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Shakespeare

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KNOWLEDGE: 1 point each [3pts]

7. Where did the story take place? Venice and Belmont

9. What other books has this author written? Romeo and Juliet, Mac Beth, Othello, Hamlet

10. What is the time period in which the book happens? Elizabethan era

COMPREHENSION: 2 points each [6pts]

11. What was the problem in the book, and how was it solved?

The problem was that Antonio, being the guarantor of his friend in a loan, Bassanio, was forced to cut off a pound of meat since he could not repay him within the three months limit. It was solved thanks to Portia’s quick-wittedness, by listing the law that no blood should be lost even in the case of an agreement, and thus, Shylock’s sinister plan failed.

16. List the five major events in the story in the correct order.

1.Shylock loaned three thousand ducats to Bassanio interest-free, on the condition that should the money not returned by three months time, he would claim a pound of flesh from Antonio.

2. Lorenzo and Jessica’s elope

3. Bassanio’s success in asking Portia’s hand in marriage

4. News of Antonio’s ships’ wreck became known

5. Bassanio and Portia rescuing Antonio during the trial

20. What did the title have to do with the book?

The title, merchant of venice, is referring to the merchant residing in Venice, Antonio. While he is the main character, he only appears in the first part of the book, and towards the end of the book, during the trial. This story is mainly about how he sacrificed himself and landed into trouble to enable his bosom friend’s quest for his love, but eventually saved by the same person who landed him in trouble.

21. Tell in your own words how the setting of the story made it more interesting.

APPLICATION: 3 points each [9 pts]

27. What lesson did you learn from the story?

I learnt that the kind will always be rewarded, which the evil will always be punished, just like Antonio and Shylock, the protagonists and antagonists of the story.

29. Write a letter to a friend recommending this book.

Dear Peter,

How are you doing? I recently came across an interesting book by the renowned playwriter, William Shakespeare, titled ‘ Merchant of Venice’. This story revolves around the hatred and rascism present among different religions during his period, and evidently still present in the modern age. At the same time, it comprises of elements of romance, like how a couple eloped as the girl’s father, being a Jew, does not allow her to marry a Christian, thus the elopement. Of course, there are many tear-jerking scenes where true feelings and bonds undergo the test for their durability. All in all, I feel that it would be a waste for anyone to give this book a miss. See you next time.

Regards,

Andy

30. Pretend you are one of the characters in the book. Write a diary about the happenings in your life for two consecutive days.

Tomorrow shall be the trial…. It is no doubt that my death is imminent. With the paper in Shylock’s hands, it would be impossible for him to relent and let me, his arch enemy off at this time. Though my imminent death, I still hope that before I die, I can at least see the face of my best friend, Bassanio one last time. Farewell my friend, as tomorrow shall be the day I leave you.

ANALYSIS: 4 points each [12pts]

37. Write a different ending to the book. Tell why you changed it.

In the end, Shylock was reduced to a normal plebeian who had nothing to his name after his properties were forfeited to the state. Shylock’s hate for the Christians deepened and attempted to take Antonio’s life. However, his devious plans were exploited when Lorenzo happened to overhear him at a dark alley where he resided. Thus, security was tightened and the police caught Shylock red-handed. He was sentenced to jail 10years but committed suicide. I dislike Shylock as he is very evil, coercing Antonio into signing the agreement of one pound of flesh should he not be able to pay within three months. Even when Bassanio wanted to pay him twice the amount he originally owed, he insisted on taking one pound from Antonio. Thus I want to punish him for all the evildoings he had done over the years.

39. Find one word that describes a character in your book very well. Give five reasons for your choice of words.

Loyal - Bassanio

1. Bassanio did not forget his friend’s help after he succeeded in getting Portia’s hand in marriage.

2. Rushed back immediately to see Antonio before his trial

3. Helped to think of possible solutions to Antonio’s trouble

4. Did not give up on his friend no matter how desperate the situation seemed

5. When he offered Balthazar ( Portia disguised as male) anything in return for saving his friend Antonio, she wanted his ring, but Bassanio refused as it was an item of faith between him and his wife, and he did not forget it.

