Presentation Analysis

Presentation Analysis:
1. This song is a very simple song, but it makes the point that goals are necessary to make on an individual level and a community level. The lyrics highlight the challenge of making and committing to a goal through incorporating different feelings/emotions (pathos). At the same time, the lyrics evoke a sense of unity and community through using these different feelings/emotions, because they make up a universal personality; everyone can relate to the emotions that are mentioned.
Therefore, I believe this song would illustrate that setting a goal is very important and can be done and accomplished on a level larger than an individual level, as long as the conflict of feelings are recognized so that the community can help each other or know what they are up against. This scenario is very illustrative of how the political issues are playing out on climate change in the United States, and through exploring it we can come to conclusions on how it can be helped/changed.
2. This comic provokes an immediate idea of competition, which is the main idea I wanted to express through this presentation. The green thing #2 makes a statement that challenges his opponent, and since the majority of the audience has been in this situation before, the audience can relate and assume that the green thing #1 will try to meet the challenge (pathos). So, once a person’s presumed inability is brought to their attention they will instinctly try to prove that they are capable.
Therefore, the main idea of this presentation ties into the “tactic” that Kennedy used during the Space Race and could be used in the future to provoke a similar response, which was that the American people did rise to the occasion in order to prove their superiority over Russia. What the audience will learn is that competition is a natural human instinct, which triggers the want to win or succeed, and can be used to accomplish a goal or mobilize people to act.
3. A goal cannot be achieved on a community level unless it is conveyed to the public, through pathos, with words and memories that make people feel emotion. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s speech, “I Have a Dream”, instantly brings to mind change, inspiration, and power. His ability to fabricate desires and objectives, in the mind of the people, through speech willed the public to unite under one purpose; the purpose needed to achieve the goal of equality.
He is the voice of his goal, and therefore must bring his audience along with him, engaging them emotionally and intellectually. Powerful speeches have the ability to invoke feelings of patriotism, urgency, pride, hate, respect, unity, and many other emotions. I will use this presentation to teach the audience that pathos is extremely effective in persuading your audience of your purpose.
4. This picture depicts people helping each other make it to the top. It portrays teamwork through pathos and allows the audience to assume that if one of the people were not committed to the task of helping progress would not be made. Although, I have to fill in the blank on how this presentation teaches the audience about cooperation in relation to accomplishing a goal (even if the answers are obvious), the illustration is very useful. The gestures of helping hands, of hard work, and of triumph clearly describe the rewards of cooperation and therefore describe how similar rewards or goals are capable of accomplishment through this way.

topic paragraph for revision

Global warming is a theory based on the observed increase, of one degree Fahrenheit, in global temperature over the past one hundred years. Many scientist believe that this phenomena is a direct result from human activities that emit greenhouse gases (GHG), such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere. The GHG remain in the atmosphere and allow solar radition to pass through them to the Earth's surface, but trap the heat rising from Earth's surface, preventing its release into outer space. Therefore, the climate becomes hotter. Over the past two decades, global climate change has been a hotly debated topic. In 1988, James Hansen, a NASA climate expert, brought climate change to the attention of the United States Congress, and proposed that immediate action to reduce GHG emission be taken, based on his findings. His climate change research promoted international awareness and gave scientist a foundation to build on. Since Hansen's Congressional address, much head way has been made in creating green technologies, such as hybrid cars and flourescent light bulbs, which encourage the use of alternative fuel and minimize resource consumption. As of now, the United States has no policies pertaining to climate change mitigation. Although incentives, such as tax deductions, are used to promote the use of environmentally friendly technology; there is no existing legislation that requires such action. Prediction made for the year 2040 estimate that the average global temperature will increase by 3 degrees Celsius and result in life-threatening sea-level rise and storms. So, it is essential, and in America's best interest to enact laws and regulations that will prevent a catastrophe from occuring. A reason for the lack of action taken on this matter is that it will require great sacrafices and a complete make over of the American lifestyle. Therefore, such a movement must be developed with prior knowledge of past presidential initiatives that were used successfully to enact and implement major social, economic, and political change. In identifying public affair, legislative, and leadership strategies used during the Roosevelt, Kennedy, and Johnson Administrations, a successful policy approach, addressing climate change, can be developed. Clean Air Cool Planet, a leading ngo for climate change prevention, believe the national initiatives taken on by these Presidents outline influential characteristics needed to promote a successful Presidential initiative; setting a goal, gaining national support and cooperation, promoting healthy competition, and establishing an organization that has the ability and knowledge to direct and supply power behind such a goal. The emulation of these actions in President Obama's climate change agenda would contribute to an effective policy. Every American must understand the values behind each effort so that they can make informed choices on how they choose to contribute to the success of their nation.

