Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for English

Princess Flavia: Character Analysis from The Prisoner of Zenda

Introduction to Princess Flavia

Princess Flavia, a creation of Anthony Hope in his classic novel The Prisoner of Zenda, stands out as the most beautiful, sweet, charming, attractive, and lovable character. Her grace is so profound that when she speaks, it seems as if roses are blooming around her.

Appearance and Virtues

Princess Flavia is a young, bewitching, and decent lady, possessing a multitude of virtues. Her admirable attributes and sound character earn her immense love and admiration from the people of Ruritania. They hold her in great respect and honor, expressing much pleasure at the public announcement of her engagement to King Rudolf Elphberg. She is, at her core, a noble... Continue reading "Princess Flavia: Virtues and Impact in The Prisoner of Zenda" »

Mastering English Passive Voice

The passive voice emphasizes the action or the recipient of the action rather than the performer. Its general structure is: Object + Passive Verb + (by + Agent).

Passive Verb Tenses

• Present Simple: AM (not) / ARE (not) / IS (not) + past participle
• Past Simple: WAS (not) / WERE (not) + past participle
• Future 'Will': WILL (not) BE + past participle
• Future 'Going To': AM (not) GOING TO BE / ARE (not) GOING TO BE / IS (not) GOING TO BE + past participle
• Present Continuous: AM (not) BEING / ARE (not) BEING / IS (not) BEING + past participle
• Past Continuous: WAS (not) BEING / WERE (not) BEING + past participle
• Present Perfect: HAVE (not) BEEN / HAS (not) BEEN + past participle
• Past Perfect: HAD (not) BEEN + past participle
• Modal

Catching Up Over Lunch

Miriam: Hi Claudia, how are you? I haven't seen you in a long time.

Claudia: I know! I’m fine, and you?

Miriam: I am fine, but I have a lot of work and I'm taking care of the children—it's non-stop!

Claudia: Oh yes, I can imagine. How’s little Nerea?

Miriam: She is so big now. Look how time flies. (She shows her a photo.)

Claudia: She is beautiful.

Arrival and Ordering Drinks

David: Welcome to New York Burger. My name is David, and I'll be your waiter. How many people are there?

Claudia: Table for two, please.

David: All right, come with me this way. (They sit at a table.)

Miriam: Thank you very much.

David: (He leaves the menu card on the table.) Do you want something to drink while you decide what you want to eat?

Claudia:

The Playa Club

The “Playa Club” is a restaurant located in a small city between two beaches and near a promenade. It is the favorite place of people who surf and like Rock music. It is also near the City Centre.

As you enter the place, the first thing you see is the sea. The decoration is modern, mixed with musical instruments. Sitting at any table, you have a wonderful view of the kitchen, where you can see the chefs at work. For those who do not reserve a table and are waiting, there is a cozy lounge with armchairs and pictures of people surfing. The restaurant has a quiet and pleasant atmosphere.

The menu offers a variety of delicious entrées. I had octopus with potatoes, while my friend had the grilled calamari. They were exquisite. The... Continue reading "The Playa Club: A Culinary Haven by the Sea" »

Chapter 10: The Substance of the Shadow

Mr. Lorry and Jerry Cruncher

Mr. Jarvis Lorry is appalled to discover Jerry Cruncher's illegal side hustle as a body snatcher. He threatens to report Jerry upon their return to England. Jerry defends himself, citing their long working relationship and the hypocrisy of potentially accusing him while medical doctors who bank at Tellson's might be doing similar things. Jerry proposes that his son take over his position at Tellson's, allowing him to become a gravedigger and make amends. Lorry softens slightly, demanding to see Jerry's repentance "in action—not in words."

Sydney Carton's Farewell

Sydney Carton emerges after speaking with Barsad and bids the spy farewell. He informs Lorry that he has secured... Continue reading "A Tale of Two Cities: Book 3, Chapter 10 Summary" »

Tattoos: History and Cultural Significance

The discovery of mummies with tattoos is thought to be evidence that the Polynesians began adorning their bodies after World War II. Tattoos have been used to reduce laughter, show bravery, and communicate about oneself.

How Are Tattoos Created?

A falling rock hit him while skiing up in the mountains.

Who Inspired the “Game of Thrones” Creator?

George R. R. Martin has always maintained that "Game of Thrones," a best-seller, was inspired by historical events.

I wish I was on a desert island right now.

Mary suggested going to the cinema on Tuesday.

When do you have to wear a uniform?

La Tomatina: A Unique Spanish Festival

La Tomatina is a popular festival that succeeds globally, attracting people who enjoy... Continue reading "Tattoo History, Cyberbullying, Tourism, and More" »

Conditional Sentences

Zero - Permanent actions

If (Pr. S), (Pr. S)

If we heat water to 100C, it boils.

1rst - Probable actions

(Will + V) if (Pr S.)

We'll go boating if it doesn't rain

2nd - Unlikely or imaginary actions

(If + Past. S), (Would + V)

If I won the lotto, I would buy a house

3rd - Impossible actions

(Would have + Participle) if (Past Perfect)

You would have met Kevin if you had come to the cinema with us

Reported Speech

DIRECT SPEECH                                                 INDIRECT SPEECH

PR. SIMPLE                                                         PS. SIMPLE

He said, "I want to watch a film"         He said that he wanted to watch a film

PR. CONTINUOUS                

Architectural Splendor: Describing an 18th-Century Palace Interior

The scene depicts a magnificent, enclosed space, defined by four imposing walls and a soaring roof—likely the central hall of a grand palace. The focal point is an immense, high staircase that dramatically splits into two separate paths.

18th-Century Grandeur and Design

The architecture of this staircase, supported by massive pillars, strongly suggests an 18th-century design. Ascending to the second floor provides access to the palace's various rooms.

Detailed Decorations and Features

• Second Floor Walls: The walls and pillars on the upper level are richly decorated with paintings and drawings, illustrating historical narratives of the era.
• Ceiling Feature: The roof culminates in

Working Abroad: Advantages and Disadvantages

(Thursday, May 6, 2015)

I would like to work abroad because I think it is a very interesting experience. There are many advantages and disadvantages related to working in another country.

Key Advantages of International Work

The advantages of working internationally are numerous. They include:

• Experiencing new cultures.
• Learning new languages.
• Gaining valuable professional experience.
• Visiting other countries and cities previously unknown to us.
• Learning about local customs, such as the use of public transport or bicycles.
• Observing different opinions on everyday things, such as the recycling of plastic, glass, or organic waste.

These points would certainly extend and enrich our knowledge.

Challenges and Disadvantages

However,... Continue reading "Global Career Aspirations and the Perfect Family Getaway" »