40. In a good paragraph, state the main idea of the book.

Antonio, a merchant, appeared gloomy. He did not know the origin of it, but his worries were unfounded. Bassanio, his good friend, came along to borrow money from him in order to pursue his love. Antonio wanted to help his confidante, but did not have any money at the moment as his shipments would only be arriving two months later, thus he asked Bassanio to borrow money in his name, and he would return them as soon as his shipments arrive on land. Bassanio borrowed money from Shylock, a Jew trader, interest free, on the condition that should Antonio be unable to return within three months, he will cut off one pound of flesh from Antonio, his arch-enemy whom he resented for getting in his way of business. Bassanio took the money and continued his pursue for his love. Antonio, on the other hand, certain that his shipments would arrive before the three months limit, stay in Venice waiting for his friend’s return with his love. However, all of his cargoes ships were lost in unfortunate accidents in the sea, and he did not have money to repay Shylock.. Shylock was elated that he could get rid of the thorn in his flesh at last. Bassanio got news of Antonio’s situation, and rushed back to save his friend who landed in this plight as a result of him. Shylock, determined to take the life of Antonio, did not want to accept money as a form of repayment, even if it was ten times the original amount. Portia, Bassanio’s wife, managed to find loopholes in the agreement and saved Antonio.

SYNTHESIS: 5 points each [15pts]

43. What part would you change in the story, and why?

I would change the ending of the story, as I feel that Shylock deserved to be punished severely for the evil he has committed, and not being let off the hook so easily.

50. Pretend you are a librarian recommending this book to someone. Write a paragraph telling what you would say.

This book is very interesting and is made from a very famous play by Shakespeare. You will regret giving it a miss. With an interesting background a unique theme of religious prejudice and a tinge of romance mixed in it, it is certainly a masterpiece.

55. The climax of any book or story is the exciting or interesting part. Tell what you think is the climax of the book and why.

The climax of this book is the trial as it was a crucial part of the book which determined the fate of Antonio and his arch enemy, Shylock, while his friend Bassanio came to his rescue.

EVALUATION: 6 points each [18 pts]

59. If you could only save one character from the book in the event of a disaster, which one would it be and why?

I would save Antonio as he is a selfless person, always putting other people before him. Despite knowing the dangers his friend, Bassannio might land him in, he still went ahead and acted as his guarantor, all just to let his friend embark on his pursuit of love. Even though his kindness was his weakness in the play, us readers are made to sympathise with his plight because of this character of his.

60. Is the title a good one or a poor one and why?

The title is a good one as it gives the readers a feeling of suspense of what makes this merchant in Venice so unique, and what will eventually land this person into deep trouble, as he is neither in love, nor in debts, and rather well-off.

61. Did you like the way the story ended? Why or why not?

I do not like the way the story ended as Shylock got off the hook almost totally unscathed, which I had been expecting him to be severely punished, which was anti-climax for me. However, it was good that all three pairs of lovers have gotten together at last, while Antonio was rescued.

Task 4 :Activity 1

1. What are your views on the treatment of women’s rights in Saudi?

I feel that the government is taking the matter against women too far, by banning women in the country from driving just because of religious views, disregarding the human rights. Restricting women’s ability to vote and requiring permission from parents and husbands are already bad enough, and now the government has done nothing but stir up the feelings of the women by placing the ban on them for driving. This is a nothing but the work of male chauvinism which exists in the government of Saudi Arabia, and their desire to have control over the women’s actions and behavior. This is the only country which has taken the matter thus far, placing bans of women driving. I hope that this would not serve as a form of encouragement or influence other countries to follow in the footsteps of Saudi Arabia.

2. Do you think the use of social media has been an advantage or disadvantage to the women in Saudi? Explain your answer.

I think that the social media serves as a double-edged sword to the women in Saudi. While the primary purpose is to raise awareness of this absurd rule in Saudi across the rest of the world and to garner support from fellow country mates who feel the same about this law, it might serve as a deterrent for the government to retract the law that was passed down. The government would choose to take actions against people who stir up others’ feelings to go against them so as to serve as a warning, and also warn that the same fate lies ahead for those who choose to go against the government.

3. There is a very fine line between religion and laws that govern a nation. How do you think the women’s right’s problem in Saudi can be handled with sensitivity to both religious beliefs and legal rights?

I believe that a medium can be reached to achieve a balance between these two sensitive prospects that make up the major role in a country’s rules and laws. As Saudi has always been male-biased with its laws, I feel that Saudi can adapt what most countries are currently practising, by making democracy the basis for its laws, but at the same time, always keep in mind what clashes it might have with religious views.

4. Reflect on the rights of women around the world. Compare the plight of women from another country and reflect on how their plights differ/are similar to the women in Saudi.

Activity 2

1. Do some research and identify some of the solutions to the problems of global warming.

After some research and looking through the various methods suggested by people, I feel that the most important aspect of putting a stop to global warming is awareness and individual effort. This is the most important because if everyone does his/her part in saving the Earth, the effect is multiplied six billion times. This would play a vital role in slowing down global warming. It is because of the individual effort put in that people choose to buy ‘greener’ cars, electrical appliances, and also choose a greener alternative when given the choice. When people become conscious of global warming and takes actions to slow it down, it is the best solution to global warming. Money is not the solution to everything and anything. Spending billions of money on building a sun shield is not really effective, and this amount of money can be put into better use by donating it to the needy.