Four Fictional Presentations Relating to Past Presidential Initiatives that Could be Successfully Applied to Address Climate Change

1.Eiffel 65, One Goal
Music:Lobina/Gabutti/Randone
Lyrics:Capuano/Lobina/Randone/Gabutti/Ponte
Mixed by:Angelica Villella

All we need is one more Goal.
All we need is one more Goal.
All we seek is one Goal,
One Goal.
All we need is one Goal.

One Goal could be your happiness.
One Goal can make you sad.
One Goal can be desperation.
One Goal can become your hope.
One Goal can do a lot of things.
One Goal can change the world.
One Goal can be your brotherhood.
One Goal is the score of your Life.
http://www.songlyrics.com/eiffel-65/one-goal/33024/

This song represents the importance setting a goal and the different impacts that that goal can have on the public. Setting a goal is the first step in moblizing change on an individual level, national level, and global level. When setting a goal, the impacts it may have on those affected by the goal, must be considered. For example, if a goal was set to reduce national greenhouse gas emissions 20% by the year 2040, it must be understood that the actions neccessary to complete this goal would could result in job loss for those who work at powerplants generated by coal or could trigger an economic crisis --- these considerations are illustrated in the lyrics "one goal can make you sad, one goal can be desperation". Most successful goals try to mitigate negative impacts on industries,economy,the public, etc... but must be set regardless in order to begin future progress, that is neccessary to all the wellbeing of all humankind (desperation reflected again).
#3. This song is geared towards people of all ages and sexes. Its message is universally understood, as we all start to create goals for ourselves at a very young age.
#4. In this song, ethos is being used to describe a community of people who share concerns and hopes in setting or committing to a goal that will affect their lives. Every line of this song is dedicated to a different emotional feeling, but still evokes a feelings of unity through one goal that "WE" need. It suggests to me that each feeling is a characteristic that makes up a universal personality. Therefore, this song also incorporates pathos, by illustrating a the desire to create a common goal despite emotional apprehension or differences. Incorporating a variety of feelings and ways of perceiving a common goal appeals to more people, because they are conscious of their individual emotions, which this song recognizes.
#5. In this presentation ethos effectively illustrates interest in a common good for people, because it takes into account many universal perspectives. Pathos is also used effectively, because it focus on acceptance of others feelings/ideas, which many people can connect to. Also, the way in which the scenario of setting a goal is described is very positive. It sends a message that a common goal can be set, and possible reached, despite the individual differences among people's feelings. The lyrics encourage understanding and action by connecting with universal feelings, too.
#6. This song can be used to teach my audience about the importance of setting a goal that can be nationally understood and accepted, which is conveyed through ethos, and tried to accommodate as many views as possible. In addition, this song also can be used to show that differences in feelings towards a common goal, will not terminate the goal from being carried about. You must join the cause regardless of initial emotions that arise, due to uncertainty of the outcome. Pathos shows this through the lyrical repetition that makes the audience feel that they should not give up. Participate in a goal that is being set for the "common good," and then allow yourself to experience the different emotions described above. Achieving a goal is a process that will evoke many feelings throughout its existence.

2.
Public participation and support is neccesary if one wants to achieve a goal on a national or global scale. Therefore the public must be tempted in one way or another in getting involved and wanting to achieve the goal set before them! This picture represents the importance of promoting healthy competition as a tool to mobilize public interest and participation. It worked for Kennedy in the "Space Race". Competition is a natural human insitinct, which triggers the want to win or sucecced. So lets say if the goal is seen as a competition between countries, it might actually be completed, possibly even in a timely manner. Americans are proud that their country is the greatest super power -- if threatened they will do whatever it takes to stay on top.
#3. This graphic is aimed at men and women, 20+. I believe that all people at this point have felt a competitive drive whether during college application time or going out into the world and finding a job. Experience is the only education neccessary, although much of the drive is human instinct.
#4. This image uses pathos in such a direct way that evokes feelings and memories of competition, it gets its message across immediately. The blurb of text is very understandable and similar to the lines used in competitive activities. One always begins a competition with the intention of winning, or wanting to win, and therefore they objectify their opponent. I also think the character that is speaking could represent ethos, in that his personality is clearly competitive, which some people could connect to. As for logos, this may be a stretch, but paper is about global warming, and I think this image brings to mind the factual evidence that nothing is being done, which would considerably impact climate change.
#5. I think pathos is used well, in that a emotion comes to mind through looking at this picture. The idea behind this comic is very understandable, people will either look at this image in a political way or a relational way, which can been seen in logos, but I do not know if this source would be considered an expert testimony. Ethos, is not an effective part of this presentation.
#6. I want to use this comic in relation to President Kennedy's actions, which created healthy competition to promote support for the "Space Race." I believe we all have experienced our competitive drives before and I want to explain how this human instinct can be used to accomplish a goal. Pathos would be the best way to connect to my audience, because competition is a universally known feeling. Also, through the logos of this comic, which is what my topic is on, I can provide additional information that would be helpful in informing the audience of my purpose for these particular presentations.


