Charles Dickens Hard Times Analysis

Charles Dickens Hard Times Analysis Charles Dickens Hard Times focuses on the numerous relationships and interactions between characters, and the impact that people have on the behaviour of others. It is evident throughout the novel that several of these relationships are one-sided, in the sense that they are merely in the interest of one of the two parties. For instance, Toms influence over Louisa allows him to manipulate her for his own good. Similarly, James Harthouses pursuit of Louisas affection is not out of love, but simply out of aristocratic boredom. Rachels influence on Stephen Blackpool allows him to maintain his integrity and honour. Finally, Sissy Jupes impact on the Gradgrind family is all give and no take, as her broad imagination allows the family to finally realize that life is not merely about the theory of fact. The most obvious example of a one-sided relationship in Hard Times is the one between siblings Tom and Louisa. This relationship is far from mutually beneficial, as Tom continually takes advantage of his sister, solely for his own interests. The constant teachings of fact have made Toms life empty and mundane. Although Tom is tempted by creativity of the circus, he displays little emotion upon being disciplined by his father: Indeed, Thomas did not look at him, but gave himself up to be taken home like a machine (15). Due to the constant strict teachings of fact by his father, Mr. Gradgrind, Tom begins to grow tired of this way of life. His interest in the circus is symbolic of his desire to detach from his father and his dull existence. By embracing a somewhat hedonistic lifestyle, frequently drinking and gambling, Tom finds a sense of freedom. He wants to escape the dull lifestyle and teachings of the Gradgrind household and experience a new way of life. Tom and Louisa love each ot her deeply; however, Tom uses his sisters love for him in order to manipulate her to do as he desires. Louisas strict upbringing prevents her from truly questioning Toms motives, allowing for her brother to take advantage of Louisas love for him by manipulating her into marrying Bounderby for his own gain. As Toms requests grow in number and in nature, the two grow further apart. The relationship shared by the two is filled with affection at the beginning of the novel, but Toms selfishness tears the relationship apart. He keeps Louisa in the dark regarding the bank robbery and, ultimately, his focus on materialism outweighs his feelings for his sister. Toms boredom with his lifestyle leads to radical changes in his attitude. A similar boredom leads James Harthouse to pursue Louisas love. Dickens uses the character of James Harthouse to poke fun at the aristocracy at the time. Harthouse comes to Coketown with the intention of entering the world of politics and embracing Gradgrinds theory of fact, simply out of boredom with his current life. He is a refined and wealthy gentleman from London, but as the old saying goes, money doesnt buy happiness, leaving Harthouse constantly searching for new ways to amuse himself. Upon hearing about Louisa Gradgrind, he immediately makes it his primary goal to seduce the young woman. Although Louisa is resistant, this makes her even more attractive to him. She is so intriguing to him because of her uniqueness. She represents a new blend of beauty and intelligence, and her knowledge of economics is unparalleled. By discussing Toms gambling debts with Louisa, he exploits one of her main weaknesses, her unconditional love for her brother. He merely uses Toms predicament to exploit Louisas inexperience in interpersonal relationships. Alth ough Harthouses pursuit of her helps lead to her eventual break-up with Bounderby, Sissy Jupe saves Louisa from the selfish, controlling Harthouse, when she demands that he leaves Coketown: He was touched in the cavity where his heart should have been in that nest of addled eggs, where the birds of heaven would have lived if they had not been whistled away by the fervor of this reproach (275). This passage exemplifies Harthouses lack of purpose in life. His great wealth and position as an aristocrat prevents him from every finding true love, as he will simply grow tired of stability. His lack of reluctance in leaving Coketown demonstrates how little Louisa truly means to Harthouse. Harthouses pursuit of Louisa is more of a quest for him to pass the time than it is about finding true love. His departure from Coketown reveals the little care he has for the feelings of others, as well as his selfishness and immorality. This is completely contrary to the relationship between Stephen B lackpool and Rachel. Stephen Blackpool is the quintessential example of a considerate and moral individual. Although he is forced to combat the difficult working conditions and dehumanizing lifestyle of a factory worker during the Industrial Revolution, Stephen maintains his morality and honesty, with the help of Rachel. Stephens home, which originally serves as a safe haven from the long working days, is taken over by his alcoholic wife, forcing Blackpool to drift around Coketown. Blackpools inability to acquire a divorce from his misery of a wife prevents him from moving away from his past troubles, but Rachel provides him with glimmers of hope and happiness, leading