Macbeth - Thinking Activity

Hello Readers, 

This blog is a type of thinking activity which one assigned by Barad Sir ( Professor of Department of English at MKB University). Here you find some Q&A about the play Macbeth with reference of the screening of this play.

Here you can find the whole context of writing this blog CLICK HERE .

 MCQ:

What is the genre of Shakespeare's play "Macbeth"?

a) Comedy

b) Tragedy 

C) Romance

d) History

Ans : b

Which of the following best describes Macbeth's tragic flaw?

a) Ambition

b) Kindness

c) Honesty

 d) Patience

Ans  : a

The witches' prophecies play a significant role in Macbeth's downfall. What is the primary theme associated with these prophecies?

a) Love 

b) Power

c) Justice 

d) Friendship

Ans : b

Lady Macbeth's sleepwalking scene is a turning point in the play. What emotion is she struggling with during this scene?

a) Joy

b) Fear

c) Guilt 

d) Anger

Ans : c

Short answer questions:

1. Describe the symbolic significance of the opening scenes in Act I & IV involving the three witches in the play "Macbeth."

Ans : In the opening scenes of Act I and Act IV of "Macbeth," the three witches hold significant symbolic importance. In Act I, their presence sets the tone for the entire play, foreshadowing the dark and malevolent events that will unfold. They symbolize chaos, the supernatural, and the disruption of the natural order.

In Act IV, their appearance before Macbeth signifies his growing desperation and the escalation of his ruthless ambitions. Their prophecies and apparitions symbolize Macbeth's increasing obsession with power and his descent into madness. Overall, the witches serve as symbols of the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition and the disruption of moral and social order.

2. How does Macbeth's ambition lead to his moral deterioration throughout the play? Provide examples from the play to support your answer.

Ans : Macbeth's ambition pushes him to commit murders and betray his values, leading to his moral decline. He goes from a noble figure to a ruthless tyrant, as seen in his actions like killing Duncan, Banquo, and Macduff's family. His ambition consumes him, eroding his conscience and driving him toward his tragic end.

3. In what ways does the motif of 'blood' serve as a symbol in "Macbeth"? Explain its significance in relation to guilt and violence. ("Blood' is mentioned around 40 times in the play).

Ans :  Blood can be considered as motif of violence and extreme aggregation or guilt  as well. Macbeth has all these tendencies.         So, blood literary serve as symbol of Macbeth. Macbeth's ruthless ambition was blind and because of that he disrupts his moral values and the consequences of this ends up with Macbeth in sheer guilt.

4. Discuss the impact of the supernatural elements, such as the witches and prophecies, on the plot and characters of "Macbeth."

Ans : The supernatural elements in "Macbeth," such as the witches and prophecies, play a crucial role in driving the plot and influencing the characters. The witches' prophecies ignite Macbeth's ambition, leading him to commit regicide and set off a chain of tragic events. The supernatural elements create an atmosphere of uncertainty, fate, and manipulation, highlighting the theme of the corrupting power of unchecked ambition. Additionally, the presence of the supernatural contributes to the deterioration of Macbeth's mental state and the unraveling of his morality as he becomes more entangled with his own desires and paranoia. Lady Macbeth's own descent into madness is also linked to the supernatural elements, as her involvement in the murder plot and her attempts to control her husband's actions take a toll on her conscience. Overall, the supernatural elements serve as catalysts for the characters' downfall, reflecting the consequences of human ambition and the distortion of reality.

5. Compare and contrast the characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. How dotheir personalities and motivations contribute to the unfolding of the tragedy?

Ans : Macbeth is initially honorable but consumed by ambition, leading to his descent into tyranny. Lady Macbeth is manipulative and power-hungry, but guilt drives her to madness and suicide. Their motivations and actions are quite contradictory but somewhat similar also and that intertwine, fueling the tragic events of the play.

Some pictures of the screening :

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Thinking Task of Neo-Classical Age

 Define the various Questions from Neoclassical Age :-

Hello everyone, 

This blog is based upon Thinking Task of Neo-classical Age assigned by Vaidehi Ma'ma.

Q-1:- Compare the general characteristics of the Elizabethan age and Neo-classical age.

The Elizabethan Age (1558-1603) was marked by artistic flourishing, exploration, and the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. It saw the rise of Shakespearean drama, the English Renaissance, and a fascination with exploration and new knowledge.