3. "I Have A Dream" Speech by Martin Luther Kind, Jr. http://www.famousquotes.me.uk/speeches/Martin_Luther_King/

Immediately this speech brings to mind change, inspiration, and power. Powerful speeches have the ability to invoke feelings of patriotism, urgency, pride, hate, respect, unity, etc... Speeches are essential in fabricating desires and objectives--- parts of a goal. A goal cannot be achieved unless it is conveyed to the public with persuasiveness. It must will the public to unite under one purpose, the purpose needed to achieve the goal set before them. Speeches are what give goals purposes and keep the public attentive throughout the process of achievement.
#3. This presentation is for people in college and older. They must have some knowledge of civil rights in America to understand and feel what this speech is about.
#4. This speech uses pathos to build on individual emotions of people, as well as create new inspiring emotions within them. As MLKjr. speaks, visions of equality and justice and struggle all become real in the imagination. The words and his voice paint a vision that invites people to join in his cause. This speech symbolizes equality. There is no better person to give this speech that MLKjr., which draws on ethos, because he has a very adequate grasp of the subject being talked about, one that is rooted in his history. He is also percieved as with the greatest love and regard, because the feel that he is sincerely concerned and interested in their welfare. Logos is also in the text, because this speech was created to promote a civil rights movement, that resulted from a history of slavery and inequality. The facts are in the past, and his words describe in great detail the exact situation at that time.
#5. I think the rhetorical appeals are strongest in this presentation. Its representation of fabricating desires and objectives in itself is part of pathos. This speech is historical, using logos, which everyone my target audience will be able to connect to through memories or knowledge from school. As a infamous figure, MLKjr. fall under all the categories of ethos. He has read widely, knows and observes the principles of valid reasoning, and has considerable interest in the welfare of his audience, at that time. It is a true life example of how effective all the rhetorical appeals can be.
#6. In using the "I Have A Dream..." Speech as one of my presentations, I think I can effectively teach my audience that powerful speech is an essential component in being able to convey and fabricate desires and objectives, with the hope of empowering your audience. Ethos of course is an good place to start, which highlights MLKjr. status as a well respected figure. He is the voice of his goal, and therefore must bring his audience along with him, engaging them emotionally and intellectually. Using speech that makes one feel emotion, pathos, is a effective way in connecting with the audience, which is explained in my topic.

4.

Cooperation is essential in achieving a goal. Everyone must do their part in order to contribute to a successful outcome. Here there are people climbing a mountain all the way up to the top. They all depend on one another, because without the person behind them it looks as if they would all fall. If people do not cooperate with one another progress cannot be made. This presentation of cooperation is a main foundation in being able to achieve change.
#3. Men and women of all ages can see this picture and understand what it represents, because from a young age we've been taught in schools and sports to work with one another.
#4. This image portrays logos to a very simple degree. The illustration shows a group of people, extending helping hands to one another, climbing a mountain. The rope is being used by everyone to lead them to the top, where someone waits to help them onto the cloud. Cooperation, teamwork, helpful,working together are all words that would unarguable come to mind. I think the image depicts these universal symbols quite clearly, too, which is where the pathos appear. We've all been in relational situations to this one, and therefore we know how it feels to be acting as the people in the image are acting.
#5. From a logos standpoint, I think I could put this image to use. It is very to the point, and from my perspective, a universal symbol of cooperation and teamwork. Its possible that considering logos would be less effective than considering the image a mode of pathos. It brings to mind emotions when an individual looks at it.
#6. This is the final component, cooperation, that is illustrative of an essential characteristic needed to achieve a goal. In describing this picture, pathos, to my audience they will begin to understand how this presentation is the key to any success. I want to define each detail within the image, such as helping hands, in relation to my topic. Pointing out the situations on a political and national level, in which cooperation is mandatory.

The Simpsons as a Critique of Consumer Culture

he Simpsons, since its creation in the late eighties, has always been a critique of American ideologies and mainstream culture. One would think that a show that makes fun of the people who are watching it would not air on prime time television, nor receive high ratings and popularity, but Sam Tingleff explains how Matt Groening, the creator, made it possible. The narrative itself does not openly criticize American culture or values, it follows a plot that portrays middle class lifestyles and myths, which allows the viewer to see, in a humorous way, the irony or hypocrisy within the dominant culture they live in. Issues of democracy, education, capitalism, and inequality are a few of the topics of critique that are depicted through character interaction or particular situations. For example, Marge is treated unfairly by her husband and children in every show, which stands to represent "American society's dismissal of women," but in an indirect and thought provoking way. This example also illustrates how the characters in The Simpsons are representations of American ideologies/roles, rather than full personalities, which is depicted as conflict of dominant ideas. The combination of underlying cultural critiques within the narratives and the portrayal of ideological characters directs the viewers to question, again and again, the dominant values and culture that is being portrayed.