to him calling her his angel. She is the complete opposite of his current wife, displaying qualities of compassion and sensitivity. The epiphanic moment in the relationship between the two occurs when Rachel prevents Stephens wife from killing herself. Stephen wakes up and sees his wife ready to drink poison; however, he is psychologically unable to get up and prevent her from doing so: All this time, as if a spell were on him, he was motion-less and powerless, except to watch her (102). In that moment, Stephens frustration and sadness with his life overrides his usual strong morals. The stress his wife places upon him leaves him unable to control his desire to see her deceases or harmed. He is unable to bring himself to stop his wife from committing suicide, yet Rachel is. In doing so, Rachel motivates Stephen to uphold his strong character and honor, despite the hard times. Rachel cares for his wife and plays a vital role in pushing Stephen to pursue his legitimate interests as both a worker and a gentleman. While his fellow workers abandon Stephen due to his beliefs about the union, Rachel supports him until the very end, when he dies essentially for Toms crime. Although Stephens death allows him to escape from his dreadful marriage, he leaves Rachel alone and saddened. Rachel is the driving force behind Stephens actions in the novel and allows him to maintain his true beliefs and morals about work and life. Much as Rachel encourages Stephen to pursue his true beliefs, Sissy Jupe enlightens the Gradgrind family of imagination and thinking. Sissy Jupes impact on the Gradgrind family is the most important relationship in the novel. The strict teachings of Thomas Gradgrind turn the household into one giant machine of fact, whereas Sissys upbringing in the circus has allowed for her constant indulgence in imagination. The contrast between Louisa and Sissy in clear; Louisa has been forced to think with her head, while Sissy thinks with her heart. Louisa hasnt been allowed to be passionate about anything, and her submergence in fact has contained her desire for freedom. Sissy plays a vital role in enabling Louisa to reveal the warm and passionate qualities she has inside of her, despite being brought up in such as cold atmosphere. In fact, Sissys romantic way of thinking eventually allows the entire Gradgrind household to realize that there is more to life than merely fact. Thomas Gradgrind is initially disappointed by the circus entertainers and they represent imagination and idealism. These entertainers use their imaginati ons to find happiness, something that has always been lacking in the Gradgrind household. Sissys vast imagination and optimism is displayed by her belief that her father has abandoned her only to try and improve Sissys life. She expresses these sentiments to herself, maintain the belief that her father will one day return to her: O my dear father, my good kind father, where are you gone ? Tou are goue to try to do me some good, I know! Tou are gone away for my sake, I am sure. And how miserable and helpless you will be without me, poor, poor father, until you come back! (44). Sissys belief that he father has left the circus for her well-being starkly contrasts with Gradgrinds teaching of fact. That being said, this attitude epitomizes Sissys hopeful way of thinking, which eventually brushes off on the Gradgrind household. Not only does Sissy help Tom find refuge with her old circus entertainers, but she also helps Mrs. Gradgrind recognize the void that has existed forever within the ir family, the lack of imagination within the household. While Mrs. Gradgrind is unable to clearly express this before her death, she recognizes these qualities in Sissy. Mr. Gradgrind ultimately finds out that his emphasis on fact has denied his family happiness for many years. Gradgrind accepts the fact that his teachings did not produce happiness; therefore, he appoints Sissy to aid in Louisas development as an individual. With Sissys help, Louisa is on the road to developing the ideal balance of fact and imagination. To conclude, Dickens novel discusses the social impact of the Industrial Revolution and the dehumanization of workers by machines. Much like the repetitive actions involved in working in factories dull the lives of the workers, the teachings of fact prevent characters from reaching their full potential. Louisas inability to express herself prevents her from stopping Toms exploitation of her love for him. Similarly, Louisa needs Sissy Jupe to send James Harthouse away from Coketown, as her cold upbringing has limited her ability to interact with others. Stephen Blackpool is the best example of an individual who has been dehumanized by the stress and working conditions of being a hand during the Industrial Revolution. Only with the help of his so-called angel, Rachel, is he able to maintain his morality and strong values. Finally, Sissy Jupe is arguably the most important character in the novel. Her impact on the Gradgrind family is extreme, as she allows Mr. and Mrs. Gradgrind to reco gnize that imagination is the key to happiness, not fact. While the relationships throughout the novel are often one-sided, the influence that each character has over others is essential in the demise of fact and the rise of critical thinking.

Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days Essay -- Around World 80 Da

Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days Jules Verne’s 19th century novel about the travels of the â€Å"eclectic† Phileas Fogg at first seems a quick read, an adventurous tale written in a light-hearted vernacular. Yet a close reading of passages, such as the paragraph at the beginning of chapter two, reveals more complex, latent themes amidst the pages of such â€Å"mass† fiction. An analysis of one passage in particular1 [1] suggests that this classic novel has little to do with travel, adventure and love, but rather that it makes a statement about the human condition. Fogg’s famous eighty-day challenge seems only a vessel, a means of transportation, to mask and guide his own inward journey. Verne’s earliest portrayals of Fogg reveal some of his peculiarities: an unnatural fixation on following routing and being on time, as well as meticulous attention for detail.2 [2] Yet Fogg’s apparent obsession with exactitude denies him any hint of individuality. According to Verne, Fogg is â€Å"so exact that he [is] never in a hurry†, â€Å"[makes] no superfluous gestures†, and â€Å"[is] never seen to be moved or agitated†.3 [3] He meticulously reads two papers each day without comment, avoids both confrontation and agreement, and is at once mysterious and predictable. Phileas Fogg seems, therefore, to exist in such a state of mediocrity and liminality, lacking defining or distinctive characteristics, that prior to accepting the challenge, he would fade from the reader’s view. Verne’s poetic prose further highlight Fogg’s early banality: â€Å"Phileas Fogg was indeed exactitude personified, and this was betrayed even in the expression of his very hands and feet†¦ the limbs themselves are expressive of the passions.† (Verne 14) .. ...ons do not match on a word-for-word basis. This is the passage as it appears in my versions: â€Å"Phileas Fogg was indeed exactitude personified, and this was betrayed even in the expression of his very hands and feet; for in men, as well as in animals, the limbs themselves are expression of the passions. He was so exact that he was never in a hurry, was always ready, and was economical in both steps and his motions. He never took one step too many, and always went to his destination by the shortest way; he made no superfluous gestures, and was never seen to be moved or agitated. He was the most deliberate person in the world, yet always arrived on time. He lived alone, and so to speak, outside of every social relation; and as he knew that in this world there must be friction, and since friction slows things down, he never rubbed against anybody.† (Verne 14-15)

New vs Traditional Teaching Methods :: Education

Becoming a rational citizen is a process that involves a series of lessons which are created to guide every person to create strong foundations for self-judgment and reasoning. Therefore, it is very important to find the right way to send this essential information to the students in order to promote creativity and efficiency for the new generations which are considered the drive to innovation, social and economic growth (V. S.Damodharan & V. Rengarajan 07).In this case, the measure of efficiency in teaching besides the material presented, narrows down to the process used in the teaching system. Frankly speaking, if we consider the available methods for teaching today, the debate will definitely occur between the old schooling system versus the new schooling system. Being told what to do to get an A isn’t just an experience that my friends and I have had in our years in elementary school but it’s also the main characteristic of the so-called old schooling system. This teaching method emphasizes the theoretical part of learning and it is mostly considered as â€Å"copy-paste† learning. This terminology means that the material explained in class is the teacher’s notes or a book (Damodharan & Rengarajan 04), from the students it is expected to know that information word by word if they want to have a good grade. Since the lessons are teacher oriented mostly, the students are the passive party in the classroom and that leads to less interaction between students in class and no critical thinking for issues being presented. Consequently this lack of discussion in class has a negative effect only on the student because it reduces the chances for feedback or context clarification while lecturing. Last but not least, teaching theory without putting it on life situations may cause students to lose interest in their studies since the system considers him/her just as a number in the class and not a valuable person who can contribute with valuable ideas for the community. Working in groups and having chances to discuss with each other about the lesson is the main characteristic of new schooling system. This teaching method emphasizes the importance of collaborating with each other and it helps students get more involved in cooperative learning.

