false information to keep them where they are. It tries to keep the population from leaving their land and moving to another, even though it is impossible since every other land is equally isolated. The society is constantly given false information about their land being in war with this one to frighten the people. The Party tries to keep the society separated from other ones to ensure that no other power can overthrow them. For example, if another land were to gain a higher population, they would have more power and more control. Thus, showing the Partys isolation. Once when he happened in some connection to mention the war against Eurasia, she startled him by saying casually that in her opinion the war was not happening. The rocket bombs which fell daily on London were probably fired by the Government of Oceania itself, just to keep people frightened. (pg.  154) Just the same, Animal Farm, is isolated. The animals take over the farm and they keep themselves away from the humans. They even change the original name of the farm to Animal Farm once they have taken it over. The farm is isolated from the rest of the society. The animals in the farm are separated and even have their own governors. In the farm, the animals believe that all animals are comrades and the only enemy against them is man. They believed that they were better off without the humans and that they would live even better lives than the humans. The animals were happy as they had never conceived it possible to be. Every mouthful of food was an acute positive pleasure, now that it was truly their own food, produced by themselves and for themselves, not doled out to them by a grudging master (pg. 24) The animals are isolated from the humans and now that they are, they believe that they are truly happier and productive than they were in the past. Many of the people in Nineteen Eighty-Four are brainwashed and are made to believe that they are living a prosperous life. The people have no idea that the world they live in is actually a lie, except for Winston, who believes otherwise. Inside his heart, he hates the Party even though he works for them. His work is to produce false information and deliver it to the society. Winston hates this, thus leading him to rebel. To fight against the Party, there is a group led by a man named Goldenstein and the only purpose of the group is to stop the Party. In the end the rebellion is useless and nothing actually comes good out of it. Nothing can change the Party and nothing will. He was walking down the white-tiled corridor, with the feeling of walking in sunlight, and an armed guard at his back. The long-hoped-for bullet was entering his brain? He loved Big Brother (pg. 300) Even though Winston has joined the rebellion, it is shown that it wont  succeed. The rebellion is proven that it wont succeed in this quote. Winston represents the rebellion in general and the bullet represents the Party. The bullet has entered Winstons brain and has killed him, just like how the Party will kill the rebellion. Similarly, Animal Farm has a rebellious group. Like Nineteen Eighty-Four, the animals represented the rebels and that man represented the Party. Man, just like the Party, had complete control over the farm. Then the animals decided it was time, and raged war with man. The difference is that the animals did actually overthrow the government unlike the rebels in Nineteen Eighty-Four, but the rebels in both novels still have the same goal. Man is the only creature that consumes without producing. He does not give milk, he does not lay eggs, he is too weak to pull the plough, he cannot run fast enough to catch rabbits. Yet he is lord of all the animals. He sets them to work, he gives back to them the bare minimum that will prevent them from starving, and the rest he keeps for himself  (pg. 7) The animals rebel for same reasons as Winston did. They are living in a world where they are all mistreated. To sum it up, there are many similarities between Nineteen Eighty-Four and Animal Farm. Both powers in each novel have complete control of the society, and use isolation and force to subdue them. This never-ending fight for control will never stop and any change will just result in a large cycle leading back to the same problems.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Revenge of Iago in Shakespeares Othello :: Othello essays Shakespeare

