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

A Deep Dive into the Plot and Immersion

"Vestido de Novia" by Pierre Lemaitre is a thrilling psychological mystery novel that immediately draws the reader in. The story revolves around Sophie, a young woman found wandering the streets, disoriented and in shock, with no memory of the night before. As the plot unfolds, the dark secrets of her past and the truth about what happened to her slowly come to light, immersing the reader in a web of suspense and unexpected twists. Lemaitre masterfully plays with time and perspective, making the reader question everything they think they know.

Strengths: What Made This Book Unforgettable

What I loved most about this book was how it constantly made me question what was real and what wasn’t. The narrative... Continue reading "Vestido de Novia Review: Pierre Lemaitre's Psychological Thriller" »

Characteristics: Persuasive Genre

Direct appeal to the audience to buy the product, using indirect strategies like metaphor, humor, and language play to engage the audience.

Advertising as a Multisemiotic Genre: Stages of an Advertisement

1. Lead

Locus of attention, typically an image that draws the reader's attention.

2. Display

The product or service advertised.

Explicit

The image shows the product.

Implicit

The image shows a different entity or idea.

3. Emblem

The brand name or logo.

4. Announcement

The most salient text, usually the slogan or catchy phrase conveying the main message.

5. Enhancer

Longer text with a description of product properties, typically persuasive.

6. Call and Visit Information

Contact details such as address, phone number, or website.... Continue reading "Advertising as a Multisemiotic Genre: Strategies and Features" »

The Influence of Orientalism on 17th-Century European Art and Design

Understanding Orientalism

Orientalism refers to Western attitudes and representations of Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, often characterized by a romanticized and exoticized view. This portrayal emphasized the mysterious and luxurious aspects of Eastern cultures while simplifying and stereotyping their societies. Such representations were prevalent in Western art, literature, and fashion, reflecting Western fantasies more than the actual cultures.

European Trade and Cultural Exchange with Asia

European connections to Asia and the Middle East during the 17th century were facilitated by trade routes like the Silk Road and new maritime routes pioneered by explorers such as Vasco

Hello, I'm Jaime, a Product Designer.

Today, I want to share my portfolio with you, showcasing a range of projects that blend innovation with purpose.

My Creative Inspirations

My design philosophy is deeply influenced by artists who push boundaries. For instance, what I admire about the Campana Brothers is their ability to blend tradition with innovation. Their creative use of materials makes their work truly unique and impressive.

First Project: Accessibility Focus

Accessible Mobility Aid: The Ergonomic Walker

Accessibility is a cornerstone of thoughtful design. This walker was specifically created to assist elderly people with walking and resting. It features an integrated seat for comfort when tired, and its lightweight yet safe construction ensures... Continue reading "Jaime's Product Design Portfolio: Innovation, Sustainability & Impact" »

Architecture

Quattrocento Architecture (15th Century)

Architecture in the Quattrocento sought harmonious spaces based on mathematical and geometrical principles.

Key architects of this period were:

• Brunelleschi, who designed the dome of Florence Cathedral.
• Alberti, who wrote several influential books on architecture.

Cinquecento Architecture (16th Century)

The most significant architectural works were built in Rome, largely due to papal patronage. Buildings became more monumental and strictly adhered to classical architectural orders.

• Bramante designed the most important building of the century: St. Peter's Basilica, and also the Tempietto of San Pietro in Montorio, both located in the Vatican.

Painting

Quattrocento Painting (15th Century)

Painters refined... Continue reading "Renaissance Art & Architecture: 15th & 16th C." »

This Girl Can (Sport England, 2015) Campaign Analysis

Media Language

• Bright colors and dynamic movement create energy and realism. — Barthes (Semiotics): Sweat signifies effort; the body signifies confidence.
• Sport and activism genre blend is inspirational. — Neale (Genre): Combines fitness genre with social change to refresh norms.

Representation

• Real women with visible sweat portray proud, strong bodies. — Hall (Representation): Resists passive female stereotypes, creating a new identity.
• No sexualization; focus is on effort. — Mulvey (Male Gaze): Rejects objectification by showing women as active agents.

Industry

• Government-funded campaign, not for profit. — Curran & Seaton (Power & Media): Uses media to empower, not to profit.

Review of Art Spiegelman's Maus

Maus by Art Spiegelman is a groundbreaking graphic novel that tells the true story of Vladek Spiegelman, a Jewish survivor of the Holocaust, as narrated by his son, Art. Combining historical events with personal struggles, the novel explores trauma, memory, and the complexities of father-son relationships.

One of the most striking aspects of Maus is its artistic style. Spiegelman represents different groups using animals—Jews as mice, Nazis as cats—which serves as a powerful metaphor for oppression and survival. The black-and-white illustrations enhance the raw and emotional tone of the story, making it even more impactful.

The novel alternates between past and present, depicting both Vladek’s survival and... Continue reading "Art Spiegelman's Maus: A Holocaust Narrative" »

Film Vocabulary

Key Terms

• Director
• Stuntman/woman
• Stunt
• Film star
• Script
• Star in a film
• Special effects
• Producer
• Plot
• Soundtrack
• Win an award
• Release a film
• Film a scene
• Screen

Grammar: Future Tenses

• Future Simple: will + base verb (e.g., Most films will probably be 3D.)
• Future with going to: is/are going to + base verb (e.g., James Cameron is going to release 3D versions of some old films.)

Vocabulary: Action Verbs

• Suggest
• Develop
• Equip
• Predict
• Advertise
• Educate
• Enjoy
• Possess
• Argue
• Decorate
• Connect
• Excite
• Inform
• Compete

Grammar: First Conditional

If + present simple, will + base verb (e.g., If I win, they will let me go to film school.)

Social Etiquette

Vocabulary: Social Interactions

• Bring a present
• Be late
• Click your fingers
• Interrupt a conversation
• Jump a queue
• Tell jokes
• Arrive