Michael Moore Sicko

1.Michael Moore’s movie Sicko is so controversial because it makes people think. He went to Cuba and showed it, not as this horrible place that we’ve all be told but as a caring country willing to help our citizens. This movie proving that Universal Healthcare works in other countries makes people wonder why it has to be so difficult to have it here. The Unites States is suppose to be the most powerful country and yet so many Americans feel powerless when it comes to healthcare. 2.Some pros for Universal Healthcare are everyone would be covered. People would be healthier and live longer. Our poverty rate wouldn’t be as high because people wouldn’t be losing their homes because of medical bills. It would make businesses more productive because they wouldn’t have to carry insurance. Some cons for Universal healthcare are higher taxes. There is a longer wait for surgeries. All the people that work for the insurance companies would lose their jobs. 3.Some relative changes in healthcare because of the Universal Healthcare Bill are not having to wait or being denied because of a pre-existing condition. You will no longer have a higher rate because of your health status. Insurance companies wouldn’t be able to cancel your policy due to an adverse health condition. Children will be covered under their parents insurance policies until they are 27. New plans must cover check ups and preventative care with out co-pays. 4.Most Americans are concerned about the new law requiring almost everyone to have insurance. A lot of people simply can’t afford it although the new law is suppose to make it more affordable. Another concern is wait time to see a doctor. With more people seeing doctors there will be a longer wait time to get in and the less time the doctor has to spend with you in the room.

The Five Pillars of Islam – Shahadah

The Shahadah (profession of faith) What is it? Specific, religious description Shahadah (testimony, oath) (witness, to know and believe without suspicion) Summary and declaration of Muslim faith One enters Islamic faith when reciting the Kalima (statement of faith) â€Å"I bear witness that there is no other deity but, Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah† (in Arabic) Muslims recite the Kalima with understanding and full internal acceptance It is not sufficient for anyone to just recite these words but one should believe in it by heart with a firm convictionReciting the Kalima, they proclaim that : 1. Allah is the only God and Muhammad is his prophet; 2. accepts that this is true -> Should be constantly and consciously present in the heart of every muslim 3. and that they will obey all the commitments of Islam in their life These words are the first words newborns hear, and the last words heard by the dying. A Muslim lives with these sentences, hea rs them and utters them at least once every day Part of the ritual prayer in the 2nd pillar of IslamFor sunni Muslims, it is the first of the five pillars of faith; while the Shi’a connects it to their lists of pillars of faith The Shahadah has certain conditions that makes a person benefit from the Kalima (testimony of faith) 9 Conditions of the Shahadah: Knowledge (‘ilm) having the basic and general knowledge of the shahadah what this testimony concerns? As a normal person would have to know what they are testifying about when making an oath. because not knowing what you are testifying about is absolutely unacceptable.It would mean nothing, basically. Certainty (yaqeen) In Islam, any kind of doubt is similar to disbelief (Kufr) Muslims have to be certain of the truth of the Shahadah Allah describes the believers in the Qur’an â€Å"the (true) believers are those only who believe in Allah and His messenger and afterward doubt not, but strive with their wealth a nd their lives for the cause of Allah. Such are the sincere. â€Å"? (al-Hujjarat : 15). Muslims have to be certain of the truth of the Shahadah and that there is no sense of doubt or wavering of hearts. oubts and suspicions are more dangerous than lusts and desires for a person’s faith cure: is the sound knowledge of the Qur’an and Sunnah Acceptance (qabool) after knowing and being certain of the shahadah, one must accept it believer accepts the implications of the shahadah = also means believing in what the Qur’an states or by the Prophet without any questions asked whatever comes from Allah or Muhammad, a true Muslim believes in it as the truth Submission (Inqiyad) he actual physical enactment with the deeds of the shahadah duties to be performed with sincerity to Allah and seeking forgiveness and guidance from him the meaning of Islam itself, â€Å"the submission to the will and commands of Allah† eg. performing the five daily prayers as it is compul sory for them to do so; and reciting the Kalima everyday of their lives Truthfulness (as-sidq) saying the shahadah honestly. One to mean it. Hypocrites -> not believing in it but saying it to protect themselves and gaining something from doing so Sincerity (ikhlass) eaning of sincerity is opposite of shirk (nifaaq)->(avoiding or neglecting a duty or responsibility) when making the shahadah, must do it for the sake of Allah