The Revenge of Iago in William Shakespeare's Othello In Shakespeare's "Othello," Iago carefully and masterfully entraps Othello into believing that his wife, Desdemona, is having an affair with Cassio. He does this through a series of suggestions and hesitations that entice and implant images into Othello's head that lead him to his own demise. More importantly, Iago gives Othello the motive to murder his own innocent wife Desdemona, satisfying Iago's immense appetite for revenge. The motive for Iago's devious plan is initially made clear in the first of three major soliloquies, in which he proclaims Othello has had an affair with his wife, Emilia: "And it is thought abroad that t'wixt my sheets/ He's done my office" (I.iii.381-383). The irony behind this line is where he continues: "I know not if't be true/ But I, for mere suspicion in that kind; / Will do as if for surety"(I.iii.383-385). Iago is so exceedingly paranoid and insane that he will go far as murdering, and deluding even a general into murdering his wife. Iago simultaneously conducts a devious plan to obtain Cassio's position as lieutenant, using Desdemona's prime weakness; her naivety. He disgraces Cassio by intoxicating him enough so he strikes Roderigo. Othello then discharges Cassio of his Lieutenancy when he says: "Cassio, I love thee,/ But nevermore be officer of mine" (II.iii.242-244). It was therefore understandable that he would fall to the mercy of Iago, completely oblivious to the inevitable effects. Iago reveals his plan to the reader in his third soliloquy when he states:      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   His soul is so unfettered to her love,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   That she may make, unmake, do what she list,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   even as her appetite shall play the god   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   With his weak function...   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   And she for him pleads strongingly to the Moore,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I'll pour this pestilence into his ear:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   That she repels him for her body's lust,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   And by how much she strives to do him good,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   She shall undo her her credit with the Moor (II.iii.330-350). The first instance of this plan comes to life in the scene where Iago gets Cassio drunk, but the crafting only begins after Cassio is dismissed by Othello. With Cassio's reputation squandered, Iago subsequently hooks in Cassio by taking advantage of the fact that he is in a state in which he would do anything to acquire his job, position, and reputation back. The Revenge of Iago in Shakespeare's Othello :: Othello essays Shakespeare The Revenge of Iago in William Shakespeare's Othello In Shakespeare's "Othello," Iago carefully and masterfully entraps Othello into believing that his wife, Desdemona, is having an affair with Cassio. He does this through a series of suggestions and hesitations that entice and implant images into Othello's head that lead him to his own demise. More importantly, Iago gives Othello the motive to murder his own innocent wife Desdemona, satisfying Iago's immense appetite for revenge. The motive for Iago's devious plan is initially made clear in the first of three major soliloquies, in which he proclaims Othello has had an affair with his wife, Emilia: "And it is thought abroad that t'wixt my sheets/ He's done my office" (I.iii.381-383). The irony behind this line is where he continues: "I know not if't be true/ But I, for mere suspicion in that kind; / Will do as if for surety"(I.iii.383-385). Iago is so exceedingly paranoid and insane that he will go far as murdering, and deluding even a general into murdering his wife. Iago simultaneously conducts a devious plan to obtain Cassio's position as lieutenant, using Desdemona's prime weakness; her naivety. He disgraces Cassio by intoxicating him enough so he strikes Roderigo. Othello then discharges Cassio of his Lieutenancy when he says: "Cassio, I love thee,/ But nevermore be officer of mine" (II.iii.242-244). It was therefore understandable that he would fall to the mercy of Iago, completely oblivious to the inevitable effects. Iago reveals his plan to the reader in his third soliloquy when he states:      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   His soul is so unfettered to her love,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   That she may make, unmake, do what she list,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   even as her appetite shall play the god   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   With his weak function...   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   And she for him pleads strongingly to the Moore,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   I'll pour this pestilence into his ear:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   That she repels him for her body's lust,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   And by how much she strives to do him good,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   She shall undo her her credit with the Moor (II.iii.330-350). The first instance of this plan comes to life in the scene where Iago gets Cassio drunk, but the crafting only begins after Cassio is dismissed by Othello. With Cassio's reputation squandered, Iago subsequently hooks in Cassio by taking advantage of the fact that he is in a state in which he would do anything to acquire his job, position, and reputation back.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Foreshadowing In “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck Essay

