Working thesis! Oliver vs. Branagh

Oliver's black and white portrayal of Shakespeare's Hamlet pays homage to the play's original simplicity through the specific use of lighting which subtly allows the audience to focus on Shakespeare's powerful use of language; Branagh utilizes an elaborate setting and bright colors to not only compliment the relationship of the characters in the play, but also the work of Oliver.

Modernization!

I think when a director decides to modernize the setting it really makes a difference. The audience is able to connect more with the play itself instead of viewing it as a boring old play. Its a great device for the movie itself.

Suspense!

I can not wait for the fight between Laertes and Hamlet. The fact that both Hamlet and Laertes are fighting for their fathers's (as well as Laertes for his sister's) revenge creates a lot of suspense before the duel. I wonder if Shakespeare will put a dramatic twist on the end of the duel like he often does. Either way, the ending of the play should be very exciting.

Ophelia's Tragic Death

I feel like Shakespeare purposefuly made Ophelia have a tragic death. Her death parallels the tragic ,twisted, life she was currently living in. Ophelia's death also draws the audience into the play, keeping them at the edge of their seat.

Ophelia

I wonder what Ophelia will do in reaction to Hamlet murdering her father. I hope it is something exciting and dramatic. Even though it seemed like I was asleep yesterday (I WAS NOT), I enjoyed to comflict between Hamlet and his mother. The play is headed in an exciting direction.

Hamlet

I really like the way the play is headed. Hamlet is my favorite character right now because of how interesting he makes situations. Whether it is with Claudius or Ophelia, Hamlet always stirs conflict into a situation. I really want to know what will happen in England with Hamlet, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern. Im excited to read the rest of the play.

Hamlet Intro

Is all actually fair in love and war? Shakespeare's "Hamlet" explores the tragic relationship between two young lovers who are stuck in the middle of an internally vulnerable kingdom. Insecurity is not only stirred within the royal family; but also, there is a lot of conflict in the family of Polonius and Ophelia. Shakespeare utilizes the contrasting personalities of Ophelia and Polonius to emphasize their flawed father-daughter relationship; Ophelia's obedient short responses reveal her subconscious rejection to her father's controlling demands while Polonius' contradicting, exaggerated, language illustrates how he never truly controls a situation.

Thesis: SORRY IT'S LATE!

Shakespeare utilizes the contrasting personalities of Ophelia and Polonius to emphasize their flawed father-daughter relationship; Ophelia's obedient short responses reveal her subconscious rejection to her father's controlling demands while Polonius' contradicting, exaggerated, language illustrates how he never truly controls a situation.

Hamlet post 2

I feel really bad for Ophelia because she is a hopeless romantic. No matter how much she wants to be herself, sh cant because she is obedient to her father. Even though she listens, her brother and father still beat her down will insults about Hamlet.

Hamlet post 1

In the play I think it's sad how Hamlet so desperately seeks to know about his father. He stops at nothing to get information involving his dad. Even threatening the lives of his associates. I feel bad because the more he tries to find out, the harder the search becomes.

Homework: Taking the Field

"Women are sexy props or prizes for men's successful sports performances and consumption choices." (114) This quote directly relates to the sad but true position of women in the sports realm today. Aside from a couple exceptions, most women are portrayed to be these "sexy props or prizes" for successful atheletes. Most women are not only trapped in the women bubble in sports but also use this same idea as an escape. A women dating or even marrying a successful athlete can push her to the top of the public eye. Even though this abuse of the situation occurs occasionally, it is still upsetting that women are stuck in a lower position in the sports world.

Homework response: Taking the Field

I think it is unfair how much publicity was put on the Brandi Chastain. Looking back at the situation now, it's hard to believe that while male swimmers walk around on television half naked, a female soccer CHAMPION can't take off her jersey (still being covered) after a tough game. I think it was only a big deal then because society has only started to become more liberal over the past few years. There is more understanding for women now that was certainly not present a decade ago. With Miley Cyrus and other "Pop" stars dancing basically nude on national broadcasts, I think now it would be no big deal if Brandi Chastain were to take her jersey off.

Basketball Poems

Title: Pure Passion Thesis: Even thought both poems emphasize passion for basketball, the broken down and fragmented structure of "Slam, Dunk & Hook" completely contrasts the fluid nature of the single sentecne play by play in "Fast Break"; the contrast in the structure parallels the difference in the two poet's personal views of the game.