Professor Vivian Bearing vs John Donne in the Play Wit by Margaret Edso

Is it possible to misunderstand something, yet still be guided toward its claims? Is it possible for something that ultimately has the greatest impact on your life to be unnoticed until the last possible moment? In most cases, a true revelation does not present itself until later in a person’s life. In the play Wit, by Margaret Edson, the character of Professor Vivian Bearing reaches a profound realization concerning one of the great impacts in her own life. Vivian, self-proclaimed intellectual and widely-feared professor, essentially devotes her life to the works of John Donne, a renowned metaphysical poet. She tirelessly prides herself on her exceptional skills and experience with analyzing Donne’s works, even in the midst of being diagnosed and treated for ovarian cancer. During her stay in the hospital, Vivian unwillingly sees that her lifetime analysis in Donne’s writings has only scratched the surface in comparison to the truth that she discovers in the last hours of her life. For the first time, she is able to personally relate to the speaker in the sonnets that she was supposedly so familiar with. In poetic terms, â€Å"wit† means the development of a metaphysical conceit. It is an insightful use of analogy, metaphor or inventive joining of dissimilar images to make a point in a poem. In these regards, this play has been appropriately titled. John Donne, whose Holy Sonnets make numerous appearances in the play, uses his metaphysical poetry to spark unrest, debate, and controversy. He himself wrestles with questions about faith, God’s mercy and judgment, human mortality, sin, damnation, absolution, and salvation. The Holy Sonnets are the product of doubter, one who has not yet found inner peace. This realization i... ...s a moment when she starts to see the true meaning but doesn’t want to accept it at first, which is evident from the groaning and â€Å"hiding.† However, at the end of the play and the end of her life, Vivian is ready to accept this truth that she herself is living out the same life as the speakers in Donne’s poems and begins â€Å"reaching for the light –â€Å" (Edson 66). Works Cited Donne, John. â€Å"Holy Sonnet 5, Holy Sonnet 6, Holy Sonnet 10.† John Donne’s Poetry: A Norton Critical Edition.†¨Ed. Donald R. Dickson. W.W. Norton & Company. New York, London. 2004. (Handout) Donne, John. â€Å"Hymn to God, my God, in My Sickness.† Poems of John Donne. vol I. E. K. Chambers, ed. London: Lawrence & Bullen, 1896. 211-212. Edson, Margaret. Wit. MCC Theater: New York City, NY, 1999 Gardner, Helen, ed. The Metaphysical Poets. London: Penguin, 1985.