they are Muslims only for the sake of Allah, all of their actions are done only for the sake of Allah are they Muslims for their parents and would do whatever their parents would like them to do? or are they muslims for allah’s sake and would do whatever Allah wants them to do? Love (mahabbah) love of the shahadah, its meaning and being happy with it Denial of False worship orship only Allah and deny any false deities(Taghoot) Adherence (astaqeem) adherence or support of it until death reflects in the Hereafter the shahadah is a Muslim’s banner until death to be in complete state of surrender, submission, obedience to Allah Muftah ul Jennah (Key to Paradise) Proclaims it with sincerity and devotion and acts and lives in accordance to its requirements How and why is this pillar important for the everyday life of a muslim? Most important article of faith Reinforces(strengthens, promotes) the muslim faith and represents acceptance f Allah and Muhammad and the religion, Islam The significance of this declaration is the belief that the only purpose of life is to serve and obey Allah through the teachings and practices of Muhammad Reciting the Kalima is the most essential act of Islam The Second Pillar – Prayer The faithful perform ritual prayer – which is known as Salat – at least five times each day This the expression of gratitude and love towards Allah By practicing Salat is also the recognition of the greatness of Allah and the inferiority of man Prayer offers guidance and peace of mind for the faithfulTo pr epare for Sadat, Muslims perform wudu or ritual washing of the face, arms and feet. Formal prayer incorporates various postures such as standing, kneeling, bowing and touching one’s forehead to the ground. This demonstrates the act of submission and surrender before Allah The five prayer times are determined by the position of the sun in the sky, and not the clock, both men and women Muslims prayer at dawn, midday, mid afternoon, sunset and before going to bed. dawn; is known as fajr and is called when there is merely the slightest glimmer of light on the eastern horizon and homes are still in total darkness.The prayer must be performed before the sun appears over the horizon. It includes the words ‘prayer is better than sleep’ midday; is known as zuhr is just after the sun has reached its highest point or zenith mid afternoon; known as ‘asr, is just after the sun has reached the midpoint between the zenith and the western horizon sunset; known as the Maghr ib is performed when the sun has touched the western horizon Before bed; known as ‘isha when the last glimmer of red has faded from the western sky Muslims usually say their prayers on small prayer mat, known as sajjada, lways facing towards the holy city of Mecca. The recitation that is essential for every unit of every prayer is the al-Fatiha – the first chapter of the Qur’an. How to pray to Allah: Make sure your body and place of prayer are clean. Perform ablutions if necessary. Make the intention to perform your obligatory prayer. Standing, raise hands up and say â€Å"Allahu Akbar† (God is Most Great). Standing with hands folded over chest, recite the first chapter of the Qur'an in Arabic. Then recite any other verses of the Qur'an that you would like. Raise hands up, saying â€Å"Allahu Akbar. Bow, reciting three times, â€Å"Subhana rabbiyal adheem† (Glory be to my Lord Almighty). Rise to standing while reciting â€Å"Sam'i Allahu liman ham idah, Rabbana wa lakal hamd† (God hears those who call upon Him; Our Lord, praise be to You). Raise hands up, saying â€Å"Allahu Akbar. † Prostrate on the ground, reciting three times â€Å"Subhana Rabbiyal A'ala† (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High). Rise to a sitting position, saying â€Å"Allahu Akbar. † Prostrate again in the same manner. Rise to a standing position, saying â€Å"Allahu Akbar. † This concludes one rak'a (cycle or unit of prayer).Begin again from Step 3 for the second rak'a. After two rak'as, one remains sitting after the prostrations and recites the first part of the Tashahhud in Arabic. If the prayer is to be longer than these two rak'as, one now stands up and begins again to complete the prayer, sitting again after all rak'as have been completed. Recite the second part of the Tashahhud in Arabic. Turn to the right and say â€Å"Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah† (Peace be upon you and God's blessings). Turn to the left a nd repeat the greeting. This concludes the formal prayer. The third pillar of faith: The Poor Tax. Description:The Poor Tax is also known as Compulsory Charity or Zakat. It requires every financially stable Muslim to give to this charity. Zakat is viewed as â€Å"compulsory charity†, for those who have received their wealth from God are obligated to give to the community in need. Islam requires man to consider his personal wealth as belonging to Allah and, therefore, to set apart a portion for Him. No maximum limit has been prescribed, but a minimum limit has definitely been fixed. According to statutory Zakat, each individual must abide by this and spend a fixed minimum percentage of his wealth every year in the way prescribed by Allah.Zakat must be paid on different categories of property including gold, silver, money, livestock and agricultural produce. It also requires an annual contribution of 2. 