John Steinbeck uses foreshadowing through out the story of â€Å"Of Mice and Men† to prepare the reader for the final scene. Foreshadowing is the composition of layered hints or clues about what may happen in the future of the story. Early in the story, these lines or events suggest a wide range of possibilities to the audience. But as the story progresses, the range narrows. In order for the impact of foreshadowing to be effective, the audience has to be both surprised by the climax of the story and find it logical. The logic comes from foreshadowing. Steinbeck uses foreshadowing in the course of â€Å"Of Mice and Men† by pulling together past events in the story, to build to the ending impact and overall importance and effect of the final scene. In the first chapters, it is apparent that Lennie is a simple minded man who likes to pet things that are soft and delicate. George and Lennie are traveling through to the farm for work. They had to escape from the town they were previously at because Lennie had an incident with one of the women in the town. He was a rather large, frightening fellow. He went up to a young women because the beauty of her dressed marveled him. Just as he did with mice, he insisted on touching it. That is all. Because of her frightened screams, he grabbed onto the dress and did not let go out of fear and panic. This led him into much trouble and the townspeople to go after him. George took Lennie and they escaped the town. This is foreshadowing to the ending scene because once again, Lennie just had to have a touch and once again, led him to trouble that even George could not fix. When Carlson insisted on killing Candy’s old worn dog friend, it was foreshadowing to the final scene in which all of the men insisted on searching and killing Lennie. Although Candy deep down knew that his dog was beyond his years and was suffering day to day, it was hard for him to accept it and let go. His dog was his only true friend. The same is true about Lennie and George’s relationship. Although George knows what Lennie has done is wrong, and that if he were to remain around or alive that he would just suffer more with his conscience and the other men searching for him. Candy feels that he should have been the one to take his best friend out of the world in which he played such a great part in. This is foreshadowing to the  time that George is faced with the same decision. George feels it is his job and right to have the choice to be the one to kill Lennie. George kills him quickly and painlessly, without the suffering that the other men wished to cast upon hi m. Steinbeck uses foreshadowing in the course of â€Å"Of Mice and Men† by pulling together past events in the story, to build to the ending impact and overall importance and effect of the final scene. At the beginning, Lennie gets in the middle of mass confusion when he approaches a woman and tries to stroke her soft dress. George then collected Lennie and they both escaped town. This is foreshadowing to the ending scene because once again, Lennie just had to have a touch and once again, led him to trouble that even George could not fix. Another example of foreshadowing is when Carlson kills Candy’s dog who was past his time. Candy said he should have been the one to do it. This foreshadows George’s decision with Lennie. Although he knows he needs to do it, it is just to painful.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Lamb to the Slaughter: How Did Social Roles Allow Mrs. Maloney to Get Away with Murder

Amber Lopez Mr. Lopez AP English III February 4, 2013 Snapped: How Mrs. Maloney got away with murder In the short story â€Å"Lamb to the slaughter† by Roald Dahl, Mrs. Maloney gets away with killing her husband and nobody really suspects her of doing so because she's a woman. The setting and time period of the story plays a large role because this is still an era when men and women had gender roles. Mrs. Maloney isn't a suspect to her husband's murder because she had an alibi and one of the main reasons was she had the gender role of the typical house wife.In the story the detctives do not suspect Mrs. Maloney of killing her husband because her gender roles as a woman are being fragile, dumb, incapable of doing anything that needs physical force, does nothing but cook, clean, take care of the house, tend to her husband, and above all she is pregnant which helps her get away with murdering her husband. Mrs. Maloney is the typical house wife that always tends to her husbands ev ery need. When she kills her husband and the detectives come to her house to investigate his murder they do not expect her to have done such a thing.The detectives believed that her husband was hit behind the head with a heavy blunt object and her gender role being a woman let alone a pregnant woman help her get away with murder. Since she's a pregnant woman her gender role helps her seem fragile and weak Incapable of carrying a heavy object and exerting enough force to kill someone, so that's one of the reasons she gets away with murder. Another reason Mrs. Maloney gets away with killing her husband is that she basically worshipped him, she lived for him. Mrs.Maloney did everything she possibly could make her husband a happy man, the way it should be in those times. In the story it shows how much Mrs. Maloney loved her husband, and how she enjoyed being a house wife. The police officers and detectives notice that Mrs. Maloney seemed to be grieving over her husband's death, and they didn't know about Mr. Maloney's intentions on leaving Mrs. Maloney, so it makes her look less suspicous. Last but not least Mrs. Maloney was a smart woman, and created an alibi. Men in those times thought women were dumb, and they were also supposed to be virtuous and innocent.So when the detectives questioned her she had the perfect alibi. To men a woman could have never been able to do such a thing because they were too innocent, and since they were considered dumb they knew she would've been caught if they would have killed someone. In Conclusion, the gender roles of women played a large role in the story because it hepled Mrs. Maloney get away with murdering her husband. The detectives obviously had stereotypes about her being the typical house wife and she played along, so Mr. Maloney's murderer will remain a mystery. DUN DUN DUN

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Strategic management review for SAB Essay Example