The witty way in which Groening puts together The Simpson shows, clearly speaks to the American people, or else it would not be as popular as it is. The plot of one episode illustrates Homer quitting his horrible job and getting one that he loves for less money, but when times get tough and more money is needed he must go back to the old job. Many people in our society have obviously experienced this situation and many other situations The Simpsons depict, such as social inequality. Tingleff's description of the purpose of Marge's character reminded me of Beauvoir's, The Second Sex. Together the two texts state that the injustices and stereotypes against women still stand today. Through one's experienced knowledge, aka the dominant culture, they are able to understand the critiques that Groening is trying to illustrate.

I do not think The Simpsons has been defined as a controversial show, even though it criticizes everything about the American culture, including its Democratic foundation, because everyone has struggled with the pressures of the dominant culture. Whether it is conforming to a particular gender identity or trying to gain economic status, the American people have fallen victim to their own constructs. I believe The Simpsons is so well liked because it provides comic relief that allows the viewer to escape from reality, while also questioning the oppressive qualities inherent in our culture.

Questions:
1. Does it mean anything that The Simpsons is aired on FOX, one of the most right-wing television networks in media?
2. Do you think that Groening meant to generate a movement with his creation of The Simpsons?
3. After almost 20 years of The Simpsons airing on prime time television, what noticeable impacts, if any, has it had on the American society or American individual?

Knowledge Nugget: The Bell Jar

1. Teaches the reality of glamorized notion of sex portrayed in our culture ---- Prude:How the Sex-Obsessed Culture Damages Girls

2. Teaches the importance of details, how they serve as a means of creating an image that allows the reader to "see" what is happening ---- http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/0/1/8/ar120283325581063.gif

3. Teaches a process of thought, how feelings/beliefs can be transformed through an experience ---- http://www.starlightangel.co.uk/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/Transformation.jpg.w300h410.jpg

The Second Sex

 

 

Since the conceptualization of the sexes, the drive to differentiate between female and male has played an essential part in the construction of identity and culture. Yet, Simone de Beauvoir asks, "What is a woman?" Her question illustrates our desire to disassociate ourselves with everything that defines a woman. Submissive, sexual, passive, needy, emotional, weak are all socially constructed qualities that allow a woman to perform femininity, whereas men perform masculinity through the opposite qualities. These conflicting behaviors result from the duality between the sexes. Beauvoir explains that the historical development of female gender began with ancient philosophy and the Bible, which stated that humanity was male. This belief resulted in male dominance over women, as they saw themselves superior. Man defined women relative to himself, as the Other. Beauvoir believes the women's complete subordination resulted because their inability to organize a unit or community, and their constant dispersal among males. Even man's dependency on woman for offspring and pleasure lends her no equality, the relationship is compared to that of a slave and master. In addition, the men are the only sex that works, so the women are dependent on their income. It was a man's world, created by men, until the 18^th century. Woman began to work during the industrial revolution and gained a new independence that was feared by men. Beauvoir affirms that change is happening, but inequality will always have a presence in men's minds. The impact of oppression and unequal treatment on women has made them advocates for the general interest and public good.

The way in which Beauvoir posed the question, "what is a woman?" Immediately grasped my attention. The fact that women were denouncing their sexual identity, their human nature, because society's mainstream expectations had tainted it, is an enormous sacrifice. Beauvoir did mention that this sort of defiance showed that the women were haunted by their femininity, but I am in disagreement with her. The construction of femininity began with civilization, and therefore became a repression inherent in the culture. I believe it is similar to the theory of the "culture of poverty," (can't remember the guys name who came up with it, but he knows what he's talking about.) which claims that poverty is an inherent trait within a family that is passed on from generation to generation. Repression could easily be passed on, or continued, through generations, because kids growing up are being educated by the mainstream culture, which creates their values and identity. Then as they grow up, they will demonstrate what they learned from ideological state apparatuses (i.e. schools, family, and church). Gaining complete equality is a very hard goal to reach, unless humanity unites.

I did not understand everything Beauvoir was inferring in her text, but I saw many correlations between her interpretation of social inequality and present day inequalities. She mentioned man's view of woman became extremely sexualized once he was empowered by domination over humanity. This sexualized view of women is still one of the most prevalent and damaging social injustices against women in society, today. Sex is used to sell products, videogames, liquor, etc... You name it there is an ad of it with an almost naked woman in it. In addition, it is very sad, but male domination has not left our culture at all. Women dress like men in order to be taken seriously in the professional world and they are more focused on attaining a muscular body rather than just a slim body. In addition, repression of women through body language, male models, and skinniness is advertisements are really affecting young girls and adolescent's self-image.

 

1. Change is needed, but how can it be accomplished when the media runs our world?
   
2. How would you describe eternal feminism? Do you believe there are any positive aspects to it?
   
3. Beauvoir only once mentions a man's dependency on a woman, but represents it as a master –slave relationship; do you think this she is over exaggerating the inequality between spouses?
   