5% of an individual’s wealth and assets. This money that is given as Zakat can only be used for certain specific things, like to support the poor and needy, free slaves and is a form of social security in a Muslim society. Importance: Islamics encourages the sharing of their wealth with others and helps people to stand on their own and become active members of society. In Arabic, Zakat literally means â€Å"purification† this is considered to purify one’s heart of greed.The Zakat is also a means of helping those poor Muslims. If all Muslims paid their taxes there would be no poverty in the world. It is a system made by Islamics to help poor people and to maintain balance between luxury and poverty. It’s main purpose is to discourage the accumulation of wealth within groups in society and to fix the uneven distribution of wealth in society. Zakat, first and foremost, makes it plain to people that their entire ‘possessions’ are gifts of Allah The Zakat has great importance in the life of Muslims: It is a test of their faithfulness.It tests how one will help a those in need with what they have been given by God’s wealth. It is obligatory for all muslims. Those who refuse to pay the Poor Tax have false claims about being Islamic It separates the believers from the non believers. Those who believe in God would not ignore their requirement to pay the Poor Tax A payment of the Zakat brings Muslims together. The money collected is spent for the welfare of needy persons It removes social evils. The poor tend to commit theft because of their lack of money and by giving them financial support the crime level is lowered.It spreads wealth throughout the community. It gets a proportion of the money that many richer Muslim’s keep hoarded and it is then circulated throughout the market Importance: Zakat is the third ‘pillar’ of Islam. Zakat means setting apart for Allah every year a certain portion of one’s savings and wealth (generally 2. 5 percent) and spending it upon reli gious duties and on needy members of the community. The fulfillment of this duty is, in fact, a kind of reminder that all one has is in trust for Allah. Man should, therefore, hold nothing back from Allah.Islam requires man to consider his personal wealth as belonging to Allah and, therefore, to set apart a portion for Him. No maximum limit has been prescribed, but a minimum limit has definitely been fixed. According to statutory Zakat, each individual must abide by this and spend a fixed minimum percentage of his wealth every year in the way prescribed by Allah. Zakat is a symbol of one’s obligation to recognize the rights of others and to be in sympathy with them in pain or in sorrow. Zakat, first and foremost, makes it plain to people that their entire ‘possessions’ are gifts of Allah.Zakat is an annual tax, or duty, in essence and spirit: it is recognition on the part of man of the share which Allah, and other men, have in his wealth. – Zakaah purifies and cleanses wealth, and purifies the soul from stinginess and miserliness. It strengthens the love between the rich and poor, takes away hatred, makes security prevail and brings happiness to the ummah happy. The Fourth Pillar: FASTING IN ISLAM: Who must fast? Fasting ramadan is compulsory upon every Muslim, male or female, who has these qualifications: 1. To be mentally and physically fir, which means to be sane and able 2.To be of full age, the age of puberty and discretion, which is normally about fourteen. Children under this age should be encouraged to start this good practice on easy levels, so when they reach the age of puberty they will be mentally and physically prepared to observe fasting. 3. To be present at one's permanent settlement, your hometown, one's farm, and one's business premises, etc. This means not to be on a journey of about fifty miles or more. 4. To be fairly certain that fasting is unlikely to cause you any harm, physical or mental, other than the normal reactions to hunger, thirst etc.Exemption from Fasting These said qualifications exclude the following categories: 1. Children under the age of puberty and discretion. 2. Insane people who are unaccountable for their deeds. People of these two categories are exempted from the duty of fist, and no compensation or any other substitute is enjoined on them. 3. Men and women who are too old and feeble to undertake the obligation of fast and bear its hardships. Such people are exempted from this duty, but they must offer, at least, one needy poor Muslim an average full meal or its value per person per day. . Sick people whose health is likely to be severely affected by the observance of fast. They may postpone the fast. as long as they are sick , to a later date and make up for it, a day for a day. 5. Travelers may break the fast temporarily during their travel only and make up for it in later days, a day for a day. 6. Pregnant women and women breast-feeding their children may also break the fast, if its observance is likely to endanger their own health or that of their infants. But they must make up for the fast at a delayed time, a day for a day. . Women in the -period of menstruation (of a maximum of ten days or of confinement (of a maximum of forty days). They must postpone the fast till recovery and then make up for it, a day for a day. General Recommendations ?It is strongly recommended by Prophet Muhammad to observe these practices especially during Ramadan: 1. To have a light meal before the break of the dawn, known as Suhoor. 