Strategic management review for SAB Essay Example Strategic management review for SAB Essay Strategic management review for SAB Essay Essay Topic: Marketing The following strategic review aims at assessing the strategic situation of South African Breweries Group. We will start with an external analysis of the environment in which SAB operates, we will continue with an internal analysis of its resources and capabilities, and then we will outline and appraise the group current strategy. Additionally we will study the companys strategy implementation issues, and we will finish giving some recommendations to SAB. In order to carry out this analysis different analysis tools were used, which are included in the Appendices. In the main body of the report we will only focus on the conclusions we have obtained, hence, if further information about how we got to these findings is required the appendices should be consulted. Different tools were used (Porters five forces, analysis of industrys life cycle, and PEST analysis) in order to assess the environment in which SAB operates. Based on the analysis conducted using Porters five forces (Appendix A) the following was found: the brewing industry in the developed world is not clearly attractive; its performance depends on the ability to consolidate and exploit opportunities in the emerging markets. However, the brewing industry in the emerging markets, where SAB operates, is highly attractive. We have observed good points such as the low level of power within suppliers and buyers, a lack of substitutes, and a relatively low level of rivalry because emerging markets are supplied by small-scaled local brewers offering low quality beer. However, there is a significant threat of new entrants coming from other geographical areas (International breweries). We have also analysed the industry life cycle (Appendix B). We have got to the conclusion that the brewing industry in the developed world is in the maturity stage. It is very important for SAB to be aware of this issue, because it means that the market situation will force breweries based in mature markets to look for new opportunities for growth by entering the emerging markets where SAB operates. In the less developed world and in the emerging economies the brewing industry is still in its growth stage. Growth in beer consumption in these markets is driven by an increase in population and economic prosperity which indicates that SAB can achieve its own growth through the growth in the marketplace. The brewing industry is highly fragmented, and the market is supplied by small breweries offering low quality beer, meaning that rivalry between local breweries and SAB is not intense. SAB has successfully captured market share through acquisitions and joint ventures and differentiated its brand portfolio, by offering a high quality beer. However, entry of international competitors is expected to intensify the competition as well as the fight for market share. With the PEST analysis (Appendix C) we outlined how political, economical, social and technological factors affect the company. The emerging market attractiveness (like other markets) is determined by the following: market potential, which is influenced by the market size, market growth prospects and customer preferences. Market growth is clearly correlated to economic growth and wealth distribution. Additionally, economic growth and wealth distribution influence whether customers seek economy or premium beers. Drinking norms and societal attitudes to alcohol consumption also affect market attractiveness. All the above mentioned issues are analysed in order to gain a better understanding of SABs environment. Regarding competitors we do not think we have enough information to get to any relevant conclusions, however, we know the degree of rivalry is likely to increase (international brewers based in mature markets are moving out of their geographic areas to the emerging markets). In order to assess competition, it is critical that SAB recognises the strategic group to which it belongs which is the international breweries strategic group, seeking consolidation and competing for development opportunities throughout the world. It is very important to do a deeper analysis of the competitive landscape; a good study should include the following steps (Porter, 1998): * Identify competitors current strategy. * Identify their future goals. * Identify their assumptions about the company. * Identify their resources and capabilities. This approach provides valuable information, and helps the company predicting competitors moves. At this point we are going to focus on the importance of the Resource-based strategy. It is based on the assumption that the company achieves its competitive advantages by developing a strategy based on its organisational capabilities and the key success factors of the industry; thus, a key issue for SAB is to identify and develop these capabilities in order to achieve a competitive advantage. It is very important to understand the process of turning resources into capabilities and to identify the core competences; those capabilities fundamental to its performance and strategy, done better than its competitors. Resources are inputs into the production process; a capability is the capacity of a team of resources to perform some task or activity. We have identified some resources and capabilities of SAB in (Appendix D); however, the company should do a deeper analysis. It is important to note here that SABs capabilities are not the result of superior resource endowments; however, the key issue here is the firms ability to leverage its resources. SAB has achieved resource leverage using the following fundamental ways: first, concentrating resources on key strategic goals. SAB focuses attention on a few operational goals in the acquired breweries at any one time, and then it moves to other goals. It first focuses on upgrading quality, then comes improvement to marketing and distribution, afterwards, the improvement of productivity and capacity. Second, SAB has used the resources accumulation method to leverage resources. SAB has borrowed the resources of other breweries through acquisitions, and joint ventures (CREB in China), which gave SAB a