2. How do you think Singaporeans can play an active role in saving the planet?

I think that we should plant more trees and exercise more recycling, and inculcate this into a daily aspect of our lives. Trees help to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the air, whereas recycling can help to reduce the number of trees to be cut down, and the plastic, which is not bio-degradable, should also be recycled as much as possible, as the only way to get rid of them is by burning, and this produces carbon dioxide. Individual effort also comes in place by selecting greener alternatives when buying electronic appliances.

3. What are some solutions that HCI can adopt to engage the students in the world’s effort to protect our planet?

The school can start campaigns like ‘recycling week’ whereby students bring old newspapers from house to the school to recycle, or post posters all around the school to promote 'green-ess' amongst the students.

HBL Flying The Flag In Bosnia

1) The writer's tone was sympathetic, showing his condolences for the woman's loss of her child. The woman appeared to be grieving over her son's death, which can be seen from " Her face is hidden by her hands". Also, the writer is describing her in a pitiful way to gain the sympathy of the readers. This can be seen from the phrase " crudely lettered", which suggests that even the tombstone of her son was not well-carved.

2)The writer uses simile, by describing the shirt draped on the cross as a flag. By saying that "a country already has too many" of those "flags", the writer is trying to say that the country has many deaths due to the war, and the country and its people are suffering and grieving over their relative's deaths. This shows that war is sadness and grieve manifest.

HBL Dulce et Decorum Est Analysis

Dulce et Decorum Est Analysis

1) The literal and implied meaning of this sentence is that the soldiers looked seemingly weak and frail to the extent that the way they move are like that of old beggars carrying sacks on their back. The first stanza intends to break the cliched image the readers have that the soldiers who represents their country to fight war are all strong, brave and mighty, and thus the writer used phrases like " All went lame ; all blind ; Drunk with fatigue " and "Bent double, like old beggars under sacks." to tell the readers that not only the soldiers are not strong and masculine, they are frail to the extent that we might say that they are physically disabled. Also, the first stanza intends to tell the readers that the soldiers are not leading a good life, which can be seen from the sentence "Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots but limped on, blood-shed. This shows that they lead a very bad life, and has to "march even when they are asleep or tired". Moreover, they did not get proper treatment even when they are hurt, and had to "limp on, blood-shed".

2)The sound device like " Gas! Gas! Quick, boys" is used to give the readers a sense of emergency when they read the sentence. Also, the scene of a boy drowning gives the readers a sense of helplessness, which the writer felt, being unable to save the boy. The writer even describes the whole process with the sentence" He plunges at me, guttering, choking and drowning." increases the tension the readers feel when the read the poem.

3)I think that the writer is trying to tell us that the phrase Dulce et Decorum Est was a lie, and so it is not worth dying fighting a war. This meant that dying fighting for your country for glory and pride is nothing but a fallacy most people thought was true. In reality, life should be treasured and taken seriously, and not thown away at the spur of the moment just to protect your country as war. The writer was trying to convey the message that war was not worth throwing lives of soldiers away. Personally, I agree with the writer as petty things like honour, glory is just not worth sacrificing people's lives for it, and yet, many people have this wrong concept of placing pride and honour over one's life.

Peer pressure - a blessing in disguise? Or the calm before a storm?

Peer pressure refers to the social pressure by member's of one's peer group to take a certain action, adopt certain values, or otherwise conform in order to be adapted. Like everything else, peer pressure has its pros and cons.

Teenagers are a process in progress. They are curious beings, who would push the envelope by trying to explore boundaries in a bit to find their personality. They are therefore curious and adventurous. They would jump at a drop of a hat to experiment in the name of flapping their wings, ready for adulthood. Statistics would attest to this. About twenty percent of preteens and teenagers have tried smoking. Sixty-six percent have tried alcohol because it seems so fascinating that adults seem to embrace and enjoy this forbidden fruit. Being young and impressionable, youths do irrational things, which they like, without weighing the consequences. Most do it on a dare and that could be a good or a bad thing. Sometimes, consequences can lead to depression and making the wrong decisions, which can be like a whirlpool of self-destruction. Yet when questioned, youths often gives a deadpan answer that most would do it to avoid being ostracized.

The most vulnerable victims of peer pressure are those with low self- esteem. Youths succumb to peer pressure and some cannot live without companions. Imagine being ostracized, one would stick out like a sore thumb. Depression would definitely set in as one feels lost and unworthy. Severe stress from peer pressure can lead to self-mutilation. Some may get so desperate that they compromise their beliefs and moral values just to fit it.