 

 

Approach to the Inmost Cave and The Ordeal

In Vogler's explanation of the stages, Approach to the Inmost Cave and the Ordeal, he illustrates the centeral ideas through using The Wizard of Oz as a reference. Beginning with the approach to the inmost cave, it is clear that this stage is packed with many different elements. All previous steps play an influential role in this stage and the impacts on the characters are clearly seen. The focus throughout this stage seems to be on strengthen the team and redefining their common goal. Through this, the characters become more prepard to face the ordeal that awaits them. In this stage, the ordeal, Vogler emphasizes death and rebirth, physically and emotionally. In addition, he explains the audiences appeal for a taste of death. Ultimately, during this stage the hero conquors or accomplishes their goal by defeating the villian; what frightens them the most.
The Wizard of Oz is a perfect text to show the many stages involved in putting connecting the stages together. I believe that these two stages are the most important and crucial to the story, and involve the most thought. Much of what Vogler described has become second nature to texts, such as "getting into the skin" of the threshold guardians they are trying to escape from or being faced with heavy defenses. The many ways that rebnirth and death can be depicted is also crucial to allowing for variety in a text, which Vogler demonstrates through many different examples of this statement.
Although I believe that theses stages are the most crucial in captivating the audiences attention and promting a good ending, the way that Vogler explains the basic outline is too text specific. It is possible that he was trying to incorporate every possible aspect that could be in the specific stage, but it did not serve to help my understanding. The overall focuses of each stage were well defined, though, and allowed me to understand the essence of each stage.

Questions:
1. Where there parts within the stages that seemed forgein to you?
2. What do you think the most influential scene within each stage is?
3. Can you think of an example of Scared Marriage in a text? What does this scene represent to you, if anything at all?

Crossing the First Threshold and Test, Allies, and Enemies

In these chapters, Vogler leads us through stages five and six, the crossing of the first threshold and tests, allies, and enemies. Crossing the first threshold is a transition stage in which the hero is placed in between the ordinary world and the special world. This stage is often marked by a noticeable shift in energy, the interference of threshold guardians, or the action of making "the leap of faith." Vogler points out that once the hero makes this leap, there is no turning back, and they may not adjust easily to this new special world. Upon entry into the special world, the hero now faces tests, allies, and enemies, and their presence marks this stage of passage. The primary purpose of this stage is to challenge the hero with tests; tests in the form of distinguishing between allies and enemies or creating a team with people of special skills and qualities or the pace of adjustment to the new rules of the special world. A good place to gather the necessary information to overcome the challenges is what Vogler refers to as the "watering hole," which is often a bar or local hangout. This stage lets the audience learn more about the hero and other characters in the text, while allowing the hero to gain a stable footing in the special world.

Vogler's concise explanation of both these stages is very helpful in understanding the process a hero takes in his exploration of the special world. I believe these stages closely resemble the universal steps that would be taken if someone found themselves in a similar experience, which happens to people all the time. Vogler mentions that the role of the threshold guardian in the crossing the first threshold stage is to stand in the hero's way, but their threat is often just an illusion and can be simply conquered. I could not help connecting this archetype to Gregor in relation to his interaction with his sister, who acts like the hero in this case. Gregor's sister is extremely frightened and disgusted by the appearance of Gregor, but what if his appearance is more or less an illusion that she must learn to accept in order to overcome whatever is in store for her and Gregor.

I think that now, my favorite stage is tests, allies, and enemies, because of its necessity in any text. The hero often cannot conquer his tests and challenges alone and therefore needs companions that will help her make it through the special world. This situation appears in everyday life and needs, which is that all people need to have friendship in order to thrive in life. Whether it is a co-worker friendship or teacher-student relationship or parent-child relationship, all are necessary for the development of one's greatest potential in life. Therefore, in applying this idea to the hero, if she had to travel her journey alone, I do not think she would be able to overcome what is asked of her.

Questions:
1. Can you think of a movie in which the crossing of the first threshpld is extremely clear?
2. If the hero does not cross the first threshold, can the text still go on? What other stages or circumstance could take its place? Could it still be a good tex?
3. Do you belive that allies are absolutely necessary in a text?