smooth and quick penetration into the emerging markets. SAB also used the resource conserving method, through the process of recycling resources. The more often SAB expertise in running breweries was used in different emerging markets, the greater the resource leverage was. To conclude, we think SAB has valuable resources and capabilities so as to achieve and maintain competitive advantage in the emerging markets. Nevertheless, the company must investigate at this point whether these capabilities are transferable to the developed world, where it needs to have a major brand according to many commentators. At this point we will define the nature of the strategy carried out by SAB. We will distinguish between the Corporate, the Business and the Functional level, in order to draw a more accurate picture on this issue. Once the strategy is defined, we will use a strategic tool (Rumelts Test) in order to assess the convenience of the strategy. * Corporate Strategy: SAB has developed a strategy of growth in the emerging economies via acquisitions. Its acquisition policy has been acquiring breweries that would increase SABs market share and at the same time could be improved by exploiting synergies and economies of scale. SAB also follows a related diversification strategy in order to spread risk. In addition to the geographic diversification strategy which tends to increase the companys overall profitability, SAB adopted a business diversification strategy by going into the hotel and entertainment business. * Business strategy. The strategy is to differentiate products on the basis of quality, in order to achieve higher market shares than competitors and enhance profit margins through charging slightly higher prices (see Appendix E, The strategy clock). The strategy also includes adjusting to local needs; SAB kept the local brands of acquired breweries. Moreover, the company realised the regional differences in China and treated each region in which it operates as an independent self-contained market. * Functional strategy. The strategy evolves around growth (through sales increase), and costs reduction (automation and modernisation of breweries and large production runs economies of scale). We have used Rumelts Test to assess if the different strategies are appropriate (see Appendix F). It is evident that all strategies are appropriate. However, this does not necessary mean that they can still work in the future, SAB should be aware of changes in environment, demand, strategies of other competitors, etc. Strategy implementation is an action-oriented, operation-driven activity revolving around managing people, within the organizational structure and its culture. At this stage we will identify the structure of the company and the key aspects of its culture. In the case of SAB, limited information was provided about the type of the organizational structure. However, from the analysis conducted in Appendix E, we can define SABs organizational structure. According to Mintzbergs structure configuration analysis (Appendix E), SAB follows a pattern of a divisionalised organization, adopting a geographically based vertical corporate structure for its international operations. Such a structure allows each of its country units or divisions to operate fairly autonomously from the other areas. The key part in this type of organization is the middle line managers. As a strategy for developing countries this is a definite benefit for SAB because it allows it to maintain expertise in each of its different countries. Moreover, this kind of structure is appropriate in market diversity as it spreads risk and reduces setbacks (e.g. setbacks in Mozambique and Tanzania were offset by the growth in China and Poland); it also allows the company to divest from any market easier than functional (machine) structures. However, it is argued that divisions can be seen as less effective than independent businesses. Organization culture: Divisional cultures: the differences between divisions may be particularly evident in organizations that have grown through acquisition (Exploring corporate strategy, Jerry Johnson and Kevan Scholes, 6th Ed, 2002). Having adopted a growth strategy through acquisition, and being a divisionalized organization, SAB has generated a difference in its geographical as well as in its functional divisions, creating subcultures. However, there is one main dominant culture for the whole group. Handy characterized culture in terms of the relationship between the organization and individuals and also the importance of power and hierarchy (Johnson and Scholes, Exploring corporate strategy, 6th Ed, Prentice Hall). Based on Handys analysis, SABs organizational culture could be the closest to the Task Culture seeking to achieve integration and synergy through acquisition. We will closely identify the characteristics of SABs culture by looking at its cultural web (Johnson 1998) these are: * Stories and myths: no information provided. * Rituals and routines: SAB has a consistent high quality brands and services, meeting customers needs (consistency could be considered as an operational routine). * Control system: no information provided. * Organization structure: SABs management structure is decentralized, reflecting its power structure and its divisionalization. Collaboration is very important. * Power structure: SABs power structure is decentralized. While strategic decisions are kept at the head-quarter, the power is not only based in the hands Graham Mackay the CE, but also delegation of the strategic planning is done at other managerial levels, reflecting SABs growth strategy. Moreover, operations in each country are run autonomously. * Symbols: no information provided. * The paradigm: SAB seems to be working not only to maximize long-term shareholders value like any other multi-national organization, but also seeks to maximize all stakeholder value. Moreover, despite the political, racial and economical problems faced in South Africa, SAB unlike other companies, continued to invest where it had initially started showing its commitment. SAB also respects the values and cultures of the communities in which it operates. Differentiation and high quality beer is on of the main key aspects in SABs paradigm.