When empowered properly, peer pressure motivates the unmotivated; one might feel the need to join his group of friends in doing something good. Someone may feel intimidated because of a speech impediment or be dyslexic. With peers who do not sneer at them, but rather sit with them patiently and engineer them towards the right path, they might just not be as much of an introvert which they used to be. As people come from all walks of life and facets of a community, peer pressure, the one that ends on a positive note would reap benefits to both the individual and the community at large.

Running a campaign in school which pairs positive role models with vulnerable youths could empower a positive spin and this could be passed on to the next generation. Goals should be set and more talks should be organised in primary and secondary schools regarding the influence of peer pressure. A support base like a helpline should also be set up so that any one depressed or in despair can reach out and convert their negative experience into positive drive to achieve their goals. One thing is for sure, with anything, one has to be focused and steadfast, persevere in the face of adversities and focus on important things on the agenda.

All in all, peer pressure can be a calamity or a blessing, regarding on how it influences one. Always keep in mind that good things should be preserved while bad ones should be discarded.

Letter to victim of disaster in Japan

Dear Mr Doi,

I have read about your story in one of the articles online, and therefore wants to express my condolences regarding your misfortunes caused by the natural disasters. You might say that I am not in any position to comment on it, since I came from Singapore, a country who has never experienced any natural disasters before, much less affected by the recent earthquake. However, I just want to tell you that, even if your family has died, I hope that you can take it in your stride and continue on with your life. Your wife and your children would not hope to see that your life is disrupted because of their deaths. However, I know that it is impossible for you not to grieve over their deaths, thus I hope that after it, you can continue on with life. Quoted from Babara De Angelis, “No one is in control of your happiness but you; therefore, you have the power to change anything about yourself or your life that you want to change.” So I believe that you have the willpower to do so too.

As for the crises that Japan has at hand caused by the aftermath of the calamity, I hope that it would be salvaged soon, and I think that with all the help from countries from all over the world, Japan’s situation will definitely change for the better as the days pass. So let nature take its course, and let time be the healer of your wounds, wounds that are not superficial, but wounds of the heart. Once again, I hope that you can continue to strive for the better, and since what’s done cannot be undone, live your life to the fullest. “がんばって!” ( Read Gan-ba-te, “Good luck” in Japanese)

Yours sincerely,

Andy Low

Reflections on Article 1

Question at issue:

The question at issue is regarding the somewhat worrisome steady increase in number of teenagers going for plastic surgery nowadays, and whether or not it is not recommended or okay for teenagers to go for plastic surgery when they are still a minor.

Evidence/data:

The writer supports her statements with reports made by the Straits times, interviews and surveys conducted on her own and blogs found online which are done by people, who have experienced plastic surgery themselves, like the blog created by online personality, Hong Qiu Ting. The writer does quote her sources whenever she supports her statement with evidence, usually right before or after the evidence.

P.O.V:

The writer is taking a neutral stand regarding the issue at hand because we can see that the writer is neither supporting nor dissuading teenagers to go for plastic surgery. This is seen from the fact that the writer states the pros and cons of plastic surgery, and interviews people like plastic surgeon and patients who have undergone plastic surgery before for their own point of view. While the surgeon does not encourage unnecessary plastic surgery, several people whom the writer has interviewed said that they had benefitted from it, and thus, it shows that the writer wants to show us the two sides to the matter.

Purpose:
The purpose of this article is to bring to light the fact that there is an increasing number in teenagers going for plastic surgery, and make teenagers who are keen on plastic surgeries weigh the pros and cons carefully before going for plastic surgery

Movie review on 13 going on 30

Have you ever thought of skipping adolescence and straight to be an adult? Well, 13-year-old Jenna did. She had always hated being a 13-year-old child, and find herself ugly. But when her wish was fulfilled by some magical powder on her birthday, she "time travels" to the world 17 years later only to find herself in her 30-year-old adult body. What lies in wait for the 30-year-old Jenna with a mentality of 13-years-old? Watch to find out!

Personally, I find this movie interesting and similar to the movie "17 again", and is a must-watch for those who enjoyed the movie "17 again". I find this movie hilarious at some points when Jenna acts childishly in her 30-year-old body. In the movie, Jenna's unexpected actions will cause the audience to wonder what she would do next since she thinks simple-mindedly, like a 13-year-old, but dealing with 30-year-old things.

Jenna's unexpected travel to the future practically changed her life and her relationships with the people around her, for the better, so what happened to her? Find it out yourself!