Refusal of the Call and Meeting with the Mentor

Continuing on the path of the hero's journey, Vogler directs our attention towards two prominent stages, the hero's refusal of the call and the meeting with the mentor. He emphasizes the importance of these stages through describing the impact they have on the audience's connection and understanding of the story. The refusal of the call serves as a dramatic function that indicates the risks of the adventure that they hero will be faced with, regardless of the hero's willingness or rejection. Without this stage, the nature of the adventure would not be defined, therefore leading the audience to believe the hero has very little to overcome or conquer. Within this stage, threshold guardians can serve an important function of alerting the audience and hero of the horrific outcomes that could ensue if the call is accepted due to personal weaknesses they see in the hero. They offer an element of suspense, which is dependent on whether or not the hero will take their advice. Often in the end, Vogler points out that the refusal of the call becomes pointless and the hero must accept it, often with guidance from a mentor. The meeting with the mentor lets the audience and hero know what is to be expected of the hero during her journey through the mental and physical preparation the hero must undergo in order to overcome the adventure placed before her. It is in this stage where most people can connect with the sharing or learning of information in order to deal with a crisis. The mentor also serves to get the story unstuck; when the hero has used all of her own resources to deal with a situation the mentor comes to her aid and provides her with useful tips and tools to help her continue on. The emphasis placed on the mentor archetype dates back to ancient Greek mythology and is extremely important figure that everyone can relate to. In fact, Vogler concludes by tying the role of the mentor to the role of the writer, as providing the reader or audience with metaphors through their work, which people guide their lives by.

Thus far, in the stories we have read in class, the two stages have been incorporated into the hero's journey. Together the stages serve the function of creating a familiar connection between the character/adventure and the audience. Separately, they also serve a useful purpose that allows the writer to define the character and continue the flow of the story. Vogler poses a question concerning the necessity of these stages at the end of his commentary, to which I would answer that they are crucial to the development of an intriguing plot.

What I found very interesting while reading the facets within the two stages, was the hero's refusal of the call often ended as a pointless gesture. Its place in the story is not necessarily to humanize the hero through showing his fear and apprehension, but rather to build up the adventure and draw in the attention of the audience. Vogler mentions how some hero's are very willing and do not refuse the call, but people still stand in their way in order to foreshadow the obstacles that will be present in their adventure. Another one of Vogler's points that I found very interesting, as well as enlightening was that the write, herself, acts like the archetype of the mentor. It is very true that the world utilizes stories as a source of information in order to understand their own personal situations and create a stronger connection with particular interpretations of their life. When I find myself in a problematic situation, I often refer to other similar situations that I have read about in books, seen, or dealt with in the past, which serve as a starting point to guide me through my dilemma and onto the next step of recovery. What Vogler says about these two stages makes a lot of sense in terms of the creation of a good story and their connection to real life.
Questions:
1. What is the purpose of the "Secret Door" in Vogler's explanation of the refusal of the call?
2. Do you believe all hero's come to the point where refusal is pointless?
3. Would you say that the mentor is one of the most important archetypes? Why?

Draft Suggestions

Chris's comments helped me realize I need a little work on the transition between events so the reader doesnt have to wonder how I got from point A to point B

The Ordinary World and The Call to Adventure

    In "The Ordinary World" and "The Call to Adventure," Vogler describes the most important elements that must be incorporated in these stages of the journey. The most crucial part to an epic story is the introduction to the character and current setting, which takes place in the ordinary world. Vogler emphasizes the hero's entrance, introduction, and identification as necessary components that further the audience's or reader's understanding of the character. These are often conveyed through symbolism and metaphors. In addition, through identifying with the hero, we gain insight into what will conspire in the story and what challenges the hero may face. Here the theme begins to take shape and remains constant throughout the rest of the story. Once the writer has made the hero's disposition clear, the call to adventure is often the next stage in the hero's journey. Here the transition from the ordinary world to the special world begins with a trigger or catalyst brought on by the hero's predicament. Vogler points out that the call can be self motivated or triggered by another character or situations, such as temptation or synchronicity. In order to describe these stages, Vogler poses questions that require the reader to think critically about the roles these different elements play in their own writing.

    The part of Vogler's analysis of the two stages, ordinary world and call to adventure, that caught my attention was his mention of symbolism and metaphors in creating the theme and character of the hero and the nature of the journey. As we view in many trailers, there are only a few scenes that are presented, which give the viewer or reader enough clues to know what the story will be about. For example, in a trailer about the Wizard of Oz we may see Dorothy's house being swept away by the storm or the wicked witch on the screen. These symbols clue us into the conflict that may arise in the story.

    I believe it is very important to create a preview or trailer of a story in order to make sure it has all the essential elements of the hero's journey. I found in trying to create a summary of my story, I was missing a climax of conflict, where I explain what will happen if I fail my mission. As Vogler explains, what is at stake is a very important element to a story. In addition, through Vogler's description of symbolism in stories, I now see how a symbol can serve as a better way of conveying a quality or problem or situation. I feel that symbols are universally understood and are a useful tool for conveying complexities that are happening within a story. In particular, I would like to find a way to incorporate more symbolism and metaphors into my story so I can better express what is happening between the characters and me, because it is hard for me to explain it to my audience through words.

    

Questions:
1. Would it be possible to tell a personal story through the use of fairy tale creation?
2. Does the hero create the theme of the story or is the theme already created?
3. Could you say that exposition is the most crucial element to telling a story?

First Draft Progress

2 strengths with why and 2 areas for improvement with how.