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

Mesencephalon (Midbrain) Function and Structures

Mesencephalon (Midbrain) Function and Structures The mesencephalon or midbrain is the portion of the brainstem that connects the hindbrain and the forebrain. A number of nerve tracts run through the midbrain that connect the cerebrum with the cerebellum and other hindbrain structures. A major function of the midbrain is to aid in movement as well as visual and auditory processing. Damage to certain areas of the mesencephalon have been linked to the development of Parkinsons disease. Function: Functions of the mesencephalon include: Controlling Responses to SightEye MovementPupil DilationRegulate Muscle MovementHearing Location: The mesencephalon is the most rostral portion of the brainstem. It is located between the forebrain and the hindbrain. Structures: A number of structures are located in the mesencephalon including the tectum, tegmentum, cerebral peduncle, substantia nigra, crus cerebri, and cranial nerves (oculomotor and trochlear). The tectum consists of rounded bulges called colliculi that are involved in vision and hearing processes. The cerebral peduncle is a bundle of nerve fibers that connect the forebrain and hindbrain. The  cerebral peduncle includes the tegementum (forms the base of the midbrain) and the crus cerebri (nerve tracts that that connect the cerebrum with the cerebellum). The substantia nigra has nerve connections with the frontal lobes and other areas of the brain involved in motor function. Cells in the substantia nigra also produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps to coordinate muscle movement. Disease: Neurodegeneration of nerve cells in the substantia nigra results in a drop off of dopamine production. Significant loss in dopamine levels (60-80%) may result in the development of Parkinsons disease. Parkinsons disease is a nervous system disorder that results in the loss of motor control and coordination. Symptoms include tremors, slowness of movement, muscle stiffness, and trouble with balance. More Mesencephalon Information: Grays Anatomy: Midbrain Divisions of the Brain Forebrain - encompasses the cerebral cortex and brain lobes.Midbrain - connects the forebrain to the hindbrain.Hindbrain - regulates autonomic functions and coordinates movement.

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Develop a Mission Statement Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Develop a Mission Statement - Assignment Example This 11-words mission statement provides a succinct description about its mission that it proposes for 2015. As Blythe, Zimmerman and Zimmerman (2005, p. 34) pointed, a mission statement gives clear expression to what is to be achieved by the company, in what manner it will be achieved and why this is worth achieving. Hilton is currently the fourth largest hotel chain just behind intercontinental Wyndham and Marriot international. Hilton plans to beat its competitors by 2015 with its new mission to reach wider population by helping its customers entertain to rejoice evermore. For this target to be accomplished, the company would thrive on innovation and invest extensively on technology to bring latest technology advantages to hospitality arrangements. Though ‘technology’ brings everything customers want, still people are always very likely to entertain with ‘nature’. In order to satisfy customers who are concerned about nature as well, Hilton proposes to align technology to nature, and facilitate traditional natural amusements and leisure parks with any latest and highly sophisticated technology advances that Hilton can reach at. As its mission illustrates, Hilton ultimately looks at customers to fulfill meeting of varying requirements of customers in regard to entertainment with technology and natural advantages and thus to seize this opportunity for long-term profitability of the firm. ‘Technology’ mentioned in the mission statement certainly reflects the strengths of the company in relation to its extensive investment in research and development and innovative projects. It will keep on trying to change its business strategy and techniques by adding latest technology to its marketing opportunities. The statement is motivating to it stakeholders because it clearly defines its potential strengths and ways that it can grab marketing opportunities for leisure, entertainment and hospitality