Cultural Event Paper

A cultural event that I have attended in the past that has had a memorable affect on my life was a Native American Powwow. This event takes place every year, Thanksgiving weekend in Tucson, AZ. I arrived in the late afternoon, as the sun was going down. I remember seeing many different types of people, from tourists to the different Native American performers. The physical setting of this particular celebration was outside, and based around, one main circle. Drums were beating so loud, you could feel the pound inside your chest. Different activities were going on all around, such as dancers, vendors, and a huge variety of foods to choose from. The circular dancing arena is known as the arbor, this area is blessed before any of the events begin (Schultz, 2001). This area is considered to be sacred ground, and is respected throughout the entire celebration (Schultz, 2001). The arbor was made of tree limbs and leaves. The four main entries into the festivities were used to resemble the four points of a compass (Schultz, 2001). The dancers entered from the east entrance, and the main announcer was located by the West entrance. Many spectators were sitting on blankets, and some on lawn chairs. The environment was relaxed, and a very friendly atmosphere. The activities included dance and drum contests, different ceremonies, and many different vendors. The crafts were all handmade and amazing. Each piece looked as if it were specially made from the heart. The Native American culture to me felt festive, warm, and very inviting. The dancer’s come from many different tribes. Their faces were painted, and their costumes consisted of beautiful festive colors. They were made of feathers, sequence, dye, and other natural fabrics. A powwow is a Native American gathering, or celebration that began with the Plains tribe, and continued to other Native American tribes through the years (Schultz, 2001). A powwow is also the oldest known public ritual of the Native Americans (Schultz, 2001). This culture considers this particular festivity, a celebration of the circle of life. They include much of their culture in their dance, music, art, food, and drumming, especially while performing these rituals (Schultz, 2001). In the past powwows took place around seasonal changes. This changed as non-natives began to join in celebrating these Native American customs (Schultz, 2001). Native American powwows earliest record dates back to July 4th, 1900 in a Missoula, MT newspaper (Schultz, 2001). Native Americans hold a type of esoteric concept that comes from their philosophy of preserving their environment as well as their kinship that ties them together (Access Genealogy, 2009). They not only have social ties, they are politically and religiously organized through their rituals, government, and other institutions (Access Genealogy, 2009). They work together to reside in a territorial area, and speak a common language (Access Genealogy, 2009). They are not characterized by any one certain structure (Access Genealogy, 2009). However, the society agrees on fundamental principles that bond together a certain social fabric (Access Genealogy, 2009). Different Native American tribes throughout the years have had different ideas, opinions, philosophies, which are not always predetermined by their past ancestors. The roots and customs of Native American tribes run deep. A feeling of respect and tradition is in the air. Every little detail has meaning and a certain level of pride and of importance to each individual taking part in the ceremony. According to Access Genealogy, 2009, â€Å"Humanities are studies of the human condition, whether it is the study of art, sociology, anthropology, literature, history, or any other human endeavor. † Humanities are the core of humanism, and are the product and creativeness of each individual society. Each culture’s has its own form of expression; in this case, it was the powwow. This was a way to entertain and promote awareness to the Native American culture. They are not afraid to show who they are, like other cultures, which can be more refined in the way they celebrate. Native Americans choose to embrace their heritage, and make it a part of their everyday lives. They are trying to hold on to a special place from their past, and not let it slip away. America is known as the â€Å"Melting Pot† with many different cultures, I believe that celebration is a way for each culture to hold onto their identity, and gain respect in a world that is constantly changing.

