Integrated Perspective in Medieval Literature

In progressing through this course, I have gained a deeper understanding of how differing perspectives can vastly alter the significance of a piece of literature regardless of its age and level of coverage by literary scholars. Being given the opportunity to read Othello and immediately follow it up with American Moor, I was able to… Read more Integrated Perspective in Medieval Literature

Gender Parity as the Foundation for Utopia

Explorations into the concept of utopian society tend to prioritize observation over explanation.  Generally speaking, a Utopia features “no heaven… no hell… no countries… no religion… no possessions… no need for greed or hunger… a brotherhood of man,” and a world that “will live as one” (Lennon).  This emphasis on the elimination of manmade societal… Read more Gender Parity as the Foundation for Utopia

“The Blazing World” 1-30 question

The first section of Cavendish’s The Blazing World is primarily a description of the Blazing-World and its inhabitants. The society the Lady finds herself welcomed into–and, shortly thereafter, made to rule over–is said to be utterly distinct from any European civilization. These details in particular led me to formulate a question regarding Cavendish’s possible social… Read more “The Blazing World” 1-30 question

Paradise Lost Book 9/Wollstonecraft Question

Mary Wollstonecraft’s criticism of Paradise Lost asserts that Milton’s depiction of Eve grants her—and, consequently, all women—minimal authority in life alongside men. She writes that “Women are told from their infancy, and taught by the example of their mothers, that a little knowledge of human weakness, justly termed cunning, softness of temper, outward obedience, and a scrupulous… Read more Paradise Lost Book 9/Wollstonecraft Question