Strength 1:
Good way of introducing my problem. Since I've experienced the emotions I expressed in my paper, I think I can convey how I was feeling before leaving for Tenerife very well. It also set the tone in the beginning and made it so I could present how I change throughout.
Strength 2:
The structure of my paper makes it so my story can be followed pretty well. I think I placed my sequence of events in such a way that it constructs my journey in an understandable way. I also tried to incorporate some dialouge to give the reader an actual understanding of how the experience played out.
Improvement 1:
I should incorporate more characters. I am the narrator and the only other characters I mention are my parents, sister, Ed, and Veerle. I think it would enhance the story more if there were other people to illustrate my development and experience.
Improvement 2:
I need to better explain what I learned and what my journey meant to me. I only explain it vaguely, but really dont know how. I've explained what I learned many times so its become a very constructed response. More detail is neccesary.

The Archetypes contd...

After Vogler describes the functions of the two most common archetypes in storytelling, the Hero and Mentor, he continues to elaborate on the complexities of other archetypes absolutely necessary for the creation of a story. He describes the functions of the Threshold Guardian, Herald, Shapeshifter, Shadow, Ally, and Trickster. All of these archetypes actions are centered around the Hero and are explained as having a positive, negative, or positive and negative impact on him/her and other characters. For example, the Ally often brings to light extra dimensions of the Hero's personalities through their interaction throughout the story, which every archetype is possible of doing, as well. This is often portrayed through guidance, similar to the Mentor. Without these other archetypes,a story of triumph could not be created. Every archetype is concrete, but at the same time capable of functioning through many variations. Surrounding each archetype is a goal to express what there function is in the story, but with flexibility. Essentially, the Shadow brings destruction, the Shapeshifter causes doubt and misdirection, the Threshold Guardians present obstacles, but all do so uniquely, allowing writers to project the greater depth of their characters and avoid stereotyping. Vogler notes that the combination and variations of archetypes form a complete human being.
The way in which Vogler describes each archetype through such detail, made the point that each archetype is very complex and human-like. These archetypes are extremely useful because they can be easily utilized to create a character of any writer's pleasing. Their function allows the audience to further understand their personality and motive in the movie, often in relation to the Hero.
What is so interesting to me is that after reading about all the different archetypes, the Hero seems to be the least complex. I would've thought as the main character, which the story is created around, their complexity should increase so that the audience could further connect with them. Although all the other archetypes are placed around the Hero's goal as secondary characters, I believe their importance is just as monumental to the development and outcome of the story. I have never looked at main characters in such a way before, only as the one that appears the most on the screen. In addition, I came up with a new personally way of viewing importance of the archetypes. It never occurred to me that there was a concrete model that described the steps in the storytelling process, which I now see can be applied to most all the stories I know of. I believe my unawareness to this pattern portrays the the necessity of the variations of the archetypes. The characters within the stories are always different, complex, and intriguing, and therefore you follow the characters on the same journey repeatedly because it is they who intrigue you and capture your attention.

Questions:
1. Is it the journey (pattern) that is more attractive or the characters that are present in the journey, or are they equally attractive?
2. What archetype(s) would the grandmother be in "A Good Man is Hard to Find"?
3. Do you believe we embodied the majority of these archetypes on a daily basis? Does that mean we are all part of a Hero's journey?

The Archetypes: Hero and Mentor

In The Archetypes, Vogler builds on Carl Jung's theory of archetypes, defined as "ancient patterns of personality that are the shared heritage of the human race." (pg.23) Basically archetypes are created from universal personalities and incorporated into every story unconciously because it is what is known and familiar, and is developed from everyday life. An archetype is not neccesarily a permanent trait of a character, but rather a function, which can be gained or lost during a characters growth throughout the story. The eight archetypes that are used most frequently are the hero, mentor, threshold guardian, herald, shapshifter, shawdow, ally, and trickster. A character can posses all, many, or one of these archetypes, which will define his/her personality. Specially focusing on the hero and mentor, Vogler notes that there are many ways in which these characters portray their roles, but all serve to further the audience-character connection. Among the many traits within these two archetypes, the essence of the archetype is always present. For example, the hero always overcomes or tries to overcome an obstacle, and the mentor always serves as a fuction that contributes to the hero's ultimate success. Essentially archetypes allow the audience to connect with teh characters, and in turn grasp the plot or meaning of the work.

Vogler's explanation of archetypes is very straighforward and fundamental to understanding the way in which an audience percieves a story and can connect with it. It makes perfect sense that characters would share recurring archetypes because these archetypes are how we make sense of life and play to the many ways in which we deal with obstacles and confrontation. As Vogler made quite clear in his lengthy explanantions of the many different kinds of heros and mentors, there is a type of hero or mentor for every type of personality. All people posses unique personalities and therefore go about their journey in their own way. This gives way to the many depictions of a hero or mentor. The specific ones Vogler mentions are probably the most common ways that people would act, so they would be the most popular because a connection can be easily made.