Thursday, October 31, 2019

The importance of the quest in Homer's Odyssey and Dante's The Inferno Essay

The importance of the quest in Homer's Odyssey and Dante's The Inferno - Essay Example The damned souls populate the chasm, which Dante classifies under Aristotle's Nichomachean Ethics, and thus becomes an amalgamation of Grecian hellish myth and a testimony to Aquinas' appropriation of Christian sensibility in Aristotle's Ethics. Virgil guides Dante through the nine concentric circles of Hell., diving into deeper and graver sins, unrepentant, and culminating into absolute evil, as represented by Satan. The journey begins from the Dark wood, and into the Limbo. It is more of a pagan, unbaptised and a coarse yet virtuous crowd like Homer, Horace, Ovid and Lucan (Canto IV), who only repent their seperation from god. In Canto V, one of the seven cardinal sins appear, which is sin under lust. Inhabited by the adultress Francesca, who proclaims to justify her irresistible attraction to Paolo, in a way that evokes the ideology of the immoral Thirteenth century Italian love sonnets, that challenged the power of love beyond anything. The third realm is possessed by Cerbereus, amonster from greek mythology, but attributed with montrous humanity by Dante, who guards the gluttons. The journey also evokes the political tensions of contemporary Florence and the complexity of the whole Guelf-Ghibelline conflict and Florent ine politics that reached its crest in 1300 (ironically the fictional date chosen by Dante for his Inferno). Hatred for papacy, and the belief that Rome is predestined to be the seat of Empire, disillutions the poet about factionalism (symbolically Florence is shown to be divided by the Arno river of the Hell in Inferno) and party politics and makes him search out a way for Salvation through his poem. The political condition of Florence is mouthed by the sinner Ciacco in Canto VI, in the third realm. IN Canto VII, with the beginning of the fourth circle, Dante sees Pluto stationed, a place damned for the avaricious and the prodigal. In a sysiphean way, the group ofmiserly and the wasteful squanderers push weights against each other and start allover again when it smashes on any of the sides. It is a psychological drama represented by the futility that awaits all materials things that we pursue in life. Entering the land of the sloths, thepoet and Virgil cross Styx with the ferryman, Phlegyas, when tey meet the fury of Filippo Argenti, and denied entry by the fallen angels of the city of Dis, and meeting the hellish monsters and the wrath of the furies are granted entrance due to Heaven's intervention. Thesixth circle burns with consuming flames to torture the heretics. Here he meets the famous Ghibelline Farinata delgi Uberti, who was seen as a heretic for potensial opposition against the political lrole of the papacy. Excluded from any form of amnesty and pardon he is damned. This part seeks to voice the poets contest with his own fears about sin against the papacy. The violent, like those commited against people and property,theirown self i.e. suicice and that against God, nature and the art i.e. blasphemers, sodomites and the usurers are punished in the seventh circle, and guarded by

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Chilean miners Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Chilean miners - Research Paper Example Firstly, the mode of communicating the message about this horrifying incident must be face-to-face as after receiving this news, the families of the victims would need instant physical support and care. Furthermore, in order for the families to stay strong and not lose hope, the news must be broken to them in a manner that helps them in reassuring their selves that nothing terrible is going to happen. For this, it is highly significant for the news breaker(s) to paraphrase their message considering the expected response from the family members after getting the news i.e. the message must include what the rescue workers are capable of doing in order to help the trapped men. Moreover, it is also very important for the people who are going to deliver the message to have patience and to be available as much as possible for the families. It is essential because as soon as the family members will receive this news, they will come up with a variety of questions regarding the safety and well being of their loved ones who are trapped underground and they will be looking forward to the people involved in this matter (the company authorities, rescue workers, the government of Chile, etc.) for all their questions to be heard and answered properly. Many a times when such incidents happen, it has been observed that the people who are responsible for providing endless support to the family members of the victims try to escape from the situation only so that they will not have to answer each and every question that is being asked and also because they have a fear of being accused to be responsible for the incident. Unfortunately, such acts contribute in worsening the already awful state of the victims’ families as all they need during such hard times is to have people around them to cater their worrisome anticipations, such behavior should be strictly avoided. Furthermore, it is also necessary to enlighten the family members regarding the facilities such as drilling narr ow holes up to the level through which air, food, fluorescent lights with timers, games, and other helpful necessities can be supplied down to the trapped men along with exchange of messages (â€Å"Trapped in a Chilean Mine†, 2010) in order to help them survive inside the darkness; which the rescue workers are able to competently provide as this will be helpful in bringing and strengthening the hope in the hearts of families. Moreover, keeping the families up to date with the progress of rescue work is another vital factor to be kept in mind but care should be taken in order to steer clear of giving any kind of false hopes as these would only make the loss, if any, more unbearable to the families at the end. Another important measure to be taken is that of providing professional help of psychologists to the families who are going through this difficult time. It is important for keeping them in healthy mental states (â€Å"Trapped Chilean Miners†, 2010) so that they can learn different coping strategies to survive in this stressful time and also can prepare themselves to accept and deal with whatever is hidden for them in the near future. An added help to cater the needs of the suffering family members would be that of telling them the real stories of successful survivors of similar incidents. What would be the potential needs of the company’s employees when receiving a message about this incident? As in the case of breaking the news to the family members of the trapped men, it would be better if the employees of the company are also given the message about this incident face-to-face instead of using any other mode of communication. It is important because while giving out such sensitive messages, it is always better for the person giving the message to be able to observe the reactions (both verbal and non-verbal) of the message receivers in order to be able to modify the tone and delivery