  The Neoclassical Age (1660-1798) followed, emphasizing reason, order, and imitation of classical art forms. It was characterized by a focus on reason, clarity, and moral values, often drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman literature and art. This period gave rise to writers like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift.

  Both ages had distinct cultural and artistic trends, but they both contributed significantly to shaping the literary landscape of their respective eras.

Q-2:- Who is your favorite writer and favorite text from the Neo-Classical Age ? How is she or he different from writers of the Elizabethan and Romantic Ages ?

Favorite Writer :

My personal favorite writer from the Neo-Classical Age is Jonathan Swift(1667-1745). Johnathan Swift played a very significant role during this period. I like the most Swift's style of writing. Jonathan Swift's style of writing is very much impressive for readers and learners. Jonathan Swift was a very prominent writer during this age.  Jonathan Swift was a master of two styles of satire, the horation and juvenelian styles. Swift's most of his works written in satire and all of them very famous and really interesting to read. Jonathan Swift is my favorite writer because, I like the most Swift's style of writing, thinking process, view of assumption, power of entertainment, content power and many other remarkable concept of him. Swift's creation (Satire) is mostly known as 'Swiftian'.

 

Favorite Text :

My favorite text from Neoclassical Age that is "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift. This text I like very much to read. It's very attractive works by Jonathan Swift. I believe in that this work is very impulsing for people.  This text Gulliver's Travels concept connected with one Bollywood movie name "Jajantaram Mamantaram."

Gulliver's Travels published in the year 1726. This work is a satirical work. This is the first novel of English Literature. In this satire we can identify the struggle of Lemuel Gulliver. Gulliver love to do traveling in whole world and he like to explore the world. And it's very interesting story to read. Gulliver taller than every human. When he was in Brobdingnag at that time people putting Gulliver in the box and the people threw the box out. Then one bird take this box and throw in England. As the same he reached every four countries step by step.

At the end of the story he doesn't want to live with human and then he start living with horses. Gulliver's Travels is not for entertainment purposes but it is satire work on politicians, scientists, philosophers and English people. I really enjoyed this satire work by Jonathan Swift.

How is he different from other writers :

Jonathan Swift was very different writer from Elizabethan Age and Romantic Age writers. Jonathan Swift think about the readers as well as reality. He was worked on actual moments and believed in express originality towards people. Jonathan Swift tried to coverup every possible things in his works of art. Swift's ironic and innovative writing style attract towards people to read their works.

Q-4:- Describe any one thing about this age that you look up to.

I look in this age that is, The age of Enlightenment. Enlightenment provide a various stages to believe in reality and delight ness. Enlightenment is a huge thought to create imitation of new classics, Rationalism, concept of man and many more valuable aspects. Enlightenment is a power to get knowledge about such kind of classics, new texts, new revolution, etc. Enlightenment is a power to create something new and exciting for the representative of the era. 

Q-3:- Share your presentation presented in class. attach it with your blog.

Work Cited :

Wikipedia

YouTube

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Navigating Plato's Objections: Freedom of Expression and Artistic Liberty

 

In the realm of creative expression, the clash between the unrestricted freedom of artists and the boundaries of societal norms has long been a topic of debate. One of the most notable dissenters to unbridled artistic liberty was the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. In his works, particularly in "The Republic" and "Ion," Plato raised objections to the extent of freedom artists should enjoy in their creations. As we delve into Plato's objections, we'll examine how they resonate with contemporary examples of literature, movies, and other forms of art.

Plato's Objections to Artistic Liberty: A Brief Overview

Plato, a disciple of Socrates, believed that art has a powerful influence on society, shaping people's perceptions, values, and behaviors. He raised concerns about how art could potentially manipulate emotions and distort reality. He argued that the poet or artist, while portraying various characters and situations, might not be in complete control of the ethical and moral implications of their creations. This, Plato believed, could lead to the erosion of virtuous living and corrupt the minds of the audience.