2. To eat a few dates or start breaking the fast bu plain water right after sunset, saying this prayer Allah humma laka sumna, wa' ala rizqika aftarna. (O God! or your sake have we fasted and now we break the fast with the food you have given us). 3. To make your meals as light as possibe because, as the Prophet put it, the worst thing man can fill his stomach. 4. To observe the supererogatory prayer known as Taraweeh. 5. To exhange s ocial visits and intensify humanitarian services. 6. To increase the study and recitation of the Qur'an. 7. To exert the utmost in patience and humbleness. 8. To be extraordinarily cautious in using ones senses, one's mind and, especially, the tongue; to abstain from careless gossip and avoid all suspicious motions.No food, drink, smoke or sexual pleasures are aloud during this month of Ramadan. 5th Pillar of Islam: The Hajj Where did the belief originate from In Muslim belief, Mecca has a unique status that goes back to the dawn of time. The Qur’an tells the story of the disobedience of Adam and Eve, and their expulsion from the Garden of Eden for eating the forbidden fruit, in much the same way as does the book of Genesis. There are a number of popular stories about where they fell. One is that Adam fell on Sri Lanka, on the top of what is now known as Adam’s Peak, and that Eve fell in Arabia.They spent many years looking for and at last met each other on the site of one of the great rituals of the Hajj, not far from Mecca: the plain of Arafat. Millions of pilgrims congregate here each year. The word Arafat in popular etymology means ‘recognition’, and the plain has this name as the place where Adam and Eve at last met, recognised each other and were reunited. Adam built the original Ka’ba, to be known as the House of God—the first place of worship on earth. It thus preceded any other sacred site on earth. Description of pillarHajj (pilgrimage) is a great annual event for Muslims. Hajj is an important ritual worship that should be performed by any adult Muslim (man or woman) at least once in life if one can afford it physically, financialy and safely. There are many reasons for why Hajj is important and for why Muslims perform hajj. First of these reasons is that Hajj is the fifth pillar of the Islam 5 pillars. You as adult Muslim (man or woman) is required to perform hajj at least once in your life if you can afford it financially, physically, and safely.Hajj (pilgrimage) is a great annual event for Muslims. Hajj is an important ritual worship that should be performed by any adult Muslim (man or woman) at least once in life if one can afford it physically, financialy and safely. Performance of the rites of the pilgrimage to Mecca, the Hajj to the seventh to the 10th day of dhu’l-hajja (12th month of the muslim calendar) Obligation for every Muslim to visit Mecca once in there life, who is of age, and of stable health, who has the financial means Significance of pillarThe pilgrimage to Mecca is an important aspect of the Islamic religion. Every Muslim person with the financial means to go to Mecca are expected to visit the sacred site. Mecca is the birthplace of Muhammad but this is not the central reason for its importance to Muslim people. The central reason for the significance of the 5th pillar of Islam is that Mecca is considered by the Muslims as the city of God. At the centre of Me cca is the Sacred Mosque, built around the Ka’ba. Mecca has its own unique status as it goes back to the dawn of time.The Qur’an tells the story of the disobedience of Adam and Eve, and their expulsion from the Garden of Eden for eating the forbidden fruit, in much the same way as does the book of Genesis. Passage that relate to it The first House [of worship] established on earth is indeed that at Bakka [Mecca], [set there] as a blessing and guidance for all peoples. In it are signs that give testimony. [In it is] the place where Abraham stood. Whoever enters it is secure from harm. The Pilgrimage to the House is a duty humankind owes to God. (Sura 3:96–97) Proclaim to humankind the Pilgrimage! They will come to you on foot, hey will come on every scrawny camel, they will come from every distant valley to behold the blessings prepared for them and recite the name of God on the appointed days, [as they sacrifice] the beasts and cattle He has provided for them. T hen eat of these cattle, and feed the poor and destitute. (Sura 22:27–28) The ‘Five Pillars' of Islam are the foundation of Muslim life: Faith or belief in the Oneness of God and the finality of the prophethood of Muhammad; Establishment of the daily prayers; Concern for and almsgiving to the needy; Self-purification through fasting; and The pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.