Mythology And The Creation Of Fire - 2081 Words

Mythology has played a huge impact in the development of society in the world. However not only is it effecting just society but the individuals living on Earth. The myths and legends of the gods and goddesses spread throughout the world, allowing citizens to believe in the values and morals of the story. Mythology has influenced not only the world previous to ours but present time today. Just like years before mythology has influence our scientific inventions and knowledge, daily life, religion, and weather. Myths that influence these topics revolve greatly around humanity. For example Prometheus and the creation of fire, humans, and curiosity and the story of Odysseus and how he values family over everything and is determined to travel back home to his family. As one can there are many differences and similarities between countries, however myths about the gods and goddesses were huge impacts on humans and the reasoning for events. Ancient Greek was a famous time period, which was called Archaic Period (800-500 BCE). Ancient Greek had a special quality to it that made their cultural background different from other time periods. In this time period the Greek civilization developed their arts, philosophy, and politics. Their single-city state was ruled by democratic rule of Republics instead of a Monarchy ruled government. Also during this time period, scientific ideas and inventions were created. Creator’s such as Socrates, Homer, Euclid, Aristophanes, and many more madeShow MoreRelatedPrometheus, in Greek mythology and literature, is known widely and most obviously for his many700 Words   |  3 PagesPrometheus, in Greek mythology and literature, is known widely and most obviously for his many enthralling elements. Though there is a wide array of dissimilar stories told of Prometheus, the most dominant and popular one is told by Hesiod in his Theogony. From Hesiod’s account, Prometheus was the g reat Titan who defied the Greek gods and stole fire from Hephaestus for the use and helping of mankind. This act facilitated the progression for civilization. Ultimately, there are three main points forRead MoreThe Importance of World Mythology1045 Words   |  5 PagesHumanities 2143: Mythology 24 October 2010 The Importance of World Mythology Everyone has seen on television or read in newspapers about how schools are changing their curriculum to tailor more towards helping students pass standardized tests. With this emphasis shift, teachers are less likely to educate students about mythology, let alone mythologies from other cultures. Students are missing out on a great opportunity to learn about diversity in cultures. Not only can English teachers useRead MoreThe Myth Of The Universe1565 Words   |  7 Pagestold of how the world began, these stories are known as creation stories or creation myths. Creation myths can give those reading them a better understanding of the values within the culture that they were created. The myth of creation explains the origin of the universe, describing how the world and its animate and inanimate entities were created (El-Asward, Garry, El-Shamy, 2005, p.24-31). A major similarity in each of the different creation stories is the idea of water as the elemental source ofRead MoreChin ese and Greek Mythology1564 Words   |  7 PagesThe Diverging Commonalities of Creation Myth’s Long ago, people wanted to acquire a better understanding of the beginning of the universe which ultimately resulted in the establishment of religions, beliefs and most pertinent, creation myths. Mythology provides explanations for the worlds mysteries especially in regards to the creation of Earth, Humans and the environment. This comparative paragraph analyzes the similarities and differences between a Greek myth entitled, The Beginning of ThingsRead MoreEssay about Prometheus1431 Words   |  6 PagesPrometheus   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Prometheus, the Titan of Greek mythology, was considered to be the most important Titan ever in all the myths. He helped the human race tremendously in his efforts to sustain an easier lifestyle. Mankind had great respect for him because of his advantages and gifts or abilities he gave them. Also, his battle against Zeus as a result of his love for man was very much appreciated. Prometheus was one of the most interesting Greek mythology figures in his time. He was a very kind, lovingRead MoreThemes Of Art : Religion / Mythology And Worship1271 Words   |  6 Pagesthe most popular reoccurring themes in art is Religion/Mythology and worship. For thousands of years, humans have used art as a tool to showcase their beliefs to the world. From an idol that can be filled with blood and used as a sacrifice to a god, to a ceiling painted with events telling the story of the Bible, humans have used art to recognize the religious beliefs they hold so dearly. Sometimes, an artist would use a religion or mythology they didn’t practice solely as the subject of their workRead MoreMary Shelleys Frankenstein Essay examples786 Words   |  4 PagesFrankenstein. The character of Frankenstein contains traits that parallel Prometheus from Greek mythology. Through his actions and emotions Victor Frankenstein becomes the modern Prometheus by producing ill-fated actions that carry tragic consequences just as Prometheus’ did. Prometheus was a figure in Greek mythology who created the conflict between mankind and the God’s. Prometheus one day decided to steal fire from the sun and give it to the people for their advantage. Mankind then had the ability toRead MoreMary Shelley s Frankenstein And The Modern Prometheus912 Words   |  4 Pageslearn and master technology and science while maintaining an uninhabitable relationship with it (271). The cryptic title of the novel alludes to the classical Greek mythology of Prometheus, a Titan who was eventually punished by Zeus made man out of clay and gave them fire for survival. The novel thereby alludes to the Ancient mythology by giving the readers a sense of consequence resulting from seeking enlightenment and the ability to create life like God. By portraying two contrasting scientists’Read MoreNorse Mythology : Norse Myth Essay1711 Words   |  7 PagesWhen you hear the words ‘Norse Mythology’, you typically begin to think about what you learned from the movies and comics produced by Marvel. The story you know revolves around Thor: The handsome and all-wise, powerful God of Thunder, who takes on his evil blood-brother Loki. You ve also probably heard of Thor’s magical flying hammer, and the rainbow bridge that allows the gods to cross over to different realms. However, Norse mythology goes way deeper than just tales of a superhero conquering allRead MoreGreek Mythology : The Creation1373 Words   |  6 PagesGreek Mythology - The Creation: In the beginning of time there was nothing but darkness and chaos but then miraculously a being emerged from the empty void called Erebus and night. All was dark, empty and silent until love was born bringing order with it, light was born along with Gaea, the earth from love. Gaea alone gave birth to Uranus, the sky, and he became her husband surrounding her on all sides. Together they created twelve Titans, three cyclops s and three Hecatonchires (hundred-handed