Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Arts and Humanities

Understanding Realism in Literature

The novel is distinguished by its formal realism: it is stocked with people and places that seem real or evoke the real world.

The Role of Unrealistic Elements

Parody and satire are often unrealistic, but they can cause us to see our everyday world very differently. Sometimes, that which distorts what the real world is like may actually lead us to see it more accurately.

Key Perspectives on Realism

• Georg Lukács: He argued that the classic realistic novel of the 19th century was the pinnacle of the novel's artistic achievement, and a decline took place from that point on.
• Bertolt Brecht: The German dramatist believed we must not derive realism from particular existing works. For him, realism is not a question of

Understanding Aestheticism: Origins and Core Message

The term "Aestheticism" derives from the Greek word aisthesis, meaning "perception through the senses." This focus on sensory experience was also central to Romantic culture. Indeed, the movement has its roots in Romanticism, but it also signifies a distinct turn. Now, the artist, or more specifically the aesthete, must not only feel sensations but actively live them in their own life. The core message of Aestheticism is often summarized as "Living for beauty!"

The Aesthete and the Poète Maudit: Rebels Against Society

The figure of the aesthete presents some correspondences with the French figure of the "poète maudit" (cursed poet), who rejects all societal values and conventions. The poète... Continue reading "Aestheticism: Art for Art's Sake, Rebellion, and Dandyism" »

English Realism: Key Authors and Periods

The Brontë Sisters

• Women writers who challenged conventions.
• Critique of "silly novels" and reversal of traditional female roles.
• Exploration of psychological and emotional depths in women.
• Themes of extreme passions and violence.
• Narratives often depict a journey from poverty to wealth.
• Focus on love, mystery, and intense passion.
• Deep exploration of inner nature and individual responsibility.
• Emphasis on generosity and moral fortitude.

Notable Works by the Brontës:

• Charlotte Brontë: Jane Eyre
• Emily Brontë: Wuthering Heights
• Anne Brontë: The Tenant of Wildfell Hall

Emily and Anne Brontë: Shared Characteristics

• Powerful emotional force in their narratives.
• Complex narrative structures: often moving from harmony

The Theatre of the Absurd: Characteristics and Influences

The Theatre of the Absurd is characterized by an essential absence of a consistent plot. Little happens in these plays, and what does occur often makes no sense whatsoever. There is a notable lack of progress and resolution. Furthermore, these plays typically feature minimal characterization, offering no real description of the characters.

Innovative Styles and Comic Elements

Absurdist Theatre is also composed of an innovative combination of previous styles. A significant comic side is present in these plays, with much of their inspiration coming from silent film and comedy. Characters often resemble Charlie Chaplin in their clownish behavior. Depending on the production, the play might... Continue reading "Understanding Absurdist Theatre and Animal Farm's Allegory" »

Understanding Sequenced Images and Comic Storytelling

A sequenced image, often a still image, is fundamental to visual narratives like comics. It's a powerful tool for conveying meaning and emotion.

Key Elements and Formal Resources in Comics

Comic art utilizes a combination of specific elements and formal resources to create compelling stories:

• Elements: Vignette, Camera Shots, Angles of View, Speech Bubbles, Caption
• Formal Resources: Motion Lines, Onomatopoeia, Visual Metaphors, Body and Face Expression

Formal Resources Explained

Motion Lines

Different kinds of lines are used to generate the illusion of movement and emphasize the story's meaning, guiding the reader's eye and conveying action.

Onomatopoeia

Real sounds are imitated through the use of... Continue reading "Mastering Visual Storytelling: Comic Elements & Techniques" »

My Future Starts Now

What do you think your future self will thank you for?

Good morning, I’m here today to tell you about how your choices affect your future and have a big impact on the rest of your life.

Our future is decided by the everyday choices we make or choose not to make. If you don’t want to decide yourself, you let someone else decide for you or you just don’t make the decision, [ZW3] but you don’t know what would have happened if you had made the decision yourself or if you had made a different decision. In books, movies, and TV shows, people say that you can’t change the future, but just by making different choices, your future might look way different.

The Importance of Choices

are very important, we all make at least... Continue reading "The Impact of Choices on Your Future" »

Major Realist Theories in International Relations

Classical Realism

• Key Thinkers: Thucydides, Machiavelli, Morgenthau, E.H. Carr.
• Objectivity: Weak.
• Core Concepts: Anarchy, proto-scientific knowledge. IR viewed as a zero-sum game focused on power distribution.
• Dynamics: Security dilemma and relative rather than absolute gain. States are seen as arrogant and benign.
• Focus: National Interest and power distribution.
• Intervening Variables: Ethics, values, and domestic politics.
• Theory Type: Explanatory, predictive (limited normative).
• Outcomes/Interests: Hegemony, balance of power, bandwagoning. Survival, security, power. Mixed outcomes likely for war; history tends to repeat itself.
• Examples: Peloponnesian War, Peace of Westphalia, Concert of Europe.

Structural

Common Professions and Occupations

• Accountant (Contable): A person whose job is to keep or inspect financial accounts.
• Architect (Arquitecto): A person who designs buildings.
• Astronomer (Astrónomo): A person who studies the moon, planets, stars, and the universe.
• Bricklayer (Albañil): A person trained or skilled in laying bricks.
• Butcher (Carnicero): One who kills animals and prepares the meat for food.
• Carpenter (Carpintero): A person who practices carpentry.
• Designer (Diseñador/a): A person whose job is to plan the form or structure of something.
• Dustman / Refuse Collector (Basurero): A person whose job is to collect domestic refuse.
• Engineer (Ingeniero/a): A person who designs, builds, or maintains engines, machines, or public works.
• Factory Worker