The Reprehensible and the Ban-Worthy: Plato's Perspective

Plato's objections can be scrutinized through his belief that certain works of art might be morally harmful to the society and its citizens. Taking this perspective, there are indeed contemporary texts that could be subjected to Plato's objections:

1. Extreme Gratuitous Violence in Movies: Certain films, by dwelling excessively on violence, gore, and sadism, can potentially desensitize viewers to the pain and suffering of others. This, according to Plato, could erode empathy and contribute to a more callous society.
2. Misogynistic Content in Music: Some song lyrics and music videos perpetuate derogatory and harmful stereotypes about women. Plato's concerns about the impact of art on societal values could find resonance here, as such content might normalize harmful attitudes towards gender.
3. Propaganda and Misinformation in Literature: While fiction often involves speculative and imaginative elements, it's not immune to promoting propaganda or misinformation. Plato would likely object to works that distort facts to push a certain narrative, potentially misleading readers.
4. Exploitative Reality TV Shows: Plato's concerns about art affecting virtues could apply to reality TV shows that encourage manipulation, deceit, and humiliation for entertainment. These shows might influence viewers to prioritize self-interest over ethics.
5. Glorification of Criminal Behavior in Literature and Film: Works that romanticize criminal behavior without proper moral exploration might clash with Plato's emphasis on ethical reflection through art.

Balancing Act: Defending Artistic Freedom

While considering Plato's objections, it's crucial to also champion artistic freedom and the value of diverse creative expression. Many artists use their work as a medium for social commentary, reflection on human nature, and catalysts for change. Some counterarguments to Plato's objections could include:

1. Art as a Mirror: Art can serve as a mirror that reflects the complexities of society, providing opportunities for self-awareness and growth.
2. Catharsis and Healing: Tragedies and difficult themes in art can offer catharsis and emotional release, leading to personal healing and societal enlightenment.
3. Freedom of Interpretation: Art's open-ended nature allows multiple interpretations, enabling individuals to engage critically with the content and draw their own conclusions.
4. Evolution of Society: Art can push societal boundaries, challenging conventions and fostering growth and transformation.

Conclusion :

Plato's objections to the extent of freedom enjoyed by creative writers and artists are still relevant in our contemporary world. However, navigating this complex terrain requires a delicate balance between the preservation of ethical values and the promotion of diverse, thought-provoking expression. As we engage with the creative works of today, it's essential to ponder Plato's concerns while also acknowledging the vital role that artistic liberty plays in shaping our culture and society.

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Imagination : A Photography Workshop

 Imagination : An Art of Seeing 

 

Hello everyone, 

On 17th August 2023 the most informative "Photography Workshop" organized by the Department of English (MKB University). It's glad to be present to this amazing photography workshop. A wild life photographer & Filmmaker Mr. Kaushik Ghelani Sir was a tutor and guide of this workshop. This workshop helped a lot to learn about the photography. 

During the inaugural session, Kaushik sir urged us to converse, contemplate, and enact, exemplifying the evolution of a plant. Cultivating one's artistic sensibilities demands a unique perspective, as photography, like life itself, resists being taught conventionally. The chasm between capturing an image and serendipitously seizing a moment is vast, bridged only by the aesthetic essence that orchestrates a photograph's symphony.

There are so many new features learn from Mr. Kaushik Ghelani sir and by this Photography workshop. It was great experience to attended the photography workshop. I really got very well valuable knowledge about photography. What I learnt from this photography workshop ? I discuss in detail as per below.

Meaning of the photography :

The word Photography literally means 'drawing with light', which derives from the Greek photo, meaning light and graph, meaning to draw. Photography is the process of recording an image – a photograph – on light sensitive film or, in the case of digital photography, via a digital electronic or magnetic memory. This is the meaning of photography. Now at the below we see some information about the photography according Mr. Kaushik Ghelani,

Some Informative points :

"Learning is a very interesting aspect to achieve our goals." Learning is a first step to connect with our dreams. I have learn about many qualities of photography from Mr. Kaushik Ghelani sir. There are like...

• Aesthetic of photography
• Learn how to see
• Central Rule
• Leading Lines
• Head/Leading Room 
• Depth of Field
• Break the Rule

There are all very significant steps for better photography. All important rules taught by Mr. Kaushik Ghelani sir. It's very interesting and powerful rules to take a great photos and make photos valuable. I have observed one thing from Mr. Kaushik Ghelani sir that is,

Photography is a subject of

"How you see the subject?"

"How you think about that?"

For the perfection in the photography we have to know some basics about the photography like line, shape, form, texture, color, size, depth and also most important thing is angle. Now at this part some perfect examples portraits according this theory at below,

Some photographs for example :

Now at the ending of  the whole workshop with the group we ended this workshop , This gave many important information about the photography and also about the wild life photography.