Roy Lichtenstein (19231997), painter, sculptor, printmaker Research Paper

Roy Lichtenstein (19231997), painter, sculptor, printmaker - Research Paper Example Lichtenstein created a wide array of work and much of it has gained positions of prominence among art theorists. Predominantly his works implement traditional painting techniques, but he also implements cartoon-illustration methods. One of Lichtenstein’s prominent works is ‘Stepping Out’ (currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art). While the work is slightly obscure in meaning, it seems that objective meaning can be gleamed from thorough analysis. Specifically, Lichtenstein seems to have created this artwork to project societys stereotypes on women. Lichtenstein created the work in 1978 in New York City. This work implements Lichtenstein’s traditional comic book style, while adopting a slight cubist aesthetic. It is created with oil and magna on canvas and measures 86 x 70 in. Lila Acheson Wallace purchased the work in 1980. The work then passed through a series of accessions before finally becoming situated at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Aesthetic analysis of Lichtenstein’s ‘Stepping Out’ reveals a considerable number of insights. In terms of meaning, interpretations differ widely from different critics. Indeed, the very post-modern elements of the wo rk invite such multiple-critical voices. In terms of objective elements one recognizes that there is a degree of inter-textuality in the work. The male in the work is based on Fernand Leger’s 1944 painting ‘Three Musicians;’ however Lichtenstein’s version is the mirror image of Leger’s earlier work ("Metropolitan Museum of Art -- Stepping Out."). Additionally the female in the painting is clearly influenced by Picasso’s cubist style, in the multi-dimensional and slightly surrealist juxtapositions. In terms of the specific meaning the primary emphasis is the society’s stereotypes on women. This perspective has been supported by art theorists who note, â€Å"this work is a criticism of how a man has often wanted to see a woman

Euro Zone. Decision Making Process Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Euro Zone. Decision Making Process - Assignment Example The European Central Bank is responsible for undertaking monetary policy of the region zone. It is governed by the President and the board comprising of the heads of the central banks of nations. To keep inflation in control accounts for the principle task of the European Central Bank. Without any common representation, fiscal policies and governance of the current union and other decisions are take in close cooperation and association between member nations in the Euro group. It accounts for making the political decisions with regards to the euro and the European Union. Comprising of finance ministers of member states the Euro Group, it also includes national leaders in the decision making when need arises during emergency situations. The project discusses the range of events happening in the Eurozone and steps taken to control them through effective decision making and controlling. Reacting late to the global financial meltdown, the Eurozone has suffered significant losses arising out of rising public debts and unsustainable deficits in the peripheral economies. Different national leaders have responded to the crisis differently. The project analyses the decision making processes used by leaders in countering with the crisis. This is done in terms of the strategies, cultures, psychology and also the different leadership styles applied in the process. Leadership issues concerning the corporate social responsibilities, ethical conducts and leadership styles are analysed in the project. Lastly the effects that these issues could raise on the future of Eurozone are put to analysis. Recent Events- Eurozone Crisis The euro which was introduced in 2002 as the universal currency of the entire European Union was able to c onsolidate a huge trading area across the world and was instrumental in rivalling the dollar for attaining global supremacy. However, along with the accumulation of unsustainable and massive deficits and rising public debt levels in the numerous peripheral economies the viability of the Eurozone was greatly threatened. This triggered the immense debt crisis of the Eurozone. The crisis is also a vivid depiction of the economic interdependence of the European Union coupled with the lack of political integration within the system which was much needed for providing a coordinated monetary and fiscal stimulus to the crisis. France and Germany showed their reluctant efforts to step inside the political vacuum created out of the crisis. On the other hand, even the wealthiest members of the Eurozone called upon the weaker states to implement rigorous austerity measures for dealing with the crisis. However, this was not successful as it led to the great political unrest and crumbled governme nts of countries like Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece. In spite of many measures to rescue the Euro agreed upon by the leaders of Eurozone volatility prevailing in the markets continued to persist consequently raising questions about the future of the euro (Grauwe, 2010). Analysts have noted that the originally powerful members of the European Union Community like Germany had been initiative and eager to develop a large and competitive Eurozone. Because of this initiative they had also allowed a large number of countries to adopt the euro despite the fact they were not fulfilling the required criteria outlined by Maastricht. However, today all of