Sunday, October 27, 2019

HR Strategy of Barclays Bank

HR Strategy of Barclays Bank Identify the organisations overall HR strategy and goals Specifically, Barclays outlined the core objectives of its overall HR strategy in its online job portal: To ensure that our people programmes are aligned with the Barclays Commercial Bank business strategy. To train and retain, as well as acquire the best talent in the market. To make Barclays the employer of choice for people in the industry and ensure those already with us will have no intention of leaving. To ensure we have the right people, in the right jobs, doing the right work. (Barclays Bank) From the objectives strategy, one sees that the overall Human Resources strategy of Barclays Bank is guided by two fundamental factors: First, the HR strategy is about governance directed at managing the sheer number and diversity of its employees so that they all function and work according to and towards achieving the organizations business objectives. This is particularly important because Barclays employs more than 123,000 people across the globe (Barclays 2009), covering a wide variety of subsidiaries. Secondly, the HR strategy is, certainly, aimed at attracting, developing and retaining the best people available. In regard to employee development and training in the context of the first dimension to Barclays overall HR strategy the people management a formal learning process has been developed and put in place by the banks human resources managers. The aim here is to instill the behaviors and values seen as pivotal in achieving corporate goals. This HR programme involves basic training in how teams work together, personality profiling, and preferred learning styles. (Ostroff 1999, p. 122) According to Mike Ockenden, a former managing director at Barclays, HR is trying to create a spirit that says we are all one group of people working together towards the customer imperative. (Ostroff, p. 122) In addition, numerous other trainings are continually developed ranging from mentoring programmes, training on new technologies, operational methodologies, courses on team-work, to communication efficiency modules. When it comes to the objective to attract, train and retain the best people, specific programs and initiatives have been introduced. Our people, according to the organization, are the foundation of Barclays success. Its as simple as that. We want the most talented, whatever their style, personality, age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. (Barclays 2009) Indeed, the organization implements a policy of diversity and equality in the workplace. Furthermore, the Barclays corporate culture resembles democratized structure: nobody has a private office, nor are there executive parking spaces; employees sit in the same size chairs behind the same size desks; titles are forbidden, and employees use first names when they address one another. (Ostroff, p. 121) This culture creates a conducive environment for innovation and that it promotes and maintains a system that values everyones contribution. Barclays maintains: We promote an inclusive culture where colleagues of all backgrounds are respected and the different perspectives and fresh ideas they can bring to the business are valued. (Barclays 2009) Barclays have also experimented with competency-based pay systems which were expected to provide clarity about how employees can add value through their respective roles in the organization and motivation to perform better. (Holbeche 2009, p. 148) The company boasts of offering one of the highest salary schemes in the industry. The benefits package is consisted of: 1. Financial reward such as competitive salary, discretionary bonuses and recognition schemes wherein employees could receive performance-based gifts and expensive perks; 2) discounts in privileges on Barclays financial services and Barclays shares; 3) health, well-being and retirement benefits. At Barclays, employees also have the option to have flexible work schedules such as part-time work, compressed working week, job-sharing and a nine day fortnight, among others. Then, the organization has also set up a corporate social responsibility policy that aims to boost employee morale and made them proud to work for the company. This policy is contained in the companys sustainability strategy which focuses on three areas: helping address social issues, investing in community initiatives, and volunteerism. In assessing whether Barclays overall human resources strategy and objectives, one needs to look at the statistics. According to Ostroff: The company is meeting its goal of increasing national market share by at least one percentage point each year. This figure represents approximately an 18 percent increase in revenues and a 20 percent increase in profits What is more, Barclays is beating the competition by spending less. (p. 119) Barclays has achieved many of its successes partly because it was able to develop and implement a sound HR strategy and objectives, which are characterized by excellent people management.