 Thank you 🙏

Review of bollywood movie Haider as an adaptation of Shakesperean play Hamlet

This blog is based on the thinking activity assigned by Barad sir. Here you can find some of the basic information about the movie Haider and review of this movie as an adaptation of Shakespeare's play "Hamlet".

           Hello everyone, 

           Introduction :

           Vishal Bhardwaj's Haider (2014), an Indian film based on Hamlet. That is set in the contested Kashmir region during a volatile period in the 1990s, constructs one notable  backdoor out of the play's bleak ending. At the end of Haider, the eponymous Hamlet - figure walks away alive. 

• Movie     :  Haider (2014)
• Director : Vishal Bhardwaj
• Story by : Vishal Bhardwaj, Basharat Peer
• Genre     : Action, Crime, Drama. 
• Based on: Hamlet (Shakespearian play)

Summary :  

                                                                                                                                                                                    Haider movie is said to be an Indian adaptation of Shakespeare's Hamlet . The movie is shot in picturesque Kashmir and is completely based on past and present of Kashmir. This film is a modern adaptation of Hamlet, set during the Kashmir conflicts of 1995 in the valley of Kashmir, Haider is the story of a young man with the same name who returns homes in Kashmir (from Aligarh) after getting aware of his father's disappearance.  

              Haider - a young man returns home to Kashmir on receiving news of his father's disappearance. Not only does he learn that security forces have detained his father for harboring militants, but that his mother is in a relationship with his very own uncle.

           Intense drama follows between mother and son as both struggle to come to terms with news of his father's death. Soon Haider learns that his uncle is responsible for the gruesome murder, what follows is his journey to avenge his father's death. 

Similarities between Haider and Hamlet :

           There are many similarities the both have like, The horrors of Kashmir are reflective of the tragic elements in the original source text. The eternal theme of Hamlet, such as betrayal, corruption, death, love and filial obedience are beautifully woven with the plot of Haider.

Characters similarities :

Actor	Role	Based on
Shahid Kapoor	Haider Meer	Prince Hamlet
Tabu	Ghazala Meer (Haider's Mother)	Gertrude
Kay Kay Menon	Khurram Meer (Haider's Paternal Uncle)	Claudius
Shraddha Kapoor	Arshia Lone	Ophelia/Horatio
Irrfan Khan	Roohdaar	Ghost
Narendra Jha	Dr. Hilaal Meer (Haider's Father)	King Hamlet
Kulbhushan Kharbanda	Hussain Meer
Lalit Parimoo	Pervez Lone	Polonius
Ashish Vidyarthi	Brigadier T. S. Murthy
Aamir Bashir	Liyaqat Lone	Laertes
Sumit Kaul	Salman 1, Courtier	Rosencrantz
Rajat Bhagat	Salman 2, Courtier	Guildenstern
Ashwath Bhatt	Zahoor Hussain	Fortinbras
Mohammad Shah	Army Major
Anshuman Malhotra	Young Haider
Lankesh Bhardwaj	Interrogation officer
Saqib Sheikh	Chocolate boy

Review :

Haider is brilliance on screen. Vishal Bhardwaj couldn't have made a better Hamlet adaptation. I don't think that any review can do full justice to this film and mine certainly will not either. But here I try to describe some of mine point of view about this film at under this para.

There are no poor performances in this movie. there are no awkward moments, no unsaid lines, nothing that should have been different than what it was. As complex as the story and every single character was in the film, it is inconsistently perfect, just as Shakespeare wanted Hamlet to be.

Like I said, there are no poor performances. We will never see Shahid Kapoor the same way again after Haider. Shahid Kapoor is amazing in every single scene and Shraddha Kapoor was another name who shows her capacity as an actor in this film. Arshia's character was perfectly played by her. Tabu as Ghazala was also amazing in whole movie. Kay Kay Menon and Irfan also did well.

Vishal Bhardwaj has changed the ending of the play though. And I think he might have done that because he did not want to just make Hamlet adaptation. I think he also wanted to give a massage about Kashmir and all that Kashmiris have suffered in the past several decades. he wanted to end the story with a little more hope.

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Reference :

• Haider movie (Wikipedia) : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haider_%28film%29
• Haider movie.