I found it very interesting that the key words that define the most popular and sensational characters are overcome, growth, and teach. Vogler uses these to describe the hero and mentor very frequently. Since these types of characters are most popular and most commonly used, I believe it says something about the way society interprets entertainment. It allows the audience to feel feelings that they felt maybe when they dealt with a simliar obstacle or teaches them something about the way they interpret their own ordeals. Since most stories end with the hero overcoming their dilemma, I can understand why they would be so popular. People always want to overcome their dilemma's too, and thats what makes the audience root for the hero. Another thing I noticed was the contrast of Joseph Campbell's outline of "The Keys" and the archetypes. I believe that the archetypes can first and created the mold of the 12 stages. Personality develops through stages, but the stages are created through the choices (personality) of the characters.

Questions:

1. Is it the stages or archetypes that come first in the creation of a story?

2. How can a character be defined as a mentor or hero since so many of the qualities are the same between them and they put on different "masks" throughout the story?

3. It seems from Vogler's explanantion of hero's it would be possible for everyone to be a hero. Do you think this is true?

Annotation: Chapter 1, A Practical Guide

Christopher Vogler's commentary, A Practical Guide, on Joseph Campbell's book, A Hero with a Thousand Faces, is a very insightful interpretation of the repetition within storytelling. This repetition is present not only within fictional stories and mythology and movies, but can also be applied to the way people perceive and live their lives. Every story is created through a journey, in which obstacles are faced, and transformation occurs. Therefore, the word story is synonymous with the word journey, and is the foundation of all works. Vogler constructs his argument based on Campbell's outline of "The Keys", which consist of 12 stages that are incorporated into every journey. Although listed in specific order, Vogler notes that the pattern in which they occur can be modified and the symbolism of each stage can take on many meanings. This basic outline serves as a framework for conveying life experiences that are shared by everyone.
The fact that an outline can be applied to every story, whether fictional or non-fictional, is quite amazing. The process in which Vogler explains this theory makes it seem very believable. It is interesting that a pattern has developed over thousands and thousands of years, and until only recently has been explored and revealed. This point, in itself, gives way to the idea that people internalized their personal journeys in very alike ways. In basic terms, the normalcy of life is interrupted, the issue is ignored or help is sought if it cannot be ignored, the processes of overcoming the issue begins, insight and knowledge is gained, and the issue is essentially solved, the transformation to a normal life begins, and normalcy is regained once the issue no longer exists or is looked back on as a lesson learned. Along these lines many experiences can be explained and shared to others, who will be able to connect with them because it follows a universal patter of thought and action that everyone has experienced.
At first it was hard to grasp the idea that all stories follow a similar outline, if not the same one, because I've read many books and never consciously recognized this connection. Vogler makes a very convincing case though, in contrasting romantic comedies with sci-fi and The Wizard of Oz. I could also make a connection between these works and memoirs I've read, such as Elie Wiesel's, as well as personal life experiences I've dealt with. In addition, I found myself agreeing with Carl Jung's theory that characters reflect the many aspects of the human mind. This relationship between the viewer/reader and the character in an inanimate medium, like a book or movie, gives the story life, and through this, the character's journey can be easily understood or experienced. I believe that this character-connection is what creates the last attraction people have for stories, in all forms.

1. Can you think of a story that does not fit into Vogler's interpretation of the 12 stages and storytelling?
2. What do you think of the idea that from the Hero's point of view, members of the opposite sex appear to be "Shapeshifters"? How is this relevant to the "Reward" stage of storytelling?
3. Could you describe experiences in your life with out using the 12 stages? Are there some stages that pertain only to fictional experiences?

My Fairy Tale Persona

When I first watched Alice in Wonderland, I was absolutely mesmerized by the strange characters and imaginative encounters that Alice had throughout the fairy tale. She was a young girl who had a wonderful imagination and was able to escape reality with in it. When I was a girl I often lived in my imagination for days, using my background as the setting for an adventure that would lead me to magical fairies in the garden or a secret treasure. Alice also acts much older for her age. She is able to handle herself, most of the time, in the strangest of situations, whether it is chatting with the caterpillar or finding her way out of the rabbit hole. I believe this is a heroic attribute. My parents also said that I was very mature for my age. I believe my curiosity had something to do with it. I always wanted to understand what was going on in my surroundings and struck up conversations with people wherever I was, like in the grocery store sitting in my mom's cart or in line at an amusement park. This curiosity is present in Alice's personality, too. She is also resourceful, which is a quality I like to believe I posses. What also attracts me to Alice is the characters she meets and talks with, such as the caterpillar and mad hatter. She doesn't pass judgement, rather she accepts everyone and excuses herself from situations that make her feel uncomfortable without being rude. I love meeting and talking to quirky people, who are completely different than me. They also have the most interesting thoughts and experiences to share. I'd love to spend a day in Wonderland.